Bridging the translational gap: what can synaptopathies tell us about autism?

Multiple molecular pathways and cellular processes have been implicated in the neurobiology of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. There is a current focus on synaptic gene conditions, or synaptopathies, which refer to clinical conditions associated with rare genetic variants disrupting genes involved in synaptic biology. Synaptopathies are commonly associated with autism and developmental delay and may be associated with a range of other neuropsychiatric outcomes. Altered synaptic biology is suggested by both preclinical and clinical studies in autism based on evidence of differences in early brain structural development and altered glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission potentially perturbing excitatory and inhibitory balance. This review focusses on the NRXN-NLGN-SHANK pathway, which is implicated in the synaptic assembly, trans-synaptic signalling, and synaptic functioning. We provide an overview of the insights from preclinical molecular studies of the pathway. Concentrating on NRXN1 deletion and SHANK3 mutations, we discuss emerging understanding of cellular processes and electrophysiology from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) models derived from individuals with synaptopathies, neuroimaging and behavioural findings in animal models of Nrxn1 and Shank3 synaptic gene conditions, and key findings regarding autism features, brain and behavioural phenotypes from human clinical studies of synaptopathies. The identification of molecular-based biomarkers from preclinical models aims to advance the development of targeted therapeutic treatments. However, it remains challenging to translate preclinical animal models and iPSC studies to interpret human brain development and autism features. We discuss the existing challenges in preclinical and clinical synaptopathy research, and potential solutions to align methodologies across preclinical and clinical research. Bridging the translational gap between preclinical and clinical studies will be necessary to understand biological mechanisms, to identify targeted therapies, and ultimately to progress towards personalised approaches for complex neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism.

A review of the cognitive impact of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric associated copy number variants

The heritability of intelligence or general cognitive ability is estimated at 41% and 66% in children and adults respectively. Many rare copy number variants are associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions (ND-CNV), including schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders, and may contribute to the observed variability in cognitive ability. Here, we reviewed studies of intelligence quotient or cognitive function in ND-CNV carriers, from both general population and clinical cohorts, to understand the cognitive impact of ND-CNV in both contexts and identify potential genotype-specific cognitive phenotypes. We reviewed aggregate studies of sets ND-CNV broadly linked to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions, and genotype-first studies of a subset of 12 ND-CNV robustly associated with schizophrenia and autism. Cognitive impacts were observed across ND-CNV in both general population and clinical cohorts, with reports of phenotypic heterogeneity. Evidence for ND-CNV-specific impacts were limited by a small number of studies and samples sizes. A comprehensive understanding of the cognitive impact of ND-CNVs would be clinically informative and could identify potential educational needs for ND-CNV carriers. This could improve genetic counselling for families impacted by ND-CNV, and clinical outcomes for those with complex needs.

The Synaptic Gene Study: Design and Methodology to Identify Neurocognitive Markers in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome and NRXN1 Deletions

Synaptic gene conditions, i.e., “synaptopathies,” involve disruption to genes expressed at the synapse and account for between 0.5 and 2% of autism cases. They provide a unique entry point to understanding the molecular and biological mechanisms underpinning autism-related phenotypes. Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS, also known as 22q13 deletion syndrome) and NRXN1 deletions (NRXN1ds) are two synaptopathies associated with autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). PMS often incorporates disruption to the SHANK3 gene, implicated in excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding, whereas the NRXN1 gene encodes neurexin-1, a presynaptic cell adhesion protein; both are implicated in trans-synaptic signaling in the brain. Around 70% of individuals with PMS and 43–70% of those with NRXN1ds receive a diagnosis of autism, suggesting that alterations in synaptic development may play a crucial role in explaining the aetiology of autism. However, a substantial amount of heterogeneity exists between conditions. Most individuals with PMS have moderate to profound intellectual disability (ID), while those with NRXN1ds have no ID to severe ID. Speech abnormalities are common to both, although appear more severe in PMS. Very little is currently known about the neurocognitive underpinnings of phenotypic presentations in PMS and NRXN1ds. The Synaptic Gene (SynaG) study adopts a gene-first approach and comprehensively assesses these two syndromic forms of autism. The study compliments preclinical efforts within AIMS-2-TRIALS focused on SHANK3 and NRXN1. The aims of the study are to (1) establish the frequency of autism diagnosis and features in individuals with PMS and NRXN1ds, (2) to compare the clinical profile of PMS, NRXN1ds, and individuals with ‘idiopathic’ autism (iASD), (3) to identify mechanistic biomarkers that may account for autistic features and/or heterogeneity in clinical profiles, and (4) investigate the impact of second or multiple genetic hits on heterogeneity in clinical profiles. In the current paper we describe our methodology for phenotyping the sample and our planned comparisons, with information on the necessary adaptations made during the global COVID-19 pandemic. We also describe the demographics of the data collected thus far, including 25 PMS, 36 NRXN1ds, 33 iASD, and 52 NTD participants, and present an interim analysis of autistic features and adaptive functioning.

Alterations in Diffusion Measures of White Matter Integrity Associated with Healthy Aging

This study aimed to characterize age-related white matter changes by evaluating patterns of overlap between the linear association of age with fractional anisotropy (FA) with mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD). Specifically, we assessed patterns of overlap between diffusion measures of normal appearing white matter by covarying for white matter hyperintensity (WMH) load, as WMHs are thought to increase with age and impact diffusion measures. Seventy-nine healthy adults aged between 18 and 75 years took part in the study. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data were based on 61 directions acquired with a b-value of 2,000. We found five main patterns of overlap: FA alone (15.95%); FA and RD (31.90%); FA and AD (12.99%); FA, RD, and AD (27.93%); and FA, RD, and MD (8.79%). We showed that cognitively healthy aging adults had low WMH load, which subsequently had minimal effect on diffusion measures. We discuss how patterns of overlap may reflect underlying biological changes observed with aging such as loss of myelination, axonal damage, as well as mild microstructural and chronic white matter impairments. This study contributes to understanding the underlying causes of degeneration in specific regions of the brain and highlights the importance of considering the impact of WMHs in aging studies of white matter.

