Cyclic Monophosphate Sodium Salt Research Articles

P-804 Endometrial recovery via implantable CD133+ stem cells scaffold in Asherman’s syndrome therapy

Abstract Study question Can we use CD133+ bone marrow derived stem cell (BMDSCs) loaded scaffolds to aid endometrial regeneration locally in Asherman syndrome (AS)? Summary answer Gelatin scaffolds supported transdifferentiation via decidualization of CD133+ BMDSCs. Implantable CD133+ scaffolds showed a certain degree of endometrial recovery in an AS rat model. What is known already We have demonstrated that CD133+ BMDSCs contribute to endometrial proliferation, and functional recovery in murine models of AS (Cervelló et al., 2015) and humans (Santamaria et al., 2016). This advanced cell therapy is already in Phase II Clinical trial regulated by EMA. Here, we use bioengineered loaded-cell scaffolds to obtain a more localized cell therapy. Study design, size, duration Gelatin scaffolds were prepared by cryogelation and analyzed by micro-computed tomography. For in vitro studies, CD133+ were cultured into the scaffolds and decidualized with 1 mM of 8-Bromoadenosine 3´5´-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (cAMP) for 7 days. For studies in vivo, the scaffolds used as the control group (gelatin scaffold only) and the CD133+ loaded gelatin scaffolds were implanted into acid-damaged horns of rat AS induced model followed after one and three weeks. Participants/materials, setting, methods DNA quantification was carried out for cell viability on the scaffolds, whereas immunofluorescence, single cell RNA sequencing and RT-qPCR were used to assess decidualization. For studies in vivo, endometrial recovery was screened by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E) and RT-qPCR. Main results and the role of chance Cell spreading and proliferation was observed in gelatin loaded scaffolds due to its high pore size and similarity to the native extracellular matrix. IGFBP1 and Prolactin expression determined by immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR demonstrated that gelatin scaffold supported decidualization of CD133 into stromal decidual cells. Additionally, single cell data revealed a higher expression of stromal specific canonical markers (ENG, CXCL12, PDGFRB) and decidual associated genes (IRS2, COCH) in the decidualized scaffold. During the in vivo studies of the implanted scaffolds in a rat model of AS, we studied a set of inflammatory genes and paracrine secretory molecules. For the CD133+ loaded gelatin scaffold, we obtained a decrease in the expression of NF-kB (p ≤ 0.01). Additionally, the number of glands as well as endometrial thickness showed an increasing trend for the bioengineered cell loaded scaffolds after 3 weeks of implantation. Limitations, reasons for caution Endometrial functionality should be further analysed to needed full endometrial recovery. Wider implications of the findings Our bioengineered scaffolds mimic the native extracellular matrix, contributing to the viability, proliferation and decidualization of CD133+ BMDSCs. The herein implanted CD133+ BMDSCs scaffolds open new avenues to localized cell therapy for endometrial regeneration, especially for AS patients. Trial registration number Not applicable

Linolenic Acid Attenuates the Vasodilation Induced by Acetylcholine in Isolated Rat Aortae.

This study aims to examine the effect of linolenic acid on the vasodilation or vasoconstriction induced by acetylcholine and bupivacaine in isolated rat aortae and its underlying mechanism. The effect of linolenic acid on the vasodilation induced by acetylcholine, the calcium ionophore A23187, sodium nitroprusside, and 8-bromoguanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (bromo-cyclic guanosine monophosphate [bromo-cGMP]) in endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortae was examined. Linolenic acid inhibited vasodilation induced by acetylcholine, calcium ionophore A23187, and sodium nitroprusside. However, this fatty acid increased bromo-cGMP-induced vasodilation in endothelium-denuded aortae. Linolenic acid increased bupivacaine-induced contraction in endothelium-intact aortae, whereas it decreased bupivacaine-induced contraction in endothelium-intact aortae with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester and endothelium-denuded aortae. Linolenic acid inhibited acetylcholine- and bupivacaine-induced phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Sodium nitroprusside increased cGMP in endothelium-denuded aortic strips, whereas bupivacaine decreased cGMP in endothelium-intact aortic strips. Linolenic acid decreased cGMP levels produced by bupivacaine and sodium nitroprusside. Together, these results suggest that linolenic acid inhibits acetylcholine-induced relaxation by inhibiting a step just prior to nitric oxide-induced cGMP formation. In addition, linolenic acid-mediated inhibition of vasodilation induced by a toxic concentration (3 × 10−4 M) of bupivacaine seems to be partially associated with inhibition of the nitric oxide–cGMP pathway.

