Abnormal localisation and hyperclustering of (alpha)(V)(beta)(3) integrins and associated proteins in Src-deficient or tyrphostin A9-treated osteoclasts

Nanoscale architecture and coordination of actin cores within the sealing zone of human osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are unique in their capacity to degrade bone tissue. To achieve this process, osteoclasts form a specific structure called the sealing zone, which creates a close contact with bone and confines the release of protons and hydrolases for bone degradation. The sealing zone is composed of actin structures called podosomes nested in a dense actin network. The organization of these actin structures inside the sealing zone at the nano scale is still unknown. Here, we combine cutting-edge microscopy methods to reveal the nanoscale architecture and dynamics of the sealing zone formed by human osteoclasts on bone surface. Random illumination microscopy allowed the identification and live imaging of densely packed actin cores within the sealing zone. A cross-correlation analysis of the fluctuations of actin content at these cores indicates that they are locally synchronized. Further examination shows that the sealing zone is composed of groups of synchronized cores linked by α-actinin1 positive filaments, and encircled by adhesion complexes. Thus, we propose that the confinement of bone degradation mediators is achieved through the coordination of islets of actin cores and not by the global coordination of all podosomal subunits forming the sealing zone.

Sanguiin H-6, a constituent of Rubus parvifolius L., inhibits receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand-induced osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption in vitro and prevents tumor necrosis factor-α-induced osteoclast formation in vivo

BACKGROUND

Osteoclasts are multinucleated bone-resorbing cells that differentiate in response to receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL). Enhanced osteoclastogenesis contributes to bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rubus parvifolius L. is traditionally used as an herbal medicine for rheumatism; however, its detailed chemical composition and the molecular mechanisms responsible for its biological action have not been elucidated.

PURPOSE

To investigate the mechanisms by which R. parvifolius L. extract and its major constituent sanguiin H-6, inhibit osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption.

METHODS

Cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and bone resorption were detected in vitro. Inhibition of signaling pathways, marker protein expression, and protein nuclear translocation were evaluated by western blot analysis. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-mediated osteoclastogenesis was examined in vivo.

RESULTS

R. parvifolius L. extract inhibited the bone-resorption activity of osteoclasts. In addition, sanguiin H-6 markedly inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption, reduced reactive oxygen species production, and inhibited the phosphorylation of inhibitor of NF-κB alpha (IκBα) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Sanguiin H-6 also decreased the protein levels of nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic-1 (NFATc1), cathepsin K, and c-Src. Moreover, sanguiin H-6 inhibited the nuclear translocation of NFATc1, c-Fos, and NF-κB in vitro, as well as TNF-α-mediated osteoclastogenesis in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data revealed that R. parvifolius L. has anti-bone resorption activity and suggest that its constituent, sanguiin H-6, can potentially be used for the prevention and treatment of bone diseases associated with excessive osteoclast formation and subsequent bone destruction.

Role of RANKL in the regulation of NFATc1 and c‑Src mRNA expression in osteoclast‑like cells

This study was designed to determine the effects of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) on the mRNA expression of nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic, calcineurin-dependent 1 (NFATc1) and c‑Src in rat osteoclast‑like cells. The marrow cells were exposed to macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M‑CSF; 25 ng/ml) and different concentrations of RANKL (0, 50, 75 and 100 ng/ml) for 9 days. The mRNA expression of NFATc1 and c‑Src was determined by polymerase chain reaction. Compared with the M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (0 ng/ml) group, the levels of NFATc1 and c‑Src mRNA expression were significantly increased in the M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (75 and 100 ng/ml) groups (P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.01, respectively). Compared with the M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (50 ng/ml) group, the levels of NFATc1 and c‑Src mRNA expression was significantly increased in the M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (75 and 100 ng/ml) groups (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.01, respectively). Compared with M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (75 ng/ml) group, the levels of NFATc1 and c‑Src mRNA expression was significantly increased in the M‑CSF (25 ng/ml)+RANKL (100 ng/ml) group, (P<0.01 and P<0.01, respectively). These data suggest that RANKL could regulate the expression of NFATc1 and c‑Src mRNA in the marrow culture system.

Notch2 signaling promotes osteoclast resorption via activation of PYK2

Notch signaling plays a central role in various cell fate decisions, including skeletal development. Recently, Notch signaling was implicated in osteoclast differentiation and maturation, including the resorption activity of osteoclasts. However, the specific involvement of notch signaling in resorption activity was not fully investigated. Here, we investigated the roles of Notch signaling in the resorption activity of osteoclasts by use of the gamma-secretase inhibitor dibenzazepine (DBZ). Attenuating Notch signaling by DBZ suppressed the expression of NFATc1, a master transcription factor for osteoclast differentiation. However, overexpression of a constitutively active form of NFATc1 did not fully rescue the effects of DBZ. DBZ suppressed the autophosphorylation of PYK2, which is essential for the formation of the podosome belt and sealing zone, with reduced c-Src/PYK2 interaction. We found that RANKL increases PYK2 activation accompanied by increased NICD2 production in osteoclasts. Overexpression of NICD2 in osteoclasts rescued DBZ-mediated suppression of resorption activity with promotion of PYK2 autophosphorylation and microtubule acetylation. Consistent with the in vitro results, DBZ strongly suppressed bone destruction in an interleukin-1-induced bone loss model. Collectively, these results demonstrate that Notch2 in osteoclasts plays a role in the control of resorption activity via the PYK2-c-Src-microtubule signaling pathway.

Role of focal adhesion tyrosine kinases in GPVI-dependent platelet activation and reactive oxygen species formation

Background

We have previously shown the presence of a TRAF4/p47^phox/Hic5/Pyk2 complex associated with the platelet collagen receptor, GPVI, consistent with a potential role of this complex in GPVI-dependent ROS formation. In other cell systems, NOX-dependent ROS formation is facilitated by Pyk2, which along with its closely related homologue FAK are known to be activated and phosphorylated downstream of ligand binding to GPVI.

Aims

To evaluate the relative roles of Pyk2 and FAK in GPVI-dependent ROS formation and to determine their location within the GPVI signaling pathway.

