Luminal Side Research Articles

Interaction of ions with the luminal sides of wild-type and mutated skeletal muscle ryanodine receptors.

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are the largest known ion channels, and are of central importance for the release of Ca(2+) from the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) in a variety of cells. In cardiac and skeletal muscle cells, contraction is triggered by the release of Ca(2+) into the cytoplasm and thus depends crucially on correct RyR function. In this work, in silico mutants of the RyR pore were generated and MD simulations were conducted to examine the impact of the mutations on the Ca(2+) distribution. The Ca(2+) distribution pattern on the luminal side of the RyR was most affected by G4898R, D4899Q, E4900Q, R4913E, and D4917A mutations. MD simulations with our wild-type model and various ion species showed a preference for Ca(2+) over other cations at the luminal pore entrance. This Ca(2+)-accumulating characteristic of the luminal RyR side may be essential to the conductance properties of the channel.

Mature lipid droplets are accessible to ER luminal proteins.

Lipid droplets are found in most organisms where they serve to store energy in the form of neutral lipids. They are formed at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane where the neutral-lipid-synthesizing enzymes are located. Recent results indicate that lipid droplets remain functionally connected to the ER membrane in yeast and mammalian cells to allow the exchange of both lipids and integral membrane proteins between the two compartments. The precise nature of the interface between the ER membrane and lipid droplets, however, is still ill-defined. Here, we probe the topology of lipid droplet biogenesis by artificially targeting proteins that have high affinity for lipid droplets to inside the luminal compartment of the ER. Unexpectedly, these proteins still localize to lipid droplets in both yeast and mammalian cells, indicating that lipid droplets are accessible from within the ER lumen. These data are consistent with a model in which lipid droplets form a specialized domain in the ER membrane that is accessible from both the cytosolic and the ER luminal side.

The Endothelial Glycocalyx: New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches in Sepsis.

Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. The endothelial glycocalyx is one of the earliest sites involved during sepsis. This fragile layer is a complex network of cell-bound proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycan side chains, and sialoproteins lining the luminal side of endothelial cells with a thickness of about 1 to 3 μm. Sepsis-associated alterations of its structure affect endothelial permeability and result in the liberation of endogenous damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Once liberated in the circulatory system, DAMPs trigger the devastating consequences of the proinflammatory cascades in sepsis and septic shock. In this way, the injury to the glycocalyx with the consecutive release of DAMPs contributes to a number of specific clinical effects of sepsis, including acute kidney injury, respiratory failure, and septic cardiomyopathy. Moreover, the extent of glycocalyx degradation serves as a marker of endothelial dysfunction and sepsis severity. In this review, we highlight the crucial role of the glycocalyx in sepsis as a diagnostic tool and discuss the potential of members of the endothelial glycocalyx serving as hopeful therapeutic targets in sepsis-associated multiple organ failures.

Enhanced FcRn-dependent transepithelial delivery of IgG by Fc-engineering and polymerization

Monoclonal IgG antibodies (Abs) are used extensively in the clinic to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. In addition, therapeutic proteins are genetically fused to the constant Fc part of IgG. In both cases, the Fc secures a long serum half-life and favourable pharmacokinetics due to its pH-dependent interaction with the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). FcRn also mediates transport of intact IgG across polarized epithelial barriers, a pathway that is attractive for delivery of Fc-containing therapeutics. So far, no study has thoroughly compared side-by-side how IgG and different Fc-fusion formats are transported across human polarizing epithelial cells. Here, we used an in vitro cellular transport assay based on the human polarizing epithelial cell line (T84) in which both IgG1 and Fc-fusions were transported in an FcRn-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that the efficacy of transport was dependent on the format. We demonstrate that transepithelial delivery could be enhanced by Fc-engineering for improved FcRn binding as well as by Fc-polymerization. In both cases, transport was driven by pH-dependent binding kinetics and the pH at the luminal side. Hence, efficient transcellular delivery of IgG-based drugs across human epithelial cells requires optimal pH-dependent FcRn binding that can be manipulated by avidity and Fc-engineering, factors that should inspire the design of future therapeutics targeted for transmucosal delivery.

