Integrin Chains Research Articles

α2β1 integrin, GPVI receptor, and common FcRγ chain on mouse platelets mediate distinct responses to collagen in models of thrombosis.

ObjectivePlatelets express the α2β1 integrin and the glycoprotein VI (GPVI)/FcRγ complex, both collagen receptors. Understanding platelet-collagen receptor function has been enhanced through use of genetically modified mouse models. Previous studies of GPVI/FcRγ-mediated collagen-induced platelet activation were perfomed with mice in which the FcRγ subunit was genetically deleted (FcRγ−/−) or the complex was depleted. The development of α2β1−/− and GPVI−/− mice permits side-by-side comparison to address contributions of these collagen receptors in vivo and in vitro.Approach and ResultsTo understand the different roles played by the α2β1 integrin, the GPVI receptor or FcRγ subunit in collagen-stimulated hemostasis and thrombosis, we compared α2β1−/−, FcRγ−/−, and GPVI−/− mice in models of endothelial injury and intravascular thrombosis in vivo and their platelets in collagen-stimulated activation in vitro. We demonstrate that both the α2β1 integrin and the GPVI receptor, but not the FcRγ subunit influence carotid artery occlusion in vivo. In contrast, the GPVI receptor and the FcRγ chain, but not the α2β1 integrin, play similar roles in intravascular thrombosis in response to soluble Type I collagen. FcRγ−/− platelets showed less attenuation of tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins including RhoGDI when compared to GPVI−/− and wild type platelets. The difference between FcRγ−/− and GPVI−/− platelet phosphotyrosine levels correlated with the in vivo thrombosis findings.ConclusionOur data demonstrate that genetic deletion of GPVI receptor, FcRγ chain, or the α2β1 integrin changes the thrombotic potentials of these platelets to collagen dependent on the stimulus mechanism. The data suggest that the FcRγ chain may provide a dominant negative effect through modulating signaling pathways in platelets involving several tyrosine phosphorylated proteins such as RhoGDI. In addition, these findings suggest a more complex signaling network downstream of the platelet collagen receptors than previously appreciated.

Cytoplasmic salt bridge formation in integrin αvß3 stabilizes its inactive state affecting integrin-mediated cell biological effects

Heterodimeric integrin receptors are mediators of cell adhesion, motility, invasion, proliferation, and survival. By this, they are crucially involved in (tumor) cell biological behavior. Integrins trigger signals bidirectionally across cell membranes: by outside-in, following binding of protein ligands of the extracellular matrix, and by inside-out, where proteins are recruited to ß-integrin cytoplasmic tails resulting in conformational changes leading to increased integrin binding affinity and integrin activation. Computational modeling and experimental/mutational approaches imply that associations of integrin transmembrane domains stabilize the low-affinity integrin state. Moreover, a cytoplasmic interchain salt bridge is discussed to contribute to a tight clasp of the α/ß-membrane-proximal regions; however, its existence and physiological relevance for integrin activation are still a controversial issue. In order to further elucidate the functional role of salt bridge formation, we designed mutants of the tumor biologically relevant integrin αvß3 by mutually exchanging the salt bridge forming amino acid residues on each chain (αvR995D and ß3D723R). Following transfection of human ovarian cancer cells with different combinations of wild type and mutated integrin chains, we showed that loss of salt bridge formation strengthened αvß3-mediated adhesion to vitronectin, provoked recruitment of cytoskeletal proteins, such as talin, and induced integrin signaling, ultimately resulting in enhanced cell migration, proliferation, and activation of integrin-related signaling molecules. These data support the notion of a functional relevance of integrin cytoplasmic salt bridge disruption during integrin activation.

Cell adhesion monitoring of human induced pluripotent stem cell based on intrinsic molecular charges

We have shown a simple way for real-time, quantitative, non-invasive, and non-label monitoring of human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell adhesion by use of a biologically coupled-gate field effect transistor (bio-FET), which is based on detection of molecular charges at cell membrane. The electrical behavior revealed quantitatively the electrical contacts of integrin-receptor at the cell membrane with RGDS peptide immobilized at the gate sensing surface, because that binding site was based on cationic α chain of integrin. The platform based on the bio-FET would provide substantial information to evaluate cell/material bio-interface and elucidate biding mechanism of adhesion molecules, which could not be interpreted by microscopic observation.

Ligand density elicits a phenotypic switch in human neutrophils.

