Tissue specificity of L-pyruvate kinase transgenes results from the combinatorial effect of proximal promoter and distal activator regions

The L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) gene is regulated by diet and hormones and expressed at high levels in the hepatocytes, enterocytes, and proximal tubular cells of the kidney and at low levels in the endocrine pancreatic cells. Two regulatory regions have been shown to be important in transgenic mice to confer on a reporter gene a similar tissue-specific and diet-responsive expression: a proximal promoter fragment, with binding sites for the tissue-specific hepatocyte nuclear factors 1 and 4, and presence of the glucose-response element (GIRE) and a distal activator corresponding to a liver-specific hypersensitive site at -3000 bp with respect to the cap site. Although the proximal promoter is able to confer by itself tissue-specific expression on a reporter gene, its activity in vivo is strongly stimulated by the distal activator. To determine the possible role of the distal region on diet responsiveness and tissue specificity of the L-PK gene expression, we have created lines of transgenic mice in which the gene for SV40 T antigen (Tag) was directed by composite regulatory sequences consisting of the L-PK promoter and different enhancers: either the SV40 early enhancer (SV) or the H enhancer of the aldolase A gene (H). The induction of the composite H-PK/Tag and SV-PK/Tag transgenes by a carbohydrate-rich diet in the liver was similar to that of the endogenous L-PK gene. This suggests that in fasted mice the L-PK promoter, and especially the GIRE, is able to silence the activating influence of a strong viral enhancer such as the SV40 enhancer. The H-PK/Tag mice expressed the transgene similarly to the endogenous gene, except in the pancreas, where expression was practically undetectable. Consistently, whereas L-PK/Tag mice develop insulinomas, H-PK/Tag mice develop only hepatomas. In contrast, the transgene expression was partly aberrant in SV-PK/Tag mice. In addition to a normal activation of the transgene in the liver, a strong expression was also detected in the kidney medulla, whereas the transgene was practically silent in enterocytes. Finally, the effect of the distal region (-2070 to -3200) on an ubiquitous promoter was tested by ligating the distal L-PK gene fragment in front of a thymidine kinase/CAT transgene. Such a transgene was constantly expressed in the pancreas and, strikingly, in the brain. It appears, therefore, that the L-PK distal activator exhibits, by itself, a certain neuropancreatic specificity required in combination with the proximal promoter for L-PK gene expression in pancreas endocrine cells.

Green tea decoction improves glucose tolerance and reduces weight gain of rats fed normal and high-fat diet

Green tea containing polyphenols exerts antidiabetic and antiobesity effects, but the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. In this study, we first analyzed and compared polyphenol compounds [epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin (EGC)] in decoction of green tea leaves versus usual green tea extracts. Second, the effects of acute (30 min) or chronic (6 weeks) oral administration of green tea decoction (GTD) on intestinal glucose absorption were studied in vitro in Ussing chamber, ex vivo using isolated jejunal loops and in vivo through glucose tolerance tests. Finally, we explore in rat model fed normal or high-fat diet the effects of GTD on body weight, blood parameters and on the relative expression of glucose transporters SGLT-1, GLUT2 and GLUT4. GTD cooked for 15 min contained the highest amounts of phenolic compounds. In fasted rats, acute administration of GTD inhibited SGLT-1 activity, increased GLUT2 activity and improved glucose tolerance. Similarly to GTD, acute administration of synthetic phenolic compounds (2/3 EGCG+1/3 EGC) inhibited SGLT-1 activity. Chronic administration of GTD in rat fed high-fat diet reduced body weight gain, circulating triglycerides and cholesterol and improved glucose tolerance. GTD-treated rats for 6 weeks display significantly reduced SGLT-1 and increased GLUT2 mRNA levels in the jejunum mucosa. Moreover, adipose tissue GLUT4 mRNA levels were increased. These results indicate that GTD, a traditional beverage rich in EGCG and EGC reduces intestinal SGLT-1/GLUT2 ratio, a hallmark of regulation of glucose absorption in enterocyte, and enhances adipose GLUT4 providing new insights in its possible role in the control of glucose homeostasis.

Heat shock protein gp96 and NAD(P)H oxidase 4 play key roles in Toll-like receptor 4-activated apoptosis during renal ischemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) causes inflammation and cell injury as a result of activating innate immune signaling. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has a key role in mediating kidney damages during IRI, but the downstream signaling pathway(s) stimulating apoptosis remains debated. In this study we show that TLR4 mediates MyD88-dependent activation of TNF receptor-associated factor 2, apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAP kinases in ischemic-reperfused kidneys and posthypoxic renal tubule epithelial cells (RTECs). Hypoxia stimulated the expression of the endoplasmic-resident gp96, which co-immunoprecipitated TLR4, whereas silencing gp96 mRNA expression impaired hypoxia-induced apoptosis in TLR4-expressing RTECs. NAD(P)H oxidase 4 (NOX4) was shown to interact with TLR4 and to be required in lipopolysaccharide-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). IRI stimulated the expression of a 28-kDa NOX4 spliced isoform abundantly expressed in wild-type RTECs, which co-immunoprecipitated with TLR4, but not with gp96 in TLR4-deficient RTECs. Silencing NOX4 mRNA expression impaired hypoxia-induced activation of ASK1 and both JNK and p38, leading to the inhibition of ROS production and apoptosis in posthypoxic TLR4-expressing RTECs. These findings show that, concomitantly to the activation of p38, the gp96/TLR4 interaction is required for activation of ASK1/JNK signaling in posthypoxic mouse RTECs, and that the 28-kDa NOX4 has a key role in TLR4-mediated apoptosis during renal IRI.

Pore-forming epsilon toxin causes membrane permeabilization and rapid ATP depletion-mediated cell death in renal collecting duct cells

Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin (ET) is a potent pore-forming cytotoxin causing fatal enterotoxemia in livestock. ET accumulates in brain and kidney, particularly in the renal distal-collecting ducts. ET binds and oligomerizes in detergent-resistant membranes (DRMs) microdomains and causes cell death. However, the causal linkage between membrane permeabilization and cell death is not clear. Here, we show that ET binds and forms 220-kDa insoluble complexes in plasma membrane DRMs of renal mpkCCD(cl4) collecting duct cells. Phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C did not impair binding or the formation of ET complexes, suggesting that the receptor for ET is not GPI anchored. ET induced a dose-dependent fall in the transepithelial resistance and potential in confluent cells grown on filters, transiently stimulated Na+ absorption, and induced an inward ionic current and a sustained rise in [Ca2+]i. ET also induced rapid depletion of cellular ATP, and stimulated the AMP-activated protein kinase, a metabolic-sensing Ser/Thr kinase. ET also induced mitochondrial membrane permeabilization and mitochondrial-nuclear translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor, a potent caspase-independent cell death effector. Finally, ET induced cell necrosis characterized by a marked reduction in nucleus size without DNA fragmentation. DRM disruption by methyl-beta-cyclodextrin impaired ET oligomerization, and significantly reduced the influx of Na+ and [Ca2+]i, but did not impair ATP depletion and cell death caused by the toxin. These findings indicate that ET causes rapid necrosis of renal collecting duct cells and establish that ATP depletion-mediated cell death is not strictly correlated with the plasma membrane permeabilization and ion diffusion caused by the toxin.

Aldosterone and tight junctions: modulation of claudin-4 phosphorylation in renal collecting duct cells

Aldosterone classically modulates Na transport in tight epithelia such as the renal collecting duct (CD) through the transcellular route, but it is not known whether the hormone could also affect paracellular permeability. Such permeability is controlled by tight junctions (TJ) that form a size- and charge-selective barrier. Among TJ proteins, claudin-4 has been highlighted as a key element to control paracellular charge selectivity. In RCCD2 CD cells grown on filters, we have identified novel early aldosterone effects on TJ. Endogenous claudin-4 abundance and cellular localization were unaltered by aldosterone. However, the hormone promoted rapid (within 15-20 min) and transient phosphorylation of endogenous claudin-4 on threonine residues, without affecting tyrosine or serine; this event was fully developed at 10 nM aldosterone and appeared specific for aldosterone (because it is not observed after dexamethasone treatment and it depends on mineralocorticoid receptor occupancy). Within the same delay, aldosterone also promoted an increased apical-to-basal passage of 125I (a substitute for 36Cl), whereas 22Na passage was unaffected; paracellular permeability to [3H]mannitol was also reduced. Later on (45 min), a fall in transepithelial resistance was observed. These data indicate that aldosterone modulates TJ properties in renal epithelial cells.