White Matter Changes in HIV+ Women with a History of Cocaine Dependence

Cocaine use is associated with the transmission of human immunodeficiency (HIV) virus through risky sexual behavior. In HIV+ individuals, cocaine use is linked with poor health outcomes, including HIV-medication non-adherence and faster disease progression. Both HIV and cocaine dependence are associated with reduced integrity of cerebral white matter (WM), but the effects of HIV during cocaine abstinence have not yet been explored. We used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to understand the effect of combined HIV+ serostatus and former cocaine dependence on cerebral WM integrity. DTI data obtained from 15 HIV+ women with a history of cocaine dependence (COC+/HIV+) and 21 healthy females were included in the analysis. Diffusion-based measures [fractional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusivity (RD), mean diffusivity, and axial diffusivity] were examined using tract-based spatial statistics and region-of-interest analyses. In a whole-brain analysis, COC+/HIV+ women showed significantly reduced FA and increased RD in all major WM tracts, except the left corticospinal tract for RD. The tract with greatest percentage of voxels showing significant between-group differences was the forceps minor (FA: 75.6%, RD: 59.7%). These widespread changes in diffusion measures indicate an extensive neuropathological effect of HIV and former cocaine dependence on WM.

Structure-Based design, synthesis and sAR of a novel series of thiopheneamidine urokinase plasminogen activator inhibitors

The serine protease urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) is thought to play a central role in tumor metastasis and angiogenesis. Molecular modeling studies suggest that 5-thiomethylthiopheneamidine inhibits uPA by binding at the S1 pocket of the active site. Further structure based elaboration of this residue resulted in a novel class of potent and selective inhibitors of uPA.

Synthesis of thiophene-2-carboxamidines containing 2-aminothiazoles and their biological evaluation as urokinase inhibitors

The serine protease urokinase (uPa) has been implicated in the progression of both breast and prostate cancer. Utilizing structure based design, the synthesis of a series of substituted 4-[2-amino-1,3-thiazolyl]-thiophene-2-carboxamidines is described. Further optimization of this series by substitution of the terminal amine yielded urokinase inhibitors with excellent activities.

Activin A and TGF-beta stimulate phosphorylation of focal adhesion proteins and cytoskeletal reorganization in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

Activin A and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta) are members of a common family of cytokines that bind to and stimulate serine/threonine kinase receptors. Activin A and TGF-beta are important during embryonic development exerting both positive and negative effects on cell growth. In the adult organism, they function in processes such as tissue repair, cellular proliferation, and differentiation. Although activin A and TGF-beta often induce opposite functional outcomes in specific cells; proliferation or differentiation, both were found to stimulate the formation of actin stress fibers and focal adhesions in serum-starved rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cells. These structural changes were accompanied by phosphorylation of the focal adhesion proteins, paxillin, and p130(cas). Similar cytoskeletal and biochemical changes were observed with the vasoactive agonist angiotensin II. Activation of the ERK/MAP kinase pathway has been implicated in the migration in certain cell types. However, while activin A, TGF-beta, and angiotensin II all stimulated ERK activity in RASM cells, only activin A and angiotensin II stimulated migration. TGF-beta failed to illicit a chemotactic response. Furthermore, pharmacologic inhibition of MEK activity failed to block migration in response to activin A and angiotensin II, indicating RASM migration can occur independent of ERK activity. These results suggest that TGF-beta and activin A share several signaling pathways with angiotensin II leading to cytoskeletal remodeling and ERK activation, but there are distinct differences regarding the effect of these agonists on cellular migration.

Novel cardiovascular actions of the activins

Proliferation and directed migration of vascular cells are key components in vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and restenosis following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. However, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the control of vascular cell proliferation or migration at the tissue level remain largely undefined. Molecules contributing to these processes are elaborated by distinct cell types and act in both autocrine and paracrine modes. They include two broad classes, polypeptide growth factors and vasoactive G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonists. Examples of the former, such as platelet-derived growth factor, bind to and activate cell surface receptor tyrosine kinases, initiating intracellular biochemical signaling pathways associated with cell proliferation or migration. In contrast, recent evidence suggests that vasoactive GPCR agonists (e.g. angiotensin II, endothelin-1, alpha-thrombin) elicit cell growth indirectly by inducing the production of autocrine or paracrine factors in vascular cells. Recent studies have identified activin A as a novel component of conditioned medium obtained from GPCR agonist-stimulated vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Although activin A alone only weakly stimulated rat aortic SMC DNA synthesis, it demonstrated a potent co-mitogenic effect in combination with either epidermal growth factor (EGF) or heparin binding EGF-like growth factor in these cells, increasing DNA synthesis by up to 5- and 4-fold respectively. Furthermore, in a rat carotid-injury model, activin A mRNA was upregulated within 6 h after injury, followed by increases in immunoreactive protein detected in the expanding neointima 7 to 14 days later. Taken together, these results indicate that activin A is a common vascular SMC-derived growth factor induced by vasoactive agonists that may, either alone or in combination with other factors, contribute to fibroproliferative vascular diseases.

Epiregulin is a potent vascular smooth muscle cell-derived mitogen induced by angiotensin II, endothelin-1, and thrombin

Vasoactive GTP-binding protein-coupled receptor agonists such as angiotensin II (AII), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and alpha-thrombin (alpha-Thr) have been reported to indirectly stimulate vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation by regulating the expression of one or more autocrine growth factors. Using ion-exchange, gel-filtration, and reverse-phase chromatographic purification methods, we isolated a major mitogenic protein present in AII-stimulated rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cell conditioned medium. Twenty N-terminal amino acids of the purified peptide were identified, and they had 75% amino acid sequence identity with mouse epiregulin, an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-related growth factor. We cloned the cDNA for rat epiregulin to determine its pattern of expression in G-protein-coupled receptor agonist-stimulated cells and confirm its activity as a mitogen. After treatment of RASM cells with AII, ET-1, or alpha-Thr for 1 h, induction of two epiregulin transcripts was observed, including a 4.8-kb transcript and a novel transcript of approximately 1.2 kb. Recombinant rat epiregulin was strongly mitogenic for RASM cells, stimulating DNA synthesis to levels similar to those induced by serum or platelet-derived growth factor and approximately 3-fold above that observed with saturating concentrations of EGF. In addition, epiregulin caused rapid EGF receptor activation in RASM cells. However, relative levels of EGF receptor tyrosine phosphorylation stimulated by epiregulin were less than those induced by EGF or betacellulin. Taken together, these results indicate that epiregulin is a potent VSMC-secreted mitogen, induced in common by AII, ET-1, and alpha-Thr, that may contribute to VSMC proliferation and vascular remodeling stimulated by vasoactive agonists.