Coordination capacity of cytosine, adenine and derivatives towards open-paddlewheel diruthenium compounds

[Ru2Cl2(DPhF)3] (DPhF = diphenylformamidinate) links preferentially to the junctions of RNA (ribonucleic acid) structures, although the bonding mode is not known. In order to clarify this question the reactions between [Ru2Cl2(DPhF)3] and cytosine (Hcyto), cytidine (Hcyti), cytidine 2′,3′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (NacCMP), adenine (Hade), adenosine (Haden) and adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (HcAMP) have been carried out. In the resultant complexes, cyto (cytosinate), cyti (cytidinate), cCMP (cytidine 2′,3′-cyclic monophosphate monoanion), ade (adeninate), aden (adenosinate) and cAMP (deprotonated adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate) are bonded to the diruthenium unit as N,N′-bridging ligands, as confirmed by the solution of the crystal structures of [RuCl(DPhF)3(cyto)] and [RuCl(DPhF)3(ade)] by X-ray diffraction. The axial positions of the diruthenium species are still available for additional interactions with other residues that could explain its preference towards RNA junctions.

Crosstalk between human endometrial stromal cells and decidual NK cells promotes decidualization invitro by upregulating IL‑25.

Embryo implantation is essential for a successful pregnancy, and leads to the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. It has previously been demonstrated that decidual stromal cells (DSCs) co-express interleukin (IL)-25/IL-17RB and that IL-25 further promotes the proliferation of DSCs via activating c-Jun n-terminal kinase and protein kinase B signals, therefore the present study primarily focused on the role of IL-25 in the process of decidualization in vitro. It was demonstrated that the expression of IL-25/IL-17RB in ESCs was decreased compared with DSCs. In addition, following decidualization, the expression levels of IL-25/IL-17RB in ESCs were significantly elevated. Recombinant human (rh) IL-25 promoted the decidualization of ESCs in the presence of 8-bromoadenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt and 6α-methyl17α-acetoxyprogesterone, which was partially inhibited by anti-human IL-25 neutralizing antibody (anti-IL-25) or anti-IL-17RB. In addition, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells not only secreted IL-25, however also further accelerated the decidualization in vitro. Therefore, these findings indicated that ESCs differentiate into DSCs in the presence of ovarian hormones, resulting in the upregulation of IL-25/IL-17RB expression in ESCs. Furthermore, IL-25 secreted by ESCs and dNK cells further facilitates the decidualization of ESCs, which may form a positive feedback mechanism at the maternal-fetal interface and thus contribute to the establishment and maintenance of normal pregnancy.

Immobilized enzyme reactors based on monoliths: Effect of pore size and enzyme loading on biocatalytic process.

Macroporous monolithic columns with different mean pore size (from 360 to 2020nm) and appropriate flow-through properties were synthesized using free radical in situ copolymerization of glycidyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and ethylene dimethacrylate. In order to predict the composition of porogen mixture to generate the pores in the interested size interval, the Hildebrand theory was used. Ribonuclease A and its specific low- and macromolecular substrates cytidine-2',3'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt and RNA were applied as model system. The effect of mean pore size of macroporous monoliths used for enzyme immobilization on molecular recognition and biocatalytic characteristics was examined. The monitoring of RNA degradation was performed using anion-exchange HPLC on monolithic CIM DEAE analytical column. The high efficiency of heterogeneous biocatalysts obtained comparatively to the catalytic reaction of RNA degradation in solution was demonstrated. Additionally, the series of six monolithic immobilized enzyme reactors with different amount of biocatalyst was prepared and studied regarding to the biocatalytic properties at recirculation mode at two experimental variants, e.g. (i) fixed range of concentrations of circulated substrate solutions, and (ii) fixed range of substrate/enzyme molar ratios.

Sildenafil Prevents Podocyte Injury via PPAR-γ-Mediated TRPC6 Inhibition.

