1,25(OH)2D3 regulates protein kinase C activity through two phospholipid-dependent pathways involving phospholipase A2 and phospholipase C in growth zone chondrocytes

Small molecule compounds promote the proliferation of chondrocytes and chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells in cartilage tissue engineering

The application of tissue engineering to generate cartilage is limited because of low proliferative ability and unstable phenotype of chondrocytes. The sources of cartilage seed cells are mainly chondrocytes and stem cells. A variety of methods have been used to obtain large numbers of chondrocytes, including increasing chondrocyte proliferation and stem cell chondrogenic differentiation via cytokines, genes, and proteins. Natural or synthetic small molecule compounds can provide a simple and effective method to promote chondrocyte proliferation, maintain a stable chondrocyte phenotype, and promote stem cell chondrogenic differentiation. Therefore, the study of small molecule compounds is of great importance for cartilage tissue engineering. Herein, we review a series of small molecule compounds and their mechanisms that can promote chondrocyte proliferation, maintain chondrocyte phenotype, or induce stem cell chondrogenesis. The studies in this field represent significant contributions to the research in cartilage tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Wide-Range Effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on Group 4A Phospholipases Is Related to Nuclear Factor κ-B and Phospholipase-A2 Activating Protein Activity in Mast Cells

INTRODUCTION

Phospholipases are enzymes that occur in many types of human cells, including mast cells, and play an important role in the molecular background of asthma pathogenesis, and the development of inflammation NF-κB activities that affect numerous biological processes has been reported in many inflammatory diseases including asthma. Vitamin D is a widely studied factor that affects many diseases, including asthma. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on regulation of chosen phospholipase-A2 (PLA2) expression-selected inflammation mediators.

METHODS

LUVA mast cells were stimulated with 1,25(OH)2D3, and inhibitors of NF-κB p65 and ubiquitination. Expression analysis of phospholipases (PLA2G5, PLA2G10, PLA2G12, PLA2G15, PLA2G4A, PLA2G4B, PLA2G4C, PLAA, NF-κB p65, and UBC) was done utilizing real-time PCR and Western blot. Eicosanoid (LTC4, LXA4, 15[S]-HETE, and PGE2) levels and sPLA2 were also measured.

RESULTS

We found that 1,25(OH)2D3 decreased the expression of PLA2G5, PLA2G15, PLA2G5,UBC, and NF-κB p65 but increased expression of PLAA and PLA2G4C (p < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of PLA2G5 and PLA2G15 decreased after inhibition of NF-κB p65 and UBC. Increased levels of released LXA4 and 15(S)-HETE, decreased levels of LTC4, and sPLA2s enzymatic activity in response to 1,25(OH)2D3 were also observed. Additionally, NF-κB p65 inhibition led to an increase in the LXA4 concentration.

CONCLUSION

Future investigations will be needed to further clarify the role of 1,25(OH)2D3 in the context of asthma and the inflammatory process; however, these results confirm a variety of effects which can be caused by this vitamin. 1,25(OH)2D3-mediated action may result in the development of new therapeutic strategies for asthma treatment.

The Essentiality of Arachidonic Acid in Infant Development

Arachidonic acid (ARA, 20:4n-6) is an n-6 polyunsaturated 20-carbon fatty acid formed by the biosynthesis from linoleic acid (LA, 18:2n-6). This review considers the essential role that ARA plays in infant development. ARA is always present in human milk at a relatively fixed level and is accumulated in tissues throughout the body where it serves several important functions. Without the provision of preformed ARA in human milk or infant formula the growing infant cannot maintain ARA levels from synthetic pathways alone that are sufficient to meet metabolic demand. During late infancy and early childhood the amount of dietary ARA provided by solid foods is low. ARA serves as a precursor to leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and thromboxanes, collectively known as eicosanoids which are important for immunity and immune response. There is strong evidence based on animal and human studies that ARA is critical for infant growth, brain development, and health. These studies also demonstrate the importance of balancing the amounts of ARA and DHA as too much DHA may suppress the benefits provided by ARA. Both ARA and DHA have been added to infant formulas and follow-on formulas for more than two decades. The amounts and ratios of ARA and DHA needed in infant formula are discussed based on an in depth review of the available scientific evidence.

A review of 1α,25(OH)2D3 dependent Pdia3 receptor complex components in Wnt5a non-canonical pathway signaling

Wnt5a and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3] regulate endochondral ossification. 1α,25(OH)2D3 initiates its calcium-dependent effects via its membrane-associated receptor, protein disulfide isomerase A3 (Pdia3). 1α,25(OH)2D3 binding to Pdia3 triggers the interaction between Pdia3 and phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-activating protein (PLAA), resulting in downstream activation of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), PLA2, and protein kinase C (PKC). Wnt5a initiates its calcium-dependent effects via binding its receptors Frizzled2 (FZD2) and Frizzled5 (FZD5) and receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 2 (ROR2), activating intracellular calcium release and stimulating PKC and CaMKII. Recent efforts to determine the inter-relation between Wnt5a and 1α,25(OH)2D3 signaling pathways have demonstrated that Wnt5a signals through a CaMKII/PLA2/PGE2/PKC cascade in chondrocytes and osteoblasts in which the components of the Pdia3 receptor complex were required. Furthermore, ROR2, but not FZD2 or FZD5, was required to mediate the calcium-dependent actions of 1α,25(OH)2D3. This review provides evidence that 1α,25(OH)2D3 and Wnt5a mediate their calcium-dependent pathways via similar receptor components and proposes that these pathways may interact since they are competing for the same receptor complex components.

Membrane-mediated actions of 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3: a review of the roles of phospholipase A2 activating protein and Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II

The secosteroid 1α,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3] acts on cells via classical steroid hormone receptor-mediated gene transcription and by initiating rapid membrane-mediated signaling pathways. In its membrane-initiated pathway, after 1α,25(OH)2D3 interacts with protein disulfide isomerase, family A, member 3 (Pdia3) in caveolae, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and protein kinase C (PKC) are activated. Recent efforts to determine the signaling proteins involved in the 1α,25(OH)2D3 signal from Pdia3 to PLA2 have indicated that phospholipase A2 activating protein (PLAA) and Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) are required. PLAA is located in caveolae, where it interacts with Pdia3 and caveolin-1 (Cav-1) to initiate rapid signaling via CaMKII, activating PLA2, leading to activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and PKC-dependent responses.

Membrane actions of 1α,25(OH)2D3 are mediated by Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in bone and cartilage cells

1α,25(OH)2D3 regulates osteoblasts and chondrocytes via its membrane-associated receptor, protein disulfide isomerase A3 (Pdia3) in caveolae. 1α,25(OH)2D3 binding to Pdia3 leads to phospholipase-A2 (PLA2)-activating protein (PLAA) activation, stimulating cytosolic PLA2 and resulting in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release and PKCα activation, subsequently stimulating differentiation. However, how PLAA transmits the signal to cPLA2 is unknown. Ca(2+)/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activation is required for PLA2 activation in vascular smooth muscle cells, suggesting a similar role in 1α,25(OH)2D3-dependent signaling. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the roles of CaM and CaMKII as mediators of 1α,25(OH)2D3-stimulated PLAA-dependent activation of cPLA2 and PKCα, and downstream biological effects. The results indicated that 1α,25(OH)2D3 and PLAA-peptide increased CaMKII activity within 9 min. Silencing Cav-1, Pdia3 or Plaa in osteoblasts suppressed this effect. Similarly, antibodies against Plaa or Pdia3 blocked 1α,25(OH)2D3-dependent CaMKII. Caveolae disruption abolished activation of CaMKII by 1α,25(OH)2D3 or PLAA. CaMKII-specific and CaM-specific inhibitors reduced cPLA2 and PKC activities, PGE2 release and osteoblast maturation markers in response to 1α,25(OH)2D3. Camk2a-silenced but not Camk2b-silenced osteoblasts showed comparable effects. Immunoprecipitation showed increased interaction of CaM and PLAA in response to 1α,25(OH)2D3. The results indicate that membrane actions of 1α,25(OH)2D3 via Pdia3 triggered the interaction between PLAA and CaM, leading to dissociation of CaM from caveolae, activation of CaMKII, and downstream PLA2 activation, and suggest that CaMKII plays a major role in membrane-mediated actions of 1α,25(OH)2D3.

Signaling components of the 1α,25(OH)2D3-dependent Pdia3 receptor complex are required for Wnt5a calcium-dependent signaling

Wnt5a and 1α,25(OH)2D3 are important regulators of endochondral ossification. In osteoblasts and growth plate chondrocytes, 1α,25(OH)2D3 initiates rapid effects via its membrane-associated receptor protein disulfide isomerase A3 (Pdia3) in caveolae, activating phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-activating protein (PLAA), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), and PLA2, resulting in protein kinase C (PKC) activation. Wnt5a initiates its calcium-dependent effects via intracellular calcium release, activating PKC and CaMKII. We investigated the requirement for components of the Pdia3 receptor complex in Wnt5a calcium-dependent signaling. We determined that Wnt5a signals through a CaMKII/PLA2/PGE2/PKC cascade. Silencing or blocking Pdia3, PLAA, or vitamin D receptor (VDR), and inhibition of calmodulin (CaM), CaMKII, or PLA2 inhibited Wnt5a-induced PKC activity. Wnt5a activated PKC in caveolin-1-silenced cells, but methyl-beta-cyclodextrin reduced its stimulatory effect. 1α,25(OH)2D3 reduced stimulatory effects of Wnt5a on PKC in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, Wnt5a had a biphasic effect on 1α,25(OH)2D3-stimulated PKC activation; 50ng/ml Wnt5a caused a 2-fold increase in 1α,25(OH)2D3-stimulated PKC but higher Wnt5a concentrations reduced 1α,25(OH)2D3-stimulated PKC activation. Western blots showed that Wnt receptors Frizzled2 (FZD2) and Frizzled5 (FZD5), and receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 2 (ROR2) were localized to caveolae. Blocking ROR2, but not FZD2 or FZD5, abolished the stimulatory effects of 1α,25(OH)2D3 on PKC and CaMKII. 1α,25(OH)2D3 membrane receptor complex components (Pdia3, PLAA, caveolin-1, CaM) interacted with Wnt5a receptors/co-receptors (ROR2, FZD2, FZD5) in immunoprecipitation studies, interactions that changed with either 1α,25(OH)2D3 or Wnt5a treatment. This study demonstrates that 1α,25(OH)2D3 and Wnt5a mediate their effects via similar receptor components and suggests that these pathways may interact.

Phospholipases of mineralization competent cells and matrix vesicles: roles in physiological and pathological mineralizations

The present review aims to systematically and critically analyze the current knowledge on phospholipases and their role in physiological and pathological mineralization undertaken by mineralization competent cells. Cellular lipid metabolism plays an important role in biological mineralization. The physiological mechanisms of mineralization are likely to take place in tissues other than in bones and teeth under specific pathological conditions. For instance, vascular calcification in arteries of patients with renal failure, diabetes mellitus or atherosclerosis recapitulates the mechanisms of bone formation. Osteoporosis—a bone resorbing disease—and rheumatoid arthritis originating from the inflammation in the synovium are also affected by cellular lipid metabolism. The focus is on the lipid metabolism due to the effects of dietary lipids on bone health. These and other phenomena indicate that phospholipases may participate in bone remodelling as evidenced by their expression in smooth muscle cells, in bone forming osteoblasts, chondrocytes and in bone resorbing osteoclasts. Among various enzymes involved, phospholipases A₁ or A₂, phospholipase C, phospholipase D, autotaxin and sphingomyelinase are engaged in membrane lipid remodelling during early stages of mineralization and cell maturation in mineralization-competent cells. Numerous experimental evidences suggested that phospholipases exert their action at various stages of mineralization by affecting intracellular signaling and cell differentiation. The lipid metabolites—such as arachidonic acid, lysophospholipids, and sphingosine-1-phosphate are involved in cell signaling and inflammation reactions. Phospholipases are also important members of the cellular machinery engaged in matrix vesicle (MV) biogenesis and exocytosis. They may favour mineral formation inside MVs, may catalyse MV membrane breakdown necessary for the release of mineral deposits into extracellular matrix (ECM), or participate in hydrolysis of ECM. The biological functions of phospholipases are discussed from the perspective of animal and cellular knockout models, as well as disease implications, development of potent inhibitors and therapeutic interventions.

