Heat shock protein 70 kDa over-expression and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced nigrostriatal degeneration in mice

Oxidative damage in the dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Heat shock proteins 70 kDa (HSP70s) are a sub-family of molecular chaperones involved in not only protein folding and degradation but also antioxidant defense and anti-apoptotic pathways. Here, a transgenic mice over-expressing an inducible form of Hsp70 was used to determine whether HSP70 affects 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced nigrostriatal degeneration, an experimental model of PD. The Hsp70 transgenic animals exhibited a high level of expression of HSP70 protein in ventral mesencephalon. Dopaminergic cell death in the SNpc was similar between wild-type and Hsp70 transgenic mice with either acute (40 mg/kg, single dose) or chronic (20 mg/kg, three times/week during 1 month) MPTP treatment. In addition, striatal dopamine loss was not different between wild-type and transgenic animals. Three months after the acute MPTP treatment, dopamine loss was partially recovered into a similar level between wild-type and transgenic groups. In conclusion, over-expression of Hsp70 does not suppress dopaminergic neuronal damage at either the somata or the axon terminals of dopaminergic neurons. Hsp70 over-expression does not help axon terminal regeneration either. These results indicate that HSP70 alone is not sufficient to reduce MPTP-induced dopaminergic neuronal damage.

Mitochondrial fragmentation and superoxide anion production in coronary endothelial cells from a mouse model of type 1 diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Mitochondria frequently change their shapes by fusion and fission and these morphological dynamics play important roles in mitochondrial function and development as well as programmed cell death. The goal of this study is to investigate whether: (1) mitochondria in mouse coronary endothelial cells (MCECs) isolated from diabetic mice exhibit increased fragmentation; and (2) chronic treatment with a superoxide anion (O(2)(-)) scavenger has a beneficial effect on mitochondrial fragmentation in MCECs.

METHODS

MCECs were freshly isolated and lysed for protein measurement, or cultured to determine mitochondrial morphology and O(2)(-) production. For the ex vivo hyperglycaemia experiments, human coronary endothelial cells were used.

RESULTS

Elongated mitochondrial tubules were observed in MCECs isolated from control mice, whereas mitochondria in MCECs from diabetic mice exhibited augmented fragmentation. The level of optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) protein, which leads to mitochondrial fusion, was significantly decreased, while dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), which leads to mitochondrial fission, was significantly increased in MCECs from diabetic mice. Diabetic MCECs exhibited significantly higher O(2)(-) concentrations in cytosol and mitochondria than control MCECs. Administration of the O(2)(-) scavenger TEMPOL to diabetic mice for 4 weeks led to a significant decrease in mitochondrial fragmentation without altering the levels of OPA1 and DRP1 proteins in MCECs. High-glucose treatment for 24 h significantly induced mitochondrial fragmentation, which was restored by TEMPOL treatment. In addition, excess O(2)(-) production, either in cytosol or in mitochondria, significantly increased mitochondrial fragmentation.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

These data suggest that lowering the O(2)(-) concentration can restore the morphological change in mitochondria and may help improve mitochondrial function in diabetic MCECs.

Cellular action of thyroid hormone on the heart

Changes in thyroid status markedly influence cardiac contractile and electrical activity. The predominant route by which triiodothyronine (T3) affects cardiac action is by exerting a direct effect in cardiac myocytes through binding to thyroid hormone nuclear receptor isoforms. In addition, T3 modifies cardiac action by alterations in the vascular system and decreases afterload of the left ventricle by subtle modification related to the sympathetic system. The importance of T3 nuclear receptor function has been further demonstrated by studies in null mutant mice in which thyroid hormone receptor-alpha (TRalpha) and thyroid hormone receptor-beta (TRbeta) or both are deleted. In mice with null mutations of the TRalpha, a markedly decreased heart rate and decreased contractile performance occurs in contrast to mice with deletion of TRbeta that have a normal heart rate and a normal contractile performance under baseline conditions. Thyroid hormone influences on heart rate are exerted by specific ion channel proteins in the sinus node of the left atrium. Some of these ion channels, such as the IF channel, the sodium/calcium exchanger protein, the L-type and T-type calcium channel, and the ryanodine channel are targets for thyroid hormone action. The increased contractile performance induced by T3 is largely mediated by increased expression of the calcium adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and decreased expression of phospholamban and T3 increases the phosphorylation status of phospholamban. The significant influence that is exerted by thyroid hormone signaling system related to contractile and electrical activity in the heart and the molecular basis for these alterations continues to be clarified.

Sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase-2 expression is regulated by ATF6 during the endoplasmic reticulum stress response: intracellular signaling of calcium stress in a cardiac myocyte model system

The recently described transcription factor, ATF6, mediates the expression of proteins that compensate for potentially stressful changes in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), such as reduced ER calcium. In cardiac myocytes the maintenance of optimal calcium levels in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), a specialized form of the ER, is required for proper contractility. The present study investigated the hypothesis that ATF6 serves as a regulator of the expression of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase-2 (SERCA2), a protein that transports calcium into the SR from the cytoplasm. Depletion of SR calcium in cultured cardiac myocytes fostered the translocation of ATF6 from the ER to the nucleus, activated the promoter for rat SERCA2, and led to increased levels of SERCA2 protein. SERCA2 promoter induction by calcium depletion was partially blocked by dominant-negative ATF6, whereas constitutively activated ATF6 led to SERCA2 promoter activation. Mutation analyses identified a promoter-proximal ER stress-response element in the rat SERCA2 gene that was required for maximal induction by ATF6 and calcium depletion. Although this element was shown to be responsible for all of the effects of ATF6 on SERCA2 promoter activation, it was responsible for only a portion of the effects of calcium depletion. Thus, SERCA2 induction in response to calcium depletion appears to be a potentially physiologically important compensatory response to this stress that involves intracellular signaling pathways that are both dependent and independent of ATF6.

Transgenic expression of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) atpase modifies the transition from hypertrophy to early heart failure

To examine the contribution of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase (SERCA2a) to early heart failure, we subjected transgenic (TG) mice expressing SERCA2a gene and wild-type (WT) mice to aortic stenosis (AS) for 7 weeks. At an early stage of hypertrophy (4-week AS), in vivo hemodynamic and echocardiographic indices were similar in TG and WT mice. By 7 weeks of AS, which is the stage of early failure in this model, TG mice with AS had lower mortality than WT mice with AS (6.7% versus 29%). The magnitude of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy was similar in WT and TG 7-week AS mice. In vivo LV systolic function was higher in TG than in WT 7-week AS mice. In LV myocytes loaded with fluo-3, fractional cell shortening and the amplitude of the [Ca(2+)](i) transients were higher in TG than in WT 7-week AS mice under baseline conditions (0.5 Hz, 1.5 mmol/L [Ca(2+)](o), 25 degrees C). The rates of relengthening and decay in [Ca(2+)](i) were faster in TG than in WT 7-week AS myocytes. In myocytes from WT 7-week AS compared with sham-operated WT mice, contractile reserve in response to rapid pacing was depressed with impaired augmentation of both peak-systolic [Ca(2+)](i) and the SR Ca(2+) load. In contrast, contractile reserve and the capacity to augment SR Ca(2+) load were maintained in TG 7-week AS mice. SERCA2a protein levels were depressed in WT 7-week AS mice, but were preserved in TG 7-week AS mice. These data suggest that defective SR Ca(2+) loading contributes to the onset of contractile failure in animals with chronic pressure overload.

Over-expression of inducible HSP70 chaperone suppresses neuropathology and improves motor function in SCA1 mice

Many neurodegenerative diseases are caused by gain-of-function mechanisms in which the disease-causing protein is altered, becomes toxic to the cell, and aggregates. Among these 'proteinopathies' are Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, prion disorders and polyglutamine diseases. Members of this latter group, also known as triplet repeat diseases, are caused by the expansion of unstable CAG repeats coding for glutamine within the respective proteins. Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is one such disease, characterized by loss of motor coordination due to the degeneration of cerebellar Purkinje cells and brain stem neurons. In SCA1 and several other polyglutamine diseases, the expanded protein aggregates into nuclear inclusions (NIs). Because these NIs accumulate molecular chaperones, ubiquitin and proteasomal subunits--all components of the cellular protein re-folding and degradation machinery--we hypothesized that protein misfolding and impaired protein clearance might underlie the pathogenesis of polyglutamine diseases. Over-expressing specific chaperones reduces protein aggregation in transfected cells and suppresses neurodegeneration in invertebrate animal models of polyglutamine disorders. To determine whether enhancing chaperone activity could mitigate the phenotype in a mammalian model, we crossbred SCA1 mice with mice over-expressing a molecular chaperone (inducible HSP70 or iHSP70). We found that high levels of HSP70 did indeed afford protection against neurodegeneration.