Monocyte and Fibroblast Directed Generation of a Marrow Vascular Niche

Hematopoietic cells dynamically interact with their surrounding microenvironment during their residence, maturation and differentiation. Individual marrow components have been isolated and studied in 2D in vitro cultures, yet their functional contributions to a complete niche are not fully understood. In vivo studies in mouse models are complex, and the inaccessibility of marrow architecture has precluded systematic analysis of each component. Here, we employ an in vitro 3D microfluidic vascular system to study the effect of microenvironmental cues on cell trafficking in an engineered hematopoietic niche. Our system allows for control of 3D geometric cues, hydrodynamic flow, multi-cellular compositions, and cellular matrix remodeling by combining soft lithography and injection modeling in type I collagen gel (Zheng et al. PNAS 2012). Endothelial cells perfused through the embedded microfluidic network form a confluent, patent endothelium within the collagen. Incorporating hematopoietic cells and stromal cells into the extravascular collagen space allows us to visualize how cells interact with vasculature during culture.First, we developed a marrow stromal microenvironment to understand how stromal cells modify the marrow microvascular environment, by incorporating two different human marrow-derived stromal fibroblast cell lines (HS27a and HS5) in the extravascular space surrounding the vessels (Fig 1A). HS27a and HS5 cells created distinct vascular microenvironments by secreting divergent cytokine profiles: stem cell niche-associated and inflammatory cytokines, respectively. Both stromal lines modified the vascular phenotype by reducing endothelial expression of vWF and junctional proteins. In particular, co-culture with HS5 increased expression of inflammatory markers on the endothelium.Next, we evaluated the function of this modified vasculature on hematopoietic stem cell trafficking through the vessels. When CD34+ cells alone were perfused through the microvessels, they adhered on the vessel wall and migrated into the matrix. The HS27a and HS5-induced microenvironment did not significantly change trafficking behavior (Fig 1B, C). When monocytes were perfused through the microvessels, they also adhered on the vessel wall and migrated into the matrix. Monocytes are a critical part of the marrow space, and are known to modify the endothelium and stromal microenvironment. When CD34+ cells were perfused through the vessels 24 hours after monocytes, crosstalk shifted trafficking patterns of both cell types and led to increased adhesion and migration within the HS5- and HS27a-modified vessels (Fig 1D).To explore the competent marrow niche in vitro, we further examined hematopoietic cell trafficking from the extravascular space into the circulation by embedding cells from fresh human bone marrow screens within the collagen matrix. We found this cell fraction contained a mixed population of hematopoietic and stromal cells, and could be cultured in the microvascular niche for at least two weeks. Scanning electron microscopy showed various types of marrow cells residing in both the abluminal and luminal side of the endothelium (Fig 1E-G). Throughout culture with continuous vascular perfusion, we collected the media flow-through and identified different hematopoietic cell populations released from the matrix into the circulation over the course of two weeks. Specifically, we identified CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells along with megakaryocyte, erythroid, lymphoid, and myeloid lineage cells by flow cytometry analysis.In summary, we developed an in vitro 3D microvascular marrow niche and gained insight into hematopoietic cell trafficking between the stroma and the circulation. By guiding the interplay of heterogeneous cell populations, we have demonstrated the capacity to define distinct microenvironment spaces. This platform shows promise for long term culture of a whole marrow population and for the ex vivo generation of hematopoietic cells. Further development of this 3D marrow niche will allow us to better understand the complexities mediating stem cell trafficking, residence, proliferation, mobilization, and differentiation in both health and disease. [Display omitted] DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of inteqerest to declare.