Rapid membrane responses to dihydrotestosterone are sex dependent in growth plate chondrocytes

Sex steroids are important regulators for longitudinal growth, bone mass accrual, and sexual dimorphism of the skeleton. 17β-Estradiol regulates proliferation and differentiation of female chondrocytes via a membrane-associated signaling pathway in addition to its estrogen receptor (ER) mediated effects. In contrast, testosterone does not elicit a similar membrane response, either in male or female cells. Whereas female rat growth plate chondrocytes convert testosterone to 17β-estradiol, male chondrocytes produce 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Previously DHT was found to mediate sex-specific effects of testosterone in male cells, but it is not known if a membrane-signaling pathway is involved. In this study, we hypothesized that DHT can induce sex-specific rapid membrane effects similar to other steroid hormones. Confluent cultures of chondrocytes isolated from resting zones of growth plates of both male and female rats were treated with 10(-10)-10(-7)M testosterone or DHT for 3, 9, 90 and 270min and protein kinase C (PKC) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activities were measured. To examine potential signaling pathways involved in PKC activation, male chondrocytes were treated with 10(-7)M DHT for 9min in the presence or absence of the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U73122, the secretory PLA2 inhibitor quinacrine or the cytosolic PLA2 inhibitor AACOCF3; the Gαi inhibitor pertussis toxin (PTX) or Gαs activator cholera toxin (CTX), and the general G-protein inhibitor GDPβS; thapsigargin, an inhibitor of a Ca-ATPase pump in the endoplasmic reticulum; verapamil and nifedipine, inhibitors of specific L type Ca2+ channels on the cell membrane; and cyproterone acetate (CPA), which is an inhibitor of the classical androgen receptor (AR); as well as the transcription inhibitor actinomycin D, or the translation inhibitor cycloheximide. DHT induced a dose-dependent increase in PKC and PLA2 activity in male cells with the highest increase at 10(-7)M DHT (p<0.05), whereas testosterone had no effect. PKC activity was augmented at 9 and 90 min, and then decreased to baseline at 270min. Neither testosterone nor DHT affected PKC in female cells. U73122, quinacrine, and AACOCF3 inhibited DHT-induced activation of PKC. DHT treatment for 9 min had no effect in [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation in quiescent confluent cultures but caused a dose dependent increase in alkaline phosphatase specific activity. Inhibition of PLC reduced the response of to DHT in a dose dependent manner, indicating that PLC is involved. In conclusion, our study indicates that DHT, but not testosterone, has sex-specific rapid membrane effects in male growth plate chondrocytes involving PLC and PLA2-mediated PKC signaling pathways. Together with previous observations showing that male cells convert testosterone to DHT, these results suggest that DHT might act in the membrane through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism.

Phospholipase A2 activating protein is required for 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 dependent rapid activation of protein kinase C via Pdia3

1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25D3) regulates musculoskeletal cells via two different mechanisms: vitamin D receptor (VDR)-dependent gene transcription and rapid membrane-signaling via VDR as well as protein disulfide isomerase, family A, member 3 (Pdia3). In chondrocytes from the costochondral cartilage growth zone (GC), ligand binding to Pdia3 causes a rapid increase in phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) activity leading to release of arachidonic acid and formation of lysophospholipid (LPL). LPL activates phospholipase C (PLC), and resulting inositol trisphosphate (IP(3)) and diacylglycerol contribute to PKCα activation and downstream activation of ERK1/2. PLA(2) activating protein (PLAA) is increased in the growth zone of rat growth plates suggesting that it mediates the 1,25D3-dependent pathway. This study examined the role of PLAA in mediating 1,25D3-dependent PKC activation using GC cells and MC3T3-E1 wild-type and PLAA-silenced osteoblasts as models. PLAA, Pdia3, and caveolin-1 (Cav-1) were detected in plasma membranes and caveolae of GC and MC3T3-E1 cells. Pdia3-immunoprecipitated samples were positive for PLAA only after 1,25D3 treatment. Cav-1 was detected when immunoprecipitated with anti-Pdia3 and anti-PLAA in both vehicle and 1,25D3 treated cells. These observations were confirmed by immunohistochemistry. 1,25D3 failed to activate PLA(2) and PKC or cause PGE(2) release in PLAA-silenced cells. PLAA-antibody successfully blocked the PLAA protein and consequently suppressed PKC activity in GC and MC3T3-E1 cells. Crosslinking studies confirmed the localization of PLAA on the extracellular face on the plasma membrane in untreated MC3T3-E1 cells. Taken together, our results suggest that PLAA is an important mediator of 1α,25(OH)(2)D(3) rapid membrane mediated signaling. 1α,25(OH)(2)D(3) likely causes conformational changes bringing Pdia3 into proximity with PLAA, and aiding in transducing the signal from caveolae to the plasma membrane.

Regulation of growth plate chondrocytes by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 requires caveolae and caveolin-1

We examined the role of caveolae and caveolin-1 in the mechanism of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) action in growth plate chondrocytes. We found that caveolae are required for rapid 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent PKC signaling, and caveolin-1 must be present based on studies using chondrocytes from Cav-1(-/-) mice.

INTRODUCTION

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)] regulates endochondral ossification in part through membrane-associated mechanisms, including protein kinase C (PKC) signaling activated by a membrane-associated 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-binding protein, ERp60. We tested the hypothesis that caveolae are required for 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) action and play an important role in regulating chondrocyte biology and growth plate physiology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat costochondral chondrocytes were examined for caveolae by transmission electron microscopy of cultured cells and of cells in situ. Western blots and confocal microscopy were used to detect caveolae proteins including caveolin-1 (Cav-1) and 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) receptors. Caveolae cholesterol was depleted with beta-cyclodextrin (CD) and effects of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC, DNA synthesis, alkaline phosphatase, and proteoglycan production determined. Chondrocytes from Cav-1(-/-) and C57BL/6 wildtype mice were also treated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Epiphyses and costochondral junctions of 8-week-old male Cav-1(-/-) and wildtype mice (N = 8) were compared by histomorphometry and microCT. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Bonferroni for posthoc comparisons.

RESULTS

Growth zone chondrocytes had caveolae and Cav-1, -2, and -3. Resting zone chondrocytes, which do not exhibit a rapid 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent increase in PKC activity, also had these caveolins, but caveolae were larger and fewer in number. ERp60 but not VDR co-localized with Cav-1 in plasma membranes and in lipid rafts. CD-treatment blocked 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) effects on all parameters tested. The Cav-1(-/-) cells did not respond to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), although 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) increased PKC, alkaline phosphatase, and [(35)S]-sulfate incorporation in wildtype C57BL/6 cells. Histology and microCT showed that Cav-1(-/-) growth plates were longer and had more hypertrophic cells in each column. Growth plate changes were reflected in the metaphysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The membrane-mediated effects of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) require caveolae and Cav-1, and Cav-1 deficiency results in altered growth plate physiology.

Modulation of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-membrane associated, rapid response steroid binding protein expression in mouse odontoblasts by 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3

The rapid, nongenomic effects of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 have been related to a 1,25D3-membrane associated, rapid response steroid binding protein or 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp, with a molecular weight of 65 kDa, in several tissues and species. Currently, no information is available concerning the nongenomic responses to 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 in dental tissues. In order to investigate the expression of 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp in dental cells, in the presence or absence of 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3, we have used rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed against the N-terminus of the 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp (Ab099) that recognizes the 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 binding protein in chick intestinal basolateral membranes and a mouse odontoblast-like cell line (MO6-G3). Western blotting and flow cytometric analyses with Ab099 specifically detected 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp in MO6-G3 cells. Moreover, 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp was up-regulated, in vivo, in differentiated dental cells. Electron microscopic analysis confirmed the plasma membrane localization of this binding protein and also showed its intracellular presence. Incubation of MO6-G3 cells with different doses of 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 for 36 h resulted in an inhibition of 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp expression with a maximal effect at 50 nM steroid. In addition, the culture media of MO6-G3 cells contains immunoreactive 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp. Immunogold positive membrane vesicle-like structures are present in the extracellular matrix of MO6-G3 cells. Altogether, these results indicate that the 1,25D3-[MARRS]bp expression in MO6-G3 cells is modulated by 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3. In conclusion, this 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 binding protein could play an important role in the rapid, nongenomic responses to 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 in dental cells.

Phospholipase A2 activating protein (PLAA) is required for 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 signaling in growth plate chondrocytes

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is pivotal in the rapid membrane-mediated actions of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2D3]. Microarray analysis indicated that PLA2 activating protein (PLAA) mRNA is upregulated 6-fold before rat growth plate cells exhibit 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) increases, suggesting that it plays an important role in 1alpha,25(OH)2D3's mechanism of action. PLAA mRNA was confirmed in 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-responsive growth zone (prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic cell zones) chondrocytes by RT-PCR and Northern blot in vitro and by in situ hybridization in vivo. PLAA protein was shown by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. PLAAs role in 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 signaling was evaluated in growth zone cell cultures using PLAA peptide. Arachidonic acid release was increased as was PLA2-specific activity in plasma membranes and matrix vesicles. PKCalpha, but not PKCbeta, PKCepsilon, or PKCzeta, was increased. PLAAs effect was comparable to that of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and was additive with 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. PLA2 inhibitors quinacrine and AACOCF3, and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin blocked the effect of PLAA peptide on PKC, indicating arachidonic acid and its metabolites were involved. This was confirmed using exogenous arachidonic acid. Prostaglandin acted via EP1 based on inhibition by SC19220 and not via EP2 since AH6809 had no effect. Like 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, PLAA peptide also increased activity of phospholipase C-specific activity via beta-1 and beta-3 isoforms, but not delta-1 or gamma-1; the effect of PLAA was via lysophospholipid but not via arachidonic acid. PLAA peptide decreased [3H]-thymidine incorporation to 50% of the decrease caused by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. In contrast, PLAA peptide increased alkaline phosphatase-specific activity and proteoglycan production in a manner similar to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. This indicates that PLAA is a specific activator of PLA2 in growth plate chondrocytes, and suggests that it mediates the membrane effect of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, thereby modulating physiological response.

