Depletion Of Extracellular Ca2 Research Articles

Modification of the synaptic cleft under excitatory conditions.

The synaptic cleft is the extracellular part of the synapse, bridging the pre- and postsynaptic membranes. The geometry and molecular organization of the cleft is gaining increased attention as an important determinant of synaptic efficacy. The present study by electron microscopy focuses on short-term morphological changes at the synaptic cleft under excitatory conditions. Depolarization of cultured hippocampal neurons with high K+ results in an increased frequency of synaptic profiles with clefts widened at the periphery (open clefts), typically exhibiting patches of membranes lined by postsynaptic density, but lacking associated presynaptic membranes (18.0% open clefts in high K+ compared to 1.8% in controls). Similarly, higher frequencies of open clefts were observed in adult brain upon a delay of perfusion fixation to promote excitatory/ischemic conditions. Inhibition of basal activity in cultured neurons through the application of TTX results in the disappearance of open clefts whereas application of NMDA increases their frequency (19.0% in NMDA vs. 5.3% in control and 2.6% in APV). Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ with EGTA also promotes an increase in the frequency of open clefts (16.6% in EGTA vs. 4.0% in controls), comparable to that by depolarization or NMDA, implicating dissociation of Ca2+-dependent trans-synaptic bridges. Dissociation of transsynaptic bridges under excitatory conditions may allow perisynaptic mobile elements, such as AMPA receptors to enter the cleft. In addition, peripheral opening of the cleft would facilitate neurotransmitter clearance and thus may have a homeostatic and/or protective function.

The Impact of Ca2+ on Intracellular Distribution of Hemoglobin in Human Erythrocytes.

The membrane-bound hemoglobin (Hb) fraction impacts red blood cell (RBC) rheology and metabolism. Therefore, Hb-RBC membrane interactions are precisely controlled. For instance, the signaling function of membrane-bound deoxy-Hb and the structure of the docking sites in the cytosolic domain of the anion exchanger 1 (AE-1) protein are well documented; however, much less is known about the interaction of Hb variants with the erythrocyte's membrane. Here, we identified factors other than O2 availability that control Hb abundance in the membrane-bound fraction and the possible variant-specific binding selectivity of Hb to the membrane. We show that depletion of extracellular Ca2+ by chelators, or its omission from the extracellular medium, leads to membrane-bound Hb release into the cytosol. The removal of extracellular Ca2+ further triggers the redistribution of HbA0 and HbA2 variants between the membrane and the cytosol in favor of membrane-bound HbA2. Both effects are reversible and are no longer observed upon reintroduction of Ca2+ into the extracellular medium. Fluctuations of cytosolic Ca2+ also impact the pre-membrane Hb pool, resulting in the massive transfer of Hb to the cellular cytosol. We hypothesize that AE-1 is the specific membrane target and discuss the physiological outcomes and possible clinical implications of the Ca2+ regulation of the intracellular Hb distribution.

Endothelin-1 induces lipolysis through activation of the GC/cGMP/Ca2+/ERK/CaMKIII pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent vasoconstrictive peptide produced and secreted mainly by endothelial cells. Recent studies indicate that ET-1 can regulate lipid metabolism, which may increase the risk of insulin resistance. Our previous studies revealed that ET-1 induced lipolysis in adipocytes, but the underlying mechanisms were unclear. 3T3-L1 adipocytes were used to investigate the effect of ET-1 on lipolysis and the underlying mechanisms. Glycerol levels in the incubation medium and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) phosphorylation were used as indices for lipolysis. ET-1 significantly increased HSL phosphorylation and lipolysis, which were completely inhibited by ERK inhibitor (PD98059) and guanylyl cyclase (GC) inhibitor (LY83583). LY83583 reduced ET-1-induced ERK phosphorylation. A Ca2+-free medium and PLC inhibitor caused significant decreases in ET-1-induced lipolysis as well as ERK and HSL phosphorylation, and IP3 receptor activator (D-IP3) increased lipolysis. ET-1 increased cGMP production, which was not affected by depletion of extracellular Ca2+. On the other hand, LY83583 diminished the ET-1-induced Ca2+ influx. Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV-1) antagonist and shRNA partially inhibited ET-1-induced lipolysis. ET-1-induced lipolysis was completely suppressed by CaMKIII inhibitor (NH-125). These results indicate that ET-1 stimulates extracellular Ca2+ entry and activates the intracellular PLC/IP3/Ca2+ pathway through a cGMP-dependent pathway. The increased cytosolic Ca2+ that results from ET-1 treatment stimulates ERK and HSL phosphorylation, which subsequently induces lipolysis. ET-1 induces HSL phosphorylation and lipolysis via the GC/cGMP/Ca2+/ERK/CaMKIII signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Quantitative Automated Assays in Living Cells to Screen for Inhibitors of Hemichannel Function.

