Insulin induces bioenergetic changes and alters mitochondrial dynamics in podocytes

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most frequent complications of diabetes. Early stages of DN are associated with hyperinsulinemia and progressive insulin resistance in insulin-sensitive cells, including podocytes. The diabetic environment induces pathological changes, especially in podocyte bioenergetics, which is tightly linked with mitochondrial dynamics. The regulatory role of insulin in mitochondrial morphology in podocytes has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the main goal of the present study was to investigate effects of insulin on the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics in human podocytes. Biochemical analyses were performed to assess oxidative phosphorylation efficiency by measuring the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and glycolysis by measuring the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR). mRNA and protein expression were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The intracellular mitochondrial network was visualized by MitoTracker staining. All calculations were conducted using CellProfiler software. Short-term insulin exposure exerted inhibitory effects on various parameters of oxidative respiration and adenosine triphosphate production, and glycolysis flux was elevated. After a longer time of treating cells with insulin, an increase in mitochondrial size was observed, accompanied by a reduction of expression of the mitochondrial fission markers DRP1 and FIS1 and an increase in mitophagy. Overall, we identified a previously unknown role for insulin in the regulation of oxidative respiration and glycolysis and elucidated mitochondrial dynamics in human podocytes. The present results emphasize the importance of the duration of insulin stimulation for its metabolic and molecular effects, which should be considered in clinical and experimental studies of DN.

Hyperglycemia - A culprit of podocyte pathology in the context of glycogen metabolism

Prolonged disruption in the balance of glucose can result in metabolic disorders. The kidneys play a significant role in regulating blood glucose levels. However, when exposed to chronic hyperglycemia, the kidneys' ability to handle glucose metabolism may be impaired, leading to an accumulation of glycogen. Earlier studies have shown that there can be a significant increase in glucose storage in the form of glycogen in the kidneys in diabetes. Podocytes play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of filtration barrier. In diabetes, exposure to elevated glucose levels can lead to significant metabolic and structural changes in podocytes, contributing to kidney damage and the development of diabetic kidney disease. The accumulation of glycogen in podocytes is not a well-established phenomenon. However, a recent study has demonstrated the presence of glycogen granules in podocytes. This review delves into the intricate connections between hyperglycemia and glycogen metabolism within the context of the kidney, with special emphasis on podocytes. The aberrant storage of glycogen has the potential to detrimentally impact podocyte functionality and perturb their structural integrity. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the alterations in cellular signaling pathways that may potentially lead to glycogen overproduction in podocytes.

Role of lysosomes in insulin signaling and glucose uptake in cultured rat podocytes

Podocytes are sensitive to insulin, which governs the functional and structural integrity of podocytes that are essential for proper function of the glomerular filtration barrier. Lysosomes are acidic organelles that are implicated in regulation of the insulin signaling pathway. Cathepsin D (CTPD) and lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) are major lysosomal proteins that reflect the functional state of lysosomes. However, the effect of insulin on lysosome activity and role of lysosomes in the regulation of insulin-dependent glucose uptake in podocytes are unknown. Our studies showed that the short-term incubation of podocytes with insulin decreased LAMP1 and CTPD mRNA levels. Insulin and bafilomycin A1 reduced both the amounts of LAMP1 and CTPD proteins and activity of CTPD, which were associated with a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of lysosomes that were labeled with LysoTracker. Bafilomycin A1 inhibited insulin-dependent endocytosis of the insulin receptor and increased the amounts of the insulin receptor and glucose transporter 4 on the cell surface of podocytes. Bafilomycin A1 also inhibited insulin-dependent glucose uptake despite an increase in the amount of glucose transporter 4 in the plasma membrane of podocytes. These results suggest that lysosomes are signaling hubs that may be involved in the coupling of insulin signaling with the regulation of glucose uptake in podocytes. The dysregulation of this mechanism can lead to the dysfunction of podocytes and development of insulin resistance.

Pit 1 transporter (SLC20A1) as a key factor in the NPP1-mediated inhibition of insulin signaling in human podocytes

Podocytes are crucially involved in blood filtration in the glomerulus. Their proper function relies on efficient insulin responsiveness. The insulin resistance of podocytes, defined as a reduction of cell sensitivity to this hormone, is the earliest pathomechanism of microalbuminuria that is observed in metabolic syndrome and diabetic nephropathy. In many tissues, this alteration is mediated by the phosphate homeostasis-controlling enzyme nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (NPP1). By binding to the insulin receptor (IR), NPP1 inhibits downstream cellular signaling. Our previous research found that hyperglycemic conditions affect another protein that is involved in phosphate balance, type III sodium-dependent phosphate transporter 1 (Pit 1). In the present study, we evaluated the insulin resistance of podocytes after 24 h of incubation under hyperinsulinemic conditions. Thereafter, insulin signaling was inhibited. The formation of NPP1/IR complexes was observed at that time. A novel finding in the present study was our observation of an interaction between NPP1 and Pit 1 after the 24 h stimulation of podocytes with insulin. After downregulation of the SLC20A1 gene, which encodes Pit 1, we established insulin resistance in podocytes that were cultured under native conditions, manifested as a lack of intracellular insulin signaling and the inhibition of glucose uptake via the glucose transporter type 4. These findings suggest that Pit 1 might be a major factor that participates in the NPP1-mediated inhibition of insulin signaling.

Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 5A by tadalafil improves SIRT1 expression and activity in insulin-resistant podocytes

A decrease in intracellular levels of 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) has been implicated in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Hyperglycemia significantly inhibits cGMP-dependent pathway activity in the kidney, leading to glomerular damage and proteinuria. The enhancement of activity of this pathway that is associated with an elevation of cGMP levels may be achieved by inhibition of the cGMP specific phosphodiesterase 5A (PDE5A) using selective inhibitors, such as tadalafil. Hyperglycemia decreased the insulin responsiveness of podocytes and impaired podocyte function. These effects were associated with lower protein amounts and activity of the protein deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and a decrease in the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase (AMPK). We found that PDE5A protein levels increased in hyperglycemia, and PDE5A downregulation improved the insulin responsiveness of podocytes with reestablished SIRT1 expression and activity. PDE5A inhibitors potentiate nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP signaling, and NO modulates the activity and expression of SIRT1. Therefore, we investigated the effects of tadalafil on SIRT1 and AMPK in the context of improving the insulin sensitivity in podocytes and podocyte function in hyperglycemia. Our study revealed that tadalafil restored SIRT1 expression and activity and activated AMPK by increasing its phosphorylation. Tadalafil also restored stimulating effect of insulin on glucose transport in podocytes with high glucose-induced insulin resistance. Additionally, tadalafil improved the function of podocytes that were exposed to high glucose concentrations. Our results display novel mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of glomerulopathies in diabetes, which may contribute to the development of more effective treatment strategies for diabetic nephropathy.

