Influence of Vesicoureteral Reflux and Urinary Tract Infection on Renal Growth in Children with Upper Urinary Tract Duplication

The growth of the renal parenchyma was examined in children with duplicated outflow systems, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), urinary tract infection (UTI) and no sign of obstruction. Ten patients with reflux occurring only in the caudal system (group A) and 4 patients with reflux both to the caudal and the apical system (group B) were studied shortly after their first UTI (study 1) and then 1.5 to 9 years later (study 2). The frequency of UTI was relatively high during the follow-up period. At urography, renal length and renal area were normal in group A in studies 1 and 2. Parenchymal thickness of the apical pole (APT/L) did not differ from normal values in any of the studies. Parenchymal thickness of the caudal pole (CPT/L) was significantly smaller than normal in both studies. There was also a significant decrease in CPT/L between study 1 and 2. UTI during the first year of life was associated with a greater reduction in CPT/L. The determination of renal length and renal area in children with a duplicated ureter, VUR and UTI, does not identify subjects at risk of developing renal growth retardation while serial determinations of parenchymal thickness appear to be an appropriate method.

Distribution of Renal Scars and Intrarenal Reflux in Children with a Past History of Urinary Tract Infection

The distribution of renal scars in children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and a past history of urinary tract infection was studied to see whether a correlation existed between renal scarring and intrarenal reflux. In 37 children with one or more scars in one or both kidneys, scarring was significantly more frequent in the polar areas than in the lateral area. In 7 children with intrarenal reflux (IRR), the distribution of IRR was almost identical with that of renal scarring. When children with marked VUR (grade IV-V) were analyzed separately, a uniform distribution of scars was found. It was concluded that fused papillae, which normally are most frequent in the polar area, are a prerequisite for the development of IRR/renal scars.

Study of protein and RNA in dendritic spines using multi-isotope imaging mass spectrometry (MIMS)

The classical view of neuronal protein synthesis is that proteins are made in the cell body and then transported to their functional sites in the dendrites and the dendritic spines. Indirect evidence, however, suggests that protein synthesis can directly occur in the distal dendrites, far from the cell body. We are developing protocols for dual labeling of RNA and proteins using 15N-uridine and 18O- or 13C-leucine pulse chase in cultured neurons to identify and localize both protein synthesis and fate of newly synthesized proteins. Pilot experiments show discrete localization of both RNA and newly synthesized proteins in dendrites, close to dendritic spines. We have for the first time directly imaged and measured the production of proteins at the subcellular level in the neuronal dendrites, close to the functional sites, the dendritic spines. This will open a powerful way to study neural growth and synapse plasticity in health and disease.

Functional differences between D(1) and D(5) revealed by high resolution imaging on live neurons

The interaction between the dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems governs normal behavior and is perturbed in many psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia. Hypofunction of the D1 family of receptors, to which the D(1) and D(5) subtypes belong, is a typical feature of schizophrenia. Here we have used confocal live cell imaging of neurons to examine the distinct roles of the D(1) and D(5) receptors in the intra-neuronal interaction with the glutamatergic system. Using fluorescently tagged D(1) or D(5) expressed in cultured striatal neurons, we show that both receptor subtypes are primarily transported via lateral diffusion in the dendritic tree. D(1) is to a much larger extent than D(5) expressed in spines. D(1) is primarily expressed in the head whereas D(5) is largely localized to the neck of the spine. Activation of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors slowed the diffusion rate and increased the number of D(1) positive spines, while no effect on D(5) diffusion or spine localization could be observed. The observed differences between D(1) and D(5) can be attributed to structural differences in the C-terminus and its capacity to interact with NMDA receptors and PSD-95. Identification of a unique role of D(1) for the intra-neuronal interaction between the dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems will have implications for the development of more specific treatments in many neuropsychiatric disorders.

Urinary excretion of prostaglandin F2 alpha and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha during volume expansion in patients with glomerulonephritis

Thirteen patients with active IgA glomerulonephritis (IgA GN), ten patients with a history of Henoch-Schönlein glomerulonephritis (HS GN) and nine healthy controls were studied during hydropenia (HP) and 3% volume expansion (VE) with isotonic saline. Clearance of inulin and para-aminohippurate, urinary excretion of Na, immunoreactive prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) were determined. The patients with a history of HS GN had normal blood pressure and renal function. As in the controls, the urinary excretion of PGF 2 alpha decreased and the excretion of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha increased during VE. In the patients with IgA GN the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was normal, markedly reduced and supernormal. Five patients had hypertension and an increased NA excretion in relation to the GFR during VE. As a group, the patients with IgA GN increased their urinary excretion of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha during VE, while the excretion of PGF2 alpha did not change. In relation to the GFR, the urinary excretion of PGF2 alpha and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was markedly increased in two patients with low GFR, which implies that these substances play a role in advanced renal disease. VE had little effect on PG excretion in these patients. In the hypertensive patients the urinary excretion of PGF2 alpha and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was the same as in those with normal blood pressure. PGs are therefore not likely to mediate the increased natriuretic response to VE in hypertension.

New roles for an old enzyme: Na,K-ATPase emerges as an interesting drug target

Na,K-ATPase (NKA) is well known for its role as a maintainer of electrolyte and fluid balance in cells, organs and whole body. Exciting new findings have revealed additional fundamental roles for NKA as a signal transducer and modulator of growth, apoptosis, cell adhesion and motility. The signal transduction function can be triggered by the binding of ouabain, the mammalian analogue of digitalis to NKA. The catalytic subunit of NKA exists in different forms and mutations in two of the forms that are expressed in brain can give rise to migraine, epilepsy and Parkinsonism-like symptoms. This review will present these new aspects of NKA and their clinical implications.

Lead induces increased water permeability in astrocytes expressing aquaporin 4

The water channel aquaporin 4 (AQP4) is abundantly expressed in astrocytes. There is now compelling evidence that AQP4 may contribute to an unfavorable course in brain edema. Acute lead intoxication is a condition that causes brain damage preceded by brain edema. Here we report that lead increases AQP4 water permeability (P(f)) in astrocytes. A rat astrocyte cell line that does not express aquaporin 4 was transiently transfected with aquaporin 4 tagged with green fluorescent protein (GFP). Using confocal laser scanning microscopy we measured water permeability in these cells and in AQP4-negative cells located on the same plate. AQP4-expressing astrocytes had a three-fold higher water permeability than astrocytes not expressing AQP4. Lead exposure induced a significant, 40%, increase in water permeability in astrocytes expressing AQP4, but had no effect on P(f) in astrocytes not expressing AQP4. The increase in water permeability persisted after lead washout, while treatment with a lead chelator, meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid, abolished the lead-induced increase in P(f). The effect of lead was attenuated in the presence of a calcium (Ca(2+))/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) inhibitor, but not in the presence of a protein kinase C inhibitor. In cells expressing AQP4 where the consensus site for CaMKII phosphorylation was mutated, lead failed to increase water permeability. Lead exposure also increased P(f) in rat astroglial cells in primary culture, which express endogenous AQP4. Lead had no effect on P(f) in astrocytes transfected with aquaporin 3. In situ hybridization studies on rat brain after oral lead intake for three days showed no change in distribution of AQP4 mRNA. It is suggested that lead-triggered stimulation of water transport in AQP4-expressing astrocytes may contribute to the pathology of acute lead intoxication.