Transient receptor potential channel C6 (TRPC6) gain-of-function mutations and increased TRPC6 expression in podocytes induce glomerular injury and proteinuria. Sildenafil reduces TRPC6 expression and activity in nonrenal cell types, although the mechanism is unknown. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) is a downstream target of sildenafil in the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-activated protein kinase G (PKG) axis. PPAR-γ agonists, like pioglitazone, appear antiproteinuric. We hypothesized that sildenafil inhibits TRPC6 expression in podocytes through PPAR-γ-dependent mechanisms, thereby counteracting podocyte injury and proteinuria. Treatment with sildenafil, the cGMP derivative 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (8-Br-cGMP), or pioglitazone dose-dependently downregulated podocyte injury-induced TRPC6 expression in vitro Knockdown or application of antagonists of PKG or PPAR-γ enhanced TRPC6 expression in podocytes and counteracted effects of sildenafil and 8-Br-cGMP. We observed similar effects on TRPC6 promoter activity and TRPC6-dependent calcium influx. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed PPAR-γ binding to the TRPC6 promoter. Sildenafil or pioglitazone treatment prevented proteinuria and the increased TRPC6 expression in rats with adriamycin-induced nephropathy and mice with hyperglycemia-induced renal injury. Rats receiving PPAR-γ antagonists displayed proteinuria and increased podocyte TRPC6 expression, as did podocyte-specific PPAR-γ knockout mice, which were more sensitive to adriamycin and not protected by sildenafil. Thus, sildenafil ameliorates podocyte injury and prevents proteinuria through cGMP- and PKG-dependent binding of PPAR-γ to the TRPC6 promoter, which inhibits TRPC6 promoter activity, expression, and activity. Because sildenafil is approved for clinical use, our results suggest that additional clinical study of its antiproteinuric effect in glomerular disease is warranted.

Effects on larval metamorphosis in the musselMytilus coruscusof compounds that act on downstream effectors of G-protein-coupled receptors

The metamorphic responses of mussel (Mytilus coruscus) larvae to pharmacological agents affecting G proteins and the adenylate cyclase/cyclic AMP (AC/cAMP) pathway were examined in the laboratory. The G protein activators guanosine 5′-[β,γ-imido]triphosphate trisodium salt hydrate and guanosine 5′-[γ-thio]triphosphate tetralithium salt only induced larval metamorphosis in continuous exposure assays, and the G protein inhibitor guanosine 5′-[β-thio]diphosphate trilithium salt did not exhibit inducing activity. The non-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor theophylline and the cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase IV inhibitor 4-(3-Butoxy-4-methoxybenzyl)imidazolidin-2-one exhibited inducing activity, while the non-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-Isobutyl-1-methylxanthine only showed inducing activity at 10−4M in continuous exposure assays. The cyclic nucleotide analogue N6,2′-O-Dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt did not exhibit significant inducing activity. Both the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin and the adenylate cyclase inhibitor nitroimidazole exhibited inducing activity at 10−4to 10−3M concentrations in continuous exposure assays. Among these tested agents, the adenylate cyclase inhibitor (±)-miconazole nitrate salt showed the most promising inducing effect. The present results indicate that G protein-coupled receptors and signal transduction by AC/cAMP pathway could mediate metamorphosis of larvae in this species.

Tumor necrosis factor reduces Plasmodium falciparum growth and activates calcium signaling in human malaria parasites

BackgroundPlasmodium has a complex biology including the ability to interact with host signals modulating their function through cellular machinery. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) elicits diverse cellular responses including effects in malarial pathology and increased infected erythrocyte cytoadherence. As TNF levels are raised during Plasmodium falciparum infection we have investigated whether it has an effect on the parasite asexual stage. MethodsFlow cytometry, spectrofluorimetric determinations, confocal microscopy and PCR real time quantifications were employed for characterizing TNF induced effects and membrane integrity verified by wheat germ agglutinin staining. ResultsTNF is able to decrease intracellular parasitemia, involving calcium as a second messenger of the pathway. Parasites incubated for 48h with TNF showed reduced erythrocyte invasion. Thus, TNF induced rises in intracellular calcium concentration, which were blocked by prior addition of the purinergic receptor agonists KN62 and A438079, or interfering with intra- or extracellular calcium release by thapsigargin or EGTA (ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid). Importantly, expression of PfPCNA1 which encodes the Plasmodium falciparum Proliferating-Cell Nuclear Antigen 1, decreased after P. falciparum treatment of TNF (tumor necrosis factor) or 6-Bnz cAMP (N6-benzoyladenosine-3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt). ConclusionsThis is potentially interesting data showing the relevance of calcium in downregulating a gene involved in cellular proliferation, triggered by TNF. General significanceThe data show that Plasmodium may subvert the immunological system and use TNF for the control of its proliferation within the vertebrate host.

