Synaptotagmin V and IX isoforms control Ca2+ -dependent insulin exocytosis

Endocrine islet β-cell subtypes with differential function are derived from biochemically distinct embryonic endocrine islet progenitors that are regulated by maternal nutrients

Endocrine islet b cells comprise heterogenous cell subsets. Yet when/how these subsets are produced and how stable they are remain unknown. Addressing these questions is important for preventing/curing diabetes, because lower numbers of b cells with better secretory function is a high risk of this disease. Using combinatorial cell lineage tracing, scRNA-seq, and DNA methylation analysis, we show here that embryonic islet progenitors with distinct gene expression and DNA methylation produce b-cell subtypes of different function and viability in adult mice. The subtype with better function is enriched for genes involved in vesicular production/trafficking, stress response, and Ca2+-secretion coupling, which further correspond to differential DNA methylation in putative enhancers of these genes. Maternal overnutrition, a major diabetes risk factor, reduces the proportion of endocrine progenitors of the b-cell subtype with better-function via deregulating DNA methyl transferase 3a. Intriguingly, the gene signature that defines mouse b-cell subtypes can reliably divide human cells into two sub-populations while the proportion of b cells with better-function is reduced in diabetic donors. The implication of these results is that modulating DNA methylation in islet progenitors using maternal food supplements can be explored to improve b-cell function in the prevention and therapy of diabetes.

Genetic ablation of synaptotagmin-9 alters tomosyn-1 function to increase insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells improving glucose clearance

Stimulus-coupled insulin secretion from the pancreatic islet β-cells involves the fusion of insulin granules to the plasma membrane (PM) via SNARE complex formation-a cellular process key for maintaining whole-body glucose homeostasis. Less is known about the role of endogenous inhibitors of SNARE complexes in insulin secretion. We show that an insulin granule protein synaptotagmin-9 (Syt9) deletion in mice increased glucose clearance and plasma insulin levels without affecting insulin action compared to the control mice. Upon glucose stimulation, increased biphasic and static insulin secretion were observed from ex vivo islets due to Syt9 loss. Syt9 colocalizes and binds with tomosyn-1 and the PM syntaxin-1A (Stx1A); Stx1A is required for forming SNARE complexes. Syt9 knockdown reduced tomosyn-1 protein abundance via proteasomal degradation and binding of tomosyn-1 to Stx1A. Furthermore, Stx1A-SNARE complex formation was increased, implicating Syt9-tomosyn-1-Stx1A complex is inhibitory in insulin secretion. Rescuing tomosyn-1 blocked the Syt9-knockdown-mediated increases in insulin secretion. This shows that the inhibitory effects of Syt9 on insulin secretion are mediated by tomosyn-1. We report a molecular mechanism by which β-cells modulate their secretory capacity rendering insulin granules nonfusogenic by forming the Syt9-tomosyn-1-Stx1A complex. Altogether, Syt9 loss in β-cells decreases tomosyn-1 protein abundance, increasing the formation of Stx1A-SNARE complexes, insulin secretion, and glucose clearance. These outcomes differ from the previously published work that identified Syt9 has either a positive or no effect of Syt9 on insulin secretion. Future work using β-cell-specific deletion of Syt9 mice is key for establishing the role of Syt9 in insulin secretion.

Rab26 restricts insulin secretion via sequestering Synaptotagmin-1

Rab26 is known to regulate multiple membrane trafficking events, but its role in insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells remains unclear despite it was first identified in the pancreas. In this study, we generated Rab26-/- mice through CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Surprisingly, insulin levels in the blood of the Rab26-/- mice do not decrease upon glucose stimulation but conversely increase. Deficiency of Rab26 promotes insulin secretion, which was independently verified by Rab26 knockdown in pancreatic insulinoma cells. Conversely, overexpression of Rab26 suppresses insulin secretion in both insulinoma cell lines and isolated mouse islets. Islets overexpressing Rab26, upon transplantation, also failed to restore glucose homeostasis in type 1 diabetic mice. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that overexpression of Rab26 results in clustering of insulin granules. GST-pulldown experiments reveal that Rab26 interacts with synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) through directly binding to its C2A domain, which interfering with the interaction between Syt1 and SNAP25, and consequently inhibiting the exocytosis of newcomer insulin granules revealed by TIRF microscopy. Our results suggest that Rab26 serves as a negative regulator of insulin secretion, via suppressing insulin granule fusion with plasma membrane through sequestering Syt1.

Expression Silencing of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 8 Interacting Protein-1 Conferred Its Role in Pancreatic β-Cell Physiology and Insulin Secretion

Mitogen-activated protein kinase 8 interacting protein-1 (MAPK8IP1) gene has been recognized as a susceptibility gene for diabetes. However, its action in the physiology of pancreatic β-cells is not fully understood. Herein, bioinformatics and genetic analyses on the publicly available database were performed to map the expression of the MAPK8IP1 gene in human pancreatic islets and to explore whether this gene contains any genetic variants associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Moreover, a series of functional experiments were executed in a rat insulinoma cell line (INS-1 832/13) to investigate the role of the Mapk8ip1 gene in β-cell function. Metabolic engineering using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data confirmed higher expression levels of MAPK8IP1 in human islets compared to other metabolic tissues. Additionally, comparable expression of MAPK8IP1 expression was detected in sorted human endocrine cells. However, β-cells exhibited higher expression of MAPK8IP1 than ductal and PSC cells. Notably, MAPK8IP1 expression was reduced in diabetic islets, and the expression was positively correlated with insulin and the β-cell transcription factor PDX1 and MAFA. Using the TIGER portal, we found that one genetic variant, "rs7115753," in the proximity of MAPK8IP1, passes the genome-wide significance for the association with T2D. Expression silencing of Mapk8ip1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) in INS-1 cells reduced insulin secretion, glucose uptake rate, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In contrast, insulin content, cell viability, and apoptosis without cytokines were unaffected. However, silencing of Mapk8ip1 reduced cytokines-induced apoptosis and downregulated the expression of several pancreatic β-cell functional markers including, Ins1, Ins2, Pdx1, MafA, Glut2, Gck, Insr, Vamp2, Syt5, and Cacna1a at mRNA and/or protein levels. Finally, we reported that siRNA silencing of Pdx1 resulted in the downregulation of MAPK8IP1 expression in INS-1 cells. In conclusion, our findings confirmed that MAPK8IP1 is an important component of pancreatic β-cell physiology and insulin secretion.