Modulation of Na+,K+-ATPase activity is of importance for RVD

AIM

This study was performed to examine the role of Na+,K+-ATPase activity for the adaptive response to cell swelling induced by hypoosmoticity, i.e. the regulatory volume decrease (RVD).

METHODS

The studies were performed on COS-7 cells transfected with rat Na+,K+-ATPase. To study changes in cell volume, cells were loaded with the fluorescent dye calcein and the intensity of the dye, following exposure to a hypoosmotic medium, was recorded with confocal microscopy.

RESULTS

Ouabain-mediated inhibition of Na+,K+-ATPase resulted in a dose dependent decrease in the rate of RVD. Total 86Rb+ uptake as well as ouabain dependent 86Rb+ uptake, used as an index of Na+,K+-ATPase dependent K+ uptake, was significantly increased during the first 2 min following exposure to hypoosmoticity. Since protein kinase C (PKC) plays an important role in the modulation of RVD, a study was carried out on COS-7 cells expressing rat Na+,K+-ATPase, where Ser23 in the catalytic alpha1 subunit of rat Na+,K+-ATPase had been mutated to Ala (S23A), abolishing a known PKC phosphorylation site. Cells expressing S23A rat Na+,K+-ATPase exhibited a significantly lower rate of RVD and showed no increase in 86Rb+ uptake during RVD.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results suggest that a PKC-mediated transient increase in Na+,K+-ATPase activity plays an important role in RVD.

Regulation of brain aquaporins

Emerging evidence suggests that brain aquaporins (AQP) play important roles for the dynamic regulation of brain water homeostasis and for the regulation of cerebrospinal fluid production. This review deals with the short- and long-term regulation of AQP4 and AQP9, both expressed in astrocytes, and of AQP1, expressed in the choroid plexus. AQP1 and 4 have in other cell types been shown to be regulated by phosphorylation. Phosphorylation affects the gating of AQP4 and the trafficking and insertion into membrane of AQP1. Mercury inhibits the water permeability of AQP1 and AQP9, but not AQP4. The permeability of AQP4 is increased by lead. AQP4 is also regulated by protein-protein interaction. The assembly between AQP4 and syntrophin is required for the proper localization of AQP4 in the astrocyte plasma membrane that faces capillaries. There is evidence from studies on peripheral tissues that steroid hormones regulate the expression of AQP1, AQP4 and AQP9. There is also evidence that the expression of AQP1 can be regulated by ubiquitination, and that osmolality can regulate the expression of AQP1, AQP4 and AQP9. Further insight into the mechanisms by which brain AQPs are regulated will be of utmost clinical importance, since perturbed water flow via brain AQPs has been implicated in many neurological diseases and since, in brain edema, water flow via AQP4 may have a harmful effect.

Intracellular sodium modulates the state of protein kinase C phosphorylation of rat proximal tubule Na+,K+-ATPase

The natriuretic hormone dopamine and the antinatriuretic hormone noradrenaline, acting on alpha-adrenergic receptors, have been shown to bidirectionally modulate the activity of renal tubular Na+,K+-adenosine triphosphate (ATPase). Here we have examined whether intracellular sodium concentration influences the effects of these bidirectional forces on the state of phosphorylation of Na+,K+-ATPase. Proximal tubules dissected from rat kidney were incubated with dopamine or the alpha-adrenergic agonist, oxymetazoline, and transiently permeabilized in a medium where sodium concentration ranged between 5 and 70 mM. The variations of sodium concentration in the medium had a proportional effect on intracellular sodium. Dopamine and protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylate the catalytic subunit of rat Na+,K+-ATPase on the Ser23 residue. The level of PKC induced Na+,K+-ATPase phosphorylation was determined using an antibody that only recognizes Na+,K+-ATPase, which is not phosphorylated on its PKC site. Under basal conditions Na+,K+-ATPase was predominantly in its phosphorylated state. When intracellular sodium was increased, Na+,K+-ATPase was predominantly in its dephosphorylated state. Phosphorylation of Na+,K+-ATPase by dopamine was most pronounced when intracellular sodium was high, and dephosphorylation by oxymetazoline was most pronounced when intracellular sodium was low. The oxymetazoline effect was mimicked by the calcium ionophore A23187. An inhibitor of the calcium-dependent protein phosphatase, calcineurin, increased the state of Na+,K+-ATPase phosphorylation. The results imply that phosphorylation of renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity is modulated by the level of intracellular sodium and that this effect involves PKC and calcium signalling pathways. The findings may have implication for the regulation of salt excretion and sodium homeostasis.

Ouabain, a steroid hormone that signals with slow calcium oscillations

The plant-derived steroid, digoxin, a specific inhibitor of Na,K-ATPase, has been used for centuries in the treatment of heart disease. Recent studies demonstrate the presence of a digoxin analog, ouabain, in mammalian tissue, but its biological role has not been elucidated. Here, we show in renal epithelial cells that ouabain, in doses causing only partial Na,K-ATPase inhibition, acts as a biological inducer of regular, low-frequency intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) oscillations that elicit activation of the transcription factor, NF-kappa B. Partial inhibition of Na,K-ATPase using low extracellular K(+) and depolarization of cells did not have these effects. Incubation of cells in Ca(2+)-free media, inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels, inositol triphosphate receptor antagonism, and redistribution of actin to a thick layer adjacent to the plasma membrane abolished [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations, indicating that they were caused by a concerted action of inositol triphosphate receptors and capacitative calcium entry via plasma membrane channels. Blockade of ouabain-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations prevented activation of NF-kappa B. The results demonstrate a new mechanism for steroid signaling via plasma membrane receptors and underline a novel role for the steroid hormone, ouabain, as a physiological inducer of [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations involved in transcriptional regulation in mammalian cells.

Increased blood pressure and loss of anp-induced natriuresis in mice lacking DARPP-32 gene

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is an important regulator of sodium metabolism and indirectly of blood pressure. Evidence has accumulated that ANP regulates sodium metabolism through a cascade of steps involving an increase in the level of cGMP, activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG), and inhibition of renal tubular Na+, K+-ATPase activity. One of the major substrates for PKG is DARPP-32. In the present study we observed that ANP does not induce natriuresis in mice that lack DARPP-32. In contrast, there was a 4-fold increase in urinary sodium excretion following ANP administration to wild type mice. ANP as well as Zaprinast, a selective inhibitor of cGMP phosophodiesterase, inhibited renal Na+, K+-ATPase activity in wild type mice but had no such effect in mice lacking DARPP-32. Mean arterial blood pressure, measured in conscious animals, was significantly increased in DARPP-32 deficient mice as compared to wild type mice. The results confirm that DARPP-32 acts as a third messenger in the ANP signaling pathway in renal tissue and suggest an important role of DARPP-32 in the maintenance of normal blood pressure.