Methods and Results

Human and mouse washed platelets (from WT or Pyk2 KO mice) were pre-treated with pharmacological inhibitors targeting FAK or Pyk2 (PF-228 and Tyrphostin A9, respectively) and stimulated with the GPVI-specific agonist, CRP. FAK, but not Pyk2, was found to be essential for GPVI-dependent ROS production and aggregation. Subsequent human platelet studies with PF-228 confirmed FAK is essential for GPVI-mediated phosphatidylserine exposure, α-granule secretion (P-selectin (CD62P) surface expression) and integrin α_IIbβ₃ activation. To determine the precise location of FAK within the GPVI pathway, we analyzed the effect of PF-228 inhibition in CRP-stimulated platelets in conjunction with immunoprecipitation and pulldown analysis to show that FAK is downstream of Lyn, Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), PI3-K and Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) and upstream of Rac1, PLCγ2, Ca²⁺ release, PKC, Hic-5, NOX1 and α_IIbβ₃ activation.

Conclusion

Overall, these data suggest a novel role for FAK in GPVI-dependent ROS formation and platelet activation and elucidate a proximal signaling role for FAK within the GPVI pathway.

Osteoprotegerin induces podosome disassembly in osteoclasts through calcium, ERK, and p38 MAPK signaling pathways

Osteoclasts are critical for bone resorption and use podosomes to attach to bone matrix. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a negative regulator of osteoclast function that can affect the formation and function of podosomes. However, the signaling pathways that link OPG to podosome function have not been well characterized. Therefore, this study examined the roles of intracellular calcium and MAPKs in OPG-induced podosome disassembly in osteoclasts. We assessed the effects of the intracellular calcium chelator Bapta-AM, ERK inhibitor U0126, and p38 inhibitor SB202190 on OPG-treated osteoclast differentiation, adhesion structures, intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration and the phosphorylation state of podosome associated proteins (Pyk2 and Src). Mouse monocytic RAW 264.7 cells were differentiated to osteoclasts using RANKL (30ng/mL) and M-CSF (25ng/mL). The cells were pretreated with Bapta-AM (5μM), U0126 (5μM), or SB202190 (10μM) for 30min, followed by 40ng/mL OPG for 3h. Osteoclastogenesis, adhesion structure, viability and morphology, intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration and the phosphorylation state of Pyk2 and Src were measured by TRAP staining, scanning electron microscopy, real-time cell analyzer, flow cytometry and western blotting, respectively. OPG significantly inhibited osteoclastogenesis, the formation of adhesion structures, and reduced the amount of phosphorylated Pyk2 and Src-pY527, but increased phosphorylation of Src-pY416. Bapta-AM, U0126, and SB202190 partially restored osteoclast differentiation and adhesion structures. Both Bapta-AM and U0126, but not SB202190, restored the levels of intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration, phosphorylated Pyk2 and Src-pY527. All three inhibitors blocked OPG-induced phosphorylation at Src-pY416. These results suggest OPG disrupts the attachment structures of osteoclasts and activates Src as an adaptor protein that competes for the reduced amount of phosphorylated Pyk2 through calcium- and ERK-dependent signaling pathways. p38 MAPK signaling may have a different role in OPG-induced osteoclast retraction. Our findings potentially offer novel insights into the signaling mechanisms downstream of OPG that affect osteoclast attachment to the extracellular matrix.

Regulation of osteoclasts by membrane-derived lipid mediators

Osteoclasts are bone-resorbing cells of monocytic origin. An imbalance between bone formation and resorption can lead to osteoporosis or osteopetrosis. Osteoclastogenesis is triggered by RANKL- and IP3-induced Ca²⁺ influx followed by activation of NFATc1, a master transcription factor for osteoclastogenic gene regulation. During differentiation, osteoclasts undergo cytoskeletal remodeling to migrate and attach to the bone surface. Simultaneously, they fuse with each other to form multinucleated cells. These processes require PI3-kinase-dependent cytoskeletal protein activation to initiate cytoskeletal remodeling, resulting in the formation of circumferential podosomes and fusion-competent protrusions. In multinucleated osteoclasts, circumferential podosomes mature into stabilized actin rings, which enables the formation of a ruffled border where intensive membrane trafficking is executed. Membrane lipids, especially phosphoinositides, are key signaling molecules that regulate osteoclast morphology and act as second messengers and docking sites for multiple important effectors. We examine the critical roles of phosphoinositides in the signaling cascades that regulate osteoclast functions.

Class IA phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulates osteoclastic bone resorption through protein kinase B-mediated vesicle transport

Class IA phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are activated by growth factor receptors and regulate a wide range of cellular processes. In osteoclasts, they are activated downstream of α(v) β(3) integrin and colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (c-Fms), which are involved in the regulation of bone-resorbing activity. The physiological relevance of the in vitro studies using PI3K inhibitors has been of limited value, because they inhibit all classes of PI3K. Here, we show that the osteoclast-specific deletion of the p85 genes encoding the regulatory subunit of the class IA PI3K results in an osteopetrotic phenotype caused by a defect in the bone-resorbing activity of osteoclasts. Class IA PI3K is required for the ruffled border formation and vesicular transport, but not for the formation of the sealing zone. p85α/β doubly deficient osteoclasts had a defect in macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)-induced protein kinase B (Akt) activation and the introduction of constitutively active Akt recovered the bone-resorbing activity. Thus, the class IA PI3K-Akt pathway regulates the cellular machinery crucial for osteoclastic bone resorption, and may provide a molecular basis for therapeutic strategies against bone diseases.

Pyk2 mediates increased adrenergic contractile responses in arteries from DOCA-salt mice - VASOACTIVE PEPTIDE SYMPOSIUM

BACKGROUND

The calcium-dependent proline-rich tyrosine kinase (Pyk2), a nonreceptor protein activated by tyrosine phosphorylation, links G protein-coupled receptors to vascular responses. We tested the hypothesis that enhanced vascular reactivity in DOCA-salt hypertensive mice are due to increased activation of Pyk2.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Aorta and small mesenteric arteries from DOCA-salt and uninephrectomized (UNI) male C57Bl/6 mice were used. Systolic blood pressure (mmHg) was higher in DOCA (126+/-3) vs. UNI (100+/-4) mice. Vascular responses to phenylephrine (1nM to 100muM) were greater both in aorta and small mesenteric arteries from DOCA-salt than UNI, but treatment with Tyrphostin A-9 (0.1muM, Pyk2 inhibitor) abolished the difference among the groups. Pyk2 levels, as well as phospho-Pyk2(Tyr402), paxillin and phospho-paxillin(Tyr118) were increased in DOCA-salt aorta. Incubation of vessels with Tyrphostin A-9 restored phosphorylation of Pyk2 and paxillin.

