Significantly reduced expression of the proteoglycan decorin in Alzheimer's disease fibroblasts

Aims-To investigate whether proteoglycan synthesis is altered in skin fibroblasts in patients with Alzheimer's disease compared with normal subjects.Methods-Cell lines obtained from donors with Alzheimer's disease and healthy controls were incubated with radioactive sulphate. The proteoglycans synthesised were determined and analysed by chromatographic, sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and glycosaminoglycans-lyase treatment. The amount of decorin synthesised by each cell line was quantified using western blot analysis. Transcripts for human decorin were determined using northern blot analysis.Results-No significant changes in total sulphate incorporation and glycos-aminoglycan (GAG) composition were detected in the incubation media of these cells. However, chromatographic and SDS-PAGE analysis of the proteoglycans secreted by the cell lines showed that a dermatan sulphate proteoglycan of 150-125 kilodaltons was substantially reduced in Alzheimer's disease fibroblasts. The molecular characteristics of this proteoglycan correspond to decorin. Western blot analysis indicated that decorin was reduced in Alzheimer's disease incubation medium compared with normal medium. Northern blotting indicated that in Alzheimer's disease fibroblasts decorin transcripts were significantly reduced compared with normal fibroblasts. Glypican concentrations, a cell surface heparan sulphate proteoglycan, remained the same.Conclusions-These results strongly suggest that the expression and synthesis of decorin is affected in Alzheimer's disease skin fibroblasts.

Antisense inhibition of decorin expression in myoblasts decreases cell responsiveness to transforming growth factor beta and accelerates skeletal muscle differentiation

Decorin is a member of the family of the small leucine-rich proteoglycans. In addition to its function as an extracellular matrix organizer, it has the ability to activate the epidermal growth factor receptor, and it forms complexes with various isoforms of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta). Decorin is expressed during skeletal muscle differentiation and is up-regulated in dystrophic muscle. In this study we investigated the role of decorin in TGF-beta-dependent inhibition of myogenesis. To probe the function of decorin during myogenesis, C(2)C(12) myoblasts were stably transfected with a plasmid expressing antisense decorin mRNA. The resulting inhibition of decorin expression led to the expression of myogenin, a master transcription factor for muscle differentiation, under growth conditions and accelerated skeletal muscle differentiation as determined by the expression of creatine kinase. In contrast myogenin expression was inhibited by adenovirally induced decorin expression or by adding exogenous decorin. Reduced synthesis of decorin resulted in a 7-fold decreased sensitivity to TGF-beta-mediated inhibition of myogenin expression. In contrast, adenovirally induced decorin expression in wild type cells resulted in a 5-fold increased sensitivity to TGF-beta-mediated inhibition of myogenin expression. Transfection studies with the TGF-beta-dependent promoter of the plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 coupled with luciferase revealed that the transducing receptors for TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 were involved in the different responses of wild type and antisense decorin myoblasts. These results demonstrate that a reduction of decorin expression or of decorin availability results in a decreased responsiveness to TGF-beta. These findings strongly suggest a new role for decorin during skeletal muscle terminal differentiation by activating TGF-beta-dependent signaling pathways.

Expression and localization of proteoglycans during limb myogenic activation

After arriving at the limb bud, migrating myogenic precursor cells express transcription factors responsible for the induction of terminal skeletal muscle differentiation. One such factor is myogenin, a member of the basic helix-loop-helix family, known to activate the expression of muscle-specific genes. The extracellular signals involved in activating the myogenic program in the muscle precursor cells that reach the limb in vivo are not known. However, in vitro, it has been shown that proteoglycans, macromolecules composed of a core protein and glycosaminoglycan chains, modulate the triggering of myogenin activity. To understand the role of proteoglycans during limb muscle development, we assessed the synthesis of proteoglycans in limb bud explants at 10.5 days post coitum, when migrating cells arrive, evaluated the expression and nature of these macromolecules during in vivo early limb bud formation, and determined the colocalization of myoblasts expressing myogenin with specific proteoglycans. We found that the expression of myogenin was temporally and spatially coincident with the expression of syndecan-3 and decorin, two essential proteoglycans in the modulation of skeletal muscle differentiation. This article is the first report of myogenic activation and proteoglycan expression during limb muscle formation.

Synthesis of proteoglycans is augmented in dystrophic mdx mouse skeletal muscle

Mdx mice uniquely recover from degenerative dystrophic lesions through an intense myoproliferative response. The onset and progression of this process are controlled by a complex set of interactions between myoblasts and their environment. The presence of the extracellular matrix is essential for normal myogenesis. Proteoglycans are abundant components of the extracellular matrix. The synthesis of proteoglycans in mdx mice during skeletal muscle regeneration was evaluated. Incorporation of radioactive sulfate demonstrated a significant increase in the synthesis of several types of proteoglycans in mdx animals compared to age-matched controls. The size and charge of proteoglycans synthesized by the mdx mice remained unchanged. In particular, one of the up-regulated proteoglycans, the small chondroitin/dermatan sulfate proteoglycan decorin which is known to bind and to sequester transforming growth factor-beta, was investigated. Immunocytolocalization and in situ hybridization studies showed that decorin mainly accumulated in the endomysium, i.e. around individual skeletal muscle fibers from M. tibialis anterior and diaphragm.

Antisense inhibition of syndecan-3 expression during skeletal muscle differentiation accelerates myogenesis through a basic fibroblast growth factor-dependent mechanism

Syndecan-3 is a member of a family of transmembrane proteoglycans that posses highly homologous cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains and function as extracellular matrix receptors and low-affinity receptors for signaling molecules such as basic fibroblasts growth factor (FGF-2). Syndecan-3 is transiently expressed in developing limb bud and absent in adult skeletal muscle. In this study we investigated the expression of syndecan-3 and its role on FGF-2-dependent inhibition of myogenesis. Syndecan-3 expression was down-regulated during skeletal muscle differentiation of C(2)C(12) myoblasts, as determined by Northern blot analyses and immunoprecipitation. To probe the function of syndecan-3 during myogenesis, C(2)C(12) myoblasts were stably transfected with a plasmid coding for antisense syndecan-3 mRNA. The resulting inhibition of syndecan-3 expression caused accelerated skeletal muscle differentiation, as determined by expression of creatine kinase and myosin and myoblast fusion. Expression of a master transcription factor for muscle differentiation, myogenin, was also accelerated in antisense syndecan-3-transfected myoblasts compared with control transfected and wild type cells. Reduced expression of syndecan-3 resulted in a 13-fold decrease in sensitivity to FGF-2-dependent inhibition of myogenin expression. Addition of heparin partially reversed this effect. These results demonstrate that syndecan-3 expression is down-regulated during differentiation and the level of expression of membrane-bound heparan sulfate on myoblast surface is critical for fine modulation of responsiveness to FGF-2. These findings strongly suggest a role for syndecan-3 in regulation of skeletal muscle terminal differentiation.