Regulation of sodium/potassium ATPase activity: impact on salt balance and vascular contractility

Na+,K+-ATPase distributes ions between the intracellular and extracellular space and is responsible for total-body sodium homeostasis. The activity of this ion pump is regulated by catecholamines and peptide hormones; by the ligand of Na+,K+-ATPase, ouabain; and by direct interaction with cytoskeleton proteins. This review summarizes recent advances in the field of short-term regulation of Na+,K+-ATPase and the implications of these advances for the regulation of blood pressure. Renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity is bidirectionally regulated by natriuretic and antinatriuretic hormones, and a shift in the balance between these forces may lead to salt retention and hypertension. Dopamine plays a key role in this interactive regulation. By inhibiting vascular Na+,K+-ATPase activity, an excess of circulating ouabain may increase calcium concentration in vascular cells and lead to increased vascular contractility. Finally, mutations in cytoskeleton proteins may stimulate renal Na+,K+-ATPase activity by way of protein/protein interaction and lead to salt retention and hypertension. Abnormalities in the systems regulating Na+,K+-ATPase should be explored further in the search for the multiple causes of essential hypertension.

Dopamine-induced translocation of protein kinase C isoforms visualized in renal epithelial cells

Short-term regulation of sodium metabolism is dependent on the modulation of the activity of sodium transporters by first and second messengers. In understanding diseases associated with sodium retention, it is necessary to identify the coupling between these messengers. We have examined whether dopamine, an important first messenger in tubular cells, activates and translocates various protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms. We used a proximal tubular-like cell line, LLCPK-1 cells, in which dopamine was found to inhibit Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in a PKC-dependent manner. Translocation of PKC isoforms was studied with both subcellular fractionation and confocal microscopy. Both techniques revealed a dopamine-induced translocation from cytosol to plasma membrane of PKC-alpha and -epsilon, but not of PKC-delta, -gamma, and -zeta. The process of subcellular fractionation resulted in partial translocation of PKC-epsilon. This artifact was eliminated in confocal studies. Confocal imaging permitted detection of translocation within 20 s. Translocation was abolished by a phospholipase C inhibitor and by an antagonist against the dopamine 1 subtype (D(1)) but not the 2 subtype of receptor (D(2)). In conclusion, this study visualizes in renal epithelial cells a very rapid activation of the PKC-alpha and -epsilon isoforms by the D(1) receptor subtype.

Identification of a new form of AQP4 mRNA that is developmentally expressed in mouse brain

The water channel aquaporin 4 (AQP4) is abundantly expressed in the brain, and also in lung and kidney. Previous studies have suggested that there are at least two AQP4 mRNA. The two mRNA encode for two AQP4 proteins that differ with regard to the length of the N-terminal: AQP4.M1 and AQP4.M23. Here we report, by use of reverse transcriptase PCR and comparison of genomic and cDNA structures, the presence of a third form of mouse AQP4 mRNA. The upstream sequence of this form of mRNA originates from an additional exon, interspaced between exon 0 and exon 1, and an alternatively spliced form of exon 1. Analysis of nucleotide sequence suggests that this new form of AQP4 mRNA also encodes for the AQP4.M23 protein. The two forms of AQP4 mRNA that presumably both encode for M23 have a tissue- and age-specific expression. The new AQP4 mRNA was predominantly expressed in brain. The expression was approximately twofold higher in the adult brain than in the infant brain. In contrast, the expression levels of the new mRNA were low in both infant and adult lung and kidney. The previously described mRNA encoding for AQP4.M23 was predominantly expressed in lung and kidney. In lung, the expression of this form was higher in infancy than in adulthood. In conclusion, we have identified a new form of AQP4 mRNA that is predominantly expressed in the brain and that is developmentally regulated.

Combined antioxidant and COMT inhibitor treatment reverses renal abnormalities in diabetic rats

The development and progression of diabetic nephropathy is dependent on glucose homeostasis and many other contributing factors. In the present study, we examined the effect of nitecapone, an inhibitor of the dopamine-metabolizing enzyme catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) and a potent antioxidant, on functional and cellular determinants of renal function in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Administration of nitecapone to diabetic rats normalized urinary sodium excretion in a manner consistent with the dopamine-dependent inhibition of proximal tubule Na,K-ATPase activity. Hyperfiltration, focal glomerulosclerosis, and albuminuria were also reversed by nitecapone, but in a manner that is more readily attributed to the antioxidant potential of the agent. A pattern of elevated oxidative stress, measured as CuZn superoxide dismutase gene expression and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance content, was noted in diabetic rats, and both parameters were normalized by nitecapone treatment. In diabetic rats, activation of glomerular protein kinase C (PKC) was confirmed by isoform-specific translocation and Ser23 phosphorylation of the PKC substrate Na,K-ATPase. PKC-dependent changes in Na,K-ATPase phosphorylation were associated with decreased glomerular Na,K-ATPase activity. Nitecapone-treated diabetic rats were protected from these intracellular modifications. The combined results suggest that the COMT-inhibitory and antioxidant properties of nitecapone provide a protective therapy against the development of diabetic nephropathy.

Alpha-haemolysin of uropathogenic E. coli induces Ca2+ oscillations in renal epithelial cells

Pyelonephritis is one of the most common febrile diseases in children. If not treated appropriately, it causes irreversible renal damage and accounts for a large proportion of end stage renal failures. Renal scarring can occur in the absence of inflammatory cells, indicating that bacteria may have a direct signalling effect on renal cells. Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) oscillations can protect cells from the cytotoxic effects of prolonged increases in intracellular calcium. However, no pathophysiologically relevant protein that induces such oscillations has been identified. Here we show that infection by uropathogenic Escherichia coli induces a constant, low-frequency oscillatory [Ca2+]i response in target primary rat renal epithelial cells induced by the secreted RTX (repeats-in-toxin) toxin alpha-haemolysin. The response depends on calcium influx through L-type calcium channels as well as from internal stores gated by inositol triphosphate. Internal calcium oscillations induced by alpha-haemolysin in a renal epithelial cell line stimulated production of cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8. Our findings indicate a novel role for alpha-haemolysin in pyelonephritis: as an inducer of an oscillating second messenger response in target cells, which fine-tunes gene expression during the inflammatory response.

Arachidonic acid metabolic pathways regulating activity of renal Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase are age dependent

Locally formed arachidonic acid (AA) metabolites are important as modulators of many aspects of renal tubular function, including regulation of the activity of tubular Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase. Here we examined the ontogeny of the AA metabolic pathways regulating proximal convoluted tubular (PCT) Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in infant and adult rats. Eicosatetraynoic acid, an inhibitor of all AA-metabolizing pathways, abolished this effect. AA inhibition of PCT Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase was blocked by the 12-lipoxygenase inhibitor baicalein in infant but not in adult rats and by the specific cytochrome P-450 fatty acid omega-hydroxylase inhibitor 17-octadecynoic acid in adult but not in infant rats. The lipoxygenase metabolite 12(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE) and the cytochrome P-450 metabolite 20-HETE both inhibited PCT Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in a protein kinase C-dependent manner, but the effect was significantly more pronounced in infant PCT. Lipoxygenase mRNA was only detected in infant cortex. Expression of renal isoforms of cytochrome P-450 mRNA was more prominent in adult cortex. In summary, the AA metabolic pathways that modulated the activity of rat renal proximal tubular Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase are age dependent.

