Changes of atrial natriuretic peptide in rat supraoptic neurones during pregnancy

To better understand the role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in the central regulation of hydro-mineral homeostasis, we analysed its expression in rat hypothalamic neurones during gestation and postpartum. These physiological events are characterized by opposing body fluid regulations. Quantitative in situ hybridization analysis showed that starting from mid-pregnancy, ANP mRNA declined in neurones of the preoptic area, periventricular area, lateral hypothalamus and endorhinal nucleus, and remained low at postpartum. By contrast, magnocellular cells in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) showed four- and 10-fold more ANP mRNA in sections from preterm and postpartum rats, respectively, compared to nonpregnant controls (P < 0.001). Oxytocin mRNA paralleled ANP mRNA expression in the SON, whereas vasopressin mRNA rose in early pregnancy and declined thereafter. High hypothalamic ANP concentration at day 21 of gestation versus nonpregnant rats (3.1 +/- 0.5 versus 1.8 +/- 0.4 ng/mg protein, P < 0.05) suggested that ANP transcript accumulation in the SON is associated with increased utilization of the peptide. The elevation of hypothalamic ANP (two-fold) and ANP receptors by treatment of ovariectomized rats with 17beta-oestradiol (25 micro g/rat, 10 days) was abolished by coadministration of progesterone. Thus, we concluded that elevated oestradiol at term stimulates ANP synthesis and paracrine ANP activation in the hypothalamus. Overall, we provide experimental, anatomical and molecular evidence for ANP regulation in hypothalamic neurones at preterm and after 17beta-oestradiol stimulation. Our study supports the concept that ANP expressed in the SON acts as a peptidergic neurotransmitter involved in water and salt regulation during pregnancy and postpartum.

Selective expression of the proprotein convertases furin, pc5, and pc7 in proliferating vascular smooth muscle cells of the rat aorta in vitro

The aim of this study was to investigate whether transformation of quiescent vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) into proliferating secretory cells is accompanied by an expression of processing enzymes that activate de novo-synthesized growth factors. Three enzymes belonging to the family of the kexin/subtilisin-like mammalian proprotein convertases (PCs), furin, PC5, and PC7, were found to be upregulated after balloon denudation in vivo. To determine their importance in these cell processes, we investigated their gene regulation using a short-term organ culture system. After incubation of rat aorta for 4 and 24 hr in serum-free medium, we demonstrated a significant induction of VSMC proliferation. The affected subset of VSMCs, positive for alpha-smooth muscle actin, also expressed proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Our results revealed a parallel upregulation of furin, PC5, and PC7 in PCNA-immunolabeled cells. As a substrate model for comparison with PCs we used nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is known to be activated by PCs. As shown by Northern blotting analysis, NGF mRNA concentration was significantly increased in cultured explants. NGF was released into the culture medium. In conclusion, both PCs and NGF are coordinately modulated on induction of VSMC proliferation.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor superinduction parallels anti-epileptic--neuroprotective treatment in the pilocarpine epilepsy model

Antiepileptic drugs provide neuroprotection in several animal models of brain damage, including those induced by status epilepticus (SE). The mechanisms involved in this action are unknown, but neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may play a role. In this study we investigated the changes in BDNF levels in rats in which SE had been induced by pilocarpine injection (400 mg/kg i.p.) and continued for several hours (unprotected group). In other animals (protected groups), SE was suppressed after 30 min by intraperitoneal injection of either diazepam (10 mg/kg) + pentobarbital (30 mg/kg) or paraldehyde (0.3 mg/kg). In diazepam + pentobarbital-treated rats the hippocampal damage caused by SE was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than in unprotected animals. In addition, 2 and 24 h after pilocarpine injection, the levels of BDNF mRNA were moderately increased in the unprotected group, but 'superinduced' in protected animals, especially in the neocortex and hippocampus. A time-dependent increase in BDNF immunoreactivity was also found by western blot analysis in rats treated with diazepam + pentobarbital. In contrast, a decrease of BDNF immunoreactivity occurred in the unprotected group. In conclusion, these results show that neuroprotection induced by anti-epileptic drugs in pilocarpine-treated rats is accompanied by strong potentiation of BDNF synthesis in brain regions involved in SE.

Regional and subunit-specific downregulation of acid-sensing ion channels in the pilocarpine model of epilepsy

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) constitute a recently discovered family of excitatory cation channels, structurally related to the superfamily of degenerin/epithelial sodium channels. ASIC1b and ASIC3 are highly expressed in primary sensory neurons and are thought to play a role in pain transmission related to acidosis. ASIC1a, ASIC2a, and ASIC2b are also distributed in the central nervous system where their function remains unclear. We investigated here the regulation of their expression during status epilepticus (SE), a condition in which neuronal overexcitation leads to acidosis. In animals treated with pilocarpine (380 mg/kg) to induce SE, we observed a marked decrease of ASIC2b mRNA levels in all hippocampal areas and of ASIC1a mRNA levels in the CA1-2 fields. These changes were also observed after protective treatment from neuronal cell death with diazepam (10 mg/kg) and pentobarbital (30 mg/kg). These findings suggest a key role of channels containing ASIC1a and ASIC2b subunits in both normal and pathological activity of hippocampus.

Localization of retinal dehydrogenase type 1 in the stomach and intestine

Retinal dehydrogenase type 1 (RALDH1) is involved in the biosynthesis of retinoic acid (RA), a modulator of gene expression and cell differentiation. RALDH1 mRNA transcripts are present in the stomach and small intestine, and their expression is regulated by vitamin A status. In situ hybridization demonstrated RALDH1 mRNA expression in epithelial cells of the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Strong hybridization was also seen in the lamina propria of small intestinal mucosa and the smooth muscle layer of the small and large intestines. Immunocytochemical localization revealed RALDH1 staining in parietal cells of the stomach and prismatic cells of the small and large intestines. The presence of RALDH1 protein was also detectable within supportive glial cells around neuronal fibers throughout the muscular layers of the stomach as well as the small and large intestines. These data suggest an important role for RALDH1 in generating RA needed for the differentiation of specific epithelial cells in the stomach and intestines.

Coordinated expression of beta-amyloid precursor protein and the putative beta-secretase BACE and alpha-secretase ADAM10 in mouse and human brain

To define the enzymes involved in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease, we compared in mouse and human brain the mRNA levels and cellular localization of the ubiquitous beta-amyloid precursor protein (beta-APP) with those of the putative alpha-secretases ADAM10 and ADAM17 and the beta-secretases BACE and BACE2. In situ hybridization performed in mice during prenatal and postnatal development and in adulthood revealed the coexpression of beta-APP, BACE, and ADAM10. The patterns of BACE2 and ADAM17 only partially overlapped with that of beta-APP. beta-APP, BACE, and ADAM10 mRNAs have also been detected by northern blot in human brain cortex of normal subjects and in Alzheimer's disease subjects. In situ hybridization performed using combined biotin- and radiolabeled riboprobes provided evidence for the coexpression of beta-APP with BACE and ADAM10 in human cortical neurons. Our data provide cytochemical evidence supporting the role of ADAM10 and BACE as authentic alpha- and beta-secretases.

Developmental expression and tissue distribution of Phex protein: effect of the Hyp mutation and relationship to bone markers

Mutations in PHEX, a phosphate-regulating gene with homology to endopeptidases on the X chromosome, are responsible for X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH). The murine Hyp homologue has the phenotypic features of XLH and harbors a large deletion in the 3' region of the Phex gene. We characterized the developmental expression and tissue distribution of Phex protein, using a monoclonal antibody against human PHEX, examined the effect of the Hyp mutation on Phex expression, and compared neprilysin (NEP), osteocalcin, and parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTH/PTHrP) receptor gene expression in bone of normal and Hyp mice. Phex encodes a 100- to 105-kDa glycoprotein, which is present in bones and teeth of normal mice but not Hyp animals. These results were confirmed by in situ hybridization (ISH) and ribonuclease protection assay. Phex protein expression in femur and calvaria decreases with age, suggesting a correlation between Phex expression and bone formation. Immunohistochemical studies detected Phex protein in osteoblasts, osteocytes, and odontoblasts, but not in osteoblast precursors. In contrast to Phex, the abundance of NEP messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein is not significantly altered in Hyp bone. Similarly, osteocalcin and PTH/PTHrP receptor gene expression are not compromised in bone of Hyp mice. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that loss of Phex function affects the mineralizing activity of osteoblasts rather than their differentiation.