The Role of PKGIα and AMPK Signaling Interplay in the Regulation of Albumin Permeability in Cultured Rat Podocytes

The permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB) is mainly regulated by podocytes and their foot processes. Protein kinase G type Iα (PKGIα) and adenosine monophosphate-dependent kinase (AMPK) affect the contractile apparatus of podocytes and influence the permeability of the GFB. Therefore, we studied the interplay between PKGIα and AMPK in cultured rat podocytes. The glomerular permeability to albumin and transmembrane FITC-albumin flux decreased in the presence of AMPK activators and increased in the presence of PKG activators. The knockdown of PKGIα or AMPK with small-interfering RNA (siRNA) revealed a mutual interaction between PKGIα and AMPK and influenced podocyte permeability to albumin. Moreover, PKGIα siRNA activated the AMPK-dependent signaling pathway. AMPKα2 siRNA increased basal levels of phosphorylated myosin phosphate target subunit 1 and decreased the phosphorylation of myosin light chain 2. Podocytes that were treated with AMPK or PKG activators were characterized by the different organization of actin filaments within the cell. Our findings suggest that mutual interactions between PKGIα and AMPKα2 regulate the contractile apparatus and permeability of the podocyte monolayer to albumin. Understanding this newly identified molecular mechanism in podocytes provides further insights into the pathogenesis of glomerular disease and novel therapeutic targets for glomerulopathies.

Role of L-lactate as an energy substrate in primary rat podocytes under physiological and glucose deprivation conditions

Lactate has long been acknowledged to be a metabolic waste product, but it has more recently been found as a fuel energy source in mammalian cells. Podocytes are an important component of the glomerular filter, and their role in maintaining the structural integrity of this structure was established. These cells rely on a constant energy supply and reservoir. The utilization of alternative energy substrates to preserve energetic homeostasis is a subject of extensive research, and lactate appears to be one such candidate. Therefore, we investigated the role of lactate as an energy substrate and characterize the lactate transport system in cultured rat podocytes during sufficient and insufficient glucose supplies. The present study, for the first time, demonstrated the presence of lactate transporters in podocytes. Moreover, we observed modified the amount of these transporters in response to limited glucose availability and after l-lactate supplementation. Simultaneously, exposure to l-lactate preserved cell survival during insufficient glucose supply. Interestingly, during glucose deprivation, lactate exposure allowed the steady flow of glycolysis and prevented glycogen reserves depletion. Summarizing, podocytes utilize lactate as an energy substrate and possess a developed system that controls lactate homeostasis, suggesting that it plays an essential role in podocyte metabolism, especially during fluctuations of energy availability.

β-Aminoisobutyric acid (L-BAIBA) is a novel regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis and respiratory function in human podocytes

Podocytes constitute an external layer of the glomerular filtration barrier, injury to which is a hallmark of renal disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction often accompanies podocyte damage and is associated with an increase in oxidative stress and apoptosis. β-Aminoisobutyric acid (BAIBA) belongs to natural β-amino acids and is known to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. BAIBA has been reported to be involved in regulating mitochondrial dynamics, but unknown is whether BAIBA influences podocyte bioenergetics. The present study showed that human podocytes express the BAIBA receptor, Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor type D (MRGPRD), which is sensitive to BAIBA stimulation. The treatment of podocytes with L-BAIBA significantly increased their respiratory parameters, such as basal and maximal respiration, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and spare respiratory capacity. We also found that L-BAIBA altered mitochondrial quantity, size, and shape, promoting organelle elongation and branching. L-BAIBA significantly upregulated peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and transcription factor A mitochondrial (TFAM), indicating an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis. Our results demonstrate a novel regulatory mechanism of mitochondrial dynamics in podocytes, which may be important for maintaining their functions in the renal filtration barrier and prompting further investigations of preventing or ameliorating mitochondrial damage in podocytes in pathological states.

Enhancement of cGMP-dependent pathway activity ameliorates hyperglycemia-induced decrease in SIRT1-AMPK activity in podocytes: Impact on glucose uptake and podocyte function

Hyperglycemia significantly decreases 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent pathway activity in the kidney. A well-characterized downstream signaling effector of cGMP is cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG), exerting a wide range of downstream effects, including vasodilation and vascular smooth muscle cells relaxation. In podocytes that are exposed to high glucose concentrations, crosstalk between the protein deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and adenosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) decreased, attenuating insulin responsiveness and impairing podocyte function. The present study examined the effect of enhancing cGMP-dependent pathway activity on SIRT1-AMPK crosstalk in podocytes under hyperglycemic conditions. We found that enhancing cGMP-dependent pathway activity using a cGMP analog was associated with increases in SIRT1 protein levels and activity, with a concomitant increase in the degree of AMPK phosphorylation. The beneficial effects of enhancing cGMP-dependent pathway activity on SIRT1-AMPK crosstalk also included improvements in podocyte function. Based on our findings, we postulate an important role for SIRT1-AMPK crosstalk in the regulation of albumin permeability in hyperglycemia that is strongly associated with activity of the cGMP-dependent pathway.

Insulin controls cytoskeleton reorganization and filtration barrier permeability via the PKGIα-Rac1-RhoA crosstalk in cultured rat podocytes

Podocyte foot processes are an important cellular layer of the glomerular barrier that regulates glomerular permeability. Insulin via the protein kinase G type Iα (PKGIα) signaling pathway regulates the balance between contractility and relaxation (permeability) of the podocyte barrier by regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. This mechanism was shown to be disrupted in diabetes. Rho family guanosine-5'-triphosphates (GTPases) are dynamic modulators of the actin cytoskeleton and expressed in cells that form the glomerular filtration barrier. Thus, changes in Rho GTPase activity may affect glomerular permeability to albumin. The present study showed that Rho family GTPases control podocyte migration and permeability. Moreover these processes are regulated by insulin in PKGIα-dependent manner. Modulation of the PKGI-dependent activity of Rac1 and RhoA GTPases with inhibitors or small-interfering RNA impair glomerular permeability to albumin. We also demonstrated this mechanism in obese, insulin-resistant Zucker rats. We propose that PKGIα-Rac1-RhoA crosstalk is necessary in proper organization of the podocyte cytoskeleton and consequently the stabilization of glomerular architecture and regulation of filtration barrier permeability.