Mechanisms by which intrarenal dopamine and ANP interact to regulate sodium metabolism

Maintenance of a normal blood pressure requires a precise and fine-tuned regulation of salt metabolism. This is accomplished by a bidirectional regulation of renal tubular sodium transporters by natriuretic and antinatriuretic hormones. Dopamine, produced in the renal proximal tubular cells, plays an important role in this interactive system. Dopamine inhibits the activity of Na+,K+ ATPase as well as of many important sodium influx pathways in the nephron. These effects of dopamine are particularly pronounced in situation of sodium loading. There is an abundance of evidence suggesting that the natriuretic effects of ANP are to a large extent mediated via renal dopamine 1 like receptors. The renal tubular dopamine 1 like receptors are, under basal conditions, mainly located intracellularly. ANP and its second messenger, cGMP, cause a rapid translocation of the dopamine 1 like receptors to the plasma membrane. This phenomenon may explain how ANP and dopamine act in concert to regulate sodium metabolism. Regulation of sodium metabolism and blood pressure is critically dependent on a normal function of the renal dopamine system. Hence, abnormalities in the interaction between dopamine and ANP may predispose to hypertension.

Prostaglandin E(2) interaction with AVP: effects on AQP2 phosphorylation and distribution

Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) antagonizes the action of arginine vasopressin (AVP) on collecting duct water permeability. To investigate the mechanism of this antagonism, rat renal inner medulla (IM) was incubated with the two hormones, and the phosphorylation and subcellular distribution of the water channel, aquaporin-2 (AQP2) were studied. Using a phosphorylation state-specific AQP2 antibody, we demonstrated that AVP stimulates AQP2 phosphorylation at the Ser(256) protein kinase A consensus site in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In parallel studies using a differential centrifugation technique, we demonstrated that AVP induced translocation of AQP2 from an intracellular vesicle-enriched fraction to a plasma membrane-enriched fraction. PGE(2) (10(-7) M) added after AVP (10(-8) M) did not decrease AQP2 phosphorylation but reversed AVP-induced translocation of AQP2 to the plasma membrane. Preincubation of IM with PGE(2) did not prevent the effects of AVP on AQP2 phosphorylation and trafficking. PGE(2) alone did not influence AQP2 phosphorylation and subcellular distribution. Our data indicate that 1) recruitment of AQP2 to the plasma membrane and its retrieval to a pool of intracellular vesicles may be regulated independently, 2) PGE(2) may counteract AVP action by activation of AQP2 retrieval, 3) dephosphorylation of AQP2 is not a prerequisite for its internalization.

Anatomical and physiological evidence for D1 and D2 dopamine receptor colocalization in neostriatal neurons

Despite the importance of dopamine signaling, it remains unknown if the two major subclasses of dopamine receptors exist on the same or distinct populations of neurons. Here we used confocal microscopy to demonstrate that virtually all striatal neurons, both in vitro and in vivo, contained dopamine receptors of both classes. We also provide functional evidence for such colocalization: in essentially all neurons examined, fenoldopam, an agonist of the D1 subclass of receptors, inhibited both the Na+/K+ pump and tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive sodium channels, and quinpirole, an agonist of the D2 subclass of receptors, activated TTX-sensitive sodium channels. Thus D1 and D2 classes of ligands may functionally interact in virtually all dopamine-responsive neurons within the basal ganglia.

Intrarenal dopamine coordinates the effect of antinatriuretic and natriuretic factors

The precision by which sodium balance is regulated suggests an intricate interaction between modulatory factors released from intra- and extrarenal sources. Intrarenally produced dopamine has a central role in this interactive network. Dopamine, produced in renal tubular cells acts as an autocrine and paracrine factor to inhibit the activity of Na+,K+-ATPase as well as of a number of sodium influx pathways. The natriuretic effect of dopamine is most prominent under high salt diet. The antinatriuretic effects of noradrenaline, acting on alpha-adrenoceptors and angiotensin II are opposed by dopamine as well as by atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). Several lines of evidence have suggested that ANP acts via the renal dopamine system and recent studies from our laboratory have shown that this effect is attributed to recruitment of silent D1 receptors from the interior of the cell towards the plasma membrane. Taken together, the observations suggest that dopamine coordinates the effects of antinatriuretic and natriuretic factors and indicate that an intact renal dopamine system is of major importance for the maintenance of sodium homeostasis and normal blood pressure.

Localization and regulation of PKA-phosphorylated AQP2 in response to V(2)-receptor agonist/antagonist treatment

Phosphorylation of Ser(256), in a PKA consensus site, in AQP2 (p-AQP2) appears to be critically involved in the vasopressin-induced trafficking of AQP2. In the present study, affinity-purified antibodies that selectively recognize AQP2 phosphorylated at Ser(256) were developed. These antibodies were used to determine 1) the subcellular localization of p-AQP2 in rat kidney and 2) changes in distribution and/or levels of p-AQP2 in response to [desamino-Cys(1),D-Arg(8)]vasopressin (DDAVP) treatment or V(2)-receptor blockade. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed that p-AQP2 was localized in both the apical plasma membrane and in intracellular vesicles of collecting duct principal cells. Treatment of rats with V(2)-receptor antagonist for 30 min resulted in almost complete disappearance of p-AQP2 labeling of the apical plasma membrane with only marginal labeling of intracellular vesicles remaining. Immunoblotting confirmed a marked decrease in p-AQP2 levels. In control Brattleboro rats (BB), lacking vasopressin secretion, p-AQP2 labeling was almost exclusively present in intracellular vesicles. Treatment of BB rats with DDAVP for 2 h induced a 10-fold increase in p-AQP2 labeling of the apical plasma membrane. The overall abundance of p-AQP2, however, was not increased, as determined both by immunoelectron microscopy and immunoblotting. Consistent with this, 2 h of DDAVP treatment of normal rats also resulted in unchanged p-AQP2 levels. Thus the results demonstrate that AQP2 phosphorylated in Ser(256) is present in the apical plasma membrane and in intracellular vesicles and that both the intracellular distribution/trafficking, as well as the abundance of p-AQP2, are regulated via V(2) receptors by altering phosphorylation and/or dephosphorylation of Ser(256) in AQP2.

Age-dependent expression of protein phosphatase 2A in the developing rat kidney

Several lines of evidence suggest that the serine/threonine protein phosphatase (PP)2A is of vital importance for cell cycle regulation, cell differentiation, and signal transduction. This prompted us to study the expression of the mRNA for PP2A catalytic isoforms alpha and beta in the developing rat kidney using in situ hybridization histochemistry. The expression patterns of the two isoforms were strikingly similar. Both were ubiquitously expressed in early metanephric kidneys. Later in gestation they were expressed in the nephrogenic zone. Strong expression was observed on postnatal day (PN) 10. This was followed by a downregulation at PN20, i.e., when nephrogenesis is completed. The expression in the adult kidney was very weak and mainly confined to the medulla. In a phosphatase activity assay, PP2A accounted for 78% of the total serine/threonine phosphatase activity in embryonic day 15 rat kidneys. PP1 was the main contributor to the remaining activity. In conclusion, PP2A is the major serine/threonine phosphatase in fetal kidneys. The age-dependent expression pattern supports the concept that this enzyme is of particular importance during renal morphogenesis and development.

