ApoA-I mimetics favorably impact cyclooxygenase 2 and bioactive lipids that may contribute to cardiometabolic syndrome in chronic treated HIV

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) mimetic peptides 4F and 6F can be a novel therapeutic strategy to reduce blood and gut bioactive lipids, proinflammatory effects of endotoxin (LPS) and aberrant activation of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) as instigators of increased risk for cardiometabolic disease in chronic treated HIV.

METHODS

We used two humanized murine models of chronic treated HIV infection (n = 109 mice) and gut explants from HIV infected (n = 10) persons to determine whether Tg6F and 4F attenuate in vivo and ex vivo increased blood and gut bioactive lipids (measured by mass spectrometry) and intestinal protein levels of COX-2 (measured by immunoassays) in chronic treated HIV.

RESULTS

In these models of HIV, when compared to HIV-1 infected mice on antiretroviral therapy (ART) alone, oral Tg6F in combination with ART attenuated increases in plasma and gut bioactive lipids (and particularly COX lipids) and intestinal COX-2. 4F and Tg6F also reduced ex vivo production of COX-2 protein and associated secretion of bioactive lipids in gut explants from HIV-1 infected persons treated with LPS.

CONCLUSION

ApoA-I mimetics favorably impact the proinflammatory effects of LPS, COX-2 and production of bioactive lipids that collectively drive gut and systemic inflammation in chronic treated HIV. Given prior experimental evidence that the proinflammatory effects of LPS, COX-2 and gut dysfunction contribute to cardiometabolic syndrome in chronic HIV, apoA-I mimetic peptides may be a novel therapy to treat cardiometabolic syndrome in chronic HIV.

A short-term increase in dietary cholesterol and fat intake affects high-density lipoprotein composition in healthy subjects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

High-cholesterol and high-fat diets alter biochemical composition and anti-oxidant properties of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in animals. Whether this occurs in humans is unknown. Therefore, we examined the effect of a short-term elevation in dietary cholesterol and fat intake on HDL composition in healthy subjects.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In a randomized, crossover clinical trial, 14 healthy young volunteers followed a 14-day low-cholesterol/low-fat diet (LChF) and a 14-day isocaloric high-cholesterol/high-fat diet (HChF) in a random order. After each diet, we measured HDL concentrations of hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETE), hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (HODE), and haptoglobin, as well as serum amyloid A (SAA) and paroxonase-1 activity (PON-1). HDL concentrations of 15-HETE (+254%, p = 0.002), 5-HETE (+116%, p = 0.004), 13-HODE (+102%, p = 0.049), and SAA levels (+75%, p = 0.007) were significantly higher after the HChF than after the LChF. Furthermore, haptoglobin was marginally increased (+32%, p = 0.091) while PON-1 activity was unaffected (-16%, p = 0.366) by the HChF.

CONCLUSION

In healthy subjects, a short-term elevation in dietary cholesterol and fat intake increases HDL lipid hydroperoxide content (15-HETE, 5-HETE, 13-HODE) and SAA levels, which are key features of dysfunctional HDL. This is the first study showing that a physiologic manipulation of dietary cholesterol and fat intake affects HDL lipidome and proteome in healthy subjects independently of weight changes.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02549144.

Remodeling of the HDL proteome with treatment response to abatacept or adalimumab in the AMPLE trial of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

To evaluate changes in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) proteome and HDL function in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients initiating therapy with abatacept or adalimumab in the Abatacept Versus Adalimumab Comparison in Biologic-Naïve RA Subjects with Background Methotrexate (AMPLE) study.

METHODS

Ultra high-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with ion mobility mass spectrometry (LC-IM-MS) was used to analyze proteins associated with immunoaffinity-captured HDL from plasma of 30 patients with RA randomized to either abatacept (n = 15) or adalimumab (n = 15) therapy. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity, HDL anti-oxidant capacity, cholesterol profiles, and homocysteine levels were also measured at baseline and following treatment. Repeated-measures analyses were performed using mixed-effect linear models to model the within-subject covariance over time.

RESULTS

In models controlling for age, sex and treatment group, improvement in inflammation measured by decreases in CRP was associated with improvement in HDL function and changes in several HDL-associated proteins including significant decreases in lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, serum amyloid A-I (SAA-I) and inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4 (p values < 0.05). Improvement in disease activity was also associated with changes in multiple HDL-associated proteins. Adalimumab was associated with higher PON1 activity, HDL-associated serotransferrin, and HDL-associated immunoglobulin J chain, and lower HDL-associated SAA-I over time compared with abatacept.

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in inflammation associated with treatment of RA, using either abatacept or adalimumab in the AMPLE study, was associated with improvement in HDL function and significant alterations in the HDL proteome, including proteins involved in the immune response, proteinase inhibition, and lipid metabolism.

Deep sequencing in library selection projects: what insight does it bring?

High throughput sequencing is poised to change all aspects of the way antibodies and other binders are discovered and engineered. Millions of available sequence reads provide an unprecedented sampling depth able to guide the design and construction of effective, high quality naïve libraries containing tens of billions of unique molecules. Furthermore, during selections, high throughput sequencing enables quantitative tracing of enriched clones and position-specific guidance to amino acid variation under positive selection during antibody engineering. Successful application of the technologies relies on specific PCR reagent design, correct sequencing platform selection, and effective use of computational tools and statistical measures to remove error, identify antibodies, estimate diversity, and extract signatures of selection from the clone down to individual structural positions. Here we review these considerations and discuss some of the remaining challenges to the widespread adoption of the technology.

HDL lipid composition is profoundly altered in patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic vascular disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We have previously shown that the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant functions of HDL are impaired in T2D patients. In this study, we examined whether HDL from T2D patients contains elevated levels of oxidized fatty acids and whether those levels correlate with cardiovascular disease (CVD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

HETEs and HODEs on HDL were determined by LC-MS/MS in 40 non-diabetic controls (ND), 40 T2D without CVD (D⁺CVD⁻) and 38 T2D with known history of CVD (D⁺CVD⁺). HDL oxidant index was evaluated by a cell-free assay using dichlorofluorescein. Twenty-six randomly selected subjects from the three groups underwent coronary calcium score evaluation (CAC). Major cardiovascular risk factors were similar among the groups. HETEs and HODEs content were significantly increased in HDL from D⁺CVD⁺ when compared to D⁺CVD⁻ and ND patients. HDL oxidant index was not different among the three groups; however, it was significantly higher in patients with CAC score >100 when compared to patients with CAC score <100.

CONCLUSION

Patients with D⁺CVD⁻ and D⁺CVD⁺ are characterized by a severe, graded enrichment of oxidized fatty acids on HDL. In the present study, a loss of HDL function (as estimated by the HDL oxidant index) is observed only in patients with more advanced atherosclerosis.