In vertebrates, intercellular communication is largely mediated by connexins (Cx), a family of structurally related transmembrane proteins that assemble to form hemichannels (HCs) at the plasma membrane. HCs are upregulated in different brain disorders and represent innovative therapeutic targets. Identifying modulators of Cx-based HCs is of great interest to better understand their function and define new treatments. In this study, we developed automated versions of two different cell-based assays to identify new pharmacological modulators of Cx43-HCs. As HCs remain mostly closed under physiological conditions in cell culture, depletion of extracellular Ca2+ was used to increase the probability of opening of HCs. The first assay follows the incorporation of a fluorescent dye, Yo-Pro, by real-time imaging, while the second is based on the quenching of a fluorescent protein, YFPQL, by iodide after iodide uptake. These assays were then used to screen a collection of 2242 approved drugs and compounds under development. This study led to the identification of 11 candidate hits blocking Cx43-HC, active in the two assays, with 5 drugs active on HC but not on gap junction (GJ) activities. To our knowledge, this is the first screening on HC activity and our results suggest the potential of a new use of already approved drugs in central nervous system disorders with HC impairments.

Structural basis for allosteric transitions of a multidomain pentameric ligand-gated ion channel

Pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs) are allosteric receptors that mediate rapid electrochemical signal transduction in the animal nervous system through the opening of an ion pore upon binding of neurotransmitters. Orthologs have been found and characterized in prokaryotes and they display highly similar structure-function relationships to eukaryotic pLGICs; however, they often encode greater architectural diversity involving additional amino-terminal domains (NTDs). Here we report structural, functional, and normal-mode analysis of two conformational states of a multidomain pLGIC, called DeCLIC, from a Desulfofustis deltaproteobacterium, including a periplasmic NTD fused to the conventional ligand-binding domain (LBD). X-ray structure determination revealed an NTD consisting of two jelly-roll domains interacting across each subunit interface. Binding of Ca2+ at the LBD subunit interface was associated with a closed transmembrane pore, with resolved monovalent cations intracellular to the hydrophobic gate. Accordingly, DeCLIC-injected oocytes conducted currents only upon depletion of extracellular Ca2+; these were insensitive to quaternary ammonium block. Furthermore, DeCLIC crystallized in the absence of Ca2+ with a wide-open pore and remodeled periplasmic domains, including increased contacts between the NTD and classic LBD agonist-binding sites. Functional, structural, and dynamical properties of DeCLIC paralleled those of sTeLIC, a pLGIC from another symbiotic prokaryote. Based on these DeCLIC structures, we would reclassify the previous structure of bacterial ELIC (the first high-resolution structure of a pLGIC) as a "locally closed" conformation. Taken together, structures of DeCLIC in multiple conformations illustrate dramatic conformational state transitions and diverse regulatory mechanisms available to ion channels in pLGICs, particularly involving Ca2+ modulation and periplasmic NTDs.