The early non-genomic aldosterone-induced increase in sodium transport is a membrane-initiated event that requires protein carboxyl methylation in renal cells

Effects of aldosterone on its target cells are generally considered to be mediated through the genomic pathway. However, recent studies have evidenced rapid effects of the hormone that involve a non-genomic mechanism. In this study, we show that, in the RCCD2 rat cortical collecting duct cell line, the early effect of the hormone on transepithelial sodium transport is neither antagonized by the mineralo- and glucocorticoid receptors antagonists RU26752 and RU486, nor blocked by mRNA and protein synthesis inhibitors. Interestingly, the plasma membranes of RCCD2 cells specifically bind 3H-aldosterone but not 3H-dexamethasone, a binding that is not displaced in the presence of RU26752 or RU486, suggesting the presence of an aldosterone membrane receptor. In addition, the early aldosterone-induced increase in sodium transport is blocked by the addition of a specific inhibitor of carboxyl methyl transferase. These results suggest that, in RCCD2 cells, the early aldosterone-induced increase in sodium transport is not mediated through the genomic pathway but through a membrane receptor-mediated signal and could involve a rapid carboxyl methylation process regulated by aldosterone.

Early nongenomic events in aldosterone action in renal collecting duct cells: PKCalpha activation, mineralocorticoid receptor phosphorylation, and cross-talk with the genomic response

Effects of aldosterone on its target cells have long been considered to be mediated exclusively through the genomic pathway; however, evidence has been provided for rapid effects of the hormone that may involve nongenomic mechanisms. Whether an interaction exists between these two signaling pathways is not yet established. In this study, the authors show that aldosterone triggers both early nongenomic and late genomic increase in sodium transport in the RCCD(2) rat cortical collecting duct cell line. In these cells, the early (up to 2.5 h) aldosterone-induced increase in short-circuit current (Isc) is not blocked by the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist RU26752, it does not require mRNA or protein synthesis, and it involves the PKCalpha signaling pathway. In addition, this early response is reproduced by aldosterone-BSA, which acts at the cell surface and presumably does not enter the cells (aldo-BSA is unable to trigger the late response). The authors also show that MR is rapidly phosphorylated on serine and threonine residues by aldosterone or aldosterone-BSA. In contrast, the late (4 to 24 h) aldosterone-induced increase in ion transport occurs through activation of the MR and requires mRNA and protein synthesis. Interestingly, nongenomic and genomic aldosterone actions appear to be interdependent. Blocking the PKCalpha pathway results in the inhibition of the late genomic response to aldosterone, as demonstrated by the suppression of aldosterone-induced increase in MR transactivation activity, alpha1 Na(+)/K(+)/ATPase mRNA, and Isc. These data suggest cross-talk between the nongenomic and genomic responses to aldosterone in renal cells and suggest that the aldosterone-MR mediated increase in mRNA/protein synthesis and ion transport depends, at least in part, upon PKCalpha activation. E-mail: marcel.blot-chabaud@pharmacie.univ-mrs.fr

Conditional gene expression in renal collecting duct epithelial cells: use of the inducible Cre-lox system

The renal collecting duct plays a key role in control of ion and fluid homeostasis. Genes encoding for ion transporters, hormone receptors, or regulatory proteins specifically expressed in the collecting duct are mutated in several genetic diseases with altered blood pressure. Suitable cellular models expressing genes in a conditional way should represent attractive systems for structure-function analyses and generation of appropriate physiopathological models of related diseases. However, generation of such systems remains laborious and quite inefficient. We adapted and improved a conditional Cre-lox-inducible system in the highly differentiated aldosterone-sensitive rat cortical collecting duct (RCCD2) cell line. The inducible MerCreMer recombinase allowed tight control and high levels of transgene expression, whereas flanking a selection marker with two loxP sites strongly improved the selection procedure. We have used this system to conditionally express an enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged human mineralocorticoid receptor. In the future, this will allow structure-function analyses as well as mineralocorticoid receptor trafficking studies in these epithelial cells, which retain the features of the native collecting duct. Improvements in the conditional Cre-lox expression system have potentially wide applications in other epithelial or nonepithelial cell lines.

Glucocorticoid metabolism by 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 modulates human mineralocorticoid receptor transactivation activity

The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) binds aldosterone, but also glucocorticoid hormones (corticosterone in rodents, cortisol in humans), which largely prevail in the plasma. To prevent permanent and maximal occupancy of MR by glucocorticoid hormones in aldosterone-target cells, specific effects of aldosterone require metabolism of glucocorticoid hormones into 11-dehydroderivatives by 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11-HSD2). We analyzed the effect of corticosterone or 11-dehydrocorticosterone (11-DHC) on the transactivation activity of the MR, transiently expressed in a new renal cell line expressing 11-HSD2. We show that, because of its metabolism by 11-HSD2, corticosterone is a poor activator of MR transactivation, except at micromolar concentrations, where the enzyme is saturated. We also show that high micromolar concentrations of 11 DHC are required to activate the MR. The weak antagonist property of 11-DHC on aldosterone-induced hMR transactivations is also documented. Such partial agonist activity of 11-DHC is discussed in the light of its positioning in a three-dimensional model of the MR ligand-binding domain.

Long term regulation of aquaporin-2 expression in vasopressin-responsive renal collecting duct principal cells

Fine regulation of water reabsorption by the antidiuretic hormone [8-arginine]vasopressin (AVP) occurs in principal cells of the collecting duct and is largely dependent on regulation of the aquaporin-2 (AQP2) water channel. AVP-inducible long term AQP2 expression was investigated in immortalized mouse cortical collecting duct principal cells. Combined RNase protection assay, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analyses revealed that physiological concentrations of AVP added to the basal side, but not to the apical side, of cells grown on filters induced both AQP2 mRNA and apical protein expression. The stimulatory effect of AVP on AQP2 expression followed a V(2) receptor-dependent pathway because [deamino-8-d-arginine]vasopressin (dDAVP), a specific V(2) receptor agonist, produced the same effect as AVP, whereas the V(2) antagonist SR121463B antagonized action of both AVP and dDAVP. Moreover, forskolin and cyclic 8-bromo-AMP fully reproduced the effects of AVP on AQP2 expression. Analysis of protein degradation pathways showed that inhibition of proteasomal activity prevented synthesis of AVP-inducible AQP2 mRNA and protein. Once synthesized, AQP2 protein was quickly degraded, a process that involves both the proteasomal and lysosomal pathways. This is the first study that delineates induction and degradation mechanisms of AQP2 endogenously expressed by a renal collecting duct principal cell line.

Early development of polycystic kidney disease in transgenic mice expressing an activated mutant of the beta-catenin gene

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is common and is a major cause of renal failure. Although the genetics of ADPKD are well known and have led to the discovery of polycystins, a new protein family, the pathogenesis of the disease remains largely unknown. Recent studies have indicated that the beta-catenin signaling pathway is one of the targets of the transduction pathway controlled by the polycystins. We have generated transgenic mice that overproduce an oncogenic form of beta-catenin in the epithelial cells of the kidney. These mice developed severe polycystic lesions soon after birth that affected the glomeruli, proximal, distal tubules and collecting ducts. The phenotype of these mice mimicked the human ADPKD phenotype. Cyst formation was associated with an increase in cell proliferation and apoptosis. The cell proliferation and apoptotic indexes was increased 4-5-fold and 3-4-fold, respectively, in cystic tubules of the transgenic mice compared to that of littermate controls. Our findings provide experimental genetic evidence that activation of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway causes polycystic kidney disease and support the view that dysregulation of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling is involved in its pathogenesis.