Neutrophils are mediators of innate immunity and motility is critical to their function. We used microcontact printing to investigate the relationship between density of adhesive ligands and the dynamics of neutrophil motility. We show that neutrophils adopt a well-spread morphology without a uropod on moderate densities of adhesion ligand. As density is increased, the morphology switches to a classic amoeboid shape. In addition to the morphological differences, the dynamics of motility were quantitatively distinct. Well-spread cells without uropods glide slowly with high persistence, while amoeboid cells made frequent directional changes migrating quickly with low persistence. Using an antibody panel against various integrin chains, we show that adhesion and motility on fibronectin are mediated by MAC-1 (αMβ2). The phenotypic switch could be generalized to other surface ligands, such as bovine serum albumin, to which the promiscuous MAC-1 also binds. These results suggest that neutrophils are capable of displaying multiple modes of motility as dictated by their adhesive environment.

Contribution of the α8 Integrin Chain to the Expression of Extracellular Matrix Components

In the kidney, the α8 integrin chain (itga8) is expressed in mesenchymal cells and is upregulated in fibrotic disease. We hypothesized that itga8 mediates a profibrotic phenotype of renal cells by promoting extracellular matrix and cytokine expression. Genetic itga8 deficiency caused complex changes in matrix expression patterns in mesangial and smooth-muscle cells, with the only concordant effect in both cell types being a reduction of collagen III expression. Silencing of itga8 with siRNA led to a decline of matrix turnover with repression of matrix metalloproteinases and reduction of matrix production. In contrast, de novo expression of itga8 in tubular epithelial cells resulted in reduced collagen synthesis. Overexpression of itga8 in fibroblasts did not change the expression of matrix molecules or regulators of matrix turnover. Thus, the influence of itga8 on the expression of matrix components was not uniform and celltype dependent. Itga8 seems unlikely to exert overall profibrotic effects in renal cells.

Oxidative Stress Elicits Platelet/Leukocyte Inflammatory InteractionsviaHMGB1: A Candidate for Microvessel Injury in Sytemic Sclerosis

An abnormal generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is thought to contribute to systemic sclerosis (SSc), fostering autoimmunity, fibrosis, and vascular inflammation. The function of the prototypic damage-associated molecular pattern, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), depends on its redox status. Here we investigate whether oxidative stress regulates the cross-talk between leukocytes and platelets via HMGB1, thus contributing to vessel inflammation in SSc. The oxidation of HMGB1 amplified its ability to activate neutrophils, as detected assessing the redistribution of primary granule molecules and the transactivation of the β2 integrin chain CD18. Activated platelets are a source of bioactive HMGB1 and via P-selectin stimulated neutrophils to generate ROS. Oxidized extracellular HMGB1, soluble or associated to platelet membrane or to platelet-derived microparticles (PDμPs), further increased leukocyte activation. Leukocyte activation abated in the presence of inhibitors of HMGB1 or of catalase, which catalyzes the dismutation of hydrogen peroxide into water and molecular oxygen. The redistribution of the content of primary granules and the transactivation of β2 integrins characterized blood leukocytes of SSc patients and membrane HMGB1 was significantly higher in patients with pulmonary hypertension or with diffuse SSc. HMGB1(+) microparticles (μPs) purified from SSc patients, but not HMGB1(-) μPs purified from control subjects, activated in vitro healthy neutrophils, and HMGB1 inhibitors reversed the effects of μPs. ROS dramatically increase the ability of extracellular HMGB1 to activate blood leukocytes. This event might contribute to maintain the microvascular injury of patients with SSc.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid Targets β2 Integrin Expression To Suppress Monocyte Adhesion

Chronic recruitment of monocytes and their subsequent migration through the activated endothelium contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development. Integrin-mediated leukocyte adhesion is central to this process. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has the unique property of inducing regression of pre-established murine atherosclerosis via modulation of monocyte/macrophage function. Understanding the mechanisms through which CLA mediates its atheroprotective effect may help to identify novel pathways that limit or reverse atherosclerosis. In this study, we identified a novel mechanism through which CLA alters monocyte function. We show that CLA inhibits human peripheral blood monocyte cell adhesion to activated endothelial cells via loss of CD18 expression, the β2 chain of LFA-1 and Mac-1 integrins. In addition, using a static-adhesion assay, we provide evidence that CLA prevents monocytes from binding to ICAM-1 and subsequently reduces the capacity of these cells to polarize. CXCL12-CXCR4 interactions induce a conformational change in β2 integrins, facilitating leukocyte adhesion. In this study, we demonstrate that CLA inhibits CXCR4 expression, resulting in a failure of monocytes to directionally migrate toward CXCL12. Finally, using intravital microscopy, we show that, during CLA-induced regression of pre-established atherosclerosis in ApoE(-/-) mice, there is reduced leukocyte adhesion and decreased CD18 expression on Gr1(+)/CD115(+) proinflammatory monocytes. In summary, the data presented describe a novel functional role for CLA in the regulation of monocyte adhesion, polarization, and migration.