Stimulation of activin A expression in rat aortic smooth muscle cells by thrombin and angiotensin II correlates with neointimal formation in vivo

Vasoactive GTP-binding protein-coupled receptor agonists (e.g., angiotensin II [AII] and alpha-thrombin) stimulate the production of mitogenic factors from vascular smooth muscle cells. In experiments to identify mitogens secreted from AII- or alpha-thrombin-stimulated rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cells, neutralizing antibodies directed against several growth factors (e.g., PDGF and basic fibroblast growth factor [basic FGF]) failed to inhibit the mitogenic activity of conditioned media samples derived from the cells. In this report, we found that polyclonal neutralizing antibodies directed against purified human placental basic FGF reduced the mitogenic activity of AII-stimulated RASM cell-conditioned media and in immunoblot experiments identified a 26-kD protein (14 kD under reducing conditions) that was distinct from basic FGF. After purification from RASM cell-conditioned medium, amino acid sequence analysis identified the protein as activin A, a member of the TGF-beta superfamily. Increased activin A expression was observed after treatment of the RASM cells with AII, alpha-thrombin, and the protein kinase C agonist PMA. In contrast, PDGF-BB or serum caused only a minor induction of this protein. Although activin A alone only weakly stimulated RASM cell DNA synthesis, it demonstrated a potent comitogenic effect in combination with either EGF or heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor in the RASM cells, increasing DNA synthesis by up to fourfold. Furthermore, in a rat carotid injury model, activin A mRNA was upregulated within 6 h after injury followed by increases in immunoreactive protein detected in the expanding neointima 7 and 14 d later. Taken together, these results indicate that activin A is a vascular smooth muscle cell-derived factor induced by vasoactive agonists that may, either alone or in combination with other vascular derived growth factors, have a role in neointimal formation after arterial injury.

Thrombin receptor activation elicits rapid protein tyrosine phosphorylation and stimulation of the raf-1/MAP kinase pathway preceding delayed mitogenesis in cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells: evidence for an obligate autocrine mechanism promoting cell proliferation induced by G-protein-coupled receptor agonist

Treatment of quiescent rat aortic smooth muscle cells with either alpha-thrombin or a thrombin receptor-derived agonist peptide (SFLLRNP) resulted in pronounced increases in [3H]thymidine incorporation that were concentration dependent and reached a maximum of approximately 15-fold above serum-starved controls. However, in contrast to FBS, PDGF-BB, or basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), that initiated DNA synthesis promptly after 16-19 h, thymidine incorporation in response to thrombin was delayed by an additional 3-6 h. Delayed mitogenesis correlated with the appearance of a potent mitogenic activity in conditioned media samples obtained from thrombin-stimulated rat aortic smooth muscle cells, as assayed using Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. This activity was not inhibited by neutralizing antibodies directed against PDGF or bFGF. Furthermore, in the Swiss 3T3 cells, simple addition of either alpha-thrombin or SFLLRNP failed to elicit a significant mitogenic response. In signal transduction studies, both thrombin and SFLLRNP treatment led to rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins with apparent molecular masses of 42, 44, 75, 120, and 190 kD, respectively, as assessed by antiphosphotyrosine immunoblotting. The overall pattern of protein tyrosine phosphorylation was distinct from that observed after PDGF-BB addition. Activation of Raf-1 and the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases p44mapk and p42mapk was also observed. However, the time course and duration of Raf-1/MAP kinase activation after thrombin stimulation were similar to those elicited by PDGF-BB. Taken together, our results indicate that thrombin-stimulated vascular smooth muscle proliferation is delayed and requires the de novo expression of one or more autocrine mitogens. In addition, the rapid induction of discrete intracellular signaling mechanisms by thrombin, including the Raf-1/MAP kinase pathway, appears to be insufficient alone to promote vascular smooth muscle cell mitogenesis.

Orally active endothelin receptor antagonist BMS-182874 suppresses neointimal development in balloon-injured rat carotid arteries

Vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation is an important component in the development of restenosis. Because endothelin (ET) has been reported to act as an SMC mitogen, we postulated that the orally active ETA receptor antagonist BMS-182874 would suppress the development of the intimal lesion that develops in rat carotid arteries after balloon injury. Using cultured rat aortic SMC, we noted that ET-1-stimulated increases in [3H]thymidine incorporation were blocked by BMS-182874. To determine the effect of the drug on intimal lesion formation, we treated rats with BMS-182874 (100 mg/kg orally, p.o.) or vehicle once daily for 3 weeks, beginning 1 week before balloon injury. Two weeks after injury, drug-treated rats had a 35% decrease in lesion area and a 34% decrease in the lesion/media ratio as compared with the vehicle-treated rats. In situ hybridization (ISH) analysis of balloon-injured rat carotid arteries showed an increase in ETA receptor mRNA. These data support the concept that ETA receptor activation contributes to intimal lesion formation by promotion of SMC proliferation and suggest a potential use for ETA receptor antagonists in the amelioration of hyperproliferative vascular diseases, including restenosis.

Angiotensin II stimulation of rapid paxillin tyrosine phosphorylation correlates with the formation of focal adhesions in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that has been also implicated in vascular hyperproliferative diseases, including atherosclerosis and restenosis following angioplasty. Treatment of cultured, serum-starved rat aortic smooth muscle cells with angiotensin II causes rapid protein tyrosine phosphorylation that precedes cell mitogenesis. We have identified two of the phosphoproteins as paxillin (75 kilodaltons) and the tyrosine kinase pp125Fak, both components of actin-associated focal adhesion sites. Angiotensin II stimulated a 5-fold increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation of paxillin and a smaller (1.5-fold) increase in pp125Fak tyrosine phosphorylation. Paxillin tyrosine phosphorylation was evident within 1 minute, and was maximal after 10 minutes. Similar elevated protein tyrosine phosphorylation levels of paxillin were obtained with exposure of the rat aortic smooth muscle cells to peptides endothelin-1 and alpha-thrombin that function, as angiotensin II, through binding to members of the seven transmembrane domain G protein coupled receptors. Angiotensin II treatment also stimulated the production of a well-ordered actin-containing stress fiber network and prominent paxillin-containing focal adhesions. The focal adhesions stained intensely with anti-phosphotyrosine antibody suggesting the tyrosine phosphorylation of paxillin and cytoskeletal reorganization were tightly coupled. Angiotensin II receptor occupancy has been shown previously to lead to protein kinase C activation. However, compared to angiotensin II stimulation, a smaller, delayed increase in paxillin tyrosine phosphorylation was observed following direct protein kinase C activation by the phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate. Paxillin tyrosine phosphorylation was selective for certain agonists since no increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of this protein was observed following exposure to the potent mitogen PDGF. Thus, actin-based cytoskeletal changes involving sites of cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix may play an important role in normal and pathophysiologic smooth muscle cell growth regulation in response to certain angiotensin II-type vasoactive agonists.