Impaired sarcoplasmic reticulum function leads to contractile dysfunction and cardiac hypertrophy

Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-mediated Ca(2+) sequestration and release are important determinants of cardiac contractility. In end-stage heart failure SR dysfunction has been proposed to contribute to the impaired cardiac performance. In this study we tested the hypothesis that a targeted interference with SR function can be a primary cause of contractile impairment that in turn might alter cardiac gene expression and induce cardiac hypertrophy. To study this we developed a novel animal model in which ryanodine, a substance that alters SR Ca(2+) release, was added to the drinking water of mice. After 1 wk of treatment, in vivo hemodynamic measurements showed a 28% reduction in the maximum speed of contraction (+dP/dt(max)) and a 24% reduction in the maximum speed of relaxation (-dP/dt(max)). The slowing of cardiac relaxation was confirmed in isolated papillary muscles. The late phase of relaxation expressed as the time from 50% to 90% relaxation was prolonged by 22%. After 4 wk of ryanodine administration the animals had developed a significant cardiac hypertrophy that was most prominent in both atria (right atrium +115%, left atrium +100%, right ventricle +23%, and left ventricle +13%). This was accompanied by molecular changes including a threefold increase in atrial natriuretic factor mRNA and a sixfold increase in beta-myosin heavy chain mRNA. Sarcoplasmic endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) mRNA was reduced by 18%. These data suggest that selective impairment of SR function in vivo can induce changes in cardiac gene expression and promote cardiac growth.

Combined and individual mitochondrial HSP60 and HSP10 expression in cardiac myocytes protects mitochondrial function and prevents apoptotic cell deaths induced by simulated ischemia-reoxygenation

BACKGROUND

The mitochondrial heat-shock proteins HSP60 and HSP10 form a mitochondrial chaperonin complex, and previous studies have shown that their increased expression exerts a protective effect against ischemic injury when cardiac myocytes are submitted to simulated ischemia. The more detailed mechanisms by which such a protective effect occurs are currently unclear. We wanted to determine whether HSP60 and HSP10 could exert a protection against simulated ischemia and reoxygenation (SI/RO)-induced apoptotic cell death and whether such protection results from decreased mitochondrial cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation and from the preservation of ATP levels by preservation of the electron transport chain complexes. In addition, we explored whether increased expression of HSP60 or HSP10 by itself exerts a protective effect.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We overexpressed HSP60 and HSP10 together or separately in rat neonatal cardiac myocytes using an adenoviral vector and then subjected the myocytes to SI/RO. Cell death and apoptosis in myocytes were quantified by parameters such as enzyme release, DNA fragmentation, and caspase-3 activation. Overexpression of the combination of HSP60 and HSP10 and of HSP60 or HSP10 individually protected myocytes against apoptosis. This protection is accompanied by decreases in mitochondrial cytochrome c release and in caspase-3 activity and increases in ATP recovery and activities of complex III and IV in mitochondria after SI/RO.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that mitochondrial chaperonins HSP60 and HSP10 in combination or individually play an important role in maintaining mitochondrial integrity and capacity for ATP generation, which are the crucial factors in determining survival of cardiac myocytes undergoing ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Transgene overexpression of alphaB crystallin confers simultaneous protection against cardiomyocyte apoptosis and necrosis during myocardial ischemia and reperfusion

We investigated whether enhanced expression of alphaB crystallin, a stress-inducible molecular chaperone of the small heat shock family, can protect myocardial contractile apparatus against ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. Transgenic mice overexpressing alphaB crystallin were generated using the 0.76 kb rat alphaB crystallin cDNA cloned into a pCAGGS plasmid driven by a human cytomegalovirus expression system. Southern analysis confirmed transgene integration and Northern and Western blotting characterized expression (3.1-fold and 6.9-fold elevations in myocardial mRNA and protein levels, respectively). Extent of functional recovery over a 3 h reperfusion period following a 20 min ischemic period in transgenic and wild-type mouse hearts was assessed using an ex vivo work-performing heart preparation. The transgenic group displayed significantly higher values of DP at R45 min (29.14+/-1.9 mm Hg vs. 17.6+/-0.7 mm Hg), R60 min (31.56+/-1.7 mm Hg vs. 17.8+/-0.8 mm Hg), and R75 min (32.5+/-2.2 mm Hg vs. 16.9+/-0.9 mm Hg), and of dLVP/dt at R45 min (1740.2+/-111.5 mm Hg.s-1 vs. 548.7+/-82.2 mm Hg.s-1) and R60 min (1199.8+/-104.6 mm Hg.s-1 vs. 466.9+/-61.1 mm Hg.s-1). The transgenic group also displayed development of less oxidative stress, decreased extent of infarction, and attenuated cardiomyocyte apoptotic cell death. Transgene overexpression of alphaB crystallin was therefore successful in diminishing the independent contributory effects of both necrosis and apoptosis on I/R-induced cell death.

Selective modulation of thyroid hormone receptor action

Thyroid hormones have some actions that might be useful therapeutically, but others that are deleterious. Potential therapeutically useful actions include those to induce weight loss and lower plasma cholesterol levels. Potential deleterious actions are those on the heart to induce tachycardia and arrhythmia, on bone to decrease mineral density, and on muscle to induce wasting. There have been successes in selectively modulating the actions of other classes of hormones through various means, including the use of pharmaceuticals that have enhanced affinities for certain receptor isoforms. Thus, there is reason to pursue selective modulation of thyroid hormone receptor (TR) function, and several agents have been shown to have some beta-selective, hepatic selective and/or cardiac sparring activities, although development of these was largely not based on detailed understanding of mechanisms for the specificity. The possibility of selectively targeting the TRbeta was suggested by the findings that there are alpha- and beta-TR forms and that the TRalpha-forms may preferentially regulate the heart rate, whereas many other actions of these hormones are mediated by the TRbeta. We determined X-ray crystal structures of the TRalpha and TRbeta ligand-binding domains (LBDs) complexed with the thyroid hormone analog 3,5,3'-triiodithyroacetic acid (Triac). The data suggested that a single amino acid difference in the ligand-binding cavities of the two receptors could affect hydrogen bonding in the receptor region, where the ligand's 1-position substituent fits and might be exploited to generate beta-selective ligands. The compound GC-1, with oxoacetate in the 1-position instead of acetate as in Triac, exhibited TRbeta-selective binding and actions in cultured cells. An X-ray crystal structure of the GC-1-TRbeta LBD complex suggests that the oxoacetate does participate in a network of hydrogen bonding in the TR LBD polar pocket. GC-1 displayed actions in tadpoles that were TRbeta-selective. When administered to mice, GC-1 was as effective in lowering plasma cholesterol levels as T(3), and was more effective than T(3) in lowering plasma triglyceride levels. At these doses, GC-1 did not increase the heart rate. GC-1 was also less active than T(3) in modulating activities of several other cardiac parameters, and especially a cardiac pacemaker channel such as HCN-2, which may participate in regulation of the heart rate. GC-1 showed intermediate activity in suppressing plasma thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The tissue/plasma ratio for GC-1 in heart was also less than for the liver. These data suggest that compounds can be generated that are TR-selective and that compounds with this property and/or that exhibit selective uptake, might have clinical utility as selective TR modulators.

Functional properties of skeletal muscle from transgenic animals with upregulated heat shock protein 70

The influence of inducible heat stress proteins on protecting contracting skeletal muscle against fatigue-induced injury was investigated. A line of transgenic mice overexpressing the inducible form of the 72-kDa heat shock protein (HSP72) in skeletal muscles was used. We examined the relationship between muscle contractility and levels of the constitutive (HSC73) and inducible (HSP72) forms of the 72-kDa heat shock protein in intact, mouse extensor digitorum longus (EDL), soleus (SOL), and the diaphragm (DPH). In all transgenic muscles, HSP72 was expressed at higher levels compared with transgene-negative controls, where HSP72 was below the level of detection. At the same time, HSC73 levels were downregulated in all transgenic muscle types. Shipment-related stress caused an elevation in the levels of HSP72 in all muscles for 1 wk after arrival of the animals. We also found that, although no statistical differences in response to intermittent fatiguing stimulation in the contractile properties of intact transgene-positive muscles compared with their transgene-negative counterparts were observed, the response of intact transgene-positive EDL muscles to caffeine was enhanced. These findings demonstrate that elevated HSP72 does not protect EDL, SOL, or DPH muscles from the effects of intermittent fatiguing stimulation. However, HSP72 may influence the excitation-contraction coupling (ECC) process, either directly or indirectly, in EDL muscle. If the effects on ECC were indirect, then these results would suggest that manipulation of a specific gene might cause functional effects that seem independent of the manipulated gene/protein.