Evidence that annexin II Is not a putative membrane receptor for 1?,25(OH)2-vitamin D3

The seco-steroid hormone 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) (1,25-D(3)) is known to generate biological responses via both genomic and non-genomic rapid signal transduction pathways. The calcium regulated annexin II/p11 heterotetramer (AII(2)/p11(2)] was proposed by Baran and co-authors to be the membrane receptor responsible for mediating non-genomic, rapid actions of 1,25-D(3), based on ligand affinity labeling, competition, and saturation analysis experiments. Given the cytosolic presence of both the monomeric and heterotetrameric form of AII and their functional regulation by intracellular calcium concentrations, which are known to be affected by 1,25-D(3) rapid, non-genomic activities, we investigated in vitro the affinity of [(3)H]1,25-D(3) for the AII monomer and AII(2)/p11(2) in the absence and presence of calcium using saturation analysis and gel-filtration chromatography. Using two different techniques for separating bound from free ligand (perchlorate and hydroxylapatite (HAP)) over a series of 30 experiments, no evidence for specific binding of [(3)H]1,25-D(3) was obtained with or without the presence of 700 nM exogenous calcium, using either the AII monomer or AII(2)/p11(2). However saturable binding of [(3)H]1,25-D(3) to the lipid raft/caveolae enriched rat intestinal fraction was consistently observed (K(d) = 3.0 nM; B(max) = 45 fmols/mg total protein). AII was detected in lipid raft/caveolae enriched fractions from rat and mouse intestine and ROS 17/2.8 and NB4 cells by Western blot, but incubation in the presence of exogenous calcium did not ablate 1,25-D(3) binding as reported by Baran et al. Our results suggest that AII does not bind 1,25-D(3) in a physiologically relevant manner; however, recent studies linking AII(2)/p11(2) phosphorylation to vesicle fusion and its calcium regulated localization may make AII a possible down-stream substrate for 1,25-D(3) induced rapid cellular effects.

Membrane actions of vitamin D metabolites 1?,25(OH)2D3 and 24R,25(OH)2D3 are retained in growth plate cartilage cells from vitamin D receptor knockout mice

1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulates rat growth plate chondrocytes via nuclear vitamin D receptor (1,25-nVDR) and membrane VDR (1,25-mVDR) mechanisms. To assess the relationship between the receptors, we examined the membrane response to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in costochondral cartilage cells from wild type VDR(+/+) and VDR(-/-) mice, the latter lacking the 1,25-nVDR and exhibiting type II rickets and alopecia. Methods were developed for isolation and culture of cells from the resting zone (RC) and growth zone (GC, prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic zones) of the costochondral cartilages from wild type and homozygous knockout mice. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect on [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation in VDR(-/-) GC cells, but it increased [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation in VDR(+/+) cells. Proteoglycan production was increased in cultures of both VDR(-/-) and VDR(+/+) cells, based on [(35)S]-sulfate incorporation. These effects were partially blocked by chelerythrine, which is a specific inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), indicating that PKC-signaling was involved. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) caused a 10-fold increase in PKC specific activity in VDR(-/-), and VDR(+/+) GC cells as early as 1 min, supporting this hypothesis. In contrast, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect on PKC activity in RC cells isolated from VDR(-/-) or VDR(+/+) mice and neither 1beta,25(OH)(2)D(3) nor 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) affected PKC in GC cells from these mice. Phospholipase C (PLC) activity was also increased within 1 min in GC chondrocyte cultures treated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). As noted previously for rat growth plate chondrocytes, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) mediated its increases in PKC and PLC activities in the VDR(-/-) GC cells through activation of phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)). These responses to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) were blocked by antibodies to 1,25-MARRS, which is a [(3)H]-1,25(OH)(2)D(3) binding protein identified in chick enterocytes. 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulated PKC in VDR(-/-) and VDR(+/+) RC cells. Wild type RC cells responded to 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) with an increase in PKC, whereas treatment of RC cells from mice lacking a functional 1,25-nVDR caused a time-dependent decrease in PKC between 6 and 9 min. 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) dependent PKC was mediated by phospholipase D, but not by PLC, as noted previously for rat RC cells treated with 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3). These results provide definitive evidence that there are two distinct receptors to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent regulation of DNA synthesis in GC cells requires the 1,25-nVDR, although other physiological responses to the vitamin D metabolite, such as proteoglycan sulfation, involve regulation via the 1,25-mVDR.

Dominant negative protein kinase Cbeta improves 1alpha, 25-dihydroxy vitamin D3-induced insulin resistance

1alpha,25-Dihydroxy vitamin D3 (1,25D3) activates conventional PKC and may subsequently lead to insulin resistance. Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that pretreatment with 10 nM-10 microM 1,25D3 dose-responsively suppressed insulin-induced glucose. To assess PKC(beta)-mediated inhibition of insulin-induced glucose uptake in rat adipocytes, we preincubated with Go6976 and LY379196, conventional PKC inhibitors, and found they abolished the 1,25D3-mediated inhibitory effect on insulin-induced 2-deoxyglucose (DOG) uptake. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of 1,25D3 on insulin-induced DOG uptake was abrogated in adipocytes overexpressed with dominant negative PKC(beta), but not in those overexpressed with wild type PKC(beta). These results suggest that 1,25D3 reduces insulin-induced glucose uptake via activation of PKC(beta) in rat adipocytes.

Differential regulation of growth plate chondrocytes by 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 and 24R,25-(OH)2D3 involves cell-maturation-specific membrane-receptor-activated phospholipid metabolism

This review discusses the regulation of growth plate chondrocytes by vitamin D(3). Over the past ten years, our understanding of how two vitamin D metabolites, 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3), exert their effects on endochondral ossification has undergone considerable advances through the use of cell biology and signal transduction methodologies. These studies have shown that each metabolite affects a primary target cell within the endochondral developmental lineage. 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) affects primarily growth zone cells, and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) affects primarily resting zone cells. In addition, 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) initiates a differentiation cascade that results in down-regulation of responsiveness to 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and up-regulation of responsiveness to 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3). 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates growth zone chondrocytes both through the nuclear vitamin D receptor, and through a membrane-associated receptor that mediates its effects via a protein kinase C (PKC) signal transduction pathway. PKCalpha is increased via a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PLC)-dependent mechanism, as well as through the stimulation of phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) activity. Arachidonic acid and its downstream metabolite prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) also modulate cell response to 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3). In contrast, 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects on resting zone cells through a separate, membrane-associated receptor that also involves PKC pathways. PKCalpha is increased via a phospholipase D (PLD)-mediated mechanism, as well as through inhibition of the PLA(2) pathway. The target-cell-specific effects of each metabolite are also seen in the regulation of matrix vesicles by vitamin D(3). However, the PKC isoform involved is PKCzeta, and its activity is inhibited, providing a mechanism for differential autocrine regulation of the cell and events in the matrix by these two vitamin D(3) metabolites.

1alpha,25(OH)2D3 causes a rapid increase in phosphatidylinositol-specific PLC-beta activity via phospholipase A2-dependent production of lysophospholipid

1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activates protein kinase C (PKC) in rat growth plate chondrocytes via mechanisms involving phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) and phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)). The purpose of this study was to determine if 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activates PI-PLC directly or through a PLA(2)-dependent mechanism. We determined which PLC isoforms are present in the growth plate chondrocytes, and determined which isoform(s) of PLC is(are) regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Inhibitors and activators of PLA(2) were used to assess the inter-relationship between these two phospholipid-signaling pathways. PI-PLC activity in lysates of prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic zone (growth zone) cells that were incubated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), was increased within 30s with peak activity at 1-3 min. PI-PLC activity in resting zone cells was unaffected by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). 1beta,25(OH)(2)D(3), 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3), actinomycin D and cycloheximide had no effect on PLC in lysates of growth zone cells. Thus, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulation of PI-PLC enzyme activity is stereospecific, cell maturation-dependent, and nongenomic. PLA(2)-activation (mastoparan or melittin) increased PI-PLC activity to the same extent as 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3); PLA(2)-inhibition (quinacrine, oleyloxyethylphosphorylcholine (OEPC), or AACOCF(3)) reduced the effect of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Neither arachidonic acid (AA) nor its metabolites affected PI-PLC. In contrast, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) activated PI-PLC (LPE>LPC). 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PI-PLC and PKC activities via Gq; GDPbetaS inhibited activity, but pertussis toxin did not. RT-PCR showed that the cells express PLC-beta1a, PLC-beta1b, PLC-beta3 and PLC-gamma1 mRNA. Antibodies to PLC-beta1 and PLC-beta3 blocked the 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) effect; antibodies to PLC-delta and PLC-gamma did not. Thus, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulates PLC-beta through PLA(2)-dependent production of lysophospholipid.

Discondroplasia tibial: mecanismos de lesão e controle

A discondroplasia tibial (DT) é atribuída a uma assincronia no processo de diferenciação dos condrócitos, levando à formação de uma camada de condrócitos pré-hipertróficos e de uma cartilagem na tíbia proximal que não é calcificada, mas é resistente à invasão vascular. Além disso, tem sido proposto que, na discondroplasia tíbial, a etapa final do processo de calcificação não ocorre devido ao fato de que os efetores de alguns genes, relacionados com o mecanismo de calcificação do disco de crescimento podem apresentar algumas de suas propriedades químicas ou biológicas alteradas e/ou não serem expressos. Nesse sentido, a compreensão do mecanismo de ação e o papel das biomoléculas e dos minerais relacionados com a discondroplasia tibial poderão contribuir para o conhecimento de doenças do tecido ósseo e estabelecer estratégias de prevenção e tratamento.

Update on biological actions of 1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (rapid effects) and 24R,25(OH)2-vitamin D3

All biologic responses to vitamin D are now known to arise as a consequence of the metabolism of this seco-steroid into its two principal biologically active metabolites 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) (1ALPHA;,25(OH)(2)D(3)) and 24R,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) (24R,25(OH)(2)D(3)). 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) is the dominant metabolite and produces a wide array of biological responses via interacting both with the classical vitamin D nuclear receptor (VDR(nuc)) that regulates gene transcription in over 30 target organs and with a putative cell membrane receptor (VDR(mem1,25)) that mediates rapid (within seconds to minutes) biological responses. Ligand occupancy of VDR(mem1,25) is linked to signal transduction systems that can mediate the opening of Ca(2+) and chloride voltage gated channels as well as activation of MAP-kinase. MAP-kinase activation in some cells containing VDR(mem1,25)+VDR(nuc) then results in "cross-talk" from VDR(mem1,25) to VDR(nuc) which modulates transactivation of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) responsive gene promoters. The 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) metabolite has been shown to be an essential hormone for the process of bone fracture healing. The activity of the enzyme responsible for the production of 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3), the renal 25(OH)D-24-hydroxylase, becomes elevated within 4-11 days after imposition of a tibial fracture, thereby increasing the blood concentrations of 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) by threefold. The 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) likely initiates its biological responses via binding to the ligand binding domain of a second cell membrane receptor, the VDR(mem24,25), which is stereospecific for 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) in comparison with 24S,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). This report summarizes the status of several current research frontiers in this arena of the vitamin D endocrine system.