Secretory granule exocytosis and its amplification by cAMP in pancreatic β-cells

The sequence of events for secreting insulin in response to glucose in pancreatic β-cells is termed "stimulus-secretion coupling". The core of stimulus-secretion coupling is a process which generates electrical activity in response to glucose uptake and causes Ca²⁺ oscillation for triggering exocytosis of insulin-containing secretory granules. Prior to exocytosis, the secretory granules are mobilized and docked to the plasma membrane and primed for fusion with the plasma membrane. Together with the final fusion with the plasma membrane, these steps are named the exocytosis process of insulin secretion. The steps involved in the exocytosis process are crucial for insulin release from β-cells and considered indispensable for glucose homeostasis. We recently confirmed a signature of defective exocytosis process in human islets and β-cells of obese donors with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Furthermore, cyclic AMP (cAMP) potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion through mechanisms including accelerating the exocytosis process. In this mini-review, we aimed to organize essential knowledge of the secretory granule exocytosis and its amplification by cAMP. Then, we suggest the fatty acid translocase CD36 as a predisposition in β-cells for causing defective exocytosis, which is considered a pathogenesis of T2D in relation to obesity. Finally, we propose potential therapeutics of the defective exocytosis based on a CD36-neutralizing antibody and on Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I), for improving β-cell function in T2D.

Beta-Cell Adaptation to Pregnancy - Role of Calcium Dynamics

During pregnancy, the mother develops insulin resistance to shunt nutrients to the growing fetus. As a result, the maternal islets of Langerhans undergo several changes to increase insulin secretion in order to maintain glucose homeostasis and prevent the development of gestational diabetes. These changes include an increase in β-cell proliferation and β-cell mass, upregulation of insulin synthesis and insulin content, enhanced cell-to-cell communication, and a lowering of the glucose threshold for insulin secretion, all of which resulting in an increase in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Emerging data suggests that a change in intracellular calcium dynamics occurs in the β-cell during pregnancy as part of the adaptive process. Influx of calcium into β-cells is crucial in the regulation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Calcium fluxes into and out of the cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria are also important in controlling β-cell function and survival. Here, we review calcium dynamics in islets in response to pregnancy-induced changes in hormones and signaling molecules, and how these changes may enhance insulin secretion to stave off gestational diabetes.

Neuromodulator release in neurons requires two functionally redundant calcium sensors

Neuropeptides and neurotrophic factors secreted from dense core vesicles (DCVs) control many brain functions, but the calcium sensors that trigger their secretion remain unknown. Here, we show that in mouse hippocampal neurons, DCV fusion is strongly and equally reduced in synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1)- or Syt7-deficient neurons, but combined Syt1/Syt7 deficiency did not reduce fusion further. Cross-rescue, expression of Syt1 in Syt7-deficient neurons, or vice versa, completely restored fusion. Hence, both sensors are rate limiting, operating in a single pathway. Overexpression of either sensor in wild-type neurons confirmed this and increased fusion. Syt1 traveled with DCVs and was present on fusing DCVs, but Syt7 supported fusion largely from other locations. Finally, the duration of single DCV fusion events was reduced in Syt1-deficient but not Syt7-deficient neurons. In conclusion, two functionally redundant calcium sensors drive neuromodulator secretion in an expression-dependent manner. In addition, Syt1 has a unique role in regulating fusion pore duration.

Interactions of Antibodies to the Gram-Negative Gastric Bacterium Helicobacter pylori with the Synaptic Calcium Sensor Synaptotagmin 5, Correlate to Impaired Vesicle Recycling in SiMa Human Neuroblastoma Cells

Due to molecular mimicry, maternal antibacterial antibodies are suspected to promote neurodevelopmental changes in the offspring that finally can cause disorders like autism and schizophrenia. Using a human first trimester prenatal brain multiprotein array (MPA), we demonstrate here that antibodies to the digestive tract bacteria Helicobacter pylori (α-HPy) and Campylobacter jejuni (α-CJe) interact with different synaptic proteins, including the calcium sensor synaptotagmin 5 (Syt5). Interactions of both antisera with Syt5 were confirmed by Western blot with a HEK293-cells overexpression lysate of this protein. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting revealed SiMa cells to express Syt5, which also co-migrated with a band/spot labeled by either α-HPy or α-CJe. Functionally, a 12-h pretreatment of SiMa cells with 10 μg/ml of either α-HPy or α-CJe resulted in a significant reduction of acetylcholine(ACh)-dependent calcium signals as compared to controls. Also ACh-dependent vesicle recycling was significantly reduced in cells pretreated with either α-HPy or α-CJe. Similar effects were observed upon pretreatment of SiMa cells with Syt5-specific antibodies. In conclusion, the present study supports the view that prenatal maternal antibacterial immune responses towards HPy and by this to Syt5 are able to cause functional changes, which in the end might contribute also to neurodevelopmental disorders.

A Composite Sketch of Fast-Spiking Parvalbumin-Positive Neurons

Parvalbumin-positive neurons are inhibitory neurons that release GABA and are mostly represented by fast-spiking basket or chandelier cells. They constitute a minor neuronal population, yet their peculiar profiles allow them to react quickly to any event in the brain under normal or pathological conditions. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge about the fundamentals of fast-spiking parvalbumin-positive neurons, focusing on their morphology and specific channel/protein content. Next, we will explore their development, maturation, and migration in the brain. Finally, we will unravel their potential contribution to the physiopathology of epilepsy.

Synaptotagmin 5 regulates Ca2+-dependent Weibel-Palade body exocytosis in human endothelial cells

Elevations of intracellular free Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) are a potent trigger for Weibel-Palade body (WPB) exocytosis and secretion of von Willebrand factor (VWF) from endothelial cells; however, the identity of WPB-associated Ca²⁺-sensors involved in transducing acute increases in [Ca²⁺]_i into granule exocytosis remains unknown. Here, we show that synaptotagmin 5 (SYT5) is expressed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and is recruited to WPBs to regulate Ca²⁺-driven WPB exocytosis. Western blot analysis of HUVECs identified SYT5 protein, and exogenously expressed SYT5-mEGFP localised almost exclusively to WPBs. shRNA-mediated knockdown of endogenous SYT5 (shSYT5) reduced the rate and extent of histamine-evoked WPB exocytosis and reduced secretion of the WPB cargo VWF-propeptide (VWFpp). The shSYT5-mediated reduction in histamine-evoked WPB exocytosis was prevented by expression of shRNA-resistant SYT5-mCherry. Overexpression of SYT5-EGFP increased the rate and extent of histamine-evoked WPB exocytosis, and increased secretion of VWFpp. Expression of a Ca²⁺-binding defective SYT5 mutant (SYT5-Asp197Ser-EGFP) mimicked depletion of endogenous SYT5. We identify SYT5 as a WPB-associated Ca²⁺ sensor regulating Ca²⁺-dependent secretion of stored mediators from vascular endothelial cells.

Dietary Flavonoids in the Prevention of T2D: An Overview

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a progressive metabolic disease that is increasing in prevalence globally. It is well established that insulin resistance (IR) and a progressive decline in functional β-cell mass are hallmarks of developing T2D. Obesity is a leading pathogenic factor for developing IR. Constant IR will progress to T2D when β-cells are unable to secret adequate amounts of insulin to compensate for decreased insulin sensitivity. Recently, a considerable amount of research has been devoted to identifying naturally occurring anti-diabetic compounds that are abundant in certain types of foods. Flavonoids are a group of polyphenols that have drawn great interest for their various health benefits. Results from many clinical and animal studies demonstrate that dietary intake of flavonoids might be helpful in preventing T2D, although cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these effects are still not completely understood. This review discusses our current understanding of the pathophysiology of T2D and highlights the potential anti-diabetic effects of flavonoids and mechanisms of their actions.