BmK NSP, a new sodium channel activator from Buthus martensii Karsch, promotes neurite outgrowth in primary cultured spinal cord neurons

Scorpion venom is a rich source of bioactive compounds that affect neuronal excitability by modulating the activities of various channels/receptors. In the current study, guided by a Ca2+ mobilization assay, we purified a new neuroactive peptide designated as BmK NSP (Buthus martensii Karsch neurite-stimulating peptide, MW: 7064.30 Da). The primary structure of BmK NSP was determined by Edman degradation. BmK NSP concentration-dependently elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) with an EC50 value of 4.18 μM in primary cultured spinal cord neurons (SCNs). Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ abolished BmK NSP-triggered Ca2+ response. Moreover, we demonstrated that BmK NSP-induced Ca2+ response was partially suppressed by the inhibitors of L-type Ca2+ channels, Na+-Ca2+ exchangers and NMDA receptors and was abolished by voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) blocker, tetrodotoxin. Whole-cell patch clamp recording demonstrated that BmK NSP delayed VGSC inactivation (EC50 = 1.10 μM) in SCNs. BmK NSP enhanced neurite outgrowth in a non-monotonic manner that peaked at ~30 nM in SCNs. BmK NSP-promoted neurite outgrowth was suppressed by the inhibitors of L-type Ca2+ channels, NMDA receptors, and VGSCs. Considered together, these data demonstrate that BmK NSP is a new α-scorpion toxin that enhances neurite outgrowth through main routes of Ca2+ influx. Modulation of VGSC activity by α-scorpion toxin might represent a novel strategy to regulate the neurogenesis in SCNs.

NK2 receptor-mediated detrusor muscle contraction involves Gq/11-dependent activation of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels and the RhoA-Rho kinase pathway.

Tachykinins (TKs) are involved in both the physiological regulation of urinary bladder functions and development of overactive bladder syndrome. The aim of the present study was to investigate the signal transduction pathways of TKs in the detrusor muscle to provide potential pharmacological targets for the treatment of bladder dysfunctions related to enhanced TK production. Contraction force, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and RhoA activity were measured in the mouse urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM). TKs and the NK2 receptor (NK2R)-specific agonist [β-Ala8]-NKA(4-10) evoked contraction, which was inhibited by the NKR2 antagonist MEN10376. In Gαq/11-deficient mice, [β-Ala8]-NKA(4-10)-induced contraction and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration increase were abolished. Although Gq/11 proteins are linked principally to phospholipase Cβ and inositol trisphosphate-mediated Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, we found that phospholipase Cβ inhibition and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ depletion failed to have any effect on contraction induced by [β-Ala8]-NKA(4-10). In contrast, lack of extracellular Ca2+ or blockade of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs) suppressed contraction. Furthermore, [β-Ala8]-NKA(4-10) increased RhoA activity in the UBSM in a Gq/11-dependent manner and inhibition of Rho kinase with Y-27632 decreased contraction force, whereas the combination of Y-27632 with either VDCC blockade or depletion of extracellular Ca2+ resulted in complete inhibition of [β-Ala8]-NKA(4-10)-induced contractions. In summary, our results indicate that NK2Rs are linked exclusively to Gq/11 proteins in the UBSM and that the intracellular signaling involves the simultaneous activation of VDCC and the RhoA-Rho kinase pathway. These findings may help to identify potential therapeutic targets of bladder dysfunctions related to upregulation of TKs.

Mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein induces RGC-5 necroptosis following elevated hydrostatic pressure.

Receptor-interacting protein 3 (RIP3) is an essential component of the necroptosis signaling pathway. Phosphorylation of its downstream target, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), has been proposed to induce necroptosis by initiating Ca2+ influx. Our previous studies have shown that RGC-5 retinal ganglion cells undergo RIP3-mediated necroptosis following elevated hydrostatic pressure (EHP). However, the molecular mechanism underlying necroptosis induction downstream of RIP3 is still not well understood. Here, we investigated the effects of MLKL during EHP-induced necroptosis, and primarily explored the relationship between MLKL and Ca2+ influx. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the expression of MLKL was increased 12 h after EHP. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the phosphorylated and unphosphorylated forms of both RIP3 and MLKL were up-regulated 12 h after EHP, while inhibition of RIP3 by GSK'872 decreased the expression of phosphorylated MLKL at the same stage. Propidium iodide staining, lactate dehydrogenase release assays, flow cytometry, and electron microscopy revealed the increased necrosis of RGC-5 cells 12 h after EHP, which coincided with elevated cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations. Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ and siRNA-mediated silencing of MLKL significantly reduced EHP-induced necrosis. Both MLKL-specific siRNA and GSK'872 treatment diminished Ca2+ influx. Thus, our findings suggest that MLKL may be the key mediator of necroptosis downstream of RIP3 phosphorylation and may be involved in increasing intracellular Ca2+ concentrations in EHP-induced RGC-5 necroptosis.