Laminin-111 improves muscle repair in a mouse model of merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy

Merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A (MDC1A) is a severe and fatal muscle-wasting disease with no cure. MDC1A patients and the dy(W-/-) mouse model exhibit severe muscle weakness, demyelinating neuropathy, failed muscle regeneration and premature death. We have recently shown that laminin-111, a form of laminin found in embryonic skeletal muscle, can substitute for the loss of laminin-211/221 and prevent muscle disease progression in the dy(W-/-) mouse model. What is unclear from these studies is whether laminin-111 can restore failed regeneration to laminin-α2-deficient muscle. To investigate the potential of laminin-111 protein therapy to improve muscle regeneration, laminin-111 or phosphate-buffered saline-treated laminin-α2-deficient muscle was damaged with cardiotoxin and muscle regeneration quantified. Our results show laminin-111 treatment promoted an increase in myofiber size and number, and an increased expression of α7β1 integrin, Pax7, myogenin and embryonic myosin heavy chain, indicating a restoration of the muscle regenerative program. Together, our results show laminin-111 restores muscle regeneration to laminin-α2-deficient muscle and further supports laminin-111 protein as a therapy for the treatment of MDC1A.

Natalizumab: A Review of Its Use in the Management of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Natalizumab (Tysabri®) is a humanized monoclonal antibody against the α4 chain of integrins and was the first targeted therapy to be approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Natalizumab acts as a selective adhesion molecule antagonist, which binds very late antigen (VLA)-4 and inhibits the translocation of activated VLA-4-expressing leukocytes across the blood-brain barrier into the CNS. In a pivotal phase III clinical trial, natalizumab 300 mg intravenously every 4 weeks for 2 years in adults with RRMS significantly reduced the annualized relapse rate and the risk of sustained progression of disability compared with placebo, as well as significantly increasing the proportion of relapse-free patients at 1 and 2 years. Natalizumab also significantly reduced the number of T2-hyperintense, gadolinium-enhancing and T1-hypointense lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, and significantly reduced the volume of T2-hyperintense and T1-hypointense lesions compared with placebo. Natalizumab recipients generally experienced improved health-related quality of life at 1-2 years. Natalizumab was generally well tolerated in pivotal trials. The only adverse events that were more frequent with natalizumab monotherapy than with placebo were fatigue and allergic reactions. The main safety and tolerability issue with natalizumab is the incidence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). As long as the risk of PML is managed effectively, natalizumab is a valuable therapeutic option for adults with highly active relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.

Calcium and Calmodulin-dependent Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase Type II (CaMKII)-mediated Intramolecular Opening of Integrin Cytoplasmic Domain-associated Protein-1 (ICAP-1α) Negatively Regulates β1 Integrins

Focal adhesion turnover during cell migration is an integrated cyclic process requiring tight regulation of integrin function. Interaction of integrin with its ligand depends on its activation state, which is regulated by the direct recruitment of proteins onto the β integrin chain cytoplasmic domain. We previously reported that ICAP-1α, a specific cytoplasmic partner of β1A integrins, limits both talin and kindlin interaction with β1 integrin, thereby restraining focal adhesion assembly. Here we provide evidence that the calcium and calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine protein kinase type II (CaMKII) is an important regulator of ICAP-1α for controlling focal adhesion dynamics. CaMKII directly phosphorylates ICAP-1α and disrupts an intramolecular interaction between the N- and the C-terminal domains of ICAP-1α, unmasking the PTB domain, thereby permitting ICAP-1α binding onto the β1 integrin tail. ICAP-1α direct interaction with the β1 integrin tail and the modulation of β1 integrin affinity state are required for down-regulating focal adhesion assembly. Our results point to a molecular mechanism for the phosphorylation-dependent control of ICAP-1α function by CaMKII, allowing the dynamic control of β1 integrin activation and cell adhesion.