The thyroid hormone receptor-beta-selective agonist GC-1 differentially affects plasma lipids and cardiac activity

Thyroid hormones influence the function of many organs and mediate their diverse actions through two types of thyroid hormone receptors, TRalpha and TRbeta. Little is known about effects of ligands that preferentially interact with the two different TR subtypes. In the current study the comparison of the effects of the novel synthetic TRbeta-selective compound GC-1 with T3 at equimolar doses in hypothyroid mice revealed that GC-1 had better triglyceride-lowering and similar cholesterol-lowering effects than T3. T3, but not GC-1, increased heart rate and elevated messenger RNA levels coding for the I(f) channel (HCN2), a cardiac pacemaker that was decreased in hypothyroid mice. T3 had a larger positive inotropic effect than GC-1. T3, but not GC-1, normalized heart and body weights and messenger RNAs of myosin heavy chain alpha and beta and the sarcoplasmic reticulum adenosine triphosphatase (Serca2). Additional dose-response studies in hypercholesteremic rats confirmed the preferential effect of GC-1 on TRbeta-mediated parameters by showing a much higher potency to influence cholesterol and TSH than heart rate. The preferred accumulation of GC-1 in the liver vs. the heart probably also contributes to its marked lipid-lowering effect vs. the absent effect on heart rate. These data indicate that GC-1 could represent a prototype for new drugs for the treatment of high lipid levels or obesity.

Thyroid hormone-induced stimulation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase gene is inhibited by LIF and IL-6

We investigated the effects of the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) on 3,3', 5-triiodo-L-thyronine, or thyroid hormone (T(3))-stimulated sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase (SERCA2) gene expression on cultured neonatal rat cardiac myocytes. A reduction of T(3) induced increases in SERCA2 mRNA levels after co-treatment with LIF or IL-6. To investigate for the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for the blunted gene expression, a 3.2-kb SERCA2 promoter construct containing a reporter gene was transfected into cardiac myocytes. T(3) treatment stimulated transcriptional activity twofold, whereas co-treatment with T(3) and either of the cytokines caused an inhibition of T(3)-induced SERCA2 transcriptional activity. A T(3)-responsive 0.6-kb SERCA2 construct also showed a similar inhibition by cytokines. Cytokine inhibition of SERCA2 transcriptional activity was also evident when a 0.6-kb SERCA2 mutant, T(3)-unresponsive promoter construct was used. Treatment with T(3) and cytokines showed a significant decrease in transcription when a reporter construct was used that was comprised of direct repeats of SERCA2 thyroid response element I. These data provide evidence for cytokine-mediated inhibitory effects on the SERCA2 promoter that may be mediated by interfering with T(3) action.

Leukemia Inhibitory Factor and Interleukin-6 downregulate sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2) in cardiac myocytes

Alterations in gene expression are a hallmark of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Among these, the decreased expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA2) has been described. Elevated levels of cytokines in particular, Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been shown to have the capacity to elicit hypertrophic responses in cultured cardiac myocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of these cytokines (LIF & IL-6) on the regulation of SERCA2 levels in cardiac myocytes. Cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes were transfected with a 3.2 kb promoter plasmid construct containing the SERCA2 promoter linked to a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter gene, and subsequently treated with 10 ng/ml LIF or 10 ng/ml IL-6. LIF and IL-6 independently caused a significant (p < or = 0.05) 23-36% inhibition in SERCA2 promoter activity. LIF and IL-6 induced inhibition was also evident in SERCA2 mRNA levels as assessed by Northern analysis. Time course of inhibition of SERCA2 mRNA levels showed the most prominent decrease occurring after 48 hours of treatment, with both cytokines having a dose dependent effect on the inhibitory response. Western analysis using a polyclonal antibody to SERCA2 protein indicate a significant, 60% decrease in the amount of total SERCA2 protein in cultured myocytes treated with 10 ng/ml LIF or IL-6. In conclusion, the cytokines LIF and IL-6 downregulate SERCA2 gene expression and protein levels. The molecular mechanism responsible for cytokine induced downregulation of SERCA2 is at least partly transcriptional.

Phospholamban: a major determinant of the cardiac force-frequency relationship

The cardiac force-frequency relationship has been known for over a century, yet its mechanisms have eluded thorough understanding. We investigated the hypothesis that phospholamban, a potent regulator of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA), determines the cardiac force-frequency relationship. Isolated left ventricular papillary muscles from wild-type (WT) and phospholamban knockout (KO) mice were stimulated at 2 to 6 Hz. The force-frequency relationship was positive in WT but negative in KO muscles, i.e., it was inverted by ablation of phospholamban (P < 0.01, n = 6 mice). From 2 to 6 Hz, relaxation accelerated considerably (by 10 ms) in WT muscles but only minimally (by 2 ms) in KO muscles (WT vs. KO: P < 0. 0001, n = 6). To show that the lack of frequency potentiation in KO muscles was not explained by the almost maximal basal contractility, twitch duration was prolonged in six KO muscles with the SERCA inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid to WT values. Relaxation still failed to accelerate with increased frequency. In conclusion, our results clearly identify phospholamban as a major determinant of the cardiac force-frequency relationship.

A role for HSP27 in sensory neuron survival

Peripheral nerve injury in neonatal rats results in the death of the majority of the axotomized sensory neurons by 7 d after injury. In adult animals, however, all sensory neurons survive for at least 4 months after axotomy. How sensory neurons acquire the capacity to survive axonal injury is not known. Here we describe how the expression of the small heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is correlated with neuronal survival after axotomy in vivo and after NGF withdrawal in vitro. The number of HSP27-immunoreactive neurons in the L4 DRG is low at birth and does not change significantly for 21 d after postnatal day 0 (P0) sciatic nerve axotomy. In contrast, in the adult all axotomized neurons begin to express HSP27. One week after P0 sciatic nerve section the total number of neurons in the L4 DRG is dramatically reduced, but all surviving axotomized neurons, as identified by c-jun immunoreactivity, are immunoreactive for HSP27. In addition, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling reveals that very few HSP27-expressing neurons are dying 48 hr after neonatal axotomy. In vitro, a similar correlation exists between HSP27 expression and survival; in P0 DRG cultures, neurons that express HSP27 preferentially survive NGF withdrawal. Finally, overexpression of human HSP27 in neonatal rat sensory and sympathetic neurons significantly increases survival after NGF withdrawal, with nearly twice as many neurons surviving at 48 hr. Together these results suggest that HSP27 in sensory neurons plays a role in promoting survival after axotomy or neurotrophin withdrawal.

Effects of mutant and antisense RNA of phospholamban on SR Ca(2+)-ATPase activity and cardiac myocyte contractility

BACKGROUND

The delayed cardiac relaxation in failing hearts has been attributed to a reduced activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA2). Phospholamban (PLB) inhibits SERCA2 activity and is therefore a potential target to improve the cardiac performance in heart failure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Mutants of PLB (Adv/mPLB) or antisense RNA of PLB (Adv/asPLB) was expressed in cardiac myocytes by recombinant adenovirus, and their effects on SERCA2 activity and myocyte contractility were studied. One mPLB, K3E/R14E, pentamerized with endogenous PLB in neonatal myocytes and resulted in a 45% increase in the affinity of SERCA2 for Ca(2+) and 27% faster diastolic Ca(2+) decline as determined by SR (45)Ca uptake assays and by indo 1-facilitated Ca(2+) transient measurement, respectively. Edge-detection analysis of adult myocyte contractility showed a 74% increase in fractional shortening, accompanied by 115% increase in velocity of relengthening and 25% decrease in time to half-maximal relengthening. In parallel, infection of neonatal cardiac myocytes by Adv/asPLB decreased the endogenous PLB level by 54%, which was associated with a 35% increase in Ca(2+) affinity of SERCA2 and 21% faster diastolic Ca(2+) decline. However, in adult cardiac myocytes, Adv/asPLB failed to significantly alter the endogenous PLB level, the SERCA2 activity, or most of the contractile parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

K3E/R14E is a dominant negative mutant of PLB that disrupts the structural integrity and function of the endogenous PLB and consequently enhances SERCA2 activity and myocyte contractility. In neonatal myocytes, the decrease in steady-state abundance of PLB by asPLB also leads to increased SERCA2 activity.