Hyperglycemic environment disrupts phosphate transporter function and promotes calcification processes in podocytes and isolated glomeruli

Soft tissue calcification is a pathological phenomenon that often occurs in end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is caused by diabetic nephropathy, among other factors. Hyperphosphatemia present during course of CKD contributes to impairments in kidney function, particularly damages in the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). Essential elements of the GFB include glomerular epithelial cells, called podocytes. In the present study, we found that human immortalized podocytes express messenger RNA and protein of phosphate transporters, including NaPi 2c (SLC34A3), Pit 1 (SLC20A1), and Pit 2 (SLC20A2), which are sodium-dependent and mediate intracellular phosphate (Pi) transport, and XPR1, which is responsible for extracellular Pi transport. We found that cells that were grown in a medium with a high glucose (HG) concentration (30 mM) expressed less Pit 1 and Pit 2 protein than podocytes that were cultured in a standard glucose medium (11 mM). We found that exposure of the analyzed transporters in the cell membrane of the podocyte is altered by HG conditions. We also found that the activity of tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase increased in HG, causing a rise in Pi generation. Additionally, HG led to a reduction of the amount of ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 in the cell membrane of podocytes. The extracellular concentration of pyrophosphate also decreased under HG conditions. These data suggest that a hyperglycemic environment enhances the production of Pi in podocytes and its retention in the extracellular space, which may induce glomerular calcification.

Purinergic P2 receptors: Involvement and therapeutic implications in diabetes-related glomerular injury

The purinergic activation of P2 receptors initiates a powerful and rapid signaling cascade that contributes to the regulation of an array of physiological and pathophysiological processes in many organs, including the kidney. P2 receptors are broadly distributed in both epithelial and vascular renal cells. Disturbances of purinergic signaling can lead to impairments in renal function. A growing body of evidence indicates changes in P2 receptor expression and nucleotide metabolism in chronic renal injury and inflammatory diseases. Increasing attention has focused on purinergic P2X7 receptors, which are not normally expressed in healthy kidney tissue but are highly expressed at sites of tissue damage and inflammation. Under hyperglycemic conditions, several mechanisms that are linked to purinergic signaling and involve nucleotide release and degradation are disrupted, resulting in the accumulation of adenosine 5'-triphosphate in the bloodstream in diabetes. Dysfunction of the purinergic system might be associated with serious vascular complications in diabetes, including diabetic nephropathy. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the role of P2 receptors in diabetes-related glomerular injury and its implications for new therapeutics for diabetic nephropathy.

Hyperglycemia alters mitochondrial respiration efficiency and mitophagy in human podocytes

Podocytes constitute the outer layer of the renal glomerular filtration barrier. Their energy requirements strongly depend on efficient oxidative respiration, which is tightly connected with mitochondrial dynamics. We hypothesized that hyperglycemia modulates energy metabolism in glomeruli and podocytes and contributes to the development of diabetic kidney disease. We found that oxygen consumption rates were severely reduced in glomeruli from diabetic rats and in human podocytes that were cultured in high glucose concentration (30 mM; HG). In these models, all of the mitochondrial respiratory parameters, including basal and maximal respiration, ATP production, and spare respiratory capacity, were significantly decreased. Podocytes that were treated with HG showed a fragmented mitochondrial network, together with a decrease in expression of the mitochondrial fusion markers MFN1, MFN2, and OPA1, and an increase in the activity of the fission marker DRP1. We showed that markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, such as PGC-1α and TFAM, decreased in HG-treated podocytes. Moreover, PINK1/parkin-dependent mitophagy was inhibited in these cells. These results provide evidence that hyperglycemia impairs mitochondrial dynamics and turnover, which may underlie the remarkable deterioration of mitochondrial respiration parameters in glomeruli and podocytes.

Insulin resistance in glomerular podocytes: Potential mechanisms of induction

Glomerular podocytes are a target for the actions of insulin. Accumulating evidence indicates that exposure to nutrient overload induces insulin resistance in these cells, manifested by abolition of the stimulatory effect of insulin on glucose uptake. Numerous recent studies have investigated potential mechanisms of the induction of insulin resistance in podocytes. High glucose concentrations stimulated reactive oxygen species production through NADPH oxidase activation, decreased adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, and reduced deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein levels and activity. Calcium signaling involving transient receptor potential cation channel C, member 6 (TRPC6) also was demonstrated to play an essential role in the regulation of insulin-dependent signaling and glucose uptake in podocytes. Furthermore, podocytes exposed to diabetic environment, with elevated insulin levels become insulin resistant as a result of degradation of insulin receptor (IR), resulting in attenuation of insulin signaling responsiveness. Also elevated levels of palmitic acid appear to be an important factor and contributor to podocytes insulin resistance. This review summarizes cellular and molecular alterations that contribute to the development of insulin resistance in glomerular podocytes.

Role of Klotho in Hyperglycemia: Its Levels and Effects on Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors, Glycolysis, and Glomerular Filtration

Hyperglycemic conditions (HG), at early stages of diabetic nephropathy (DN), cause a decrease in podocyte numbers and an aberration of their function as key cells for glomerular plasma filtration. Klotho protein was shown to overcome some negative effects of hyperglycemia. Klotho is also a coreceptor for fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs), the signaling of which, together with a proper rate of glycolysis in podocytes, is needed for a proper function of the glomerular filtration barrier. Therefore, we measured levels of Klotho in renal tissue, serum, and urine shortly after DN induction. We investigated whether it influences levels of FGFRs, rates of glycolysis in podocytes, and albumin permeability. During hyperglycemia, the level of membrane-bound Klotho in renal tissue decreased, with an increase in the shedding of soluble Klotho, its higher presence in serum, and lower urinary excretion. The addition of Klotho increased FGFR levels, especially FGFR1/FGFR2, after their HG-induced decrease. Klotho also increased levels of glycolytic parameters of podocytes, and decreased podocytic and glomerular albumin permeability in HG. Thus, we found that the decrease in the urinary excretion of Klotho might be an early biomarker of DN and that Klotho administration may have several beneficial effects on renal function in DN.