Basolateral translocation by vasopressin of the aldosterone-induced pool of latent Na-K-ATPases is accompanied by alpha1 subunit dephosphorylation: study in a new aldosterone-sensitive rat cortical collecting duct cell line

The regulation of plasma membrane Na(+)-K(+)-ATPases (NKA) expression by aldosterone and arginin vasopressin (AVP) in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) has been examined in a new rat CCD cell line, designated as RCCD(2). This cell line has maintained many characteristics of the CCD-in particular, the expression of the mineralocorticoid receptor. Mineralocorticoid receptor is expressed at the protein level and binds (3)H-aldosterone (approximately 15 to 20 fmol/mg protein). Short-circuit current (Isc) experiments showed approximately a twofold increase in Isc associated with a decrease in transepithelial resistance when cells were treated with aldosterone concentrations as low as 10(-9) M. This effect on Isc was significant 2 h after aldosterone addition and was still present after 24 h. It was accompanied by an increase in the amount of mRNA encoding for the alpha subunit of the epithelial sodium channel (sixfold) and the alpha1 subunit of NKA (fourfold) after 24 h of hormone treatment. In addition, mRNA expression of the serum- and glucocorticoid-induced kinase (Sgk) was increased by 10(-9) M aldosterone treatment as early as 45 min after hormone addition. As had already been documented in native CCD obtained by microdissection, incubation of RCCD(2) cells for 24 h with aldosterone resulted in the constitution of a latent pool of NKA that could be rapidly recruited by AVP (15 min). NKA biotinylation experiments and preparation of membrane fractions show that this latent pool of NKA is present in the intracellular compartment of the cells and is recruited by AVP in the basolateral membrane through a translocation process. This mechanism is accompanied by dephosphorylation of the alpha(1) catalytic subunit of NKA.

CFTR disruption impairs cAMP-dependent Cl(-) secretion in primary cultures of mouse cortical collecting ducts

The role of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in the renal cortical collecting duct (CCD) has not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we investigated the effects of deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP) and isoproterenol (ISO) on NaCl transport in primary cultured CCDs microdissected from normal [CFTR(+/+)] and CFTR-knockout [CFTR(-/-)] mice. dDAVP stimulated the benzamyl amiloride (BAm)-sensitive transport of Na(+) assessed by the short-circuit current (I(sc)) method in both CFTR(+/+) and CFTR(-/-) CCDs to a very similar degree. Apical addition of 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoate (NPPB) or glibenclamide partially inhibited the rise in I(sc) induced by dDAVP and ISO in BAm-treated CFTR(+/+) CCDs, whereas dDAVP, ISO, and NPPB did not alter I(sc) in BAm-treated CFTR(-/-) CCDs. dDAVP stimulated the apical-to-basal flux and, to a lesser extent, the basal-to-apical flux of (36)Cl(-) in CFTR(+/+) CCDs. dDAVP also increased the apical-to-basal (36)Cl(-) flux in CFTR(-/-) CCDs but not the basal-to-apical (36)Cl(-) flux. These results demonstrate that CFTR mediates the cAMP-stimulated component of secreted Cl(-) in mouse CCD.

Functional role and immunocytochemical localization of the gamma a and gamma b forms of the Na,K-ATPase gamma subunit

The gamma subunit of the Na,K-ATPase is a member of the FXYD family of type 2 transmembrane proteins that probably function as regulators of ion transport. Rat gamma is present primarily in the kidney as two main splice variants, gamma(a) and gamma(b), which differ only at their extracellular N termini (TELSANH and MDRWYL, respectively; Kuster, B., Shainskaya, A., Pu, H. X., Goldshleger, R., Blostein, R., Mann, M., and Karlish, S. J. D. (2000) J. Biol. Chem. 275, 18441-18446). Expression in cultured cells indicates that both variants affect catalytic properties, without a detectable difference between gamma(a) and gamma(b). At least two singular effects are seen, irrespective of whether the variants are expressed in HeLa or rat alpha1-transfected HeLa cells, i.e. (i) an increase in apparent affinity for ATP, probably secondary to a left shift in E(1) <--> E(2) conformational equilibrium and (ii) an increase in K(+) antagonism of cytoplasmic Na(+) activation. Antibodies against the C terminus common to both variants (anti-gamma) abrogate the first effect but not the second. In contrast, gamma(a) and gamma(b) show differences in their localization along the kidney tubule. Using anti-gamma (C-terminal) and antibodies to the rat alpha subunit as well as antibodies to identify cell types, double immunofluorescence showed gamma in the basolateral membrane of several tubular segments. Highest expression is in the medullary portion of the thick ascending limb (TAL), which contains both gamma(a) and gamma(b). In fact, TAL is the only positive tubular segment in the medulla. In the cortex, most tubules express gamma but at lower levels. Antibodies specific for gamma(a) and gamma(b) showed differences in their cortical location; gamma(a) is specific for cells in the macula densa and principal cells of the cortical collecting duct but not cortical TAL. In contrast, gamma(b) but not gamma(a) is present in the cortical TAL only. Thus, the importance of gamma(a) and gamma(b) may be related to their partially overlapping but distinct expression patterns and tissue-specific functions of the pump that these serve.

Coordinate control of Na,K-atpase mRNA expression by aldosterone, vasopressin and cell sodium delivery in the cortical collecting duct

We have examined the respective influence of aldosterone, vasopressin and cell sodium delivery on Na+,K+-ATPase expression. The level of expression of the mRNA encoding for the alpha1- and beta1-subunits of Na+,K+-ATPase was evaluated in cortical collecting duct (CCD) cells from rats under different aldosterone status, in cells from the rat CCD cell line RCCD1 treated or not with vasopressin and in CCD cells from mice inactivated or not for the a-subunit of the epithelial sodium channel. The amount of mRNA was determined by in situ hybridization. Both aldosterone and vasopressin up-regulate transcripts encoding for the alpha1-subunit of Na+,K+-ATPase while beta1 is unaltered. Interestingly, when cell sodium entry was largely reduced (alphaENaC knock-out mice), the amount of transcripts encoding for the alpha1-subunit of Na+,K+-ATPase was significantly decreased in spite of high plasma aldosterone concentrations. No effect was observed on beta1-subunit. Altogether, these results suggest a coordinated hormonal and ionic control of Na+,K+-ATPase expression by different transcriptional pathways (steroid-receptor, cAMP-dependent and Na+dependent) in CCD cells. These regulations affect only alpha1-subunit of Na,K+-ATPase but not beta1.

Membrane topology and immunolocalization of CHIF in kidney and intestine

Corticosteroid hormone-induced factor (CHIF) is an aldosterone-induced gene, the function of which is yet unknown. It is specifically expressed in kidney collecting duct (CD) and distal colon and is upregulated by either Na+ deprivation or K+ loading. Hence, it may play a role in epithelial electrolyte transport. Previous studies have characterized regulation and tissue distribution of CHIF mRNA but provided no information on the protein itself. The present paper addresses this issue by using Western blotting, immunochemistry, and in vitro translation. CHIF is an approximately 8-kDa membranal protein, and protease digestion experiments suggest that its COOH tail faces the cell interior. The protein is abundant in distal colon, kidney medulla, and papilla but cannot be detected in a variety of other tissues. Confocal immunocytochemistry demonstrates that CHIF is present in the basolateral membrane of CD principal cells and distal colon surface cells, with occasional intracellular staining. Dexamethasone and low Na+ intake increase the abundance of CHIF. Unlike previous Northern data, induction of CHIF protein by low-Na+ intake was apparent not only in the distal colon but also in the kidney.

Tissue distribution and subcellular localization of the ClC-5 chloride channel in rat intestinal cells

ClC-5 is the Cl- channel that is mutated in Dent's disease, an X-chromosome-linked disease characterized by low molecular weight proteinuria, hypercalciuria, and kidney stones. It is predominantly expressed in endocytically active renal proximal cells. We investigated whether this Cl- channel could also be expressed in intestinal tissues that have endocytotic machinery. ClC-5 mRNA was detected in the rat duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon. Western blot analyses revealed the presence of the 83-kDa ClC-5 protein in these tissues. Indirect immunofluorescence studies showed that ClC-5 was mainly concentrated in the cytoplasm above the nuclei of enterocytes and colon cells. ClC-5 partially colocalized with the transcytosed polymeric immunoglobulin receptor but was not detectable together with the brush-border-anchored sucrase isomaltase. A subfractionation of vesicles obtained by differential centrifugation showed that ClC-5 is associated with the vacuolar 70-kDa H+-ATPase and the small GTPases rab4 and rab5a, two markers of early endosomes. Thus these results indicate that ClC-5 is present in the small intestine and colon of rats and suggest that it plays a role in the endocytotic pathways of intestinal cells.