Interaction of skeletal muscle cells with collagen type IV is mediated by perlecan associated with the cell surface

We have previously shown that the expression of perlecan, a heparan sulfate proteoglycan localized on the myoblast surface, is down-regulated during terminal differentiation of skeletal muscle myoblasts (Larraín et al. [1997] Exp. Cell Res. 234:405-412). In this study, we have evaluated the biochemical characteristics of perlecan, its association with the myoblast surface, and its involvement in C(2)C(12) myoblast adhesion to different substrates. Perlecan associated with myoblasts was solubilized by Triton X-100, whereas heparin, high salt, and RGD peptides were unable to solubilize perlecan. Pre-incubation of myoblasts with [(35)S]-Na(2)SO(4), followed by solubilization with Triton X-100 and immunoprecipitation with antibodies against murine perlecan, demonstrated that this proteoglycan present on the cell surface has a heterogeneous size profile with a K(av) value of 0.45, determined by Sepharose CL-4B chromatography. Myoblasts were found to adhere with decreasing affinities to collagen type IV, type I, laminin, fibronectin, perlecan, and matrigel. We found that cell adhesion to collagen type IV was inhibited by blocking this substrate with exogenous perlecan prior to cell plating, whereas no effect was observed for laminin. Furthermore, adhesion of myoblasts to collagen type IV was inhibited by the perlecan core protein obtained by treatment of perlecan with heparitinase, as well as by pre-incubation of the cells with antibodies against murine perlecan. These data support the idea that skeletal muscle cells interact with collagen type IV through the perlecan core protein present on the surface of undifferentiated myoblasts.

Syndecan-1 expression inhibits myoblast differentiation through a basic fibroblast growth factor-dependent mechanism

Expression of syndecan-1, a cell-surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is down-regulated during skeletal muscle differentiation (Larraín, J., Cizmeci-Smith, G., Troncoso, V., Stahl, R. C., Carey, D. J., and Brandan, E. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 18418-18424). We examined the role of syndecan-1 in basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-dependent inhibition of myogenesis. C2C12 myoblasts were stably transfected with an expression plasmid containing the rat syndecan-1 coding region cDNA. Constitutive syndecan-1 expression resulted in a strongly diminished capacity of the transfected clones to differentiate and to express skeletal muscle-specific markers such as fusion, creatine kinase, and myosin. The expression of myogenin, a master transcription factor for muscle differentiation, was also reduced and delayed. Analysis of the induction of a myogenin promoter-driven reporter revealed that syndecan-1 expression resulted in a 6-7-fold increase in sensitivity to bFGF-dependent inhibition of myogenin expression. Transfecting the cells with a plasmid containing myogenin cDNA reversed the inhibition of myogenin transcriptional activation and myosin expression in syndecan-1-transfected cells; however, cell fusion was not observed. These results demonstrate that syndecan-1 expression enhances cell responsiveness to bFGF and inhibits myoblast fusion and suggest that muscle terminal differentiation is regulated by syndecan-1 expression.

Decorin core protein fragment Leu155-Val260 interacts with TGF-beta but does not compete for decorin binding to type I collagen

It has been shown that small proteoglycans containing leucine-rich repeats in their core proteins can form complexes with TGF-beta. Decorin, a ubiquitously found molecule of the extracellular matrix, is the best-studied example. Therefore, binding domains on its core protein were investigated using recombinant decorin fragments generated as fusion proteins in prokaryotes. The peptide Leu155-Val260 immobilized by the polyhistidine tag on a nickel chelate column bound TGF-beta1 and -beta2 almost as effectively as the largest fragment (Asp45-Lys359) studied. Other peptides were less effective. For the two peptides Asp45-Lys359 and Leu155-Val260 dissociation constants in the nanomolar range for high-affinity binding sites were calculated in a solid-phase assay with immobilized TGF-beta2. Peptide Asp45-Lys359 also contained a lower affinity binding site. Domains with lower affinity were also found in peptides Asp45-Leu155 and Arg63-Gly190. Peptide Leu155-Val260 also formed complexes with TGF-beta in the liquid phase as determined by equilibrium gel filtration. Furthermore, F(ab') fragments of polyclonal antibodies against peptide Leu155-Val260 interfered with TGF-beta binding to peptide Asp45-Lys359 in a dose-dependent manner. Peptide Leu155-Val260, however, is only a weak competitor of the binding of wild-type decorin to reconstituted type I collagen fibrils. Therefore, independent binding sites of decorin for TGF-beta and type I collagen should exist. In support of this hypothesis saturable binding of TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta2 to collagen-bound native decorin could be demonstrated. The bound cytokine could be released in a biologically active form by collagenase treatment. Thus, decorin may play a biological role in storing this cytokine temporarily in the extracellular matrix and in thereby modulating an interaction of TGF-beta with its signaling receptors.