Oximes induce erection and are resistant to oxidative stress.

Because of their nitric oxide (NO)-donating capacities, oxime derivatives have shown to offer some therapeutic perspective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) as well as cardiovascular diseases. However, to date the in vivo effect of these oximes on erectile function remains unknown. In many disease states oxidative stress occurs, impairing NO-mediated relaxations. Hence the influence of oxidative stress on oxime-induced effects is also of interest. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo effect of formaldoxime (FAL) and formamidoxime (FAM) on blood pressure and intracavernosal pressure (ICP); and to examine the role of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and the influence of oxidative stress on the FAL and FAM responses. Blood pressure and ICP were monitored in vivo after resp. intravenous or intracavernosal injection of FAL and FAM. Moreover isometric tension was measured in vitro on isolated mice corpora cavernosa (CC), thoracic aorta, and femoral artery in organ baths. The role of sGC was investigated using transgenic mice lacking the alpha 1 subunit of sGC. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and ICP were measured after FAL/FAM injection. In vitro relaxation of CC strips was evaluated in response to addition of FAL/FAM. In vivo both FAL and FAM elicit a dose-dependent lowering of blood pressure (maximal ΔMAP: 33.66 ± 4.07 mm Hg [FAL] and 20.43 ± 2.06 mm Hg [FAM] ) as well as an increase of ICP (maximal increase of ICP/MAP: 70.29 ± 2.88% [FAL] and 52.91 ± 8.61% [FAM] ). The FAL/FAM effect is significantly lower in knockout vs. wild-type mice. Oxidative stress has an inhibitory effect on corporal NO-mediated relaxations induced by electrical field stimulation, acetylcholine, and sodium nitroprusside whereas the responses to 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt, FAL and FAM were not influenced. Oximes induce erection which is mediated by sGC. The oxime-induced relaxations are resistant to oxidative stress, which increases their therapeutic potential for the treatment of ED.

Switching the enzymatic activity of ribonuclease a based on enzyme/polymer complex formation

Context: Enzymes are ideal for various applications in both medicine and biotechnology. Switching on/off the enzymatic activity of enzymes by polymeric modification would expand the applications of enzymes in a wide range of research fields. Objectives: On/off switching the enzymatic activity of RNase A and the confirmation of the enzyme/polymer complex formation which leads to improve the heat resistance of RNase A. Materials and Methods: ?-Methoxy-?-methacryloyl poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG-MA) macromonomer and PEAMA-g-PEG were synthesized. Bovine RNase A, cytidine 2?,3?-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (cCMP), and 3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid (MOPS) were obtained from Sigma Chemical Co. (St. Louis, USA). PAAc (Mn = 5,000 g/mol) were purchased from Wako (Osaka, Japan). Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate (NaH2PO4.2H2O) was obtained from Nacalai Tesque Inc. (Kyoto, Japan). The enzymatic activity of RNase A was estimated as follows. The RNase A concentration was determined by measuring the absorbance at 280 nm with an appropritate blank, using an extinction coefficient of 7.10 mL mg-1 cm-1. A total of 1.5 mL of 0.1 mg/mL cCMP solution prepared in 0.1 M MOPS (pH 7.0) was mixed with 10 ?L of the RNase A solution in 50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). The increase in light scattering intensity of the solution was monitored by measuring the absorbance at 284 nm for 60 s in a UV-vis spectrophotometer at room temperature. After heat treatment, the enzymatic activities were measured. Far-UV and near-UV CD spectra were monitored using a spectropolarimeter (model J-720W; Jasco, Tokyo, Japan). Results: We have found that poly (acrylic acid) (PAAc) suppressed the enzymatic activity of RNase A completely and the recovery of enzymatic activity were observed (94%) by the external addition of PEAMA-g-PEG to the RNase A/PAAc complex. Our present findings suggest that the complexation between PEAMA-g-PEG and RNase A has occurred which improve the heat resistance (64%) of RNase A. Heat treatment has been carried out at 98°C for 10 minutes where the native RNase A lost all of its enzymatic activity. CD spectral analysis also indicates that the conformation of the enzyme was not altered due to the complexation. Conclusion: Poly (N,N-diethylaminoethyl methacrylate)-graft-poly (ethylene glycol) (PEAMA-g-PEG) restored the enzymatic activity of RNase A completely which was inactivated upon the addition of poly(acrylic acid) (PAAc) to RNase A. Complexation of RNase A with PEAMA-g-PEG induced the improvement of heat resistance of RNase A . Circular dichroism (CD) spectral analysis clearly indicated that the complexation of enzyme with polymer has almost no influence on the conformation of enzyme. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v20i0.17650 J. bio-sci. 20: 33-39, 2012