Tspan8 and CD151 promote metastasis by distinct mechanisms

AimCD151 and Tspan8 are metastasis-promoting tetraspanins. To define whether Tspan8 and CD151 fulfil redundant or additive activities, Tspan8 and CD151 were stably knocked-down in highly metastatic rat pancreatic adenocarcinoma BSp73ASML cells (ASMLwt, ASML-Tspan8kd, ASML-CD151kd). ResultsASML-CD151kd and ASML-Tspan8kd cells metastasise via the lymphatics to the lung with delay and a 2–3-fold increased survival time compared to ASMLwt cells. Yet, CD151 and Tspan8 distinctly contribute to metastasis. Pronounced adhesion of ASML-Tspan8kd cells is due to CD151 associating with the alpha3 integrin chain, whereas strikingly increased ASML-CD151kd cell motility is efficiently inhibited by anti-beta4. These opposing Tspan8 and CD151 activities are due to distinct beta4 recruitment into Tspan8 complexes, accompanied by beta4 phosporylation, src recruitment, focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Ras activation. On the other hand, CD151 associates more readily with proteases, particularly matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)13 and MMP9, than Tspan8. The stronger CD151–MMP association is accompanied by pronounced collagen I and IV and laminin111 degradation, also seen in metastatic tissue, and strengthens invasiveness. ConclusionCD151 and Tspan8 coordinately promote metastasis, where Tspan8 overrides the adhesive features of CD151 by recruiting integrins out of adhesion into motility promoting complexes. CD151 more efficiently than Tspan8 recruiting and activating MMP9 and MMP13 creates a path for migrating tumour cells.

β2 Integrin-mediated Cell-Cell Contact Transfers Active Myeloperoxidase from Neutrophils to Endothelial Cells

Atherosclerosis and vasculitis both feature inflammation mediated by neutrophil-endothelial cell (EC) contact. Neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) can disrupt normal EC function, although the mechanism(s) by which MPO is transferred to ECs are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that close, β2 integrin-dependent neutrophil-EC contact mediates MPO transfer from neutrophils to ECs. We used sensitive MPO assays and flow cytometry to detect MPO in ECs and demonstrate that ECs acquired MPO when contacted by neutrophils directly but not when ECs and neutrophils were separated in Transwells. The transfer was dependent on neutrophil number, exposure time, and incubation temperature. Transfer occurred in several EC types, increased with endotoxin, was not accompanied by MPO release into the medium, and was not abrogated by inhibiting degranulation to secretagogues. Confocal microscopy showed MPO internalization by ECs with cytoplasmic and nuclear staining. Neutrophils and ECs formed intimate contact sites demonstrated by electron microscopy. Blocking CD11b or CD18 β2 integrin chains, or using neutrophils from CD11b gene-deleted mice, reduced MPO transfer. EC-acquired MPO was enzymatically active, as demonstrated by its ability to oxidize the fluorescent probe aminophenyl fluorescein in the presence of a hydrogen peroxide source. The data suggest an alternative to EC uptake of soluble MPO, namely the cell contact-dependent, β2 integrin-mediated transfer from neutrophils. The findings could be of therapeutic relevance in atherosclerosis and vasculitis.

Abstract 18596: Conjugated Linoleic Acid Targets β2 Integrin Expression to Suppress Monocyte Adhesion

Recruitment of monocytes to the damaged endothelium characterizes the early stages of atherosclerosis. Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are a group of naturally occurring fatty acids which inhibit the progression and induce regression of pre-established atherosclerosis. We have previously shown that CLA inhibits human peripheral blood monocyte (HPBMC) migration. Here we demonstrate that CLA suppresses adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells, via inhibition of β2 integrins. We further show that CLA suppresses the CXCR4 signalling pathway thus inhibiting crawling of monocytes towards CXCL12 chemokine. HPBMCs were treated with 10uM of CLA isomers (c9,t11-CLA and t10,c12-CLA), a CLA blend (80:20, c9t,11:t10,c12), control lipids and 5uM of PPARγ agonist (troglitazone) prior to adhesion to HAECs. c9,t11-CLA and CLA blend treatment inhibited monocyte adhesion to HAECs (63±3%, p<0.01 and 68±3%, p<0.01, respectively). Furthermore, c9,t11-CLA and CLA blend inhibited CD18, the β chain of β2 integrin, mRNA (48±14%, p<0.05 and 35±3%, p<0.001) and protein expression (44±13%, p<0.05, and 35±3%, p<0.001) via a PPARγ[[Unable to Display Character: ]]dependent mechanism. Flow cytometry analysis showed that c9,t11-CLA and CLA blend decreased external surface expression of both β chain (10±4%, p<0.05 and 20±5%, p<0.01), and α subunits (CD11a, 13±6%, p<0.05 and 30±5%, p<0.01; CD11b, 8±3%, p<0.05 and 27±7%, p<0.01), suggesting that CLA’s effect on CD18 transcription results in dysfunctional αβ complex formation, altering expression of LFA-1 and Mac-1 integrins. Furthermore, c9,t11-CLA and CLA blend almost completely abolished (by 82% and 89%, p<0.001) adhesion of monocytes to ICAM-1. Immunocytochemistry of adherent cells further confirmed the inhibition of cell spreading. Importantly, CLA suppresses monocyte response to chemoattraction, preventing crawling of cells through a reduction, of CXCR4 expression (c9,t11-CLA, 47±10%, p<0.05; CLA blend, 33±5%, p<0.01). Our findings suggest that CLA inhibits monocyte recruitment by suppressing their sensitivity to chemokines and by inhibiting their ability to firmly attach to ICAM-1.