Pancreatic β-Cell Electrical Activity and Insulin Secretion: Of Mice and Men

The pancreatic β-cell plays a key role in glucose homeostasis by secreting insulin, the only hormone capable of lowering the blood glucose concentration. Impaired insulin secretion results in the chronic hyperglycemia that characterizes type 2 diabetes (T2DM), which currently afflicts >450 million people worldwide. The healthy β-cell acts as a glucose sensor matching its output to the circulating glucose concentration. It does so via metabolically induced changes in electrical activity, which culminate in an increase in the cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration and initiation of Ca2+-dependent exocytosis of insulin-containing secretory granules. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the β-cell transcriptome, electrical activity, and insulin exocytosis. We highlight salient differences between mouse and human β-cells, provide models of how the different ion channels contribute to their electrical activity and insulin secretion, and conclude by discussing how these processes become perturbed in T2DM.

Fusion pore in exocytosis: More than an exit gate? A β-cell perspective

Secretory vesicle exocytosis is a fundamental biological event and the process by which hormones (like insulin) are released into the blood. Considerable progress has been made in understanding this precisely orchestrated sequence of events from secretory vesicle docked at the cell membrane, hemifusion, to the opening of a membrane fusion pore. The exact biophysical and physiological regulation of these events implies a close interaction between membrane proteins and lipids in a confined space and constrained geometry to ensure appropriate delivery of cargo. We consider some of the still open questions such as the nature of the initiation of the fusion pore, the structure and the role of the Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive-factor Attachment protein REceptor (SNARE) transmembrane domains and their influence on the dynamics and regulation of exocytosis. We discuss how the membrane composition and protein-lipid interactions influence the likelihood of the nascent fusion pore forming. We relate these factors to the hypothesis that fusion pore expansion could be affected in type-2 diabetes via changes in disease-related gene transcription and alterations in the circulating lipid profile. Detailed characterisation of the dynamics of the fusion pore in vitro will contribute to understanding the larger issue of insulin secretory defects in diabetes.

BAIAP3, a C2 domain-containing Munc13 protein, controls the fate of dense-core vesicles in neuroendocrine cells

Zhang et al. conducted a siRNA screen of C2 domain proteins involved in regulated peptide secretion. One of the hits, a Munc13 family member BAIAP3, was characterized as endosome localized involved in post-exocytic dense-core vesicle protein recycling to the TGN. BAIAP3 knockdown inhibited dense-core vesicle maturation/stability in neuroendocrine/endocrine cells.

Dense-core vesicle (DCV) exocytosis is a SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide–sensitive fusion attachment protein receptor)-dependent anterograde trafficking pathway that requires multiple proteins for regulation. Several C2 domain–containing proteins are known to regulate Ca²⁺-dependent DCV exocytosis in neuroendocrine cells. In this study, we identified others by screening all (∼139) human C2 domain–containing proteins by RNA interference in neuroendocrine cells. 40 genes were identified, including several encoding proteins with known roles (CAPS [calcium-dependent activator protein for secretion 1], Munc13-2, RIM1, and SYT10) and many with unknown roles. One of the latter, BAIAP3, is a secretory cell–specific Munc13-4 paralog of unknown function. BAIAP3 knockdown caused accumulation of fusion-incompetent DCVs in BON neuroendocrine cells and lysosomal degradation (crinophagy) of insulin-containing DCVs in INS-1 β cells. BAIAP3 localized to endosomes was required for Golgi trans-Golgi network 46 (TGN46) recycling, exhibited Ca²⁺-stimulated interactions with TGN SNAREs, and underwent Ca²⁺-stimulated TGN recruitment. Thus, unlike other Munc13 proteins, BAIAP3 functions indirectly in DCV exocytosis by affecting DCV maturation through its role in DCV protein recycling. Ca²⁺ rises that stimulate DCV exocytosis may stimulate BAIAP3-dependent retrograde trafficking to maintain DCV protein homeostasis and DCV function.

Structural analysis of Ca2+-binding pocket of synaptotagmin 5 C2A domain

Synaptotagmins constitute a family of multifunctional integral membrane proteins found predominantly on vesicles in neural and endocrine tissues. 17 isoforms of synaptotagmin family in mammals have been identified, 7 isoforms among them are known to be able to bind Ca²⁺ via their C2 domains. This study presents the crystal structure of the first C2 domain (C2A domain) of synaptotagmin 5 complexed with Ca²⁺ at 1.90Å resolution. Comparison of the Ca²⁺-binding pocket of synaptotagmin 5 C2A domain with other synaptotagmin C2 domains demonstrated that a serine residue locating at Ca²⁺-binding loop probably responsible to the conformational variation of Ca²⁺-binding pocket, and thus impacts the Ca²⁺-binding mechanism of C2 domain, which is verified by structural analysis of the serine mutant and Ca²⁺-binding assays via isothermal titration calorimetry. Alteration of Ca²⁺-binding mechanism might be correlated with different Ca²⁺ response rates of synaptotagmins, which is the basis of the functions of synaptotagmins in regulating various types of Ca²⁺-triggered vesicle-membrane fusion processes.

Pancreatic regulation of glucose homeostasis

In order to ensure normal body function, the human body is dependent on a tight control of its blood glucose levels. This is accomplished by a highly sophisticated network of various hormones and neuropeptides released mainly from the brain, pancreas, liver, intestine as well as adipose and muscle tissue. Within this network, the pancreas represents a key player by secreting the blood sugar-lowering hormone insulin and its opponent glucagon. However, disturbances in the interplay of the hormones and peptides involved may lead to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) whose prevalence, comorbidities and medical costs take on a dramatic scale. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to uncover and understand the mechanisms underlying the various interactions to improve existing anti-diabetic therapies and drugs on the one hand and to develop new therapeutic approaches on the other. This review summarizes the interplay of the pancreas with various other organs and tissues that maintain glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, anti-diabetic drugs and their impact on signaling pathways underlying the network will be discussed.

Identification of Candidate Gene Variants in Korean MODY Families by Whole-Exome Sequencing

AIMS

To date, 13 genes causing maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) have been identified. However, there is a big discrepancy in the genetic locus between Asian and Caucasian patients with MODY. Thus, we conducted whole-exome sequencing in Korean MODY families to identify causative gene variants.

METHODS

Six MODY probands and their family members were included. Variants in the dbSNP135 and TIARA databases for Koreans and the variants with minor allele frequencies >0.5% of the 1000 Genomes database were excluded. We selected only the functional variants (gain of stop codon, frameshifts and nonsynonymous single-nucleotide variants) and conducted a case-control comparison in the family members. The selected variants were scanned for the previously introduced gene set implicated in glucose metabolism.