Overexpression of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase improves cardiac contractile function in hypothyroid mice

OBJECTIVE

Prolonged cardiac contraction and relaxation in hypothyroidism are in part related to diminished expression of the gene coding for the calcium pump of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2a). Therefore, we examined whether or not transgenic SERCA2a gene expression in mice may compensate for the cardiac effects of hypothyroidism.

METHODS

SERCA2a mRNA and protein were analyzed from hearts of euthyroid and hypothyroid mice of wild-type or SERCA2a transgene status. Contractile function was studied in isolated left ventricular papillary muscles.

RESULTS

We found significant decreases of SERCA2a mRNA and protein levels in hearts of hypothyroid wild-type mice in comparison with euthyroid wild-type mice (controls). Papillary muscles from hypothyroid wild-type mice showed significant increases in time to peak contraction and relaxation times compared with controls. In contrast, SERCA2a mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher in hypothyroid SERCA2a transgenic mice than in hypothyroid wild-type mice. The transgene led to a functional improvement by compensating for the prolonged contraction and relaxation of papillary muscles.

CONCLUSIONS

Our murine model of hypothyroidism revealed decreases in SERCA2a gene expression accompanied by prolonged contraction and relaxation of papillary muscles, and an improvement of the contractile phenotype due to compensated SERCA2a gene expression in SERCA2a transgenic mice.

Small heat shock proteins and protection against injury

The small heat shock proteins alpha B crystallin and HSP27 exert a protective effect in response to simulated ischemia. A model is proposed whereby proteins not in their final folding state bind to the outside of the large oligomeric small heat shock protein complexes thus finding a safe haven during ischemia. After the ischemia is resolved, these proteins may be released and, with the help of HSP70, are shuttled to a productive refolding pathway resulting in proteins in their final folding state, which can assume their normal activity in cells recovered from ischemic injury.

Calcium regulatory proteins and their alteration by transgenic approaches

Abnormalities in calcium flux have been linked to abnormal contractile behavior of the heart in patients with congestive heart failure as well as in animal models. Decreased activity or levels of the calcium adenosine triphosphatase of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum (SERCA2) particularly have been known to cause a delay in calcium transients. The SERCA2 protein pumps 2 moles of calcium per mole of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) split from the cytoplasm into the sarcoplasmic reticulum, thus lowering the free cytoplasmic calcium concentration. It therefore is of interest to identify mechanisms by which SERCA activity could be increased in the heart. To determine influences of increased expression of the SERCA2 gene on calcium transient and contractile behavior, we constructed transgenic mice and rats expressing a SERCA2 transgene in their heart. In these animals, a 20% increase in SERCA levels occurs due to additional expression of the SERCA transgene. This leads to a corresponding increase in contractile activity as determined by the increase in left ventricular pressure measured as dP/dt(max) and decrease in diastolic ventricular pressure determined as dP/dt(min). Similarly, isolated cardiac myocytes obtained from the heart of transgenic mice showed an accelerated calcium transient and increased speed of shortening and relengthening as determined by edge detection. To determine if SERCA2 transgene expression could have a compensatory effect on the contractile behavior of the heart in transgenic mice expressing SERCA2, these mice were made hypothyroid, and papillary muscle function was determined. Contractile behavior of the papillary muscle of wild-type hypothyroid mice showed a significant increase in muscle relaxation time (RT50). In contrast, SERCA2 transgenic hypothyroid mice showed normal contractile behavior of papillary muscle. A compensatory effect of SERCA transgene expression was therefore demonstrated. In addition, we constructed transgenic rats expressing a SERCA2 transgene in which constriction of the ascending aorta induced cardiac hypertrophy and a delayed contraction of papillary muscle. In preliminary results, we found that SERCA2 transgenic rats submitted to ascending aortic constriction did not show the delayed relaxation of papillary muscle as was found in wild-type rats submitted to aortic constriction. In addition, adenoviral vectors expressing transgenes for calcium-handling proteins can be used to improve cardiac myocyte contraction. Adenoviruses expressing a SERCA transgene or a mutant phospholamban transgene exhibiting dominant negative action were used to infect isolated myocytes treated with a phorbol ester (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate), which delays the calcium transients. The calcium transients and contractile behavior of the isolated myocytes indicated that increased SERCA expression or increased expression of mutant phospholamban transgene led to increased SERCA2 activity, resulting in an increased contractile phenotype. Recent findings by other investigators also indicate that decreased SERCA2 activity can be increased under in vivo conditions using adenoviral vector-based SERCA2 expression. A gene therapy type of approach delivering increased amounts of SERCA or phospholamban mutants leading to increased SERCA activity should therefore be considered in the future.

Phospholamban-to-SERCA2 ratio controls the force-frequency relationship

The force-frequency relationship (FFR) describes the frequency-dependent potentiation of cardiac contractility. The interaction of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-adenosinetriphosphatase (SERCA2) with its inhibitory protein phospholamban (PLB) might be involved in the control of the FFR. The FFR was analyzed in two systems in which the PLB-to-SERCA2 ratio was modulated. Adult rabbit cardiac myocytes were transduced with adenovirus encoding for SERCA2, PLB, and beta-galactosidase (control). After 3 days, the relative PLB/SERCA2 values were significantly different between groups (SERCA2, 0.5; control, 1.0; PLB, 4.5). SERCA2 overexpression shortened relaxation by 23% relative to control, whereas PLB prolonged relaxation by 39% and reduced contractility by 47% (0.1 Hz). When the stimulation frequency was increased to 1.5 Hz, myocyte contractility was increased by 30% in control myocytes. PLB-overexpressing myocytes showed an augmented positive FFR (+78%), whereas SERCA2-transduced myocytes displayed a negative FFR (-15%). A more negative FFR was also found in papillary muscles from SERCA2 transgenic mice. These findings demonstrate that the ratio of phospholamban to SERCA2 is an important component in the control of the FFR.

Altered cardiac phenotype in transgenic mice carrying the delta337 threonine thyroid hormone receptor beta mutant derived from the S family

The heart has been recognized as a major target of thyroid hormone action. Our study investigates both the regulation of cardiac-specific genes and contractile behavior of the heart in the presence of a mutant thyroid hormone receptor beta1 (T3Rbeta1-delta337T) derived from the S kindred. The mutant receptor was originally identified in a patient with generalized resistance to thyroid hormone. Cardiac expression of the mutant receptor was achieved by a transgenic approach in mice. As the genes for myosin heavy chains (MHC alpha and MHC beta) and the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ adenosine triphosphatase (SERCA2) are known to be regulated by T3, their cardiac expression was analyzed. The messenger RNA levels for MHC alpha and SERCA2 were markedly down-regulated, MHC beta messenger RNA was up-regulated. Although T3 levels were normal in these animals, this pattern of cardiac gene expression mimics a hypothyroid phenotype. Cardiac muscle contraction was significantly prolonged in papillary muscles from transgenic mice. The electrocardiogram of transgenic mice showed a substantial prolongation of the QRS interval. Changes in cardiac gene expression, cardiac muscle contractility, and electrocardiogram are compatible with a hypothyroid cardiac phenotype despite normal T3 levels, indicating a dominant negative effect of the T3Rbeta mutant.

Heat shock proteins and protection against ischemic injury

Heat shock proteins present a complex family of proteins exerting chaperone-like activities that are classified according to their molecular weight. We especially explored protective functions of inducible heat shock protein 70, the mitochondrial heat shock protein 60 and 10, and the small heat shock proteins HSP27 and alphaB-crystallin against ischemic, reoxygenation-mediated injury using transgenic animals and hearts under in vivo conditions and in isolated cardiac myocyte-derived cells using adenoviral vectors. We noted with great interest that differential protective effects are exerted by specific hsps. For example, alpha-B-crystallin and constitutive hsp70 markedly protect microtubular structure in cardiac myocytes from ischemia-induced injury. Inducible hsp70, hsp60 and hsp10 when coexpressed, and hsp27 and alphaB-crystallin have an overall protective effect against ischemic injury as determined by the release of enzymes like creatine kinase and LDH. We did not note inflammatory or immune responses elicited by the expression of hsps in transgenic animals and cardiac myocytes. The specific cell types in which hsps are expressed may contribute to the protective effect of hsps versus their inflammatory and immunogenic effects when expressed in other cell types.