IL-4-induced caveolin-1-containing lipid rafts aggregation contributes to MUC5AC synthesis in bronchial epithelial cells

BackgroundMucus overproduction is an important feature of asthma. Interleukin (IL)-4 is required for allergen-induced airway inflammation and mucus production. MUC5AC gene expression is regulated by transcript factors NF-κB. The intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) signal is required for activation of NF-κB. The transient receptor potential canonical 1 (TRPC1) channel has been shown to contribute for agonist-stimulated Ca2+ influx in some types of cells. However, the relationships among IL-4, TRPC1 and mucus overproduction in bronchial epithelial cells (BECs) in asthma are poorly understood.MethodsBECs were isolated from large bronchial airway of rats and used as cell model. To present changes of lipid raft, caveolin-1 and TRPC1, immunofluorescence staining and sucrose gradient centrifugation were performed. [Ca2+]i was measured after loading with Fura-2. NF-κB activities were measured by an ELISA-based assay. MUC5AC mRNA and protein levels were detected by real-time quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA analysis and immunofluorescence staining respectively.ResultsIL-4 induced Ca2+ influx in BECs, and this was blocked by a Ca2+ influx inhibitor (2-APB). 2-APB also prevented MUC5AC protein synthesis induced by IL-4. Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ resulted in partial decrease in expression of MUC5AC in IL-4 treated cells. NF-κB rather than STAT6 activation mediated IL-4-induced MUC5AC protein synthesis. Then the mechanism of Ca2+ influx was investigated. Immunofluorescence staining and sucrose gradient centrifugation revealed that caveolin-1-containing lipid rafts aggregation was involved in TRPC1 activation and Ca2+ influx in BECs. Lastly, the data revealed that blocking lipid rafts aggregation exactly prevented Ca2+ influx, NF-κB activation and MUC5AC synthesis induced by IL-4.ConclusionsOur results indicate that IL-4-induced caveolin-1-containing lipid rafts aggregation at least partly contributes to MUC5AC synthesis in BECs.

Airborne allergens induce protease activated receptor-2-mediated production of inflammatory cytokines in human gingival epithelium

ObjectiveIn reaching the airways inhaled allergens pass through and contact with the oral mucosa. Although they are often responsible for initiating asthmatic attacks, it is unknown whether airborne allergens can also trigger chronic inflammation of gingival epithelial cells leading to chronic periodontitis. In this study, we investigated the inflammatory responses of human gingival epithelial cells (HGECs) to airborne allergens, particularly German cockroach extract (GCE) with a focus on calcium signaling. DesignHGECs isolated from healthy donors were stimulated with GCE. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured with Fura-2-acetoxymethyl ester (Fura-2/AM) staining. Expression of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-8, IL-1β, IL-6, and NOD-like receptor family, pyridine domain-containing (NLRP) 3 was analyzed using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). ResultsGCE promoted increase in the [Ca2+]i in a dose-dependent manner. Depletion of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ by the ER Ca2+ ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin (Tg) but not the depletion of extracellular Ca2+ abolished the GCE-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. Treatment of phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor (U73122) or 1,4,5-trisinositolphosphate (IP3) receptor inhibitor (2-APB) also prevented GCE-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. Protease activated receptor (PAR)-2 activation mainly mediated the GCE-induced increase in [Ca2+]i and enhanced the expression of IL-8, NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-6 in HGECs. ConclusionsGCE activates PAR-2, which can induce PLC/IP3-dependent Ca2+ signaling pathway, ultimately triggering inflammation via the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and NLRP 3 in HGECs.