The Elastin Microfibril Interfacer-1 (EMILIN-1) Is a Ligand for CD49d in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells

AbstractAbstract 1772CD49d (α4 integrin chain) is a strong negative prognosticator in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with a key role in CLL cell microenvironmental interactions. CD49d triggering by its main ligands Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and non-RGD sites (CS-1 fragments) of fibronectin (FN) activates signalling pathways delivering pro-survival signals, and promoting resistance to drug-induced apoptosis in CLL. Recently, the globular (g) C1q-like domain of Elastin MIcrofibriL INterfacer1 (EMILIN1), an adhesive extracellular matrix constituent, was described as a new ligand for CD49d, where it operates as a negative modulator of proliferation signals in substrate-adherent non-hematopoietic CD49d+ cells (Danussi et al, J Cell Biol, 2011). Here, we investigated the distribution of EMILIN1 in normal and CLL-involved tissues, and the effects of EMILIN1/CD49d interaction in CLL in terms of adhesion and survival.By taking advantage of a specific anti-human EMILIN1 monoclonal antibody (Spessotto et al, J Biol Chem, 2003), exploratory staining in reactive lymphoid tissues (tonsil) indicated a clear extracellular EMILIN1 specific reactivity in the outer zone of the mantle/marginal areas. When investigated in lymph node tissues from CLL cases (n=3) by both immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses, a clear EMILIN1 positive staining was detected intermingled with the neoplastic component. To verify whether EMILIN1 could promote CLL cell adhesion, we took advantage of the CLL-derived CD49d+ Mec-1 CLL-like cell model, previously demonstrated by us to adhere to both VCAM-1 and FN (Zucchetto et al, Leukemia, 2012). Results demonstrated similar adhesion levels of Mec-1 cells on VCAM-1, CS-1 fragment of FN and the gC1q-like EMILIN1 domain (mean number of adherent cells per field 267±24, 272±7 and 317±21, respectively).Consistently, adhesion experiments with primary CLL cells characterized by high and homogeneous CD49d expression confirmed similar levels of adhesion on both VCAM-1 and EMILIN1 (mean number of adherent cells per field 141±55 and 135±76, respectively). In all cases adhesion was specifically blocked by pre-treatment with the anti-CD49d HP1/2 blocking antibody. Immunofluorescence analysis with Mec-1 and primary CLL cells showed the recruitment of phospho-Vav-1 at the CD49d/EMILIN1 adhesion sites, with concomitant F-actin reorganization, confirming the activation of the integrin signalling pathway.The effects of EMILIN1/CD49d interactions in CLL were next investigated performing short-term adhesion experiments (2 and 5 minutes) on gC1q-like EMILIN1 domain and VCAM-1 using CLL cells from three CD49d+ cases, and verifying the phosphorylation of Akt and ERK1/2 kinases, key mediators of survival signals by western blotting. In all cases, an increased intensity of Akt and ERK1/2 phosphorylation was documented after two-minutes of adhesion on both EMILIN1 (mean fold increase =1.2±0.1, and =5.0±1.0 as compared to controls, respectively) and VCAM-1 (mean fold increase =1.6±0.2, and =4.0±1.9, respectively). The phosphorylation was even greater after five minutes (mean fold increase =2.4±0.5, and =10.0±4.0, for EMILIN1 and =2.4±0.6 and =5.0±0.7 for VCAM-1, respectively). The concomitant increase of phospho-Vav-1 confirmed the activation of the integrin signalling pathway.Finally, we verified whether CD49d/EMILIN1 interaction was able to protect CLL cells from spontaneous apoptosis, by culturing purified cells from 6 CLL cases on gC1q-like EMILIN1 domain, VCAM-1, or control substrate (1% BSA), and checking cell viability after 5 days. Both VCAM-1 and EMILIN1 were able to protect CLL cells from spontaneous apoptosis (p=0.03 and p=0.001, respectively), the viability obtained on EMILIN1 being also significantly higher than that observed on VCAM-1 (p=0.007).In conclusion, we showed here for the first time that EMILIN1 is present in normal and CLL-involved lymphoid tissues, and it is able to efficiently bind to CD49d, as expressed by CLL cells. At variance of what demonstrated in non-hematopoietic models, EMILIN1 was shown to be able to deliver anti-apoptotic/pro-survival signals to circulating CLL cells. EMILIN1/CD49d interactions may have a role in the maintenance of the neoplastic clone in CD49d-expressing CLL. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Role of β7 Integrin in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Trafficking.