Thermodynamic limitation for Ca2+ handling contributes to decreased contractile reserve in rat hearts

The free energy release from ATP hydrolysis (|DeltaG approximately p|) is decreased by inhibiting the creatine kinase (CK) reaction, which may limit the thermodynamic driving force for the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ pumps and thereby cause a decrease in contractile reserve. To determine whether a decrease in |DeltaG approximately p| results in decreased contractile reserve by impairing Ca2+ handling, we measured left ventricular pressure and cytosolic Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]c; by indo 1 fluorescence) in isolated perfused rat hearts, with >95% inhibition of CK with 90 micromol iodoacetamide. Iodoacetamide did not directly alter SR Ca2+-ATPase activity, baseline left ventricular developed pressure, or baseline [Ca2+]c. When perfusate Ca2+ concentration was increased from 1.2 to 3.3 mM, LV developed pressure increased from 67 +/- 6 to 119 +/- 8 mmHg in control hearts (P < 0.05) but did not significantly increase in CK-inhibited hearts. Similarly, the amplitude of the [Ca2+]c transient increased from 548 +/- 54 to 852 +/- 140 nM in control hearts (P < 0.05) but did not significantly increase in CK-inhibited hearts. We conclude that decreased |DeltaG approximately p| limits intracellular Ca2+ handling and thereby limits contractile reserve.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum function in murine ventricular myocytes overexpressing SR CaATPase

To examine the effects of the overexpression of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) CaATPase on function of the SR and Ca2+ homeostasis, we measured [Ca2+]i transients (fluo-3), and L-type Ca2+ currents (ICa.L), Na/Ca exchanger currents (INa/Ca), and SR Ca2+ content with voltage clamp in ventricular myocytes isolated from wild type (WT) mice and transgenic (SRTG) mice. The amplitude of [Ca2+]i transients was insignificantly increased in SRTG myocytes, while the diastolic [Ca2+]i tended to be lower. The initial and terminal declines of [Ca2+]i transients were significantly accelerated in SRTG myocytes, implying a functional upregulation of the SR CaATPase. We examined the functional contribution of only the SR CaATPase to the initial and the terminal phase of the decline of [Ca2+]i, by abruptly inhibiting Na/Ca exchange with a rapid switcher device. The rate of [Ca2+] decline mediated by the SR CaATPase was increased by 40% in SRTG compared with WT myocytes. The function of the L-type Ca2+ channel was unchanged in SRTG myocytes, while INa/Ca density was slightly (10%) decreased. Measured SR Ca2+ content was significantly increased by 29% in SRTG myocytes. Thus, overexpression of SR CaATPase markedly accelerates the decline of [Ca2+]i transients, and induces in increase in SR Ca2+ content, with some downregulation of the Na/Ca exchanger.

Specific heat shock proteins protect microtubules during simulated ischemia in cardiac myocytes

The protective effects of heat shock proteins (HSPs) during myocardial ischemia are now well documented, but little is known about the mechanisms of protection and the specificity of different HSPs. Because cytoskeletal injury plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of irreversible ischemic damage, we tested whether overexpression of specific HSPs protects the integrity of microtubules during simulated ischemia in rat neonatal cardiac myocytes. Overexpression of specific HSPs was achieved by adenovirus-mediated transgene expression. Damage was assessed by comparing control cells to cells that were subjected to a simulated ischemia protocol. Microtubular integrity was measured by indirect immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, and image analysis. Within 14 h of simulated ischemia, microtubular integrity decreased significantly in uninfected myocytes (from 24.6 +/- 1.2 to 13.2 +/- 0.4) and in myocytes infected with a control virus that expressed no transgene (from 25.9 +/- 1.8 to 13.1 +/- 1.4). Microtubular integrity after ischemia was significantly better preserved in cells overexpressing constitutive Hsp70 (21.7 +/- 1.6) or alphaB-crystallin (18.0 +/- 2.7) but not in cells overexpressing inducible Hsp70 (11.5 +/- 0.8) or Hsp27 (14.0 +/- 2.2). We conclude that specific HSPs protect the microtubules during simulated cardiac ischemia.

Influences of increased expression of the Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum by a transgenic approach on cardiac contractility

Congestive heart failure is a significant clinical problem and leads to abnormalities in Ca2+ transients and to decreases in the level of the Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum according to reports to some investigators. The Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2) contributes in an important manner to diastolic Ca2+ lowering and relaxation of the heart. To determine the contractile alterations resulting from increased SERCA2 expression, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing a rat SERCA2 transgene. In these mice, SERCA2 mRNA was increased 2.6-fold, the relative synthesis rate of SERCA2 protein 1.8-fold, and SERCA2 protein levels 1.2-fold. Functional analysis of Ca2+ handling and contractile parameters in isolated cardiac myocytes indicated that the intracellular Ca2+ decline and myocyte relengthening were each accelerated by 22-23%. In addition, studies in isolated papillary muscles showed that the time to half-maximal post-rest potentiation was significantly shorter, hinting at an increased Ca2+ loading of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Furthermore, in vivo cardiac functional studies demonstrated a significant accelerated contraction and relaxation in SERCA2 transgenic mice. We also cloned a SERCA2 transgene and mutants of the phospholamban gene into E1 deleted replication-deficient human adenovirus 5 viral vectors and infected cardiac myocytes. In the cardiac myocytes, endogenous SERCA2 levels were decreased by PMA treatment. Infection of such myocytes with a SERCA2 expressing adenovirus could reconstitute the Ca2+ transient, and augmented oxalate facilitated SERCA2 Ca2+ uptake. In addition, phospholamban mutants with changes of basic to acidic amino acids in the cytoplasmic domain increased SERCA2 activity by 30-35%. These findings, therefore, suggest that increased SERCA2 activity can be achieved by increasing SERCA2 levels or by expressing phospholamban mutants. Increased SERCA2 activity can lead to significant enhancements of Ca2+ transients and myocardial contractility.

The Raf-MEK-ERK cascade represents a common pathway for alteration of intracellular calcium by Ras and protein kinase C in cardiac myocytes

Ras and protein kinase C (PKC), which regulate the Raf-MEK-ERK cascade, may participate in the development of cardiac hypertrophy, a condition characterized by diminished and prolonged contractile calcium transients. To directly examine the influence of this pathway on intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i), cardiac myocytes were cotransfected with effectors of this pathway and with green fluorescent protein, which allowed the living transfected myocytes to be identified and examined for [Ca2+]i via indo-1. Transfection with constitutively active Ras (Ha-RasV12) increased cell size, decreased expression of the myofibrils and the calcium-regulatory enzyme SERCA2, and reduced the magnitude and prolonged the decay phase of the contractile [Ca2+]i transients. Similar effects on [Ca2+]i were obtained with Ha-RasV12S35, a Ras mutant that selectively couples to Raf, and with constitutively active Raf. In contrast, Ha-RasV12C40, a Ras mutant that activates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway, had a lesser effect. The PKC-activating phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, also prolonged the contractile [Ca2+]i transients. Cotransfection with dnMEK inhibited the effects of Ha-RasV12, Raf, and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate on [Ca2+]i. The effects of Ha-RasV12 and Raf on [Ca2+]i were also counteracted by SERCA2 overexpression. Both Ras and PKC may thus regulate cardiac [Ca2+]i via the Raf-MEK-ERK cascade, and this pathway may represent a critical determinant of cardiac physiological function.

Constitutive and inducible hsp70s are involved in oxidative resistance evoked by heat shock or ethanol

Improved cardiac post-ischemic recovery after whole-body hyperthermia is correlated with an increased expression of the heat shock proteins (hsps). The inducible hsp70 (hsp70i) has a known cardioprotective effect against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Here, we studied whether other hsps are also involved in cardioprotection. Using rat heart-derived H9c2 myocytes, we observed that preheating at 43 degreesC for 20 min conferred resistance to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The resistance to mild H2O2 toxicity (3-5 micro mol/10(7) cells) appeared early and persisted, whereas the resistance to moderate H2O2 toxicity (6-9 micro mol/10(7) cells) was detectable only at 20-44 h post heat shock. No resistance was observed at higher doses of hydrogen peroxide (10-12 micro mol/10(7) cells), indicating that severe toxicity exceeds the capacity of the induced protective mechanism. Coincidentally, this thermal regimen elicited a rapid and prolonged increase in the cellular level of hsp70i, and a delayed and transient induction of the constitutive hsp70 (hsp70c). Nuclear translocations of hsp70i and hsp70c also occurred upon heat stimulation. A homogeneous distribution of the accumulated hsp70i and hsp70c throughout the nuclei and cytoplasm paralleled the development of heat-induced resistance to moderate H2O2 challenge. Application of another hsp inducer, ethyl alcohol, evoked a similar pattern of H2O2 resistance, and hsp induction and distribution. Our results suggest that induction and subcellular distribution of hsp70s contribute importantly to cellular antioxidant defenses, and that a co-operation between hsp70i and hsp70c may improve cardiac preservation during oxidative insult.