Granzyme B regulates antiviral CD8+ T cell responses

CTLs and NK cells use the perforin/granzyme cytotoxic pathway to kill virally infected cells and tumors. Human regulatory T cells also express functional granzymes and perforin and can induce autologous target cell death in vitro. Perforin-deficient mice die of excessive immune responses after viral challenges, implicating a potential role for this pathway in immune regulation. To further investigate the role of granzyme B in immune regulation in response to viral infections, we characterized the immune response in wild-type, granzyme B-deficient, and perforin-deficient mice infected with Sendai virus. Interestingly, granzyme B-deficient mice, and to a lesser extent perforin-deficient mice, exhibited a significant increase in the number of Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells in the lungs and draining lymph nodes of virally infected animals. This increase was not the result of failure in viral clearance because viral titers in granzyme B-deficient mice were similar to wild-type mice and significantly less than perforin-deficient mice. Regulatory T cells from WT mice expressed high levels of granzyme B in response to infection, and depletion of regulatory T cells from these mice resulted in an increase in the number of Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells, similar to that observed in granzyme B-deficient mice. Furthermore, granzyme B-deficient regulatory T cells displayed defective suppression of CD8(+) T cell proliferation in vitro. Taken together, these results suggest a role for granzyme B in the regulatory T cell compartment in immune regulation to viral infections.

Hand-off education and evaluation: piloting the observed simulated hand-off experience (OSHE)

AIM

The Observed Simulated Hand-off Experience (OSHE) was created to evaluate medical students' sign-out skills using a real-time assessment tool, the Hand-off CEX.

SETTING

Thirty-two 4th year medical students participated as part of an elective course.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

One week following an interactive workshop where students learned effective hand-off strategies, students participated in an experience in which they performed a hand-off of a mock patient using simulated history and physical examination data and a brief video.

PROGRAM EVALUATION

Internal medicine residents served as standardized hand-off receivers and were trained on expectations. Students were provided feedback using a newly developed Hand-off CEX, based on the "Mini-CEX," which rates overall hand-off performance and its components on a 9-point Likert-type scale. Outcomes included performance ratings and pre- and post-student self-assessments of hand-off preparedness. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and descriptive statistics. Resident receivers rated overall student performance with a mean score of 6.75 (range 4-9, maximum 9). Statistically significant improvement was observed in self-perceived preparedness for performing an effective hand-off (67% post- vs. 27% pre-reporting 'well-prepared,' p<0.009).

DISCUSSION

This brief, standardized hand-off training exercise improved students' confidence and was rated highly by trained observers. Future work focuses on formal validation of the Hand-off CEX instrument.

ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11606-009-1170-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

CD25 deficiency causes an immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked-like syndrome, and defective IL-10 expression from CD4 lymphocytes

BACKGROUND

Immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked (IPEX) results in systemic autoimmunity from birth and can be caused by mutations in the transcription factor forkhead box P3 (FOXP3).

OBJECTIVE

To determine if Foxp3 is required for the generation of IL-10-expressing T regulatory cells.

METHODS

CD4 lymphocytes were isolated from patients with IPEX-like syndromes and activated with antibodies to CD3 and CD46 to generate IL-10-expressing T regulatory cells.

RESULTS

We describe a patient with clinical manifestations of IPEX that had a normal Foxp3 gene, but who had CD25 deficiency due to autosomal recessive mutations in this gene. This patient exhibited defective IL-10 expression from CD4 lymphocytes, whereas a Foxp3-deficient patient expressed normal levels of IL-10.

CONCLUSION

These data show that CD25 deficiency results in an IPEX-like syndrome and suggests that although Foxp3 is not required for normal IL-10 expression by human CD4 lymphocytes, CD25 expression is important.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Any patient with features of IPEX but with a normal Foxp3 gene should be screened for mutations in the IL-2 receptor subunit CD25.

DNA immunization using a non-viral promoter

Most DNA vaccines rely on strong viral promoters to optimize levels of transgene expression. Some studies have demonstrated that the potency of viral promoters does not necessarily correlate with DNA vaccine efficacy in vivo. This has partly been attributed to downregulation of these promoters by cytokines such as interferon gamma induced by the CpG motives of these vaccines. In an attempt to avoid downregulation of viral promoters by IFN-gamma, we tested vaccine vectors driven by the MHC class II promoter. To enhance the activity of this promoter, another plasmid expressing the human MHC class II transactivator driven by a viral promoter, the native IFN-gamma inducible CIITA type IV promoter (PIV) or a synthetic promoter containing IFN-gamma inducible elements was co-inoculated. Our data show that a non-viral promoter such as the MHC class II promoter tested in this study can indeed be used in DNA vaccines.

Identification of a low affinity mannose 6-phosphate-binding site in domain 5 of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor

The 300-kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) and the 46-kDa cation-dependent MPR (CD-MPR) are type I integral membrane glycoproteins that play a critical role in the intracellular delivery of newly synthesized mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P)-containing acid hydrolases to the lysosome. The extracytoplasmic region of the CI-MPR contains 15 contiguous domains, and the two high affinity ( approximately 1 nm) Man-6-P-binding sites have been mapped to domains 1-3 and 9, with essential residues localized to domains 3 and 9. Domain 5 of the CI-MPR exhibits significant sequence homology to domains 3 and 9 as well as to the CD-MPR. A structure-based sequence alignment was performed that predicts that domain 5 contains the four conserved key residues (Gln, Arg, Glu, and Tyr) identified as essential for carbohydrate recognition by the CD-MPR and domains 3 and 9 of the CI-MPR, but lacks two cysteine residues predicted to form a disulfide bond within the binding pocket. To determine whether domain 5 harbors a carbohydrate-binding site, a construct that encodes domain 5 alone (Dom5His) was expressed in Pichia pastoris. Microarray analysis using 30 different oligosaccharides demonstrated that Dom5His bound specifically to a Man-6-P-containing oligosaccharide (pentamannosyl 6-phosphate). Frontal affinity chromatography showed that the affinity of Dom5His for Man-6-P was approximately 300-fold lower (K(i) = 5.3 mm) than that observed for domains 1-3 and 9. The interaction affinity for the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucuronidase was also much lower (K(d) = 54 microm) as determined by surface plasmon resonance analysis. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the CI-MPR contains a third Man-6-P recognition site that is located in domain 5 and that exhibits lower affinity than the carbohydrate-binding sites present in domains 1-3 and 9.

Over- and ectopic expression of Wnt3 causes progressive loss of ameloblasts in postnatal mouse incisor teeth

Intercellular signaling is essential for the development of teeth during embryogenesis and in maintenance of the continuously growing incisor teeth in postnatal rodents. WNT intercellular signaling molecules have been implicated in the regulation of tooth development, and the Wnt3 gene shows specific expression in the enamel knot at the cap stage. We demonstrate here that Wnt3 also is expressed in specific epithelial cell layers in postnatal incisor teeth. To begin to delineate the functions of Wnt3 in developing and postnatal teeth, we determined the effects of over- and ectopic expression of Wnt3 in the tooth epithelium of mice carrying a keratin 14-Wnt3 transgene. Expression of the transgene caused a progressive loss of ameloblasts from postnatal lower incisor teeth. Loss of ameloblasts may be due to defective proliferation or differentiation of ameloblast precursors, progressive apoptosis of ameloblasts, or loss of ameloblast stem cells.