1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) and 24R,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) modulate growth plate chondrocyte physiology via protein kinase C-dependent phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase

Membrane-mediated increases in protein kinase C (PKC) activity and PKC-dependent physiological responses of growth plate chondrocytes to vitamin D metabolites depend on the state of endochondral maturation; 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)] regulates growth zone (GC) cells, whereas 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates resting zone (RC) cells. Different mechanisms, including protein kinase A signaling, mediate the effects of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC, suggesting that different mechanisms may also regulate any MAPK involvement in the physiological responses. This study used confluent cultures of rat costochondral chondrocytes as a model. 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated MAPK specific activity in GC in a time- and dose-dependent manner, evident within 9 min. 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated MAPK in RC; increases were dose dependent, occurred after 9 min, and were greatest at 90 min. In both cells the effect was due to ERK1/2 activation (p42 > p44 in GC; p42 = p44 in RC). MAPK activation was dependent on PKC, but not protein kinase A. The effect of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) required phospholipase C, and the effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) required phospholipase D. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase activity reduced the effect of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on MAPK in GC and enhanced the effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) in RC. Based on MAPK inhibition with PD98059, ERK1/2 MAPK mediated the effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on [(3)H]thymidine incorporation and [(35)S]sulfate incorporation by RC, but only partially mediated the effect of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on GC. ERK1/2 was not involved in the regulation of alkaline phosphatase specific activity by either metabolite. This paper supports the hypothesis that 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates the physiology of GC via rapid membrane-mediated signaling pathways, and some, but not all, of the response to 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) is via the ERK family of MAPKs. In contrast, 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects on RC via PKC-dependent MAPK. Whereas 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) increases MAPK activity via phospholipase C and increased prostaglandin production, 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) increases MAPK via phospholipase D and decreased prostaglandin production. The cell specificity, metabolite stereospecificity, and the dependence on PKC argue for the participation of membrane receptors for 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) in the regulation of ERK1/2 in the growth plate.

Transforming growth factor-beta1 regulation of growth zone chondrocytes is mediated by multiple interacting pathways

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) affects growth plate chondrocytes through Smad-mediated mechanisms and has been shown to increase protein kinase C (PKC). This study determined if PKC mediates the physiological response of rat costochondral growth zone (GC) chondrocytes to TGF-beta1; if the physiological response occurs via type II or type III TGF-beta receptors, and, if so, which receptor mediates the increase in PKC; and the signal transduction pathways involved. Treatment of confluent GC cells with TGF-beta1 stimulated [(3)H]thymidine and [(35)S]sulfate incorporation as well as alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) and PKC specific activities. Inhibition of PKC with chelerythrine, staurosporine, or H-7 caused a dose-dependent decrease in these parameters, indicating that PKC signaling was involved. TGF-beta1-dependent PKC and the physiological response of GC cells to TGF-beta1 was reversed by anti-type II TGF-beta receptor antibody and soluble type II TGF-beta receptor, showing that TGF-beta1 mediates these effects through the type II receptor. The increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation and ALPase specific activity were also regulated by protein kinase A (PKA) signaling, since the effects of TGF-beta1 were partially blocked by the PKA inhibitor H-8. The mechanism of TGF-beta1 activation of PKC is through phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) and not through phospholipase C (PLC). Arachidonic acid increased PKC in control cultures and was additive with TGF-beta1. Prostanoids are required, as indomethacin blocked the effect of TGF-beta1, and Cox-1, but not Cox-2, is involved. TGF-beta1 stimulates prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production and exogenous PGE(2) stimulates PKC, but not as much as TGF-beta1, suggesting that PGE(2) is not sufficient for all of the prostaglandin effect. In contrast, TGF-beta1 was not regulated by diacylglycerol; neither dioctanoylglycerol (DOG) nor inhibition of diacylglycerol kinase with R59022 had an effect. G-proteins mediate TGF-beta1 signaling at different levels in the cascade. TGF-beta1-dependent increases in PGE(2) levels and PKC were augmented by the G protein activator GTP gamma S, whereas inhibition of G-protein activity via GDP beta S, pertussis toxin, or cholera toxin blocked stimulation of PKC by TGF-beta1, indicating that both G(i) and G(s) are involved. Inhibition of PKA with H-8 partially blocked TGF-beta1-dependent PKC, suggesting that PKA inhibition on the physiological response was via PKA regulation of PKC signaling. This indicates that multiple interacting signaling pathways are involved: TGF-beta1 stimulates PLA(2) and prostaglandin release via the action of Cox-1 on arachidonic acid. PGE(2) activates the EP2 receptor, leading to G-protein-dependent activation of PKA. PKA signaling results in increased PKC activity and PKC signaling regulates proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis.

Membrane mediated signaling mechanisms are used differentially by metabolites of vitamin D(3) in musculoskeletal cells

1 alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) mediate their effects on chondrocytes and osteoblasts in part through increased activity of protein kinase C (PKC). For both cell types, 1 alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects primarily on more mature cells within the lineage, whereas 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects primarily on relatively immature cells. Studies using the rat costochondral cartilage growth plate as a model indicate that the two metabolites increase PKC activity by different mechanisms. In growth zone cells (prehypertrophic/upper hypertrophic cell zones), 1 alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) causes a rapid increase in PKC that does not involve new gene expression. 1 alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) binds its membrane receptor (1,25-mVDR), resulting in activation of phospholipase A(2) and the rapid release of arachidonic acid, as well as activation of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C, resulting in formation of diacylglycerol and inositol-1,4,5-tris phosphate (IP(3)). IP(3) leads to release of intracellular Ca(2+) from the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and together with diacylglycerol, the increased Ca(2+) activates PKC. PKC is then translocated to the plasma membrane, where it initiates a phosphorylation cascade, ultimately phosphorylating the extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 and -2 (ERK1/2) family of MAP kinases (MAPK). PKC increases are maximal at 9 min, and MAPK increases are maximal at 90 min in these cells. By contrast, 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) increases PKC through activation of phospholipase D in resting zone cells. Peak production of diacylglycerol via phospholipase D2 is at 90 min, as are peak increases in PKC. Some of the effect is direct on existing plasma membrane PKC, but most is due to new PKC expression; translocation is not involved. Arachidonic acid and its metabolites also play differential roles in the mechanisms, stimulating PKC in growth zone cells and inhibiting PKC in resting zone cells. 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) decreases phospholipase A(2) activity and prostaglandin production, thereby overcoming this potential inhibitory component, which may account for the delay in the PKC response. Ultimately, ERK1/2 is phosphorylated. PKC-dependent MAPK activity transduces some, but not all, of the physiological responses of each cell type to its respective vitamin D metabolite, suggesting that the membrane receptor(s) and nuclear receptor(s) may function interdependently to regulate proliferation and differentiation of musculoskeletal cells, but different pathways are involved at different stages of phenotypic maturation.

1alpha,25(OH)2D3 regulates chondrocyte matrix vesicle protein kinase C (PKC) directly via G-protein-dependent mechanisms and indirectly via incorporation of PKC during matrix vesicle biogenesis

Matrix vesicles are extracellular organelles involved in mineral formation that are regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Prior studies have shown that protein kinase C (PKC) activity is involved in mediating the effects of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in both matrix vesicles and plasma membranes. Here, we examined the regulation of matrix vesicle PKC by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) during biogenesis and after deposition in the matrix. When growth zone costochondral chondrocytes were treated for 9 min with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), PKCzeta in matrix vesicles was inhibited, while PKCalpha in plasma membranes was increased. In contrast, after treatment for 12 or 24 h, PKCzeta in matrix vesicles was increased, while PKCalpha in plasma membranes was unchanged. The effect of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) was stereospecific and metabolite-specific. Monensin blocked the increase in matrix vesicle PKC after 24 h, suggesting the secosteroid-regulated packaging of PKC. In addition, the 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) membrane vitamin D receptor (1,25-mVDR) was involved, since a specific antibody blocked the 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent changes in PKC after both long and short treatment times. In contrast, antibodies to annexin II had no effect, and there was no evidence for the presence of the nuclear VDR on Western blots. To investigate the signaling pathways involved in regulating matrix vesicle PKC activity after biosynthesis, matrix vesicles were isolated and then treated for 9 min with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in the presence and absence of specific inhibitors. Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C, phospholipase D, or G(i)/G(s) had no effect. However, inhibition of G(q) blocked the effect of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). The rapid effect of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) also involved the 1,25-mVDR. Moreover, arachidonic acid was found to stimulate PKC when added directly to isolated matrix vesicles. These results indicate that matrix vesicle PKC is regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) at three levels: 1) during matrix vesicle biogenesis; 2) through direct action on the membrane; and 3) through production of other factors such as arachidonic acid.

Tamoxifen elicits its anti-estrogen effects in growth plate chondrocytes by inhibiting protein kinase C

17 beta-Estradiol (E(2)) regulates growth plate cartilage cells via classical nuclear receptor mechanisms, as well as by direct effects on the chondrocyte membrane. These direct effects are stereospecific, causing a rapid increase in protein kinase C (PKC) specific activity, are only found in cells from female rats and are mimicked by E(2)-bovine serum albumin (BSA), which cannot penetrate the cell membrane. E(2) and E(2)-BSA stimulate alkaline phosphatase specific activity and proteoglycan sulfation in female rat costochondral cartilage cell cultures, but traditional nuclear receptors do not appear to be involved. This study examined the effect of the anti-estrogen tamoxifen on these markers of chondrocyte differentiation; the gender-specificity of tamoxifen's effect on PKC, if tamoxifen has an effect on vitamin D metabolite-stimulated PKC, which is mediated via specific membrane receptors (1,25-mVDR; 24,25-mVDR) and whether the effect of tamoxifen is mediated by nuclear estrogen receptors. Tamoxifen dose-dependently inhibited the effect of E(2)-BSA on PKC, alkaline phosphatase and proteoglycan sulfation in confluent cultures of female resting zone (RC) cells and growth zone (GC) (prehypertrophic/upper hypertrophic zones) cells, suggesting that its action is at the membrane and not cell maturation-dependent. Neither the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI 182780 nor the ER agonist diethylstilbesterol affected E(2) or E(2)-BSA-stimulated PKC in female chondrocytes. Tamoxifen also inhibited the increase in PKC activity due to 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) or 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) in growth plate cells derived from either female or male rats. Inhibition of PKC by tamoxifen may be a general property of membrane receptors involved in rapid responses to hormones.

Effect of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 and vitamin E on insulin-induced glucose uptake in rat adipocytes

Vitamin E, an antioxidant, improves insulin sensitivity through the suppression of conventional PKC in vascular smooth muscle cells. It has been reported that vitamin E reduces platelet aggregation through the suppression of PKC alpha and beta (Diabetes 47 (1998) 1494). On the other hand, 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 (1,25D3) activates conventional PKC and may subsequently cause insulin resistance. Against this background, we examined the effect of vitamin E and 1,25D3 on PKC beta and PKC zeta/lambda activities in vitro and 10 nM insulin-induced glucose uptake in rat adipocytes. In vitro PKC beta activity of adipocytes was slightly decreased by the addition of 1 microM vitamin E, but not PKC zeta/lambda activity. In contrast, a 10-1000 nM 1,25D3 dose responsively activated PKC beta activity of adipocytes (ED 50%, 10 nM), but not PKC zeta/lambda activity. Pretreatment with 1 microM vitamin E for 60 min did not improve the insulin-induced glucose uptake. On the other hand, pretreatment with a 10-1000 nM 1,25D3 dose responsively suppressed insulin-induced glucose uptake. Moreover, 1,25D3 increased membrane-associated PKC beta immunoreactivity for 60 min, but no additional increase in membrane-associated PKC beta immunoreactivity during treatment with insulin was observed. These results suggest that 1,25D3 reduces insulin-induced glucose uptake via activation of PKC beta, but not vitamin E in rat adipocytes.