Expression of perlecan, a proteoglycan that binds myogenic inhibitory basic fibroblast growth factor, is down regulated during skeletal muscle differentiation

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) have been shown to be involved in the activation of tyrosine kinase receptors by basic fibroblasts growth factor (bFGF), a strong inhibitor of skeletal muscle differentiation. Skeletal muscle fibers contact extracellular matrix (ECM) that surrounds individual fibers (endomysium) and bundles of several fibers (perimysium). Perlecan is a HSPG present in the majority of basement membranes. In this study we evaluated the expression and localization of perlecan during differentiation of C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. C2C12 myoblasts incubated with [35S]Na2SO4 synthesize a HSPG that can be specifically immunoprecipitated with antibodies against murine perlecan. The immunoprecipitated HSPG eluted from a Sepharose CL-4B with a Kav of 0.44. Analysis of the core protein of the HSPG immunoprecipitated from [35S]methionine-labeled C2C12 after treatment with heparitinase revealed two polypeptides of 170 and over 300 kDa. The amount of polypeptides immunoprecipitated decreased with muscle differentiation. Immunocytolocalization studies indicate that perlecan is localized on the myoblast surface and by immunogold staining we have demonstrated that it is associated with patches of incipient extracellular matrix. The expression of perlecan mRNA decreased substantially during skeletal muscle differentiation, in contrast to the increase in transcripts for specific skeletal muscle proteins such as myogenin and creatine kinase. By immunofluorescence microscopy almost no perlecan staining associated with the surface of myotubes was observed. All these results suggests that perlecan, a HSPG that binds myogenic inhibitory bFGF, normally associated with basement membranes in adult tissues is present on the surface of myoblasts and its expression is down regulated during skeletal muscle differentiation.

Syndecan-1 expression is down-regulated during myoblast terminal differentiation. Modulation by growth factors and retinoic acid

Syndecan-1 is an integral membrane proteoglycan involved in the interaction of cells with extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors. It is transiently expressed in several condensing mesenchymal tissues after epithelial induction. In this study we evaluated the expression of syndecan-1 during skeletal muscle differentiation. The expression of syndecan-1 as determined by Northern blot analyses and immunofluorescence microscopy is down-regulated during differentiation. The transcriptional activity of a syndecan-1 promoter construct is also down-regulated in differentiating muscle cells. The decrease in syndecan-1 gene expression is not dependent on the presence of E-boxes, binding sites for the MyoD family of transcription factors in the promoter region, or myogenin expression. Deletion of the region containing the E-boxes or treatment of differentiating cells with sodium butyrate, an inhibitor of myogenin expression, had no effect on syndecan-1 expression. Basic fibroblast growth factor and transforming growth factor type beta, which are inhibitors of myogenesis, had little effect on syndecan-1 expression. When added together, however, they induced syndecan-1 expression. Retinoic acid, an inducer of myogenesis, inhibited syndecan-1 expression and abolished the effect of the growth factors. These results indicate that syndecan-1 expression is down-regulated during myogenesis and that growth factors and retinoic acid modulate syndecan-1 expression by a mechanism that is independent of myogenin.

Ethodin: pharmacological evidence of the interaction between smooth muscle and mast cells in the myometrium

Ethodin has been used to induce labor through a mechanism that does not involve the estrogen-preparatory process being postulated as necessary for ensuring the events in a normal labor. The cellular mechanisms involved in that process are unknown. We used an isolated organ bath preparation for mouse uterine horns and a primary culture of mouse myometrial smooth muscle cells to analyze the cellular mechanisms involved in the contractile action of this drug in the myometrium. Ethodin at a concentration of 10 microM and Compound 48/80 (1 microg/ml) evoked contractions of uterine horns in an isolated organ bath preparation. Uterine contractile responses showed a transient increase in contractile tension that lasted 2 to 3 min. Tachyphylaxis was observed after four or five successive stimuli, which consisted in additions and washings of the drug at an interval of 10 min. The primary smooth muscle mouse myometrium cells contained a high proportion of relaxed cells that varied widely in length (5-160 microm). Cell lengths decreased in response to the application of serotonin (10 microM) and oxytocin (0.1 microM) but were not affected after the addition of ethodin (10 microM). However, the cells contracted after a purified fraction of mast cells that had been degranulated by the action of the drug ethodin, which was added to the culture medium. These results provide some evidence related to the mechanism of myometrial contractile action of ethodin and support the hypothesis that mast cells may be involved in the regulation of myometrium contractility.

Interaction between Alzheimer's disease beta A4 precursor protein (APP) and the extracellular matrix: evidence for the participation of heparan sulfate proteoglycans

The interaction between the Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein (APP) and an intact extracellular matrix (ECM), matrigel, obtained from Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm tumors was evaluated. Based on quantitative analyses of the binding data obtained from solid phase binding assays, two binding sites on the ECM were identified for [125I]-APP (with apparent Kd1 of 1.0 x 10(-11) M and Kd2 of 1.6 x 10(-9) M respectively). Over 70% of [125I]-APP was displaced by heparin and N-desulfated heparin but not by chondroitin sulfate. Pretreatment of matrigel with heparitinase decreased the binding of [125I]-APP by 80%. beta-amyloid peptides (residues 1-40, 1-28, and 1-16) containing a heparin binding domain also displaced 80% of bound [125I]-APP, which was totally displaced by intact APP. The binding of [125I]-APP to matrigel increased by 210% with a decrease in the pH. These observations suggest that [125I]-APP interacts mainly with heparan sulfate proteoglycan present in the ECM. The binding of [125I]-APP to individual ECM components was also analyzed. [125I]-APP was found to bind laminin and collagen type IV but not fibronectin. However, when these ECM constituents were combined, the extent of APP-binding decreased significantly, to levels comparable to those obtained with intact matrigel, suggesting that multiple interactions may occur between ECM constituents and [125I]-APP. The results are discussed in terms of APP function and amyloidogenesis.

Synthesis and processing of glypican during differentiation of skeletal muscle cells

We identified previously a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) releasable by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) on the surface of differentiated skeletal muscle cells (Campos et al., Eur. J. Biochem. 216, 587-595 (1993)) which is homologous to the HSPG synthesized by fibroblasts and Schwann cells called glypican. In this study we have evaluated the processing, location and amount of this HSPG in skeletal muscle cells during differentiation. Immunoprecipitation of incubation medium obtained from differentiated cells incubated with [35S]sulfate by specific antibodies against glypican isolated from Schwann cells demonstrated that the antisera precipitated an intact HSPG. Immunoblot analysis of the proteins released by PI-PLC after heparitinase treatment revealed the presence of a main band of 64 and a faint band of 62 kDa, whereas the sizes of the core proteins for glypican present in the incubation media were 62 and 59 kDa. Pulse-chase experiments indicated that glypican present in the membrane was spontaneously released into the culture medium with a t1/2 of 12 h. The level of expression of glypican was analyzed during in vitro differentiation. The specific amount of the PI-PLC releasable HSPG increased about fourfold during cell differentiation. No changes were detected in the level of the mRNA for glypican. Indirect analysis revealed that in myotubes glypican is present on the cell surface as well as associated with the extracellular matrix (ECM). These results indicate that glypican is present, at least, in two different compartments on the surface of skeletal muscle cells.