Biochemical and functional properties of the full-length cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor expressed in Pichia pastoris

A glycosylation-deficient, full-length cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR) containing a yeast signal sequence was expressed in Pichia pastoris using the constitutive promoter of the PGAP gene. The membrane-bound receptor was solubilized using detergents and purified by pentamannosyl phosphate-agarose affinity chromatography. Equilibrium binding studies identified a binding affinity of 2 nM for the lysosomal enzyme, beta-glucuronidase. To probe the linkage specificity of the recombinant CD-MPR, inhibition binding studies were conducted using non-phosphorylated oligomannoses which demonstrated that Manalpha1,2Man exhibits a 4-fold higher inhibition than Manalpha1,3Man and Manalpha1,6Man. The receptor was capable of associating into oligomeric forms and enzymatic deglycosylation revealed the presence of high-mannose sugars at the single potential N-glycosylation site. Mass spectrometric analysis revealed that the receptor was palmitoylated at the two potential cysteines in its cytoplasmic domain. In conclusion, the full-length CD-MPR produced in P. pastoris is structurally and functionally suitable for crystallization studies.

High-level expression and characterization of a secreted recombinant cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor in Pichia pastoris

Mannose 6-phosphate receptors (MPRs) form essential components of the lysosomal enzyme targeting system by binding newly synthesized acid hydrolases with high (nM) affinity. We report the use of Pichia pastoris as a host to efficiently express the extracytoplasmic ligand-binding domain of the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor. A truncated and glycosylation-deficient form of the receptor AF-Asn(81)/Stop(155) was secreted into the culture medium, yielding approximately 28mg/L after purification, which is an improvement of 10-100-fold compared to expression in baculovirus-infected insect cells and mammalian cells, respectively. Enzymatic deglycosylation indicated high-mannose sugars at the single potential glycosylation site of Asn 81. The extent and heterogeneity of N-glycans were revealed by applying matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). In the case of AF-Asn(81)/Stop(155), the majority (75%) of the oligosaccharides contained chain lengths of Man(8-10)GlcNAc(2) while Man(11-12)GlcNAc(2) comprised the remaining (25%) N-linked sugars. A comparative MALDI-TOF spectra of Asn(81)/Stop(155) purified from insect cells indicated that Man(2-3)GlcNAc(2) and GlcNAcMan(2-3)GlcNAc(2) share the oligosaccharide pool. The receptor isolated from yeast was functional with respect to ligand binding and acid-dependent dissociation properties, as determined by pentamannosyl phosphate-agarose affinity chromatography. In addition, the protein was biochemically and functionally similar to Asn(81)/Stop(155) expressed in insect cells concerning its oligomeric state and binding affinity to the lysosomal enzyme, beta-glucuronidase (K(d)=1.4nM). These results demonstrate that P. pastoris is a convenient system for the production of large quantities of functional recombinant MPRs suitable for structure-function studies.

Paraoxonase-2 is a ubiquitously expressed protein with antioxidant properties and is capable of preventing cell-mediated oxidative modification of low density lipoprotein

The oxidation of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins and cell membrane lipids is believed to play an integral role in the development of fatty streak lesions, an initial step in atherogenesis. We have previously shown that two antioxidant-like enzymes, paraoxonase (PON)-1 and PON3, are high density lipoprotein-associated proteins capable of preventing the oxidative modification of low density lipoprotein (LDL) (Reddy, S. T., Wadleigh, D. J., Grijalva, V., Ng, C., Hama, S., Gangopadhyay, A., Shih, D. M., Lusis, A. J., Navab, M., and Fogelman, A. M. (2001) Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol. 21, 542-547). In the present study, we demonstrate that PON2 (i) is not associated with high density lipoprotein; (ii) has antioxidant properties; and (iii) prevents LDL lipid peroxidation, reverses the oxidation of mildly oxidized LDL (MM-LDL), and inhibits the ability of MM-LDL to induce monocyte chemotaxis. The PON2 protein was overexpressed in HeLa cells using the tetracycline-inducible ("Tet-On") system, and its antioxidant capacity was measured in a fluorometric assay. Cells that overexpressed PON2 showed significantly less intracellular oxidative stress following treatment with hydrogen peroxide or oxidized phospholipid. Moreover, cells that overexpressed PON2 were also less effective in oxidizing and modifying LDL and, in fact, were able to reverse the effects of preformed MM-LDL. Our results suggest that PON2 possesses antioxidant properties similar to those of PON1 and PON3. However, in contrast to PON1 and PON3, PON2 may exert its antioxidant functions at the cellular level, joining the host of intracellular antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress.

Increased transcription of IL-8 in endothelial cells is differentially regulated by TNF-alpha and oxidized phospholipids

Oxidized 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (Ox-PAPC) upregulates a spectrum of inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules different from those induced by classic inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) or lipopolysaccharide. Interestingly, Ox-PAPC also induces the expression of a set of proteins similar to those induced by TNF-alpha or lipopolysaccharide, which include the chemokines monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and interleukin (IL)-8. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of Ox-PAPC-induced gene expression and to determine whether Ox-PAPC and other inflammatory mediators such as TNF-alpha utilize common signaling pathways, we examined the transcriptional regulation of IL-8 by Ox-PAPC and TNF-alpha in human aortic endothelial cells. Both Ox-PAPC and TNF-alpha induced the expression of IL-8 mRNA in a dose-dependent fashion; however, the kinetics of IL-8 mRNA accumulation between the 2 ligands differed. Ox-PAPC-induced IL-8 mRNA was seen as early as 30 minutes, peaked between 4 and 8 hours, and decreased substantially by 24 hours. In contrast, TNF-alpha-induced IL-8 mRNA synthesis was elevated at 30 minutes, peaked at 2 hours, and reached basal/undetectable levels by 6 hours. Actinomycin D experiments suggested that both Ox-PAPC and TNF-alpha regulate the expression of IL-8 at the transcriptional level. Furthermore, the half-life of IL-8 mRNA for both ligands was similar (<30 minutes), suggesting that mRNA stability was not responsible for the differences in the kinetics of IL-8 accumulation between the 2 ligands. Transient transfection studies with reporter constructs containing 1.48 kb of the IL-8 promoter identified an Ox-PAPC-specific response region between -133 and -1481 bp of the IL-8 promoter. In contrast, TNF-alpha activation of the IL-8 promoter was mediated almost entirely through the nuclear factor-kappaB and activation protein-1 response elements present between -70 and -133 bp of the IL-8 promoter. Thus, although Ox-PAPC and TNF-alpha both induced IL-8 synthesis, our data suggest that the 2 ligands utilize different mechanisms in the regulation of IL-8 transcription.