Protection against myocardial dysfunction after a brief ischemic period in transgenic mice expressing inducible heat shock protein 70

Brief ischemic periods lead to myocardial dysfunction without myocardial infarction. It has been shown that expression of inducible HSP70 in hearts of transgenic mice leads to decreased infarct size, but it remains unclear if HSP70 can also protect against myocardial dysfunction after brief ischemia. To investigate this question, we developed a mouse model in which regional myocardial function can be measured before and after a temporary ischemic event in vivo. In addition, myocardial function was determined after brief episodes of global ischemia in an isolated Langendorff heart. HSP70-positive mice and transgene negative littermates underwent 8 min of regional myocardial ischemia created by occlusion of the left descending coronary artery, followed by 60 min of reperfusion. This procedure did not result in a myocardial infarction. Regional epicardial strain was used as a sensitive indicator for changes in myocardial function after cardiac ischemia. Maximum principal strain was significantly greater in HSP70-positive mice with 88+/-6% of preischemic values vs. 58+/-6% in transgene-negative mice (P < 0.05). Similarly, in isolated Langendorff perfused hearts of HSP70-positive and transgene-negative littermates exposed to 10 min of global ischemia and 90 min of reperfusion, HSP70 transgenic hearts showed a better-preserved ventricular peak systolic pressure. Thus, we conclude that expression of HSP70 protects against postischemic myocardial dysfunction as shown by better preserved myocardial function.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase overexpression by adenovirus mediated gene transfer and in transgenic mice

The sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA2a) is a major determinant of cardiac relaxation. It has been demonstrated that the steady state levels of the mRNA coding for this pump are reduced in human heart failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy. Although results regarding the protein level are controversial, most functional studies indicate decreased SERCA2a activity in heart failure. The extent to which a potential decrease in the calcium sequestering function of this protein could contribute to the contractile dysfunction in heart failure, and whether a reconstitution of SERCA2a could alleviate heart failure, are yet unknown. To further investigate these questions two methodological approaches were chosen. Adenovirus mediated gene transfer provides an approach to study functional consequences of SERCA2a overexpression in cardiac myocytes in vitro [1], and a transgenic mouse model allows the effects of cardiac overexpression of SERCA2a to be examined in vivo [2].

Small heat shock proteins and protection against ischemic injury in cardiac myocytes

BACKGROUND

Overexpression of the inducible hsp70 protects against ischemic cardiac damage. However, it is unclear whether the small heat shock proteins hsp27 and alphaB-crystallin protect against ischemic injury.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Our aim was to examine whether the overexpression of hsp27 and alphaB-crystallin in neonatal and adult rat cardiomyocytes would protect against ischemic injury. Recombinant adenovirus expressing hsp27 or alphaB-crystallin under the control of the cytomegalovirus promoter was used to infect cardiac myocytes at high efficiency as assessed by immunostaining. Overexpression was confirmed by Western blot analysis. Cardiomyocytes were subjected to simulated ischemic stress, and survival was estimated through assessment of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine phosphokinase release. The hsp27 overexpression decreased lactate dehydrogenase release by 45+/-7.5% in adult cardiomyocytes but had no effect in the neonatal cells. In contrast, alphaB-crystallin overexpression was associated with a decrease in cytosolic enzyme release in both adult (29+/-6.6%) and neonatal (32+/-5.4%) cardiomyocytes. Decreased endogenous hsp25 with an antisense adenovirus produced a 29+/-9.9% increase in damage with simulated ischemia. Overexpression of the inducible hsp70 in adult cardiomyocytes was associated with a 34+/-4.6% decrease in lactate dehydrogenase release and is in line with our previous results in neonatal cardiomyocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased expression of hsp27 and alphaB-crystallin through an adenovirus vector system protects against ischemic injury in adult cardiomyocytes. Likewise, the overexpression of alphaB-crystallin protects against ischemic damage in neonatal cardiomyocytes. Decreasing the high levels of endogenous hsp25 present in neonatal cardiomyocytes renders them more susceptible to damage caused by simulated ischemia.

Overexpression of the rat sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase gene in the heart of transgenic mice accelerates calcium transients and cardiac relaxation

The Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2) plays a dominant role in lowering cytoplasmic calcium levels during cardiac relaxation and reduction of its activity has been linked to delayed diastolic relaxation in hypothyroid and failing hearts. To determine the contractile alterations resulting from increased SERCA2 expression, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing a rat SERCA2 transgene. Characterization of a heterozygous transgenic mouse line (CJ5) showed that the amount of SERCA2 mRNA and protein increased 2. 6-fold and 1.2-fold, respectively, relative to control mice. Determination of the relative synthesis rate of SERCA2 protein showed an 82% increase. The mRNA levels of some of the other genes involved in calcium handling, such as the ryanodine receptor and calsequestrin, remained unchanged, but the mRNA levels of phospholamban and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger increased 1.4-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively. The increase in phospholamban or Na+/Ca2+ exchanger mRNAs did not, however, result in changes in protein levels. Functional analysis of calcium handling and contractile parameters in isolated cardiac myocytes indicated that the intracellular calcium decline (t1/2) and myocyte relengthening (t1/2) were accelerated by 23 and 22%, respectively. In addition, the rate of myocyte shortening was also significantly faster. In isolated papillary muscle from SERCA2 transgenic mice, the time to half maximum postrest potentiation was significantly shorter than in negative littermates. Furthermore, cardiac function measured in vivo, demonstrated significantly accelerated contraction and relaxation in SERCA2 transgenic mice that were further augmented in both groups with isoproterenol administration. Similar results were obtained for the contractile performance of myocytes isolated from a separate line (CJ2) of homozygous SERCA2 transgenic mice. Our findings suggest, for the first time, that increased SERCA2 expression is feasible in vivo and results in enhanced calcium transients, myocardial contractility, and relaxation that may have further therapeutic implications.

Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer reconstitutes depressed sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase levels and shortens prolonged cardiac myocyte Ca2+ transients

BACKGROUND

Decreased expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-ATPase of the cardiac myocyte (SERCA2) and abnormal Ca2+ regulation have been independently linked to human heart failure. This study was designed to determine whether expression of a SERCA2 transgene could reconstitute depressed cardiac myocyte SERCA2 levels, augment SR Ca2+ uptake, and shorten prolonged excitation-contraction (EC)-associated Ca2+ transients in neonatal rat cardiac myocytes (NM).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Cultured NM were treated with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA), a compound that decreases endogenous SERCA2 expression and results in prolongation of EC-associated Ca2+ transients. PMA-treated NM had a 75% reduction in SERCA2 mRNA and a 40% reduction in SERCA2 protein levels. SERCA2 adenovirus infection increased SERCA2 mRNA expression to 2.5 times control and reconstituted SERCA2 protein levels in PMA-treated cells. This reconstitution was associated with a 32.4% reduction in the time for decline of the Indo-1 Ca2+ transient to half-maximum levels (t(1/2) [Ca2+]i) (P<.05). A 34.5% augmentation of oxalate-facilitated SR Ca2+ uptake was also documented in SERCA2 adenovirus-infected cells (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Adenovirus-mediated expression of a SERCA2 transgene can reconstitute depressed endogenous SERCA2 levels, shorten prolonged Ca2+ transients, and augment SR Ca2+ uptake. It is conceivable that such an approach might be used in vivo to normalize altered Ca2+ regulation in human heart failure.