Dopamine in the developing kidney

The adult kidney has a high rate of dopamine (DA) production, metabolism, and signalling. The non-neuronal DA system in the adult kidney is of utmost importance for the regulation of salt metabolism. DA may also act as a transcription factor and may be of importance for tissue differentiation. In the central nervous system, D1 receptors require the dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein with a molecular weight of 32,000 Dalton (DARPP-32) to mediate their actions. The renal D1 mediates DARPP-32 activation via a cascade involving cAMP and PKA, and protein kinase C (PKC) activation via phospholipase C. Active DARPP-32 has a specific inhibitory effect on protein phosphatase 1 (PP1), leaving, e.g. Na+,K+-ATPase in a phosphorylated, inactive, state. Thus, dopamine acts as a natriuretic hormone in the mature kidney. Here, we discuss the age-dependent distribution and some functional aspects of several parts of the renal dopamine system (dopamine, AADC, COMT, D1 receptor, and DARPP-32) during renal morphogenesis.

Regulation of Na+, K+-ATPase isoforms in rat neostriatum by dopamine and protein kinase C

Our previous studies showed that dopamine inhibits Na+,K+-ATPase activity in acutely dissociated neurons from striatum. In the present study, we have found that in this preparation, dopamine inhibited significantly (by approximately 25%) the activity of the alpha3 and/or alpha2 isoforms, but not the alpha1 isoform, of Na+,K+-ATPase. Dopamine, via D1 receptors, activates cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) in striatal neurons. Dopamine is also known to activate the calcium- and phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (PKC) in a number of different cell types. The PKC activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate reduced the activity of Na+,K+-ATPase alpha3 and/or alpha2 isoforms (by approximately 30%) as well as the alpha1 isoform (by approximately 15%). However, dopamine-mediated inhibition of Na+,K+-ATPase activity was unaffected by calphostin C, a PKC inhibitor. Dopamine did not affect the phosphorylation of Na+,K+-ATPase isoforms at the PKA-dependent phosphorylation site. Phorbol ester treatment did not alter the phosphorylation of alpha2 or alpha3 isoforms of Na+,K+-ATPase in neostriatal neurons but did increase the phosphorylation of the alpha1 isoform. Thus, in rat neostriatal neurons, treatment with either dopamine or PKC activators results in inhibition of the activity of specific (alpha3 and/or alpha2) isoforms of Na+,K+-ATPase, but this is not apparently mediated through direct phosphorylation of the enzyme. In addition, PKC is unlikely to mediate inhibition of rat Na+,K+-ATPase activity by dopamine in neostriatal neurons.

Requirement for DARPP-32 in mediating effect of dopamine D2 receptor activation

It is well documented that dopamine and dopamine D1 agonists convert the protein phosphatase-1 inhibitor, DARPP-32, from its dephosphorylated, inactive form into its Thr34-phosphorylated, active form, and that these effects on DARPP-32 constitute essential components of the mechanism by which dopamine and D1 agonists achieve their biological effects. In contrast to dopamine and D1 agonists, dopamine D2 agonists dephosphorylate and inactivate DARPP-32. Here we have examined the possibility that the biological effects of dopamine D2 receptor agonists might also involve DARPP-32. For this purpose, we have examined regulation of the activity of the electrogenic ion pump Na+,K+-ATPase, an established target for dopamine signalling. We have found that dopamine D1 agonists and dopamine D2 agonists inhibit Na+,K+-ATPase activity in dissociated cells from the mouse neostriatum and that, in each case, the effect is abolished in cells from mice deficient in DARPP-32. We conclude that DARPP-32 may play an obligatory role in dopaminergic signalling mediated both by D1 receptors and by D2 receptors.

[Ca2+]i determines the effects of protein kinases A and C on activity of rat renal Na+,K+-ATPase

1. It is well established that the activity of Na+,K+-ATPase (NKA) is regulated by protein kinases A (PKA) and C (PKC), but results on their effects have been conflicting. The aim of this study was to examine if this is ascribed to the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i). 2. Rat renal NKA was stably expressed in COS cells (green monkey kidney cells). Increases in [Ca2+]i were achieved with the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 and verified by direct measurements of [Ca2+]i using fura-2 AM as an indicator. The activity of NKA was measured as ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake and the state of phosphorylation of NKA was monitored with two site-directed phosphorylation state-specific antibodies. 3. Activation of PKA with forskolin decreased NKA activity by 45.5 +/- 8.9 % at low [Ca2+]i (120 nM) and increased it by 40.5 +/- 6.4 % at high [Ca2+]i (420 nM). The change in NKA activity by forskolin correlated with the level of increase in [Ca2+]i. 4. The effect of 1-oleoyl-2-acetoyl-sn-glycerol (OAG), a specific PKC activator, on the activity of NKA was also Ca2+ dependent, being inhibitory when [Ca2+]i was low (29.3 +/- 3.6 % decrease at 120 nM Ca2+) and stimulatory when [Ca2+]i was high (36.6 +/- 10.1 % increase at 420 nM Ca2+). 5. The alpha subunit of NKA was phosphorylated under both low and high [Ca2+]i conditions upon PKA or PKC activation. PKA phosphorylates Ser943. PKC phosphorylates Ser23. 6. To see if the observed effects on NKA activity are secondary to changes in Na+ entry, we measured NKA hydrolytic activity using permeabilized membranes isolated from cells under controlled Na+ conditions. A decreased activity at low [Ca2+]i and no change in activity at high [Ca2+]i were observed following forskolin or OAG treatment. 7. Purified NKA from rat renal cortex was phosphorylated and inhibited by PKC. This phosphorylation-associated inhibition of NKA was neither affected by Ca2+ nor by calmodulin, tested alone or together. 8. We conclude that effect of PKA/PKC on NKA activity is dependent on [Ca2+]i. This Ca2+ dependence may provide an explanation for the diversity of responses of NKA to activation of either PKA or PKC.

Receptor recruitment: a mechanism for interactions between G protein-coupled receptors

There is a great deal of evidence for synergistic interactions between G protein-coupled signal transduction pathways in various tissues. As two specific examples, the potent effects of the biogenic amines norepinephrine and dopamine on sodium transporters and natriuresis can be modulated by neuropeptide Y and atrial natriuretic peptide, respectively. Here, we report, using a renal epithelial cell line, that both types of modulation involve recruitment of receptors from the interior of the cell to the plasma membrane. The results indicate that recruitment of G protein-coupled receptors may be a ubiquitous mechanism for receptor sensitization and may play a role in the modulation of signal transduction comparable to that of the well established phenomenon of receptor endocytosis and desensitization.

Arginine vasopressin stimulates phosphorylation of aquaporin-2 in rat renal tissue

Aquaporin-2 (AQP2), the protein that mediates arginine vasopressin (AVP)-regulated apical water transport in the renal collecting duct, possesses a single consensus phosphorylation site for cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) at Ser256. The aim of this study was to examine whether AVP, and other agents that increase cAMP levels, could stimulate the phosphorylation of AQP2 in intact rat renal tissue. Rat renal papillae were prelabeled with 32P and incubated with vehicle or drugs, and then AQP2 was immunoprecipitated. Two polypeptides corresponding to nonglycosylated (29 kDa) and glycosylated (35-48 kDa) AQP2 were identified by SDS-PAGE. AVP caused a time- and dose-dependent increase in phosphorylation of both glycosylated and nonglycosylated AQP2. The threshold dose for a significant increase in phosphorylation was 10 pM, which corresponds to a physiological serum concentration of AVP. Maximal phosphorylation was reached within 1 min of AVP incubation. This effect on AQP2 phosphorylation was mimicked by the vasopressin (V2) agonist, 1-desamino-[8-D-arginine]vasopressin (DDAVP), or forskolin. Two-dimensional phosphopeptide mapping indicated that AVP and forskolin stimulated the phosphorylation of the same site in AQP2. Immunoblot analysis using a phosphorylation state-specific antiserum revealed an increase in phosphorylation of Ser256 after incubation of papillae with AVP. The results indicate that AVP stimulates phosphorylation of AQP2 at Ser256 via activation of PKA, supporting the idea that this is one of the first steps leading to increased water permeability in collecting duct cells.