Modulation of omega-3/omega-6 polyunsaturated ratios with dietary fish oils in men with prostate cancer

OBJECTIVES

The results of epidemiologic and animal studies support the role of a low-fat diet supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil in preventing the development and progression of prostate cancer. As a first step in studying the role of a low-fat, fish oil-supplemented (LF/FOS) diet in a clinical setting, we conducted a prospective study in men with untreated prostate cancer to evaluate whether a 3-month dietary intervention affects the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in plasma and gluteal fat. In addition, we evaluated the feasibility of studying cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in serial prostate needle biopsy specimens before and after the diet.

METHODS

Nine men with untreated prostate cancer consumed an LF/FOS diet for 3 months. Plasma, gluteal adipose tissue, and prostate needle biopsy specimens were obtained from each patient before and after the intervention. The fatty acid compositions of the plasma and gluteal adipose tissue were determined by gas-liquid chromatography, and the COX-2 expression in the prostatic tissue specimens was determined by semiquantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Short-term intervention with an LF/FOS diet caused a significant increase in the omega-3/omega-6 fatty acid ratio in plasma (P = 0.002) and gluteal adipose tissue (P = 0.002) in men with prostate cancer. The COX-2 expression in prostatic tissue was quantitated by RT-PCR in 7 of 9 patients, and COX-2 expression decreased in 4 of these 7 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

A short-term dietary intervention in men with prostate cancer leads to a significant increase in the omega-3/omega-6 fatty acid ratios in plasma and adipose tissue. The potential for this diet to prevent the development and progression of prostate cancer by way of altered COX-2 expression and prostaglandin production in prostatic tissue requires further study.

A cell-free assay for detecting HDL that is dysfunctional in preventing the formation of or inactivating oxidized phospholipids

We have developed a novel and rapid cell-free assay of the ability of HDL to prevent the formation of or inactivate oxidized phospholipids. HDL was tested for its ability to inhibit the oxidation of LDL, or inhibit the oxidation of l-alpha-1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (PAPC) by hydroperoxyoctadecadienoic acid (HPODE), or inactivate oxidized PAPC (Ox-PAPC). In each case the fluorescent signal generated in the presence of the test substances and the test HDL was determined. As little as 2.5 microg of normal human HDL cholesterol significantly inhibited the fluorescent signal generated by Ox-PAPC; results did not differ regardless of whether the HDL was prepared by gel electrophoresis, fast protein liquid chromatography, or dextran sulfate precipitation. HDL from each of 27 patients with coronary atherosclerosis failed to inhibit the fluorescent signal generated by a control LDL, whereas HDL from each of 31 matched normal subjects with the same levels of HDL cholesterol significantly inhibited the signal. Results from an established cell-based assay (Navab, M., S. Hama, J. Cooke, G. M. Anantharamaiah, M. Chaddha, L. Jin, G. Subbanagounder, K. F. Faull, S. T. Reddy, N. E. Miller, and A. M. Fogelman. 2000. J. Lipid Res. 41: 1481-1494) were identical. HDL from the patients also failed to inhibit the fluorescent signal generated from PAPC plus HPODE (10 of 10 patients) whereas HDL from matched controls (8 of 8 patients) significantly inhibited the fluorescent signal. We conclude that this new assay has the potential to allow widespread testing of the hypothesis that HDL that is dysfunctional in preventing the formation or inactivating oxidized phospholipids may play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis.

Human paraoxonase-3 is an HDL-associated enzyme with biological activity similar to paraoxonase-1 protein but is not regulated by oxidized lipids

Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is a secreted protein associated primarily with high density lipoprotein (HDL) and participates in the prevention of low density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. Two other paraoxonase (PON) family members, namely, PON2 and PON3, have been identified. In this study, we report the cloning and characterization of the human PON3 gene from HepG2 cells. Tissue Northern analysis identifies an approximately 1.3-kb transcript for PON3 primarily in the liver. PON3-specific peptide antibodies detect an approximately 40-kDa protein associated with HDL and absent from LDL. Pretreatment of cultured human aortic endothelial cells with supernatants from HeLa Tet On cell lines overexpressing PON3 prevents the formation of mildly oxidized LDL and inactivates preformed mildly oxidized LDL. In contrast to PON1, PON3 is not active against the synthetic substrates paraoxon and phenylacetate. Furthermore, PON3 expression is not regulated in HepG2 cells by oxidized phospholipids and is not regulated in the livers of mice fed a high-fat atherogenic diet.

Normal high density lipoprotein inhibits three steps in the formation of mildly oxidized low density lipoprotein: steps 2 and 3

Treatment of human artery wall cells with apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), but not apoA-II, with an apoA-I peptide mimetic, or with high density lipoprotein (HDL), or paraoxonase, rendered the cells unable to oxidize low density lipoprotein (LDL). Human aortic wall cells were found to contain 12-lipoxygenase (12-LO) protein. Transfection of the cells with antisense to 12-LO (but not sense) eliminated the 12-LO protein and prevented LDL-induced monocyte chemotactic activity. Addition of 13(S)-hydroperoxyoctadecadienoic acid [13(S)-HPODE] and 15(S)-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid [15(S)-HPETE] dramatically enhanced the nonenzymatic oxidation of both 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PAPC) and cholesteryl linoleate. On a molar basis 13(S)-HPODE and 15(S)-HPETE were approximately two orders of magnitude greater in potency than hydrogen peroxide in causing the formation of biologically active oxidized phospholipids (m/z 594, 610, and 828) from PAPC. Purified paraoxonase inhibited the biologic activity of these oxidized phospholipids. HDL from 10 of 10 normolipidemic patients with coronary artery disease, who were neither diabetic nor receiving hypolipidemic medications, failed to inhibit LDL oxidation by artery wall cells and failed to inhibit the biologic activity of oxidized PAPC, whereas HDL from 10 of 10 age- and sex-matched control subjects did. We conclude that a) mildly oxidized LDL is formed in three steps, one of which involves 12-LO and each of which can be inhibited by normal HDL, and b) HDL from at least some coronary artery disease patients with normal blood lipid levels is defective both in its ability to prevent LDL oxidation by artery wall cells and in its ability to inhibit the biologic activity of oxidized PAPC.

Normal high density lipoprotein inhibits three steps in the formation of mildly oxidized low density lipoprotein: step 1

Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) and an apoA-I peptide mimetic removed seeding molecules from human low density lipoprotein (LDL) and rendered the LDL resistant to oxidation by human artery wall cells. The apoA-I-associated seeding molecules included hydroperoxyoctadecadienoic acid (HPODE) and hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HPETE). LDL from mice genetically susceptible to fatty streak lesion formation was highly susceptible to oxidation by artery wall cells and was rendered resistant to oxidation after incubation with apoA-I in vitro. Injection of apoA-I (but not apoA-II or murine serum albumin) into mice rendered their LDL resistant to oxidation within 3 h. Infusion of apoA-I into humans rendered their LDL resistant to oxidation within 6 h. We conclude that 1) oxidation of LDL by artery wall cells requires seeding molecules that include HPODE and HPETE; 2) LDL from mice genetically susceptible to atherogenesis is more readily oxidized by artery wall cells; and 3) normal HDL and its components can remove or inhibit the activity of lipids in freshly isolated LDL that are required for oxidation by human artery wall cells.