The mineralocorticoid receptor mediates aldosterone-induced differentiation of T37i cells into brown adipocytes

By use of targeted oncogenesis, a brown adipocyte cell line was derived from a hibernoma of a transgenic mouse carrying the proximal promoter of the human mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) linked to the SV40 large T antigen. T37i cells remain capable of differentiating into brown adipocytes upon insulin and triiodothyronine treatment as judged by their ability to express uncoupling protein 1 and maintain MR expression. Aldosterone treatment of undifferentiated cells induced accumulation of intracytoplasmic lipid droplets and mitochondria. This effect was accompanied by a significant and dose-dependent increase in intracellular triglyceride content (half-maximally effective dose 10(-9) M) and involved MR, because it was unaffected by RU-38486 treatment but was totally abolished in the presence of aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone, RU-26752). The expression of early adipogenic gene markers, such as lipoprotein lipase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma, and adipocyte-specific fatty acid binding protein 2, was enhanced by aldosterone, confirming activation of the differentiation process. We demonstrate that, in the T37i cell line, aldosterone participates in the very early induction of brown adipocyte differentiation. Our findings may have a broader biological significance and suggest that MR is not only implicated in maintaining electrolyte homeostasis but could also play a role in metabolism and energy balance.

Glucose persistence on high-mannose oligosaccharides selectively inhibits the macroautophagic sequestration of N-linked glycoproteins

The macroautophagic-lysosomal pathway is a bulk degradative process for cytosolic proteins and organelles including the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We have previously shown that the human colonic carcinoma HT-29 cell population is characterized by a high rate of autophagic degradation of N-linked glycoproteins substituted with ER-type glycans. In the present work we demonstrate that glucosidase inhibitors [castanospermine (CST) and deoxynojirimycin] have a stabilizing effect on newly synthesized glucosylated N-linked glycoproteins and impaired their lysosomal delivery as shown by subcellular fractionation on Percoll gradients. The inhibition of macroautophagy was restricted to N-linked glycoproteins because macroautophagic parameters such as the rate of sequestration of cytosolic markers and the fractional volume occupied by autophagic vacuoles were not affected in CST-treated cells. The protection of glucosylated glycoproteins from autophagic sequestration was also observed in inhibitor-treated Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and in Lec23 cells (a CHO mutant deficient in glucosidase I activity). The interaction of glucosylated glycoproteins with the ER chaperone binding protein (BiP) was prolonged in inhibitor-treated cells in comparison with untreated CHO cells. These results show that the removal of glucose from N-glycans of glycoproteins is a key event for their delivery to the autophagic pathway and that interaction with BiP could prevent or delay newly synthesized glucosylated N-linked glycoproteins from being sequestered by the autophagic pathway.

Vasopressin stimulates long-term net chloride secretion in cortical collecting duct cells

The classical short-term effect (within minutes) of arginine vasopressin (AVP) consists in increasing sodium, chloride and water transport in kidney cells. More recently, long-term actions (several hours) of the hormone have been evidenced on water and sodium fluxes, due to transcriptional enhancement in the expression of their transporters. The present study demonstrates that AVP is also responsible for a long-term increase in net chloride secretion. In the RCCD(1) rat cortical collecting duct cell line, 10(-8) M AVP induced, after several hours, an increase in net (36)Cl(-) secretion. This delayed effect of AVP was inhibited by basal addition of 10(-4) M bumetanide and apical addition of 10(-4) M glibenclamide, suggesting chloride entry at the basal membrane through a Na(+)/K(+)/2Cl(-) and apical secretion through a chloride conductance. An original acute cell permeabilization method was developed to allow for entry of antibodies directed against the regulatory region (R) of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) into the cells. This procedure led to a complete and specific blocking of the long-term net chloride secretion induced by AVP. Finally, it was observed that CFTR transcripts steady-state level was significantly increased by AVP treatment. Besides the well-documented short-term effect of AVP on chloride transport, these results provide evidence that in RCCD(1) cells, AVP induces a delayed increase in transepithelial net chloride secretion that is mediated by a Na(+)/K(+)/2Cl(-) co-transporter and CFTR.

Tissue and cell distribution of the multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) in mouse intestine and kidney

The multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) that is involved in drug resistance and the export of glutathione-conjugated substrates may not have the same epithelial cell membrane distribution as the P-glycoprotein encoded by the MDR gene. Because intestinal and kidney epithelial cells are polarized cells endowed distinct secreting and absorptive ion and protein transport capacities, we investigated the tissue and cell distribution of MRP in adult mouse small intestine, colon, and kidney by immunohistochemistry. Western blot analyses revealed the 190-kD MRP protein in these tissues. MRP was found in the basolateral membranes of intestinal crypt cells, mainly Paneth cells, but not in differentiated enterocytes. All the cells lining the crypt-villous axis of the colon wall contained MRP. MRP was found in the glomeruli, ascending limb cells, and basolateral membranes of the distal and collecting tubule cells of the kidney but not in proximal tubule cells. Cultured mouse intestinal m-ICcl2 cells and renal distal mpkDCT cells that have retained the features typical of intestinal crypt and renal distal epithelial cells, respectively, also possess MRP in their basolateral membranes. The patterns of subcellular and cellular distribution indicate that MRP may have a specific role in the basolateral transport of endogenous compounds in Paneth, renal distal, and collecting tubule cells.

Corticosteroid-dependent sodium transport in a novel immortalized mouse collecting duct principal cell line

The final control of sodium balance takes place in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) of the nephron, where corticosteroid hormones regulate sodium reabsorption by acting through mineralocorticoid (MR) and/or glucocorticoid (GR) receptors. A clone of principal CCD cells (mpkCCDc14) has been established that is derived from a transgenic mouse (SV40 large T antigen under the control of the SV40 enhancer/L-type pyruvate kinase promoter). Cells grown on filters form polarized monolayers with high electrical transepithelial resistance (R(T) approximately 4700 ohm x cm2) and potential difference (P(D) approximately -50 mV) and have an amiloride-sensitive electrogenic sodium transport, as assessed by the short-circuit current method (Isc approximately 11 microA/cm2). Reverse transcription-PCR experiments using rat MR primers, [3H]aldosterone, and [3H]dexamethasone binding and competition studies indicated that the mpkCCDc14 cells exhibit specific MR and GR. Aldosterone increased Isc in a dose- (10(-10) to 10(-6) M) and time-dependent (2 to 72 h) manner, whereas corticosterone only transiently increased Isc (2 to 6 h). Consistent with the expression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, which metabolizes glucocorticoids to inactive 11-dehydroderivates, carbenoxolone potentiated the corticosterone-stimulated Isc. Aldosterone (5x10(-7) M)-induced Isc (fourfold) was associated with a three- to fivefold increase in alpha-ENaC mRNA (but not in those for beta- or gamma-ENaC) and three- to 10-fold increases in alpha-ENaC protein synthesis. In conclusion, this new immortalized mammalian CCD clonal cell line has retained a high level of epithelial differentiation and sodium transport stimulated by aldosterone and therefore represents a useful mammalian cell system for identifying the genes controlled by aldosterone.

Lysosomotropic agents increase vinblastine efflux from mouse MDR proximal kidney cells exhibiting vectorial drug transport

Vinblastine (VBL) transport and efflux were studied in mouse proximal tubule PKSV-PR cells and in their multidrug-resistant derivatives PKSV-PRcol50 cells. The PKSV-PRcol50 cells produced more mdr1b transcripts and had higher resistance to various drugs. PKSV-PRcol50 cells had a predominantly basal-to-apical flux of [3H]VBL, 2.7 times larger than that in PKSV-PR cells. This flux was partially inhibited by verapamil (VRP) (10 microM) and cyclosporin A (CsA) (200 nM). [3H]VBL efflux was also greater in PKSV-PRcol50 than in PKSV-PR cells. Treatment with NH4Cl (30 mM), a lysosomotropic weak base, and concanamycin A (CCM A) (20 nM), an inhibitor of the vacuolar H+/ATPase, further increased [3H]VBL efflux from PKSV-PRcol50 cells. The cytoplasmic pH (pHcyt) of these drug-resistant cells transiently increased in the presence of NH4Cl deltapHcyt: +0.4). CCM A caused a moderate, delayed increase in pHcyt (deltapHcyt: +0.1) and made the acidic intralysosomal compartment more alkaline (deltapHlys: +1.3). VRP and CsA prevented the NH4Cl- and CCM A-induced [3H]VBL efflux from PKSV-PRcol50 cells. However, VRP (10 microM) did not significantly affect pHcyt of PKSV-PRcol50 cells, the NH4Cl-and CCM A-induced pHcyt responses, and the effect of CCMA on pHlys. Thus, lysosomotropic agents may affect the kinetics of [3H]VBL efflux. Our results also suggest that the inhibitory action of VRP on VBL efflux was not directly mediated by a pH-dependent process in these drug-resistant renal proximal tubule cells.