Bladder filling and voiding affect umbrella cell tight junction organization and function

Epithelial cells are continuously exposed to mechanical forces including shear stress and stretch, although the effect these forces have on tight junction (TJ) organization and function are poorly understood. Umbrella cells form the outermost layer of the stratified uroepithelium and undergo large cell shape and surface area changes during the bladder cycle. Here we investigated the effects of bladder filling and voiding on the umbrella cell TJ. We found that bladder filling promoted a significant increase in the length of the TJ ring, which was quickly reversed within 5 min of voiding. Interestingly, when isolated uroepithelial tissue was mounted in Ussing chambers and exposed to physiological stretch, we observed a 10-fold drop in both transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and the umbrella cell junctional resistance. The effects of stretch on TER were reversible and dependent on the applied force. Furthermore, the integrity of the umbrella cell TJ was maintained in the stretched uroepithelium, as suggested by the limited permeability of biotin, fluorescein, and ruthenium red. Finally, we found that depletion of extracellular Ca(2+) by EGTA completely disrupted the TER of unstretched, but not of stretched uroepithelium. Taken together, our studies indicate that the umbrella cell TJ undergoes major structural and functional reorganization during the bladder cycle. The impact of these changes on bladder function is discussed.

The Ca2 + channel inhibitor efonidipine decreases voltage-dependent K+ channel activity in rabbit coronary arterial smooth muscle cells

The effect of efonidipine, a commercially available antihypertensive drug and Ca2+ channel inhibitor, on voltage-dependent K+ (Kv) channels was studied in freshly isolated rabbit coronary arterial smooth muscle cells using the whole-cell patch clamp technique. The amplitude of Kv current was decreased by application of efonidipine in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 of 0.26μM and a Hill coefficient of 0.91, which suggests 1:1 binding stoichiometry. Efonidipine did not affect voltage-dependent activation of the Kv channel, but shifted the inactivation curve by −8.87mV. The inhibitory effect of efonidipine was not significantly changed by depletion of extracellular Ca2+ or intracellular ATP, which indicated no involvement of the Ca2+ channel or intracellular protein kinase-dependent cascades. We conclude that efonidipine dose-dependently inhibits Kv current in a phosphorylation- and Ca2+ channel-independent manner.

Modulation of urinary bladder paracellular permeability by stretch

In response to bladder filling and voiding, umbrella cells undergo changes in cell‐shape and vesicular trafficking. However, it is not known how filling/voiding impact paracellular transport in these cells. To investigate how changes in umbrella cell stretch affect paracellular permeability, bladder mucosa was mounted in Ussing chambers and studied under current clamp conditions. In this system the transepithelial resistance (TER) was dependent on whether the tissue was bowed outwards, simulating filling, or bowed inwards as observed during voiding when the epithelium is refolded. Outward bowing provoked by an increase in mucosal hydrostatic pressure of ~1 cm of water caused a decrease in junctional resistance from 21.1 ± 8.5 to 1.8 ± 0.4 kΩ.cm2. These effects were reversible and dependent on the applied force. The integrity of the tight junctions (TJ) was assessed by examining the distribution of ruthenium red (RR) added to the mucosal surface of the tissue and examined by electron microscopy. The TJ appeared intact and no RR was found along the basolateral surface of the cells during experimental filling. Finally, depletion of extracellular Ca2+ by EGTA completely disrupted the TER of control, but not of stretched uroepithelium, indicating a change in the junctional barrier. In summary, our results indicate that filling and voiding impacts the junctional complex of umbrella cells.