Transcriptional activation of the cyclooxygenase-2 gene in endotoxin-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the enzyme primarily responsible for induced prostaglandin synthesis, is an immediate early gene induced by endotoxin in macrophages. We investigated the cis-acting elements of the COX-2 5'-flanking sequence, the transcription factors and signaling pathways responsible for transcriptional activation of the COX-2 gene in endotoxin-treated murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Luciferase reporter constructs with alterations in presumptive cis-acting transcriptional regulatory elements demonstrate that the cyclic AMP-response element and two nuclear factor interleukin-6 (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)) sites of the COX-2 promoter are required for optimal endotoxin-dependent induction. In contrast, the E-box and NF-kappaB sites are not required for endotoxin-dependent induction. Inhibition of endotoxin-induced NF-kappaB activation by expression of an inhibitor-kappaB alpha mutant does not block endotoxin-dependent COX-2 reporter activity. Overexpression of c-Jun, C/EBPbeta, and C/EBPdelta enhances induction of the COX-2 reporter, while overexpression of cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein or "dominant negative" C/EBPbeta represses COX-2 induction. In addition, endotoxin rapidly and transiently elicits c-Jun phosphorylation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Cotransfection of the COX-2 reporter with dominant negative expression vectors shows that endotoxin-induced COX-2 gene expression requires signaling through a Ras-independent pathway involving the adapter protein ECSIT and the signaling kinases MEKK1 and JNK. In contrast, endotoxin-induced COX-2 reporter activity is not blocked by overexpression of dominant-negative forms of Raf-1, ERK1, or ERK2.

Transcriptional regulation of the cyclooxygenase-2 gene in activated mast cells

Activation of mast cells by aggregation of their IgE receptors induces rapid and transient synthesis of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). In this study we investigated (i) the cis-acting response elements and transcription factors active at the COX-2 promoter and (ii) the signal transduction pathways mediating COX-2 induction following aggregation of mast cell IgE receptors. Transient transfection assays with COX-2 promoter/luciferase constructs suggest that a consensus cyclic AMP response element is essential for induced COX-2 expression. Cotransfection studies with plasmids expressing c-Jun, dominant negative Ras, dominant negative c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase, and dominant negative MEKK1 demonstrate that activation of the Ras/MEKK1/c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase/c-Jun pathway is required for COX-2 promoter-mediated luciferase expression. Attenuation of COX-2 promoter activity by dominant negative constructs for Raf-1, ERK1, and ERK2 suggests that the Ras/Raf-1/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway is also necessary for COX-2 induction. Although mutating the two NF-IL6 sites individually did not affect COX-2 promoter activity, mutating both NF-IL6 sites substantially inhibits COX-2 promoter activity. Moreover, overexpression of wild type CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta (C/EBPbeta) augments COX-2 promoter activity in activated mast cells and cotransfection of a dominant negative C/EBPbeta construct completely blocks COX-2 promoter/luciferase expression. Our data suggest that in activated mast cells, a Ras/MEKK1/c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase signal transduction pathway activating c-Jun, a Ras/Raf-1/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway, and activated C/EBPbeta facilitate COX-2 induction via the cyclic AMP response element and NF-IL6 sites of the COX-2 promoter.

Identification and purification of the 69-kDa intracellular protease involved in the proteolytic processing of the crystal delta-endotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis

The dynamics of appearance of intracellular proteases in relation to the synthesis of crystal delta-endotoxin was studied to identify the native intracellular protease(s) involved in the proteolytic processing of the 73-kDa protoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis. In vitro proteolytic activation of the 73-kDa protoxin indicated the possible role of 69-kDa protease in the proteolytic processing of 73-kDa protoxin. The purified 69-kDa protease was able to cause the proteolytic activation of the 73-kDa protoxin to 68-kDa toxin and this conversion was inhibited by ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid and 1,10-phenanthroline.

Genetic evidence for distinct roles of COX-1 and COX-2 in the immediate and delayed phases of prostaglandin synthesis in mast cells

Activation of mast cells by aggregation of their high-affinity IgE receptors stimulates prostaglandin (PG) D(2) synthesis and secretion. An immediate phase of PGD(2) synthesis, complete within 30 min, is followed by a delayed, second phase of PGD(2) production that reaches a maximum 4 to 8 h after activation. Activation of mast cells from COX-2 (-/-) mice stimulates the release of PGD(2) during the first 30 min, whereas activation of mast cells from COX-1 (-/-) mice does not generate any PGD(2) in the first 2 h. On the other hand, COX-2 (-/-) cells do not participate in delayed phase of PGD(2) synthesis, while COX-1 (-/-) cells secrete low levels of PGD(2) between 2 and 4 h after activation. These data demonstrate that (i) the first phase of PG synthesis is COX-1 dependent and (ii) the second, delayed phase of PG synthesis is dependent on activation-induced synthesis and activity of COX-2.

Hypoparathyroidism, intracranial calcification, and seizures 61 years after thyroid surgery

Though hypocalcemic symptoms from hypoparathyroidism following thyroidectomy most often occur in the immediate postoperative period, hypoparathyroidism can present itself many years after the thyroid surgery with nonspecific symptoms. We present herein the case of a 74-year-old woman with previously undiagnosed hypoparathyroidism who had tonic-clonic seizures and intracranial calcification 61 years after her thyroidectomy. This case is unusual because of the long latency between thyroidectomy and clinical presentation.

The effect of CpG sequences on the B cell response to a viral glycoprotein encoded by a plasmid vector

The effect of palindromic CpG sequences on the B cell response to plasmid vectors expressing a highly immunogenic viral glycoprotein was investigated. Methylation of the CpG sequences of bacterial expression vectors abolished their ability to induce an antibody response to the transgene product in mice. The antibody response could be rescued by concomitant injection of oligonucleotides carrying immunostimulatory sequences. The B cell response to two plasmid vectors, both expressing the same viral glycoprotein but containing a different content of the highly stimulatory AACGTT motif, was compared. Comparable B cell responses were induced to the two constructs given at an optimal vaccine dose while the vector containing additional palindromic sequences resulted in higher antibody titers at a suboptimal dose. These data indicate that deletion of CpG motifs or methylation of such sequences in plasmid DNA can abrogate the immune response to the vector encoded antigen and might thus enhance their usefulness as gene therapy vehicles.

Intracellular proteases in sporulated Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis: detection and analysis by gelatin zymography

Three intracellular proteases were identified from sporulated cultures of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp tenebrionis by fractionation with ammonium sulfate. In this study, we detected protease activities at M(r) 92 kDa, 81 kDa and 69 kDa employing gelatin zymography. The major proteolytic activity was due to the 81 kDa protease, which was identified as a metalloprotease being inhibited by both 1,10-phenanthroline and ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid. The proteases showed maximal azocasein hydrolytic activity at 60 degrees C and were heat-activated from 40 degrees C to 60 degrees C. The 69 kDa and 81 kDa proteases were thermo-inactivated at 70 degrees C and 80 degrees C respectively, while the 92 kDa protease was still active at 80 degrees C.