Occupation and the carpal tunnel syndrome

Repetitive physical tasks, particularly executed with force or using vibrating hand tools, carry the chief risk of carpal tunnel syndrome for workers. Treatment may require removing the worker from the task or redesigning the task for the worker, while proper attention to ergonomics can prevent carpal tunnel injuries in the first place.

Alterations in expression of p56lck during myeloid differentiation of LSTRA cells

The src-related tyrosine kinase p56lck is overexpressed in the mouse leukemia cell line LSTRA. Although p56lck is thought to be a specific T-cell marker, we found that LSTRA cells can be induced to differentiate towards macrophages or granulocytes by the tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate or the cyclic nucleotide analogue, dibutyryl cAMP, respectively. Treatment of LSTRA cells with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate resulted in marked alterations in morphology including increased size, adherence, and spreading on culture dishes. These cells also ceased proliferating, accumulated in G0-G1 and expressed nonspecific esterase activity. In contrast, although LSTRA cells treated with dibutyryl cAMP stopped growing and accumulated in G0-G1, these cells expressed functionally active chemotactic peptide receptors and became irregular and granular in appearance. Differentiation of LSTRA cells was also found to be associated with altered expression of p56lck. Thus, while 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate treatment caused the cells to produce higher molecular weight forms of p56lck, dibutyryl cAMP treatment resulted in increased expression of total p56lck mRNA as well as the more mature type II p56lck mRNA transcript. There were no major alterations in p56lck kinase activity in vitro following differentiation. Phospholipase C gamma and p21rasGAP, two putative substrates for the tyrosine kinase activity of p56lck, were found to be constitutively phosphorylated on tyrosine in LSTRA cells. Tyrosine phosphorylation of these substrates was not altered following differentiation. These results indicate that LSTRA cells are relatively early precursors that have the capacity to develop along the myeloid differentiation pathway.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Uneven distribution of protein kinase C-alpha and -beta isozymes in human sarcomas and carcinomas

Protein kinase C (PKC) represents a family of structurally related Ser/Tre kinases which are involved in mitogenic signalling and may contribute to human neoplasia. To address this issue, the messenger RNA and protein levels of PKC isoenzymes alpha and beta were analyzed in several human sarcoma- and carcinoma-derived cell lines. Carcinomas contained low or undetectable levels of either PKC-alpha or PKC-beta. Sarcomas exhibited similar or increased PKC expression compared to human diploid fibroblasts. Moreover, sarcoma cell lines expressing one PKC isoform did not contain detectable levels of the other. When PKC was depleted from the tumor cells, we observed that the PKC overexpressing sarcomas had reduced their malignant properties as determined by their ability to grow in semisolid medium. In addition, epidermal growth factor-stimulated and erbB2-transformed fibroblasts exhibited enhanced cell growth in the absence of PKC. We propose a model for the effect of PKC as a negative regulator of proliferation in epithelial cells and a growth promoter in fibroblasts.

Endothelin-1 and angiotensin-II stimulate delayed mitogenesis in cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells: evidence for common signaling mechanisms

The vasoactive peptides endothelin-1 (ET-1) and angiotensin-II (AII) have been implicated in chronic hypertension and may play important roles in related vascular diseases such as restenosis and atherosclerosis. Using a rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cell model, both ET-1 and AII induced concentration-dependent delayed increases in DNA synthesis relative to that in the serum-deprived controls. Stimulation of DNA synthesis was maximal at 100 nM for each peptide. All treatment of RASM cells resulted in a greater mitogenic effect (4- to 7-fold) than that observed for ET-1 (3-fold). When added in the presence of AII, ET-1 had a supplemental effect on DNA synthesis (5- to 10-fold above control). Although RASM cells expressed both ETA and AT1 receptors, radioligand binding experiments indicated that approximately 10-fold as many AT1 receptors as ETA receptors were present. In signal transduction studies, ET-1 and AII each elicited concentration-dependent increases in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. ET-1 and AII also stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism and phosphorylation of a specific substrate for protein kinase-C. The release of total inositol phosphates in response to ET-1 and AII was concentration dependent and inhibited by the ETA receptor-selective antagonist BQ-123 and the AT1 receptor-selective antagonist losartan, respectively. In addition, tyrosine phosphorylation of 120- and 75-kilodalton proteins as well as the mitogen-activated protein kinases p44mapk and p42mapk was observed within 5 min of the addition of either ET-1 or AII. Taken together, these data indicate that ET-1 and AII may promote smooth muscle cell growth through common intracellular signaling mechanisms.

Angiotensin II induces delayed mitogenesis and cellular proliferation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. Correlation with the expression of specific endogenous growth factors and reversal by suramin

By means of a rat aortic smooth muscle (RASM) cell culture model, the effects of angiotensin II (AII) on early proto-oncogene gene expression, DNA synthesis, and cell proliferation were measured and compared to known mitogens. In 24-h [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays, AII was found to be a weak mitogen when compared to potent mitogens such as fetal bovine serum and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). In contrast, when assays were carried out for 48 h, AII induced a significant dose-dependent stimulation of DNA synthesis, which more than doubled at 3 nM AII, and was maximal (five- to eightfold above control) at 100 nM AII. Treatment of cells with the AII type 1 receptor antagonist losartan inhibited the mitogenic effects of AII. AII also stimulated smooth muscle cell proliferation, as indicated by an absolute increase in cell number after AII stimulation of RASM cells for 5 d. AII stimulation of RASM cell growth correlated with the increased expression of specific endogenous growth factors, including transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) and PDGF A-chain. However, addition of either PDGF- or TGF-beta 1-neutralizing antibodies failed to significantly reduce the delayed mitogenic effects induced by AII. In contrast, we found that AII-stimulated mitogenesis could be inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by the growth factor inhibitor drug suramin. Taken together, our results indicate that enhanced endogenous growth factor expression may represent the direct mechanism by which AII promotes smooth muscle cell growth in some vascular hyperproliferative diseases.