Beneficial effects of metformin on glomerular podocytes in diabetes

Podocytes and their foot processes form an important cellular layer of the glomerular barrier involved in regulating glomerular permeability. Disturbances in podocyte function play a central role in the development of proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy. The retraction of podocyte foot processes forming a slit diaphragm is a common feature of proteinuria. Metformin is an oral antidiabetic agent of the biguanide class that is widely recommended for the treatment of high blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to lowering glucose, several recent studies have reported potential beneficial effects of metformin on diabetic kidney function. Furthermore, a key molecule of the antidiabetic mechanism of action of metformin is adenosine 5'-monophospate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), as the metformin-induced activation of AMPK is well documented. The present review summarizes current knowledge on the protective effects of metformin against pathological changes in podocytes that are induced by hyperglycemia.

Involvement of nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide pathway in the regulation of SIRT1-AMPK crosstalk in podocytes: Impact on glucose uptake

The protein deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and adenosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) play important roles in the development of insulin resistance. In glomerular podocytes, crosstalk between these two enzymes may be altered under hyperglycemic conditions. SIRT1 protein levels and activity and AMPK phosphorylation decrease under hyperglycemic conditions, with concomitant inhibition of the effect of insulin on glucose uptake into these cells. Nitric oxide (NO)-dependent regulatory signaling pathways have been shown to be downregulated under diabetic conditions. The present study examined the involvement of the NO synthase (NOS)/NO pathway in the regulation of SIRT1-AMPK signaling and glucose uptake in podocytes. We examined the effects of NOS/NO pathway alterations on SIRT1/AMPK signaling and glucose uptake using pharmacological tools and a small-interfering transfection approach. We also examined the ability of the NOS/NO pathway to protect podocytes against high glucose-induced alterations of SIRT1/AMPK signaling and insulin-dependent glucose uptake. Inhibition of the NOS/NO pathway reduced SIRT1 protein levels and activity, leading to a decrease in AMPK phosphorylation and blockade of the effect of insulin on glucose uptake. Treatment with the NO donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) prevented high glucose-induced decreases in SIRT1 and AMPK activity and increased GLUT4 protein expression, thereby improving glucose uptake in podocytes. These findings suggest that inhibition of the NOS/NO pathway may result in alterations of the effects of insulin on glucose uptake in podocytes. In turn, the enhancement of NOS/NO pathway activity may prevent these deleterious effects of high glucose concentrations, thus bidirectionally stimulating the SIRT1-AMPK reciprocal activation loop.

The PKGIα-Rac1 pathway is a novel regulator of insulin-dependent glucose uptake in cultured rat podocytes

Insulin plays a major role in regulating glucose homeostasis in podocytes. Protein kinase G type Iα (PKGIα) plays an important role in regulating glucose uptake in these cells. Rac1 signaling plays an essential role in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and is also essential for insulin-stimulated glucose transport. The experiments were conducted using primary rat podocytes. We performed western blot analysis, evaluated small GTPases activity assays, measured radioactive glucose uptake, and performed immunofluorescence imaging to analyze the role of PKGIα-Rac1 signaling in regulating podocyte function. We also utilized a small-interfering RNA-mediated approach to determine the role of PKGIα and Rac1 in regulating glucose uptake in podocytes. The present study investigated the influence of the PKGI pathway on the insulin-dependent regulation of activity and cellular localization of small guanosine triphosphatases in podocytes. We found that the PKGIα-dependent activation of Rac1 signaling induced activation of the PAK/cofilin pathway and increased insulin-mediated glucose uptake in podocytes. The downregulation of PKGIα or Rac1 expression abolished this effect. Rac1 silencing prevented actin remodeling and GLUT4 translocation close to the cell membrane. These data provide evidence that PKGIα-dependent activation of the Rac1 signaling pathways is a novel regulator of insulin-mediated glucose uptake in cultured rat podocytes.

The PKGIα/VASP pathway is involved in insulin- and high glucose-dependent regulation of albumin permeability in cultured rat podocytes

Podocytes, the principal component of the glomerular filtration barrier, regulate glomerular permeability to albumin via their contractile properties. Both insulin- and high glucose (HG)-dependent activation of protein kinase G type Iα (PKGIα) cause reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and podocyte disruption. Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is a substrate for PKGIα and involved in the regulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics. We investigated the role of the PKGIα/VASP pathway in the regulation of podocyte permeability to albumin. We evaluated changes in high insulin- and/or HG-induced transepithelial albumin flux in cultured rat podocyte monolayers. Expression of PKGIα and downstream proteins was confirmed by western blot and immunofluorescence. We demonstrate that insulin and HG induce changes in the podocyte contractile apparatus via PKGIα-dependent regulation of the VASP phosphorylation state, increase VASP colocalization with PKGIα, and alter the subcellular localization of these proteins in podocytes. Moreover, VASP was implicated in the insulin- and HG-dependent dynamic remodelling of the actin cytoskeleton and, consequently, increased podocyte permeability to albumin under hyperinsulinaemic and hyperglycaemic conditions. These results indicate that insulin- and HG-dependent regulation of albumin permeability is mediated by the PKGIα/VASP pathway in cultured rat podocytes. This molecular mechanism may explain podocytopathy and albuminuria in diabetes.

Regulation of podocytes function by AMP-activated protein kinase

Podocytes are unique, highly specialized, terminally differentiated cells that form an essential, integral part of the glomerular filter. These cells limit the outside border of the glomerular basement membrane, forming a tight barrier that prevents significant protein loss from the capillary space. The slit diaphragm formed by podocytes is crucial for maintaining glomerular integrity and function. They are the target of injury in many glomerular diseases, including hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Accumulating studies have revealed that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an essential cellular energy sensor, might play a fundamental role in regulating podocyte metabolism and function. AMPK participates in insulin signaling, therefore controls glucose uptake and podocytes insulin sensitivity. It is also involved in insulin-dependent cytoskeleton reorganization in podocytes, mediating glomerular albumin permeability. AMPK plays an important role in the regulation of autophagy/apoptosis processes, which influence podocytes viability. The present review aimed to highlight the molecular mechanisms associated with AMPK that are involved in the regulation of podocyte function in health and disease states.