CONCLUSION

Increased activation of Pyk2 contributes to increased vascular contractile-responses in DOCA-salt mice.

Regulation of bone mass and osteoclast function depend on the F-actin modulator SWAP-70

Bone remodeling involves tightly regulated bone-resorbing osteoclasts and bone-forming osteoblasts. Determining osteoclast function is central to understanding bone diseases such as osteoporosis and osteopetrosis. Here, we report a novel function of the F-actin binding and regulatory protein SWAP-70 in osteoclast biology. F-actin ring formation, cell morphology, and bone resorption are impaired in Swap-70(-/-) osteoclasts, whereas the expression of osteoclast differentiation markers induced in vitro by macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) remains unaffected. Swap-70(-/-) mice develop osteopetrosis with increased bone mass, abnormally dense bone, and impaired osteoclast function. Ectopic expression of SWAP-70 in Swap-70(-/-) osteoclasts in vitro rescues their deficiencies in bone resorption and F-actin ring formation. Rescue requires a functional pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, known to support membrane localization of SWAP-70, and the F-actin binding domain. Transplantation of SWAP-70-proficient bone marrow into Swap-70(-/-) mice restores osteoclast resorption capacity in vivo. The identification of the role of SWAP-70 in promoting osteoclast function through modulating membrane-proximal F-actin rearrangements reveals a new pathway to control osteoclasts and bone homeostasis.

Tks5-dependent formation of circumferential podosomes/invadopodia mediates cell-cell fusion

Tks5, a master regulator of invadopodia in cancer cells, is also crucial for osteoclast cell–cell fusion.

Osteoclasts fuse to form multinucleated cells during osteoclastogenesis. This process is mediated by dynamic rearrangement of the plasma membrane and cytoskeleton, and it requires numerous factors, many of which have been identified. The underlying mechanism remains obscure, however. In this paper, we show that Tks5, a master regulator of invadopodia in cancer cells, is crucial for osteoclast fusion downstream of phosphoinositide 3-kinase and Src. Expression of Tks5 was induced during osteoclastogenesis, and prevention of this induction impaired both the formation of circumferential podosomes and osteoclast fusion without affecting cell differentiation. Tyrosine phosphorylation of Tks5 was attenuated in Src^−/− osteoclasts, likely accounting for defects in podosome organization and multinucleation in these cells. Circumferential invadopodia formation in B16F0 melanoma cells was also accompanied by Tks5 phosphorylation. Co-culture of B16F0 cells with osteoclasts in an inflammatory milieu promoted the formation of melanoma–osteoclast hybrid cells. Our results thus reveal an unexpected link between circumferential podosome/invadopodium formation and cell–cell fusion in and beyond osteoclasts.

Fyn promotes proliferation, differentiation, survival and function of osteoclast lineage cells

c-Src and Lyn are the only Src family kinases (SFKs) with established activity in osteoclasts (OCs). c-Src promotes function via cytoskeletal organization of the mature resorptive cell while Lyn is a negative regulator of osteoclastogenesis. We establish that Fyn, another SFK, also impacts the OC, but in a manner distinctly different than c-Src and Lyn. Fyn deficiency principally alters cells throughout the osteoclastogenic process, resulting in diminished numbers of resorptive polykaryons. Arrested OC formation in the face of insufficient Fyn reflects reduced proliferation of precursors, in response to M-CSF and retarded RANK ligand (RANKL)-induced differentiation, attended by suppressed activation of the osteoclastogenic signaling molecules, c-Jun, and NF-κB. The anti-apoptotic properties of RANKL are also compromised in cells deleted of Fyn, an event mediated by increased Bim expression and failed activation of Akt. The defective osteoclastogenesis of Fyn-/- OCs dampens bone resorption, in vitro. Finally, while Fyn deficiency does not regulate basal osteoclastogenesis, in vivo, it reduces that stimulated by RANKL by ~2/3. Thus, Fyn is a pro-resorptive SFK, which exerts its effects by prompting proliferation and differentiation while attenuating apoptosis of OC lineage cells.

Analysis of the signaling pathways regulating Src-dependent remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton

Cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix is mediated by adhesion receptors, mainly integrins, which upon interaction with the extracellular matrix, bind to the actin cytoskeleton via their cytoplasmic domains. This association is mediated by a variety of scaffold and signaling proteins, which control the mechanical and signaling activities of the adhesion site. Upon transformation of fibroblasts with active forms of Src (e.g., v-Src), focal adhesions are disrupted, and transformed into dot-like contacts known as podosomes, and consisting of a central actin core surrounded by an adhesion ring. To clarify the mechanism underlying Src-dependent modulation of the adhesive phenotype, and its influence on podosome organization, we screened for the effect of siRNA-mediated knockdown of tyrosine kinases, MAP kinases and phosphatases on the reorganization of the adhesion-cytoskeleton complex, induced by a constitutively active Src mutant (SrcY527F). In this screen, we discovered several genes that are involved in Src-induced remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. We further showed that knockdown of Src in osteoclasts abolishes the formation of the podosome-based rings and impairs cell spreading, without inducing stress fiber development. Our work points to several genes that are involved in this process, and sheds new light on the molecular plasticity of integrin adhesions.

Regulation of sealing ring formation by L-plastin and cortactin in osteoclasts

The aim of this study is to identify the exact mechanism(s) by which cytoskeletal structures are modulated during bone resorption. In this study, we have shown the possible role of different actin-binding and signaling proteins in the regulation of sealing ring formation. Our analyses have demonstrated a significant increase in cortactin and a corresponding decrease in L-plastin protein levels in osteoclasts subjected to bone resorption for 18 h in the presence of RANKL, M-CSF, and native bone particles. Time-dependent changes in the localization of L-plastin (in actin aggregates) and cortactin (in the sealing ring) suggest that these proteins may be involved in the initial and maturation phases of sealing ring formation, respectively. siRNA to cortactin inhibits this maturation process but not the formation of actin aggregates. Osteoclasts treated as above but with TNF-α demonstrated very similar effects as observed with RANKL. Osteoclasts treated with a neutralizing antibody to TNF-α displayed podosome-like structures in the entire subsurface and at the periphery of osteoclast. It is possible that TNF-α and RANKL-mediated signaling may play a role in the early phase of sealing ring configuration (i.e. either in the disassembly of podosomes or formation of actin aggregates). Furthermore, osteoclasts treated with alendronate or αv reduced the formation of the sealing ring but not actin aggregates. The present study demonstrates a novel mechanistic link between L-plastin and cortactin in sealing ring formation. These results suggest that actin aggregates formed by L-plastin independent of integrin signaling function as a core in assembling signaling molecules (integrin αvβ3, Src, cortactin, etc.) involved in the maturation process.