Extracellular matrix is required for skeletal muscle differentiation but not myogenin expression

Skeletal muscle cells are a useful model for studying cell differentiation. Muscle cell differentiation is marked by myoblast proliferation followed by progressive fusion to form large multinucleated myotubes that synthesize muscle-specific proteins and contract spontaneously. The molecular analysis of myogenesis has advanced with the identification of several myogenic regulatory factors, including myod1, myd, and myogenin. These factors regulate each other's expression and that of muscle-specific proteins such as the acetylcholine receptor and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). In order to investigate the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in myogenesis we have cultured myoblasts (C2C12) in the presence or absence of an exogenous ECM (Matrigel). In addition, we have induced differentiation of myoblasts in the presence or absence of Matrigel and/or chlorate, a specific inhibitor of proteoglycan sulfation. Our results indicated that the formation of fused myotubes and expression of AChE was stimulated by Matrigel. Treatment of myoblasts induced to differentiate with chlorate resulted in an inhibition of cell fusion and AChE activity. Chlorate treatment was also found to inhibit the deposition and assembly of ECM components such fibronectin and laminin. The expression of myogenin mRNA was observed when myoblasts were induced to differentiate, but was unaffected by the presence of Matrigel or by culture of the cells in the presence of chlorate. These results suggest that the expression of myogenin is independent of the presence of ECM, but that the presence of ECM is essential for the formation of myotubes and the expression of later muscle-specific gene products.

Behavioral Responses of Concholepas concholepas (Bruguière, 1789) Larvae to Natural and Artificial Settlement Cues and Microbial Films

The behavioral responses of veliger larvae of the gastropod Concholepas concholepas were studied in the presence of different natural and artificial settlement cues and microbial films. Early pre-competent larvae stopped swimming, sank (due to ciliary arrests, retraction of the velum into the shell, or both), and remained inactive on the substratum when exposed to conspecific mucus and hemolymph. In both cases the effect was time-dependent and the number of larvae showing these behaviors decreased over time. Larvae exposed to NH4Cl (ammonium ion) showed a similar time- and dose-dependent response. A positive and time-dependent response was also observed when larvae were exposed to different extracellular matrix (ECM) components (i.e., collagen, gelatin, and fibronectin) and sulfated polysaccharides (i.e., carrageenan, heparin, and chondroitin sulfate). In this case the larvae remained attached to the substratum. However, the effect of sulfated polysaccharides on C. concholepas larval behavior was faster than that observed with other ECM molecules. We also studied the responses of premetamorphic C. concholepas larvae exposed to different microbial films. In chemotaxis experiments with different films, with glass as the substratum, larvae showed a significant preference for multispecific and diatoms films. When shells of C. concholepas were used as the substratum, the preference for multispecific films was clear and significant. Likewise, larvae showed velar contractions in the presence of all the films tested. Larvae exposed to multispecific films and to the microalga Prasinocladus marinus showed an increased ciliar movement. The finding that mucus and hemolymph of conspecific adults and ECM molecules (mainly sulfated polysaccharides) induce the cessation of swimming of C. concholepas larvae suggests a possible role for cell-surface receptors in mediating the larval response of marine organisms. Likewise, the positive chemotaxis responses of C. concholepas larvae to different microbial films suggest that microorganisms may have a role in bringing larvae close to settlement inducers on the marine benthos.

Proteoglycans in skeletal muscle

1. Proteoglycans are macromolecules composed of a protein and one or more chains of sulfated carbohydrates, the glycosaminoglycans. Proteoglycans are found on the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix participating in the cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interaction. In this review I present the information accumulated in the past years regarding the presence, characteristics, localization, control of expression and alteration in some pathological states of skeletal muscle proteoglycans. 2. This review presents and discusses current information in this area and some projections for the future in four sections: first, the proteoglycans present in embryonic cells and cell lines from skeletal muscle. Second, the presence of proteoglycans in adult skeletal muscles. Third, the regulation of the expression of skeletal muscle proteoglycans, and fourth, skeletal muscle proteoglycans in pathological conditions.

A lipid-anchored heparan sulfate proteoglycan is present in the surface of differentiated skeletal muscle cells. Isolation and biochemical characterization

We have investigated the presence of hydrophobic membrane-associated heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) on the cell surface of differentiated skeletal muscle cells. A HSPG releasable by incubation with a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase c (PtdIns-PLC) was obtained. HSPG were also isolated from Triton X-100 extracts of the cells. The hydrodynamic characteristics of the PtdIns-PLC-releasable and detergent-extracted HSPG were indistinguishable. SDS/PAGE analysis of the PtdIns-PLC-releasable HSPG indicated a molecular mass of 250 kDa. Analysis of proteins immunoprecipitated by specific antibodies against a HSPG isolated from Schwann cells demonstrated that the antisera precipitated an intact HSPG that was present in the pool of proteins released by PtdIns-PLC and by Triton X-100 from [35S]sulfate labeled cells. Nitrous acid degradation of the immunoprecipitated proteins released by PtdIns-PLC from [35S]methionine labeled cells produced a single 67-kDa core protein. Analysis of hydrophobicity of the purified HSPG revealed that only the HSPG obtained from the detergent extract were able to be incorporated into the liposomes whereas the PtdIns-PLC-released HSPG was not. Immunocytolocalization analysis of the differentiated cells indicated that the PtdIns-PLC-releasable HSPG was located on the cell surface. Prior incubation of the cells with PtdIns-PLC significantly reduced the surface staining. Analysis of skeletal-muscle sections of adult rat skeletal muscles indicated that this HSPG localized exclusively at the endomysium. This localization suggest that these HSPG may be acting as a cell receptor for extracellular-matrix (ECM) components.