P0968THE INFLUENCE OF ALPHA KLOTHO ON NPP1 ACTIVITY IN CULTURED RAT PODOCYTES

Background and Aims

Kidney is the principal contributor to circulating αKlotho (αKL), and simultaneously, constitutes the major organ where circulating αKlotho is taken up from the circulation. Klotho is mainly expressed in proximal renal tubule and in distal tubular epithelium. In the kidney soluble αKlotho acts from the urinary luminal side as an autocrine or paracrine enzyme to regulate transporters and ion channels. Recently, it has been demonstrated that the glomerulus is another source of αKlotho production.

NPP1 is the best characterized nucleotide pyrophosphatases/phosphodiesterases (NPP) family member, encoded by the ENPP1 gene, and is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein that forms disulfide-bonded homodimers in the plasma membrane and in the mineral-depositing matrix vesicles. The major function of NPP1 is generation of PPi from adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Recently, we demonstrated that extracellular nucleotides stimulate an increase in glomerular albumin permeability, in part due to glomerular NO production and actin reorganization in podocytes . Furthermore, both αKlotho and NPP1 regulate insulin-dependent signaling. Thus, a key aim of this study is to fully examine the role of αKlotho on NPP1 function and its role in the protection of glomerular filtration barrier and podocyte function in diabetes.

Method

We measured glomerular permeability to albumin (Palb) in a single isolated rat glomerulus based on the video-microscopy method and permeability to albumin across the podocyte monolayer. Expression of αKlotho and NPP1 was confirmed in podocytes using Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase activity in podocytes was assessed using p-nitrophenyl-5′-thymidine monophosphate (p-Nph-5′-TMP) as a substrate. The ATP concentration was measured using luciferin-luciferase reaction.

Results

Since NPP1 and Klotho regulate insulin-dependent signaling we investigated the role of Klotho on NPP1 dimerization and NPPs activity. Podocyte treatment withαKlotho (0.5 nM, 30 min) in non-reducing conditions (maleimide, 100 mM) increased the disulfide bond formation of NPP1 (Fig. 1A). The percentage of dimerized (260 kDa) NPP1 increased approximately by 45%. This effect was abolished in the presence of ATP (100 µM, 30 min). As a positive control, we used hydrogen peroxide (100 μM, 5 min) which induces oxidative disulfide bond formation (Fig. 1A). We also demonstrated time-dependent decrease of NPPs activity in the presence of αKL (Fig. 1B). Klotho also induces an increase of extracellular ATP concentration by 76% (from 3.19±0.01 to 5.62±0.43, n=6, P<0.05). Moreover, we confirmed the role of soluble αKlotho in ATP-evoked increases of glomerular and podocyte albumin permeability.

Conclusion

Summarizing, we have clearly demonstrated an interaction between αKL and NPP1 in podocytes. Moreover, we observed the protective role of αKlotho in podocyte permeability to albumin.

P0986NO/CGMP PATHWAY MODULATES GLUCOSE UPTAKE VIA REGULATION OF SIRT1 DEACETYLASE EXPRESSION AND ACTIVITY IN PODOCYTES EXPOSED TO HIGH GLUCOSE CONCENTRATIONS

Background and Aims

Glomerular podocytes have become the aim of the extensive research in diabetes because of their importance in the development of diabetic nephropathy. High glucose concentration affects podocyte metabolism and function leading to the development of insulin resistance. Moreover, it decreases deacetylase SIRT1 protein amount and activity, leading to abolition of insulin effect on glucose uptake into the cells. The aim of our study was to examine the involvement of NO/cGMP pathway in the regulation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein expression and activity in podocytes, in the context of high-glucose induced insulin resistance. This work was supported by grant from the National Science Centre (2016/23/B/NZ4/03448).

Method

Experiments were performed in primary rat podocytes cultured with normal (NG, 11.1 mM) or high (HG, 30 mM) glucose concentrations for 5 days. RT-PCR and immunodetection methods were used to detect mRNA and protein expressions. Glucose uptake was measured by the addition of 1 µCi/well of 2-deoxy-(1,2-3H)-D-glucose uptake diluted in non-radioactive dglucose (50 µM final concentration) with or without 300 nM insulin. SIRT1 activity was determined with a SIRT1 Fluorometric Kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. SIRT1 expression was modified by transfection with SIRT1 siRNA. To examine the effect of NO/cGMP pathway activity on SIRT1, cells were incubated in the presence of SNAP, a mimetic of nitric oxide synthase activity (NOS), and 8-Br-cGMP, protein kinase G (PKG) activator. We also used L-NAME – NOS inhibitor, and Rp-8-Br-cGMPs, PKG inhibitor.

Results

SIRT1 protein expression and activity were decreased in podocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations. We showed that in the presence of SNAP and 8-Br-cGMP, SIRT1 protein amount and activity were increased, leading also to enhancement of basal and insulin-dependent glucose uptake. In podocytes, transfected with SIRT1 siRNA, treatment with NO/cGMP pathway activators SNAP or 8-Br-cGMP increased glucose uptake. NO/cGMP pathway inhibitors exerted opposite effects on SIRT1 protein level and activity as well as on glucose uptake. Insulin action on glucose uptake into podocytes cultivated in the presence of normal glucose concentrations was abolished after NO/cGMP pathway inhibition.

Conclusion

We found that impairment of insulin effect on glucose uptake in HG-exposed podocytes, which was associated with SIRT1 downregulation, may be prevented by NO-dependent signaling modulation.

P0982PTEN-INDUCED KINASE 1 (PINK1) DEPLETION ALTERS MITOCHONDRIAL EFFICIENCY AND GLYCOLYSIS IN HUMAN PODOCYTES

Background and Aims

Podocytes are terminally differentiated cells, which constitute an inner layer of the renal filtration barrier. Podocytes are characterized by high metabolic activity, and their elevated energy requirements are met by maintaining the appropriate mitochondrial number and quality, which depend on mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy. Alteration of mitochondrial dynamics is linked to the development of insulin resistance and diabetes. The main goal of the research was to determine the role of mitophagy in podocytes bioenergetics and to elucidate the effects of hyperglycemia on mitochondrial dynamics.