Evidence for distinct membrane receptors for 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) in osteoblasts

1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exerts its effects on chondrocytes and enterocytes via nuclear receptors (1,25-nVDR) and a separate membrane receptor (1,25-mVDR) that activates protein kinase C (PKC). 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) also stimulates PKC in chondrocytes, but through other membrane mechanisms. This study examined the hypothesis that osteoblasts possess distinct membrane receptors for 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) that are involved in the activation of PKC and that receptor expression varies as a function of cell maturation state. 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PKC in well differentiated (UMR-106, MC-3T3-E1) and moderately differentiated (ROS 17/2.8) osteoblast-like cells, and in cultures of fetal rat calvarial (FRC) cells and 2T3 cells treated with rhBMP-2 to promote differentiation. 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PKC in FRC and 2T3 cultures that had not been treated to induce differentiation, and in ROS 17/2.8 cells. MG63 cells, a relatively undifferentiated osteoblast-like cell line, had no response to either metabolite. Ab99, a polyclonal antibody generated to the chick enterocyte 1,25-mVDR, but not a specific antibody to the 1,25-nVDR, inhibited response to 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3). 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) exhibited specific binding to plasma membrane preparations from cells demonstrating a PKC response to this metabolite that is typical of positive cooperativity. Western blots of these membrane proteins reacted with Ab99, and the Ab99-positive protein had an Mr of 64 kDa. There was no cross-reaction with antibodies to the C- or N-terminus of annexin II. The effect of 24,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC was stereospecific; 24S,25-(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect. These results demonstrate that response to 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) depends on osteoblast maturation state and suggest that specific and distinct membrane receptors are involved.

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 selectively translocates PKCalpha to nuclei in ROS 17/2.8 cells

We have investigated protein kinase C (PKC) regulation by 1,25-(OH)2D3 in the rat osteosarcoma cell line ROS 17/2.8 since previous reports have implicated PKC in the 1,25-(OH)2D3-mediated regulation of osteocalcin gene expression (J. Biol. Chem. 267 (1992) 12562; Endocrinology 136 (1995) 5685). Here we report that 1,25-(OH)2D3 increased PKCalpha, but not PKCbetaI, epsilon or zeta, levels in the nuclear fraction in a time-dependent manner. Unlike PMA, 1,25-(OH)2D3 did not alter the association of any of the expressed PKC isoenzymes with the plasma membrane. Treatment with 20 nM 1,25-(OH)2D3 for 15 min, 30 min, 1 h and 24 h increased PKCalpha levels in the nuclear fraction by 2.3- to 2.6-fold. Nuclear PKCalpha expression was also increased with doses of 1,25-(OH)2D3 as low as a 0.05 nM. 1,25-(OH)2D3-mediated stabilization of osteocalcin mRNA (Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 332 (1996) 142) was inhibited with bisindolylmaleimide treatment, suggesting that PKCalpha may be involved in the 1,25-(OH)2D3-mediated regulation of osteocalcin gene expression.

Characterization of PGE(2) receptors (EP) and their role as mediators of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) effects on growth zone chondrocytes

Growth plate chondrocyte function is modulated by the vitamin D metabolite 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) via activation of protein kinase C (PKC). In previous studies with cells derived from prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic zones of rat costochondral cartilage (growth zone cells), inhibition of prostaglandin production with indomethacin caused a decrease in the stimulation of PKC activity, suggesting that changes in prostaglandin levels mediate the 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent response in these cells. Growth zone cells also respond to PGE(2) directly, indicating that prostaglandins act as autocrine or paracrine regulators of chondrocyte metabolism in the growth plate. The aim of the present study was to identify which PGE(2) receptor subtypes (EP) mediate the effects of PGE(2) on growth zone cells. Using primers specific for EP1-EP4, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) amplified EP1 and EP2 cDNA in a RT-dependent manner. In parallel experiments, we used EP subtype-specific agonists to examine the role of EP receptors in 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-mediated cell proliferation and differentiation. 17-Phenyl-trinor-PGE(2) (PTPGE(2)), an EP1 agonist, decreased [3H]-thymidine incorporation in a dose-dependent manner and augmented the 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(2)-induced inhibition of [3H]-thymidine incorporation. PTPGE(2) also caused significant increases in proteoglycan production, as measured by [35S]-sulfate incorporation, and alkaline phosphatase specific activity. 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-induced alkaline phosphatase activity was only slightly stimulated by PTPGE(2). In contrast, 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-induced PKC activity was synergistically increased by PTPGE(2), whereas EP1 antagonists SC-19220 and AH6809 inhibited PKC activity in a dose-dependent manner. The EP2, EP3 and EP4 agonists had no effect on the various cell-induced responses measured. EP1 receptor-induced responses were blocked by the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, and reduced by PKA inhibitors. EP1 receptor-induced PKC activity was insensitive to pertussis toxin or choleratoxin but blocked by the G-protein inhibitor GDPbetaS, suggesting the involvement of G(q). These results suggest that the EP1 receptor subtype mediates various PGE(2)-induced cellular responses in growth zone chondrocytes leading to decreased proliferation and enhanced differentiation, as well as the effect of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on cellular maturation.

Effect of a vitamin D3-based nutritional supplement ('Videchol') on carbohydrate metabolism of rats following chronic low dose-rate irradiation

In this study we evaluated the effects of the administration of a vitamin D3 preparation 'Videchol' to chronically irradiated rats (1 cGy day(-1)) by the assessment of the activities of several glycolytic enzymes: lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) (EC 1.1.1.28), pyruvate kinase (PK) (EC 2.7.1.40) and hexokinase (HK) (EC 2.7.1.1), in populations of erythroid and myeloid bone marrow cells. Videchol treatment of irradiated rats led to the normalisation of HK and LDH activity at cumulative doses of around 30 cGy in granulocyte-monocyte cells and to normalisation of LDH and PK activities in erythroid cells starting at 20 cGy in comparison with irradiated rats who did not receive Videchol. The reaction kinetic parameters of LDH in erythrocytes changed according to the redistribution pattern of the isozymes throughout the different stages of the experiment. The administration of Videchol to irradiated rats led to a rearrangement of the LDH isozymes ratio characterised by kinetic properties more comparable to those of the controls. Thus, vitamin D3 appears to induce a normalisation of carbohydrate metabolism in rats chronically irradiated with low dose-rate ionising radiation.

The effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on protein kinase C activity in chondrocytes is mediated by phospholipase D whereas the effect of 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) is mediated by phospholipase C

1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates protein kinase C (PKC) activity in growth zone chondrocytes by stimulating increased phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) activity and subsequent production of diacylglycerol (DAG). In contrast, 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates PKC activity in resting zone (RC) cells, but PLC does not appear to be involved, suggesting that phospholipase D (PLD) may play a role in DAG production. In the present study, we examined the role of PLD in the physiological response of RC cells to 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and determined the role of phospholipases D, C, and A(2) as well as G-proteins in mediating the effects of vitamin D(3) metabolites on PKC activity in RC and GC cells. Inhibition of PLD with wortmannin or EDS caused a dose-dependent inhibition of basal [3H]-thymidine incorporation by RC cells and further increased the inhibitory effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3). Wortmannin also inhibited basal alkaline phosphatase activity and [35]-sulfate incorporation and decreased the stimulatory effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3). This inhibitory effect of wortmannin was not seen in cultures treated with the PI-3-kinase inhibitor LY294002, verifying that wortmannin affected PLD. Wortmannin also inhibited basal PKC activity and partially blocked the stimulatory effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on this enzyme activity. Neither inhibition of PI-PLC with U73122, nor PC-PLC with D609, modulated PKC activity. Wortmannin had no effect on basal PLD in GC cells, nor on 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent PKC. Inhibition of PI-PLC blocked the 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent increase in PKC activity but inhibition of PC-PLC had no effect. Activation of PLA(2) with melittin inhibited basal and 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-stimulated PKC in RC cells and stimulated basal and 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-stimulated PKC in GC cells, but wortmannin had no effect on the melittin-induced changes in either cell type. Pertussis toxin modestly increased the effect of 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC, whereas GDPbetaS had no effect, suggesting that PLD2 is the isoform responsible. This indicates that 1alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates PKC in GC cells via PI-PLC and PLA(2), but not PC-PLC or PLD, whereas 24R,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates PKC in RC cells via PLD2.

17 beta-estradiol-BSA conjugates and 17 beta-estradiol regulate growth plate chondrocytes by common membrane associated mechanisms involving PKC dependent and independent signal transduction

Nuclear receptors for 17 beta-estradiol (E(2)) are present in growth plate chondrocytes from both male and female rats and regulation of chondrocytes through these receptors has been studied for many years; however, recent studies indicate that an alternative pathway involving a membrane receptor may also be involved in the cell response. E(2) was found to directly affect the fluidity of chondrocyte membranes derived from female, but not male, rats. In addition, E(2) activates protein kinase C (PKC) in a nongenomic manner in female cells, and chelerythrine, a specific inhibitor of PKC, inhibits E(2)-dependent alkaline phosphatase activity and proteoglycan sulfation in these cells, indicating PKC is involved in the signal transduction mechanism. The aims of the present study were: (1) to examine the effect of a cell membrane-impermeable 17 beta-estradiol-bovine serum albumin conjugate (E(2)-BSA) on chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis; (2) to determine the pathway that mediates the membrane effect of E(2)-BSA on PKC; and (3) to compare the action of E(2)-BSA to that of E(2). Confluent, fourth passage resting zone (RC) and growth zone (GC) chondrocytes from female rat costochondral cartilage were treated with 10(-9) to 10(-7) M E(2) or E(2)-BSA and changes in alkaline phosphatase specific activity, proteoglycan sulfation, and [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation measured. To examine the pathway of PKC activation, chondrocyte cultures were treated with E(2)-BSA in the presence or absence of GDP beta S (inhibitor of G-proteins), GTP gamma S (activator of G-proteins), U73122 or D609 (inhibitors of phospholipase C [PLC]), wortmannin (inhibitor of phospholipase D [PLD]) or LY294002 (inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase). E(2)-BSA mimicked the effects of E(2) on alkaline phosphatase specific activity and proteoglycan sulfation, causing dose-dependent increases in both RC and GC cell cultures. Both forms of estradiol inhibited [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation, and the effect was dose-dependent. E(2)-BSA caused time-dependent increases in PKC in RC and GC cells; effects were observed within three minutes in RC cells and within one minute in GC cells. Response to E(2) was more robust in RC cells, whereas in GC cells, E(2) and E(2)-BSA caused a comparable increase in PKC. GDP beta S inhibited the activation of PKC in E(2)-BSA-stimulated RC and GC cells. GTP gamma S increased PKC in E(2)-BSA-stimulated GC cells, but had no effect in E(2)-BSA-stimulated RC cells. The phosphatidylinositol-specific PLC inhibitor U73122 blocked E(2)-BSA-stimulated PKC activity in both RC and GC cells, whereas the phosphatidylcholine-specific PLC inhibitor D609 had no effect. Neither the PLD inhibitor wortmannin nor the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor LY294022 had any effect on E(2)-BSA-stimulated PKC activity in either RC or GC cells. The classical estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182780 was unable to block the stimulatory effect of E(2)-BSA on PKC. Moreover, the classical receptor agonist diethylstilbestrol (DES) had no effect on PKC, nor did it alter the stimulatory effect of E(2)-BSA. The specificity of the membrane response to E(2) was also demonstrated by showing that the membrane receptor for 1 alpha,25-(OH)(2)D(3) was not involved. These data indicate that the rapid nongenomic effect of E(2)-BSA on PKC activity in RC and GC cells is dependent on G-protein-coupled PLC and support the hypothesis that many of the effects of E(2) involve membrane-associated mechanisms independent of classical estrogen receptors. (c) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Activation of latent transforming growth factor beta1 by stromelysin 1 in extracts of growth plate chondrocyte-derived matrix vesicles