Effects of thrombin receptor activating peptide on phosphoinositide hydrolysis and protein kinase C activation in cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells: evidence for "tethered-ligand" activation of smooth muscle cell thrombin receptors

Phosphoinositide hydrolysis and protein kinase C (PKC) activation were examined in response to treatment of rat aortic smooth muscle cells with alpha-thrombin and a seven amino acid thrombin receptor activating peptide (TRAP-7; SFLLRNP). alpha-Thrombin and TRAP-7 stimulated total inositol phosphate (IP) accumulation and phosphorylation of a specific endogenous substrate for activated PKC. Acetylated TRAP-7 and "reverse" TRAP (FSLLRNPNDKYEPF) were ineffective in stimulating signal transduction. The active site inhibitor, MD805 (argatroban), and the anion-binding exosite inhibitor, BMS 180,742, reduced the IP response to alpha-thrombin in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, the TRAP-7-induced IP response was not affected by either inhibitor. These data are consistent with the tethered-ligand hypothesis for thrombin receptor activation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells.

Angiotensin II stimulation of rapid protein tyrosine phosphorylation and protein kinase activation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells

In cultured rat aortic smooth muscle cells, angiotensin II (AII) treatment led to increased tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins with apparent molecular masses of 42, 44, 75, and 120 kDa, respectively, as assessed by antiphosphotyrosine immunoblotting. Increased protein tyrosine phosphorylation was observed within 1 min of AII addition and was maximal by 30 min. The overall pattern of AII-stimulated protein tyrosine phosphorylation was distinct from that observed following treatment of rat aortic smooth muscle cells with platelet-derived growth factor-BB. Specific antibodies were used to identify the AII-stimulated 42- and 44-kDa tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins as the "mitogen-activated protein kinases," p42mapk and p44mapk, respectively. Raf-1, a 70-74-kDa serine/threonine protein kinase, was not tyrosine-phosphorylated in response to AII but was found to be hyperphosphorylated as evidenced by retarded protein mobility in SDS gel analysis. Taken together, these data indicate that AII binding to vascular smooth muscle cells leads to rapid activation of a complex cascade of protein kinases, including protein kinase C, Raf-1, MAP kinases, and an undefined intracellular protein tyrosine kinase(s) that may be coordinately involved in signal transduction leading to cell proliferation.

Extradural haematoma: trends in outcome over 35 years

We have reviewed 35 years experience of extradural haemorrhage (EDH) in a large neurosurgical unit, based in two university hospitals, one dealing exclusively with children and the other a general hospital. A steady reduction in the mortality rate from 29 to 8.5% occurred during that period. A trend towards earlier diagnosis is noted and an increasing proportion of rural patients has been evident throughout the study period. During the time-period studied there were many significant developments: the establishment of a modern neurosurgical unit, the evolution of an intensive care unit, the availability of CT head scanning and the formal organization of rapid retrieval to service country areas. However, no single feature could be identified as the major contributor to falling mortality results. Clinical awareness and early diagnosis are the keys to successful management of EDH.

Platelet-derived growth factor stimulation of GTPase-activating protein tyrosine phosphorylation in control and c-H-ras-expressing NIH 3T3 cells correlates with p21ras activation

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulation of NIH 3T3 cells leads to the rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of the GTPase-activating protein (GAP) and an associated 64- to 62-kDa tyrosine-phosphorylated protein (p64/62). To assess the functions of these proteins, we evaluated their phosphorylation state in normal NIH 3T3 cells as well as in cells transformed by oncogenically activated v-H-ras or overexpression of c-H-ras genes. No significant GAP tyrosine phosphorylation was observed in unstimulated cultures, while PDGF-BB induced rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of GAP in all cell lines analyzed. In NIH 3T3 cells, we found that PDGF stimulation led to the recovery of between 37 and 52% of GAP molecules by immunoprecipitation with monoclonal antiphosphotyrosine antibodies. Furthermore, PDGF exposure led to a rapid and sustained increase in the levels of p21ras bound to GTP, with kinetics similar to those observed for GAP tyrosine phosphorylation. The PDGF-induced increases in GTP-bound p21ras in NIH 3T3 cells were comparable to the steady-state level observed in serum-starved c-H-ras-overexpressing transformants, conditions in which these cells maintained high rates of DNA synthesis. These results imply that the level of p21ras activation following PDGF stimulation of NIH 3T3 cells is sufficient to support mitogenic stimulation. Addition of PDGF to c-H-ras-overexpressing cells also resulted in a rapid and sustained increase in GTP-bound p21ras. In these cells GAP, but not p64/62, showed increased tyrosine phosphorylation, with kinetics similar to those observed for increased GTP-bound p21ras. All of these findings support a role for GAP tyrosine phosphorylation in p21ras activation and mitogenic signaling.

Demonstration of an activated platelet-derived growth factor autocrine pathway and its role in human tumor cell proliferation in vitro

In tumor cells expressing platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) ligand(s) and receptor(s), immunoblot analysis established tyrosine phosphorylation of PDGF receptors (PDGFRs) in the absence of any exogenous ligand, implying chronic receptor activation. Exposure to suramin resulted in diminished receptor autophosphorylation and/or up-regulation of receptor protein. In a subset of such tumor lines, there was a marked reduction in DNA synthesis in response to suramin or PDGF-neutralizing antiserum. These findings demonstrate that autocrine PDGF stimulation contributes to proliferation of some human tumors and that agents which interfere with ligand-receptor interactions at the cell surface can significantly interfere in this process.

Altered expression of a mouse epidermal cytoskeletal protein is a sensitive marker for proliferation induced by tumor promoters

Treatment of mouse skin with tumor promoters such as 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) or 8-methoxypsoralen and ultraviolet light (PUVA) caused a marked decrease in the expression of p48, an acidic epidermal protein. This protein was specifically identified in mouse epidermis and confluent PAM 212 mouse keratinocytes in culture. Extraction of p48 required strong denaturing conditions (greater than 8 M urea) as well as a reducing agent, indicating that this protein was associated with the cytoskeleton. Positive immunoblot staining of p48 with antikeratin monoclonal antibodies following two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis suggested that this protein may be related to the acidic keratins. The sensitivity of this protein to topically applied mitogens and tumor promoters implies that p48 expression is important in normal epidermal cell growth and differentiation.

Characterization of platelet-derived growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptor expression in asbestos-induced rat mesothelioma

Although altered expression of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a hallmark of human mesothelioma, expression of PDGF receptors has not been characterized in this cell type. In addition, the expression of this growth factor and its cognate receptor in rodent mesothelioma has not been investigated. In this study, examination of transformed mesothelial cells derived from asbestos-induced rat mesotheliomas revealed that these cells expressed high affinity PDGF receptors (Kd = 0.5 nM) and receptor number was 1.6 x 10(5)/cell. Western analysis using antibodies specific for either the alpha-type or beta-type PDGF receptor and Northern analysis using probes specific for alpha- and beta-type receptor RNA transcripts indicated that these cells expressed beta-type PDGF receptors but that alpha-type receptors could not be detected. However, when the mesothelioma-derived cells were examined for the expression of PDGF, no expression of this growth factor could be detected. The transformed cells expressed no detectable A- or B-chain PDGF RNA transcripts; and using a competitive enzyme immunoassay specific for isoforms containing the B chain of PDGF and a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay specific for A-chain-containing isoforms, neither AA, nor AB, nor BB isoforms of this growth factor could be detected in medium conditioned by these cells. The absence of alterations in PDGF expression in rat mesothelioma, in contrast to the data for the human disease, suggests that the production of this growth factor by transformed mesothelial cells may be species specific.