Gastrin-releasing peptide-induced expression of prostaglandin synthase-2 in Swiss 3T3 cells

Prostaglandins, produced in response to mitogens and cytokines, are potent modulators of gastrointestinal physiology and pathophysiology. We investigated modulation of Prostaglandin synthase 2 (PGS-2) expression by the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) receptor in Swiss 3T3 cells. PGS-2 mRNA expression in Swiss 3T3 cells was determined by Northern blot analysis. PGS-2 protein expression in Swiss 3T3 cells was measured by Western blot analysis. GRP caused a transient induction of PGS-2 mRNA in Swiss 3T3 cells that resulted in GRP-dependent expression of PGS-2 protein. Transcriptional activation of PGS-2 by GRP was independent of de novo protein synthesis and was not affected by pertussis toxin. Comparison of signaling pathways used by PMA or EGF to those used by GRP showed that PGS-2 induction by GRP increased under conditions that inhibit PKC activity. Dexamethasone, which blocks PMA and EGF induction of PGS-2, also inhibited GRP-induced accumulation of PGS-2 mRNA. These results show that PGS-2 expression in Swiss 3T3 cells is not only controlled by PKC and receptor tyrosine kinase pathways but also by G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathways.

Analysis of the secretory phospholipase A2 that mediates prostaglandin production in mast cells

Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) synthesis in activated mast cells occurs in two phases, an early phase that is dependent on prostaglandin synthase 1 and a delayed phase that is dependent on activation-induced prostaglandin synthase 2 gene expression. Early phase PGD2 synthesis in activated mast cells also requires the activity of a secretory phospholipase A2 (PLA2). It has been thought that the secretory PLA2 expressed in mast cells is group IIa PLA2, encoded by the Pla2 g2a gene. However, activated bone marrow-derived mast cells prepared from Pla2 g2a+/+ mice and mast cells prepared from mice with a mutation in the Pla2 g2a gene both demonstrate early phase PGD2 synthesis. Moreover, mast cells from both murine strains secrete PLA2 activity following activation. Northern and reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrate that mast cells from Pla2 g2a+/+ and Pla2 g2a-/- mice do not express group IIa PLA2 message. Instead, Northern and reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrate that both Pla2 g2a+/+ and Pla2 g2a-/- mast cells express mRNA for group V PLA2, encoded by the Pla2gV gene. An antisense oligonucleotide directed against group V PLA2 is also able to inhibit both the early phase of PGD2 production and the secretion of PLA2 activity by activated mast cells. Our data suggest that (i) group IIa PLA2 does not play a significant role in murine mast cell prostaglandin synthesis, (ii) group V PLA2 mediates early mast cell PGD2 production and transcellular PGE2 production in murine mast cells, and (iii) much of the data, based on studies with chemical inhibitors and antibodies, suggesting that group IIa PLA2 is responsible for arachidonic acid mobilization needs to be reevaluated.

Prostaglandin synthase-1 and prostaglandin synthase-2 are coupled to distinct phospholipases for the generation of prostaglandin D2 in activated mast cells

Aggregation of IgE cell surface receptors on MMC-34 cells, a murine mast cell line, induces the synthesis and secretion of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2). Synthesis and secretion of PGD2 in activated MMC-34 cells occurs in two stages, an early phase that is complete within 30 min after activation and a late phase that reaches a maximum about 6 h after activation. The early and late phases of PGD2 generation are mediated by prostaglandin synthase 1 (PGS1) and prostaglandin synthase 2 (PGS2), respectively. Arachidonic acid, the substrate for both PGS1 and PGS2, is released from membrane phospholipids by the activation of phospholipases. We now demonstrate that in activated mast cells (i) secretory phospholipase A2 (PLA2) mediates the release of arachidonic acid for early, PGS1-dependent synthesis of PGD2; (ii) secretory PLA2 does not play a role in the late, PGS2-dependent synthesis of PGD2; (iii) cytoplasmic PLA2 mediates the release of arachidonic acid for late, PGS2-dependent synthesis of PGD2; and (iv) a cytoplasmic PLA2-dependent step precedes secretory PLA2 activation and is necessary for optimal PGD2 production by the secretory PLA2/PGS1-dependent early pathway.

Transcellular prostaglandin production following mast cell activation is mediated by proximal secretory phospholipase A2 and distal prostaglandin synthase 1

Prostaglandins mediate many biological processes. Arachidonic acid, the common precursor for all prostaglandins, is released from membrane phospholipids by both secretory and cytoplasmic forms of phospholipase A2. Free arachidonate is converted to prostaglandin H2, the common precursor to all prostanoids, by prostaglandin synthase. Both mitogen-induced prostaglandin synthesis in fibroblasts and endotoxin-induced prostaglandin synthesis in macrophages require expression of the inducible prostaglandin synthase-2; arachidonate released in these contexts is unavailable to prostaglandin synthase-1 constitutively present in fibroblasts or macrophages. In contrast to the results for fibroblasts and macrophages, prostaglandin synthesis by activated mast cells is mediated by prostaglandin synthase-1. Mast cell activation also provokes release of secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2). We now demonstrate that sPLA2 released from activated mast cells can mobilize arachidonate from distal Swiss 3T3 cells. This arachidonate is then used by prostaglandin synthase-1 present in 3T3 cells for prostaglandin synthesis. We thus distinguish two pathways for prostaglandin synthesis: (i) an intracellular pathway by which arachidonate released following ligand stimulation is made available only to prostaglandin synthase-2, and (ii) a transcellular pathway by which sPLA2 of proximal cells mobilizes, in distal cells, arachidonate available to prostaglandin synthase-1. Molecular and pharmacologic approaches to modulating prostaglandin-mediated events will differ for these two pathways.

Prostaglandin synthase 1 and prostaglandin synthase 2 both participate in activation-induced prostaglandin D2 production in mast cells

Activation of MMC-34 cells, a murine mast cell line, or bone marrow-derived mast cells by aggregation of IgE cell surface receptors or addition of calcium ionophore stimulates prostaglandin (PG) D2 synthesis and secretion. An initial rapid burst of PGD2 synthesis, complete within 30 min, is followed by a slower subsequent production of PGD2 that reaches a maximum 4 to 8 h after activation in MMC-34 cells. PG synthase 1 (PGS-1) message and protein are expressed constitutively in MMC-34 cells and are not modulated by exposure to calcium ionophore or aggregation of IgE receptors. In contrast, activation of MMC-34 or bone marrow-derived mast cells induces expression of the PG synthase 2 (PGS-2) gene. PGS-2 induction following mast cell activation is blocked by dexamethasone. The initial PGD2 burst in activated MMC-34 cells is prevented by aspirin pretreatment, suggesting that constitutive PGS-1 present in mast cells before activation is responsible for the early PGD2 production in response to activation. In contrast, the later phase of PGD2 production is blocked by dexamethasone, cycloheximide, or NS-398, a PGS-2-specific nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits PGS-2 enzyme activity but not PGS-1 activity. These data demonstrate that mast cell activation results 1) in the induction of PGS-2 gene expression, and 2) in both PGS-1-dependent PGD2 synthesis and PGD2 synthesis that is dependent on the activation-induced synthesis and activity of PGS-2.