Cellular localization of neprilysin in mouse bone tissue and putative role in hydrolysis of osteogenic peptides

The regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast metabolism is mediated by both hormones and local bone peptide factors. Peptides and hormones are under control of membrane peptidases such as Neprilysin (NEP). NEP is a widely distributed cell-surface zinc-metallopeptidase that is involved in the regulation of several important physiological processes by controlling the half-life of bioactive peptides. Although NEP is known to be present in skeletal tissues, neither its cellular localization nor its function have been established. To address this question, we examined NEP distribution in bones of postnatal mouse. In situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry showed that NEP messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein are associated with bone-forming cells including presumptive osteoblast precursors, preosteoblasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. NEP levels in newborn and adult mice bones also were compared by immunoblotting. Higher amounts of NEP immunoreactivity were observed in newborn as compared with adult bones, suggesting a relationship between NEP expression and bone growth. To further explore this hypothesis, we monitored in vitro NEP proteolytic activity using a series of synthetic osteogenic peptides such as parathyroid hormone-related peptide 1-43 (PTHrP1-34), osteostatin (PTHrP107-139), osteogenic growth peptide (OGP), calcitonin, alpha-calcitonin gene-related peptide (alpha-CGRP), and PTH1-34. Except for PTH1-34, all peptides were found to be NEP substrates.

The potential role of the esophageal pre-epithelial barrier components in the maintenance of integrity of the esophageal mucosa in patients with endoscopically negative gastroesophageal reflux disease

OBJECTIVE

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) accompanied by erosive reflux esophagitis (RE) exhibit an impairment within the esophageal pre-epithelial barrier protective components that may facilitate the development and/or progression of the mucosal injury. Little is known, however, whether such impairment is a general phenomenon affecting all patients with GERD or whether this is a characteristic feature only of patients with erosive RE. We therefore studied the rate of secretion of esophageal inorganic and organic protective factors in patients with endoscopically negative [E (-)] GERD and compared these results with the corresponding values in asymptomatic volunteers (CTRL).

METHODS

The study was conducted on 33 white asymptomatic volunteers and 10 white patients with a long history of GERD confirmed by 24-h pH monitoring and a grossly negative upper endoscopy. Esophageal secretion was collected during mucosal exposure to NaCl, HCl, HC/pepsin and NaCl using the esophageal perfusion catheter. In collected samples all investigated parameters were measured.

RESULTS

The pH of esophageal secretion and its content of bicarbonate, EGF, and PGE2 in patients with E (-) GERD and asymptomatic volunteers were similar. Unexpectedly, the rate of esophageal glycoconjugate (predominantly mucin) secretion was significantly higher in patients with E (-) GERD than in controls during perfusion with HCl (p < 0.05). Furthermore, secretion of protein in patients with E (-) GERD was significantly higher than in the control group during the mucosal exposure to HCl/Pepsin (p < 0.05). The nonbicarbonate buffer secretion during perfusion with HCl and HCl/Pepsin as well as the rate of esophageal TGFalpha output during infusion of final saline in patients with E (-) GERD were significantly lower than in CTRL group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that patients with E (-) GERD have an esophageal secretory potential, in terms of glycoconjugate and protein, higher than that in asymptomatic controls. This phenomenon in patients with E (-) GERD may, by enhancing the quantity of the esophageal pre-epithelial barrier, help to prevent the development of erosive esophagitis. A significantly lower esophageal secretory response in patients with E (-) GERD in terms of nonbicarbonate buffers and TGFalpha may facilitate the development of GERD symptoms and histological changes of GERD, respectively.

Molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of a new mouse testis soluble-zinc-metallopeptidase of the neprilysin family

Because of their roles in controlling the activity of several bio-active peptides, members of the neprilysin family of zinc metallopeptidases have been identified as putative targets for the design of therapeutic agents. Presently, six members have been reported, these are: neprilysin, endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE)-1 and ECE-2, the Kell blood group protein, PHEX (product of the phosphate-regulating gene with homologies to endopeptidase on the X chromosome) and X-converting enzyme (XCE). In order to identify new members of this important family of peptidases, we designed a reverse transcriptase-PCR strategy based on conserved amino acid sequences of neprilysin, ECE-1 and PHEX. We now report the cloning from mouse testis of a novel neprilysin-like peptidase that we called NL1. NL1 is a glycoprotein that, among the members of the family, shows the strongest sequence identity with neprilysin. However, in contrast with neprilysin and other members of the family which are type II integral membrane proteins, NL1 was secreted when expressed in cultured mammalian cells, likely due to cleavage by a subtilisin-like convertase at a furin-like site located 22 amino acid residues in the C-terminus of the transmembrane domain. The recombinant enzyme exhibited neprilysin-like peptidase activity and was efficiently inhibited by phosphoramidon and thiorphan, two inhibitors of neprilysin. Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization showed that NL1 mRNA was found predominantly in testis, specifically in round and elongated spermatids. This distribution of NL1 mRNA suggests that it could be involved in sperm formation or other processes related to fertility.

Study of salivary response to continuous infusion of cerulein and secretin in healthy subjects

OBJECTIVE

The effects of intravenous infusion of cerulein and secretin on the secretion and biochemical composition of whole saliva in humans were studied.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 33 subjects were divided into 3 groups, which underwent intravenous infusion with saline solution (NaCl 0.15 mol/L(-1)); saline solution, cerulein (1.25 x 10(-3) microg kg(-1) min(-1)), and cerulein supplemented with secretin (2.5 x 10(-2) clinical units kg(-1) min(-1)); and saline solution, secretin (2.5 x 10(-2) clinical units kg(-1) min(-1)), and secretin supplemented with cerulein (1.25 x 10(-3) microg kg(-1) min(-1)).

RESULTS

Cerulein reduced salivary flow rate, bicarbonate concentration and output, and protein output and increased amylase activity. The inhibitory effect of cerulein on salivary flow rate and bicarbonate concentration and output prevailed when an infusion of cerulein was supplemented with secretin. Cerulein and secretin acting together increased protein concentration. Secretin alone decreased salivary flow rate and bicarbonate concentration, whereas secretin supplemented with cerulein not only decreased salivary flow rate, bicarbonate concentration, and bicarbonate output but also increased protein concentration.

CONCLUSION

The effect of secretin and cerulein on salivary secretion and its composition is quite different from that observed in the pancreas.

The subtilisin/kexin family of precursor convertases. Emphasis on PC1, PC2/7B2, POMC and the novel enzyme SKI-1

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a precursor to various, bioactive peptides including ACTH, beta LPH, alpha MSH, and beta endorphin (beta END). Processing of POMC at dibasic residues is tissue-specific and is performed by either PC1 alone (resulting in ACTH and beta LPH, anterior pituitary corticotrophes) or by a combination of PC1 and PC2 (yielding alpha MSH and beta END, pituitary neurointermediate lobe and hypothalamus). The PC2-specific binding protein 7B2 is intimately involved in the zymogen activation of proPC2 into PC2. Structure-function studies of these enzymes demonstrated the presence of N- and C-terminal domains, as well as specific amino acids within the catalytic segment that influence the degree of activity of each enzyme and the interaction of PC2 with 7B2. The tissue distribution, plasticity of expression, and the multiple precursors that are differentially cleaved by PC1 and/or PC2, predict a wide array of combinatorial activities of these convertases within the endocrine and neuroendocrine system. The phenotypic consequences of the absence of genetic expression of either PC1 or PC2 are now explored using knockout mice and in human patients suffering from obesity and diabetes.