Activation of the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor leads to the rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of GTPase-activating protein and activation of cellular p21ras

We have previously reported that platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induced tyrosine phosphorylation of GTPase-activating protein (GAP) in intact quiescent fibroblasts under conditions in which insulin and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were ineffective (Molloy et al., 1988). In the present study, we have provided evidence that colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) is capable of inducing tyrosine phosphorylation of GAP and its associated cellular proteins, p62 and p190, in NIH3T3 cells overexpressing the human CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R). However, the extent of GAP tyrosine phosphorylation induced by CSF-1 was approximately 10% of that induced by PDGF-BB in the NIH3T3 fibroblasts. Despite this significant difference, both PDGF-BB and CSF-1 increased the activation of p21ras, the extent of which correlated well with the mitogenic response induced by each growth factor in these cells. Taken together, our findings provide evidence for a possible role of tyrosine phosphorylation of GAP and GAP-associated phosphoproteins in regulating transduction of CSF-1-induced mitogenic signals through p21ras activation.

Development of a highly efficient expression cDNA cloning system: application to oncogene isolation

We developed an expression cDNA cloning system capable of generating high-complexity libraries with unidirectionally inserted cDNA fragments and allowing efficient plasmid rescue. As an application of this system, a cDNA library was constructed from an NIH 3T3 transformant induced by mouse hepatocellular carcinoma DNA. Transfection of NIH 3T3 cells by the library DNA led to the detection of several transformed foci from which identical plasmids with transforming ability could be rescued. Structure and sequence analysis of the cDNA clones revealed that the oncogene was created by recombinational events involving an unknown gene and the mouse homologue of the B-raf protooncogene. Detection of the same genetic rearrangement in independent primary transformants implied that generation of the oncogene occurred within the tumor rather than during DNA transfection or cDNA library construction. The high frequency at which clones were identified and the large sizes of some of the transforming cDNA inserts isolated suggest wide applicability of this mammalian expression cloning system for isolating cDNAs of biologic interest.

The erbB-2 mitogenic signaling pathway: tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase C-gamma and GTPase-activating protein does not correlate with erbB-2 mitogenic potency

The erbB-2 gene product, gp185erbB-2, unlike the structurally related epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR), exhibits constitutive kinase and transforming activity. We used a chimeric EGFR/erbB-2 expression vector to compare the mitogenic signaling pathway of the erbB-2 kinase with that of the EGFR, at similar levels of expression, in response to EGF stimulation. The EGFR/erbB-2 chimera was significantly more active in inducing DNA synthesis than the EGFR when either was expressed in NIH 3T3 cells. Analysis of biochemical pathways implicated in signal transduction by growth factor receptors indicated that both phospholipase C type gamma (PLC-gamma) and the p21ras GTPase-activating protein (GAP) are substrates for the erbB-2 kinase in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. However, under conditions in which activation of the erbB-2 kinase induced DNA synthesis at least fivefold more efficiently than the EGFR, the levels of erbB-2- or EGFR-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma and GAP were comparable. In addition, the stoichiometry of tyrosine phosphorylation of these putative substrates by erbB-2 appeared to be at least an order of magnitude lower than that induced by platelet-derived growth factor receptors at comparable levels of mitogenic potency. Thus, our results indicate that differences in tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma and GAP do not account for the differences in mitogenic activity of the erbB-2 kinase compared with either the EGFR or platelet-derived growth factor receptor in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts.

Arachnoid cyst presenting as an extradural haematoma

A case of extradural haematoma as the presenting feature of an arachnoid cyst is described. Haemorrhagic complications of arachnoid cysts are well known, but extradural haematoma is rare. A possible pathogenetic mechanism is proposed and the treatment of asymptomatic arachnoid cysts is discussed.

Extradural haemorrhage in infancy and childhood. A review of 35 years' experience in South Australia

One hundred and two paediatric cases of extradural haemorrhage (EDH) were treated in Adelaide, South Australia, during the period 1954-1988; 10 were infants (0-2 years) and 92 were children (2-14 years). There were 9 deaths (mortality 8.8%). Long-term disabilities severe enough to interfere with school and/or employment were seen in 8 (7.8%) survivors. This relatively low number of adverse outcomes is partly an expression of a low incidence (5.9%) of associated intradural haematomas and few high-velocity impacts due to vehicular accidents. There is reason to believe that the results of treatment have improved in the decade 1977-1988. We attribute this in part to early diagnosis by computed tomography (CT), but a contributory factor may be earlier referrals from country centres to a paediatric trauma centre and rapid transfer, by air or road, by medical retrieval teams.

Overexpression of phospholipase C-gamma in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts results in increased phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis in response to platelet-derived growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor

Overexpression of phospholipase C-gamma in fibroblasts led to increased tyrosine phosphorylation of this enzyme in response to platelet-derived growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. This correlated with increased phosphoinositide release but not with enhanced mitogenicity. Thus, phospholipase C-gamma-mediated phosphoinositide metabolism may not be limiting in the signaling pathways initiated by these growth factors.

Expression of protein kinase CI in NIH 3T3 cells increases its growth response to specific activators

In order to investigate the effects of protein kinase C (PKC) expression on cellular growth and morphology, we established mouse fibroblast cell populations which expressed the rat pkc-gamma gene under the control of a retroviral promoter. NIH 3T3 stable transfectants displayed a three-fold increase in total PKC levels. These cells appeared morphologically unaltered but exhibited a stronger mitogenic response to 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and cardiolipin (CL) as well as enhanced growth in semisolid medium in the presence of TPA. Thus, at these enzyme levels, PKC conferred growth advantages to NIH 3T3 cells only in response to specific activators.