Characterization of beta cells developed in vitro from rat embryonic pancreatic epithelium

The present study evaluates the development and functional properties of beta cells differentiated in vitro. The authors have previously demonstrated that when E12.5 rat pancreatic rudiments are cultured in vitro in the absence of mesenchyme, the majority of the epithelial cells differentiate into endocrine beta cells. Thus, depletion of the mesenchyme provokes the expansion of endocrine tissue at the expense of exocrine tissue. The potential use of this procedure for the production of beta cells led the authors to characterize the beta cells differentiated in this model and to compare their properties with those of the endocrine cells of the embryonic and adult pancreas. This study shows that the beta cells that differentiate in vitro in the absence of mesenchyme express the homeodomain protein Nkx6.1, a transcription factor that is characteristic of adult mature beta cells. Further, electron microscopy analysis shows that these beta cells are highly granulated, and the ultrastructural analysis of the granules shows that they are characteristic of mature beta cells. The maturity of these granules was confirmed by a double-immunofluorescence study that demonstrated that Rab3A and SNAP-25, two proteins associated with the secretory pathway of insulin, are strongly expressed. Finally, the maturity of the differentiated beta cells in this model was confirmed when the cells responded to stimulation with 16 mM glucose by a 5-fold increase in insulin release. The authors conclude that the beta cells differentiated in vitro from rat embryonic pancreatic rudiments devoid of mesenchyme are mature beta cells.

Subcellular localization of the Galphai3 protein and G alpha interacting protein, two proteins involved in the control of macroautophagy in human colon cancer HT-29 cells

Autophagic sequestration is controlled by the Galphai3 protein in human colon cancer HT-29 cells. Immunofluorescence and subcellular fractionation studies showed that the Galphai3 protein is preferentially associated with Golgi membranes but co-localization was also observed with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. The Galphai2 protein, which is not involved in the control of autophagic sequestration, is associated with the plasma membrane. Transfection of chimaeric Galphai proteins (Galphai3/2, Galphai2/3) containing the N- and C-terminal parts of the relevant Galphai demonstrated that the C-terminal part of the Galphai3 protein, by governing its membrane localization [de Almeida, Holtzman, Peters, Ercolani, Ausiello and Stow (1994) J. Cell Sci. 107, 507-515], is important in the control of macroautophagic sequestration. G alpha interacting protein (GAIP),which stimulates the GTPase activity of the Galphai3 protein and favours macroautophagic sequestration in HT-29 cells,was shown, by immunofluorescence studies using confocal microscopy, to be confined to the cytoplasm. The cytoplasmic distribution of GAIP only partially overlaps with that of the Galphai3 protein. However, the presence of the two proteins on Golgi and ER membranes was confirmed by subcellular fractionation. These results point to the importance of the cytoplasmic localization of the Galphai3 protein and GAIP in controlling autophagic sequestration in HT-29 cells.

Expression of TWIK-1, a novel weakly inward rectifying potassium channel in rat kidney

Several K+ conductances have been identified in the kidney, with specific properties and localization in distinct cell types and membrane domains. On the other hand, several K+ channels have been characterized at the molecular level. By immunolocalization, we show that a new inward rectifying K+ channel, TWIK-1, is specifically expressed in distinct tubular segments and cell types of the rat kidney. In the proximal tubule, TWIK-1 prevails in the initial portions (convoluted part), where it is restricted to the apical (brush-border) membrane. In the collecting duct, immunofluorescence was intracellular or confined to the apical membrane and restricted to intercalated cells, i.e., in cells lacking aquaporin-2, as shown by double immunofluorescence. TWIK was also expressed in medullary and cortical parts of the thick limb of the loop of Henle, identified with an anti-Tamm-Horsfall protein antibody (double immunofluorescence). The intensity of TWIK-1 immunolabeling was unchanged in rats fed a low-Na+ or a low-K+ diet. Because TWIK-1 shares common properties with the low-conductance apical K+ channel of the collecting duct, we propose that it could play a role in K+ secretion, complementary to ROMK, another recently characterized K+ channel located in principal cells of the cortical collecting duct and in the loop of Henle.

Intestinal expression of the calbindin-D9K gene in transgenic mice. Requirement for a Cdx2-binding site in a distal activator region

The calbindin-D9K gene encodes a vitamin D-induced calcium-binding protein that is expressed as a marker of small intestine differentiation. We have shown that 4580 base pairs of its 5' DNA regulatory region can target reporter transgene expression in the intestine and cause this transgene to respond like the endogenous gene to vitamin D active metabolite and that the homeoprotein Cdx2 is bound to the TATA box in the intestine. We now show that the 4580 base pairs construct confers a differentiated pattern of reporter transgene expression in the intestine and that cooperation between the proximal promoter and a distal element located in an opened chromatin structure is responsible for the intestinal expression and vitamin D responsiveness of the transgene. Gel shift and footprinting assays using duodenal nuclear extracts indicate that this distal element contains a Cdx2-binding site. Finally, a mutation in this distal Cdx2-binding site dramatically decreases intestinal expression in transgenic mice. This report, using an in vivo approach, demonstrates the crucial role of Cdx2 for the transcription of an intestinal gene.

ClC-5, the chloride channel mutated in Dent's disease, colocalizes with the proton pump in endocytotically active kidney cells

Loss-of-function mutations of the ClC-5 chloride channel lead to Dent's disease, a syndrome characterized by low molecular weight proteinuria, hypercalciuria, and kidney stones. We show that ClC-5 is expressed in renal proximal tubule cells, which normally endocytose proteins passing the glomerular filter. Expression is highest below the brush border in a region densely packed with endocytotic vesicles, where ClC-5 colocalizes with the H+-ATPase and with internalized proteins early after uptake. In intercalated cells of the collecting duct it again localizes to apical intracellular vesicles and colocalizes with the proton pump in alpha-intercalated cells. In transfected cells, ClC-5 colocalizes with endocytosed alpha2-macroglobulin. Cotransfection with a GTPase-deficient rab5 mutant leads to enlarged early endosomes that stain for ClC-5. We suggest that ClC-5 may be essential for proximal tubular endocytosis by providing an electrical shunt necessary for the efficient acidification of vesicles in the endocytotic pathway, explaining the proteinuria observed in Dent's disease.

Transcriptional regulation of sodium transport by vasopressin in renal cells

We have examined whether arginine vasopressin (AVP) can induce a long-term modulation of transepithelial ion transport in addition to its well known short-term effect. In the RCCD1 rat cortical collecting duct cell line, an increase in both short-circuit current and 22Na transport was observed after several hours of 10(-8) M AVP treatment (a concentration above the in vivo physiological range). This delayed effect was partially prevented by apical addition of 10(-5) M amiloride and was blocked by 10(-6) M actinomycin D and 2 x 10(-6) M cycloheximide. The amounts of mRNA encoding the alpha1 (not beta1) subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase and the beta and gamma (not alpha) subunits of the amiloride-sensitive epithelial Na+ channel were significantly increased by AVP treatment. The increase in mRNA was blocked by actinomycin D, not by amiloride, suggesting a Na+-independent increase in the rate of transcription of these subunits. The translation rates of the alpha1 subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase and the beta and gamma subunits of the rat epithelial sodium channel increased significantly, whereas the translation rates of the other subunits remained unchanged. Finally, the number of Na+ channels present in the apical membrane of the cells increased, as demonstrated by enhanced specific [3H]phenamil binding.

Activity and inducibility of drug-metabolizing enzymes in immortalized hepatocyte-like cells (mhPKT) derived from a L-PK/Tag1 transgenic mouse

This report describes the establishment and characterization of the mhPKT cell line derived from the liver of a transgenic mouse harboring the simian virus (SV40) large T and small t antigens placed under the control of the 5' regulatory sequence of the rat L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) gene. mhPKT cells had a prolonged life span, expressed the SV40-encoded nuclear large T antigen when grown in glucose-enriched medium, and induced tumors when injected subcutaneously into athymic (nu-nu) mice. Growth on petri dishes or filters yielded multiple layers of cuboid cells, with numerous spaces between adjacent cells that were closed by junctional complexes. These bile canaliculi-like structures exhibited numerous microvilli in which villin, an actin-binding brush-border protein, colocalized with actin. These bile canaliculi-like structures appeared to be functional as they accumulated fluorescein. mhPKT cells conserved the expression of the liver-specific transcription factors HNF1, HNF3, HNF4, and DBP together with substantial levels of L-PK and albumin but not alpha-fetoprotein mRNA transcripts. mhPKT cells mainly metabolized testosterone into androstenedione and 6beta-hydroxytestosterone, as in vivo. 3-Methylcholanthrene and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) markedly increased ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity and the related cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1/2 protein, whereas alpha-naphtoflavone antagonized the TCDD-elicited induction. Phenobarbital slightly increased the CYP2B-mediated activities of pentoxyresorufin-O-depentylase, 2beta- and 16beta-testosterone hydroxylase. mhPKT cells also had substantial sulfotransferase, UDP-glucuronyltransferase, and glutathione S-transferase activities. This model may serve as a tool for long-term in vitro studies of xenobiotic metabolism, potent CYP inducers, and hepatocyte damage due to drugs and other factors.