[The role of selected serologic markers in the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis]

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a progressive inflammatory liver disease characterized by specific duration of symptoms (above 6 months), 3- to 10-fold elevation in serum aminotransferase activities, 2-fold elevation in gamma-globulin, high titers (above 1:40) of circulating autoantibodies. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), smooth muscle antibodies (SMA), and antibodies to liver/kidney microsome type 1 (anti-LKM1) are the commonly available markers of AIH. SMA and ANA lack disease specificity and they are present commonly in different liver diseases. Anti-LKM1 usually connote a type 2 form of AIH which involves children and responds to corticosteroid therapy. Other autoantibodies, such as those against actin (SMA-AA), the liver-cytosolic antigen (anti-LC1), the liver-specific membrane lipoprotein (anti-LPS), asialoglycoprotein receptor (anti-ASGPR), have greater disease specificity but less availability.

Influence of secretin and caerulein on acid phosphatase activity in human saliva

Experimental studies have demonstrated a structural and functional correlation between the pancreas and salivary glands. Therefore, one may suppose that caerulein plus secretin, used in functional exploration of the exocrine pancreas, could exert an influence on acid phosphatase activity (AcP) and its isoenzymes (tartrate sensitive-TsAcP, tartrate resistant-TRAP acid phosphatases) in whole saliva in humans. The current study was conducted in 14 asymptomatic volunteers (six woman and eight men, mean age 34, range 27-45). Salivary secretions were collected under basal conditions (intravenous infusion of 0.15 mol l-1 NaCl) and during intravenous infusion of secretin plus caerulein at different doses. Stimulation with secretin (50 mKE kg-1 min-1) and caerulein (2.5 ng kg-1 min-1) resulted in a marked and rapid decrease of salivary flow rate. TRAP activity decreased during the first 20 min of hormonal infusion (1.09 +/- 0.19 mU ml-1 vs. 1.93 +/- 0.18 mU ml-1, 1.16 +/- 0.12 mU ml-1 vs. 1.86 +/- 0.17 mU ml-1, p < 0.05). AcP and TsAcP activity during intravenous infusion of secretin plus caerulein remained unchanged. These results point to a wider than expected participation of the digestive system in hormonal control of biochemical processes taking place inside the oral cavity.

Mammalian subtilisin/kexin isozyme SKI-1: A widely expressed proprotein convertase with a unique cleavage specificity and cellular localization

Using reverse transcriptase-PCR and degenerate oligonucleotides derived from the active-site residues of subtilisin/kexin-like serine proteinases, we have identified a highly conserved and phylogenetically ancestral human, rat, and mouse type I membrane-bound proteinase called subtilisin/kexin-isozyme-1 (SKI-1). Computer databank searches reveal that human SKI-1 was cloned previously but with no identified function. In situ hybridization demonstrates that SKI-1 mRNA is present in most tissues and cells. Cleavage specificity studies show that SKI-1 generates a 28-kDa product from the 32-kDa brain-derived neurotrophic factor precursor, cleaving at an RGLT downward arrowSL bond. In the endoplasmic reticulum of either LoVo or HK293 cells, proSKI-1 is processed into two membrane-bound forms of SKI-1 (120 and 106 kDa) differing by the nature of their N-glycosylation. Late along the secretory pathway some of the membrane-bound enzyme is shed into the medium as a 98-kDa form. Immunocytochemical analysis of stably transfected HK293 cells shows that SKI-1 is present in the Golgi apparatus and within small punctate structures reminiscent of endosomes. In vitro studies suggest that SKI-1 is a Ca2+-dependent serine proteinase exhibiting a wide pH optimum for cleavage of pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

Nerve growth factor and proprotein convertases furin and PC7 in transected sciatic nerves and in nerve segments cultured in conditioned media: their presence in Schwann cells, macrophages, and smooth muscle cells

Synthesis of proteins such as nerve growth factor (NGF) is induced after nerve lesion. The NGF precursor (pro-NGF) requires a posttranslational processing by proprotein convertases to become active. In this report, we re-examine the localization of NGF protein and mRNA in injured nerve and show that the candidate pro-NGF convertases furin and PC 7 colocalize with NGF in non-neuronal cells in nerve. By Northern blot analysis, 1.5-kb and 1.3-kb NGF mRNAs were shown to be increased in distal and immediately proximal nerve segments on days 1, 4, and 14 after lesion; by Western blot analysis, NGF proteins of high molecular weight were detected after injury. In vivo, two phases of NGF immunopositivity were observed, in macrophages and perivascular cells shortly after lesion and in endoneurial cells on day 1 and 4. To identify the cells containing NGF, nerve segments were incubated in serum-containing medium with or without conditioning by white blood cells isolated from the circulation. Both hybridization and immunoreactivity signals for NGF were elevated after incubation of nerve segments for 4 hours in conditioned media, so that cells with NGF immunoreactivity could be identified by antibodies to specific cell markers. In these nerve fragments, Schwann cells, perivascular smooth muscle cells, and macrophages contained NGF immunoreactivity. The concentration of furin and PC7 mRNA also increased in lesioned nerves. By immunocytochemical investigation of nerve explants, furin and PC7 were detected in endoneurial cells, macrophages and perivascular cells and were colocalized with NGF. These in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that both furin and PC7 are associated with NGF in several cell types of the sciatic nerve and, hence, may be implicated in intracellular processing of pro-NGF.

Changing patterns of renal retinal dehydrogenase expression parallel nephron development in the rat

We have recently characterized a cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenase from rat kidney that functions as a retinal dehydrogenase (RALDH) and have cloned the corresponding gene. RALDH catalyzes the oxidation of retinal to retinoic acid, which regulates cell growth and differentiation by activating retinoic acid receptors. In situ hybridization demonstrates that RALDH mRNA expression is prominent in kidney in 2-day-old rats, is detected in lung and in epithelia of several tissues, but is not found in liver tissue. Retinal dehydrogenase activity peaks in kidney at Day 2 after birth and decreases gradually until adulthood, correlating well with RALDH expression. Weaker activity is also detectable in lungs but not in liver. Notably, distribution patterns of RALDH in kidney tissues are dramatically altered during postnatal development (P). From P0 to P6, hybridization is essentially concentrated within the marginal nephrogenic zone of the cortex. Expression progresses to deeper cortical layers from P12 to P16 and is intense in the medulla at P42, and focal expression is still detectable in the cortex. Immunocytochemical localization of RALDH in neonatal kidney shows staining mostly in cortical zone convoluted tubules and in adult rat shows staining in segments of distal and proximal tubules. These data suggest an important role for RALDH in modulating retinoic acid levels in different cell types during rat kidney development. The changing patterns of RALDH expression mirror stages of nephron formation in the developing rat kidney, strongly suggesting a central role for RALDH and thus for retinoids in controlling kidney development.

The pro-protein convertase PC1 is induced in the transected sciatic nerve and is present in cultured Schwann cells: comparison with PC5, furin and PC7, implication in pro-BDNF processing

Injury of peripheral nerves induces expression of several pro-protein convertases (PCs) involved in processing of precursor proteins into their diverse active end-products. In this study, the focus was on convertase PC1 which, although undetectable in control nerves, is strongly induced in injured nerves. High concentrations of PC1 mRNA of 9.0, 5.5, 3.0, 2.5 and 1.6 kb were observed on day 4 post-lesion in proximal and distal segments. By in situ hybridization PC1 mRNA was detected in most of endoneurial cells, which were further identified by immunocytochemistry as myelin 2', 3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase containing Schwann cells. PC1 mRNA and protein were also present in cultured Schwann cells also containing convertases PC5, furin and PC7 as well as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Mostly unprocessed pro-NGF of 35 kDa and pro-BDNF of 35 kDa were found on Western blotting of Schwann cells. Expression of exogenous neurotrophins by infection with vaccinia virus vector showed that mouse pro-NGF and rat pro-BDNF are cleaved intracellularly on smaller forms of 13.5 kDa NGF and 14 kDa BDNF. Infection experiments demonstrated that Schwann cells contain active processing enzymes. In conclusion, this work provides in vivo evidence of the presence of several PCs in the injured rat sciatic nerve and ex vivo in cultured Schwann cells.