RESULTS

Three variants c.620C>T:p.Thr207Ile in PTPRD, c.559C>G:p.Gln187Glu in SYT9, and c.1526T>G:p.Val509Gly in WFS1 were respectively identified in 3 families. We could not find any disease-causative alleles of known MODY 1-13 genes. Based on the predictive program, Thr207Ile in PTPRD was considered pathogenic.

CONCLUSIONS

Whole-exome sequencing is a valuable method for the genetic diagnosis of MODY. Further evaluation is necessary about the role of PTPRD, SYT9 and WFS1 in normal insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.

Arabidopsis Synaptotagmin 2 Participates in Pollen Germination and Tube Growth and Is Delivered to Plasma Membrane via Conventional Secretion

Arabidopsis synaptotagmin 2 (SYT2) has been reported to participate in an unconventional secretory pathway in somatic cells. Our results showed that SYT2 was expressed mainly in the pollen of Arabidopsis thaliana. The pollen of syt2 T-DNA and RNA interference mutant lines exhibited reduced total germination and impeded pollen tube growth. Analysis of the expression of SYT2-GFP fusion protein in the pollen tube indicates that SYT2 was localized to distinct, patchy compartments but could co-localize with the Golgi markers, BODIPY TR C5 ceramide and GmMan1-mCherry. However, SYT2-DsRed-E5 was localized to the plasma membrane in Arabidopsis suspension cells, in addition to the Golgi apparatus. The localization of SYT2 at the plasma membrane was further supported by immunofluorescence staining in pollen tubes. Moreover, brefeldin A treatment inhibited the transport of SYT2 to the plasma membrane and caused SYT2 to aggregate and form enlarged compartments. Truncation of the SYT2-C2AB domains also resulted in retention of SYT2 in the Golgi apparatus. An in vitro phospholipid-binding assay showed that SYT2-C2AB domains bind to the phospholipid membrane in a calcium-dependent manner. Take together, our results indicated that SYT2 was required for pollen germination and pollen tube growth, and was involved in conventional exocytosis.

Feedback inhibition of CREB signaling promotes beta cell dysfunction in insulin resistance

Although persistent elevations in circulating glucose concentrations promote compensatory increases in pancreatic islet mass, unremitting insulin resistance causes deterioration in beta cell function that leads to the progression to diabetes. Here, we show that mice with a knockout of the CREB coactivator CRTC2 in beta cells have impaired oral glucose tolerance due to decreases in circulating insulin concentrations. CRTC2 was found to promote beta cell function in part by stimulating the expression of the transcription factor MafA. Chronic hyperglycemia disrupted cAMP signaling in pancreatic islets by activating the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF1)-dependent induction of the protein kinase A inhibitor beta (PKIB), a potent inhibitor of PKA catalytic activity. Indeed, disruption of the PKIB gene improved islet function in the setting of obesity. These results demonstrate how crosstalk between nutrient and hormonal pathways contributes to loss of pancreatic islet function.

Distribution Profile of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor/Ca2+ Channels in α and β Cells of Pancreas: Dominant Localization in Secretory Granules and Common Error in Identification of Secretory Granule Membranes

OBJECTIVES

The α and β cells of pancreatic islet release important hormones in response to intracellular Ca increases that result from Ca releases through the inositol 1,4,5-trisphoshate receptor (IP3R)/Ca channels. Yet no systematic studies on distribution of IP3R/Ca channels have been done, prompting us to investigate the distribution of all 3 IP3R isoforms.

METHODS

Immunogold electron microscopy was performed to determine the presence and the relative concentrations of all 3 IP3R isoforms in 2 major organelles secretory granules (SGs) and the endoplasmic reticulum of α and β cells of rat pancreas.

RESULTS

All 3 IP3R isoforms were present in SG membranes of both cells, and the IP3R concentrations in SGs were ∼2-fold higher than those in the endoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, large halos shown in the electron microscope images of insulin-containing SGs of β cells were gap spaces that resulted from separation of granule membranes from the surrounding cytoplasm.

CONCLUSIONS

These results strongly suggest the important roles of SGs in IP3-induced, Ca-dependent regulatory secretory pathway in pancreas. Moreover, the accurate location of SG membranes of β cells was further confirmed by the location of another integral membrane protein synaptotagmin V and of membrane phospholipid PI(4,5)P2.

Synaptotagmin 11 interacts with components of the RNA-induced silencing complex RISC in clonal pancreatic β-cells

Synaptotagmins are two C2 domain-containing transmembrane proteins. The function of calcium-sensitive members in the regulation of post-Golgi traffic has been well established whereas little is known about the calcium-insensitive isoforms constituting half of the protein family. Novel binding partners of synaptotagmin 11 were identified in β-cells. A number of them had been assigned previously to ER/Golgi derived-vesicles or linked to RNA synthesis, translation and processing. Whereas the C2A domain interacted with the Q-SNARE Vti1a, the C2B domain of syt11 interacted with the SND1, Ago2 and FMRP, components of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Binding to SND was direct via its N-terminal tandem repeats. Our data indicate that syt11 may provide a link between gene regulation by microRNAs and membrane traffic.

The beneficial effects of ranolazine on cardiac function after myocardial infarction are greater in diabetic than in nondiabetic rats

Ranolazine (RAN) is known to exert both anti-ischemic and antidiabetic actions. Thus, this study has explored the hypothesis that RAN would have greater effect on the recovery of cardiac function in diabetic mellitus (DM) rat hearts following myocardial infarction (MI). Myocardial infarction was induced in nondiabetic (MI, n = 14) and diabetic (streptozotocin induced; DM-MI, n = 13) Wistar rats by permanent ligation of the left coronary artery. Cardiac function was evaluated using echocardiography (left ventricular ejection fraction %) and in isolated heart preparations by measuring left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), and the positive and negative first derivative of LVDP (± dp/dt). Ranolazine (20 mg/kg, ip once a day) was administered 24 hours after surgical procedure for 4 weeks to nondiabetic (MI + RAN, n = 17) and diabetic rats (DM-MI + RAN, n = 15). The RAN improved the recovery of function in both the nondiabetic and the diabetic postinfarcted hearts but this effect was greater and achieved statistical significance only in the diabetic group. The RAN resulted in increased levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR, a component of Akt signaling) in both nondiabetic and diabetic infarcted hearts without changes in the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs; p38 MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase). In addition, in diabetic hearts, RAN resulted in a significant increase in the ratio of sarcoplasmic Ca(2+)-ATPase/phospholamban (a target of Akt signaling, 2.0-fold increase) and increased levels of phosphorylated calcium-regulated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK; 2.0-fold increase). In diabetic animals, RAN increased insulin and lowered glucose levels in serum. In conclusion, the beneficial effect of RAN on the recovery of cardiac function after MI was greater in DM rats. This response was associated with activation of Akt/mTOR and AMPK. These findings provide a plausible explanation for the results of the Type 2 Diabetes Evaluation of Ranolazine in Subjects With Chronic Stable Angina (TERISA) trial, which showed a greater antianginal effect of RAN in patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes.