AbstractAbstract 2992β7 integrin (β7), a well studied integrin chain, associates with either the α4 or αE chains to form a heterodimer on the cell surface. While it plays a key role in the migratory activities of hematopoietic progenitors and mature effector cells in the periphery, the overall importance of β7 in adult hematopoiesis remains controversial. We have recently identified a small subpopulation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow (BM) that express β7 integrin at steady state. These β7+ HSCs are capable of long-term reconstitution of both the lymphoid and myeloid compartments, ruling out the possibility that β7 expression on HSCs constitutes a marker for a homogeneous lineage-restricted progenitor population. We also found that these β7+ HSCs have an inherent advantage over β7− HSCs in competitive reconstitution assays. Loss of β7 results in the retention of HSCs in the BM and reduced HSC reconstitution potential. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that β7 deficient HSCs downregulated the chemokine receptor Cxcr4. Furthermore, blockade of the α4β7 integrin ligand, mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MAdCAM-1), exhibits a similar phenotype in HSC retention and competitive reconstitution. Interestingly, we discovered that β7 deficient mice have enhanced survival and faster hematopoietic recovery after 5-fluorouracil-induced myeloablative stress, indicating that the decreased engraftment of β7 deficient HSCs may not due to a functional defect, but rather is more likely caused by impaired homing capabilities. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that β7 integrin is essential for HSC homing during the transplantation process. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Circulating CLL Cells Expressing CD49d Display a Phospho-Proteomic Profile Consistent with a Constitutive Receptor Engagement by Blood-Borne Ligands