Effects of okadaic acid, calyculin A, and PDBu on state of phosphorylation of rat renal Na+-K+-ATPase

Several indirect lines of evidence suggest that protein kinases and phosphatases modulate the activity of renal Na+-K+-ATPase. The aim of this study was to examine whether such regulation may occur via modulation of the state of phosphorylation of Na+-K+-ATPase. Slices from rat renal cortex were prelabeled with [32P]orthophosphate and incubated with the inhibitors of protein phosphatase (PP)-1 and PP-2A, okadaic acid (OA) and calyculin A (CL-A), respectively, the protein kinase C (PKC) activator, phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), or the PP-2B inhibitor, FK-506. Phosphorylation of Na+-K+-ATPase alpha-subunit was evaluated by measuring the amount of [32P]phosphate incorporation into the immunoprecipitated protein. Incubation with either OA, CL-A, or PDBu caused four- to fivefold increases in the amount of [32P]phosphate incorporation into immunoprecipitated Na+-K+-ATPase alpha-subunit. OA and PDBu had a synergistic effect on the state of phosphorylation of Na+-K+-ATPase alpha-subunit. FK-506 did not affect Na+-K+-ATPase phosphorylation, neither alone nor in the presence of PDBu. Each of the drugs, OA, CL-A, and PDBu, inhibited the activity of Na+-K+-ATPase in microdissected proximal tubules. PDBu potentiated OA-induced inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase activity. Inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase required a lower dose of CL-A than of OA. On the basis of the inhibitory constant values of CL-A and OA for PP-1 and PP-2A, it is concluded that the tubular effect is mainly due to inhibition of PP-1. The PP-1 activity in rat renal cortex was approximately 1.5 nmol Pi. mg protein-1. min-1. Using a monoclonal anti-alpha antibody that fails to recognize the subunit when Ser23 is phosphorylated by PKC, we demonstrated that the dose response of PDBu inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase correlated with the dose response of phosphorylation of the enzyme. The results suggest that the state of phosphorylation and activity of proximal tubular Na+-K+-ATPase are determined by the balance between the activities of protein kinases and phosphatases.

Forskolin-induced down-regulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity is not associated with internalization of the enzyme

Activation by protein kinase A by forskolin phosphorylates and inactivates Na+,K(+)-ATPase in COS-7 cells (Cheng et al. 1997b). In this study we show, using [3H]ouabain binding, that forskolin-induced inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity is not because of internalization of the enzyme. The effect of forskolin on Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity was examined by two independent methods, ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake in intact cells and ATP hydrolysis in microsomal preparations from cells. The change in number of functional pumps on cell surface before and after protein kinase A activation was assessed by [3H]ouabain binding measured under equilibrium conditions. Cells, which had been ATP-depleted by antimycin A and 2-deoxyglucose treatment, served as a positive control for the internalization of Na+,K(+)-ATPase. Activation of protein kinase A with forskolin in combination with the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methyl xanthine, inhibited Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity, but this treatment had no effect on specific ouabain binding. No change in ouabain binding was found following activation of protein kinase C by phorbol ester or diacyl glycerol analogue treatment in cells. These data suggest that protein kinase A phosphorylation and inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity does not lead to any internalization of the enzyme in COS-7 cells.

Neuropeptide Y shifts equilibrium between alpha- and beta-adrenergic tonus in proximal tubule cells

Renal sympathetic nerves play a central role in the regulation of tubular Na+ reabsorption. Norepinephrine (NE) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) are colocalized in renal sympathetic nerve endings. The purpose of this study is to examine the integrated effects of these neurotransmitters on the regulation of Na+-K+-ATPase, the enzyme responsible for active Na+ reabsorption in renal tubular cells. Studies were performed on proximal tubular segments, which express adrenergic alpha- and beta-receptors, as well as NPY-Y2 receptors. It was found that alpha- and beta-adrenergic agonists had opposing effects on Na+-K+-ATPase activity. beta-Adrenergic agonists induced a dose-dependent inhibition of the Na+-K+-ATPase activity, whereas alpha-adrenergic agonists stimulated the enzyme. NPY abolished beta-agonist-induced deactivation of Na+-K+-ATPase and enhanced alpha-agonist-induced activation of Na+-K+-ATPase. The beta-adrenergic agonist appeared to inhibit Na+-K+-ATPase activity via a cAMP pathway. NPY antagonized beta-agonist-induced accumulation of cAMP. In our preparation, NE alone had no net effect but stimulated the Na+-K+-ATPase activity in the presence of beta-adrenergic antagonists, as well as in the presence of NPY. The results indicate that, in renal tissue, NPY determines the net effect of its colocalized transmitter, NE, by its ability to attenuate the beta- and enhance the alpha-adrenergic effect.

Dopamine-induced recruitment of dopamine D1 receptors to the plasma membrane

The recruitment of G protein-coupled receptors from the cytoplasm to the plasma membrane generally is believed to be a constitutive process. We show here by the use of both confocal microscopy and subcellular fractionation that, for at least one such receptor, this recruitment is regulated and not constitutive. Cells from a proximal tubular-like cell line, LLCPK1 cells, were incubated with either a D1 agonist, a dopamine precursor, or an inhibitor of dopamine metabolism to increase dopamine availability in the cell. Each of the three procedures led to a rapid translocation of dopamine D1 receptors from the cytosol to the plasma membrane.

Na+,K(+)-ATPase phosphorylation in the choroid plexus: synergistic regulation by serotonin/protein kinase C and isoproterenol/cAMP-PK/PP-1 pathways

BACKGROUND

The ion pump Na+,K(+)-ATPase is responsible for the secretion of cerebrospinal fluid from the choroid plexus. In this tissue, the activity of Na+,K(+)-ATPase is inhibited by serotonin via stimulation of protein kinase C-catalyzed phosphorylation. The choroid plexus is highly enriched in two phosphoproteins which act as regulators of protein phosphatase-1 activity, DARPP-32 and inhibitor-1. Phosphorylation catalyzed by cAMP-dependent protein kinase on a single threonyl residue converts DARPP-32 and inhibitor-1 into potent inhibitors of protein phosphatase-1. Previous work has shown that in the choroid plexus, phosphorylation of DARPP-32 and I-1 is enhanced by isoproterenol and other agents that activate cAMP-PK. We have now examined the possible involvement of the cAMP-PK/protein phosphatase-1 pathway in the regulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The state of phosphorylation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase was measured by determining the amount of radioactivity incorporated into the ion pump following immunoprecipitation from 32P-prelabeled choroid plexuses incubated with various drugs (see below). Two-dimensional phosphopeptide mapping was employed to identify the protein kinase involved in the phosphorylation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase.