The functional significance of synaptotagmin diversity in neuroendocrine secretion

Synaptotagmins (syts) are abundant, evolutionarily conserved integral membrane proteins that play essential roles in regulated exocytosis in nervous and endocrine systems. There are at least 17 syt isoforms in mammals, all with tandem C-terminal C2 domains with highly variable capacities for Ca(2+) binding. Many syts play roles in neurotransmitter release or hormone secretion or both, and a growing body of work supports a role for some syts as Ca(2+) sensors of exocytosis. Work in many types of endocrine cells has documented the presence of a number of syt isoforms on dense-core vesicles containing various hormones. Syts can influence the kinetics of exocytotic fusion pores and the choice of release mode between kiss-and-run and full-fusion. Vesicles harboring different syt isoforms can preferentially undergo distinct modes of exocytosis with different forms of stimulation. The diverse properties of syt isoforms enable these proteins to shape Ca(2+) sensing in endocrine cells, thus contributing to the regulation of hormone release and the organization of complex endocrine functions.

Reduced insulin secretion correlates with decreased expression of exocytotic genes in pancreatic islets from patients with type 2 diabetes

Reduced insulin release has been linked to defect exocytosis in β-cells. However, whether expression of genes suggested to be involved in the exocytotic process (exocytotic genes) is altered in pancreatic islets from patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and correlate to insulin secretion, needs to be further investigated. Analysing expression levels of 23 exocytotic genes using microarray revealed reduced expression of five genes in human T2D islets (χ(2)=13.25; p<0.001). Gene expression of STX1A, SYT4, SYT7, SYT11, SYT13, SNAP25 and STXBP1 correlated negatively to in vivo measurements of HbA1c levels and positively to glucose stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in vitro in human islets. STX1A, SYT4 and SYT11 protein levels correspondingly decreased in human T2D islets. Moreover, silencing of SYT4 and SYT13 reduced GSIS in INS1-832/13 cells. Our data support that reduced expression of exocytotic genes contributes to impaired insulin secretion, and suggest decreased expression of these genes as part of T2D pathogenesis.

Multiple roles for the actin cytoskeleton during regulated exocytosis

Regulated exocytosis is the main mechanism utilized by specialized secretory cells to deliver molecules to the cell surface by virtue of membranous containers (i.e., secretory vesicles). The process involves a series of highly coordinated and sequential steps, which include the biogenesis of the vesicles, their delivery to the cell periphery, their fusion with the plasma membrane, and the release of their content into the extracellular space. Each of these steps is regulated by the actin cytoskeleton. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the involvement of actin and its associated molecules during each of the exocytic steps in vertebrates, and suggest that the overall role of the actin cytoskeleton during regulated exocytosis is linked to the architecture and the physiology of the secretory cells under examination. Specifically, in neurons, neuroendocrine, endocrine, and hematopoietic cells, which contain small secretory vesicles that undergo rapid exocytosis (on the order of milliseconds), the actin cytoskeleton plays a role in pre-fusion events, where it acts primarily as a functional barrier and facilitates docking. In exocrine and other secretory cells, which contain large secretory vesicles that undergo slow exocytosis (seconds to minutes), the actin cytoskeleton plays a role in post-fusion events, where it regulates the dynamics of the fusion pore, facilitates the integration of the vesicles into the plasma membrane, provides structural support, and promotes the expulsion of large cargo molecules.

Cell signalling in insulin secretion: the molecular targets of ATP, cAMP and sulfonylurea

Clarification of the molecular mechanisms of insulin secretion is crucial for understanding the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of diabetes and for development of novel therapeutic strategies for the disease. Insulin secretion is regulated by various intracellular signals generated by nutrients and hormonal and neural inputs. In addition, a variety of glucose-lowering drugs including sulfonylureas, glinide-derivatives, and incretin-related drugs such as dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are used for glycaemic control by targeting beta cell signalling for improved insulin secretion. There has been a remarkable increase in our understanding of the basis of beta cell signalling over the past two decades following the application of molecular biology, gene technology, electrophysiology and bioimaging to beta cell research. This review discusses cell signalling in insulin secretion, focusing on the molecular targets of ATP, cAMP and sulfonylurea, an essential metabolic signal in glucose-induced insulin secretion (GIIS), a critical signal in the potentiation of GIIS, and the commonly used glucose-lowering drug, respectively.

Small molecule kaempferol modulates PDX-1 protein expression and subsequently promotes pancreatic β-cell survival and function via CREB

Chronic hyperlipidemia causes β-cell apoptosis and dysfunction, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Thus, searching for agents to promote pancreatic β-cell survival and improve its function could be a promising strategy to prevent and treat T2D. We investigated the effects of kaempferol, a small molecule isolated from ginkgo biloba, on apoptosis and function of β-cells and further determined the mechanism underlying its actions. Kaempferol treatment promoted viability, inhibited apoptosis and reduced caspase-3 activity in INS-1E cells and human islets chronically exposed to palmitate. In addition, kaempferol prevented the lipotoxicity-induced down-regulation of antiapoptotic proteins Akt and Bcl-2. The cytoprotective effects of kaempferol were associated with improved insulin secretion, synthesis, and pancreatic and duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX-1) expression. Chronic hyperlipidemia significantly diminished cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production, protein kinase A (PKA) activation, cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation and its regulated transcriptional activity in β-cells, all of which were restored by kaempferol treatment. Disruption of CREB expression by transfection of CREB siRNA in INS-1E cells or adenoviral transfer of dominant-negative forms of CREB in human islets ablated kaempferol protection of β-cell apoptosis and dysfunction caused by palmitate. Incubation of INS-1E cells or human islets with kaempferol for 48h induced PDX-1 expression. This effect of kaempferol on PDX-1 expression was not shared by a host of structurally related flavonoid compounds. PDX-1 gene knockdown reduced kaempferol-stimulated cAMP generation and CREB activation in INS-1E cells. These findings demonstrate that kaempferol is a novel survivor factor for pancreatic β-cells via up-regulating the PDX-1/cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling cascade.

Calcium sensing in exocytosis

Neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and hormones are released through regulated exocytosis of synaptic vesicles and large dense core vesicles. This complex and highly regulated process is orchestrated by SNAREs and their associated proteins. The triggering signal for regulated exocytosis is usually an increase in intracellular calcium levels. Besides the triggering role, calcium signaling modulates the precise amount and kinetics of vesicle release. Thus, it is a central question to understand the molecular machineries responsible for calcium sensing in exocytosis. Here we provide an overview of our current understanding of calcium sensing in neurotransmitter release and hormone secretion.

Cloning, expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction crystallographic study of human synaptotagmin 5 C2A domain

Synaptotagmin acts as the Ca(2+) sensor for neural and endocrine exocytosis. Synaptotagmin 5 has been demonstrated to play a key role in the acquisition of cathepsin D and the vesicular proton ATPase and in Ca(2+)-dependent insulin exocytosis. The C2 domains modulate the interaction of synaptotagmin with the phospholipid bilayer of the presynaptic terminus and effector proteins such as the SNARE complex. This study reports the cloning, expression in Escherichia coli, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of the C2A domain of human synaptotagmin 5 with an N-terminal His(6) tag. The crystals diffracted to 1.90 Å resolution and belonged to the hexagonal space group P6(5), with unit-cell parameters a = b = 93.97, c = 28.05 Å. A preliminary model of the protein structure has been built and refinement of the model is ongoing.