Pex mRNA is localized in developing mouse osteoblasts and odontoblasts

Mutations in PEX, a phosphate-regulating gene with homology to endopeptidase on the X chromosome, were recently identified in patients with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), an inherited disorder of phosphate homeostasis characterized by growth retardation and rachitic and osteomalacic bone disease. To understand the mechanism by which loss of PEX function elicits the mutant phenotype, a study of its mRNA localization and ontogenesis was undertaken. Using the reverse transcriptase-nested polymerase chain reaction (RT-nested PCR) with polyA+ RNA purified from mouse testis, a 337-bp Pex cDNA fragment was generated and cloned in the pCRII plasmid. The cDNA was used to generate sense and anti-sense Pex riboprobes for in situ hybridization (ISH) and Northern analysis. To survey a large number of different tissues, sagittal sections of embryos and newborn mice were examined. ISH showed the presence of Pex mRNA in osteoblasts and odontoblasts. Pex gene expression was detectable on Day 15 of embryonic development, which coincides with the beginning of intercellular matrix deposition in bones. Finally, Northern analysis of total RNA from calvariae and teeth of 3-day-old and adult mice showed that the abundance of the 7-kb Pex transcript is decreased in adult bones and in nongrowing teeth. The present study demonstrates that Pex mRNA is expressed in bones and teeth and suggests that this putative endopeptidase plays an important role in the development of these tissues.

Role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in oesophageal mucosal integrity

Oesophageal mucosa has well established protective mechanisms, which operate within pre-epithelial, epithelial and post-epithelial compartments. Since refluxed acid and pepsin always act from the luminal side of the mucosa, protective factors like EGF, operating as a part of pre-epithelial defence, are thought to be pivotal in the maintenance of the integrity of the oesophageal mucosa. The significant contribution of salivary EGF to the quality of the oesophageal mucosal barrier has been demonstrated in an experimental setting and in a clinical scenario. Patients with low salivary EGF levels are predisposed to severe oesophageal damage if they develop gastro-oesophageal reflux and are a high-risk group for development of Barrett's oesophagus. Not only the salivary glands but also the human oesophagus has a profound ability to elaborate and release EGF. Some changes in luminal release of EGF during oesophageal mucosal exposure to intraluminal damaging factors imply its role in the oesophageal protective mechanisms. To exert biological effects within the oesophageal mucosal compartment, EGF requires binding to the ligand-binding domain of its receptor. This process results in receptor dimerisation, autophosphorylation and activation of intracellular signal transduction pathways. EGF receptors are localised on the basolateral and luminal aspect of the mucosal cells playing an important role in fast regeneration of oesophageal epithelium through the high mitotic activity of its proliferative zone. An increase in the rate of salivary EGF secretion during masticatory stimulation suggests its potential therapeutic benefit in the treatment of patients with damaged oesophageal mucosa.

Alpha1-antitrypsin Portland inhibits processing of precursors mediated by proprotein convertases primarily within the constitutive secretory pathway

We studied the extent of cellular inhibitory activity of alpha1-antitrypsin Portland (alpha1-PDX), a potent inhibitor of proprotein convertases of the subtilisin/kexin type. We compared the inhibitory effects of alpha1-PDX on the intracellular processing of two model precursors (pro-7B2 and POMC) mediated by six of the seven known mammalian convertases, namely furin, PC1, PC2, PACE4, PC5-A, PC5-B, and PC7. The substrates selected were pro7B2, a precursor cleaved within the trans-Golgi network (TGN), and pro-opiomelanocortin, which is processed in the TGN and secretory granules. Biosynthetic analyses were performed using either vaccinia virus expression in BSC40, GH4C1, and AtT20 cells, or stable transfectants of alpha1-PDX in AtT20 cells. Results revealed that alpha1-PDX inhibits processing of these precursors primarily within the constitutive secretory pathway and that alpha1-PDX is cleaved into a shorter form by some convertases. Evidence is presented demonstrating that in contrast to the full-length alpha1-PDX (64 kDa), the cleaved (56 kDa) secreted product does not significantly inhibit furin activity in vitro. Cellular expression of alpha1-PDX results in modified contents of mature secretory granules with increased levels of partially processed products. Biosynthetic and immunocytochemical analyses of AtT20/alpha1-PDX cells demonstrated that alpha1-PDX is primarily localized within the TGN, and that a small proportion enters secretory granules where it is mostly stored as the cleaved product.

Esophagoprotective potential of cisapride. An additional benefit for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Cisapride is a novel prokinetic agent that releases acetylcholine at the level of the myenteric plexus. Acetylcholine also plays a role in the secretory function of salivary glands evoked by intraesophagal mechanical and chemical stimulation, mediated through the esophagosalivary reflex. The impact, however, of cisapride on salivary protective components mediated by esophagosalivary reflex remains unknown. Therefore, we have studied salivary pH, bicarbonate, nonbicarbonate, glycoconjugate, protein, EGF, TGF-alpha, and PGE2 before and after the administration of cisapride. The study was conducted in 20 asymptomatic volunteers (9 women and 11 men, mean age 36, range 26-52). Salivary secretions were collected under basal conditions and during masticatory, mechanical, and chemical stimulation before and after four days of cisapride administration (10 or 20 mg four times a day). Cisapride administration resulted in a 45% increase in salivary volume during the basal condition (P < 0.01), a 32% increase during mastication (P < 0.05), a 53% increase during mechanical (P < 0.05), and a 51% increase during chemical (P < 0.01) stimulation. Cisapride administration resulted also in a significant increase in salivary protein output (P < 0.05), salivary bicarbonate (P < 0.05), and nonbicarbonate buffers (P < 0.05), and salivary EGF (P < 0.05). Salivary glycoconjugate significantly increased only during mechanical stimulation with the catheter and at the end of the esophageal perfusion procedure (P < 0.05). Although a similar trend was also recorded during the analysis of salivary PGE2, this difference did not reach statistical significance. Salivary pH and TGF-alpha before and after cisapride administration remained unchanged. The stimulatory impact of cisapride on salivary volume and inorganic (bicarbonate and nonbicarbonate buffers) and organic (protein, glycoconjugate, and EGF) protective components would benefit patients with GERD and would also be potential therapy for xerostomia.

Role of platelet-activating factor in Chinese hamster ovary cell responses to cholera toxin

Cholera toxin (CT)-induced intestinal secretion and Chinese hamster ovary cell (CHO) elongation involves cyclic adenosine monophosphate and protein synthesis-dependent prostaglandin formation. We previously reported inhibition of CT-induced intestinal secretion and CHO elongation by platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonists and secretion of PAF by human intestinal epithelial cells exposed to CT. Herein, we show that PAF is involved after cAMP and that PAF, like CT, mediates prostaglandin E2 synthesis in CHO cells. CT-induced CHO elongation was blocked by specific PAF receptor antagonists, BN52021 and SR27417. SR27417 blocked dibutyryl cAMP-induced CHO elongation, but did not alter CHO elongation caused by PGE2. Neither CT-stimulated cAMP accumulation nor PGE2 production was inhibited by SR27417. Both PGE2 and PAF caused significant CHO elongation, but the latter did not stimulate significant cAMP production. In addition, PAF, like CT and dibutyryl cAMP, stimulated significant PGE2 production. Finally, the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide, which completely blocks the effect of CT on prostaglandin synthesis, also blocked that of PAF, suggesting that PAF also mediates protein synthesis-dependent prostaglandin formation. We conclude that PAF is involved in CHO cytoskeletal responses to CT after the accumulation of cAMP and, like CT, PAF stimulates protein synthesis-dependent prostaglandin accumulation.