Cholecystokinin facilitates neuronal excitability in the entorhinal cortex via activation of TRPC-like channels

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is one of the most abundant neuropeptides in the brain, where it interacts with two G protein-coupled receptors (CCK-1 and CCK-2). Activation of both CCK receptors increases the activity of PLC, resulting in increases in intracellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) release and activation of PKC. Whereas high density of CCK receptors has been detected in the superficial layers of the entorhinal cortex (EC), the functions of CCK in this brain region have not been determined. Here, we studied the effects of CCK on neuronal excitability of layer III pyramidal neurons in the EC. Our results showed that CCK remarkably increased the firing frequency of action potentials (APs). The effects of CCK on neuronal excitability were mediated via activation of CCK-2 receptors and required the functions of G proteins and PLC. However, CCK-mediated facilitation of neuronal excitability was independent of inositol trisphosphate receptors and PKC. CCK facilitated neuronal excitability by activating a cationic channel to generate membrane depolarization. The effects of CCK were suppressed by the generic, nonselective cationic channel blockers, 2-aminoethyldiphenyl borate and flufenamic acid, but potentiated by gadolinium ion and lanthanum ion at 100 μM. Depletion of extracellular Ca(2+) also counteracted CCK-induced increases in AC firing frequency. Moreover, CCK-induced enhancement of neuronal excitability was inhibited significantly by intracellular application of the antibody to transient receptor potential channel 5 (TRPC5), suggesting the involvement of TRPC5 channels. Our results provide a cellular and molecular mechanism to help explain the functions of CCK in vivo.

Development and Functional Characterization of Insulin-releasing Human Pancreatic Beta Cell Lines Produced by Electrofusion

Three novel human insulin-releasing cell lines designated 1.1B4, 1.4E7, and 1.1E7 were generated by electrofusion of freshly isolated of human pancreatic beta cells and the immortal human PANC-1 epithelial cell line. Functional studies demonstrated glucose sensitivity and responsiveness to known modulators of insulin secretion. Western blot, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry showed expression of the major genes involved in proinsulin processing and the pancreatic beta cell stimulus-secretion pathway including PC1/3, PC2, GLUT-1, glucokinase, and K-ATP channel complex (Sur1 and Kir6.2) and the voltage-dependent L-type Ca(2+) channel. The cells stained positively for insulin, and 1.1B4 cells were used to demonstrate specific staining for insulin, C-peptide, and proinsulin together with insulin secretory granules by electron microscopy. Analysis of metabolic function indicated intact mechanisms for glucose uptake, oxidation/utilization, and phosphorylation by glucokinase. Glucose, alanine, and depolarizing concentrations of K(+) were all able to increase [Ca(2+)](i) in at least two of the cell lines tested. Insulin secretion was also modulated by other nutrients, hormones, and drugs acting as stimulators or inhibitors in normal beta cells. Subscapular implantation of the 1.1B4 cell line improved hyperglycemia and resulted in glucose lowering in streptozotocin-diabetic SCID mice. These novel human electrofusion-derived beta cell lines therefore exhibit stable characteristics reminiscent of normal pancreatic beta cells, thereby providing an unlimited source of human insulin-producing cells for basic biochemical studies and pharmacological drug testing plus proof of concept for cellular insulin replacement therapy.