Sildenafil Inhibits Hypoxia-Induced Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Protein Expression in Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle via cGMP-PKG-PPARγ Axis

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) proteins play important roles in chronically hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (CHPH). Previous results indicated that sildenafil inhibited TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression in rat distal pulmonary arteries (PAs). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. We undertook this study to investigate the downstream signaling of sildenafil's regulation on TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Hypoxia-exposed rats (10% O2 for 21 d) and rat distal PASMCs (4% O2 for 60 h) were taken as models to mimic CHPH. Real-time PCR, Western blotting, and Fura-2-based fluorescent microscopy were performed for mRNA, protein, and Ca(2+) measurements, respectively. The cellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) analogue 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (CPT-cGMP) (100 μM) inhibited TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression, store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE), and the proliferation and migration of PASMCs exposed to prolonged hypoxia. The inhibition of CPT-cGMP on TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression in PASMCs was relieved by either the inhibition or knockdown of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) expression. Under hypoxic conditions, CPT-cGMP increased PPARγ expression. This increase was abolished by the PKG antagonists Rp8 or KT5823. PPARγ agonist GW1929 significantly decreased TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression in PASMCs. Moreover, hypoxia exposure decreased, whereas sildenafil treatment increased, PKG and PPARγ expression in PASMCs ex vivo, and in rat distal PAs in vivo. The suppressive effects of sildenafil on TRPC1 and TRPC6 in rat distal PAs and on the hemodynamic parameters of CHPH were inhibited by treatment with the PPARγ antagonist T0070907. We conclude that sildenafil inhibits TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression in PASMCs via cGMP-PKG-PPARγ-dependent signaling during CHPH.

Ilk conditional deletion in adult animals increases cyclic GMP-dependent vasorelaxation

Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) regulates proliferation, differentiation, cell adhesion, and motility in many cell types and has been related to cancer progression, fibrosis, and vascular diseases. We designed the present study to directly explore the effect of ILK deletion on the regulation of vascular tone through the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) /protein kinase G (PKG) pathway in healthy adult mice. Experiments were carried out using a tamoxifen-inducible CRE-LOX system to conditionally delete the ILK gene in adult mice. Mice lacking ILK expression (cKO) presented increased vascular content and increased activity of sGC and PKG, resulting in a more intense vasodilatory response to a single dose of a nitric oxide (NO) donor [sodium nitroprusside (SNP)] or PKG agonist [8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (8-Br)]. Five minutes after SNP or 8-Br administration the reduction in the systolic arterial pressure was enhanced in cKO mice (SNP WT: -7.4 ± 1.2 mmHG; SNP cKO: -14.0 ± 2.5; 8-Br WT: -2.9 ± 1.5 mmHG; 8-Br cKO: -10.0 ± 3.4 mmHG). ILK deletion restored the vascular response to SNP after chronic oral nitrite administration. In addition, ILK deletion also increased hypotensive SNP effect in angiotensin II-treated animals, suggesting a role for ILK in basal and pathological states. Deletion of ILK in adult animals increased the vascular response to NO. These findings show, for the first time, a requirement for ILK in regulating sGC-PKG expression in vivo.