Adhesion signaling - crosstalk between integrins, Src and Rho

Interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix coordinate signaling pathways that control various aspects of cellular behavior. Integrins sense the physical properties of the extracellular matrix and organize the cytoskeleton accordingly. In turn, this modulates signaling pathways that are triggered by various other transmembrane receptors and augments the cellular response to growth factors. Over the past years, it has become clear that there is extensive crosstalk between integrins, Src-family kinases and Rho-family GTPases at the heart of such adhesion signaling. In this Commentary, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the dynamic regulation of the molecular connections between these three protein families. We also discuss how this signaling network can regulate a range of cellular processes that are important for normal tissue function and disease, including cell adhesion, spreading, migration and mechanotransduction.

The Src inhibitor AZD0530 reversibly inhibits the formation and activity of human osteoclasts

Tumor cells in the bone microenvironment are able to initiate a vicious cycle of bone degradation by mobilizing osteoclasts, multinucleated cells specialized in bone degradation. c-Src is highly expressed both in tumors and in osteoclasts. Therefore, drugs like AZD0530, designed to inhibit Src activity, could selectively interfere with both tumor and osteoclast activity. Here we explored the effects of AZD0530 on human osteoclast differentiation and activity. The effect on osteoclasts formed in vivo was assessed in mouse fetal calvarial explants and in isolated rabbit osteoclasts, where it dose-dependently inhibited osteoclast activity. Its effect on formation and activity of human osteoclasts in vitro was determined in cocultures of human osteoblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. AZD0530 was most effective in inhibiting osteoclast-like cell formation when present at the onset of osteoclastogenesis, suggesting that Src activity is important during the initial phase of osteoclast formation. Formation of active phosphorylated c-Src, which was highly present in osteoclast-like cells in cocultures and in peripheral blood mononuclear cell monocultures, was significantly reduced by AZD0530. Furthermore, it reversibly prevented osteoclast precursor migration from the osteoblast layer to the bone surface and subsequent formation of actin rings and resorption pits. These data suggest that Src is pivotal for the formation and activity of human osteoclasts, probably through its effect on the distribution of the actin microfilament system. The reversible effect of AZD0530 on osteoclast formation and activity makes it a promising candidate to temper osteoclastic bone degradation in bone diseases with enhanced osteoclast activity such as osteolytic metastatic bone disease.

Dynamin reduces Pyk2 Y402 phosphorylation and SRC binding in osteoclasts

Signaling via the Pyk2-Src-Cbl complex downstream of integrins contributes to the assembly, organization, and dynamics of podosomes, which are the transient adhesion complexes of highly motile cells such as osteoclasts and dendritic cells. We previously demonstrated that the GTPase dynamin is associated with podosomes, regulates actin flux in podosomes, and promotes bone resorption by osteoclasts. We report here that dynamin associates with Pyk2, independent of dynamin's GTPase activity, and reduces Pyk2 Y402 phosphorylation in a GTPase-dependent manner, leading to decreased Src binding to Pyk2. Overexpressing dynamin decreased the macrophage colony-stimulating factor- and adhesion-induced phosphorylation of Pyk2 in osteoclastlike cells, suggesting that dynamin is likely to regulate Src-Pyk2 binding downstream of integrins and growth factor receptors with important cellular consequences. Furthermore, catalytically active Src promotes dynamin-Pyk2 association, and mutating specific Src-phosphorylated tyrosine residues in dynamin blunts the dynamin-induced decrease in Pyk2 phosphorylation. Thus, since Src binds to Pyk2 through its interaction with phospho-Y402, our results suggest that Src activates a negative-feedback loop downstream of integrin engagement and other stimuli by promoting both the binding of dynamin to Pyk2-containing complexes and the dynamin-dependent decrease in Pyk2 Y402 phosphorylation, ultimately leading to the dissociation of Src from Pyk2.

Disruption of c-Jun reduces cellular migration and invasion through inhibition of c-Src and hyperactivation of ROCK II kinase

The spread of metastatic tumors to different organs is associated with poor prognosis. The metastatic process requires migration and cellular invasion. The protooncogene c-jun encodes the founding member of the activator protein-1 family and is required for cellular proliferation and DNA synthesis in response to oncogenic signals and plays an essential role in chemical carcinogenesis. The role of c-Jun in cellular invasion remains to be defined. Genetic deletion of c-Jun in transgenic mice is embryonic lethal; therefore, transgenic mice encoding a c-Jun gene flanked by LoxP sites (c-jun(f/f)) were used. c-jun gene deletion reduced c-Src expression, hyperactivated ROCK II signaling, and reduced cellular polarity, migration, and invasiveness. c-Jun increased c-Src mRNA abundance and c-Src promoter activity involving an AP-1 site in the c-Src promoter. Transduction of c-jun(-/-) cells with either c-Jun or c-Src retroviral expression systems restored the defective cellular migration of c-jun(-/-) cells. As c-Src is a critical component of pathways regulating proliferation, survival, and metastasis, the induction of c-Src abundance, by c-Jun, provides a novel mechanism of cooperative signaling in cellular invasion.

The tyrosine kinase activity of c-Src regulates actin dynamics and organization of podosomes in osteoclasts

Podosomes are dynamic actin-rich structures composed of a dense F-actin core surrounded by a cloud of more diffuse F-actin. Src performs one or more unique functions in osteoclasts (OCLs), and podosome belts and bone resorption are impaired in the absence of Src. Using Src(-/-) OCLs, we investigated the specific functions of Src in the organization and dynamics of podosomes. We found that podosome number and the podosome-associated actin cloud were decreased in Src(-/-) OCLs. Videomicroscopy and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analysis revealed that the life span of Src(-/-) podosomes was increased fourfold and that the rate of actin flux in the core was decreased by 40%. Thus, Src regulates the formation, structure, life span, and rate of actin polymerization in podosomes and in the actin cloud. Rescue of Src(-/-) OCLs with Src mutants showed that both the kinase activity and either the SH2 or the SH3 binding domain are required for Src to restore normal podosome organization and dynamics. Moreover, inhibition of Src family kinase activities in Src(-/-) OCLs by Src inhibitors or by expressing dominant-negative Src(K295M) induced the formation of abnormal podosomes. Thus, Src is an essential regulator of podosome structure, dynamics and organization.