Abstract 4553: Gβγ subunits inhibit Epac-induced melanoma cell migration

Abstract Background: Recently we reported that activation of Epac1, an Exchange protein activated by cAMP, increases melanoma cell migration via Ca 2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). G-protein subunits (Gβγ) are known to act as an independent signaling molecule upon activation of G-protein coupled receptor. However, the role of Gβγ in Ca2+ signaling and migration in melanoma has not been well studied. Here we report that there is crosstalk of Ca2+ signaling between Gβγ and Epac1 in melanoma, which results in inhibition of Epac-induced cell migration. Methods: Human metastatic melanoma cell lines, SK-Mel-2, SK-Mel-24, SK-Mel-187, c8161, WM1552C, and WM1361A, were used in this study. Intracellular Ca2+ level was measured with Fura-2AM and/or Fluo-4AM fluorescent dyes. Cell migration was examined with the Boyden chambers. Gβ1 and Gγ2 subunits were overexpressed with plasmid harboring each subunit. C-terminus of β adrenergic receptor kinase (βARK-CT), which inhibits Gβγ, was overexpressed with adenovirus. Results: A Gβγ -activating peptide, mSIRK, increased cytosolic Ca2+, in all melanoma cell lines. mSIRK induced Ca2+ entry was inhibited by depletion of extracellular Ca2+, suggesting that Gβγ activates Ca2+ influx from extracellular space. When cells were pretreated with mSIRK, but not with mSIRK (L9A), a non-functional mSIRK analogue, 8-(4-Methoxyphenylthio)-2′-O-methyladenosine- 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (8-pMeOPT), an Epac-specific agonist, failed to increase cytosolic Ca2+. In addition, co-overexpression of β1 and βγ2, which is a major combination of Gβγ, also inhibited 8-pMeOPT-induced Ca2+ elevation. Inhibition of Gβγ with βARK-CT, an inhibiting-peptide for Gβγ, or guanosine 5′-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GDPβS), a GDP analogue that inactivates Gβγ, recovered 8-pMeOPT-induced Ca2+ elevation. These data suggested that Gβγ inhibits Epac-induced Ca2+ release. We then examined the effect of Gβγ on Epac-induced cell migration. Epac-induced cell migration was decreased by mSIRK. Gp(CH)2pp (Guanosine 5′, α-β-methylene triphosphate), a constitutively active GTP analogue, also inhibited Epac-induced cell migration. Further, co-overexpression of Gβ1 and Gγ2 subunits inhibited Epac1-induced cell migration. By contrast, when βARK-CT was overexpressed, mSIRK's inhibitory effect on cell migration was negated. These data suggested that Gβγ has an inhibitory effect on Epac-induced melanoma cell migration. Finally, W-5, an inhibitor for calmodulin, negated mSIRK's inhibitory effects on Epac-induced Ca2+ elevation, and cell migration, suggesting involvement of calmodulin in the crosstalk of Ca2+ signaling between Gβγ and Epac. Conclusion: Gβγ evokes Ca2+ entry from extracellular space, which results in suppression of Epac-induced cytosolic Ca2+ elevation and cell migration in melanoma. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4553. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4553

Differential Effect of Resveratrol on Nitric Oxide Production in Endothelial F-2 Cells

We examined the rapid effect of resveratrol on nitric oxide (NO) production in endothelial F-2 cells. During an incubation period of 10 min, resveratrol at low concentrations (<20 microM) had no effect on NO production, whereas it significantly increased NO production at high concentrations (>50 microM). In contrast, pretreatment with resveratrol at low concentrations caused a significant decrease in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-stimulated NO production. Resveratrol failed to induce phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and VEGF receptor and did not affect autophosphorylation of the VEGF receptor. However, resveratrol markedly suppressed VEGF-induced eNOS phosphorylation. Resveratrol at high concentrations reduced the viability of F-2 cells as determined by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazoyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and dye exclusion methods. Resveratrol-stimulated NO production was completely abolished by the depletion of extracellular Ca2+. These results indicate that resveratrol stimulates NO production by a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism and reduces VEGF-stimulated NO production by impairing a Ca(2+)-independent mechanism in endothelial F-2 cells. However, the stimulatory effect of resveratrol may be partly attributed to its cytotoxicity.

Mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species mediate sympathoexcitation induced by angiotensin II in the rostral ventrolateral medulla

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the central nervous system are thought to contribute to sympathoexcitation in cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and heart failure. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase is a major source of ROS in the central nervous system, which acts as a key mediator (mediators) of angiotensin II (AngII). It is not clear, however, whether mitochondria-derived ROS in the central nervous system also participate in sympathoexcitation. In an in-vivo study, we investigated whether the AngII-elicited pressor response in the rostral ventrolateral medulla, which controls sympathetic nerve activity, is attenuated by adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of a mitochondria-derived antioxidant (Mn-SOD). In an in-vitro study, using differentiated PC-12 cells with characteristics similar to those of sympathetic neurons, we examined whether AngII increases mitochondrial ROS production. Overexpression of Mn-SOD attenuated the AngII-induced pressor response and also suppressed AngII-induced ROS production, as evaluated by microdialysis in the rostral ventrolateral medulla. Using reduced MitoTracker red, we showed that AngII increased mitochondrial ROS production in differentiated PC-12 cells in vitro. Overexpression of Mn-SOD and rotenone, a mitochondrial respiratory complex I inhibitor, suppressed AngII-induced ROS production. Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ with ethylene glycol bis-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetate (EGTA) and administration of p-trifluoromethoxycarbonylcyanide phenylhydrazone, which prevents further Ca2+ uptake into the mitochondria, blocked AngII-elicited mitochondrial ROS production. These results indicate that AngII increases the intracellular Ca2+ concentration and that the increase in mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake leads to mitochondrial ROS production.