Method

In order to inhibit mitophagy, we generated a human podocyte cell line stably expressing PINK1 shRNA through lentiviral transduction. Biochemical analyses were performed to assess the oxidative phosphorylation efficiency (by measurement of oxygen consumption rate; OCR) and glycolysis contribution to the total cell energy production (by measurement of extracellular acidification rate; ECAR) in the differentiated shPINK1 podocytes. The expression levels of mRNAs and proteins were evaluated in podocytes cultured in standard glucose (11 mM) and high glucose (30 mM) concentrations using real-time PCR and western blot. Intracellular mitochondrial network was visualized by MitoTrackertTM staining. The co-localization of proteins in podocytes was analysed by double immunofluorescence labelling and confocal microscopy.

Results

PINK1-deficiency resulted in the significant decrease of maximal respiration and spare respiratory capacity in podocytes (by 40% and 70%, respectively). Non-mitochondrial respiration was also decreased by 45% in shPINK1 cells. Interestingly, basal respiration and ATP production appeared similar in shPINK1 and control podocytes. PINK1 depletion increased glycolytic flux by 70%, in addition, the accompanying decline in glycolytic capacity and glycolytic reserve was observed (by 38% and 63%, respectively). Moreover, we observed accumulation of small and ring-shaped mitochondria in PINK1-deficient podocytes compared with the control cells.

We showed a decreased expression of PINK1 and Parkin (mRNA and protein) in normal human podocytes cultured in hyperglycemic medium, which was associated with an elevated levels of mitochondrial fission markers (DRP1, FIS1) and with a decreased levels of PGC1α and TFAM, which play a role in mitochondrial biogenesis and mtDNA replication.

Conclusion

In this research, we demonstrated a novel role of mitophagy in podocyte bioenergetics. Moreover, we showed that high glucose inhibits mitophagy and promotes mitochondrial fission leading to the accumulation of damaged mitochondria and podocyte injury, which underlies the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Cathepsin C is a novel mediator of podocyte and renal injury induced by hyperglycemia

A growing body of evidence suggests a role of proteolytic enzymes in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Cathepsin C (CatC) is a well-known regulator of inflammatory responses, but its involvement in podocyte and renal injury remains obscure. We used Zucker rats, a genetic model of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, to determine the presence, quantity, and activity of CatC in the urine. In addition to the animal study, we used two cellular models, immortalized human podocytes and primary rat podocytes, to determine mRNA and protein expression levels via RT-PCR, Western blot, and confocal microscopy, and to evaluate CatC activity. The role of CatC was analyzed in CatC-depleted podocytes using siRNA and glycolytic flux parameters were obtained from extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) measurements. In functional analyses, podocyte and glomerular permeability to albumin was determined. We found that podocytes express and secrete CatC, and a hyperglycemic environment increases CatC levels and activity. Both high glucose and non-specific activator of CatC phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) diminished nephrin, cofilin, and GLUT4 levels and induced cytoskeletal rearrangements, increasing albumin permeability in podocytes. These negative effects were completely reversed in CatC-depleted podocytes. Moreover, PMA, but not high glucose, increased glycolytic flux in podocytes. Finally, we demonstrated that CatC expression and activity are increased in the urine of diabetic Zucker rats. We propose a novel mechanism of podocyte injury in diabetes, providing deeper insight into the role of CatC in podocyte biology.

The TRPC6-AMPK Pathway is Involved in Insulin-Dependent Cytoskeleton Reorganization and Glucose Uptake in Cultured Rat Podocytes

Background/Aims: Podocytes are dynamic polarized cells on the surface of glomerular capillaries that are an essential part of the glomerular filtration barrier. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of glucose and fatty acid metabolism, plays a major role in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Accumulating evidence suggests that TRPC6 channels are crucial mediators of calcium transport in podocytes and are involved in regulating glomerular filtration. Here we investigated whether the AMPK-TRPC6 pathway is involved in insulin-dependent cytoskeleton reorganization and glucose uptake in cultured rat podocytes. Methods: Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis confirmed AMPKα and TRPC6 expression, the phosphorylation of proteins associated with actin cytoskeleton reorganization (PAK, rac1, and cofilin), and the expression of insulin signaling proteins (Akt, Insulin receptor). Coimmunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence results demonstrated AMPKα/TRPC6 interaction. To ask whether TRPC6 is involved in the insulin regulation of glucose transport, we measured insulin-dependent (1, 2-3H)-deoxy-D-glucose uptake into podocytes after reducing TRPC6 activity pharmacologically and biochemically (TRPC6 siRNA). Results: The results suggested a key role for the TRPC6 channel in the mediation of insulin-dependent activation of AMPKα2 and glucose uptake. Moreover, AMPK and TRPC6 activation were required to stimulate the Rac1 signaling pathway. Conclusion: These results suggest a potentially important new mechanism that regulates glucose transport in podocytes and that could be injurious during diabetes.

Myocardial perfusion SPECT with dipyridamole stress test in cardiac syndrome X

Cardiac syndrome X defines patients with typical anginal chest pain, a positive exercise ECG stress test and angiographically normal coronary arteries. Aim of this study was to evaluate the role of myocardial perfusion SPECT with dipyridamole stress in the diagnosis of cardiac syndrome X. Patients, methods: 68 patients with syndrome X aged 32 to 60 years were subjected to myocardial imaging using 99mTc-MIBI according to the two-days protocol: at rest and after dipyridamole infusion. Semiquantitative evaluation of the images was based on the assessment of 99mTc-MIBI uptake in 17 myocardial segments using a 5-points scale (0 point – normal uptake, 4 points – no uptake). Scores obtained in each segment were summed up, constituting the summed rest score (SRS) and summed stress score (SSS). Results: Mean SRS was 7.9 ± 4.8 and mean SSS was 7.2 ± 4.4 (non-significant difference). Individual comparison of SRS and SSS values revealed three patterns of scintigraphic images: 1) in 25 patients (36.8%), a paradoxical improvement of perfusion at stress images was found, 2) in 23 patients (33.8%), the myocardial perfusion deteriorated after dipyridamole, 3) in 20 patients (29.4%), no significant change of the myocardial perfusion between rest and stress images occurred. Conclusions: In cardiac syndrome X, myocardial SPECT with dipyridamole stress shows different patterns of myocardial perfusion that reflects heterogeneity of this pathology.