Involvement of the Src-cortactin pathway in podosome formation and turnover during polarization of cultured osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are large, multinucleated cells that adhere to bone via podosomes, and degrade it. During osteoclast polarization, podosomes undergo reorganization from a scattered distribution, through the formation of clusters and ring super-structures, to the assembly of a sealing zone at the cell periphery. In the present study, we demonstrate that the levels of podosome-associated actin, and its reorganization in cultured osteoclasts, radically increase upon formation of podosome rings. At the peripheral ring, actin levels and dynamic reorganization were high, whereas paxillin, associated with the same adhesion super-structure, remained relatively stable. These dynamic changes were regulated by the tyrosine kinase pp60c-Src, whose scaffolding activity supported the assembly of immature stationary podosomes; its catalytic activity was essential for podosome maturation and turnover. The enhanced dynamic reorganization of podosomes during osteoclast polarization was inversely related to the local levels of tyrosine phosphorylation of the Src substrate, cortactin. Furthermore, overexpression of cortactin, mutated at its major Src phosphorylation sites, enhanced actin turnover, suggesting that podosome dynamics in polarizing osteoclasts are attributable to the downregulation of cortactin activity by its Src-dependent phosphorylation.

An osteoclastic protein-tyrosine phosphatase is a potential positive regulator of the c-Src protein-tyrosine kinase activity: a mediator of osteoclast activity

This study tested the hypothesis that an osteoclastic protein-tyrosine phosphatase, PTP-oc, enhances osteoclast activity through c-Src activation. The effects of several resorption activators and inhibitors on PTP-oc expression, resorption activity, and c-Src activation were determined in rabbit osteoclasts. PTP-oc expression was assayed with immunoblots and semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Osteoclastic activity was determined by the resorption pit assay; and c-Src activation was monitored by P-tyr527 (PY527) dephosphorylation, and in vitro kinase assay. Treatment of osteoclasts with PTH, PGE2, 1,25(OH)2D3, IL-1, but not RANKL or IL-6, significantly stimulated resorption activity, increased PTP-oc mRNA and protein levels, and reduced c-Src PY527 level with corresponding activation of c-Src protein-tyrosine kinase activity. The PTP-oc antisense phosphorothioated oligo treatment blocked the basal and IL-1alpha-mediated, but not RANKL-mediated, resorption activity of isolated osteoclasts. The antisense oligo treatment also significantly reduced the average depth of resorption pits created by rabbit osteoclasts under basal conditions. Calcitonin and alendondrate, significantly reduced resorption activity and PTP-oc expression, and increased c-Src PY527 with corresponding reduction in its PTK activity. The cellular PTP-oc protein level correlated with the resorption activity. Among the various signaling proteins co-immunoprecipitated with PTP-oc, the resorption effectors caused corresponding changes in the tyrosyl phosphorylation level of only c-Src. The GST-PTP-oc fusion protein dephosphorylated PY-527-containing c-Src peptide in time- and dose-dependent manner in vitro. In summary, (1) PTP-oc is regulated in part at transcriptional level, (2) upregulation of PTP-oc in osteoclasts led to c-Src activation, and (3) PY527 of c-Src may be a cellular substrate of PTP-oc. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that PTP-oc is a positive regulator of c-Src in osteoclasts.

Src homology 2 (SH2)-containing 5'-inositol phosphatase localizes to podosomes, and the SH2 domain is implicated in the attenuation of bone resorption in osteoclasts

c-Src plays an important role in bone resorption by osteoclasts. Here, we show using wild-type and ship(-/-) osteoclasts that Src homology 2 (SH2)-containing 5'-inositol phosphatase (SHIP) appeared to negatively regulate bone resorption activated by c-Src. SHIP was found to localize to podosomes under the influence of c-Src, and the presence of either the amino-terminal region comprising the SH2 domain or the carboxyl-terminal region was sufficient for its localization. Although SHIP lacking a functional SH2 domain was still found in podosomes, it could not rescue the hyper-bone resorbing activity and hypersensitivity to receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand in ship(-/-) osteoclasts, suggesting that the localization of SHIP to podosomes per se was not sufficient and the SH2 domain was indispensable for its function. Cas and c-Cbl, known to function in podosomes of osteoclasts, were identified as novel proteins binding to the SHIP SH2 domain by mass spectrometric analysis, and this interaction appeared to be dependent on the Src kinase activity. These results demonstrate that c-Src enhances the translocation of SHIP to podosomes and regulates its function there through the SH2 domain, leading to an attenuation of bone resorption.

Molecular regulation of osteoclast activity

Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells derived from hematopoietic precursors that are primarily responsible for the degradation of mineralized bone during bone development, homeostasis and repair. In various skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis, hypercalcemia of malignancy, tumor metastases and Paget's disease, bone resorption by osteoclasts exceeds bone formation by osteoblasts leading to decreased bone mass, skeletal fragility and bone fracture. The overall rate of osteoclastic bone resorption is regulated either at the level of differentiation of osteoclasts from their monocytic/macrophage precursor pool or through the regulation of key functional proteins whose specific activities in the mature osteoclast control its attachment, migration and resorption. Thus, reducing osteoclast numbers and/or decreasing the bone resorbing activity of osteoclasts are two common therapeutic approaches for the treatment of hyper-resorptive skeletal diseases. In this review, several of the key functional players involved in the regulation of osteoclast activity will be discussed.

The molecular dynamics of osteoclast adhesions

Podosomes are specialized adhesive structures that play a central role in bone resorption. In this article we address the molecular diversity and dynamics of podosomes at different states of organization, ranging from scattered distribution over the entire ventral membrane of non-polarized cells, via formation of podosome clusters and developing rings to the assembly of a peripheral belt, resembling the sealing zone of polarized, bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Based on published data and on our own results, we describe here the spatial relationships between key podosome-associated proteins. Using quantitative microscopy, we show here a dramatic increase in the local levels of F-actin, vinculin, paxillin, and alpha-actinin, which occurs upon the transformation of clustered podosomes into rings and sealing zone-like structures. This change is accompanied by a marked decrease in phosphotyrosine levels in the same region. Therefore, our data suggest that a major change in the molecular composition of podosomes is taking place during osteoclast polarization, a change that may be related to adhesion "reinforcement", associated with the assembly of the bone-resorbing apparatus. Studying the nature of the proteins that undergo de-phosphorylation is critical for the understanding of the mechanisms regulating the processes described above.