Previous studies have shown that matrix vesicles isolated from cultures of costochondral growth zone chondrocytes and treated with 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1alpha,25(OH)2D3] can activate recombinant human latent transforming growth factor beta1 (rhTGF-beta1). It is unknown what enzyme or other factor in the extracellular organelles is responsible for the activation. This study tested the hypothesis that enzymes present in matrix vesicles can activate latent TGF-beta1 and that this is regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)2D3. To do this, we examined the ability of matrix vesicle extracts to activate small latent rhTGF-beta1. In addition, enzymes previously determined to be present in matrix vesicles were screened for their ability to activate small latent rhTGF-beta1. Recombinant human matrix metalloproteinase 2 (rhMMP-2; 72 kDa gelatinase), rhMMP-3 (stromelysin 1), purified human plasminogen, and purified urokinase (plasminogen activator) were each tested at varying concentrations. To assess the role of cell maturation, we used a cell culture model in which chondrocytes are derived from two distinct zones of rat costochondral cartilage, the resting zone and the growth zone. Matrix vesicles were isolated from these cultures and then tested. The results showed that extracts of matrix vesicles produced by both growth zone and resting zone chondrocytes were able to activate small latent rhTGF-beta1. The effects were dose and time dependent, with greater activity being found in extracts of matrix vesicles from the growth zone chondrocyte cultures. Only rhMMP-3 was able to activate small latent rhTGF-beta1, indicating that stromelysin-1, but not MMP-2, plasminogen, or urokinase, was involved. As observed in the extracts, the effect of rhMMP-3 was time and dose dependent. When anti-MMP-3 antibody was added to matrix vesicle extracts from both cell types, activation of small latent rhTGF-beta1 was dose-dependently blocked. Neither 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 nor 24R,25(OH)2D3 had a direct effect on activation of small latent rhTGF-beta1 by the extracts. However, when intact matrix vesicles were treated with 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, their ability to activate small latent rhTGF-beta1 was increased. Inhibition of phospholipase A2 with quinacrine blocked the 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-dependent effect. These results suggest that the ability of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-treated matrix vesicles to activate small latent TGF-beta1 is via action of the secosteroid on the matrix vesicle membrane, not on the enzymes responsible for activating latent TGF-beta1. Because matrix vesicles isolated from growth zone chondrocytes have been shown to contain increased phospholipase A2 activity after treatment with 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, it is likely that this secosteroid promotes loss of membrane integrity through phospholipase A2-dependent formation of lysophospholipids, resulting in the release of MMP-3 into the matrix, where latent TGF-beta1 is stored. Taken together, the results of the current study show that matrix vesicles produced by growth plate chondrocytes contain MMP-3, that this enzyme is at least partially responsible for activation of small latent TGF-beta1 in the matrix, and that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 regulates MMP release from matrix vesicles.

Both cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 mediate osteoblast response to titanium surface roughness

Previous studies suggest that the enhanced expression of the osteoblastic phenotype exhibited by MG63 osteoblast-like cells on rough Ti surfaces (R(a) 4-5 microm) involves increased production of prostaglandin. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin blocks surface-roughness-dependent decreases in cell proliferation and increases in alkaline phosphatase activity and the production of osteocalcin and TGF-beta1. This study examined the hypothesis that the increase in expression of the osteoblastic phenotype noted in MG63 cells cultured on rough Ti surfaces is mediated by inducible cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) whereas Cox-1 modulates prostaglandin production and phenotypic expression of the cells under standard conditions and on smooth Ti surfaces. MG63 cells were cultured on tissue culture plastic, smooth Ti (PT, R(a) = 0.60 microm), and two rough Ti surfaces with differing morphologies (SLA, R(a) = 3.97 microm and TPS, R(a) = 5.21 microm). At 24 h after plating, media were replaced with media containing the general Cox inhibitor indomethacin (10(-7)M), the Cox-1 inhibitor resveratrol (1 or 10 microM), or the Cox-2 inhibitor NS-398 (1 or 10 microM). Media were changed again after 48 h. Five days after plating, osteocalcin, PGE(2), and TGF-beta1 content of the conditioned media were determined. Cell numbers were assessed in the same cultures used for determination of osteocalcin production. Cell layer protein and alkaline phosphatase specific activity were assessed in cultures used to measure PGE(2) and TGF-beta1. Indomethacin, resveratrol, and NS-398 had no effect on cell number. Indomethacin blocked the surface-roughness-dependent increase in PGE(2) production by up to 80%. Similarly, resveratrol inhibited up to 50% of the PGE(2) production on smooth surfaces and up to 80% on rough surfaces. In contrast, NS-398 had no effect on PGE(2) production by cells on smooth surfaces but caused a 60% reduction in cultures on rough surfaces. Indomethacin reduced alkaline phosphatase on all surfaces below basal levels. However, neither resveratrol nor NS-398 had an effect. Indomethacin blocked the stimulatory effect of surface roughness on osteocalcin production while resveratrol only partially reduced osteocalcin production, and NS398 completely blocked the surface-dependent increase. TGF-beta1 production on rough surfaces was blocked by indomethacin. The effects of resveratrol and NS-398 were dose dependent, but neither agent caused total inhibition of the increase noted on SLA, and only resveratrol blocked the increase on TPS. These results indicate that both Cox-1 and Cox-2 are involved in the response of osteoblasts to surface roughness with respect to production of PGE(2), TGF-beta1, and osteocalcin. While prostaglandin mediates the effects of surface roughness on alkaline phosphatase, neither Cox-1 nor Cox-2 appears to be involved, at least with respect to the two inhibitors used.

Stathmin levels in growth plate chondrocytes are modulated by vitamin D3 metabolites and transforming growth factor-beta1 and are associated with proliferation

Stathmin is a highly conserved, phosphorylated cytosolic protein that is found at decreased levels in all cells as they become more terminally differentiated, or when they decrease in their rate of proliferation. This study examined the hypothesis that stathmin levels in growth plate chondrocytes decreases as endochondral maturation increases. To test this hypothesis, we used a costochondral growth plate chondrocyte cell culture model. Cells derived from the resting zone (RC) express twice as much stathmin mRNA in culture and have twice as much stathmin protein as cells derived from the post proliferative growth zone ([GC]; prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic cell zones). Stathmin levels in vivo were assessed by immunohistochemistry. To assess the effects of agents that modulate proliferation and differentiation, RC and GC chondrocytes were cultured in the presence of 10(-10) to 10(-8) M 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3, which regulates proliferation in both cell types but affects differentiation of only GC cells, or 10(-9) to 10(-7) M 24R,25-(OH)2D3, which regulates differentiation and maturation of RC cells but decreases proliferation of GC cells. In addition, RC cells were treated with 0.44 or 0.88 ng/mL of recombinant human transforming growth factor beta1 (rhTGF-beta1), which stimulates proliferation of RC cells and regulates proteoglycan production, but not alkaline phosphatase activity. Stathmin protein levels were determined using quantitative immunoblots, with recombinant human stathmin as a standard. The results show that stathmin levels are associated with proliferation. Proliferating chondrocytes in vivo exhibited higher levels of immunoreactive stathmin than either RC or GC cells in the growth plate. In culture, 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 caused a dose-dependent decrease in stathmin in RC and GC cells within 24 h. 24R, 25-(OH)2D3 also reduced stathmin levels in GC cells within 24 h but only affected RC cells after prolonged exposures (96 h), at which time RC cells express a GC-like phenotype. rhTGF-beta1 caused an increase in stathmin levels in RC cells. Stathmin levels are sensitive to protein kinase C (PKC) in other cells. Inhibition of PKC with chelerythrine had no effect on the response of RC cells to 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 but it blocked the effect of rhTGF-beta1, indicating that decreases in stathmin by vitamin D3 metabolites may not be modulated by PKC, whereas increases in stathmin via rhTGF-beta1 may be regulated via a PKC-dependent mechanism. These results support the hypothesis that constitutively expressed levels of stathmin are related to cell maturation state and that they are modulated by factors that regulate proliferation.

Primary mineralization at the surfaces of implants

Osteogenesis around implants is affected by the physical and chemical characteristics of the biomaterials used. The osteoprogenitor cells must migrate to the implant site and synthesize and secrete a mineralizable extracellular matrix. Because this is neo-bone formation, the mechanism by which the cells calcify their matrix involves extracellular organelles called matrix vesicles in a process termed "primary mineralization". Two different methods for assessing the effects of implant materials on primary mineralization are presented in this report. In the first approach, different implant materials used in dentistry and orthopedic surgery were placed in rat tibial bones after marrow ablation. Two groups of implants were used, bone-bonding and non-bonding materials. We examined the effects of the materials on calcification morphometrically by quantitating changes in matrix vesicle morphology and distribution in endosteal tissue around implants as compared with normal endosteal bone healing. In addition, matrix vesicles were isolated from the endosteal tissue around the implant as well as from the contralateral limb and were examined biochemically. The results demonstrated that bone-bonding materials induced a greater increase in matrix vesicle enzyme activity than did non-bonding materials. However, all materials caused changes in matrix vesicles that were different from those seen in normal endosteal bone formation following injury. The effects of implant materials on biochemical markers of mineralization, including specific activities of matrix vesicle alkaline phosphatase and phospholipase A2 and phosphatidylserine content, demonstrated a high correlation with the morphometric observations with regard to enhancement and/or delay of primary mineralization. In the other approach, we used a radioisotopic method to evaluate the effects of implant materials on primary mineralization. This analysis revealed that implants alter bone healing, as shown by the differential uptake of 99mTc and 32P in different bone compartments. Decreased 32P uptake by the organic phase in the presence of bone-bonding implants suggests that cleavage of 99mTcMD32P into its technetium and methylene diphosphonate moieties was inhibited by the presence of the implants. In summary, these approaches to evaluating the effects of materials on primary mineralization demonstrate that the marrow ablation model can easily distinguish between bone-bonding and non-bonding materials. The use of this model can be valuable in the development of new materials.

24,25-(OH)(2)D(3) regulates cartilage and bone via autocrine and endocrine mechanisms

The purpose of this paper is to summarize recent advances in our understanding of the physiological role of 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) in bone and cartilage and its mechanism of action. With the identification of a target cell, the growth plate resting zone (RC) chondrocyte, we have been able to use cell biology methodology to investigate specific functions of 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) and to determine how 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) elicits its effects. These studies indicate that there are specific membrane-associated signal transduction pathways that mediate both rapid, nongenomic and genomic responses of RC cells to 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3). 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) binds RC chondrocyte membranes with high specificity, resulting in an increase in protein kinase C (PKC) activity. The effect is stereospecific; 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3), but not 24S,25-(OH)(2)D(3), causes the increase, indicating a receptor-mediated response. Phospholipase D-2 (PLD2) activity is increased, resulting in increased production of diacylglycerol (DAG), which in turn activates PKC. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) does not cause translocation of PKC to the plasma membrane, but activates existing PKCalpha. There is a rapid decrease in Ca(2+) efflux, and influx is stimulated. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) also reduces arachidonic acid release by decreasing phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) activity, thereby decreasing available substrate for prostaglandin production via the action of cyclooxygenase-1. PGE(2) that is produced acts on the EP1 and EP2 receptors expressed by RC cells to downregulate PKC via protein kinase A, but the reduction in PGE(2) decreases this negative feedback mechanism. Both pathways converge on MAP kinase, leading to new gene expression. One consequence of this is production of new matrix vesicles containing PKCalpha and PKCzeta and an increase in PKC activity. The chondrocytes also produce 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3), and the secreted metabolite acts directly on the matrix vesicle membrane. Only PKCzeta is directly affected by 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) in the matrix vesicles, and activity of this isoform is inhibited. This effect may be involved in the control of matrix maturation and turnover. 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) causes RC cells to mature along the endochondral developmental pathway, where they become responsive to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and lose responsiveness to 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3), a characteristic of more mature growth zone (GC) chondrocytes. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) elicits its effects on GC through different signal transduction pathways than those used by 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3). These studies indicate that 24(R),25(OH)(2)D(3) plays an important role in endochondral ossification by regulating less mature chondrocytes and promoting their maturation in the endochondral lineage.