Cellular localization of the prohormone convertases in the hypothalamic paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei: selective regulation of PC1 in corticotrophin-releasing hormone parvocellular neurons mediated by glucocorticoids

The prohormone convertases (PCs) are processing enzymes that activate proproteins via cleavage at specific single or pairs of basic residues. The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) are primary sites of biosynthesis of several neuroendocrine hormone precursors, including provasopressin (pro-AVP), pro-oxytocin (pro-OT), and procorticotrophin-releasing hormone (pro-CRH), which require post-translational processing to yield active products. Using in situ hybridization, we observed PC1 and PC5 mRNAs in PVN and SON magnocellular neurons, while PC2 mRNA was observed in both magnocellular and parvocellular PVN neurons as well as magnocellular SON neurons. Similar to furin, PC7 mRNA was expressed throughout the PVN and SON, whereas PACE4 mRNA levels were undetectable. Both immunohistochemical and Western blot studies were performed to demonstrate the presence of PC proteins and forms in the PVN and SON. Using double-labeling in situ hybridization, we examined the cellular colocalization of each PC mRNA with pro-AVP, pro-OT, and pro-CRH mRNAs in PVN and SON. PC1 mRNA was colocalized with both AVP and OT mRNA in PVN and SON magnocellular neurons. All AVP, OT, and CRH neurons expressed PC2. In contrast, PC5 mRNA was colocalized only with OT mRNA. We examined the effects of adrenalectomy (ADX) on PVN PC mRNA levels. PC1 mRNA levels were increased selectively within CRH/AVP parvocellular neurons but were unchanged in PVN magnocellular AVP or OT neurons. These results established the anatomical organization of each convertase and proneuropeptide substrates in the PVN and SON and suggested potential roles for each enzyme under resting and stimulated conditions.

Pilocarpine-induced seizures are accompanied by a transient elevation in the messenger RNA expression of the prohormone convertase PC1 in rat hippocampus: comparison with nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression

Several prohormone convertases that are involved in the posttranslational processing of precursor proteins, including neuropetides, hormones and neurotrophic factors, are produced in the central nervous system. These include enzymes named furin, PC1, PC2, PC5 and PACE4. To understand better the potential role played by prohormone convertases in the central nervous system we studied the expression of their messenger RNAs in the hippocampus of rats with pilocarpine-induced seizures. Moreover, we compared their expression patterns with those of neurotrophins such as nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which are up-regulated in the hippocampus during seizures. Pilocarpine (380 mg/kg, i.p.) induced seizure activity that appeared within the first hour and persisted for approximately 8 h. In situ hybridization showed transient increases in messenger RNA for nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor that peaked at 120 min in the hippocampus. Among the convertases studied, only PC1 messenger RNA displayed up-regulation, with temporal and topographic features comparable to those of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor messenger RNA. The expression of furin, PC2 and PC5 messenger RNA changed little, while PACE4 was not expressed at all, both before and after pilocarpine administration. The highest increase in PC1 messenger RNA expression was found in granule cells of the dentate gyrus and, to a lesser extent, in the pyramidal layer of CA1 and CA3 subfields. Thus, in the rat hippocampus, the epileptiform activity induced by pilocarpine mediates a co-ordinated expression of messenger RNAs for PC1, nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Our findings suggest the involvement of PC1 in the processing of precursor proteins during seizure activity.

Detrimental impact of acid and pepsin on the rate of luminal release of transforming growth factor alpha. Its potential pathogenetic role in the development of reflux esophagitis

The impact of intraluminal acid and pepsin on the rate of esophageal luminal release of transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha), measured by RIA, in 21 asymptomatic volunteers and 26 patients with reflux esophagitis (RE) was investigated. Esophageal secretion was collected, using an esophageal perfusion catheter, during mucosal exposure to NaCl, HCl or HCl/Pepsin and final saline. The basal rate of luminal TGF alpha release in controls was steady throughout the entire four perfusion periods with saline. This rate declined by 71% during mucosal exposure to HCl (p = 0.002) and by 74% during esophageal perfusion with HCl/pepsin (p = 0.011). The basal rate of luminal TGF alpha release in patients with RE was 27% higher than the corresponding value in controls (1.076 +/- 0.140 vs. 0.850 +/- 0.180 ng/min, p = 0.050). Mucosal exposure to acid and acid/pepsin solutions in RE patients also resulted in a significant decline in the luminal release of TGF alpha by 43% (p < 0.001) and by 42% (p < 0.001) respectively. Despite this decline, TGF alpha in patients with RE was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than in controls. The decline in esophageal TGF alpha release during HCl and HCl/pepsin exposure may facilitate the development of mucosal damage. The increase in esophageal TGF alpha release in patients with RE may represent a compensatory mechanism developed by the mucosal inflammatory changes.

The isoforms of proprotein convertase PC5 are sorted to different subcellular compartments

The proprotein convertase PC5 is encoded by multiple mRNAs, two of which give rise to the COOH-terminal variant isoforms PC5-A (915 amino acids [aa]) and PC5-B (1877 aa). To investigate the differences in biosynthesis and sorting between these two proteins, we generated stably transfected AtT-20 cell lines expressing each enzyme individually and examined their respective processing pattern and subcellular localization. Biosynthetic analyses coupled to immunofluorescence studies demonstrated that the shorter and soluble PC5-A is sorted to regulated secretory granules. In contrast, the COOH-terminally extended and membrane-bound PC5-B is located in the Golgi. The presence of a sorting signal in the COOH-terminal 38 amino acids unique to PC5-A was demonstrated by the inefficient entry into the regulated secretory pathway of a mutant lacking this segment. EM of pancreatic cells established the presence of immunoreactive PC5 in glucagon-containing granules, demonstrating the sorting of this protein to dense core secretory granules in endocrine cells. Thus, a single PC5 gene generates COOH-terminally modified isoforms with different sorting signals directing these proteins to distinct subcellular localization, thereby allowing them to process their appropriate substrates.

Impact of Helicobacter pylori colonization on immunoreactive epidermal growth factor and transforming growth factor-alpha in gastric juice. Its potential pathogenetic implications

Epidermal growth factor (EGF), pivotal in mucosal protection, is partly degraded proteolytically at low pH in the gastric milieu; gastric acid secretion, on the other hand, remains influenced by H. pylori colonization. The aim of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the impact of low pH and H. pylori colonization status on immunoreactive EGF and the other member of EGF-family, immunoreactive transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha). Eighteen patients with nonulcer dyspepsia (NUD) colonized by H. pylori and 55 NUD patients without H. pylori colonization were investigated. Gastric juice samples were aspirated at the beginning of the endoscopy procedure and immediately placed on ice, and their pH was recorded. The measurement of immunoreactive EGF and TGF-alpha was performed using commercially available radioimmunoassays (RIAs) after adjustment of pH to neutral using an assay buffer. Statistical analysis was performed using sigma-Stat for Windows. The concentration of immunoreactive EGF in patients with NUD colonized by H. pylori was 80% lower (P < 0.02) than in those without H. pylori and in both groups immunoreactive EGF was significantly lower when the pH of gastric juice was below 4.0. The concentration of immunoreactive EGF in H. pylori(+) and H. pylori(-) patients was similar when the pH of aspirated gastric juice was above 4.0. However, with gastric juice pH < 4.0, the EGF concentration was 64% lower in H. pylori(+) patients than H. pylori(-) patients (P < 0.05). In general, the concentration of immunoreactive TGF-alpha in gastric juice was unaffected by H. pylori colonization or pH of gastric juice. It is concluded that: (1) significantly lower immunoreactive EGF concentrations in patients with pH below 4.0 indicate that immunoreactive EGF but not immunoreactive TGF-alpha is affected by an acidic gastric milieu; (2) the further reduction of gastric juice immunoreactive EGF at pH below 4.0 in patients colonized by H. pylori suggests that this microorganism may elaborate factors that accelerate its proteolytic degradation or inhibit its rate of synthesis and/or secretion; and (3) this diminished content of immunoreactive EGF at low pH, especially in patients colonized by H. pylori, may facilitate the development and/or progression of mucosal damage.