Csf1r Is a Downstream Target of C/EBPβ in Ly6C¯ Monocytes

Currently, monocytes are classified into at least two subsets. Classical monocytes, also known as inflammatory monocytes (a Ly6C+ subset in mice and a CD14+ CD16− subset in human), are involved in innate immune responses. On the other hand, patrolling monocytes (a Ly6C− subset in mice and a CD14− CD16+ subset in human) have been recently identified. Ly6C− monocytes are found attached on the luminal side of endothelium and scavenge microparticles. Developmentally, Ly6C+ and Ly6C− monocytes share common monocyte progenitors (cMoPs), or Ly6C− monocytes might be converted from Ly6C+ monocytes. Although involvement of Ly6C− monocytes in various kinds of diseases has been reported, molecular mechanisms which regulate the homeostasis of Ly6C− monocytes are largely unknown.CCAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein β (C/EBPβ) is a leucine zipper type transcription factor. We and others have previously shown that C/EBPβ is required for stress-induced granulopoiesis (Hirai et al. Nat Immunol, 2006, Satake et al. J Immunol, 2012, Hayashi et al. Leukemia 2013). However, its roles in steady state hematopoiesis remain relatively unknown. We have recently found that peripheral blood monocytes are significantly reduced in Cebpb−/− mice (Tamura et al. Biochem Biophys Res Commun, 2015). In addition, last year in this meeting, we have reported that Cebpb mRNA is highly upregulated during differentiation from myeloid progenitors or Ly6C+ monocytes to Ly6C− monocytes, and that Ly6C− monocytes are almost completely absent in Cebpb−/− mice due to enhanced cell death [Abstract #224]. Here, we further investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying C/EBPβ-dependent survival of Ly6C− monocytes.In this study, we focused on the regulation of Csf1r (also known as M-CSF receptor). Csf1r is an essential molecule for the development and survival of monocytes. To determine the developmental stages at which Csf1r plays critical roles, we measured the expressions of Csf1r mRNA in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells and monocyte subsets obtained from wild-type (WT) mice. Csf1r mRNA was expressed at at low levels in hematopoietic stem/progenitors including macrophage dendritic precursors (MDPs) and cMoPs. Csf1r mRNA started to be upregulated in Ly6C+ monocytes, followed by a drastic increase in Ly6C− monocytes. These expression patterns were quite similar to those of Cebpb, suggesting the close relationship between Csf1r and C/EBPβ. Interestingly, such drastic increase of Csf1r mRNA in Ly6C− monocytes was blunted in Cebpb−/− mice, and protein levels of Csf1r in Cebpb−/− Ly6C− monocytes were significantly lower than those in WT Ly6C− monocytes. In order to evaluate the effect of C/EBPβ overexpression on Csf1r expression, EML cells, a mouse hematopoietic stem cell line, were engineered to express C/EBPβ-estrogen receptor (ER) fusion protein or ER alone. Nuclear translocation of C/EBPβ-ER in the presence of tamoxifen resulted in significantly increased levels of Csf1r mRNA and protein when compared to nuclear translocation of ER alone. Previous reports have demonstrated that a combination of a promoter sequence and an enhancer region located in the first intron of Csf1r gene (Fms intronic regulatory element: FIRE) is enough to recapitulate the endogenous Csf1r expression and that these elements contained consensus binding sites for C/EBP transcription factors. Then, we hypothesized that C/EBPβ binds to these sites, activates transcription of Csf1r gene and promotes survival of Ly6C- monocytes. To evaluate this hypothesis, we utilized an expression vector, in which green fluorescent protein (GFP) is driven by a combination of the Csf1r promoter and FIRE sequences (Csf1r-EGFP-FIRE) (a kind gift from Drs Clare P and David A Hume, University of Edinburgh). When a C/EBPβexpression vector was co-transfected with the vector containing Csf1r-EGFP-FIRE into HEK293 cells, the frequencies of GFP positive cells were significantly higher when compared to a control vector (C/EBPβ vs control; 4.6±0.6 vs 1.6±1.0, p=0.01), suggesting that C/EBPβ regulates Csf1r expression through these elements. We are currently evaluating the significance of C/EBP consensus binding sites in the promoter and the enhancer. ChIP PCR is also in progress to further verify our hypothesis.Collectively, these results suggest that Csf1r is a critical downstream target of C/EBPβ in Ly6C- monocytes. DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Leukocyte adhesion and polarization: Role of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins.

ABSTRACTLeukocyte traffic out of the blood stream is crucial for an adequate immune response. Leukocyte extravasation is critically dependent on the binding of leukocyte integrins to their endothelial counterreceptors. This interaction enables the firm adhesion of leukocytes to the luminal side of the vascular wall and allows for leukocyte polarization, crawling and diapedesis. Leukocyte adhesion, polarization and migration requires the orchestrated regulation of integrin adhesion/de-adhesion dynamics and actin cytoskeleton rearrangements. Adhesion strength depends on conformational changes of integrin molecules (affinity) as well as the number of integrin molecules engaged at adhesion sites (valency). These two processes can be independently regulated and several molecules modulate either one or both processes. Cholesterol-rich membrane domains (lipid rafts) participate in integrin regulation and play an important role in leukocyte adhesion, polarization and motility. In particular, lipid raft-resident glycosyl-phosphatidyl-inositol-anchored proteins (GPI-APs) have been reported to regulate leukocyte adhesion, polarization and motility in both integrin-dependent and independent manners. Here, we present our recent discovery concerning the novel role of the GPI-AP prion protein (PrP) in the regulation of β1 integrin-mediated monocyte adhesion, migration and shape polarization in the context of existing literature on GPI-AP-dependent regulation of integrins.