Regulation of phospholipase D (PLD) in growth plate chondrocytes by 24R,25-(OH)2D3 is dependent on cell maturation state (resting zone cells) and is specific to the PLD2 isoform

Many of the effects of 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 and 24R,25-(OH)2D3 on costochondral chondrocytes are mediated by the protein kinase C (PKC) signal transduction pathway. 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 activates PKC in costochondral growth zone chondrocytes through a specific membrane receptor (1alpha,25-mVDR), involving rapid increases in diacylglycerol via a phospholipase C (PLC)-dependent mechanism. 24R,25-(OH)2D3 activates PKC in resting zone chondrocytes. Although diacylglycerol is increased by 24R,25-(OH)2D3, PLC is not involved, suggesting a phospholipase D (PLD)-dependent mechanism. Here, we show that resting zone and growth zone cells express mRNAs for PLD1a, PLD1b, and PLD2. Both cell types have PLD activity, but levels are higher in resting zone cells. 24R,25-(OH)2D3, but not 24S,25-(OH)2D3 or 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3, stimulates PLD activity in resting zone cells within 3 min via nongenomic mechanisms. Neither 1alpha,25-(OH)2D3 nor 24R,25-(OH)2D3 affected PLD in growth zone cells. Basal and 24R,25-(OH)2D3-stimulated PLD were inhibited by the PLD inhibitors wortmannin and EDS. Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase), PKC, phosphatidylinositol-specific PLC (PI-PLC), and phosphatidylcholine-specific PLC (PC-PLC) had no effect on PLD activity. Thus, 24R,25-(OH)2D3 stimulates PLD, and PI 3-kinase, PI-PLC and PKC are not involved, whereas PLD is required for stimulation of PKC by 24R,25-(OH)2D3. Pertussis toxin, GDPbetaS, and GTPgammaS had no effect on 24R,25-(OH)2D3-dependent PLD when added to cell cultures, indicating that G-proteins are not involved. These data show that PKC activation in resting zone cells is mediated by PLD and suggest that a functional 24R,25-(OH)2D3-mVDR is required. The results also support the conclusion that the 24R,25-(OH)2D3-responsive PLD is PLD2, since this PLD isoform is G-protein-independent.

Parathyroid hormone and transforming growth factor-beta1 coregulate chondrocyte differentiation in vitro

Parathyroid hormone (1-34) (PTH(1-34) and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) regulate chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis. Both proteins mediate their effects in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and the effects are cell maturation specific. Moreover, similar signaling pathways are used, suggesting that there may be cross talk leading to coregulated cell response. To test this hypothesis, confluent cultures of rat costochondral resting zone and growth zone chondrocytes were treated with 0.22, 0.44, or 0.88 ng/mL of rhTGF-beta1 for 24 h, followed by treatment with 10(-11) to 10(-8) M PTH(1-34) for 10 min or 24 h. [3H]-Thymidine incorporation, specific activity of alkaline phosphatase (AP), and [35S]-sulfate incorporation were measured. PTH(1-34) had no effect on [3H]-thymidine incorporation by growth zone cells pretreated with 0.22 or 0.44 ng/mL of TGF-beta1, but in cultures treated with 0.88 ng/mL, PTH(1-34) caused a dose-dependent decrease that was maximal at the lowest concentration tested. By contrast, PTH(1-34) stimulated [3H]-thymidine incorporation by resting zone cells, and this effect was additive with the stimulation caused by 0.22 ng/mL of TGF-beta1. PTH(1-34) caused a synergistic increase in AP in growth zone cells treated with 0.44 or 0.88 ng/mL of TGF-beta1, but not in cells treated with 0.22 ng/mL of TGF-beta1. It had no effect on AP in resting zone cells pretreated with any concentration of TGF-beta1. PTH(1-34) increased [35S]-sulfate incorporation in growth zone and resting zone cell cultures treated with 0.22 ng/mL of TGF-beta1 to levels seen in cultures treated with 0.88 ng/mL of TGF-beta1 alone. These results support the hypothesis that PTH(1-34) and TGF-beta1 coregulate growth plate chondrocytes and that the effects are cell maturation dependent.

A specific binding moiety for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) in basal lateral membranes of carp enterocytes

Carp (Cyprinus carpio), a freshwater fish that lives in a low-calcium environment, and Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), a seawater fish that lives in a high-calcium environment, were studied for the presence of a novel membrane binding protein ("receptor") for the vitamin D metabolite, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)]. Basal lateral membranes from enterocytes of either species were prepared and analyzed for specific saturable binding. Membranes from carp revealed a dissociation constant of 1.23 nM with a maximal binding capacity of 212 fmol/mg protein. In comparison, membranes from Atlantic cod enterocytes revealed very low and nonsignificant levels of specific binding. The [(3)H]1,25(OH)(2)D(3) binding activity in carp was further characterized for protein dependence, detergent extractability, and competition for binding with the metabolites 25(OH)D(3) and 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3). Finally, introduction of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) to isolated carp enterocytes enhanced protein kinase C activity within 5 min, whereas intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations were unaffected by a range of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) concentrations, as judged by fura 2 fluorescence. Thus the binding moiety may be a putative plasma membrane receptor for vitamin D, because it is functionally coupled to at least one signal transduction pathway.

Effect of a vitamin D3 analogue on keratinocyte growth factor-induced cell proliferation in benign prostate hyperplasia

Prostate enlargement and function is under the dual control of androgens and intraprostatic growth factors. They regulate, in concert, prostate cell proliferation and apoptosis. An increased signaling of both growth factors and androgens are supposed to underlie benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), one of the more common disorders of the aging male. Since, in clinical practice, androgen ablation resulted in a rather limited decrease in prostate volume, therapeutic strategies targeting intraprostatic growth factors are emerging. The activated form of vitamin D, vitamin D3, and some of its analogues have been described as potent regulators of cell growth and differentiation. In this study, we report the effects of one of these vitamin D3 analogues, 1,25-dihydroxy-16ene-23yne D3, or analogue (V), on the fate of isolated epithelial cells derived from patients with BPH. We essentially found that analogue (V), as well as vitamin D3, inhibited BPH cell proliferation and counteracted the mitogenic activity of a potent growth factor for BPH cells, such as keratinocyte growth factor (KGF). Moreover, analogue (V) induced bcl-2 protein expression, intracellular calcium mobilization, and apoptosis in both unstimulated and KGF-stimulated BPH cells. Since a short-term (5-min) incubation with analogue (V) reduced the KGF-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of a 120-kDA protein, corresponding to the KGF receptor, a rapid and direct cross-talk between these two molecules is suggested. Such a rapid effect of analogue (V), together with the transient induction of intracellular calcium waves, seems to indicate the partial involvement of a membrane, nongenomic receptor for vitamin D3. In conclusion, we demonstrated the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect of analogue (V) in BPH cells and speculated on its possible use in the therapy of BPH.

The membrane effects of 17beta-estradiol on chondrocyte phenotypic expression are mediated by activation of protein kinase C through phospholipase C and G-proteins

Growth plate chondrocytes from both male and female rats have nuclear receptors for 17beta-estradiol (E(2)); however, recent studies indicate that an alternative pathway involving a membrane receptor may also be involved in the female cell response. E(2) directly affects the fluidity of chondrocyte membranes derived from female, but not male, rats. In addition, E(2) activates PKC in a nongenomic manner in female cells, and chelerythrine, a specific inhibitor of PKC, inhibits E(2)-dependent alkaline phosphatase activity in these cells, indicating PKC is involved in the signal transduction mechanism. The aims of this study were: (1) to examine if PKC mediates the effect of E(2) on chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis; and (2) to determine the pathway that mediates the membrane effect of E(2) on PKC. Confluent, fourth passage resting zone (RC) and growth zone (GC) chondrocytes from female rat costochondral cartilage were treated with 10(-10) to 10(-7) M E(2) in the presence or absence of the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine, and changes in alkaline phosphatase specific activity, proteoglycan sulfation, and [3H]thymidine incorporation were measured. To examine the pathway of PKC activation, chondrocyte cultures were treated with E(2) in the presence or absence of genistein (an inhibitor of tyrosine kinases), U73122 or D609 (inhibitors of phospholipase C [PLC]), quinacrine (an inhibitor of phospholipase A(2) [PLA(2)]), and melittin (an activator of PLA(2)). Alkaline phosphatase specific activity and proteoglycan sulfation were increased and [3H]thymidine incorporation was decreased by E(2). The effects of E(2) on all parameters were blocked by chelerythrine. Treatment of the cultures with E(2) produced a significant dose-dependent increase in PKC. U73122 dose-dependently inhibited the activation of PKC in E(2)-stimulated female chondrocyte cultures. However, the classical receptor antagonist ICI 182780 was unable to block the stimulatory effect of E(2) on PKC. Moreover, the classical receptor agonist diethylstilbestrol (DES) had no effect on PKC, nor did it alter the stimulatory effect of E(2). Inhibition of tyrosine kinase and PLA(2) had no effect on the activation of PKC by E(2). The PLA(2) activator also had no effect on PKC activation by E(2). E(2) stimulated PKC activity in membranes isolated from the chondrocytes, demonstrating a direct membrane effect for this steroid hormone. These data indicate that the rapid nongenomic effect of E(2) on PKC activity in chondrocytes from female rats is sex-specific and dependent upon a G-protein-coupled phospholipase C.

Immunochemical studies on the putative plasmalemmal receptor for 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3). I. Chick intestine

Antisera were raised against the NH(2)-terminus of the putative basal lateral membrane (BLM) receptor for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3); BLM-VDR]. In Western analyses of BLM proteins, antibody (Ab) 099 was monospecific for a 64.5-kDa band. A protein of 64.5 kDa was also labeled by the affinity ligand [(14)C]1, 25(OH)(2)D(3)-bromoacetate; label was diminished in the presence of excess unlabeled secosteroid. The monoclonal antibody against the nuclear VDR (9A7) failed to detect an appropriate band in BLM fractions. Preincubation of isolated intestinal cells with Ab 099, but not 9A7, affected the following two 1,25(OH)(2)D(3)-mediated signal transduction events: augmented intracellular calcium and protein kinase C activity. Subcellular distribution of Ab 099 reactivity by Western analyses and fluorescence microscopy revealed the highest concentrations in BLM followed by the endoplasmic reticulum. Exposure of isolated intestinal cells to 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) for 10 s or vascular perfusion of duodena for 5 min resulted in a time-dependent increase in nuclear localization of the BLM-VDR antigen, as judged by electron microscopy, whereas 24, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) failed to increase antigenic labeling in nuclei. Densitometric quantitation of Western blots of subcellular fractions prepared from isolated intestinal cells treated with vehicle or 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) confirmed a hormone-induced increase of putative BLM-VDR in the nucleus. It is concluded that a novel cell surface binding protein for 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) has been identified.