PDGF induction of tyrosine phosphorylation of GTPase activating protein

The cascade of biochemical events triggered by growth factors and their receptors is central to understanding normal cell-growth regulation and its subversion in cancer. Ras proteins (p21ras) have been implicated in signal transduction pathways used by several growth factors, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). These guanine nucleotide-binding Ras proteins specifically interact with a cellular GTPase-activating protein (GAP). Here we report that in intact quiescent fibroblasts, both AA and BB homodimers of PDGF rapidly induce tyrosine phosphorylation of GAP under conditions in which insulin and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) are ineffective. Although GAP is located predominantly in the cytosol, most tyrosine-phosphorylated GAP is associated with the cell membrane, the site of p21ras biological activity. These results provide a direct biochemical link between activated PDGF-receptor tyrosine kinases and the p21ras-GAP mitogenic signalling system.

Autocrine mechanism for v-sis transformation requires cell surface localization of internally activated growth factor receptors

v-sis represents a prototype for the class of oncogenes that encode growth factors. Whether its platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-like product functionally activates its receptors within the cell or at the cell surface has potential implications in efforts to intervene with the v-sis-transformed phenotype. We demonstrate that intracellular as well as cell surface forms of two PDGF receptor gene products are tyrosine phosphorylated in v-sis transformants. In a chemically defined medium in which cell growth was dependent on v-sis expression, proliferation was partially inhibited by PDGF neutralizing antibody but completely blocked by suramin. Suramin treatment resulted in a marked reduction in tyrosine phosphorylated cell surface PDGF receptors but had no effect on the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of intracellular receptor species. All of these findings demonstrate that the v-sis-encoded mitogen can bind and activate its receptors internally but that activated receptors must achieve a cell surface location in order to functionally couple with intracellular mitogenic signaling pathways.

The calcium signal for Balb/MK keratinocyte terminal differentiation induces sustained alterations in phosphoinositide metabolism without detectable protein kinase C activation

Balb/MK keratinocytes require epidermal growth factor for proliferation and terminally differentiate in response to elevated extracellular Ca2+ concentrations. The molecular pathways controlling cell differentiation in this system have yet to be established. We show that a dramatic and sustained activation of phosphoinositide metabolism is produced upon addition of Ca2+ to Balb/MK cultures. The pattern of inositol trisphosphate isomers released in response to Ca2+ challenge appeared to be atypical. Inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate release was observed by 30s and was produced earlier than any alteration in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate levels. Concomitant with the liberation of inositol phosphates, an increased production of diacylglycerol was observed. Despite a 3-fold increase in diacylglycerol levels detected even at 12 h after Ca2+ addition, no evidence of functional activation or down-regulation of protein kinase C was found. This was established by measuring p80 phosphorylation, epidermal growth factor binding, and protein kinase C levels by immunoblotting. Analysis of the diacylglycerol generated following Ca2+ addition to Balb/MK cells revealed that a significant proportion of that lipid was an alkyl ether glyceride molecular species. Therefore, it is possible that this diacylglycerol molecular species may play a role in the Ca2+-induced differentiation program of Balb/MK cells through mechanisms other than stimulation of classical protein kinase C.

Autocrine interaction between TGF alpha and the EGF-receptor: quantitative requirements for induction of the malignant phenotype

Alterations affecting the epidermal growth factor (EGF)/transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha)-responsive mitogenic pathway are frequently detected in malignancies. In particular, the EGF-receptor (EGFR) molecule has been found overexpressed in a number of human tumors, and TGF alpha is produced by a large array of tumor cells. Gene transfer experiments have previously demonstrated that expression of either TGF alpha or EGFR alone is not sufficient to induce the transformed phenotype in NIH3T3 cells. In this study we sought to investigate the biological effect of expression of TGF alpha and high levels of EGFR in this model system. We demonstrate that the gene for TGF alpha acts as a potent oncogene in NIH3T3 cells overexpressing EGFR (NIH-EGFR, greater than 10(6) EGFR). We further show that TGF alpha directly stimulates proliferation of the cell in which it is produced and provide evidence that the extracellular compartment of the transformed cell is the major site of interaction between TGF alpha and EGFR. Analysis of human tumor cell lines revealed a strong correlation between expression of TGF alpha and overexpression of EGFR. Moreover, high levels of EGF-independent tyrosine phosphorylation of the EGFR were detected both in NIH-EGFR expressing TGF alpha and in high EGFR and TGF alpha coexpressing human tumor cell lines. Thus, the two events instituting the EGFR/TGF alpha autocrine loop responsible for transformation in vitro may play a role in the development of some human malignancies.

Epidermal growth factor activates phosphoinositide turnover and protein kinase C in BALB/MK keratinocytes

BALB/MK is a nontransformed epithelial cell line derived from primary BALB/c mouse keratinocytes that requires epidermal growth factor (EGF) for growth. Using a defined-medium culture system, we investigated the role of physiological concentrations of EGF on phosphoinositide metabolism in these cells. The results show that EGF rapidly activates phospholipase-C mediated phosphoinositide metabolism resulting in the generation of the second messengers inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and diacylglycerol. These metabolites control intracellular Ca2+ levels and activate protein kinase C, respectively. Protein kinase C activation in response to EGF was evidenced by the phosphorylation of the acidic 80 kilodalton endogenous protein substrate (p80) specific for this kinase. In contrast, insulin, which acts in concert with EGF to cause BALB/MK cell proliferation, had no effect on phosphoinositide metabolism nor led to any additional stimulation when added in combination with EGF. Taken together, our results show that rapid alterations in phosphoinositide metabolism and protein kinase C activation are associated with the normal mitogenic response of keratinocytes to EGF.

Effect of retinoid deficiency on keratin expression in mouse bladder

Twelve to sixteen weeks following treatment of CF-1 mice with a vitamin A-deficient diet, characteristic signs of retinoid deficiency including body wasting, poor hair coat, altered gait, decreased mobility, and xerophthalmia were observed. Histological examination of tissue sections from these mice revealed dramatic changes in the urinary tract epithelium. The normal transitional epithelium was replaced by a stratified squamous epithelium that resembled hyperproliferative epidermis. Using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, a number of new proteins were found to be synthesized in vitamin A-deficient bladder when compared to tissue from control bladders. Using antikeratin antibodies in immunoblot experiments, we found that at least some of the newly synthesized proteins were keratins. These proteins, which comprise the intermediate filaments of the cytoskeleton, are known to be specific markers of epithelial differentiation. Of particular interest was the appearance of a Mr 67,000 basic and Mr 61,000 acidic keratin pair, characteristic of terminally differentiating murine epidermal cells. Unexpectedly, several other keratins, previously associated only with hyperproliferative epidermis, were also expressed in the tissue. These results demonstrate that vitamin A deficiency in the mouse leads to the appearance of a squamous metaplasia in the urinary tract epithelium that is characterized by the expression of distinct epidermal keratins.