Localization and induction by dehydration of ClC-K chloride channels in the rat kidney

We investigate the intrarenal expression of two recently cloned chloride channels, rClC-K1 and rClC-K2, by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction on single microdissected tubules from the rat kidney and by immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal antibody that recognizes both highly homologous channels. Both rClC-K1 and rClC-K2 mRNAs were detected in outer medullary late proximal tubules (S3), papillary ascending thin limbs (ATL), and outer medullary (MTAL) and cortical (CTAL) thick ascending limbs, distal tubules (DCT), and cortical, outer medullary, and inner medullary collecting ducts. Indirect immunofluorescence studies demonstrated that the rClC-K proteins were restricted to the basolateral membranes from ATL, DCT, and collecting ducts cells, whereas CTAL and MTAL exhibited a more diffuse basal staining. When rats were dehydrated, a condition which increased the expression of rClC-K1 in cortex and medulla, a weak cytoplasmic staining was found in late proximal tubule cells. Thus these results demonstrate that rat kidney ClC-K channels are predominantly located in the basolateral membranes from cells of the late segments of the renal tubule where most of chloride reabsorption takes place.

Characteristics of a rat cortical collecting duct cell line that maintains high transepithelial resistance

This study describes the establishment of a rat kidney cortical collecting duct (CCD) clonal cell line (RCCD1 cells) that maintains high transepithelial resistance and specific hormonal sensitivities. Immortalized cells were obtained by infection of primary cultured CCD cells with the wild-type simian virus 40. Grown on Petri dishes, RCCD1 cells are organized as monolayers of cuboid cells separated by tight junctions and form domes. Grown on permeable filters, confluent RCCD1 cells exhibit high transepithelial resistance (Rt: 2390 +/- 140 omega. cm2), transepithelial potential difference (PD) of -10.5 +/- 1.2 mV lumen negative, an associated short-circuit current (Isc) of 4.3 +/- 0.5 microA/cm2, and generated significant Na+, K+, H+ and HCO3- gradients, reflecting Na+ and H+ reabsorption and K+ and HCO3- secretion. RCCD1 cells exhibit features of both principal (PC) and intercalated (IC) cells. Consistent with PC phenotype, about 50% of the cells were positively stained by a PC-specific agglutinin. In situ hybridization studies revealed the presence of alpha, beta and gamma subunit mRNAs of the amiloride-sensitive epithelial Na+ channel and alpha 1 and beta 1 subunits of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase. Moreover, Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase was immunolocalized at the basolateral side of the cells. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) induced a significant increase in both cellular cAMP content and Isc. Amiloride decreased in a dose-dependent manner Isc from untreated and AVP-treated RCCD1 cells. In addition, a barium-sensitive K+ conductance was evidenced in the apical side of the cells. Consistent with IC phenotype, isoproterenol (ISO) provoked a large increase in cellular cAMP and stimulated Isc. The effect of ISO on Isc was blocked by 5 x 10(-3) M DPC, a chloride channel blocker. Finally, AVP plus ISO had additive effect on Isc. Taken together, these results provide evidence that the RCCD1 cell line has maintained many of the original properties of rat CCD from which they were derived.

Tissue-specific and hormonal regulation of calbindin-D9K fusion genes in transgenic mice

The rat Calbindin-D9K (CaBP9K) gene is mainly expressed in intestine, uterus, and lung and is regulated in a complex tissue-specific manner. To analyze the role of potential regulatory elements, previously defined by DNaseI hypersensivity, we made transgenic mice containing truncated rat CaBP9K fusion gene with simian virus 40 large T antigen and the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase as reporter genes. The transgenes contained CaBP9K promoter fragments with 5' end points at -4400, -1011, and -117 base pairs (bp), whereas the 3' end points was at +365 bp. Northern blot analysis of T antigen expression and chloramphenicol acetyltransferase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated that a positive element, probably the distal intestine-specific DNaseI HS, necessary to target the expression of the transgene in the intestine, is present between -4400 and -1011 bp. The cephalo-caudal gradient of expression of the transgene along the small intestine was similar to those of the endogenous gene, but an ectopic expression of the transgene was observed in the colon. The -1011 transgene was expressed in epithelial alveolar cells of the lung, in renal proximal tubule cells, and in uterine myometrium, as judged from immunocytochemical, histological, and Northern blot analyses. The shortest, -117 construct was only expressed in uterine myometrium, and it was under a strict estrogen dependence like the endogenous gene. Finally, responsiveness to vitamin D in the duodenum was observed with the largest, -4400 construct. Thus, different tissues utilize distinct cis-acting elements to direct and regulate the expression of the rat CaBP9K gene.

Transimmortalized mouse intestinal cells (m-ICc12) that maintain a crypt phenotype

This study describes the properties of a clone of immortalized cells (m-ICc12 cells) derived from the bases of small intestinal villi from 20-day-old fetuses of L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK)/ TAg1 transgenic mice. The mice harbor the simian virus 40 large T antigen under the control of the 5' regulatory sequence from the L-PK gene. m-ICc12 cells expressed nuclear large T antigen, had a prolonged life span, and were nontumorigenic when injected into nude mice. They formed confluent monolayers of cuboid cells separated by tight junctions, developed dense, short apical microvilli, and formed domes. They also possessed cytokeratins, villin, aminopeptidase N, dipeptidyl-peptidase IV, and glucoamylase and retained crypt cell features, including intracellular sucrase isomaltase and alpha-L-fucose glycoconjugates accumulation and expression of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene. Thus the m-ICc12 cell line obtained by targeted oncogenesis in transgenic mice maintained in culture several important properties and differentiated functions of intestinal crypt cells.

Relationships between intermediate filaments and cell-specific functions in renal cell lines derived from transgenic mice harboring the temperature-sensitive T antigen

Four renal cell lines were derived from glomeruli, proximal, distal, and cortical collecting tubules microdissected from the kidneys of transgenic mice carrying the temperature-sensitive mutant of the simian virus 40 large T antigen under the control of the vimentin promoter. All four cell lines contained large T antigen in their nuclei, grew rapidly, and contained vimentin filaments when grown in serum-enriched medium at the permissive temperature of 33 degrees C. The glomerular cell line formed multiple layers of cells and contained smooth muscle actin and desmin filaments, features of mesangial cells. The three tubule cell lines formed monolayers of polarized cuboid cells separated by tight junctions and having a patchy distribution of cytokeratins K8-K18. A shift from 33 degrees C to the restrictive temperature (39.5 degrees C) stopped cell growth in all cell lines and caused profound changes in the content of intermediate filaments. Vimentin was still present in mesangial-like cells, but the proximal, distal, and collecting tubule cells contained uniform networks of cytokeratins K8-K18 and desmoplakin I and II around the cell peripheries. Potassium transport, mediated by Na+-K+ ATPase pumps and specific cAMP hormonal sensitivities, significantly increased in proximal, distal, and collecting tubule cells when shifted from 33 degrees C to 39.5 degrees C. Thus, the temperature-dependent inactivation of large T antigen, responsible for the arrest of cell growth, did not affect the phenotype of mesangial-like glomerular cells but induced some changes in the expression of intermediate filaments and restored, at least partially, the main parental cell-specific functions in proximal, distal, and collecting tubule cultured cells.