Extracellular matrix components and amyloid in neuritic plaques of Alzheimer's disease

1. There has been an enormous amount of information relating to the molecular components involved in Alzheimer's disease. 2. Recently some attention has been focused on the extracellular matrix (ECM) components present in the brain amyloid deposits. 3. Here we discuss, the direct involvement of ECM constituents such as laminin, collagen type IV, fibronectin, proteoglycans (PGs) and basic fibroblast growth factor in the formation of neuritic plaques. 4. We suggest that PGs act as nucleating agents in the formation of the diffuse amyloid deposits that precede the formation of the neuritic plaque in the brain of patients affected with Alzheimer's disease.

Decorin is specifically solubilized by heparin from the extracellular matrix of rat skeletal muscles

We have previously communicated that heparin co-solubilizes the asymmetric form of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and a dermatan sulfate proteoglycan from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of rat skeletal muscles. In this report we unequivocally demonstrate by biochemical and immunological analyses that the proteoglycan that is solubilized by heparin from rat skeletal muscle ECM corresponds to decorin. These results support the concept for the role of decorin in the ECM organization.

Isolation and partial characterization of cholesterol pronucleating hydrophobic glycoproteins associated to native biliary vesicles

Cholesterol is transported both in unilamellar phosphatidylcholine vesicles and in bile salts-mixed micelles in native bile. The vesicular carrier of biliary lipids apparently has a well defined protein profile with a potent cholesterol crystallization-promoting activity. This study was conducted to identify and further characterize these vesicular proteins and to test the effect of isolated vesicular proteins on the cholesterol crystal formation in supersaturated model bile. The results confirmed that proteins are a constant component of highly purified biliary vesicles both in hepatic and gallbladder bile. Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG and IgM) and albumin are associated to the purified hepatic biliary vesicles. Furthermore, four different hydrophobic glycoproteins with a molecular mass of 130, 114, 86, and 62-67 kDa were isolated. These glycoproteins showed no reactivity with anti-human whole serum or anti-immunoglobulin antibodies, suggesting that these proteins are biliary-specific. Isolated 130, 114 and 62-67 kDa vesicular glycoproteins significantly decreased the cholesterol nucleation time in artificial model bile. We concluded that some, but not all, vesicular-bound hydrophobic glycoproteins have cholesterol pronucleating activity and they may be involved in the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstone disease.

A high molecular weight proteoglycan is differentially expressed during development of the mollusc Concholepas concholepas (Mollusca; Gastropoda; Muricidae)

Incorporation of radioactive sulfate to hatched veliger larvae of the gastropod muricid Concholepas concholepas indicated that over 87% of the sulfated macromolecules were found in the detergent insoluble fraction, rich in extracellular matrix (ECM) components. The sulfated material was solubilized with guanidine salt followed by urea dialysis and fractionated by DEAE-Sephacel chromatography. Three sulfated compounds eluting at 0.7, 1.1, and 3.0 M NaCl, called peaks I, II, and III, respectively, were obtained. The sulfated compound present in peak I was degraded by pronase or sodium alkaline treatment to a small sulfated resistant material, suggesting the presence of a proteoglycan (PG). Filtration analysis on Sephacryl S-500 and SDS-PAGE of the intact PG indicates that it has a high molecular weight (360,000 to over 1 x 10(6)). Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against this PG were produced. The specificity of one mAb, the 6H2, was demonstrated by size chromatography and ELISA analysis. The epitope recognized by this mAb seems to be present in the core protein of the PG. Both the extent of sulfation and the presence of different sulfated species of PGs were evaluated during the development of this mollusc. A twelvefold increase in the incorporation of sulfate to PGs per milligram of protein was found in veliger larvae compared to blastula-glastula stages. This change correlated well with the differential expression of the sulfated PG present in peak I. Biochemical and immunological analysis indicate that high levels of this PG are found in veliger and trocophore larvae in comparison with blastula-gastrula and early juveniles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Axonal sprouting induced in the sciatic nerve by the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and other antiproteases

Protease inhibition is the mechanism by which some trophic factors promote the extension of neurites. In the rat sciatic nerve, we assessed the ability to induce sprouts of the APP isoform that embodies the Kunitz antiprotease domain and other antiproteases. With the electron microscope, axonal sprouts were found when antiproteases were supplied but not after administration of inactive substances. We conclude that axons have a drive to sprout which can be released by the unbalance of an extracellular protease-antiprotease system. We propose that this system is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

Decorin, a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate proteoglycan is under neural control in rat skeletal muscle

Proteoglycans (PGs) are abundant components of the extracellular matrices (ECM) of skeletal muscle. We have previously found that the synthesis of skeletal muscle PGs present at the ECM increase after denervation. The experiments reported here were undertaken to identify which PG(s) increase after denervation of rat leg muscles. Incorporation of radioactive sulfate demonstrated the presence of a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate PG of 70-90 kDa in the skeletal muscle ECM, which increased after denervation. The PG has a core protein of 39-45 kDa after treatment with chondroitinase ABC. Antibodies against rat decorin, a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate PG synthesized by various cell types, specifically immunoprecipitated this PG from a mixture of PGs. Immunocytolocalization of this PG indicated that the chondroitin/dermatan sulfate PG accumulates at the perimysium of skeletal muscle after denervation. Finally, Northern blot analysis indicated an increase of muscle transcripts for decorin after denervation. The data reported here suggest that a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate PG present at the skeletal muscle ECM, very similar if not identical to decorin, increases after denervation.

Isolation of proteoglycans synthesized by rat heart: evidence for the presence of several distinct forms

1. The proteoglycans (Ps) synthesized by auricle and ventricle from adult rat heart were studied. 2. Auricle tissue incorporated over two times radioactive sulfate compared to ventricle tissue and the Ps were mainly found in the detergent insoluble fraction. 3. The Ps from both tissues were isolated by ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel, followed by gel filtration on Sepharose CL-6B and SDS-PAGE electrophoresis. 4. Enzymatic and chemical degradation of these Ps suggest that at least three and probably four different species of Ps can be observed in heart tissue. 4. A high molecular weight chondroitin sulfate-P, a high molecular weight heparan sulfate-P, a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate-P of 240-200 kDa and a dermatan sulfate of 115 kDa. 5. This latter P was specifically immunoprecipitated using rat decorin antiserum.