Prostaglandin synthase 1 and prostaglandin synthase 2 both participate in activation-induced prostaglandin D2 production in mast cells

Activation of MMC-34 cells, a murine mast cell line, or bone marrow-derived mast cells by aggregation of IgE cell surface receptors or addition of calcium ionophore stimulates prostaglandin (PG) D2 synthesis and secretion. An initial rapid burst of PGD2 synthesis, complete within 30 min, is followed by a slower subsequent production of PGD2 that reaches a maximum 4 to 8 h after activation in MMC-34 cells. PG synthase 1 (PGS-1) message and protein are expressed constitutively in MMC-34 cells and are not modulated by exposure to calcium ionophore or aggregation of IgE receptors. In contrast, activation of MMC-34 or bone marrow-derived mast cells induces expression of the PG synthase 2 (PGS-2) gene. PGS-2 induction following mast cell activation is blocked by dexamethasone. The initial PGD2 burst in activated MMC-34 cells is prevented by aspirin pretreatment, suggesting that constitutive PGS-1 present in mast cells before activation is responsible for the early PGD2 production in response to activation. In contrast, the later phase of PGD2 production is blocked by dexamethasone, cycloheximide, or NS-398, a PGS-2-specific nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits PGS-2 enzyme activity but not PGS-1 activity. These data demonstrate that mast cell activation results 1) in the induction of PGS-2 gene expression, and 2) in both PGS-1-dependent PGD2 synthesis and PGD2 synthesis that is dependent on the activation-induced synthesis and activity of PGS-2.

In vivo glucocorticoids regulate cyclooxygenase-2 but not cyclooxygenase-1 in peritoneal macrophages

Acute inflammatory stimuli elevate both the production of prostaglandins and the synthesis and activity of prostaglandin synthase/cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX) in murine peritoneal macrophages. Adrenalectomy also elevates prostaglandin production, COX synthesis and COX activity in these cells. We have utilized cDNA probes and antisera specific for the products of the prostaglandin synthase/cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and TIS10/prostaglandin synthase-2/cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) genes to demonstrate that adrenalectomy causes elevation of mRNA and protein from the COX-2 gene, but not from the COX-1 gene, in peritoneal macrophages. Dexamethasone replacement suppressed the elevation of COX-2 mRNA message, COX-2 protein and the increased COX enzyme activity observed in adrenalectomized animals. In contrast, both COX-1 message and COX-1 protein levels were unaffected either by adrenalectomy or by dexamethasone administration. Thus, under normal physiological conditions, tonic glucocorticoid inhibition appears to play a major role in the in vivo regulation of the COX-2 gene. These data are consistent with COX-1 being the constitutive, housekeeping enzyme in macrophages in normal physiological conditions and with the enhanced prostaglandin synthesis seen after an inflammatory stimulus resulting from the rapid induction and activity of COX-2.

Ligand-induced prostaglandin synthesis requires expression of the TIS10/PGS-2 prostaglandin synthase gene in murine fibroblasts and macrophages

Phospholipase activation has been considered rate-limiting for ligand-stimulated prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Constitutive prostaglandin synthase EC 1.14.99.1 (PGS-1) has been thought to convert arachidonate released following ligand stimulation to PGH2. However, a second prostaglandin synthase, TIS10/PGS-2, is inducible in many cell types, including fibroblasts and macrophages. We have used antisense oligonucleotide inhibition of TIS10/PGS-2 induction to investigate the role of this enzyme in ligand-induced prostaglandin production in fibroblasts and macrophages. Antisense TIS10/PGS-2 oligonucleotides block mitogen-induced prostaglandin production and TIS10/PGS-2 protein synthesis in both Swiss 3T3 cells and murine embryo fibroblast cultures, without inhibiting either constitutive PGS-1 activity or mitogen-stimulated arachidonic acid release. TIS10/PGS-2 antisense oligonucleotides also block production of PGE2 from endogenous arachidonate following endotoxin stimulation of both RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and murine peritoneal macrophages. In contrast, the constitutive prostaglandin synthase present in macrophages is unable to convert arachidonate released following endotoxin stimulation into prostaglandin. TIS10/PGS-2 expression is necessary for both mitogen-induced prostaglandin production in murine fibroblasts and endotoxin-induced prostaglandin synthesis in macrophages. PGS-1 present in these cells cannot utilize arachidonic acid released in response to mitogen or endotoxin stimulation.

Transforming growth factor beta 1 augments mitogen-induced prostaglandin synthesis and expression of the TIS10/prostaglandin synthase 2 gene both in Swiss 3T3 cells and in murine embryo fibroblasts

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), a potent cytokine, modulates a wide variety of biological responses. Among its actions, TGF-beta can augment prostaglandin synthesis in several cell types. Although TGF-beta alone has no effect on prostaglandin production in Swiss 3T3 cells, we find that TGF-beta augments the ability of tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate (TPA) or serum to stimulate PGE2 production. The TIS10 gene is a primary response gene encoding a second form of prostaglandin synthase (PGS), the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins from arachidonic acid. TIS10/PGS-2 expression is induced by mitogens in Swiss 3T3 cells. TGF-beta also augments mitogen-induced synthesis and accumulation of TIS10/PGS-2 protein and induction of TIS10/PGS-2 message in Swiss 3T3 cells. In contrast, TGF-beta has little or no effect on the level of PGS-1 (EC1.14.99.1) message, either alone or in concert with TPA or serum. TGF-beta concentrations in the range of 0.01-0.10 ng/ml (0.4-4.0 pM) maximally enhance mitogen induction of TIS10/PGS-2 message. TPA-induced accumulation of unspliced TIS10/PGS-2 transcript is augmented by TGF-beta, suggesting that this cytokine exerts its effect on expression of the TIS10/PGS-2 gene by transcriptional regulation. TGF-beta also augments TPA-induced prostaglandin production, TIS10/PGS-2 antigen accumulation, and TIS10/PGS-2 message induction in primary cultures of mouse embryo fibroblasts. Dexamethasone attenuates TGF-beta enhancement of all these mitogen-induced responses: PGE2 accumulation, appearance of TIS10/PGS-2 protein and message, and accumulation of TIS10/PGS-2 unprocessed transcript.