Kainic acid increases the expression of the prohormone convertases furin and PC1 in the mouse hippocampus

Prohormone convertases (PCs) belong to the mammalian family of subtilisin/kexin-like enzymes which have been implicated in the posttranslational processing of precursor proteins. Several PCs are produced in the central and peripheral nervous system, and only a few specific precursor-substrates have been identified in vivo. In the nervous system, PCs may be involved in intracellular processing of precursors for neuropeptides, hormones and neurotrophic factors, including nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). To study the interrelationships between the convertases furin, PC1 and PC2, and the neurotrophins NGF, BDNF and NT-3, we compared their mRNA distribution in different tissues. We also examined their expression in the hippocampus of mice undergoing kainic acid-induced seizures. In this experiment, in situ hybridization (ISH) demonstrated that the levels of mRNA for furin, PC1 and BDNF increased maximally at 3 h after kainic acid administration, followed by a decline to normal levels by 96 h. NGF showed small changes, while NT-3 was downregulated with minimal expression levels between 3 to 12 h. Double ISH with radioactively-labeled riboprobes and digoxigenin-labeled riboprobes demonstrated colocalization of furin with NGF and BDNF in the mouse submaxillary gland, and of furin and PC1 with BDNF in the trigeminal ganglion. Based on colocalization studies and evidence of coordinate expression with NGF and BDNF, we suggest the involvement of furin in processing of proNGF, and of both furin and PC1 in processing of proBDNF.

Prostaglandin E2 content in residual gastric juice reflects endoscopic damage to the gastric mucosa after naproxen sodium administration

OBJECTIVES

The diagnostic potential of residual gastric juice for development of naproxen sodium-induced mucosal damage has not been explored. We studied prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) content in residual gastric juice before and after naproxen sodium administration and assessed relationships with endoscopic mucosal damage.

METHODS

Thirty volunteers received the recommended over-the-counter dose (660 mg/day) of naproxen sodium or placebo in this 7-day, double-blind, endoscopically controlled, cross-over study.

RESULTS

PGE2 concentration in gastric juice did not increase after placebo; naproxen significantly reduced PGE2 concentration (p < 0.001). In three subjects in whom no endoscopic changes occurred after naproxen administration, PGE2 concentration increased by 14%. In seven subjects who developed hemorrhagic changes, PGE2 concentration declined by 50% (p = 0.08). In 20 subjects who developed numerous hemorrhagic and erosive changes within the antral mucosa, PGE2 concentration declined by 70% (p < 0.001). The starting PGE2 value in subjects with severe mucosal hemorrhagic and erosive changes after naproxen was almost eightfold higher than in subjects who did not develop mucosal damage (p = 0.007) and 67% higher than in subjects with hemorrhagic changes only (p = 0.25).

CONCLUSION

PGE2 measurement in residual gastric juice, aspirated before and after nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug treatment, may be useful in monitoring mucosal damage and may identify patients who are likely to develop endoscopic mucosal changes.

Enhancement of salivary esophagoprotection: rationale for a physiological approach to gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Secretion of salivary protective factors in patient s with gastroesophageal reflux disease is impaired. However, the impact of physiological stimulus mastication on salivary protective factors output remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to measure salivary volume, pH, HCO3-, peptide growth factors, prostaglandin, mucin, protein, and viscosity during mastication.

METHODS

In 31 asymptomatic volunteers and 36 patients with endoscopic reflux esophagitis, in basal and parafilm chewing-stimulated saliva, its volume, pH, bicarbonate, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor alpha, prostaglandin E2, mucin, protein, and viscosity were investigated.

RESULTS

Masticatory stimulation in controls resulted in a significantly increased salivary volume by 205%, pH by 7.6%, bicarbonate by 335%, mucin by 137%, protein by 98%, epidermal growth factor by 123%, and prostaglandin E2 by 132%, accompanied by an increase in transforming growth factor alpha by 80% with 19% decline in viscosity vs. basal values. Mastication in reflux esophagitis significantly increased salivary volume by 215%, pH by 6.8%, bicarbonate by 257%, mucin by 135%, protein by 94%, epidermal growth factor by 207%, and prostaglandin E2 by 240%, whereas transforming growth factor alpha increased by 225% and viscosity by 64% when compared with corresponding basal values.

CONCLUSIONS

A profound and significant increase in the secretion rate of inorganic and organic protective components in saliva during masticatory stimulation suggests its potential value as a therapeutic approach to the treatment of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

The relationship between the content of aggressive and protective components in gastric juice and endoscopic findings after naproxen sodium and acetaminophen administration

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic value of residual gastric juice, we assessed various secretory components before and after placebo, acetaminophen, or naproxen sodium administration.

METHODS

In a double-blind, randomized, cross-over study in 30 asymptomatic volunteers, mucin, hydrophobicity, protein, pepsin, and pH were measured in residual gastric juice before and after placebo, naproxen sodium (660 mg/d), or acetaminophen (4000 mg/d) administration. Mucus layer thickness in biopsy specimens was assessed, and mucosal damage was endoscopically evaluated.

RESULTS

All parameters were unchanged after 7 days of placebo. Naproxen caused a 46% (p = 0.008) increase in the rate of luminal mucin release, an 18% increase (p = 0.510) in protein release, and a 61% decrease (p = 0.001) in hydrophobicity. Antral and duodenal mucus gel thickness were compromised, and hemorrhagic and erosive endoscopic changes were noted. Acetaminophen resulted only in a significant decline of pepsin. In subjects without endoscopic damage after naproxen, a nonsignificant decrease in hydrophobicity was noted. However, in subjects with endoscopic changes, a 55% decrease (p = 0.002) in hydrophobicity and a 42% increase (p = 0.024) in the rate of luminal mucin release were demonstrated. The initial mucin of subjects who developed endoscopic mucosal changes after naproxen was 53% higher than in subjects without damage. Subjects with endoscopic changes also exhibited a 48% lower initial hydrophobicity and a 43% lower pepsin than subjects without endoscopic changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric mucosal damage after naproxen sodium results in profound changes within the gastric mucosal barrier, and analysis of residual gastric juice components adequately reflects these changes. In contrast, acetaminophen results in only minimal gastric juice changes. Analysis of residual gastric juice may be useful in monitoring the extent of mucosal damage and identifying patients likely to develop mucosal damage.

Implications of the subtilisin/kexin-like precursor convertases in the development and function of nervous tissues

Furin, PC1, PC2, and PC5 represent mammalian convertases (PCs) found in endocrine, central and peripheral nervous tissues, which cleave a number of precursors at basic residues normally processed in vivo. Typical bonds cleaved by PCs include the pairs Lys-Arg, Arg-Arg and Arg-X-Lys/Arg-Arg. These cleavage sites have been detected following coexpression of each convertase in cell lines together with different precursors as models, including proopiomelanocortin (POMC), proinsulin and proNGF and proBDNF. The presence of PCs and different precursors was revealed by in situ hybridization or immunocytochemistry in cultured AtT-20 cells, in the developing CNS, pituitary, and pancreatic islets. In an experimental model of epilepsy in which epileptiform activities were provoked by kainic acid administration, we observed a similar transient expression of furin and PC1 as compared to that of NGF and BDNF. In conclusion, it is proposed that under different stimuli various precursors are activated by a unique cocktail of convertases, each of which either alone or in combination with others acts to process inactive precursors, and thereby playing an important role in development and in the plasticity of the neuronal system.