Induction of heat shock proteins by tyrosine kinase inhibitors in rat cardiomyocytes and myogenic cells confers protection against simulated ischemia

Previous studies have shown that in rodent myogenic cells and in the hearts of transgenic mice in which heat shock protein expression is increased there is a marked tolerance to ischemic/reperfusion injury. Furthermore, a recent study has shown that the benzoquinoid ansamycin antibiotic and tyrosine kinase inhibitor, herbimycin A, is capable of inducing the expression of heat shock proteins in fibroblasts. Our intention, in the present study, was to investigate if exposure of rat cardiomyocytes and the myogenic cell line H9c2 to herbimycin A would induce these proteins and, thus, confer protection against ischemic stress. For this purpose, we exposed both rat neonatal cardiomyocytes and H9c2 cells to herbimycin A and another related benzoquinoid ansamycin antibiotic, geldanamycin. We found that cells exposed to these compounds overexpressed heat shock proteins and are also rendered more tolerant to simulated ischemia as measured by the release of cytoplasmic enzymes. In addition, we found that the mechanism of induction of heat shock proteins by these compounds is similar, if not identical, to that of a heat shock (42 degrees C, 60 min). These results suggest that these benzoquinoid ansamycin antibiotics, or closely related analogues, may offer a pharmacological means of increasing the level of heat shock proteins in cardiac tissue and thus protect the heart against ischemic/reperfusion injury.

Alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation inhibits 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine-induced expression of the rat heart sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ adenosine triphosphatase gene

The interactions between the beta-adrenergic system and thyroid hormone (T3) on cardiac function have been investigated in detail. In addition to beta-adrenoceptors, alpha 1-adrenergic receptors are present in the mammalian heart. The interactions between T3 and the alpha 1-adrenergic system remain, however, poorly understood. T3 stimulates the expression and transcription of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ adenosine triphosphatase (SERCA2) gene, a protein vital in the control of cardiac calcium transients and contractility. We show that in rat cardiac myocytes, the stimulatory effect of T3 on SERCA2 messenger RNA expression and gene transcription is inhibited by an alpha 1-adrenergic agonist. We demonstrate that direct activation of the alpha 1-adrenergic signaling pathway, using a mutant constitutively active G protein (Gq) similarly down-regulated the T3 effect on SERCA2 transcription. The combined effect of thyroid hormone receptor and retinoid X receptors on T3-stimulated SERCA2 gene transcription was also markedly attenuated by alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation. These results suggested that activation of the alpha 1-adrenergic signaling pathway has an inhibitor effect on T3-dependent SERCA2 gene transcription. As this inhibitory effect of alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation occurs when only one thyroid hormone response element (TRE) drives reporter expression, it is most likely mediated by an alteration of the nuclear factors binding to the TRE or by influencing the interaction of the TRE complex with the basal transcriptional machinery.

Transcription of the rat sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ adenosine triphosphatase gene is increased by 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine receptor isoform-specific interactions with the myocyte-specific enhancer factor-2a

Thyroid hormone (T3) increases the transcription of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) gene (SERCA 2) through three thyroid hormone response elements. The existence of repetitive cis elements with different configurations is likely to serve specific functions such as interactions with nuclear transcription factors. In addition, the presence of different T3 receptor isoforms (T3Rs) may contribute to another level of complexity in providing specificity for T3 action. In this study, we investigated T3R alpha 1-vs. T3R beta 1-specific interactions with the myocyte enhancer-specific factor-2 (MEF-2) on the expression of the SERCA 2 gene in transient transfection assays in embryonal heart-derived H9c2 cells. MEF-2a in combination with either T3R alpha 1 or T3R beta 1 isoforms resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in SERCA 2 transgene expression in the absence of T3. Addition of T3 did not induce any further increase in SERCA 2 expression when T3R alpha 1 and MEF-2a expression vectors were cotransfected. In contrast, in the presence of T3R beta 1 and MEF-2, the addition of T3 increased chlorampenicol acetyltransferase activity by an additional 2.2-fold to a total 5.5-fold increase. The interaction between MEF-2a and T3R is transcription factor specific because another factor that binds to MEF-2 consensus sites (heart factor 1b) was not able to interact with T3R. In addition, MEF-2a failed to interact with other nuclear factors (cAMP response element-binding protein and Egr-1) that stimulate SERCA 2 gene transcription. In addition, we found that a single homologous thyroid hormone response element is not able to mediate the interactions between MEF-2a and T3Rs to increase SERCA 2 gene transcription. Our findings point to T3R isoform-specific interactions with a cell type-specific transcription factor (MEF-2) in the regulation of SERCA 2 gene expression.

Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of a heat shock protein 70 (hsp 70i) protects against simulated ischemia

We have recently shown that the overexpression of a heat shock protein 70 (hsp 70) in a rat myogenic cell line confers protection against simulated ischemia. We also developed and demonstrated that overexpression of this protein, in the hearts of transgenic mice, protects against ischemia/reperfusion injury. We have now inserted the hsp70 gene in an adenoviral vector and show that we are able to transfer and achieve overexpression of this protein in neonatal cardiomyocytes and in the rat myogenic cell line H9c2. We find that cells infected with the adenoviral-hsp70i construct are rendered tolerant to simulated ischemia as compared to cells infected with a control recombinant adenoviral construct. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the feasibility of using adenoviral vectors to overexpress the hsp70 in myogenic cells, specially in cardiomyocytes, and the efficiency of this approach for providing protection against myocardial ischemia.

Phorbol myristate acetate-induced hypertrophy of neonatal rat cardiac myocytes is associated with decreased sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2) gene expression and calcium reuptake

The decreased expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase associated with cardiac hypertrophy was investigated in cultured neonatal rat cardiac myocytes. Northern blot analysis indicated a significant 55-60% decrease in Ca(2+)-ATPase mRNA levels and after 12 and 24 h of treatment with the phorbol ester phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). Myocytes treated with the phorbol ester for 80 h showed a significant 34% decrease (relative to vehicle-treated control cells) in the levels of Ca(2+)-ATPase protein, and a significant 38% increase in the levels of alpha-sarcomeric actin, as assessed by Western blot analysis using specific antibodies. Immunocytochemistry of myocytes treated for 72 h with the phorbol ester revealed a hypertrophied cell morphology, and showed a marked decrease in Ca(2+)-ATPase staining intensity. Contractile calcium transients were evaluated through the use of indo-1. It was found that the t1/2 for the decline of calcium transient was significantly prolonged by PMA treatment (0.51 +/- 0.15) when compared to controls (0.38 +/- 0.17, P < 0.001). Treatment of myocytes with endothelin-1 also led to a 35% decrease in sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase mRNA levels. It is concluded that phorbol ester treatment of neonatal rat cardiac myocytes induces similar changes in Ca(2+)-ATPase mRNA levels. It is concluded that phorbol ester treatment of neonatal rat cardiac myocytes induces similar changes in Ca(2+)-ATPase gene expression as observed in vivo in the hypertrophied and failing heart. The observed prolongation in t1/2 for [Ca2+]i decline might be due to the observed depressed levels for sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase in PMA treated cells.

Overexpression of heat shock protein 72 in transgenic mice decreases infarct size in vivo

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that induction of heat shock protein (HSP) 72 by whole-body hyperthermia reduces infarct size in an in vivo model of ischemia and reperfusion. Furthermore, hearts obtained from transgenic mice that overexpress HSP72 demonstrate improved functional recovery and decreased infarct size in vitro after global ischemia and reperfusion.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To test the hypothesis that overexpression of HSP72 in transgenic mice reduces infarct size in vivo, transgenic mice that were heterozygous for a rat HSP70i gene ([+]HSP72) and transgene-negative littermate controls ([-]HSP72) were subjected to 30 minutes of left coronary artery occlusion followed by 120 minutes of reperfusion. Core body temperature was monitored with a rectal thermometer and maintained between 36.5 degrees C and 37.0 degrees C with a heating pad. Infarct size, determined by dual staining with triphenyltetrazolium chloride and phthalocyanine blue dye, was smaller in [+]HSP72 mice compared with [-]HSP72 mice (12.7 +/- 2.8% [n = 7] versus 33.4 +/- 4.5% [n = 6], infarct size/risk area, respectively; P < .05; mean +/- SEM).

CONCLUSIONS

Overexpression of HSP72 reduces infarct size in this in vivo transgenic mouse model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion.