Surface roughness mediates its effects on osteoblasts via protein kinase A and phospholipase A2

Earlier studies have shown that implant surface roughness influences osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, matrix synthesis and local factor production. Moreover, the responsiveness of osteoblasts to systemic hormones, such as 1,25-(OH)2D3, at the implant surface is also influenced by surface roughness and this effect is mediated by changes in prostaglandins. At present, it is not known which signaling pathways are involved in mediating cell response to surface roughness and how 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment alters the activation of these pathways. This paper reviews a series of studies that have addressed this question. MG63 osteoblast-like cells were cultured on commercially pure titanium (cpTi) surfaces of two different roughnesses (Ra 0.54 and 4.92 microm) in the presence of control media or media containing 1,25-(OH)2D3 or 1,25-(OH)2D3 plus H8 (a protein kinase A inhibitor) or quinacrine (a phospholipase A2 inhibitor). At harvest, the effect of these treatments on cell number and alkaline phosphatase specific activity was measured. Compared to cultures grown on the smooth surface, cell number was reduced on the rough surface. 1,25-(OH)2D3 inhibited cell number on both surfaces and inhibition of protein kinase A in the presence of 1,25-(OH)2D3 restored cell number to that seen in the control cultures. Inhibition of phospholipase A2 in the presence of 1,25-(OH)2D3 caused a further reduction in cell number on the smooth surface, and partially reversed the inhibitory effects of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on the rough surface. Alkaline phosphatase specific activity was increased in cultures grown on the rough surface compared with those grown on the smooth surface; 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment increased enzyme specific activity on both surfaces. Cultures treated with H8 and 1,25-(OH)2D3 displayed enzyme specific activity that approximated that seen in control cultures. Inhibition of phospholipase A2 also inhibited the 1,25-(OH)2D3-dependent effect on the smooth surface, but on the rough surface there was an inhibition of the 1,25-(OH)2D3 effect as well as a partial inhibition of the surface roughness-dependent effect. The results indicate that surface roughness and 1,25-(OH)2 D3 mediate their effects through phospholipase A2, which catalyzes one of the rate-limiting steps in prostaglandin E2 production. Further downstream, prostaglandin E2 activates protein kinase A.

Surface roughness modulates the response of MG63 osteoblast-like cells to 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) through regulation of phospholipase A(2) activity and activation of protein kinase A

Implant surface roughness influences osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and local factor production. Moreover, the responsiveness of osteoblasts to systemic hormones such as 1, 25-(OH)(2)D(3) is altered by the effects of surface roughness; on the roughest Ti surfaces the effects of roughness and 1, 25-(OH)(2)D(3) are synergistic. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) appears to be involved in mediating the effects of surface roughness on the cells, as well as in the response to 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3). However, it is not yet known through which signaling pathways surface roughness exerts its effects on the response of osteoblasts to 1, 25-(OH)(2)D(3). The present study examined the potential role of protein kinase A (PKA), phospholipase A(2)(PLA(2)), and protein kinase C (PKC) in this process. MG63 osteoblast-like human osteosarcoma cells were cultured on cpTi disks with R(a) values of 0. 54 microm (PT), 4.14 microm (SLA), or 4.92 microm (TPS). PKA was inhibited by adding H8 to the cultures; similarly, PLA(2) was inhibited with quinacrine or activated with melittin, and PKC was inhibited with chelerythrine. Inhibitors or activators were included in the culture media through the entire culture period or for the last 24 h of culture. In addition, cultures were treated for 24 h with inhibitors or activators in the presence of 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3). The effects on cell number and alkaline phosphatase specific activity were determined after 24 h; PKC activity was determined after 9 min and at 24 h. Cell number was reduced on rough surfaces, and alkaline phosphatase activity was increased. 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) had a synergistic effect with surface roughness on alkaline phosphatase. However, neither surface roughness nor 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) had an effect on PKC. H8 treatment for 24 h inhibited cell number and alkaline phosphatase on all surfaces; however, when it was present throughout the culture period, the PKA inhibitor had no effect on cell number, but decreased alkaline phosphatase-specific activity. H8 reduced the 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-mediated effect on cell number and alkaline phosphatase. Quinacrine inhibited cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase on all surfaces and further reduced the 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent decreases in both parameters. Melittin had no effect when applied for 24 h and did not modify the 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) effect; however, when present throughout the culture period, it caused a decrease in proliferation and an increase in enzyme activity. Chelerythrine, the PKC inhibitor, only inhibited cell proliferation when it was present throughout the entire culture period. However, it decreased alkaline phosphatase in cultures treated for 24 h, but increased enzyme activity when it was present for the entire culture period. The results indicate that surface roughness and 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) both mediate their effects through PLA(2) which catalyzes the rate-limiting step in PGE(2) production. Further downstream, PGE(2) activates PKA. Surface roughness-dependent effects are also mediated through PKC, but only after the cells have reached confluence and are undergoing phenotypic maturation. The effect of surface roughness on responsiveness to 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) is mediated through PLA(2)/PKA and not through PKC.

Effect of 1,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) on the activation of natural killer cells: role of protein kinase C and extracellular calcium

As a first approach for studying the implication of PKC and the steroid hormone 1,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)] on natural killer cell (NK) activity, we analyzed in the YT NK cell line the expression of PKC isoforms and the effects of 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) on BLT-esterase (a marker of NK lytic granules) activity. Western blot and RT-PCR showed a greater extent of PKC alpha, beta, delta, zeta, epsilon, theta, and lambda and lower levels of PKC mu and eta. In a dose-dependent manner 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) induced significant increases in BLT-esterase and PKC activities and the stimulatory effect on BLT-esterase activity was mimicked and blocked, respectively, by the PKC activator phorbol ester PMA and PKC inhibitors (H7, PKC(19-36), and N-myristoylated PKC(19-31) peptides). Moreover, the effects of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) on BLT-esterase could be blocked in a Ca(2+)-free (+EGTA) medium and mimicked by the Ca2+ ionophore A23187. The results suggest that 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) is a stimulatory factor of NK activity acting through a mechanism involving PKC and extracellular Ca2+.

Physiological importance of the 1,25(OH)2D3 membrane receptor and evidence for a membrane receptor specific for 24,25(OH)2D3

We have recently identified a membrane vitamin D receptor (mVDR) specific for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and shown that it mediates the rapid activation of protein kinase C (PKC) in growth zone chondrocytes (GCs). In this study, we examine the role of the 1, 25(OH)2D3-mVDR in chondrocyte physiology and provide evidence for the existence of a specific membrane receptor for 24, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (24,25(OH)2D3-mVDR). Fourth-passage cultures of growth plate chondrocytes at two distinct stages of endochondral development, resting zone (RC) and growth zone (GC) cells, were used to assess the role of the mVDR in cell proliferation, PKC activation, and proteoglycan sulfation. To preclude the involvement of the nuclear vitamin D receptor (nVDR), we used hybrid analogs of 1, 25(OH)2D3 with <0.1% affinity for the nVDR (2a, 1alpha-CH2OH-3beta-25D3; 3a, 1alpha-CH2OH-3beta-20-epi-22-oxa-25D3; and 3b, 1beta-CH2OH-3alpha-20-epi-22-oxa-25D3). To determine the involvement of the mVDR, we used an antibody generated against the highly purified 1,25(OH)2D3 binding protein from chick intestinal basolateral membranes (Ab99). Analog binding to the mVDR was demonstrated by competition with [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 using matrix vesicles (MVs) isolated from cultures of RC and GC cells. Specific recognition sites for 24,25(OH)2D3 in RC MVs were demonstrated by saturation binding analysis. Specific binding of 24,25(OH)2D3 was also investigated in plasma membranes (PMs) from RC and GC cells and GC MVs. In addition, we examined the ability of Ab99 to block the stimulation of PKC by analog 2a in isolated RC PMs as well as the inhibition of PKC by analog 2a in GC MVs. Like 1,25(OH)2D3, analogs 2a, 3a, and 3b inhibit RC and GC cell proliferation. The effect was dose dependent and could be blocked by Ab99. In GC cells, PKC activity was stimulated maximally by analogs 2a and 3a and very modestly by 3b. The effect of 2a and 3a was similar to that of 1, 25(OH)2D3 and was blocked by Ab99, whereas the effect of 3b was unaffected by antibody. In contrast, 2a was the only analog that increased PKC activity in RC cells, and this effect was unaffected by Ab99. Analog 2a had no effect on proteoglycan sulfation in RC cells, whereas analogs 3a and 3b stimulated it and this was not blocked by Ab99. Binding of [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 to GC MVs was displaced completely with 1,25(OH)2D3 and analogs 2a, 3a, and 3b, but 24, 25(OH)2D3 only displaced 51% of the bound ligand. 24,25(OH)2D3 displaced 50% of [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 bound to RC MVs, but 2a, 3a, and 3b displaced <50%. Scatchard analysis indicated specific binding of 24, 25(OH)2D3 to recognition sites in RC MVs with a Kd of 69.2 fmol/ml and a Bmax of 52.6 fmol/mg of protein. Specific binding for 24, 25(OH)2D3 was also found in RC and GC PMs and GC MVs. GC membranes exhibited lower specific binding than RC membranes; MVs had greater specific binding than PMs in both cell types. 2a caused a dose-dependent increase in PKC activity of RC PMs that was unaffected by Ab99; it inhibited PKC activity in GC MVs, and this effect was blocked by Ab99. The results indicate that the 1, 25(OH)2D3 mVDR mediates the antiproliferative effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on chondrocytes. It also mediates the 1,25(OH)2D3-dependent stimulation of PKC in GC cells, but not the 2a-dependent increase in RC PKC activity, indicating that 24,25(OH)2D3 mediates its effects through a separate receptor. This is supported by the failure of Ab99 to block 2a-dependent stimulation of PKC in isolated PMs. The data demonstrate for the first time the presence of a specific 24, 25(OH)2D3 mVDR in endochondral chondrocytes and show that, although both cell types express mVDRs for 1,25(OH)2D3 and 24,25(OH)2D3, their relative distribution is cell maturation-dependent.

The renal function of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1alpha-hydroxylase

The active, hormonal form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) has numerous pleiotropic actions including the regulation of calcium homeostasis, control of bone cell differentiation and modification of immune responses. Synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D3 from the major circulating metabolite, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3), is catalysed by the mitochondrial cytochrome P450 enzyme 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1alpha-hydroxylase (1alpha-HYD). Although 1alpha-HYD activity has been demonstrated at several ectopic sites, circulating levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 appear to reflect the expression of this enzyme in the kidney. The tight regulation of 1alpha-HYD in both renal and ectopic tissues has made studies of the expression and regulation of this enzyme remarkably difficult. However, the recent cloning of mouse, rat and human cDNAs for 1alpha-HYD has stimulated renewed interest in the molecular endocrinology of 1,25(OH)2D3 production. Analysis of the 1alpha-HYD sequence has revealed homology with the liver enzyme vitamin D-25-hydroxylase, and the ubiquitously expressed vitamin D-24-hydroxylase. Furthermore, mutations causing the inherited disorder vitamin D-dependent rickets type 1, also known as pseudo-vitamin D deficiency rickets have been described for the 1alpha-HYD gene and these have been mapped to chromosome 12q14 by linkage analysis. The availability of sequence information for the 1alpha-HYD gene has also facilitated the development of new molecular tools which will help to clarify key functions of the enzyme. Specific issues such as tissue distribution and regulatory pathways are discussed in this review, with particular emphasis on the role of 1alpha-HYD in renal calcium/phosphate homeostasis.