Monophasic luminal release of prostaglandin E2 in patients with reflux esophagitis under the impact of acid and acid/pepsin solutions. Its potential pathogenetic significance

Normal human esophageal mucosa exhibits biphasic secretory responses to intraluminal stimuli in terms of PGE2 release with a decline under the impact of HCl and an increase in PGE2 release during mucosal exposure to HCl/Pepsin. PGE2 secretory patterns in patients with reflux esophagitis (RE) remain unknown. We have studied, therefore, luminal release of PGE2 in 28 patients with nonhealed and healed RE, and compared the obtained results with corresponding values recorded in controls. The rate of luminal release of PGE2 in nonhealed RE exhibited a monophasic patterns, i.e., significantly decreased both during mucosal exposure to HCl (2,273 +/- 444, vs. 3,655 +/- 600 pg/min, p = 0.025) and HCl/pepsin (1,271 +/- 244, vs. 3,655 +/- 600 pg/min. p = 0.003) as compared to its basal value. However, the rate of luminal PGE2 release in patients with nonhealed RE in basal conditions and during mucosal exposure to HCl was significantly higher than corresponding values in controls. Luminal release of PGE2 in patients with healed endoscopic esophagitis was significantly lower as compared to corresponding values recorded in patients with nonhealed endoscopic changes and in controls. In conclusion, (a) monophasic inhibitory responses of the esophageal mucosa to intraluminal HCl and HCl/pepsin solutions in patients with RE indicate a different pattern of mucosal secretory response to intraluminal stimuli; (b) inhibition of the rate of luminal release of PGE2 under the impact of HCl/pepsin may play a role in the development and/or progression of mucosal damage; and (c) the decline in the rate of luminal PGE2 release in healed RE indicates that its elevated value in active esophageal disease should be considered as an implication of mucosal damage induced by HCl/pepsin.

Modulatory impact of acid and pepsin on esophageal hydrophobicity in humans

OBJECTIVES

The role of hydrophobicity in the pathophysiology of the gastrointestinal tract is well established as a protective mechanism against the impact of lumenal acid and pepsin. Hydrophobic properties of esophageal secretion in humans remain largely unknown.

METHODS

We have studied, therefore, hydrophobicity by using fluorescence probe in human esophageal secretion, elaborated under the impact of saline followed by HCl, HCl/pepsin, and final saline.

RESULTS

Basal hydrophobicity of human esophageal secretion, elaborated during mucosal exposure to saline, was 237 +/- 32. This value, however, declined 72% during mucosal exposure to HCl (66 +/- 14 vs 237 +/- 32; p < 0.001) and 87% during mucosal exposure to acid supplemented with pepsin (30 +/- 4 vs 237 +/- 32; p < 0.001). Moreover, hydrophobicity upon perfusion with HCl/pepsin was 55% lower than after perfusion with HCl alone (30 +/- 4 vs 66 +/- 14), although the result was insignificant. Substitution of saline for HCl/pepsin solution during the last perfusion period resulted in a partial recovery of hydrophobicity in esophageal secretion (131 +/- 30 vs 30 +/- 4; p < 0.001), although this value was lower than the basal hydrophobicity value (131 +/- 30 vs 237 +/- 32; p = 0.028). In addition, we continuously observed a significant shift in the fluorescence emission maximum from 508 +/- 6.4 to 486 +/- 0.9 (p < 0.001) during perfusion with starting saline, to 492 +/- 1.6 (p < 0.001) during exposure to HCl, to 493 +/- 1.1 (p < 0.001) during perfusion with HCl/pepsin, and to 488 +/- 0.9 (p < 0.001) during infusion of final saline. The maximum emission wavelength after esophageal exposure to initial saline also was significantly lower than the maximum emission upon perfusion with HCl (492 +/- 1.6 vs 486 +/- 0.9; p < 0.05) and HCl/pepsin (493 +/- 1.1 vs 486 +/- 0.9; p < 0.05). Although basal hydrophobicity in males was similar to corresponding values recorded in females, mucosal exposure to HCl (pH 2.1) resulted in an 84% decline in females but only 60% in males. Therefore, the hydrophobicity value in females during the perfusion period with HCl was 52% lower than in males (p = 0.129).

CONCLUSIONS

Esophageal secretion exhibits its hydrophobic nature presumably through the presence of mucus components such as mucin and mucin-associated phospholipids. The inhibitory impact of HCl and HCl/pepsin solutions on esophageal hydrophobicity may play a role in the pathogenesis of mucosal damage by gastroesophagel refluxate.

Mucosal adenosine deaminase activity and stump ulcer healing

Adenosine deaminase activity was studied in endoscopically taken slices from gastric mucosa in patient after partial gastric resection performed due to complicated duodenal ulcer, and currently with peptic ulcer in the stump. The samples of gastric mucosa were taken before and after 6 weeks of treatment with ranitidine, 150 mg twice daily, at a distance within 2 cm and greater than 2 cm from the ulcer crater. Adenosine deaminase activity was measured in mucosa homogenates by determination of ammonia liberated from substrate. It was found that therapy with ranitidine was accompanied by an increase in enzyme activity in the mucosa surrounding unhealed stump ulcers, while no changes were noted in mucosa around healed stump ulcers. A possible role of mucosal adenosine deaminase activity in stump ulcer healing is postulated.

Distinct mRNA expression of the highly homologous convertases PC5 and PACE4 in the rat brain and pituitary

Posttranslational endoproteolysis is essential for the production of biologically active peptides from inactive precursors. Six kexin/substilisin-like endoproteases have been characterized in mammalian species. To understand the complex physiological functions of each convertase within a cellular context it is necessary to comprehensively define its tissue distribution and cohabitation with other members of the family. Previous studies demonstrated the distinct distribution of PC1, PC2, and furin mRNAs in the pituitary and brain, suggesting a unique function for each enzyme. In the present study, the mRNA tissue distributions of the two most recent and homologous members, PC5 and PACE4, were analyzed in rat pituitary and brain using in situ hybridization histochemistry. In the pituitary, the anterior lobe exhibited moderate levels of PC5 and high levels of PACE4 mRNAs. The intermediate lobe showed low levels of PC5 expression, while PACE4 mRNA levels were undetectable. PACE4 transcripts were detected throughout cells of the neural lobe suggesting expression in pituicytes. In the brain, PC5 expression was more restricted than PACE4. PC5 mRNA was detected only in neuronal cells, whereas PACE4 mRNA was expressed in both neuronal and glial cells. In areas that are rich in neuropeptides such as cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, mRNA levels of PC5 were high but PACE4 were low or undetectable. In regions, such as the amygdaloid body and thalamus, distinct but complementary distributions of PC5 and PACE4 mRNAs were observed. The medial habenular and cerebellar Purkinje cells expressed very high levels of PACE4 mRNA. The present data strongly suggest unique tissue-specific functions of PC5 and PACE4.