Cell surface transglutaminase promotes RhoA activation via integrin clustering and suppression of the Src-p190RhoGAP signaling pathway

Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is a multifunctional protein that serves as cross-linking enzyme and integrin-binding adhesion coreceptor for fibronectin on the cell surface. Previous work showed activation of small GTPase RhoA via enzymatic transamidation by cytoplasmic tTG. Here, we report an alternative nonenzymatic mechanism of RhoA activation by cell surface tTG. Direct engagement of surface tTG with specific antibody or the fibronectin fragment containing modules I(6)II(1,2)I(7-9) increases RhoA-GTP levels. Integrin-dependent signaling to RhoA and its downstream target Rho-associated coiled-coil containing serine/threonine protein kinase (ROCK) is amplified by surface tTG. tTG expression on the cell surface elevates RhoA-GTP levels in nonadherent and adherent cells, delays maximal RhoA activation upon cell adhesion to fibronectin and accelerates a rise in RhoA activity after binding soluble integrin ligands. These data indicate that surface tTG induces integrin clustering regardless of integrin-ligand interactions. This notion is supported by visualization of integrin clusters, increased susceptibility of integrins to chemical cross-linking, and biochemical detection of large integrin complexes in cells expressing tTG. In turn, integrin aggregation by surface tTG inhibits Src kinase activity and decreases activation of the Src substrate p190RhoGAP. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of Src kinase reveals inactivation of Src signaling as the primary cause of elevated RhoA activity in cells expressing tTG. Together, these findings show that surface tTG amplifies integrin-mediated signaling to RhoA/ROCK via integrin clustering and down-regulation of the Src-p190RhoGAP regulatory pathway.

The role(s) of Src kinase and Cbl proteins in the regulation of osteoclast differentiation and function

The osteoclast resorbs mineralized bone during bone development, homeostasis, and repair. The deletion of the gene encoding the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase c-Src produces an osteopetrotic skeletal phenotype that is the consequence of the inability of the mature osteoclast to efficiently resorb bone. Src-/- osteoclasts exhibit reduced motility and abnormal organization of the apical secretory domain (the ruffled border) and attachment-related cytoskeletal elements that are necessary for bone resorption. A key function of Src in osteoclasts is to promote the rapid assembly and disassembly of the podosomes, the specialized integrin-based attachment structures of osteoclasts and other highly motile cells. Once recruited to the activated integrins, especially alphavbeta3), by the adhesion tyrosine kinase Pyk2, Src binds and phosphorylates Cbl and Cbl-b, homologous multisite adapter proteins with ubiquitin ligase activity. The Cbl proteins in turn recruit and activate additional signaling effectors, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and dynamin, which play key roles in the development of cell polarity and the regulation of cell attachment and motility. In addition, Src and the Cbl proteins contribute to signaling cascades that are activated by several important receptors, including receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB and the macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor, and also downregulate the signaling from many of these receptors.

Integrins and Src: dynamic duo of adhesion signaling

Src family protein tyrosine kinases (SFKs) play important roles downstream of integrin adhesion receptors, and they are necessary for the generation of "outside-in signals" that regulate cytoskeletal organization, cell motility and gene expression in response to cell adhesion. One relatively under-explored facet of this relationship is the possible physical interaction of integrins with SFKs. Recently, it has been established that beta3 integrins and c-Src can interact directly, and this pool of c-Src is activated by cell adhesion to initiate outside-in signaling in platelets, osteoclasts and cells of the vasculature. Here, the biochemical basis for and biological significance of this integrin-SFK interaction is summarized, and I propose a general mechanism for initiation of outside-in integrin signaling.

alphavbeta3 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor: partners in osteoclast biology

Osteoclasts, the sole bone-resorbing cells, arise by fusion and differentiation of monocyte/macrophage precursors. Matrix degradation requires adhesion of the osteoclast to bone, an integrin alphavbeta3-mediated event that also stimulates signals which polarize the cell and secrete resorptive molecules such as hydrochloric acid and acidic proteases. Two cytokines are necessary and sufficient for osteoclastogenesis, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), both produced by mesenchymal cells in the bone marrow environment. M-CSF promotes survival and proliferation of osteoclast precursors. It also contributes to their differentiation and regulates the cytoskeletal changes that accompany bone resorption. Binding of M-CSF to c-Fms, its receptor, recruits adapter proteins and cytosolic kinases, thereby activating a variety of intracellular signals. We herein review how alphavbeta3 and M-CSF, alone and in concert, impact production, survival, and function of the osteoclast, thereby controlling skeletal mass. Signals from alphavbeta3 and/or c-Fms activate Syk and Vav3, originally defined by their function in lymphoid cells. Genetic depletion of either protein generates a strong bone phenotype, underscoring the promise of osteoimmunobiology.

In Vitro, Ex Vivo, andIn VivoMethodological Approaches for Studying Therapeutic Targets of Osteoporosis and Degenerative Joint Diseases: How Biomarkers Can Assist?

Although our approach to the clinical management of osteoporosis (OP) and degenerative joint diseases (DJD)-major causes of disability and morbidity in the elderly-has greatly advanced in the past decades, curative treatments that could bring ultimate solutions have yet to be found or developed. Effective and timely development of candidate drugs is a critical function of the availability of sensitive and accurate methodological arsenal enabling the recognition and quantification of pharmacodynamic effects. The established concept that both OP and DJD arise from an imbalance in processes of tissue formation and degradation draws attention to need of establishing in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental settings, which allow obtaining insights into the mechanisms driving increased bone and cartilage degradation at cellular, organ, and organism levels. When addressing changes in bone or cartilage turnover at the organ or organism level, monitoring tools adequately reflecting the outcome of tissue homeostasis become particularly critical. In this context, bioassays targeting the quantification of various degradation and formation products of bone and cartilage matrix elements represent a useful approach. In this review, a comprehensive overview of widely used and recently established in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo set-ups is provided, which in many cases effectively take advantage of the potentials of biomarkers. In addition to describing and discussing the advantages and limitations of each assay and their methods of evaluation, we added experimental and clinical data illustrating the utility of biomarkers for these methodological approaches.

Regulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor signal transduction by protein tyrosine kinases

The involvement of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-mediated signalling by omeprazole and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) was investigated in hepatoma cells. Both omeprazole- and TCDD-dependent AhR signalling was attenuated by inhibition of c-src kinase, either by using pyrazolopyrimidine 4-amino-5-(4-methylphenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4 ]pyrimidine (PP1) and 4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2) inhibitors or by expression of dominant-negative c-src. These results indicate that the overall AhR function is modulated by c-src kinase activity. In contrast, a selective inhibition of omeprazole-mediated AhR signalling was revealed by tyrosine kinase inhibitors, tyrphostins AG17 and AG879. Furthermore, omeprazole-dependent AhR activation was abolished by mutation of Tyr320 to Phe, suggesting that this residue is a putative phosphorylation site. TCDD-dependent AhR signalling was neither affected by tyrphostins nor by this mutation. Our results are consistent with activation of the AhR by omeprazole in a ligand-independent manner, via a signal transduction pathway that involves protein tyrosine kinases, and are different from the mechanism exerted by high-affinity ligands.

Osteoclast signalling pathways

The osteoclast is a monocyte-derived cell with complex regulatory control due to its role, balancing calcium homeostasis with skeletal modelling and repair. Normal differentiation requires tyrosine kinase- and tumor necrosis-family receptors, normally fms and RANK. Ligands for these receptors plus unidentified serum or cell-presented factor(s) are needed for in vitro differentiation, possibly signalling via an immune-like tyrosine kinase acceptor molecule. Osteoclast development and activity are increased by cytokines signalling through GP130, such as IL-6, by TGF-beta, and by IL-1, although these cannot replace serum. Other tyrosine kinase receptors including kit and met can augment fms signalling, and TNFs other than RANKL, including TNFalpha and TRAIL, modify RANK signalling, which is also susceptible to interference by interferons. The situation is further complicated by G-protein coupled receptors including the calcitonin receptor, by integrin or calcium-mediated signals, and by estrogen receptors, which operate in bone largely via NO downstream signals. Differentiation, activity, and survival signals merge in intracellular second messengers. These include cytoplasmic kinases of several families; differentiation pathways often terminate in Erk/Jun kinases or NF-kappaB. Key regulatory intermediates include TRAF6, src, Smad3, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, Jak/Stat, and the cGMP-dependent protein kinase I. There are substantial uncertainties regarding how intracellular agents connect to primary signals. The frontier includes characterization of how scaffolding/adapter proteins, such as cbl, gab, grb, p130Cas, and shc, as well as itam-containing proteins and nonreceptor tyrosine kinase adapters of the src and syk families, delimit and integrate signals of multiple receptors to bring about specific outcomes.

The interplay between Src and integrins in normal and tumor biology

Src family nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases transduce signals that control normal cellular processes such as cell proliferation, adhesion and motility. Normally, cellular Src is held in an inactive state, but in several cancer types, abnormal events lead to elevated kinase activity of the protein and cause pleiotropic cellular responses inducing transformation and metastasis. A prerequisite of the ability of a cancer cell to undergo metastasis into distant tissues is to penetrate surrounding extracellular matrices. These processes are facilitated by the integrin family of cell adhesion molecules. As is the case with Src, altered integrin activity or substrate affinity can contribute to the neoplastic phenotype. Therefore, understanding the interplay between Src and integrin function has been of intense interest over the past few years. This review focuses on the role of Src and integrin signaling in normal cells and how this is deregulated in human cancer. We will identify the key players in the integrin-mediated signaling pathways involved in cell motility and apoptosis, such as FAK, paxillin and p130(CAS), and discuss how Src signaling affects the formation of focal adhesions and the extracellular matrix.

Actin-related protein 2/3 complex is required for actin ring formation

Actin rings are vital for osteoclastic bone resorption, and actin-related protein 2/3 complex is a pivotal regulator of actin polymerization. Actin-related protein 2/3 complex was found in the podosomes of actin rings. A short interfering RNA knocked down expression of actin-related protein 2 in osteoclasts and disrupted actin rings, suggesting that the complex is crucial to actin ring formation.

INTRODUCTION

To resorb bone, osteoclasts form an extracellular acidic compartment segregated by a sealing zone. This is dependent on an actin ring that is composed of filamentous actin organized into dynamic structures called podosomes. The actin-related protein 2/3 (Arp2/3) complex is a vital regulator of actin polymerization. We tested whether the Arp2/3 complex is a component of actin rings and is important for actin ring formation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Western blot analysis was used to determine levels of Arp2 and Arp3, two components of the Arp2/3 complex in osteoclast-like cells. Confocal microscopy studies using antibodies for immunocytochemistry demonstrated localization of Arp2/3 complex in osteoclasts. Short interfering RNA oligonucleotides (siRNAs) were made against Arp2 and used to knock down its expression.

RESULTS

A 3-fold increase in Arp2 and Arp3 was detected during RANKL-induced differentiation of RAW 264.7 cells into osteoclast-like cells. Arp2/3 complex was concentrated in actin rings and enriched near the sealing zone. Arp2/3 complex co-localized with cortactin, a component of podosomes, but not vinculin, which surrounds podosomes. siRNA against Arp2, transfected into RAW 264.7 cells 5 days after stimulation with RANKL, reduced Arp2 protein levels 70% compared with cells transfected with ineffective siRNAs. Cytochemical characterization of RAW 264.7 osteoclast-like cells and marrow osteoclasts in which Arp2 was knocked down revealed fewer podosomes and no actin rings, although many cells remained well spread.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that Arp2/3 complex is a component of actin rings and that the presence of Arp2/3 complex is vital to the formation of actin rings. In addition, the results show the use of siRNAs for the study of RAW 264.7 osteoclast-like cells.