Cultured proximal cells derived from transgenic mouse provide a model to study drug toxicity

The effects of gentamicin on N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and acid phosphatase (AcP), two lysosomal enzymes present in proximal renal tubule cells, were studied in the PKSV-PCT cell line derived from proximal convoluted tubules from the kidney of a transgenic mouse carrying SV40 large T antigen under the control of the L-type pyruvate kinase gene. Gentamicin (400 micrograms/ml for 72 hr) did not alter cell viability, but significantly reduced cell growth and favored the formation of myeloid bodies. Gentamicin (50 to 800 micrograms/ml for 72 hr) decreased in a dose-dependent manner the cellular NAG in PKSV-PCT cells and stimulated its secretion by 20 to 60%. Chloroquine (50 to 100 microns) and ammonium chloride (NH4Cl, 30mM), two lysosomotropic amines known to stimulate the secretion of lysosomal enzymes in fibroblasts and macrophages, also stimulated secreted NAG in PKSV-PCT cells. However, the effect of chloroquine was less marked in PKSV-PCT cells than in cultured mouse 3T3 fibroblasts. Gentamicin induced lysosomal alkalinization but, in contrast to chloroquine and NH4Cl, the aminoside strongly stimulated the secretion of AcP. The secretion induced by gentamicin was nonpolarized, since the percentage of secreted NAG significantly increased from both the apical and basal sides of PKSV-PCT cells grown on permeable filters. Thus, these data suggest that gentamicin alters the secretion of NAG and AcP by a non-specific pathway and indicate that the PKSV-PCT cell line is a suitable system to examine the cellular action of drugs in kidney proximal tubule cells.

Role of F-actin in the activation of Na(+)-K(+)-Cl- cotransport by forskolin and vasopressin in mouse kidney cultured thick ascending limb cells

The influence of microtubules and F-actin on Na(+)-K(+)-Cl- cotransport was investigated in cultured cells derived from outer-medullary thick ascending limb tubules microdissected from the mouse kidney. The cultured cells contained Tamm-Horsfall protein, produced cAMP in response to dD-arginine vasopressin (dD-AVP), isoproterenol, prostaglandin E2 and forskolin (FK), and exhibited an ouabain-resistant furosemide-sensitive (Or-Fs) component of 86Rb+ influx mediated by the Na(+)-K(+)-Cl- cotransporter. Both FK and dD-AVP stimulated the Or-Fs component of Rb+ influx. Neither agent altered the tubulin and cytokeratin networks nor the shape of the tight junction using a specific anti-ZO-1 antibody. In contrast, they did induce a marked redistribution of F-actin to the periphery of the cells delineating the tight junctions. Preincubation of the cells with nocodazole, to disrupt microtubules, did not alter the FK- or dD-AVP-elicited Or-Fs Rb+ influx. In contrast, phalloidin and NBD-phallicidin, which stabilize F-actin, markedly impaired the stimulation of Na(+)-K(+)-Cl- cotransport by FK or dD-AVP, without affecting the Na(+)-K+ ATPase pumps and the rate constant of 36Cl- and 86Rb+ efflux. These results strongly suggested that cAMP-stimulated Na(+)-K(+)-Cl- cotransport is linked to F-actin in renal TAL cells.

Peptide YY receptors in the proximal tubule PKSV-PCT cell line derived from transgenic mice. Relation with cell growth

Receptors for peptide YY (PYY) were identified in the PKSV-PCT renal proximal tubule cell line, derived from transgenic mice (SV40 large T antigen under the control of the rat L-type pyruvate kinase 5'-regulatory sequence). Binding of [125I-Tyr36]monoiodo-PYY ([125I] PYY to cell was specific, saturable, and reversible. The order of potency for peptides for inhibiting [125I]PYY binding was: PYY > neuropeptide Y (NPY) = PYY (13-36) >> pancreatic polypeptide. A single class of receptors was observed with a Kd of 0.37 +/- 0.05 nM and a Bmax of 103 +/- 10 fmol/mg protein. After cross-linking, electrophoresis of covalent [125I]PYY-receptor complexes revealed a single band of M(r) 50,000. PYY receptors were exclusively present at the basolateral membrane surface of polarized cells and were coupled negatively to adenylylcyclase by a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein. PKSV-PCT cell growth and T antigen expression could be modulated by D-glucose in the medium. PYY receptors were exclusively expressed in proliferative cells cultured in the presence of D-glucose. PYY receptors disappeared in the absence of D-glucose and were expressed again when proliferation was activated by reintroduction of D-glucose. PYY stimulated cell growth (17-26% increase) and promoted [methyl-3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA (64% increase; ED50 = 5 nM PYY) of cells grown in D-glucose-enriched medium. This latter effect of PYY was largely reversed by pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin. These findings suggest that PYY receptors play a role in epithelial cell growth.

Establishment of renal proximal tubule cell lines by targeted oncogenesis in transgenic mice using the L-pyruvate kinase-SV40 (T) antigen hybrid gene

Targeted oncogenesis allowed us to obtain two cell lines which have been derived from the proximal tubule of kidney from transgenic mice harbouring the simian virus (SV40) large T and small t antigens placed under the control of the 5′ regulatory sequence from the rat L-type pyruvate kinase (L-PK) gene. The cell lines (PKSV-PCT and PKSV-PR cells) were derived from early (PCT) and late (Pars Recta, PR) microdissected proximal tubules grown in D-glucose-enriched medium. In such conditions of culture, both cell lines exhibited L-PK transcripts, a stable expression of SV40-encoded nuclear large T antigen, a prolonged life span but failed to induce tumors when injected sub-cutaneously into athymic (nu-nu) mice. Confluent cells, grown on plastic support or porous filters, were organized as monolayers of polarized cuboid cells with well developed apical microvilli and formed domes. Both cell lines exhibited morphological features of proximal tubule cells with villin located in the apical brush-border and substantial amounts of hydrolase activity. By immunofluorescence studies using specific antibodies, aminopeptidase N appeared restricted to the apical microvillar domain, whereas the H2 histocompatibility antigen was distributed in the cytoplasm and lateral membranes. These results demonstrate that the proximal morphological phenotype has been fully preserved in these cultured cells derived from tissue-specific targeted oncogenesis in transgenic mice.

Immunodetection and localization of protein(s) related to retinal S-antigen (arrestin) in kidney

S-antigen (arrestin) is a cytosolic protein which regulates phototransduction in retinal rods. A protein immunologically related to S-antigen was identified in fractions from soluble extract of bovine kidney enriched by gel filtration or by immunoaffinity chromatography using a polyclonal antibody to retinal S-antigen. On immunoblots, this protein was recognized by a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs S2D2, S1A3 and S9E2) directed against different S-antigen epitopes and displayed the same apparent molecular mass (48 kDa) as retinal S-antigen. All three mAbs revealed a specific immunoreactivity by indirect immunocytochemical technique on rat kidney sections. The three mAbs recognized some but not all glomerular cells, identified as epithelial cells by immunoelectron microscopy using the mAb S9E2. Both mAbs S2D2 and S1A3 gave a diffuse cytoplasmic staining in all tubule cells. Proximal tubule cells exhibited a weak immunoreactivity, whereas distal and collecting tubule cells were strongly labeled. In contrast, the mAb S9E2 immunoreaction was restricted to a cell subpopulation from distal and collecting tubules corresponding to intercalated cells identified by immunoelectron microscopy. With the mAb S9E2, the labeling of proximal tubule cells was localized in the apical region of the cytoplasm. These results suggest that two or more 48-kDa proteins immunologically cross-reactive with retinal S-antigen are present in kidney. The observed pattern of distribution is in keeping with the hypothesis that such proteins could play a role in the regulation of G-protein-related receptors present in renal glomerulus and tubule epithelial cells.

gamma-Aminobutyric acid-containing terminals can be apposed to glycine receptors at central synapses

The distributions of terminals containing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and of endings apposed to glycine receptors were investigated cytochemically in the ventral horn of the rat spinal cord. For this purpose, a polyclonal antibody raised to recognize glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), a synthetic enzyme for GABA, and three monoclonal antibodies (mAb's) directed against the glycine receptor were used. Double immunofluorescence showed that, surprisingly, GAD-positive terminals are closely associated in this system with glycine receptors at all the investigated cells, most of which were spinal motoneurons. Furthermore, double labeling was performed with immunoenzymatic recognition of GAD and indirect marking of mAb's with colloidal gold. With this combined approach, it was found, at the electron microscopic level, that all GAD-positive terminals are in direct apposition with glycine receptors while, on the other hand, not all glycine receptors are in front of GABA-containing boutons. This result is not due to a cross-reactivity of mAb's with GABA receptors as shown by using as a control synapses known to use GABA as a neurotransmitter in the cerebellar cortex. Indeed, no glycine receptor immunoreactivity was detected on Purkinje cells facing basket axon terminals. However, Purkinje neurons can express glycine receptor immunoreactivity at other synaptic contacts. Assuming that the presence of postsynaptic receptors for glycine indicates that this amino acid is used for neurotransmission at a given synapse, our results strongly support the notion that GABA and glycine, two classical inhibitory transmitters, coexist at some central connections. However, such is not always the case; in the cerebellum, Golgi terminals impinging on the dendrites of granule cells are either GAD-positive or face glycine receptors, in a well-segregated manner.