Superoxide Anion Production by NADPH Oxidase Plays a Major Role in Erectile Dysfunction in Middle-Aged Rats: Prevention by Antioxidant Therapy

INTRODUCTION.: Prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) increases progressively with aging, but the ED pathophysiology at its early stages is still poorly investigated. AIM.: This study aimed to evaluate the functional and molecular alterations of erectile function at middle age, focusing on the contribution of oxidative stress in erectile tissue for the ED. METHODS.: Young (3.5-month) and middle-aged (10-month) male Wistar rats were used. Rat corpus cavernosum (RCC) was dissected free and mounted in 10-mL organ baths containing Krebs solution. Intracavernosal pressure (ICP) in anesthetized rats was evaluated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES.: Concentration-response curves to endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent agents, as well as to electrical field stimulation (EFS), were obtained in RCC strips. Measurement of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and expressions of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial NOS (eNOS), gp91(phox) and superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) expressions in RCC were evaluated. RESULTS.: ICP was significantly reduced in middle-aged compared with young rats. RCC relaxations to acetylcholine (10(-8) to 10(-2) M), sodium nitroprusside (10(-8) to 10(-2) M), sildenafil (10(-9) to 10(-5) M), BAY 41-2272 (10(-9) to 10(-5) M), and EFS (4-32 Hz) were decreased in middle-aged group, which were nearly normalized by apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitor; 10(-4) M) or SOD (75 U/mL). Prolonged treatment with apocynin (85 mg/rat/day, 4 weeks) also restored the impaired relaxations in middle-aged rats. Relaxations to 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (8-Br-cGMP; 10(-8) to 3 × 10(-4) M) remained unchanged between groups. Basal and stimulated cGMP production were lower in middle-aged group, an effect fully restored by apocynin and SOD. Protein expression of nNOS and phosphorylated eNOS (p-eNOS) (Ser-1177) reduced, whereas gp(91phox) mRNA expression increased in RCC from middle-aged rats. CONCLUSIONS.: ED in middle-aged rats is associated with decreased NO bioavailability in erectile tissue due to upregulation of NADPH oxidase subunit gp91(phox) and downregulation of nNOS/p-eNOS. Antioxidant therapies may be a good pharmacological approach to prevent ED at its early stages.

The Akt-Nitric Oxide-cGMP Pathway Contributes to Nerve Growth Factor-Mediated Neurite Outgrowth in Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice

Apolipoprotein E (apo)-deficient [apoE(-/-)] mice have peripheral sensory nerve defects and a reduced and delayed response to noxious thermal stimuli. However, to date, no report has focused on the influence of apoE deficiency on calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-containing nerve fiber extensions. We have shown that the density of CGRP-containing nerve fibers decreases in mesenteric arteries of apoE(-/-) mice compared with wild-type mice. Here, we investigated whether apoE deficiency is involved in nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced CGRP-containing nerve regeneration using apoE(-/-) mice. NGF-mediated CGRP-like immunoreactivity (LI)-neurite outgrowth in apoE(-/-) cultured dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cells was significantly lower than that in wild-type cultures. However, the level of NGF receptor mRNA in apoE(-/-) DRG cells was similar to that in wild-type mice. To clarify the mechanism of the impaired ability of NGF-mediated neurite outgrowth, we focused on the Akt-nitric oxide (NO)-cGMP pathway. Expression of phosphorylated Akt was significantly reduced in apoE(-/-) DRG. The NO donor, sodium nitroprusside or S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine, did not affect NGF-mediated neurite outgrowth in apoE(-/-) cultured DRG cells. However, 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt n-hydrate, a cGMP analog, induced NGF-mediated nerve facilitation similar to wild-type NGF-mediated neurite outgrowth levels. Furthermore, in apoE(-/-) DRG, soluble guanylate cyclase expression was significantly lower than that in wild-type DRG. These results suggest that in apoE(-/-) mice the Akt-NO-cGMP pathway is impaired, which may be caused by NGF-mediated CGRP-LI-neurite outgrowth defects.