Isolation and purification of human biliary vesicles with potent cholesterol-nucleation-promoting activity

1. Cholesterol nucleation is a critical step in the formation of cholesterol gallstones. This nucleation takes place after aggregation and fusion of cholesterol-rich biliary vesicles, a process probably modulated by biliary proteins. The present study was conducted to identify specific proteins associated with native cholesterol-rich biliary vesicles and to explore their effect on the cholesterol-nucleation time of supersaturated artificial bile. 2. Hepatic bile was obtained from six patients with cholesterol gallstone disease. Biliary vesicles were isolated by ultracentrifugation and were purified by gel filtration chromatography. A small amount of protein (less than 1% by weight) remained associated with the purified cholesterol-rich biliary vesicles. The electrophoretic profile of these proteins was remarkably similar in all six patients, showing the presence of at least six polypeptides (of molecular mass from 52 to 200 kDa), five of them having carbohydrate residues (except the 52 kDa one). The effect of reconstituted biliary vesicle solutions, containing their specific vesicular proteins, on cholesterol-nucleation time was studied by mixing the vesicle solution with artificial supersaturated bile. A potent cholesterol-pronucleating activity, reflected in a 20-70% reduction in nucleation time, was present in the biliary vesicle solutions compared with control solutions having a similar lipid composition. The pronucleating activity disappeared on heating and was not detected in the micellar fraction containing the major proportion of biliary proteins. 3. These results indicate that cholesterol-rich biliary vesicles containing a unique and defined glycoprotein profile can be isolated and purified from human hepatic bile. The potent cholesterol-pronucleating activity of the biliary vesicles from patients with gallstones was unrelated to their lipid composition or cholesterol content.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The proteoglycan decorin is synthesized and secreted by differentiated myotubes

Proteoglycans (PGs) are important components of the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (ECM). Skeletal muscles are composed of muscle fibers and mononucleated cells. The latter are known to synthesize and secrete several PGs. Rat skeletal muscle ECM contains a chondrotin/dermatan sulfate PG which was immunoprecipitated by antibodies against rat decorin. The synthesis and secretion of PGs by a mouse cell line was analyzed during in vitro differentiation. PGs were characterized by biochemical and immunological techniques including immunocytolocalization experiments. At least three different PGs are synthesized and secreted by differentiated myotubes: a 220 to 460 kDa heparan sulfate, a 250 to 310 kDa chondroitin/dermatan sulfate, and a 75 to 130 kDa chondroitin/dermatan sulfate. This latter PG was specifically immunoprecipitated with antibodies against rat fibroblast decorin. Indirect immunocytolocalization analysis revealed that decorin was localized inside the cells, with a strong reaction around the nuclei. During differentiation the relative proportions of some PGs changed. Thus, a decrease in the relative proportion of the heparan sulfate PG was observed, whereas a significant increase in the relative proportion of decorin was detected. No change in the large chondroitin/dermatan PG was seen during the differentiation process. The possible cell sources of decorin found in rat skeletal muscle ECM are discussed.

Isolation and characterization of rat skeletal muscle proteoglycan decorin and comparison with the human fibroblast decorin

1. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of rat skeletal muscle contains several proteoglycans (PGs). The more abundant correspond to a chondroitin/dermatan sulfate PG or decorin. 2. Decorin isolated from rat skeletal muscle ECM has a smaller molecular size than human fibroblast decorin. 3. The difference in size is mainly due to the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chain length rather than the core protein size. 4. Peptide analysis of trypsin treated decorins shows at least three peptides with the same electrophoretic mobility.

Motor nerve regulates muscle extracellular matrix proteoglycan expression

Denervation of rat leg muscles caused a 2-3-fold increase in 35S-sulfate and 3H-glucosamine incorporation into proteoglycans of the muscle extracellular matrix. The size of the proteoglycans and the glycosaminoglycan chain length and degree of sulfation were unchanged. Because the rate of degradation of proteoglycans was also unchanged by denervation, we infer that denervation increases proteoglycan synthesis. Muscle reinnervation restored the original rate of synthesis of proteoglycans. Paralysis of innervated muscle caused increased incorporation of sulfate comparable to that seen in denervation. Thus motor nerve activity appears to regulate the level of proteoglycans in the muscle extracellular matrix.

[Biotechnological aspects in "loco" larvae]

The biology of planktotrophic larvae of Concholepas concholepas is the main bottleneck towards developing biotechnologies to rear this muricid. Data concerning planktonic larvae development, diets and environmental signals triggering larval settlement and recruitment is scarce. We have begun the study of the molecular and cell biology of embryos, larvae and recruits having as a final goal, the development of appropriate biotechnologies to rear this gastropod. First, an inverse ratio between BuChE and AChE enzyme activities was established. This ratio may be a precise developmental marker for this species. Second, for the first time a phosphoinositide related regulatory pathway is reported in a muricid, opening a new approach to the biotechnological management of larvae. Third, the relation between sulfate in sea water and larval motility was studied. Concentrations below 125 microM sulfate decreases larval motility. The sulfate is incorporated in proteoglycans which participate in different developmental phenomena. Lastly, a genomic Concholepas concholepas DNA sequence, similar to that of a human growth hormone probe was detected. This is very interesting since growth factors are key molecules during development, growth and are involved in food conversion rates in fish and also, in a variety of marine invertebrates.

Differential association and distribution of acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterases within rat liver subcellular organelles

Rat liver cholinesterases were found to share properties and characteristics with those expressed in cholinergic tissues. The distribution and presence of different molecular forms of cholinesterases in different subcellular organelles of rat liver were studied. The rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus were enriched in the G4 molecular form of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (relative to the G2 molecular form), while the inverse was found in the plasma membrane. The interaction of these molecular forms of AChE with the Golgi membrane was studied in detail. Approximately one-half of the G4 form was free within the lumen while the remainder was an intrinsic membrane protein; all the G2 molecular form was anchored to the membrane via phosphatidylinositol. Only the G1 and G2 molecular forms of butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) were found in the above subcellular organelles; both molecular forms were soluble within the lumen of Golgi vesicles. These results indicate that rat liver expresses several molecular forms of AChE which have multiple interactions with membranes and that liver is unlikely to be the source of the G4 form of BuChE present in high concentration in the plasma.