Indirect immunoselection of late distal cell populations from rabbit kidney cortex

This study describes a method for the separation of distal cell populations based on the sequestration of proximal cells on immunoadsorbent columns (CNBr-activated Sepharose 6MB) bound with three brush-border monoclonal antibodies (S6-Mab). A high yield of isolated cell suspension from rabbit kidney cortex was prepared by mechanical dissociation after perfusion and incubation of the kidneys with 10(-3) M EDTA. The sequestration of the proximal cells was achieved in two sequential chromatographic steps. About 92% of the applied cells were first retained on an S6-Mab column after a 60-min stationary stage and the unbound cells were submitted by direct flow to a second S6-Mab column. In such conditions, 8 X 10(6) cells were recovered when starting with 331 X 10(6) cortical cells. The efficiency of the proximal cell depletion process was confirmed by an 80% decrease in brush-border enzymes, a very low phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase activity, and absence of cells bearing long microvilli, as ascertained by electron microscopy. This immunodepleted cell population presented the enzymatical characteristics of cells from the more distal segments. As compared with the initial cell suspension, these cells exhibited higher hexokinase (2.3 times), succinate dehydrogenase (1.5 times), and Na+-K+-ATPase (2.6 times) activities. In addition, adenylate cyclase activities remained sensitive to parathormone, arginine vasopressin, and isoproterenol. The functional capacity of these immunodepleted cells was assessed by an almost complete exclusion of eosin dye, a low Na+ and high K+ intracellular content, and a high respiratory rate of oxygen consumption. In conclusion, this immunoselective process makes it possible to obtain subpopulations of renal cortical cells possessing the main characteristics of the distal, connecting, and collecting cells for physiological and metabolic studies.

Distribution of glycine receptors at central synapses: an immunoelectron microscopy study

The distribution of receptors for a neurotransmitter was investigated cytochemically for the first time in the central nervous system, at synapses established on cells of the ventral horn of the rat cervical spinal cord. Three monoclonal antibodies (mAb's) raised against glycine receptors were used. Immunofluorescent staining already showed discontinuous labeling at the surface of neurons, and immunoenzymatic electron microscopy further revealed that the antigenic determinants were confined to the postsynaptic membrane and concentrated at the level of the synaptic complex. More specifically, one mAb directed against the receptive subunit of the oligomeric receptor recognized an epitope on the extracellular side of the plasma membrane, whereas two other mAb's bound to the cytoplasmic face. Epitopes for the last two mAb's were more accurately localized with protein A-colloidal gold, using an intermediate rabbit anti-mouse immunoglobulin serum. (a) In addition to the presence of gold particles in areas facing the presynaptic active zone (visualized with ethanolic phosphotungstic acid), the labeling extended beyond this zone for approximately 50-60 nm, which corresponds to the width of one presynaptic dense projection. (b) The distances between the mid membrane and the gold particles were different for the two mAb's (with means of 21.7 +/- 8.5 nm and 29.8 +/- 10.4 nm, respectively). The data suggest that one of the recognized epitopes is close to the plasma membrane, whereas the second protrudes into the cytoplasm. Our results indicate that the receptor is a transmembrane protein which has a restricted spatial distribution on the postsynaptic neuronal surface.

Cellular heterogeneity of uridine incorporation in collecting tubules: effect of DOCA

In previous studies we showed that in vitro uridine incorporation along the renal tubule is heterogeneous and that DOCA induces a stimulation of RNA synthesis in distal cortical and medullary structures. The present work examines by autoradiography of isolated tubules and renal tissue sections the cellular heterogeneity of the connecting (CNT) and cortical collecting (CCT) tubules after in vivo injection of [3H]uridine in normal and DOCA-treated rabbits. Data confirmed the profile of uridine incorporation along the tubule, which was found in in vitro experiments, and the DOCA-induced stimulation of RNA synthesis. In microdissected CNT and CCT of control kidneys, statistical analysis of the distribution of labeling revealed the presence of two distinct cell populations: one with low labeling (2-3 silver grains per nucleus) and one with high labeling (10-13), which represent 64 and 36%, respectively (CNT), and 74 and 26%, respectively (CCT), of the whole population. Histological data showed that the respective proportions of intercalated cells (29% in CNT; 21% in CCT) and connecting tubule cells (65%) or principal cells (79%) are close to those of the populations with high or low labeling. In addition, autoradiographs on renal sections directly demonstrated that the labeling of intercalated cells (19.3 silver grains/100 micron2 nuclear surface in CNT; 14.7 in CCT) was three times higher than that of connecting (6.6) or principal (5.8) cells. In isolated CNT and CCT, DOCA induced similar absolute increases in the labeling of the two populations. However, the relative increase was more than two times higher in the population with low labeling (+131% in CNT, +210% in CCT) than in the one with high labeling (+71% and +98%). We conclude that cell population of the collecting cortical tubule (CNT and CCT) is heterogeneous with regard to uridine incorporation, reflecting RNA synthesis.

Myocardial cell nucleus in cardiac overloading in the rat

The myocardial cell nucleus was studied in the rat during its normal growth and under different types of heart overloading. Under overloading of short duration, a disappearance of condensed chromatin and an increase in the nucleolus and nucleolonema were interpreted as representing cell overactivity. With isoproterenol overloading, a first stage of cell necrosis and of its consequences on chromatin and nucleolus was followed by the process of cell repair and overactivity. With overloading of long duration, several different nuclear aspects were encountered: (a) enlarged and distorted nuclei as possible supports of polyploidy; (b) a partial coupling between two adjacent nuclei, interpreted either as nuclear fusion or amitosis; (c) segregation of different proteins, probably due to cell damage. The number of nuclei per myocyte was high (90%) in the adult. It decreased (80%) two days after isoproterenol overloading, as well as in heart hypertrophy of 6-9-months duration. Nuclear size increased under isoproterenol overdosage of 48-h duration. The amount of nuclear DNA also increased two days after isoproterenol overdosage, particularly in mononucleated cells.

Heterogeneity of uridine incorporation along the rabbit nephron. I. Autoradiographic study

We present here an autoradiographic study of uridine labeling in tubular segments micro-dissected from the rabbit kidney. Kidney pyramids were incubated for 60 min with low (66 nM) and high (66 microM) [3H]-uridine concentration. At the two concentrations studied the labeling was almost exclusively nuclear in all segments studied. At the low concentration, labeling predominated in the macula densa (MD = 63.88 +/- 6.15 silver grains/100 micron2, n = 11), cortical ascending limb (CAL = 19.65 +/- 1.65, n = 15), and initial distal tubule (DCTa = 24.31 +/- 2.70, n = 6). It was minimal in the proximal tubule (PCT2 = 9.14 +/- 1.61, n = 16) and in the cortical (CCT = 5.23 +/- 0.75, n = 18) and medullary (MCT = 5.52 +/- 1.10, n = 12) collecting ducts. At a high concentration, the profile of labeling was roughly similar except for a relative increase in labeling much more pronounced in collecting ducts (CCT = +373, MCT = +323%) than in the other structures (MD = -14, CAL = +66, DCTa = +49, PCT = +9%). Pulse-chase experiments do not show evidence for differences in turnover or degradation rates of RNA between segments, at least in the PCT and the connecting part of the CCT. Analysis of the results at low and high concentration suggests that the observed heterogeneity in uridine labeling depends on both variable endogenous nucleoside pools and different rates of uridine incorporation into RNA from one segment to another.

[Comparative study of light and electron microscopic aspects of myocardial lesions induced in the rat by oils with several amounts of gamma-linolenic acid (author's transl)]

Four different oils : onager oil, mixture of onager oil (20 p. cent) and middle class triglyceride, sunflower oil and soybean oil were given to the rat during three different periods of time : 1) during 3 months after weaning ; 2) during 6 months after weaning ; 3) from the 9th to 15th months. Three types of myocardial lesions were found : interstitial inflammatory reaction, foci of cellular necrosis and fibrosis. The semi-quantitative study of these lesions did not find important differences from one oil to the other, as well as with the controls. However, subgroups onager are among the least altered, particularly as far as necrotic lesions are concerned. Morphometry of mitochondria, despite evident alterations under electron microscope, gave similar results in every groups.