Activation of the VIP/VPAC2 system induces reactive astrocytosis associated with increased expression of glutamate transporters

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a pleiotropic neuropeptide that acts as a neuromodulator in the CNS. Recently, secretion of several functional molecules has been identified in VIP-stimulated astrocytes in vitro. However, the relationship between VIP and its specific receptors in neurological disorders remains unknown. To investigate the role of the VIP system under pathological conditions, we performed a cold injury on the right cerebrum of adult C57BL/6 mice and observed expression patterns for VIP and its receptor, VPAC2. Immunohistochemical studies revealed VPAC2 expression in reactive astrocytes around the core lesion by post-injury day 7, which then returned to contralateral levels at post-injury day 14. By contrast, VIP immunoreactivity was detected in activated microglial cells, suggesting that microglia–astrocyte interactions in the VIP/VPAC2 system are important for the tissue repair process. In primary cultured astrocytes stimulated with N6,2′-O-dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (dbcAMP) to mimic reactive astrocytosis, VPAC2 mRNA expression was highly up-regulated compared to that of the other VIP receptors, PAC1 and VPAC1. VPAC2 activation by the selective VPAC2 agonist, Ro25-1553, induced reactive morphological and biochemical changes from a polygonal shape to a stellate shape in cultured astrocytes. Further, Ro25-1553 increased cell surface expression of the glutamate transporters GLAST and GLT-1, which can limit excitotoxic neuronal cell death. In summary, the transient expression of VPAC2 in reactive astrocytes and the up-regulation of functional glutamate transporters suggest that the VIP/VPAC2 system induces reactive astrocytosis and plays a key role in neuroprotection against excitotoxicity in neurological disorders.

Angiotensin‐(1–7) increases neuronal potassium current via a nitric oxide‐dependent mechanism

Angiotensin 1–7 [Ang‐(1–7)] signaling in the brain may play an important protective role in cardiovascular diseases by decreasing sympathetic output. It is generally well‐accepted that nitric oxide (NO•) in the brain functions as a sympatho‐inhibitory molecule. We hypothesized that Ang‐(1–7) increases NO• in neurons and modulates neuronal activity. We tested this hypothesis in catecholaminergic CATH.a neurons. Protein analysis revealed these neurons express the Ang‐(1–7) receptor (MasR) and three isoforms of NO• synthase (nNOS, eNOS, iNOS). Expression of MasR, nNOS, and eNOS protein markedly increased in CATH.a neurons following six days of differentiation with N6,2′‐O‐Dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (dbcAMP, 1 mM). As measured by DAF‐FM fluorescence and confocal microscopy, Ang‐(1–7) (100 nM) increased NO• levels in differentiated CATH.a neurons (31 ± 3%; P<0.05 vs. baseline) and this response was attenuated (P<0.05) by the MasR antagonist A779 (5 ± 3%), non‐specific NOS inhibitor (L‐NAME; −5 ± 1%), and nNOS inhibitor (SMTC; −5 ± 7%). Using the whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique, we observed that Ang‐(1–7) increased outward K+ current (IKv) in differentiated CATH.a neurons (53 ± 6% increase; P<0.05 vs. vehicle). These findings indicate that Ang‐(1–7) increases nNOS‐dependent NO• levels via MasR activation and elevates IKv in differentiated CATH.a neurons. NIH P01HL062222

Different role of cAMP dependent protein kinase and CaMKII in H3 receptor regulation of histamine synthesis and release

Histamine H3 autoreceptors induce a negative feedback on histamine synthesis and release. While it is known that cAMP/cAMP dependent protein kinase (PKA) and Ca2+/CaMKII transduction pathways mediate H3 effects on histamine synthesis, the pathways regulating neuronal histamine release are poorly known. Given the potential use of H3 ligands in cognitive diseases, we have developed a technique for the determination of H3 effects on histamine synthesis and release in brain cortical miniprisms. Potassium-induced depolarization effects were impaired by blockade of calcium entry through N and P/Q channels, as well as of CaMKII, but release was not affected by activators or inhibitors of the cAMP/PKA pathway (1-methyl-3-isobutylxanthine (IBMX), N6,2′-O-dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (db–cAMP) or myristoyl PKA inhibitor peptide 14-22 (PKI14-22). In contrast, forskolin stimulated histamine release, although independently of PKA. Stimulation of histamine H3 receptors with the agonist imetit markedly reduced the depolarization increase of histamine release, apparently through P/Q calcium channel inhibition. The H3 antagonist/inverse agonist thioperamide modestly stimulated histamine release. Thioperamide effect on release was not modified by the PKA inhibitor PKI14-22, but it was blocked by the CaMKII inhibitor KN-62. These results indicate that H3 autoreceptors regulate neuronal histamine release (1) independently of the cAMP/PKA cascade, and (2) through modulation of calcium entry and CaMKII activation during depolarization.