Differential association of rat liver heparan sulfate proteoglycans in membranes of the Golgi apparatus and the plasma membrane

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) of rat liver are associated with the plasma membrane in a hydrophobic intrinsic and a hydrophilic extrinsic form. We were interested in determining whether or not these two forms could be detected in the Golgi apparatus, the subcellular site of addition of oligosaccharides and sulfate to HSPG. In vivo and in vitro radiolabeled HSPG from rat liver Golgi apparatus membranes could only be solubilized with detergents that disrupt the membrane lipid bilayer, suggesting that they are solely associated via hydrophobic interactions. Both forms of HSPG were detected in plasma membranes of rat liver and isolated rat hepatocytes. The detergent-solubilized HSPG bound to octyl-Sepharose columns, whereas the hydrophilic form did not; this latter form, however, was released from the membrane by heparin. The hydrophobic anchor of HSPG in the Golgi and plasma membranes was insensitive to treatment with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C under conditions in which alkaline phosphatase was sensitive; this suggests that the hydrophobic anchor of HSPG is the core protein itself. Preliminary experiments suggest that the subcellular site of processing of the hydrophobic to the hydrophilic form of HSPG is the plasma membrane. A specific processing activity, probably a protease of the plasma membrane not present in serum or the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, converted hydrophobic HSPG of the Golgi membrane to the hydrophilic form. In addition, pulse-chase experiments with [35S]Na2SO4 in rats demonstrated that at short times, the bulk of the radiolabeled cellular HSPG was in the Golgi apparatus; later on, the bulk of the radioactivity was found in the plasma membrane, the only subcellular site where the hydrophilic form of HSPG was detected.

Different membrane-bound forms of acetylcholinesterase are present at the cell surface of hepatocytes

In the present study we have determinated the acetylcholinesterase molecular forms present in rat liver hepatocytes; we have also studied the association of acetylcholinesterase with the cell surface of the hepatocytes. Subcellular fractionation indicated that rough endoplasmic reticulum and plasma-membrane-enriched fractions contains G4 and G2 acetylcholinesterase forms bound to membranes. Hepatocytes incubated with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C released about 70% of the surface acetylcholinesterase. Sedimentation analysis showed that all the solubilized acetylcholinesterase activity comes exclusively from a G2 dimer. The G4 hydrophobic form of acetylcholinesterase accounts for the additional cell-surface activity. The existence of these two forms of acetylcholinesterase on the surface of hepatocytes was further established by analyzing the phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C sensitivity of the acetylcholinesterase molecular forms present in isolated rat liver plasma membranes.

Purification of rat liver N-heparan-sulfate sulfotransferase

N-Heparan-sulfate sulfotransferase catalyzes the transfer of sulfate from 3'-phosphoadenilyl sulfate to the nitrogen of glucosamine in heparan sulfate. This reaction is an obligatory step for subsequent epimerization of D-glucuronic to L-iduronic acid and of O-sulfation of the sugar chains. We have purified this sulfotransferase from rat liver membranes to apparent homogeneity using a combination of conventional and affinity chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel, heparin-agarose, 3',5'-ADP-agarose, wheat germ-Sepharose, and finally a glycerol gradient. The pure enzyme is a glycoprotein with an apparent molecular weight of 97,000. It was enriched in specific activity 65,000-fold over the homogenate. The recovery of activity was 4% of that of the homogenate. Preliminary enzymatic characterization of the purified sulfotransferase indicates a high degree of substrate specificity. Transfer of sulfate occurs to heparan sulfate, N-heparan sulfate, and N-desulfated heparin, but not to N-acetylated heparan sulfate, N-acetylated heparin, chondroitin, chondroitin sulfate, and tyrosine-containing tripeptides.

Isolation of the heparan sulfate proteoglycans from the extracellular matrix of rat skeletal muscle

We have previously shown that asymmetric collagen-tailed acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is anchored to the extracellular matrix (ECM) by heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Here we present our studies on the characterization of such PGs from the ECM of rat skeletal muscles. After radiolabeling with 35SO4 for 24h, PGs were extracted from the muscle ECM with 4.0 M guanidine-HCl containing protease inhibitors. PGs were subsequently isolated using sequential DEAE-Sephacel chromatography, digestion with chondroitinase ABC, and Sepharose CL-4B. Two different hydrodynamic size species of HSPGs were found. One type had a Mr of 4-6 X 10(5) (Kav = 0.25) as estimated by gel chromatography in the presence of 1% SDS and accounted for 75% of the total HSPGs. The other HSPG had a Mr 1.5-2.5 X 10(5) (Kav = 0.41). The glycosaminoglycan (GAG) side chains (Mr 20,000 and 12,000) were found composed only of heparan sulfate as determined by nitrous acid oxidation and heparitinase treatment. The large-sized HSPG, which is concentrated in synaptic regions, contains only GAG chains of Mr 20,000, suggesting that each HSPG contains only one kind of heparan sulfate chain in its structure. Our results definitively establish by biochemical criteria that the basement membrane of mammalian skeletal muscle contains HSPGs, the likely matrix receptor for the immobilization of the asymmetric collagen-tailed AChE at the neuromuscular junction.

Co-solubilization of asymmetric acetylcholinesterase and dermatan sulfate proteoglycan from the extracellular matrix of rat skeletal muscles

We have previously communicated that heparin released asymmetric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from cholinergic synapses. Here we report studies showing that heparin, besides releasing asymmetric AChE from the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (ECM), specifically solubilizes a dermatan sulfate proteoglycan (DSPG) which accounts for more than 95% of the 35S-released material. The co-solubilization of AChE and the proteoglycan opens up the possibility that both macromolecules could be involved in the formation of the soluble AChE complex observed after incubation of muscle homogenate with heparin. Our results suggest a possible association between asymmetric AChE and DSPG at the muscle ECM, moreover this work is the first report of the existence of DSPG at the skeletal muscle cell surface.