RESULTS

The serotonin-mediated increase in Na+,K(+)-ATPase phosphorylation is potentiated by okadaic acid, an inhibitor of protein phosphatases-1 and -2A, as well as by forskolin or the beta-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol, activators of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Two-dimensional phosphopeptide maps suggest that this potentiating action occurs at the level of a protein kinase C phosphorylation site. Forskolin and isoproterenol also stimulate the phosphorylation of DARPP-32 and protein phosphatase inhibitor-1, which in their phosphorylated form are potent inhibitors of protein phosphatase-1.

CONCLUSIONS

The results presented here support a model in which okadaic acid, forskolin, and isoproterenol achieve their synergistic effects with serotonin through phosphorylation of DARPP-32 and inhibitor-1, inhibition of protein phosphatase-1, and a reduction of dephosphorylation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase at a protein kinase C phosphorylation site.

Regulation of rat Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity by PKC is modulated by state of phosphorylation of Ser-943 by PKA

We have previously shown that the rat Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha 1-isoform is phosphorylated at Ser-943 by protein kinase A (PKA) and at Ser-23 by protein kinase C (PKC), which in both cases results in inhibition of enzyme activity. We now present evidence that suggests that the phosphorylation of Ser-943 by PKA modulates the response of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase to PKC. Rat Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha 1 or a mutant in which Ser-943 was changed to Ala-943 was stably expressed in COS cells. The inhibition of enzyme activity measured in response to treatment with the phorbol ester, phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu; 10(-6) M), was significantly reduced in the cells expressing the Ala-943 mutant compared with that observed in cells expressing wild-type enzyme. In contrast, for cells expressing Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha 1 in which Ser-943 was mutated to Asp-943, the effect of PDBu was slightly enhanced. The PDBu-induced inhibition was not mediated by activation of the adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate/PKA system and was not achieved via direct phosphorylation of Ser-943. Sp-5,6-DCI-cBIMPS, a specific PKA activator, increased the phosphorylation of Ser-943, and this was associated with an enhanced response to PDBu. Thus the effect of PKC on rat Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha 1 is determined not only by the activity of PKC but also by the state of phosphorylation of Ser-943.

Perinatal changes in expression of aquaporin-4 and other water and ion transporters in rat lung

1. At birth, rapid removal of lung liquid from potential airspaces is required to establish pulmonary gas exchange. To investigate the role for water channels, aquaporins (AQP) and ion transporters in this process, the mRNA expression of AQP, Na+,K(+)-ATPase and the amiloride-sensitive Na+ channel (ENaC) were studied in the fetal and postnatal rat lung. 2. The mRNA expression of all transporters studied increased postnatally. 3. The following water channels were expressed in the lung, AQP1, 4 and 5. The most specific perinatal induction pattern was observed for AQP4. A sharp and transient increase of AQP4 mRNA occurred just after birth coinciding with the time course for clearance of lung liquid. This transient induction of AQP4 mRNA at birth was lung-tissue specific. Around birth there was a moderate increase in AQP1 mRNA, which was not transient. AQP5 increased continuously until adulthood. 4. Fetal lung AQP4 mRNA was induced by both beta-adrenergic agonists and glucocorticoid hormone, which are factors that have been suggested to accelerate the clearance of lung liquid. 5. Immunocytochemistry revealed that AQP4 was located in the basolateral membranes of bronchial epithelia in newborn rats, consistent with the view that this is the major site for perinatal lung liquid absorption. 6. The Na+,K(+)-ATPase alpha 1 subunit and ENaC alpha-subunit mRNA also increased around birth, suggesting that they co-operatively facilitate lung liquid clearance at birth. 7. These data indicate that removal of lung liquid at birth is associated with pronounced and well-synchronized changes in the expression of AQP and the ion transporters studied. The transient perinatal induction of AQP4, which could be prenatally induced by beta-adrenergic agonists, and the localization of this water channel strongly suggest that it plays a critical role for removal of lung liquid at the time of birth.

The renal dopamine system

Intrarenally formed dopamine induced natriuresis by inhibiting the activity of renal tubular Na/KATPase. This effect is mediated via a complex signal network, which includes inhibition of PP1 via the adenylyl cyclase-PKA-DARPP32 pathway and activation of PKC via the PLA2-arachidonic acid-20HETE pathway. The renal dopamine availability is a major determinant of the natriuretic effect of dopamine and is to a large extent modulated by the activity of COMT. The possibility that regulation of dopamine storage and release influences renal dopamine effects should be considered.

Protein kinase C in the developing kidney: isoform expression and effects of ceramide and PKC inhibitors

Protein kinase C (PKC) is a serine/threonine kinase recognized as a key enzyme in signal transduction mechanisms in various biological processes. During development, PKC is involved in the regulation of growth and differentiation. In mature tissue PKC is important for homeostatic functions. We studied PKC with regard to expression and effects on differentiation, growth and apoptosis in the developing kidney. Using in situ hybridization, we demonstrate age-dependent expression of PKC alpha, PKC delta, PKC zeta and PKC lambda during fetal and postnatal kidney development. The endogenous sphingolipid product ceramide, as well as specific PKC inhibitors, disturbed nephron formation and induced apoptosis in organ cultures of E13 kidneys. In primary cell cultures of proximal tubule cells, ceramide and the specific PKC inhibitors induced apoptosis. In conclusion, PKC alpha, PKC delta, PKC zeta and PKC lambda are expressed in an age-dependent pattern during kidney development. Inhibition of PKC disturbs nephron formation, inhibits growth and induces apoptosis in the developing kidney. The findings suggest that PKC plays an important role in regulating normal kidney growth and differentiation.

PKA-mediated phosphorylation and inhibition of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in response to beta-adrenergic hormone

The activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase can be regulated by hormones that activate adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate-dependent protein kinase (PKA). Here, using a site-directed phosphorylation state-specific antibody, we show that hormonal regulation of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase can occur via phosphorylation of Ser-943 on its alpha-subunit. cDNAs coding for wild-type rat Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in which the PKA phosphorylation site Ser-943 was mutated to Ala were stably and transiently transfected into COS cells. In COS cells expressing wild-type Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (1 microM) significantly increased the level of phosphorylation of the alpha-subunit. Phosphorylation was accompanied by a significant inhibition of the enzyme activity, as reflected by a decrease in ATP hydrolysis and 86Rb+ transport. The effect of isoproterenol was reproduced by the PKA activator forskolin used in combination with the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and was abolished by the specific PKA inhibitor H-89. Okadaic acid, an inhibitor of protein phosphatases 1 and 2A, enhanced phosphorylation and inhibition of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase induced by isoproterenol. The changes in activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase linearly correlated with the extent of the alpha-subunit of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase being phosphorylated. When Ser-943 was replaced by alanine, stimulation of the phosphorylation and inhibition of the activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase induced by isoproterenol, alone or in combination with okadaic acid, were not observed. These results indicate that, in intact cells, modulation of the activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase can be achieved by regulation of the state of phosphorylation of Ser-943. Moreover, they provide a biochemical mechanism by which beta-adrenergic agonists can regulate Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity.