Maintained PC1 and PC2 expression in the AtT-20 variant cell line 6T3 lacking regulated secretion and POMC: restored POMC expression and regulated secretion after cAMP treatment

Two variant cell lines were recently established from parent AtT-20 cells. Whereas HYA.15.10.T.2 have a reduced level of secretory granules, HYA.15.6.T.3 are completely devoid of both the regulated pathway of secretion and of dense-core secretory granules. AtT-20 cells normally express the processing enzymes PC1, PC2, furin, carboxypeptidase E, and peptidylglycine alpha-amidating monooxygenase, as well as proopiomelanocortin, chromogranin B, and 7B2. We measured the expression of these mRNAs in both variant cell lines. Although some differences in mRNA level were noted, HYA.15.10.T.2 and HYA.15.6.T.3 cell lines maintained their expression of the processing enzymes and of 7B2. Furthermore, PC1 and PC2 were shown to be functionally active in the HYA.15.6.T.3 cells. In contrast, proopiomelanocortin and chromogranin B mRNA levels were no longer detectable in HYA.15.6.T.3 cells. Interestingly, stimulation of the HYA.15.6.T.3 cells with cAMP restored proopiomelanocortin mRNA, beta-endorphin immunoreactivity, and dense-core granules. Furthermore, at the ultrastructural level, beta-lipotropin immunoreactivity was detected in granules of cAMP-induced HYA.15.6.T.3 cells. Finally, depolarization of cAMP-induced HYA.15.6.T.3 cells with 56 mM potassium chloride resulted in a marked increase in the release of beta-endorphin immunoreactivity. These observations demonstrate that cAMP restores the regulated pathway of secretion in HYA.15.6.T.3 cells, which under untreated conditions do not demonstrate regulated release. These variant cell lines are unique models to understand better the relationship of the regulated pathway and the expression of the processing enzymes.

Declined human esophageal mucin secretion in patients with severe reflux esophagitis

It has been recently demonstrated that human esophageal submucosal mucous glands exhibit the ability to secrete copious amounts of mucin, well known within the gastrointestinal tract for its protective quality against hydrogen ion and pepsin. Since mucin may also play a protective role within the esophageal compartment, we have studied the rate of secretion of esophageal mucin in patients with RE. Mucin was assessed by periodic acid-Schiff methodology in esophageal secretion collected during continuous perfusion with saline (period I) followed by HCl (period II), HCl/pepsin (period III), and final saline (period IV), mimicking the natural gastroesophageal scenario. The basal rate of the luminal release of mucin in patients with grade II RE was 18% lower as compared with controls. During exposure of the esophageal mucosa to an HCl/pepsin solution, esophageal mucin output in the RE group was 52% lower than in the control group (0.154 +/- 0.027 vs 0.320 +/- 0.049 mg/cm2/min; P = 0.025). Furthermore, the rates of esophageal mucin output in patients with grade III RE during esophageal perfusion with saline and HCl/pepsin were 62% (0.090 +/- 0.021 vs 0.239 +/- 0.036 mg/cm2/min; P = 0.016) and 86% (0.048 +/- 0.010 vs 0.320 +/- 0.049 mg/cm2/min; P = 0.001) lower when compared with corresponding values in controls. After endoscopic healing of RE, the overall impairment in the rate of esophageal mucin secretion in patients with grade II improved from 31% to 17% at the end of therapy, whereas in patients with grade III the impairment in mucin secretion improved only marginally from 71% to 69%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The mouse homeoprotein mLIM-3 is expressed early in cells derived from the neuroepithelium and persists in adult pituitary

LIM-homeodomain proteins are important in cell lineage specification and possibly mediate transcriptional processes in eukaryotes. During the screening of a mouse pituitary cDNA library, we isolated a partial cDNA coding for a novel gene product that exhibited a predicted amino-terminal sequence similar to the homeobox of LIM-homeodomain-containing proteins. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCR) performed on mouse pituitary mRNA using degenerate oligonucleotides based on the conserved LIM-domain sequences, allowed the extension of the 5' end of the sequence. The composite 2.2-kb cDNA structure predicts a 400-amino-acid-long novel mouse (m) protein, called mLIM-3. This name was chosen since within the 59-amino-acid homeodomain, it exhibits 97% sequence identity to a recently reported Xenopus homologue xLIM-3. The gene coding for mLIM-3 maps to the murine chromosome 2, most probably within the 2B band. Based on sequence characteristics, we suggest that LIM-3 belongs to a distinct subfamily of LIM-containing homeoproteins. Ontogeny studies using in situ hybridization demonstrated that mLIM-3 transcripts can be detected on embryonic day 11 (e11) in the primordium of the hypophysis. Following a maximum between e12 and e14, lower levels persisted into adulthood, where mLIM-3 was expressed primarily in the anterior and intermediate lobes of the pituitary. These results were confirmed by Northern blot analysis in adult mice which revealed a 2.4-kb pituitary mRNA transcript. mLIM-3 transcripts were also detected in pituitary cell lines such as the somatotrophs GH3 and GH4C1, the gonadotroph alpha T3-1, and the corticotroph AtT-20 cells, but not in 20 other cell lines derived from peripheral, endocrine, and neural tissues. Starting from e11, we also observed a transient expression of mLIM-3 in the ventral part of the spinal cord, pons, and medulla oblongata, reaching a maximum at e13 and from p7 onward, the expression of this transcript is no longer detectable. mLIM-3 is also expressed in the pineal gland with high levels observed at e20. These data suggest a potential role for mLIM-3 in the transcriptional regulation of certain genes during morphogenesis and/or maintenance of the differentiated state of the pituitary, motor neurons, and pineal gland.

Developmental expression of the prohormone convertases PC1 and PC2 in mouse pancreatic islets

The immunocytochemical distribution and messenger RNA expression of the prohormone convertases PC1 and PC2 involved in the posttranslational processing of precursor proteins were analyzed in mouse and rat pancreatic islets. Immunocytochemical colocalization studies demonstrated a close association of insulin with both PC1 and PC2 in the adult mouse and rat pancreas. The coexpression of insulin with the prohormone convertases was further examined in rat pancreatic tumors induced by streptozotocin-nicotinamide treatment. These insulin-synthesizing tumors expressed PC1 and PC2, whereas insulin-silent adenomas did not. Colocalization studies demonstrated that only PC2, not PC1, colocalizes with glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide, and somatostatin. The highest levels of PC2-like immunoreactivity were observed in the glucagon-containing alpha-cells. Ontogeny studies carried out by in situ hybridization in mice showed the first detectable expression of the prohormone convertases in the pancreatic primordium at midgestation, starting for PC1 on embryonic day 11 and for PC2 on embryonic day 10. Enzyme expression was further confirmed by immunocytochemistry, which detected the presence of immunoreactive PC1- and PC2-like proteins on embryonic days 14 and 17, respectively. Taken together, our data suggest that both PC1 and PC2 play a role in proinsulin processing in vivo, whereas PC2 is a likely candidate convertase participating in the processing of proglucagon, propancreatic polypeptide, and prosomatostatin in pancreatic islets.

Pan-neuronal mRNA expression of the secretory polypeptide 7B2

The polypeptide 7B2 exhibits a widespread distribution in the CNS and in the endocrine tissues. By in situ hybridization in the mouse tissues, we detected 7B2-mRNA transcripts in most, if not all, neurons of the brain and spinal cord, and in the cranial and spinal ganglia. 7B2-mRNA was undetectable in supportive glial cells, ependymal cells and endothelial cells. In embryonic tissues, 7B2-mRNA expression was observed at midgestation, starting on day 11. Both differentiated neurons and neuronal precursors have been shown to express 7B2 transcript. We conclude that 7B2-mRNA is a good molecular marker of developing and definitive neurons.

Adenosine deaminase activity in gastric cancer

Adenosine deaminase activity, the key enzyme of adenosine inactivation, was studied in slices taken endoscopically from gastric cancer and macroscopically unchanged gastric mucosa surrounding the cancer. The activity of the enzyme was measured in mucosa homogenates by determination of ammonia liberated from substrate. It was found that adenosine deaminase activity in neoplastic lesions did not differ significantly from normal mucosa and that the gastric region studied (antrum, corpus) did not have an impact. A significant difference in enzyme activity was noticed between intestinal and diffuse-type gastric carcinoma (according to Lauren's classification); the intestinal type was characterized by lower adenosine deaminase activity than was the diffuse type. Since the activity of adenosine deaminase in gastric cancer did not exhibit significant differences from normal mucosa the diagnostic value of its determination is of less importance.