AbstractAbstract 930Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cell growth and survival occur in defined microenvironment niches controlled by several receptor/ligand interactions including those mediated by the α4β1 integrin. This integrin, in particular, is known to interact with both the extracellular matrix component fibronectin, via the non-RGD CS-1 fragments, and the bone marrow/stromal components, via the vascular-cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). The α4 integrin chain (a.k.a. CD49d) has been previously shown to be associated with poor prognosis in CLL by marking a subset of CLL patients characterized by a more aggressive clinical course both in term of disease progression and overall survival. Despite the great deal of studies investigating CLL cell microenvironmental interactions in tissue sites, little is known regarding the constitutive engagement of adhesion receptors in circulating CLL cells, and the role in this context of plasma/plasma components. To address this issue, the proteomic profiles of circulating leukemic cells from 80 CLL cases expressing or not CD49d were explored using a reverse phase protein microarray (RPMA) approach quantitatively analysing 77 proteins (61 phosphoproteins) known to be involved in translational control, cell growth, apoptosis, B cell receptor and cytoskeletal signaling. Comparison of the signaling activation portrait between 40 CD49d pos and 40 CD49d neg CLL cases highlighted the over-expression in CD49d pos CLL of proteins involved in the regulation of integrin-mediated cytoskeletal dynamics, such as phospho-p21-activated kinase (PAK1 Ser199-204/PAK2 Ser192-197; p=0.0005), phospho-LIM kinase (LIMK1 Thr508/LIMK2 Thr505; p=0.00001) and the adaptor protein CrkII Tyr221 (p=0.039). Moreover, CD49d pos CLL cells were characterized by a high correlation between proteins involved in integrin-mediated signal trasduction, including the focal-adhesion kinase (FAK Tyr576-Ser577), the tyrosine kinase Src Tyr527 and the adaptor protein CrkL Tyr207. Since PAK and LIMK represent key players in the modulation of the structure and the activity of actin cytoskeleton, we focused on these proteins for validation experiments. The constitutive pPAK and pLIMK overexpression in the CD49d pos CLL group was confirmed by western blot analysis comparing purified CLL cells from 3 CD49d pos versus 3 CD49d neg cases (mean fold increase >100 for both proteins). The results obtained suggest that integrin signalling is constitutively active in CD49d-expressing circulating CLL cells, pointing to a constitutive receptor engagement by CD49d ligands allegedly present in plasma. To test whether plasma constituents could modulate integrin-signaling proteins, CLL cells from 5 cases, expressing or not CD49d, were challenged with autologous plasma (1:3 dilution) for 30 seconds, 1 and 3 minutes. The presence of plasma induced a strong increase of PAK and LIMK phosphorylation intensities in CD49d pos CLL cells, starting at 30 seconds upon stimulation (mean fold increase >10 as compared to control for both proteins), and increasing after 1 and 3 minutes (mean fold increase >40 and >50 for both the proteins, respectively). Conversely, plasma stimulation did not induce pPAK and pLIMK expression modulation in CD49d neg CLL cells. Of note, pretreatment of CD49d-expressing CLL cells with the anti-CD49d HP1/2 blocking antibody, resulted in lower up-regulation of pPAK and pLIMK with an overall 60% inhibition for both the proteins (p=0.01), confirming the involvement of CD49d triggering in the observed activated signaling. Given the above results, we investigated plasma from 24 CLL patients, expressing CD49d at different levels, for the presence of the CD49d ligand fibronectin using an ELISA detection kit. All samples tested showed more than 1 mg/ml fibronectin concentration, without differences between CD49d-expressing and CD49d neg CLL cases. Altogether these results sustain the hypothesis of an active role of plasma/plasma components in the activation of CD49d-mediated integrin pathway, thus favoring the delivery of chemoresistance/pro-survival signals even in the context of circulating CLL cells. Our results may be of interest in the perspective of novel therapies (e.g. Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors) known to provoke a massive egress of neoplastic cells from tissue sites into the blood stream. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Tubulointerstitial de novo expression of the α8 integrin chain in a rodent model of renal fibrosis--a potential target for anti-fibrotic therapy?

In the normal kidney, the α8 integrin chain is expressed only on mesangial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. α8 integrin ligates several matrix molecules including fibronectin, osteopontin and fibrillin-1. Recently, we detected de novo expression of α8 integrin on epithelial cells in renal cysts. We hypothesized that the α8 integrin chain is induced in tubular epithelia undergoing dedifferentiation and contributes to the fibrotic response in the tubulointerstitium (TI) after unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). After induction of UUO in rats by ligation of the right ureter, increased expression of the α8 integrin chain and its ligands was observed. In the TI, α8 integrin was localized to cytokeratin-positive epithelial cells and to interstitial fibroblasts; and colocalized with its ligands. In mice underexpressing α8 integrin UUO led to collagen deposition and fibroblast activation comparable to wild types. Mice lacking α8 integrin showed even more TI damage, fibroblast activation and collagen deposition after UUO compared to wild type mice. We conclude that the expression of the α8 integrin chain and its ligands is strongly induced in the TI after UUO, but underexpression of α8 integrin does not attenuate TI fibrosis. Mice lacking the α8 integrin chain are even more susceptible to TI damage than wild type mice. Thus, interactions of α8 integrin with its ligands do not seem to contribute to the development or progression of TI fibrosis in UUO. Targeting α8 integrin might not be a useful approach for anti-fibrotic therapy.