Flavonol kaempferol improves chronic hyperglycemia-impaired pancreatic beta-cell viability and insulin secretory function

Considerable evidence shows that chronic hyperglycemia can cause pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, which contributes to progressive deterioration of glucose homeostasis and overt diabetes. In the present study, we found that kaempferol, a flavonol compound present in various Chinese medicinal herbs, has cytoprotective effects on cultured clonal beta-cells and pancreatic human islets. Kaempferol treatment dose-dependently promoted viability, inhibited cellular apoptosis, and reduced caspase-3 activity in beta-cells and human islets exposed to chronic high glucose, with 10 μM kaempferol exerting the maximum effect. In addition, kaempferol treatment improved the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins Akt and Bcl-2 that was significantly reduced in beta-cells and human islets chronically exposed to hyperglycemia. Furthermore, exposure of beta-cells and human islets to kaempferol restored high glucose-attenuated intracellular cAMP and ATP production. Inhibition of protein kinase A or Akt activation ablated the anti-apoptotic effect of kaempferol. These cytoprotective effects of kaempferol were associated with improved insulin secretory function and synthesis in beta-cells and human islets. These findings provide evidence that kaempferol may be a naturally occurring anti-diabetic compound by protecting pancreatic beta-cell survival and function in a hostile environment that would otherwise lead to type 2 diabetes.

SUMOylation regulates insulin exocytosis downstream of secretory granule docking in rodents and humans

OBJECTIVE

The reversible attachment of small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) proteins controls target localization and function. We examined an acute role for the SUMOylation pathway in downstream events mediating insulin secretion.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied islets and β-cells from mice and human donors, as well as INS-1 832/13 cells. Insulin secretion, intracellular Ca(2+), and β-cell exocytosis were monitored after manipulation of the SUMOylation machinery. Granule localization was imaged by total internal reflection fluorescence and electron microscopy; immunoprecipitation and Western blotting were used to examine the soluble NSF attachment receptor (SNARE) complex formation and SUMO1 interaction with synaptotagmin VII.

RESULTS

SUMO1 impairs glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by blunting the β-cell exocytotic response to Ca(2+). The effect of SUMO1 to impair insulin secretion and β-cell exocytosis is rapid and does not require altered gene expression or insulin content, is downstream of granule docking at the plasma membrane, and is dependent on SUMO-conjugation because the deSUMOylating enzyme, sentrin/SUMO-specific protease (SENP)-1, rescues exocytosis. SUMO1 coimmunoprecipitates with the Ca(2+) sensor synaptotagmin VII, and this is transiently lost upon glucose stimulation. SENP1 overexpression also disrupts the association of SUMO1 with synaptotagmin VII and mimics the effect of glucose to enhance exocytosis. Conversely, SENP1 knockdown impairs exocytosis at stimulatory glucose levels and blunts glucose-dependent insulin secretion from mouse and human islets.

CONCLUSIONS

SUMOylation acutely regulates insulin secretion by the direct and reversible inhibition of β-cell exocytosis in response to intracellular Ca(2+) elevation. The SUMO protease, SENP1, is required for glucose-dependent insulin secretion.

Class II phosphoinositide 3-kinase regulates exocytosis of insulin granules in pancreatic beta cells

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are critical regulators of pancreatic β cell mass and survival, whereas their involvement in insulin secretion is more controversial. Furthermore, of the different PI3Ks, the class II isoforms were detected in β cells, although their role is still not well understood. Here we show that down-regulation of the class II PI3K isoform PI3K-C2α specifically impairs insulin granule exocytosis in rat insulinoma cells without affecting insulin content, the number of insulin granules at the plasma membrane, or the expression levels of key proteins involved in insulin secretion. Proteolysis of synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa, a process involved in insulin granule exocytosis, is impaired in cells lacking PI3K-C2α. Finally, our data suggest that the mRNA for PI3K-C2α may be down-regulated in islets of Langerhans from type 2 diabetic compared with non-diabetic individuals. Our results reveal a critical role for PI3K-C2α in β cells and suggest that down-regulation of PI3K-C2α may be a feature of type 2 diabetes.

Differential distribution of synaptotagmin-1, -4, -7, and -9 in rat adrenal chromaffin cells

Neurons and certain kinds of endocrine cells, such as adrenal chromaffin cells, have large dense-core vesicles (LDCVs) and synaptic vesicles or synaptic-like microvesicles (SLMVs). These secretory vesicles exhibit differences in Ca(2+) sensitivity and contain diverse signaling substances. The present work was undertaken to identify the synaptotagmin (Syt) isoforms present in secretory vesicles. Fractionation analysis of lysates of the bovine adrenal medulla and immunocytochemistry in rat chromaffin cells indicated that Syt 1 was localized in LDCVs and SLMVs, whereas Syt 7 was the predominant isoform present in LDCVs. In contrast to PC12 cells and the pancreatic β cell line INS-1, Syt 9 was not immunodetected in LDCVs in rat chromaffin cells. Double-staining revealed that Syt 9-like immunoreactivity was nearly identical with fluorescent thapsigargin binding, suggesting the presence of Syt 9 in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).The exogenous expression of Syt 1-GFP in INS-1 cells, which had a negligible level of endogenous Syt 1, resulted in an increase in the amount of Syt 9 in the ER, suggesting that Syt 9 competes with Syt 1 for trafficking from the ER to the Golgi complex. We conclude that LDCVs mainly contain Syt 7, whereas SLMVs contain Syt 1, but not Syt 7, in rat and bovine chromaffin cells.

Ranolazine increases β-cell survival and improves glucose homeostasis in low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetes in mice

In addition to its anti-ischemic and antianginal effects, ranolazine has been shown to lower hemoglobin A(1c) (HbA(1c)) in patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes. The present study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that ranolazine lowers HbA(1c) because of improved glucose homeostasis in an animal model. Diabetes in mice was induced by giving multiple low doses of streptozotocin. Ranolazine was given twice daily via an oral gavage (20 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. Fasting plasma glucose levels were significantly lower in the ranolazine-treated group (187 ± 19 mg/dl) compared with the vehicle group (273 ± 23 mg/dl) at 8 weeks. HbA(1c) was 5.8 ± 0.4% in the vehicle group and 4.5 ± 0.2% in the ranolazine-treated group (p < 0.05). Glucose disposal during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin tolerance test were not different between the two groups; however, during OGTT, peak insulin levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in ranolazine-treated mice. Mice treated with ranolazine had healthier islet morphology and significantly (p < 0.01) higher β-cell mass (69 ± 2% per islet) than the vehicle group (50 ± 5% per islet) as determined from hematoxylin and eosin staining. The number of apoptotic cells was significantly (p < 0.05) less in the pancreas of the ranolazine-treated group (14 ± 2% per islet) compared with the vehicle group (24 ± 4% per islet). In addition, ranolazine increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in rat and human islets in a glucose-dependent manner. These data suggest that ranolazine may be a novel antidiabetic agent that causes β-cell preservation and enhances insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner in diabetic mice.