Keratin polypeptide expression in mouse epidermis and cultured epidermal cells

Adult mouse epidermis contains up to 11 distinct keratin polypeptides, as resolved by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. These include both basic (Type II; 67-, 65-, 63-, 62-, and 60-kDa) and acidic (Type I; 61- to 59-, 54-, 52-, 49-, and 48-kDa) keratins that exhibit multiple isoelectric forms. Several, but not all, of these keratins, identified by immunoblotting, were found to be actively synthesized in the skin when assayed in short-term pulse-labeling experiments. When compared to the adult, newborn mouse epidermis expresses fewer keratin subunits. However, greater amounts of keratins associated with differentiated suprabasal cells and stratum corneum, which is more pronounced morphologically in the newborn, were identified. We also observed strain-specific differences in the expression of a Type I acidic keratin. This 61-kDa (pI, approx. 5.3) keratin was produced exclusively by the CF-1 mouse and, based on peptide mapping, appeared to be related to the acidic 59-kDa keratin that was identified in this strain as well as all other mouse strains. The 61-kDa keratin was not expressed in vitamin A-deficient animals, suggesting that its appearance may be related to a retinoid-dependent posttranslational modification. In comparison to keratin expression in vivo, primary mouse keratinocyte monolayer cultures maintained in low Ca2+ (less than 0.08 mM) did not express the terminal differentiation keratins of 67-kDa (basic) or 59-kDa (acidic), although enhanced synthesis of the 60-kDa (basic) and the 52-kDa and 59-kDa (acidic) keratins associated with proliferation were observed. In addition, a subpopulation of nonadherent cells was continuously produced by the primary keratinocyte cultures that expressed the 67-kDa (basic) keratin specific for terminal differentiation. When the keratinocyte cultures were induced to terminally differentiate with Ca2+, the overall pattern of keratin expression was not changed significantly. Taken together, these results provide further evidence for the variable nature of keratin expression in mouse epidermal keratinocytes under different growth conditions.

Alterations in the expression of specific epidermal keratin markers in the hairless mouse by the topical application of the tumor promoters 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate

The potent toxin 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) causes chloracne and acts as a tumor promoter in the hairless HRS/J mouse model. In the present study we characterized changes in mouse epidermal keratin expression following a single topical application of TCDD to the skin of hairless (hr/hr) and haired (hr/+) HRS/J mice. Morphologic changes and alterations in keratin biosynthesis following TCDD treatment were compared with those induced by the phorbol ester tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Both TPA and TCDD induced dose-dependent epidermal hyperplasia in hr/hr and hr/+ mice and this was associated with altered keratin subunit expression. In hr/hr mice TCDD caused a pattern of keratin expression that was similar to TPA, characterized by a marked decrease in the synthesis of the Mr 67,000 (basic) and 59,000 (acidic) keratins that are specific markers for suprabasal differentiation in the epidermis. In addition, the synthesis of an acidic keratin of Mr 48,000 and a basic keratin of Mr 62,000 was also decreased. Concomitantly, TCDD caused an increase in the synthesis of a basic keratin of Mr 60,000 and acidic keratins of Mr 54,000, 52,000 and 49,000 that are normally observed in proliferating basal cells and primary epidermal cell cultures. In contrast, while TPA induced similar changes in keratinization in both the hr/+ and hr/hr mice, TCDD-induced hyperplasia in hr/+ mice was only associated with changes in keratin synthesis reflecting increased basal cell proliferation. These results demonstrate that a single application of TCDD to the skin alters the normal pattern of epidermal differentiation in the hr/hr mouse. Molecular events influencing the expression of the keratin genes associated with this process may be linked to the strain- and/or species-specific toxicity of TCDD.

Specific alterations in keratin biosynthesis in mouse epidermis in vivo and in explant culture following a single exposure to the tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate

Treatment of mouse skin with a single dose of the phorbol ester tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) causes dramatic alterations in the biosynthesis of specific epidermal keratins. TPA was applied either topically to the skin of mice or added to the culture medium of skin explants maintained in vitro. Twenty-four h after exposure, skin samples were pulse labeled with [35S]methionine, and epidermal proteins were extracted and resolved by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. In whole animals, TPA caused a marked decrease in the biosynthesis of the Mr 67,000 (basic) and 59,000 (acidic) keratins, specific markers for suprabasal differentiation in the epidermis. In addition, the synthesis of an acidic keratin of Mr 48,000 and a basic keratin of Mr 62,000 was also decreased. Concomitantly, TPA caused an increase in the synthesis of a basic keratin of Mr 60,000 and acidic keratins of Mr 52,000 and 49,000, markers for proliferating cells and primary epidermal cell cultures. The normal pattern of keratin synthesis observed in explants from normal skin was similar to that observed in skin samples from animals treated with TPA, except that synthesis of the Mr 67,000 basic keratin subunit was maintained. The addition of TPA to culture medium containing the skin explants resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in the synthesis of this keratin. Furthermore, resulting patterns of keratinization were identical to epidermis treated with TPA in vivo. These results suggest that a single acute exposure to TPA alters normal differentiation of mouse epidermal cells in vivo while causing a pronounced basal cell hyperproliferation. This response can be reproduced following TPA exposure to skin explants in culture, suggesting that the changes in keratinization observed are independent of the animal. Specific keratins modulated during TPA-induced hyperplasia may serve as marker proteins for aberrant epidermal cell growth and differentiation leading to the development of neoplasia.

EFFECTS OF NITROGEN DEPRIVATION ON RATES OF UPTAKE OF NITROGENOUS COMPOUNDS BY THE DIATOM, PHAEODACTYLUM TRICORNUTUM BOHLIN

A culture of Phaeodactylum tricornutum was suspended in nitrogen-free growth medium under conditions which favoured photosynthesis. Nitrogen deprivation was continued for 60 h and, over this period, samples were removed for measurement of rates of uptake of arginine, guanine, nitrate, nitrite, lysine, methylammonium and urea. In another experiment, the effect of nitrogen deprivation on the ability to take up methylammonium and ammonium was compared. Cells developed, or increased, their abilities to take up all of these nitrogen compounds during nitrogen deprivation but ability to take up the two amino acids increased only slowly whereas the ability to take up the other compounds increased markedly during the first few hours of deprivation. The maximum rates of uptake developed were some 50-100 × higher for methylammonium and ammonium than they were for the other compounds. The rates of uptake are compared with those necessary to sustain growth.