Viability of primary cultured podocytes is associated with extracellular high glucose-dependent autophagy downregulation

Structural and functional impairment of podocytes plays an important role in the development of diabetic nephropathy, a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus and leading cause of renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy. Autophagy plays a crucial role in podocyte viability and function, and its activity is modulated by a variety of pathophysiological factors found in diabetic milieu. Here we show that downregulation of autophagy is critical for podocyte survival in hyperglycemic environment. Moreover, long-term exposure to high glucose leads to inhibition of autophagy as well as to the development of insulin resistance in podocytes. Furthermore, impairment of autophagy is involved in alteration of insulin-dependent glucose uptake in podocytes, suggesting a relationship between these two processes. Taken together, our findings suggest that downregulation of podocyte autophagy, observed after long-term exposure to high glucose, results from their suppressed sensitivity to insulin, and may therefore lead to diminished podocyte cell viability as well as their reduced number in glomerulus.

Extracellular purines' action on glomerular albumin permeability in isolated rat glomeruli: insights into the pathogenesis of albuminuria

Purinoceptors (adrengeric receptors and P2 receptors) are expressed on the cellular components of the glomerular filtration barrier, and their activation may affect glomerular permeability to albumin, which may ultimately lead to albuminuria, a well-established risk factor for the progression of chronic kidney disease and development of cardiovascular diseases. We investigated the mechanisms underlying the in vitro and in vivo purinergic actions on glomerular filter permeability to albumin by measuring convectional albumin permeability (Palb) in a single isolated rat glomerulus based on the video microscopy method. Primary cultured rat podocytes were used for the analysis of Palb, cGMP accumulation, PKG-Iα dimerization, and immunofluorescence. In vitro, natural nucleotides (ATP, ADP, UTP, and UDP) and nonmetabolized ATP analogs (2-meSATP and ATP-γ-S) increased Palb in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. The effects were dependent on P2 receptor activation, nitric oxide synthase, and cytoplasmic guanylate cyclase. ATP analogs significantly increased Palb, cGMP accumulation, and subcortical actin reorganization in a PKG-dependent but nondimer-mediated route in cultured podocytes. In vivo, 2-meSATP and ATP-γ-S increased Palb but did not significantly affect urinary albumin excretion. Both agonists enhanced the clathrin-mediated endocytosis of albumin in podocytes. A product of adenine nucleotides hydrolysis, adenosine, increased the permeability of the glomerular barrier via adrenergic receptors in a dependent and independent manner. Our results suggest that the extracellular nucleotides that stimulate an increase of glomerular Palb involve nitric oxide synthase and cytoplasmic guanylate cyclase with actin reorganization in podocytes.

Combined effect of insulin and high glucose concentration on albumin permeability in cultured rat podocytes

Podocytes play a fundamental role in regulating glomerular permeability to albumin. This mechanism is disrupted in the course of diabetes. Both insulin and high glucose concentrations enhance the permeability of podocytes to albumin by stimulating oxygen free radical production, primarily by NAD(P)H oxidase-4 (NOX4), and by activating protein kinase G, isoform Iα (PKGIα). However, no study has investigated the combined effects of insulin and high glucose concentration. Here, we investigated the effects of applying insulin (INS, 300 nM) and high glucose (HG, 30 mM), both separately and combined, for 5 days, on cultured rat podocyte permeability to albumin. We measured podocyte permeability with a transmembrane albumin flux assay. We measured NOX4 and PKGIα mRNA expression with real-time PCR. We used Western blots to evaluate protein expression levels of NOX4, PKGIα, the myosin-binding subunit of myosin phosphatase 1, and myosin light chain. We found that INS and HG had a synergistic effect on podocyte permeability to albumin, and this synergy was not dependent on NOX4 or PKGIα. These results suggested that the combined action of INS and HG may exacerbate glomerular dysfunction in diabetes.

High glucose increases glomerular filtration barrier permeability by activating protein kinase G type Iα subunits in a Nox4-dependent manner

Hyperglycemia is a primary factor that disturbs podocyte function in the glomerular filtration process; this disturbance leads to the development of diabetic nephropathy, and ultimately, renal failure. Podocyte function may also be altered by biological agents that modify protein kinase activity, including the cGMP-activated protein kinase type Iα (PKGIα). We hypothesized that hyperglycemia-induced podocyte protein hyperpermeability was dependent on PKGIα activation, and that PKGIα was activated via dimerization induced by reactive oxygen species. This hypothesis was investigated in rat podocytes cultured in high glucose (HG, 30 mM). Protein expression was measured with Western blot and immunofluorescence. Podocyte permeability was measured with a transmembrane albumin flux assay. We found that HG increased podocyte permeability in long-term incubations (1, 3, and 5 days); permeability was increased by 66% on day 5. This effect was abolished with apocynin, a NAD(P)H inhibitor, and Rp-8-Br-cGMPS, a PKG inhibitor. It was also abolished by introducing small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) against Nox4 and PKGIα into cultured podocytes. Furthermore, HG increased PKGIα dimerization by 138% (0.23 ± 0.04 vs. 0.54 ± 0.09; P<0.05); this effect was abolished with a siRNA against Nox4. Our observations suggested that HG could increase albumin permeability across the podocyte filtration barrier via Nox4-dependent PKGIα dimerization.

Metformin reduces NAD(P)H oxidase activity in mouse cultured podocytes through purinergic dependent mechanism by increasing extracellular ATP concentration

Hyperglycemia affects the functioning numbers of podocytes and leads to a gradual decline of renal function. The normalization of glucose level is a principle therapeutic goal in diabetic patients and metformin is a popular hypoglycemic drug used in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin activates AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) and decreases NAD(P)H oxidase activity in podocytes leading to reduction of free radical generation. Similar effects are observed after activation of P2 receptors. Therefore, we investigated whether metformin increases extracellular ATP concentration and affects the activities of NAD(P)H oxidase and AMPK through P2 receptors. Experiments were performed on cultured mouse podocytes. NAD(P)H oxidase activity was measured by chemiluminescence and changes in AMPK activity were estimated by immunoblotting against AMPKα-Thr(172)-P. Metformin increased extracellular ATP concentration by reduction of ecto-ATPase activity, decreased NAD(P)H oxidase activity and increased AMPK phosphorylation. A P2 receptor antagonist, suramin (300 µM), prevented metformin action on NAD(P)H oxidase and AMPK phosphorylation. The data suggests a novel mechanism of metformin action, at least in podocytes. Metformin, which increases extracellular ATP concentration leads to activation of P2 receptors and consequent modulation of the podocytes' metabolism through AMPK and NAD(P)H oxidase which, in turn, may affect podocyte functioning.