Palmitoylation-dependent association with CD63 targets the Ca2+ sensor synaptotagmin VII to lysosomes

Posttranslational lipid modifications promote association of Syt VII with the tetraspanin CD63, determining its exit from the Golgi and targeting to lysosomes.

Syt VII is a Ca²⁺ sensor that regulates lysosome exocytosis and plasma membrane repair. Because it lacks motifs that mediate lysosomal targeting, it is unclear how Syt VII traffics to these organelles. In this paper, we show that mutations or inhibitors that abolish palmitoylation disrupt Syt VII targeting to lysosomes, causing its retention in the Golgi complex. In macrophages, Syt VII is translocated simultaneously with the lysosomal tetraspanin CD63 from tubular lysosomes to nascent phagosomes in a Ca²⁺-dependent process that facilitates particle uptake. Mutations in Syt VII palmitoylation sites block trafficking of Syt VII, but not CD63, to lysosomes and phagosomes, whereas tyrosine replacement in the lysosomal targeting motif of CD63 causes both proteins to accumulate on the plasma membrane. Complexes of CD63 and Syt VII are detected only when Syt VII palmitoylation sites are intact. These findings identify palmitoylation-dependent association with the tetraspanin CD63 as the mechanism by which Syt VII is targeted to lysosomes.

Protein trafficking in immune cells

The majority of cells of the immune system are specialized secretory cells, whose function depends on regulated exocytosis. The latter is mediated by vesicular transport involving the sorting of specialized cargo into the secretory granules (SGs), thereby generating the transport vesicles; their transport along the microtubules and eventually their signal-dependent fusion with the plasma membrane. Each of these steps is tightly controlled by mechanisms, which involve the participation of specific sorting signals on the cargo proteins and their recognition by cognate adaptor proteins, posttranslational modifications of the cargo proteins and multiple GTPases and SNARE proteins. In some of the cells (i.e. mast cells, T killer cells) an intimate connection exists between the secretory system and the endocytic one, whereby the SGs are lysosome related organelles (LROs) also referred to as secretory lysosomes. Herein, we discuss these mechanisms in health and disease states.

Arabidopsis synaptotagmin SYT1, a type I signal-anchor protein, requires tandem C2 domains for delivery to the plasma membrane

The correct localization of integral membrane proteins to subcellular compartments is important for their functions. Synaptotagmin contains a single transmembrane domain that functions as a type I signal-anchor sequence in its N terminus and two calcium-binding domains (C(2)A and C(2)B) in its C terminus. Here, we demonstrate that the localization of an Arabidopsis synaptotagmin homolog, SYT1, to the plasma membrane (PM) is modulated by tandem C2 domains. An analysis of the roots of a transformant-expressing green fluorescent protein-tagged SYT1 driven by native SYT1 promoter suggested that SYT1 is synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum, and then delivered to the PM via the exocytotic pathway. We transiently expressed a series of truncated proteins in protoplasts, and determined that tandem C(2)A-C(2)B domains were necessary for the localization of SYT1 to the PM. The PM localization of SYT1 was greatly reduced following mutation of the calcium-binding motifs of the C(2)B domain, based on sequence comparisons with other homologs, such as endomembrane-localized SYT5. The localization of SYT1 to the PM may have been required for the functional divergence that occurred in the molecular evolution of plant synaptotagmins.

The Leishmania donovani lipophosphoglycan excludes the vesicular proton-ATPase from phagosomes by impairing the recruitment of synaptotagmin V

We recently showed that the exocytosis regulator Synaptotagmin (Syt) V is recruited to the nascent phagosome and remains associated throughout the maturation process. In this study, we investigated the possibility that Syt V plays a role in regulating interactions between the phagosome and the endocytic organelles. Silencing of Syt V by RNA interference revealed that Syt V contributes to phagolysosome biogenesis by regulating the acquisition of cathepsin D and the vesicular proton-ATPase. In contrast, recruitment of cathepsin B, the early endosomal marker EEA1 and the lysosomal marker LAMP1 to phagosomes was normal in the absence of Syt V. As Leishmania donovani promastigotes inhibit phagosome maturation, we investigated their potential impact on the phagosomal association of Syt V. This inhibition of phagolysosome biogenesis is mediated by the virulence glycolipid lipophosphoglycan, a polymer of the repeating Galbeta1,4Manalpha1-PO(4) units attached to the promastigote surface via an unusual glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor. Our results showed that insertion of lipophosphoglycan into ganglioside GM1-containing microdomains excluded or caused dissociation of Syt V from phagosome membranes. As a consequence, L. donovani promatigotes established infection in a phagosome from which the vesicular proton-ATPase was excluded and which failed to acidify. Collectively, these results reveal a novel function for Syt V in phagolysosome biogenesis and provide novel insight into the mechanism of vesicular proton-ATPase recruitment to maturing phagosomes. We also provide novel findings into the mechanism of Leishmania pathogenesis, whereby targeting of Syt V is part of the strategy used by L. donovani promastigotes to prevent phagosome acidification.

Proteomics of regulated secretory organelles

Regulated secretory organelles are important subcellular structures of living cells that allow the release in the extracellular space of crucial compounds, such as hormones and neurotransmitters. Therefore, the regulation of biogenesis, trafficking, and exocytosis of regulated secretory organelles has been intensively studied during the last 30 years. However, due to the large number of different regulated secretory organelles, only a few of them have been specifically characterized. New insights into regulated secretory organelles open crucial perspectives for a better comprehension of the mechanisms that govern cell secretion. The combination of subcellular fractionation, protein separation, and mass spectrometry is also possible to study regulated secretory organelles at the proteome level. In this review, we present different strategies used to isolate regulated secretory organelles, separate their protein content, and identify the proteins by mass spectrometry. The biological significance of regulated secretory organelles-proteomic analysis is discussed as well.