Src kinase activation by direct interaction with the integrin beta cytoplasmic domain

Src tyrosine kinases transmit integrin-dependent signals pivotal for cell movement and proliferation. Here, we establish a mechanism for Src activation by integrins. c-Src is shown to bind constitutively and selectively to beta3 integrins through an interaction involving the c-Src SH3 domain and the carboxyl-terminal region of the beta3 cytoplasmic tail. Clustering of beta3 integrins in vivo activates c-Src and induces phosphorylation of Tyr-418 in the c-Src activation loop, a reaction essential for adhesion-dependent phosphorylation of Syk, a c-Src substrate. Unlike c-Src, Hck, Lyn, and c-Yes bind more generally to beta1A, beta2, and beta3 cytoplasmic tails. These results invoke a model whereby Src is primed for activation by direct interaction with an integrin beta tail, and integrin clustering stabilizes activated Src by inducing intermolecular autophosphorylation. The data provide a paradigm for integrin regulation of Src and a molecular basis for the similar functional defects of osteoclasts or platelets from mice lacking beta3 integrins or c-Src.

PYK2 autophosphorylation, but not kinase activity, is necessary for adhesion-induced association with c-Src, osteoclast spreading, and bone resorption

Proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (PYK2) is the main adhesion-induced kinase in bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Previous studies have shown that ligation of alpha(v)beta(3) integrin in osteoclasts induces c-Src-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation and PYK2 activation, leading to cytoskeletal rearrangement, migration, and polarization of these cells. In this study, we examined the role of PYK2 kinase activity and its major autophosphorylation site in adhesion-dependent signaling and cytoskeletal organization during osteoclast spreading and migration. By infecting pre-fusion osteoclasts using recombinant adenovirus expressing PYK2 and its mutants, we demonstrated that mutation at the autophosphorylation site (Y402F) abolishes PYK2 association with c-Src and reduces significantly phosphorylation at tyrosines 579/580 and 881 resulting in inhibition of osteoclast spreading and bone resorption. Overexpression of the kinase-dead PYK2(K475A) mutant had no effect on cell spreading, interaction with c-Src, or the phosphorylation level of Tyr-402, Tyr-579/580, and Tyr-881 relative to PYK2(wt)-expressing cells. Taken together these findings suggest that Tyr-402 is the major docking site for c-Src and can be phosphorylated by another tyrosine kinase in osteoclasts but not in HEK293 cells. Interestingly, both PYK2(Y402F) and PYK2(K457A) translocate normally to podosomes and have no effect on macrophage colony-stimulating factor-induced osteoclast migration. Whereas PYK2(Y402F) dominant negatively blocks osteoclast spreading and bone resorption, PYK2(K457A) may function in part as an adaptor by initially recruiting c-Src to the adhesion complex, which appears to activate PYK2 by phosphorylating additional tyrosines in its regulatory and C-terminal domains. We thus concluded that phosphorylation at Tyr-402 in PYK2 is essential in the regulation of adhesion-dependent cytoskeletal organization in osteoclasts.

Formation and function of the ruffled border in osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are multinucleated hematopoietic cells specialised for bone resorption. Dissolution of the inorganic fraction of the bone matrix is mediated by acidification of the bone surface in contact with the osteoclast whereas secreted lysosomal enzymes digest organic components. Through massive exocytosis, the plasma membrane in contact with the bone surface enlarges into the ruffled border, which has unusual features more similar to endosomal/lysosomal membranes. Maintenance of the ruffled border during resorption is achieved through a balance between exocytosis and endocytosis. Inactivation of proteins necessary for the extracellular acidification or of the proteases involved in matrix degradation leads to osteopetrosis; a disease characterised by dense bones.

Dopamine D(4) and D(2L) Receptor Stimulation of the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway Is Dependent on trans-Activation of the Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor

The ability of dopamine D(4) and D(2) receptors to activate extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) 1 and 2 was compared using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells transfected with D(4.2), D(4.4), D(4.7), and D(2L) receptors. Dopamine stimulation of D(4) or D(2L) receptors produced a transient, dose-dependent increase in ERK1/2 activity. Receptor-specific activation of the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway was confirmed using the D(2)-like receptor-selective agonist quinpirole, whereas the specific antagonist haloperidol blocked activation. MAPK stimulation was dependent on a pertussis-toxin-sensitive G protein (G(i/o)). trans-Activation of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor was an essential step in D(4) and D(2L) receptor-induced MAPK activation. PDGF receptor-selective tyrosine kinase inhibitors tyrphostin A9 and AG1295 abolished or significantly inhibited ERK1/2 activation by D(4) and D(2L) receptors. Dopamine stimulation of the D(4) receptor also produced a rapid increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of the PDGF receptor-beta. The Src-family tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP2 blocked MAPK activation by dopamine; however, this drug was also found to inhibit PDGF-BB-stimulated ERK activity and autophosphorylation of the PDGF receptor-beta. Downstream signaling pathways support the involvement of a receptor tyrosine kinase. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002, protein kinase C inhibitors GF109203X and Calphostin C, dominant-negative RasN17, and the MEK inhibitor PD98059 significantly attenuated or abolished activation of MAPK by dopamine D(4) and D(2L) receptors. Our results indicate that D(4) and D(2L) receptors activate the ERK kinase cascade by first mobilizing signaling by the PDGF receptor, followed by the subsequent activation of ERK1/2 by pathways associated with this receptor tyrosine kinase.

Inhibition of osteoclast function by adenovirus expressing antisense protein-tyrosine kinase 2

Osteoclast activation is initiated by adhesion to bone, cytoskeletal rearrangement, formation of the sealing zone, and formation of the polarized ruffled membrane. Previous findings suggest that protein-tyrosine kinase 2 (PYK2), a cytoplasmic kinase related to focal adhesion kinase, participates in these events. This study examines the role of PYK2 in adhesion-mediated signaling and osteoclast function, using PYK2 antisense. We produced a recombinant adenovirus containing a 300-base pair reversed 5'-coding region of PYK2 and used full-length PYK2 as a control. Murine osteoclast-like cells or their mononuclear precursors were generated in a co-culture of bone marrow and osteoblasts. Infection with antisense adenovirus significantly reduced the expression of endogenous PYK2 protein relative to uninfected cells or to cells infected with sense PYK2 and caused: 1) a reduction in osteoclast formation in vitro; 2) inhibition of cell spreading and of actin ring formation in osteoclasts plated on glass or bone and of attachment and spreading of osteoclast precursors plated on vitronectin; 3) inhibition of bone resorption in vitro; 4) marked reduction in p130(Cas) tyrosine phosphorylation; and 5) no change in alpha(v)beta(3) integrin expression or c-Src tyrosine phosphorylation. Taken together, these findings support the hypothesis that PYK2 plays a central role in the adhesion-dependent cytoskeletal organization and sealing zone formation required for osteoclastic bone resorption.