APPL1 Potentiates Insulin-Mediated Inhibition of Hepatic Glucose Production and Alleviates Diabetes via Akt Activation in Mice

Hepatic insulin resistance is the major contributor to fasting hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. Here we report that the endosomal adaptor protein APPL1 increases hepatic insulin sensitivity by potentiating insulin-mediated suppression of the gluconeogenic program. Insulin-stimulated activation of Akt and suppression of gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes are enhanced by APPL1 overexpression, but are attenuated by APPL1 knockdown. APPL1 interacts with Akt and blocks the association of Akt with its endogenous inhibitor tribble 3 (TRB3) through direct competition, thereby promoting Akt translocation to the plasma membrane and the endosomes for further activation. In db/db diabetic mice, the blockage of the augmented interaction between Akt and TRB3 by hepatic overexpression of APPL1 is accompanied by a marked attenuation of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. These results suggest that the potentiating effects of APPL1 on insulin-stimulated suppression of hepatic glucose production are attributed to its ability in counteracting the inhibition of Akt activation by TRB3.

Switching of G-protein Usage by the Calcium-sensing Receptor Reverses Its Effect on Parathyroid Hormone-related Protein Secretion in Normal Versus Malignant Breast Cells

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that signals in response to extracellular calcium and regulates parathyroid hormone secretion. The CaR is also expressed on normal mammary epithelial cells (MMECs), where it has been shown to inhibit secretion of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and participate in the regulation of calcium and bone metabolism during lactation. In contrast to normal breast cells, the CaR has been reported to stimulate PTHrP production by breast cancer cells. In this study, we confirmed that the CaR inhibits PTHrP production by MMECs but stimulates PTHrP production by Comma-D cells (immortalized murine mammary cells) and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. We found that changes in intracellular cAMP, but not phospholipase C or MAPK signaling, correlated with the opposing effects of the CaR on PTHrP production. Pharmacologic stimulation of cAMP accumulation increased PTHrP production by normal and transformed breast cells. Inhibition of protein kinase A activity mimicked the effects of CaR activation on inhibiting PTHrP secretion by MMECs and blocked the effects of the CaR on stimulating PTHrP production in Comma-D and MCF-7 cells. We found that the CaR coupled to Galphai in MMECs but coupled to Galphas in Comma-D and MCF-7 cells. Thus, the opposing effects of the CaR on PTHrP production are because of alternate G-protein coupling of the receptor in normal versus transformed breast cells. Because PTHrP contributes to hypercalcemia and bone metastases, switching of G-protein usage by the CaR may contribute to the pathogenesis of breast cancer.

Regulation of protein kinases and coregulatory interplay of S‐100β and serotonin transporter on serotonin levels in diabetic rat brain

Protein kinases are critical component in the regulation of signal transduction pathways, including neurotransmitters. Our previous studies have shown that serotonin (5-HT) altered under diabetic condition was accompanied by alterations of protein kinase C-alpha (PKC-alpha) and CaMKII, and those alterations were reversed after insulin administration. The current study showed that alloxan-induced diabetic animals revealed hyperglycemia and was associated with an increase in the content of 5-HT, PKC-alpha expression and PKC activity (P < 0.05) simultaneously in striatum (ST), midbrain (MB), pons medulla (PM), cerebellum (CB), and cerebral cortex (CCX) from 7 days to 60 days. Although the 5-HT levels in hippocampus (HC) and hypothalamus (HT) were not altered, the PKC-alpha expression and PKC activity showed increases (P < 0.05) in level in HC. Insulin administration reversed all these changes to a normal level. In contrast, the in vitro study has shown that the 5-HT levels correlated with PKC-alpha expressions as well as PKC activity (P < 0.05) only in ST, MB, and CB either after induction with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or blocking with chelerythrine, whereas PM and CCX remained elevated (P < 0.05), implying a regulatory role for PKC-alpha only in ST, MB, and CB. However, our consecutive studies have shown that the 5-HT level in PM was regulated by p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) both in vivo and in vitro, whereas the 5-HT level in CCX was coregulated by S-100beta by protein-protein interaction with serotonin transporter (SERT) via 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium salt (8-Br-cAMP)-induced cAMP/PKAII pathway(s).