Intracoronary gene transfer of fibroblast growth factor-5 increases blood flow and contractile function in an ischemic region of the heart

Increased coronary blood vessel development could potentially benefit patients with ischemic heart disease. In a model of stress-induced myocardial ischemia, intracoronary injection of a recombinant adenovirus expressing human fibroblast growth factor-5 (FGF-5) resulted in messenger RNA and protein expression of the transferred gene. Two weeks after gene transfer, regional abnormalities in stress-induced function and blood flow were improved, effects that persisted for 12 weeks. Improved blood flow and function were associated with evidence of angiogenesis. This report documents, for the first time, successful amelioration of abnormalities in myocardial blood flow and function following in vivo gene transfer.

Regulation of expression of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum proteins under pathophysiological conditions

Congestive heart failure presents a significant medical problem and accumulating evidence indicates that slow relaxation during diastole maybe at least in part be medlated by decreased expression of the gene coding for the Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). In order to determine if increased expression of the SR Ca2+ ATPase gene leads to alterations in calcium transients and in contractile behavior we constructed transgenic mice overexpressing the SERCA2 gene. Measuring dP/dt(max) and dpPdt(min) with a 2 French Milar catheter we found a significant Increase in systolic contraction and diastolic relaxation in transgene positive versus transgene negative mice. In addition we constructed adenoviruses overexpressing the gene coding for the Ca2+ ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Infacting cardiac myocytes with the adenovirus expressing this transgene led to an accelerated calcium transient. Determining cell shortening and relengthening with a edge detection method indicated that increased expression of the SERCA2 transgene mediated by adenovirus Infection accelerated contractile parameters. In summary increased expression of the SERCA2 transgene leads to an enhancement of cardiac contrectile parameters under in vivo conditions in transgenic mice and in myocytes in cell culture using an adenovirus based approach to increase expression of the SERCAX gene.

Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of human transforming growth factor-beta 1 in rat cardiac fibroblasts, myocytes and smooth muscle cells

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) is known to regulate cardiac cell function and its overexpression in the heart is thought to contribute to the development of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. We wished to develop a high efficiency gene transfer method that could be used both in vitro and in vivo and result in the overexpression of TGF-beta 1. For this purpose, we constructed a replication-deficient human adenovirus 5 vector encoding for human TGF-beta 1 and used for control purposes an adenovirus lacZ vector. The adenovirus 5 construct was capable of infecting neonatal rat cardiac myocytes, fibroblasts and VSMCs. Of the three cell types, cardiac myocytes appear more susceptible to infection by the adenovirus 5 construct as assessed through beta-galactosidase staining. Infection of cardiac fibroblasts, myocytes and VSMCs with the hTGF-beta 1 adenovirus leads to the expression of hTGF-beta 1 mRNA and enhanced levels of bioactive and total TGF-beta 1 protein. Infection with hTGF-beta 1 adenovirus also results in enhanced levels of collagen type III gene expression in VSMCs and fibroblasts whereas in cardiac myocytes it leads to increased levels for sarcomeric and beta-actin. Thus, this adenoviral vector might be used for the exploration of in vivo effects of altered levels of cardiac TGF-beta 1.

Angiotensin II stimulates the autocrine production of transforming growth factor-beta 1 in adult rat cardiac fibroblasts

Angiotensin II (Ang II) has been implicated in the development of cardiac hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. While recent in vivo and in vitro studies performed in cultured cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts support this role for Ang II, the mechanisms of Ang II action at the cellular level remain unclear. In the present study, we postulated that Ang II action in adult cardiac fibroblasts may stimulate the autocrine production and release of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1), a known regulator of cardiac fibroblast and myocyte function. We examined the ability of Ang II to regulate the gene expression, biological activity, and protein production of TGF-beta 1 in cultured adult rat cardiac fibroblasts. Treatment of fibroblast cultures with Ang II (10(-9) M) induced a two-fold increase in TGF-beta 1 mRNA levels within 4 h that was sustained through 24 h (P < 0.01). TGF-beta 1-like activity in Ang II-treated cultures was significantly increased compared with control as measured by bioassay (P < 0.001). Specificity for TGF-beta 1-like activity was confirmed through its neutralization with a TGF-beta 1 specific antibody (100 micrograms/ml). Total concentration of TGF-beta 1 (latent plus active forms) in conditioned media from Ang II-treated cardiac fibroblasts was also found to be greater than control (P < 0.01). These findings suggest that the effects of Ang II in the adult myocardium may be mediated in part by autocrine/paracrine mechanisms, including the production and release of TGF-beta 1 by cardiac fibroblasts.

Trophic effects of angiotensin II on neonatal rat cardiac myocytes are mediated by cardiac fibroblasts

Cultured neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts (NF) and myocytes (NM) were used to examine the distribution of angiotensin II (ANG II) receptors and the potential role of NF in mediating the trophic response to ANG II in the heart. In NM preparations cultured for 2-5 days, specific binding to 125I-ANG II was < 10% of the specific binding in cultured NF. Binding assays, immunocytochemistry, and autoradiography in NM cultured for > 5 days identified two populations of cells, one with fibroblast-like morphology and high density of ANG II receptors and another with low binding, comparable to NM cultures at day 5 or earlier. Conditioned medium (CM) from untreated NF increased cell surface area and net [3H]leucine (Leu) incorporation 1.4-fold in NM. CM from ANG II-treated NF enhanced [3H]Leu incorporation 2.2-fold in NM. This potentiating effect of ANG II was inhibited by losartan and was absent when ANG II was added directly to NM. In addition, studies using antibodies and bioassay for transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) suggested that TGF-beta 1 does not mediate the trophic effects of ANG II on NM. We conclude that ANG II receptors are localized predominantly on NF and that ANG II can indirectly stimulate hypertrophy of NM by stimulating NF to produce a transferrable factor(s). These data suggest that cardiac fibroblasts may play a critical role in mediating the hypertrophic response to ANG II in the rat heart.

Overexpression of the rat inducible 70-kD heat stress protein in a transgenic mouse increases the resistance of the heart to ischemic injury

Myocardial protection and changes in gene expression follow whole body heat stress. Circumstantial evidence suggests that an inducible 70-kD heat shock protein (hsp70i), increased markedly by whole body heat stress, contributes to the protection. Transgenic mouse lines were constructed with a cytomegalovirus enhancer and beta-actin promoter driving rat hsp70i expression in heterozygote animals. Unstressed, transgene positive mice expressed higher levels of myocardial hsp70i than transgene negative mice after whole body heat stress. This high level of expression occurred without apparent detrimental effect. The hearts harvested from transgene positive mice and transgene negative littermates were Langendorff perfused and subjected to 20 min of warm (37 degrees C) zero-flow ischemia and up to 120 min of reflow while contractile recovery and creatine kinase efflux were measured. Myocardial infarction was demarcated by triphenyltetrazolium. In transgene positive compared with transgene negative hearts, the zone of infarction was reduced by 40%, contractile function at 30 min of reflow was doubled, and efflux of creatine kinase was reduced by approximately 50%. Our findings suggest for the first time that increased myocardial hsp70i expression results in protection of the heart against ischemic injury and that the antiischemic properties of hsp70i have possible therapeutic relevance.

Myocardial remodeling in hypertensive Ren-2 transgenic rats

Rats harboring the mouse Ren-2 transgene develop hypertension despite low levels of plasma renin. We determined the extent of left ventricular remodeling present in Ren-2 rats at 16 weeks of age by measuring blood pressure, ratio of heart weight to body weight, left ventricular wall thickness, passive (diastolic) left ventricular compliance, and left ventricular collagen content using hydroxyproline and collagen area fraction. Changes in perivascular fibronectin and collagen type I and III were examined with immunohistochemistry. Blood pressure values at time of death were 244 +/- 15 mm Hg for Ren-2 rats (mean +/- SD, n = 5). Ratios of heart weight to body weight (grams per kilogram) for Ren-2 animals were 4.1 +/- 0.2 versus 3.1 +/- 0.1 for controls (n = 6, P < .001). Wall thickness values for control animals were 2.6 +/- 0.1 versus 4.1 +/- 0.4 mm for Ren-2 animals (P < .001). Left ventricular Ren-2 hydroxyproline measurements were significantly decreased (3.4 +/- 0.2 versus 4.7 +/- 0.9 mg/g dry wt for controls). Significant decreases of approximately 30% were also observed in collagen area fraction in Ren-2 rats. Immunohistochemical and picrosirius red staining indicated increased amounts of perivascular fibrosis in all Ren-2 animals (when compared with controls) with enhanced levels of perivascular fibronectin and type I and type III collagen proteins. Left ventricular compliance measurements indicated a decrease in left ventricular volume for all left ventricular pressures (P = .07).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)