1066 HYPERTENSION IN α8 INTEGRIN-DEFICIENT MICE WITH REDUCED RENAL MASS IS DEPENDENT ON GENDER AND GENETIC BACKGROUND

Background: The α8 integrin chain is a matrix receptor on mesenchymal cells and contributes to renal development. In α8 integrin-deficient mice bred on a mixed genetic background (C57BL/6x129SV), no hypertension was observed, although the total renal mass in these mice is reduced to about 50 %. Thus, we backcrossed these mice into 129SV and C57BL/6 strains to evaluate renal and cardiovascular alterations on a purebred background. Methods: Mice were backcrossed eight generations. Heterozygous breeding pairs were then mated. Homozygosity for α8 integrin deficiency was lethal in C57BL/6 but not in 129SV; expected numbers survived and α8 integrin deficient 129SV were evaluated at age 10 weeks for hypertension and renal damage. Results: Similar to the findings in the mixed genetic background, renal mass was reduced to 50 % in males and females. In males, left ventricular weight and blood pressure was increased (MAP: 168.8 ± 7.3 mm Hg in α8-/- versus 133.1 ± 9.3 in α8+/+, p < 0.05), as was albumin excretion (6.74 ± 1.29 mg/g creatinine in α8-/- versus 3.01 ± 0.76 in α8+/+, p < 0.05). In contrast, no differences between α8-/- and α8+/+ in MAP and albumin excretion were observed in females. In both males and females of the 129SV backcross glomerular size was considerably increased; microaneurysm formation and glomerulosclerosis was observed in α8-/- compared to α8+/+. Conclusion: The development of high blood pressure in mice with a reduced renal mass due to the deficiency of α8 integrin is dependent on gender and genetic background. Increased blood pressure was associated with albuminuria but not with the degree of glomerulosclerosis.

Toward tailored exosomes: The exosomal tetraspanin web contributes to target cell selection

Exosomes are discussed as potent therapeutics due to efficient transfer of proteins, mRNA and miRNA in selective targets. However, therapeutic exosome application requires knowledge on target structures to avoid undue delivery. Previous work suggesting exosomal tetraspanin–integrin complexes to be involved in target cell binding, we aimed to control this hypothesis and to define target cell ligands.Exosomes are rich in tetraspanins that associate besides other molecules with integrins. Co-immunoprecipitation of exosome lysates from rat tumor lines that differ only with respect to Tspan8 and beta4 revealed promiscuity of tetraspanin–integrin associations, but also few preferential interactions like that of Tspan8 with alpha4 and beta4 integrin chains. These minor differences in exosomal tetraspanin-complexes strongly influence target cell selection in vitro and in vivo, efficient exosome-uptake being seen in hematopoietic cells and solid organs. Exosomes expressing the Tspan8–alpha4 complex are most readily taken up by endothelial and pancreas cells, CD54 serving as a major ligand. Selectivity of uptake was confirmed with exosomes from an alpha4 cDNA transfected Tspan8+ lymph node stroma line. Distinct from exosomes from the parental line, the latter preferentially targeted endothelial cells and in vivo the pancreas. Importantly, pulldown experiments provided strong evidence that exosome-uptake occurs in internalization-prone membrane domains.This is the first report on the exosomal tetraspanin web contributing to target cell selection such that predictions can be made on potential targets, which will facilitate tailoring exosomes for drug delivery.

The presence of Tregs does not preclude immunity to reinfection with Leishmania braziliensis

Leishmania spp. cause a broad spectrum of diseases collectively known as leishmaniasis. Leishmania braziliensis is the main etiological agent of American cutaneous leishmaniasis and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. During experimental infection with L. braziliensis, BALB/c mice develop an adaptive immune response that is associated with lesion healing and, in parallel, parasite persistence within draining lymph nodes (dLNs). In the Leishmania major model of cutaneous leishmaniasis, regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an important role in immune regulation, preventing pathological immune responses but at the same time precluding sterile cure. In this study we investigated the role of Tregs during experimental infection with L. braziliensis. CD4+CD25+ T cells were detected throughout the duration of clinical disease both at the ear and in dLNs of infected mice. These cells expressed Treg markers such as glucocorticoid-induced TNF-receptor-related protein (GITR), the α chain of the αεβ7 integrin (CD103), and the forkhead/winged helix transcription factor, Foxp3, and were able to suppress the proliferation of CD4+CD25− cells. Importantly, a high frequency of Foxp3+ cells accumulated at the site of infection and in dLNs. We next investigated the outcome of a reinfection with L. braziliensis in terms of Treg distribution and disease reactivation. Interestingly, a secondary inoculation with L. braziliensis did not preclude an efficient recall response to L. braziliensis at a distal site, despite the presence of Tregs. Within dLNs, reinfection did not promote parasite dissemination or a differential recruitment of either CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ or CD4+IL-10+ T cells. On the contrary, parasites were mainly detected in the LN draining the primary infection site where a high frequency of CD4+IFN-γ+ T cells was also present. Collectively these data show that during experimental infection, Tregs are present in healed mice but this population does not compromise an effective immune response upon reinfection with L. braziliensis.