The effect and mechanism of endothelin-1-induced intracellular free calcium in human lung adenocarcinoma cells SPC-A1.

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent mitogen involved in cell growth in human lung adenocarcinoma cells SPC-A1. The increase in intracellular free calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) plays a great role in this process. The aim of this study is to investigate the ET-1-induced [Ca(2+)]i responses in SPC-A1 cells and to explore its cellular mechanism. [Ca(2+)]i was measured by Fura-2/AM fluorescent assay. Endothelin receptors antagonists, calcium channel blockers and intracellular signal transduction blockers were used to study the underlying mechanism of ET-1-induced [Ca(2+)]i responses in SPC-A1 cells. At the concentration of 1*10(-15) mol/L-1*10(-8) mol/L, ET-1 caused a dose-dependent increase of [Ca(2+)]i in SPC-A1 cells (P <0.05) in vitro . The ET-1-induced (1*10(-10) mol/L) increase of [Ca(2+)]i was blocked by BQ123 at 1*10(-7) mol/L (P <0.05), a highly selective endothelin receptor A (ETAR) antagonist, not by BQ788 at 10(-7) mol/L (P >0.05), a highly selective endothelin receptor B (ETBR) antagonist. Depletion of extracellular Ca(2+) with free Ca(2+) solution and 0.1mmol/L ethyleneglycol bis (2-aminoethyl ether) tetraacetic acid (EGTA) or blockade of voltage dependent calcium channel with nifedipine at 1*10(-6) mol/L significantly reduced the ET-1-induced increase of [Ca(2+)]i. The ET-1-induced (1*10(-10) mol/L) increase of [Ca(2+)]i was also significantly attenuated by U73122 at 1*10(-5) mol/L (P <0.05), a phospholipase C inhibitor, and by Ryanodine at 50*10(-6) mol/L. However, Staurosporine (2*10(-9) mol/L), a protein kinas C inhibitor, exerted no significant effect on the ET-1-induced (1*10(-10) mol/L) increase of [Ca(2+)]i. ET-1 elevates [Ca(2+)]i via activation of ETA receptor. Both phospholipase C/Ca(2+) pathway and Ca(2+) influx through voltage dependent Ca(2+) channel activate by ETAR contribute to this process.

Neuronal transmission stimulates the phosphorylation of Kv1.4 channel at Ser229 through protein kinase A1

Phosphorylation of voltage-gated K+ channels (Kv) is involved in regulation of neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity and neuronal survival. Among Kv channels expressed in the CNS, Kv1.4 is located in the soma, dendrite and axon terminus of neurones in most regions of the brain. Here, we show that Ser229 found within the highly conserved T1 domain of Kv1.4 in cultured rat cortical neurones is phosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA), as demonstrated by in vitro protein kinase assay and Western blotting with a polyclonal antibody specific against phosphorylated Ser229. Glutamate, high concentrations of K+ or K+ channel blockers known to increase neurotransmission all stimulated the phosphorylation of Kv1.4 at Ser229 via N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), but not alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-proprionic acid (AMPA) receptor, whereas tetradotoxin (TTX), known to block neuronal transmission, and depletion of extracellular Ca2+ inhibited phosphorylation induced by tetraethylammonium (TEA), a non-selective K+ channel blocker. Mutation of Ser229 to Ala229 enhanced the current density. Taken together, elevation of the neuronal transmission stimulates the phosphorylation of Kv1.4 at Ser229 via the Ca2+ influx through NMDA receptor. Thus, it is possible that neuronal transmission regulates neuronal excitability partially through the phosphorylation of Kv1.4S229.