Glycosaminoglycan composition of electric organ basement membranes

The basement membranes of the innervated surface of the electric organ of Discopyge tschudii present a high concentration of mucopolysaccharides as revealed by intense ruthenium red-positive reaction. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) were isolated and characterized from these pure basement membranes by using a combination of agarose gel electrophoresis and enzymatic degradation with specific enzymes. The isolated basement membrane showed a high concentration of GAGs (130 mg/g of dry tissue); of this amount 49% was hyaluronic acid, 24% was chondroitin-6-sulfate, 12% was heparan sulfate, and 14% was dermatan sulfate. Controlled digestion with heparinase and heparitinases I and II was used to study the structural features of the heparan sulfate. Four unsaturated disaccharide units were found in the heparan sulfate: disulfated, N-sulfated, N-acetylated, and N-acetylated O-sulfated disaccharides. The disaccharide units of the cholinergic heparan sulfate present a high amount of disulfated disaccharides and a low amount of N-acetylated O-sulfated disaccharides. The N-sulfated disaccharides, in contrast to the N-acetylated ones, were found through all the structure of the cholinergic heparan sulfate. Finally our work shows for the first time the presence of dermatan sulfate in the basal lamina of the electric organ.

The synaptic form of acetylcholinesterase binds to cell-surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans

We have previously communicated that heparan sulfate and heparin released 16S acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from cholinergic synapses. These experiments suggest that heparan-like molecules are involved in the anchorage of AChE to the neuromuscular junction. In order to prove the in vivo interaction between the 16S AChE and heparan sulfate residues, the binding of exogenously added 16S enzyme to intact cells rich in cell-surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans was examined; 16S AChE form was shown to bind to intact endothelial cells in a specific, time-dependent, saturable fashion. A single class of binding sites was involved and at saturation around 2.52 X 10(11) molecules of 16S AChE/cm2 were bound. Fifty percent of the binding of the 16S AChE was blocked by heparan sulfate, heparin, or previous treatment of the cell with heparitinase. The binding was reversed by exogenous heparin, but not by chondroitin sulfate or hyaluronic acid. Our results demonstrate that the synaptic form of AChE binds to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the surface of the cell.

Anchorage of collagen-tailed acetylcholinesterase to the extracellular matrix is mediated by heparan sulfate proteoglycans

Heparan sulfate and heparin, two sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), extracted collagen-tailed acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the electric organ of Discopyge tschudii. The effect of heparan sulfate and heparin was abolished by protamine; other GAGs could not extract the esterase. The solubilization of the asymmetric AChE apparently occurs through the formation of a soluble AChE-GAG complex of 30S. Heparitinase treatment but not chondroitinase ABC treatment of the ECM released asymmetric AChE forms. This provides direct evidence for the vivo interaction between asymmetric AChE and heparan sulfate residues of the ECM. Biochemical analysis of the electric organ ECM showed that sulfated GAGs bound to proteoglycans account for 5% of the total basal lamina. Approximately 20% of the total GAGs were susceptible to heparitinase or nitrous acid oxidation which degrades specifically heparan sulfates, and approximately 80% were susceptible to digestion with chondroitinase ABC, which degrades chondroitin-4 and -6 sulfates and dermatan sulfate. Our experiments provide evidence that asymmetric AChE and carbohydrate components of proteoglycans are associated in the ECM; they also indicate that a heparan sulfate proteoglycan is involved in the anchorage of the collagen-tailed AChE to the synaptic basal lamina.

Binding of the asymmetric forms of acetylcholinesterase to heparin

The interaction between acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7) and heparin, a sulphated glycosaminoglycan, was studied by affinity chromatography. A specific binding of the asymmetric acetylcholinesterase to an agarose gel containing covalently bound heparin was demonstrated. This interaction required an intact collagenous tail, shown by the fact that the binding is abolished by pretreatment with collagenase. The globular forms did not bind to the column. Both total and intracellular asymmetric acetylcholinesterase forms isolated from the endplate region of the rat diaphragm muscle showed higher affinity for the heparin than did the enzyme from the non-endplate region. The binding to the resin was destabilized with 0.55 M-NaCl, and, among the various glycosaminoglycans tested, only heparin was able to displace the acetylcholinesterase bound to the column. Our results added further support to the concept that the asymmetric acetylcholinesterase forms are immobilized on the synaptic basal lamina via interactions with heparin-like molecules, probably related to heparan sulphate proteoglycans.

Orientation and role of nucleosidediphosphatase and 5'-nucleotidase in Golgi vesicles from rat liver

The fate of UDP formed during the galactosylation of added N-acetylglucosamine in Golgi vesicles isolated from rat liver using D2O-sucrose gradients has been determined. UDP-Gal labeled with [14C]uracil was used, and the products of the reaction were separated and quantitated by using high-pressure liquid chromatography. [14C]Uridine rather than [14C]UDP or [14C]UMP was found to accumulate, indicating the presence of both UDPase and UMPase activities in the Golgi. Golgi vesicles were shown to contain a nucleosidediphosphatase activity that is membrane bound. It appears to be located on the luminal face of the Golgi since it is activated 3-5-fold by detergents and 4-fold by treatment of the vesicles with Filipin. We have shown previously that Filipin disrupts the Golgi but does not solubilize membrane-bound enzymes. The nucleosidediphosphatase of the Golgi differs from that present in rough endoplasmic reticulum in its absolute requirement for Ca2+ for activity and in its substrate specificity that is higher for UDP than for IDP. Golgi vesicles also contain UMPase activity that is stimulated only 2-fold by detergents or Filipin. Concanavalin A inhibits this activity about 80% in both intact and detergent-treated vesicles. The Golgi UMPase is thus probably identical with 5'-nucleotidase. These results are consistent with histochemical evidence from other laboratories that indicate that 5'-nucleotidase is present on both sides of liver Golgi membranes. In the presence of concanavalin A and N-acetylglucosamine, intact Golgi vesicles were found to convert UDP-Gal to UMP. These findings indicate that UDP formed by galactosyltransferase in the lumen of the vesicles is rapidly converted to UMP by UDPase in the lumen but that UMP moves rapidly out of the lumen of the Golgi and is broken down to uridine by 5'-nucleotidase on the cytoplasmic side of the vesicles.