Inhibition of COMT induces dopamine-dependent natriuresis and inhibition of proximal tubular Na+,K+-ATPase

The enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), which plays an important role for dopamine metabolism, is abundantly expressed in the kidney. To test whether the natriuretic effects of dopamine may be related to the rate of dopamine metabolism, rats were treated with nitecapone, a peripheral inhibitor of COMT. Nitecapone, given by gavage, induced a highly significant (5.6-fold) increase in sodium excretion, which was associated with an inhibition of the Na+,K+-ATPase activity in both the proximal convoluted and proximal straight tubules (PCT and PST, respectively). These effects were completely abolished if the rats were also treated with a specific dopamine 1 antagonist, SCH 23390. Furthermore, the natriuretic effect of nitecapone was also observed in rats on a high salt diet. The kidney-specific pro-drug to dopamine, glu-dopa, induced a significant, but less pronounced increase in urinary sodium excretion, associated with a dopamine-dependent inhibition of the Na+,K+-ATPase activity in the PCT but not in the PST. Nitecapone and glu-dopa had an additive natriuretic effect. It is concluded that COMT plays an important role in determining the natriuretic effects of the renal dopamine system.

Mutation of the protein kinase C phosphorylation site on rat alpha1 Na+,K+-ATPase alters regulation of intracellular Na+ and pH and influences cell shape and adhesiveness

The enzyme Na+,K+-ATPase creates the transmembrane Na+ gradient that is of vital importance for functioning of all eukaryotic cells. Na+, K+-ATPase can be phosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC), and these sites of phosphorylation have been identified. In the present study, we have examined the physiological significance of PKC phosphorylation of rat Na+,K+-ATPase. In COS cells transfected with wild type rat Na+,K+-ATPase alpha1, intracellular Na+ was higher and pH was lower than in cells transfected with rat Na+,K+-ATPase alpha1 in which the PKC phosphorylation site, Ser-23, had been mutated into alanine. Phorbol dibutyrate inhibited Na+,K+-ATPase-dependent ATP hydrolysis and Rb+ uptake in cells expressing wild type Na+,K+-ATPase but not in cells expressing S23A Na+,K+-ATPase. Cells expressing the S23A mutant had a more rounded appearance and attached less well to fibronectin than did untransfected cells or cells transfected with wild type rat Na+, K+-ATPase alpha1. These results indicate a functional role for PKC-mediated phosphorylation of rat Na+,K+-ATPase alpha1 and suggest a connection between this enzyme and cell adhesion.

Pyelonephritis provokes growth retardation and apoptosis in infant rat renal cortex

Childhood pyelonephritis is a common cause of renal cortical scarring and hypoplastic kidneys. To understand the mechanisms underlying the cortical lesions, urinary tract infection was induced in three-week-old rats by an intravesical infusion of E. coli, type 06 K13 HL a rat nephropathogenic strain. Four days after infection, histopathological examination showed marked infiltration of leukocytes in the medullary tissue adjoining the calyces and pelvis. In the cortex, signs of inflammation were found only in the cortical zone adjacent to the pelvis. No cells indicative of inflammation were observed in other parts of the cortex. Immunohistochemistry for endogenous proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) demonstrated a marked decrease in immunoreactivity in proximal tubular (PT) cells. The mitotic response of PT cells, assessed by 3H-thymidine autoradiography, showed a highly significant decrease during the first four days after induction of the infection. Four days after infection, a transient increase in apoptotic cells was observed in cortical cells outside the inflammatory areas. No increase in apoptotic cells was detected in the cortex 10 days after infection. Only a few apoptotic cells were detected in the control kidneys. In conclusion, the data indicate that inhibition of cell proliferation and enhancement of apoptosis may contribute to the renal parenchymal loss after childhood pyelonephritis.

Rapid development of glomerulosclerosis in diabetic Dahl salt-sensitive rats

Diabetic nephropathy tends to develop more readily in patients with a family history of hypertension and/or disturbances in sodium transport across the plasma membrane. This prompted us to study the renal effects of diabetes mellitus in a rat strain which is predisposed to develop salt-sensitive hypertension, the Dahl salt-sensitive rat. Diabetes is associated with several aberrations in the renal handling of sodium, such as elevation of tubular Na+, K+ATPase activity. This effect was more pronounced in Dahl salt-sensitive than in Dahl salt-resistant rats. Severe renal lesions, characteristic of the advanced phase of diabetic nephropathy are very rarely observed in rats with streptozotocin diabetes. However, 2 months after induction of diabetes, the Dahl salt-sensitive rats had morphological signs of advanced glomerular disease. The urinary albumin concentration was very high, but did not correlate with the blood pressure. Non-diabetic Dahl salt-sensitive rats as well as Dahl salt-resistant diabetic and non-diabetic rats had little or no signs of glomerular disease and consistently very low urinary albumin concentrations.

Adenylate cyclase-coupled vasopressin receptor activates AQP2 promoter via a dual effect on CRE and AP1 elements

Vasopressin plays an essential role for the regulation of water balance by activating the collecting duct-specific water channel, aquaporin-2 (AQP2). Here we present evidence that vasopressin may also act as a long-term, transcriptional regulator of AQP2. The studies were performed on LLC-PK1 cells, which normally express V2 receptor (V2R) and which were transfected with a fragment of the human AQP2 promoter. Activation of the adenylate cyclase-coupled V2R in LLC-PK1 cells induced phosphorylation of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) responsive element binding protein (CREB) and expression of c-Fos. Binding of these factors to the CRE and AP1 site did, in combination, lead to AQP2 promoter activation. These results establish the role of vasopressin as a regulator of transcription and are the first example of how a message from a highly specific receptor is, via a dual effect of the cAMP signal on CREB and immediate early gene expression, transduced to the transcription of a final target protein with known biological effects.

The dopaminuric response to high salt diet in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and in family history of hypertension

Alterations in the renal dopamine [DA] system have been suggested to contribute to the development of hypertension and diabetic nephropathy. To identify early abnormalities in renal handling of DA and sodium we challenged 16 normotensive patients with uncomplicated insulin-dependent diabetes (IDDM), 18 normotensive nondiabetic subjects with familial borderline hypertension, and 16 healthy controls, 14-29 years old, with a high-sodium diet (HSD). Systolic blood pressure was slightly higher in subjects with familial borderline hypertension than in the other groups on a normal sodium diet (NSD) (P < 0.05). Blood pressure and 24-h urinary measurements were performed on a NSD and after 3 days on a HSD. Twenty-four-hour urinary DA excretion was similar in all groups on NSD. A significant rise in DA excretion was noted after HSD in control subjects (P < 0.01), but not in subjects with a family history of hypertension or with IDDM. Urinary sodium excretion increased in all groups. A correlation between the change in DA and sodium/creatinine ratio after HSD was seen in healthy controls (r = 0.57, P = 0.02) but not in those with familial borderline hypertension (r = 0.18, P = 0.47) or with IDDM (r = 0.40, P = 0.15). A rise in systolic (but not diastolic) pressure was noted only in the IDDM group after HSD (P = 0.02). In conclusion, an impairment in the renal DA and sodium system can be detected early in IDDM and in individuals with familial hypertension. We speculate that this impairment may contribute to the development of hypertension and microvascular disease in both conditions.