TGF-beta 1 inhibits both endotoxin-induced prostaglandin synthesis and expression of the TIS10/prostaglandin synthase 2 gene in murine macrophages

Activated macrophages produce substantial quantities of paracrine mediators, including cytokines, nitric oxide, and prostaglandins. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta) is a potent modulator of immune function. TGF-beta inhibits the cytotoxic activity of endotoxin/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophage cell lines and primary macrophage cultures, reducing their expression of cytokines and nitric oxide. In this report we demonstrate that TGF-beta also attenuates the LPS-induced synthesis and secretion of prostaglandin E2 in murine RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Macrophage activation also induces accumulation of the recently described ligand-responsive prostaglandin synthase (PGS) TIS10/PGS-2. While TGF-beta alone has no effect on expression from the TIS10/PGS-2 gene, this cytokine inhibits LPS-induced TIS10/PGS-2 protein accumulation and synthesis, as well as LPS-induced TIS10/PGS-2 message accumulation in RAW 264.7 cells. TGF-beta concentrations in the range of 0.1-1.0 ng/ml (4-40 pM) maximally inhibit LPS-induced TIS10/PGS-2 message accumulation. In contrast, neither LPS nor TGF-beta has any effect on the level of PGS-1 (EC 1.14.99.1) message. TGF-beta also attenuates LPS-induced accumulation of unspliced TIS10/PGS-2 transcripts in RAW 264.7 cells, suggesting that this cytokine exerts its effects on TIS10/PGS-2 expression at the transcriptional level. TGF-beta inhibits the LPS-induced accumulation of TIS10/PGS-2 protein and message in cultured murine peritoneal macrophages, as well as in macrophage cell lines.

Synthesis, degradation, and subcellular localization of proteins encoded by the primary response genes TIS7/PC4 and TIS21/PC3

Murine TIS7 and TIS21 cDNAs were cloned from phorbol ester-induced Swiss 3T3 cells. The cognate rat cDNAs, PC4 and PC3, were cloned from nerve growth factor (NGF)-treated PC12 pheochromocytoma cells. The TIS7/PC4 and TIS21/PC3 primary response genes are rapidly and transiently induced in response to serum, phorbol esters, and polypeptide growth factors in quiescent Swiss 3T3 cells and by NGF and other ligands in PC12 cells. In both 3T3 and PC12 cells the appearance of the TIS21/PC3 message precedes that of TIS7/PC4 message following ligand stimulation, suggesting that the TIS21/PC3 protein is likely to be synthesized more rapidly than the TIS7/PC4 protein. Using antisera prepared against recombinant TIS21 and TIS7 proteins, we find that the TIS21/PC3 protein is, indeed, synthesized more rapidly than the TIS7/PC4 protein following stimulation in both 3T3 and PC12 cells. In addition, "pulse-chase" experiments demonstrate that the TIS21/PC3 protein is degraded much more rapidly than the TIS7/PC4 protein. The sequences of the predicted PC3 and PC4 proteins have lead to the speculation that these two proteins may both be secreted from cells following stimulation. The PC4 protein is reported to have some sequence similarity to interferons. The TIS21/PC3 protein contains a presumptive leader sequence. Using our antisera to the recombinant proteins, however, we cannot detect secretion of radiolabelled TIS7/PC4 or TIS21/PC3 protein. Immunohistochemical and subcellular fractionation experiments suggest that the TIS7 protein is a membrane associated, non-nuclear intracellular protein. The TIS21 protein, in contrast, is a non-nuclear, soluble intracellular protein.

Expression of the protein product of the prostaglandin synthase-2/TIS10 gene in mitogen-stimulated Swiss 3T3 cells

TIS10/PGS-2 encodes a prostaglandin synthase (PGS) distinct from the previously described enzyme PGS-1 (EC 1.14.99.1). We have now generated antipeptide antisera, directed to an amino acid sequence unique to the murine TIS10/PGS-2 protein, which specifically recognize the TIS10/PGS-2 antigen. TIS10/PGS-2 protein was undetectable in quiescent Swiss 3T3 cells. The level of TIS10/PGS-2 protein peaked between 6 and 8 h following phorbol ester stimulation of cells, then declined to basal levels after 18-24 h. Synthesis of TIS10/PGS-2 protein was dramatically increased in the second hour following mitogen stimulation and remained elevated for several hours. The half-life of the TIS10/PGS-2 protein was 4 h. Immunofluorescence studies demonstrated a perinuclear and cytoplasmic localization of the TIS10/PGS-2 antigen. As expected, detection of induced TIS10/PGS-2 antigen was dependent on protein synthesis. Metabolically labeled TIS10/PGS-2 protein migrated as a 71/73-kDa doublet following immunoprecipitation. Dexamethasone blocked both the TPA- and serum-induced appearance of TIS10/PGS-2 antigen. These studies demonstrate the existence of a mitogen-inducible, glucocorticoid-inhibitable, immunologically distinct prostaglandin synthase protein.

Expression of Rous sarcoma virus-derived retroviral vectors in the avian blastoderm: potential as stable genetic markers

Retroviruses are valuable tools in studies of embryonic development, both as gene expression vectors and as cell lineage markers. In this study early chicken blastoderm cells are shown to be permissive for infection by Rous sarcoma virus and derivative replication-defective vectors, and, in contrast to previously published data, these cells will readily express viral genes. In cultured blastoderm cells, Rous sarcoma virus stably integrates and is transcribed efficiently, producing infectious virus particles. Using replication-defective vectors encoding the bacterial lacZ gene, we further show that blastoderms can be infected in culture and in ovo. In ovo, lacZ expression is seen within 24 hr of virus inoculation, and by 96 hr stably expressing clones of cells are observed in diverse tissues throughout the embryo, including epidermis, somites, and heart, as well as in extraembryonic membranes. Given the rapid onset of vector expression and the broad range of permissive cell types, it should be feasible to use Rous sarcoma virus-derived retroviruses as early lineage markers and expression vectors beginning at the blastoderm stage of avian embryogenesis.

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) accumulation correlates with injury in the cornea

This study reports the accumulation of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in corneas injured with either 0.1 N NaOH or 1 N NaOH. The degree of injury in corneas exposed to alkali for 5, 10, 20, or 60 sec was assessed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. PAF accumulation in vivo increased with time (up to 24 hr) after injury and also according to the severity of the alkali injury. PAF was isolated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and assayed by platelet aggregation of the HPLC fraction containing PAF. The specificity of the aggregating bioactivity was ascertained from inhibition of platelet aggregation by selective PAF antagonists. BN 50726, a new synthetic PAF antagonist, applied in vivo topically or subconjunctivally, was effective in inhibiting PAF formation. Because PAF is accumulated in vivo as soon as 30 min after corneal injury, this lipid mediator seems to be synthesized by corneal cells and not be recruited inflammatory cells, since they arrive later. Moreover, if the injury causes stromal edema and endothelial damage, the amount of PAF accumulated is even greater. Results from isolated corneas stimulated in vitro with calcium ionophore A23187 suggest that PAF synthesis is the result of stimulation of phospholipase A2 to form lyso-PAF and subsequent activation of an acetyltransferase.