Hydrogen peroxide induces dimerization of protein kinase G type Iα subunits and increases albumin permeability in cultured rat podocytes

Podocytes help regulate filtration barrier permeability in the kidneys. They express contractile proteins that are characteristic of smooth muscle cells as well as receptors for vasoactive factors such as angiotensin II and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). The later one generates intracellular cGMP, with subsequent activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase; PKG (isoform PKGIα and PKGIβ). In this study, we asked whether hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), a physiological vasorelaxing factor, affected podocyte permeability and the podoctye PKGIα signaling pathway. Expression of PKGIα was confirmed in cultured rat podocytes using RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. Exposure of podocytes to exogenous H(2)O(2) (100 µM) in non-reducing conditions increased the formation of PKGIα interprotein disulfide bonds, affected the phosphorylation of PKG target proteins, namely MYPT1 (maximal increase of about 57% at 30 min) and MLC (maximal decrease of about 62% at 10 min). Furthermore, H(2)O(2) increased the permeability of a layer of podocytes to albumin: Transmembrane flux for albumin increased five-fold (106.6 ± 5.2 µg/ml vs. 20.2 ± 2.5 µg/ml, P < 0.05, n = 5), and the PKG inhibitor Rp-8-Br-cGMPS (100 µM) prevented the flux increase. These data suggest that oxidative modulation of PKGIα in podocytes plays an important

High glucose concentration affects the oxidant-antioxidant balance in cultured mouse podocytes

Hyperglycemia is well-recognized and has long-term complications in diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy. In podocytes, the main component of the glomerular barrier, overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of high glucose induces dysfunction and increases excretion of albumin in urine. This suggests an impaired antioxidant defense system has a role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. We studied expression of NAD(P)H oxidase subunits by Western blotting and immunofluorescence and the activities of the oxidant enzyme, NAD(P)H, and antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), in mouse podocytes cultured in a high glucose concentration (30  mM). We found long-term (3 and 5 days) exposure of mouse podocytes to high glucose concentrations caused oxidative stress, as evidenced by increased expression of Nox4 and activities of NAD(P)H oxidase (Δ 182%) and SOD (Δ 39%) and decreased activities of GPx (Δ -40%) and CAT (Δ -35%). These biochemical changes were accompanied by a rise in intracellular ROS production and accumulation of hydrogen peroxide in extracellular space. The role of Nox4 in ROS generation was confirmed with Nox4 siRNA. In conclusion, high glucose concentration affects the oxidant-antioxidant balance in mouse podocytes, resulting in enhanced generation of superoxide anions and its attenuated metabolism. These observations suggest free radicals may play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.

Extracellular ATP through P2 receptors activates AMP-activated protein kinase and suppresses superoxide generation in cultured mouse podocytes

Podocytes are an important constituent of the glomerular filtration barrier. The function of these glomerular cells is affected by extracellular nucleotides through P2 receptors. The activation of P2 receptors may lead to the activation of NAD(P)H oxidase, the key enzyme in oxidative stress, with the intracellular pathways leading to intracellular ATP depletion associated with an increase in the intracellular AMP:ATP ratio. This deregulation of the energy balance activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to restore energy homeostasis. We investigated whether P2 receptor activation influences NAD(P)H oxidase-dependent rate of superoxide anion (O(2)(•-)) generation and AMPK activity in cultured mouse podocytes. The rate of O(2)(•-) generation was measured by chemiluminescence and changes in AMPK activity were determined by immunoblotting against AMPKα-Thr(172)-P. The addition of 100 μM ATP induced a rapid and transient decrease in rate of O(2)(•-) generation and increased AMPK phosphorylation with maximal effects in the first minute (2.44±0.09 versus 1.62±0.06 nmol/mg protein/min, P<0.05 and 0.64±0.04 versus 0.97±0.07, P<0.05, respectively). Both parameters returned to control levels at 10 min. Suramin (300 μM, P2 receptor antagonist) and compound C (100μM, AMPK inhibitor) completely, and STO-609 (25 μM, CaMKK-β inhibitor) partially, prevented ATP action in rate of O(2)(•-) generation and AMPK phosphorylation. Various ATP analogues (10 μM) mimicked the effects of ATP on rate of O(2)(•-) generation and AMPK phosphorylation. The data indicate that extracellular ATP, acting through P2 receptors upstream of CaMKK-β, modulates podocyte function through simultaneous effects on AMPK and NAD(P)H oxidase activities. This mechanism may play a role in restoring energy homeostasis after oxidative stress.

Purinergic modulation of glucose uptake into cultured rat podocytes: effect of diabetic milieu

Extracellular purines act via P1 and P2 receptors on podocytes and may influence on their function. This action may be modified under various (patho)physiological conditions leading to development of podocytopathy. Aim of study was to investigate effects of diabetic milieu, represented by high glucose concentration (HG, 30 mM glucose) on purinergic-induced changes of 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) uptake and on extracellular purines metabolism in cultured rat podocytes. Basal 2-DG uptake was 2.7-fold enhanced in HG compared to normal glucose concentration, NG (1271 ± 86 vs. 477 ± 37 nmol/h/mg protein, P<0.001). ATP stimulated 2-DG uptake by 44 ± 4% and 29 ± 5% in NG and HG, respectively. ATP analogues, β, γ-methylene ATP and 2-methylthio ATP stimulated 2-DG uptake in range of 18-34% in NG and 16-17% in HG. Benzoylbenzoyl ATP increased 2-DG uptake about 24 ± 2% in NG however, its effect in HG reached 50 ± 1%. The antagonists of P2 receptors (suramin, reactive blue 2, PPADS) decreased basal 2-DG uptake in NG and HG; suramin and reactive blue 2 at average of 15 ± 4% in NG but in HG the effect was in following order: suramin 28 ± 3%; PPADS 20 ± 3% and RB-2 9 ± 0.9%. Extracellular adenosine concentration was higher in HG than in NG (0.48 ± 0.01 vs. 5.05 ± 0.39 μM, P < 0.05), however intracellular ATP content and extracellular ATP concentration were not affected. Neither ecto-ATPase nor ecto-5'-nucleotidase activities were affected in HG. In conclusion, diabetic milieu affects purinergic modulation of glucose transport into podocytes which may play a role in development of diabetic podocytopathy.