Insulin granule biogenesis, trafficking and exocytosis

It is becoming increasingly apparent that beta cell dysfunction resulting in abnormal insulin secretion is the essential element in the progression of patients from a state of impaired glucose tolerance to frank type 2 diabetes (Del Prato, 2003; Del Prato and Tiengo, 2001). Although extensive studies have examined the molecular, cellular and physiologic mechanisms of insulin granule biogenesis, sorting, and exocytosis the precise mechanisms controlling these processes and their dysregulation in the developed of diabetes remains an area of important investigation. We now know that insulin biogenesis initiates with the synthesis of preproinsulin in rough endoplastic reticulum and conversion of preproinsulin to proinsulin. Proinsulin begins to be packaged in the Trans-Golgi Network and is sorting into immature secretory granules. These immature granules become acidic via ATP-dependent proton pump and proinsulin undergoes proteolytic cleavage resulting the formation of insulin and C-peptide. During the granule maturation process, insulin is crystallized with zinc and calcium in the form of dense-core granules and unwanted cargo and membrane proteins undergo selective retrograde trafficking to either the constitutive trafficking pathway for secretion or to degradative pathways. The newly formed mature dense-core insulin granules populate two different intracellular pools, the readily releasable pools (RRP) and the reserved pool. These two distinct populations are thought to be responsible for the biphasic nature of insulin release in which the RRP granules are associated with the plasma membrane and undergo an acute calcium-dependent release accounting for first phase insulin secretion. In contrast, second phase insulin secretion requires the trafficking of the reserved granule pool to the plasma membrane. The initial trigger for insulin granule fusion with the plasma membrane is a rise in intracellular calcium and in the case of glucose stimulation results from increased production of ATP, closure of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel and cellular depolarization. In turn, this opens voltage-dependent calcium channels allowing increased influx of extracellular calcium. Calcium is thought to bind to members of the fusion regulatory proteins synaptogamin that functionally repressors the fusion inhibitory protein complexin. Both complexin and synaptogamin interact as well as several other regulatory proteins interact with the core fusion machinery composed of the Q- or t-SNARE proteins syntaxin 1 and SNAP25 in the plasma membrane that assembles with the R- or v-SNARE protein VAMP2 in insulin granules. In this chapter we will review the current progress of insulin granule biogenesis, sorting, trafficking, exocytosis and signaling pathways that comprise the molecular basis of glucose-dependent insulin secretion.

Long-term exposure to genistein improves insulin secretory function of pancreatic beta-cells

We recently found that genistein, a plant-derived natural compound, is a novel cAMP signaling agonist in pancreatic beta-cells. In the present study, we further show that exposure of clonal insulin secreting (INS-1E) cells to genistein for 48 h enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS), whereas insulin content was not altered, suggesting that genistein-enhanced GSIS is not due to a modulation of insulin synthesis. This genistein effect is protein tyrosine kinase- and K(ATP) channel-independent. In addition, genistein had no effect on glucose transporter-2 expression or cellular ATP production, but similarly augmented pyruvate-stimulated insulin secretion in INS-1E cells, indicating that the improvement of insulin secretory function by long-term genistein exposure is not related to an alternation in glucose uptake or the glycolytic pathway. The enhanced insulin secretion by genistein was associated with elevated intracellular Ca(2+) concentration and dependent on protein kinase A and new protein synthesis as this effect was completely blocked by N-[2-(p-Bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide or cycloheximide. Similarly, 48 h of genistein exposure also enhanced GSIS in freshly isolated mouse and human pancreatic islets, suggesting a non-species-specific and biologically relevant effect. These findings provide evidence that genistein may be a novel bioactive compound that has an anti-diabetic effect by improving insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells.

DOC2b is a SNARE regulator of glucose-stimulated delayed insulin secretion

Insulin secretion is precisely regulated by blood glucose with unique biphasic pattern. The regulatory mechanism of the second-phase insulin release is unclear. In this study, we report that DOC2b (double C2 domain protein isoform b), a SNARE related protein, was associated with insulin vesicles and translocated to plasma membrane within several minutes upon high-glucose stimulation followed by an interaction with syntaxin4, but not syntaxin1. This binding specificity and the time course of DOC2b translocation were suitable for the regulation of second-phase insulin release. Increased DOC2b expression enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. In contrast, silencing DOC2b inhibited delayed release of insulin, without affecting rapid (approximately 7min) phase secretion. Interestingly, DOC2b had no effects on KCl-triggered insulin release. These data suggest that DOC2b may be a regulator for delayed (second-phase) insulin secretion in MIN6 cells.

Proteins associated with immunopurified granules from a model pancreatic islet beta-cell system: proteomic snapshot of an endocrine secretory granule

beta-Cell granules contain proteins involved in fuel regulation, which when altered, contribute to metabolic disorders including diabetes mellitus. We analyzed proteins present in purified granules from the INS-1E beta-cell model. Fifty-one component proteins were identified by LC-MS/MS including hormones, granins, protein processing components, cellular trafficking components, enzymes implicated in cellular metabolism and chaperone proteins. These findings may increase understanding of granule secretion and the processes leading to protein aggregation and beta-cell death in type-2 diabetes.

Rescuing the subprime meltdown in insulin exocytosis in diabetes

Neuroendocrine pancreatic islet beta-cells secrete the hormone insulin in response to glucose stimulation and adapt efficiently to increased demand by peripheral tissues to maintain glucose homeostasis. Insulin is packed within dense-core granules, which traffic and dock onto the plasma membrane whereby a Ca(2+) stimulus evokes exocytosis by soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE), complex-mediated, membrane fusion. Recent studies have unveiled postdocking steps mediated by "priming" factors that influence SNARE complex assembly to confer fusion readiness to the docked granules. This review will summarize recent insights into the priming role for Munc13 in the exocytosis of insulin granules. We present evidence for the interaction of Munc13-1 with exocytotic substrates involved in cAMP-mediated potentiation of insulin release, the latter we show to mediate enhanced granule-to-granule fusion events underlying compound exocytosis. We thus also further review the current understanding of granule-to-granule fusion. As agents acting on cAMP signaling are clinically used to augment insulin release in diabetes, this better understanding of priming steps may reveal additional novel therapeutic strategies to increase the capacity for insulin release to improve the treatment of diabetes.

Synaptotagmin 2 couples mucin granule exocytosis to Ca2+ signaling from endoplasmic reticulum

Synaptotagmin 2 (Syt2) functions as a low affinity, fast exocytic Ca(2+) sensor in neurons, where it is activated by Ca(2+) influx through voltage-gated channels. Targeted insertion of lacZ into the mouse syt2 locus reveals expression in mucin-secreting goblet cells of the airways. In these cells, rapid Ca(2+) entry from the extracellular medium does not contribute significantly to stimulated secretion (Davis, C. W., and Dickey, B. F. (2008) Annu. Rev. Physiol. 70, 487-512). Nonetheless, Syt2(-/-) mice show a severe defect in acute agonist-stimulated airway mucin secretion, and Syt2(+/-) mice show a partial defect. In contrast to Munc13-2(-/-) mice (Zhu, Y., Ehre, C., Abdullah, L. H., Sheehan, J. K., Roy, M., Evans, C. M., Dickey, B. F., and Davis, C. W. (2008) J. Physiol. (Lond.) 586, 1977-1992), Syt2(-/-) mice show no spontaneous mucin accumulation, consistent with the inhibitory action of Syt2 at resting cytoplasmic Ca(2+) in neurons. In human airway goblet cells, inositol trisphosphate receptors are found in rough endoplasmic reticulum that closely invests apical mucin granules, consistent with the known dependence of exocytic Ca(2+) signaling on intracellular stores in these cells. Hence, Syt2 can serve as an exocytic sensor for diverse Ca(2+) signaling systems, and its levels are limiting for stimulated secretory function in airway goblet cells.