Answer to December 2015 Photo Quiz

Answer: Intestinal spirochetosis. The colon biopsy specimen showed intestinal spirochetosis. The endoscopic appearance in intestinal spirochetosis tends to be nonspecific, ranging from normal to polypoid areas or erythema (1). A basophilic fringe of spirochetes can be seen attached to the luminal side of the colonic epithelium. These organisms are known to attach to the mature microvilli of mature colonic and rectal epithelia. The spirochetes appear as an accentuated brush border-like layer coating the microvilli of the superficial epithelium, often referred to as a false brush border. Typically, the diagnosis is made by a pathologist examining the biopsy specimen. A Warthin-Starry silver stain for spirochetes can highlight the organism (see Fig. 1C and D in the photo quiz). Intestinal spirochetosis in humans is caused predominantly by Brachyspira aalborgi and Brachyspira pilosicoli. This condition is thought to be most prevalent in developing countries (2), among homosexual males (3), and among individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (3). These organisms are slow-growing fastidious anaerobes and thus are infrequently recovered from stool specimens. While the pathological significance of intestinal spirochetosis is unclear, this condition has been reported to be associated with chronic diarrheal symptoms, especially in HIV-positive individuals. Evidence suggests that invasion of the organism beyond the epithelium may be associated with symptoms that respond to metronidazole (3). Using CLSI guidelines for susceptibility testing of anaerobes, Brooke et al. tested 123 human isolates of Brachyspira pilosicoli, all of which were susceptible to metronidazole, with an MIC90 of 0.25 μg/ml (4). The introduction of PCR-based assays along with immunohistological methods over the past decade may provide the tools to allow us to study the epidemiology and clinical importance of this organism (5). (See page 3711 in this issue [doi:10.1128/JCM.00005-14] for photo quiz case presentation.)

Multiple mouse models of primary lymphedema exhibit distinct defects in lymphovenous valve development

Lymph is returned to the blood circulation exclusively via four lymphovenous valves (LVVs). Despite their vital importance, the architecture and development of LVVs is poorly understood. We analyzed the formation of LVVs at the molecular and ultrastructural levels during mouse embryogenesis and identified three critical steps. First, LVV-forming endothelial cells (LVV-ECs) differentiate from PROX1+ progenitors and delaminate from the luminal side of the veins. Second, LVV-ECs aggregate, align perpendicular to the direction of lymph flow and establish lympho-venous connections. Finally, LVVs mature with the recruitment of mural cells. LVV morphogenesis is disrupted in four different mouse models of primary lymphedema and the severity of LVV defects correlate with that of lymphedema. In summary, we have provided the first and the most comprehensive analysis of LVV development. Furthermore, our work suggests that aberrant LVVs contribute to lymphedema.

Extracorporeal Hypothermic Perfusion Device for Intestinal Graft Preservation to Decrease Ischemic Injury During Transportation

IntroductionThe small intestine is one of the most ischemia-sensitive organs used in transplantation. To better preserve the intestinal graft viability and decrease ischemia-reperfusion injury, a device for extracorporeal perfusion was developed. We present the results for the first series of perfused human intestine with an intestinal perfusion unit (IPU). MethodsFive human intestines were procured for the protocol. (1) An experimental segment was perfused by the IPU delivering cold preservation solution to the vascular and luminal side continually at 4 ºC for 8 h. (2) Control (jejunum and ileum) segments were preserved in static cold preservation. Tissue samples were obtained for histopathologic grading according to the Park/Chiu scoring system (0 = normal, 8 = transmural infarction). ResultsJejunal experimental segments scored 2.2 with the Park/Chiu system compared to the control segments, which averaged 3.2. Overall scoring for ileum experimental and control segments was equal with 1.6. ConclusionThis data presents proof of concept that extracorporeal intestinal perfusion is feasible. The evidence shows that the IPU can preserve the viability of human intestine, and histopathologic evaluation of perfused intestine is favorable. Our early results can eventually lead to expanding the possibilities of intestinal preservation.

Effects of lipopolysaccharide on the expression of plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT) at the blood-brain barrier and its implications to the transport of neurotoxins.

Plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT) is a polyspecific organic cation transporter that is highly expressed in the central nervous system. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lipopolysaccharide on PMAT expression at the blood-brain barrier and the interaction between PMAT and neurotoxins. As a result, PMAT mRNA was identified in brain microvessels (BMVs), brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), astrocytes, and pericytes isolated from C57BL/6 mice and/or Wistar rats using RT-qPCR. The immunofluorescence staining confirmed the expression of PMAT protein in BMVs and striatum of C57BL/6 mice. Western blotting demonstrated its localization at the luminal and abluminal sides of BMECs. In C57BL/6 mice, PMAT protein was significantly increased in BMVs 24 h after an intraperitoneal injection of 3 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide. Lipopolysaccharide treatment also significantly increased PMAT expression in cerebral cortex and the striatum in a time-dependent manner, as well as the brain-to-plasma ratio of 1-benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1-benzyl-TIQ). In isolated cells, lipopolysaccharide treatment significantly increased PMAT mRNA in brain astrocytes and the BMECs co-cultured with astrocytes. In addition to 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium, the kinetic study indicated that both 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and 1-benzyl-TIQ are substrates of human PMAT. These findings suggest that inflammation can change PMAT expression at the blood-brain barrier, which may affect PMAT-mediated transport of neurotoxins. We demonstrated the expression of plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT; mRNA or protein) at several subunits of the blood-brain barrier. Lipopolysaccharide treatment can significantly increase the expression of PMAT in vivo (in brain microvessels, cerebral cortex, and the striatum of C57BL/6 mice) and in vitro (in brain astrocytes and brain microvascular endothelial cells co-cultured with astrocytes). Lipopolysaccharide treatment also increased the brain-to-plasma ratio of 1-benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1-benzyl-TIQ) in mice, where 1-benzyl-TIQ competitively inhibited 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) uptake in MDCK-human PMAT (hPMAT) cells and its uptake in MDCK-hPMAT is concentration dependent.

Development of Chitosan Scaffolds with Enhanced Mechanical Properties for Intestinal Tissue Engineering Applications

Massive resections of segments of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract lead to intestinal discontinuity. Functional tubular replacements are needed. Different scaffolds were designed for intestinal tissue engineering application. However, none of the studies have evaluated the mechanical properties of the scaffolds. We have previously shown the biocompatibility of chitosan as a natural material in intestinal tissue engineering. Our scaffolds demonstrated weak mechanical properties. In this study, we enhanced the mechanical strength of the scaffolds with the use of chitosan fibers. Chitosan fibers were circumferentially-aligned around the tubular chitosan scaffolds either from the luminal side or from the outer side or both. Tensile strength, tensile strain, and Young’s modulus were significantly increased in the scaffolds with fibers when compared with scaffolds without fibers. Burst pressure was also increased. The biocompatibility of the scaffolds was maintained as demonstrated by the adhesion of smooth muscle cells around the different kinds of scaffolds. The chitosan scaffolds with fibers provided a better candidate for intestinal tissue engineering. The novelty of this study was in the design of the fibers in a specific alignment and their incorporation within the scaffolds.

Role of nucleotides in stabilization of the phospholamban/cardiac Ca²⁺ pump inhibitory complex examined with use of metal fluorides.

Phospholamban (PLB) inhibits the activity of the cardiac calcium pump SERCA2a. We previously showed that PLB with engineered Cys residues only cross-linked with the Ca(2+) -free E2 intermediate of SERCA2a. Formation of E2•PLB prevents Ca(2+) binding at the high-affinity Ca(2+) binding sites, blocking the enzyme kinetic cycle. Here we further studied the synergistic action of PLB and ATP on E2 in terms of prevention of formation of the phosphorylated E2P-like states stabilized by metal fluorides. SERCA2a was co-expressed in insect cell microsomes with PLB mutants of normal or super-inhibitory strength, with cross-linkable mutations at either the cytosolic side (N30C) or the luminal side (V49C) of PLB. For normal-strength PLB mutants, in the absence of nucleotide, metal fluorides totally inhibited both SERCA2a enzyme activity and cross-linking of PLB to SERCA2a at both sites, suggesting that PLB dissociates from SERCA2a in the E2P-like states. However, under the same conditions, super-inhibitory PLB mutants prevented total enzyme inhibition by metal fluorides. Further, the cross-linking of super-inhibitory PLB to SERCA2a was only partially inhibited by metal fluorides, but was drastically restored upon sequential addition of ATP. These results revealed the equilibrium between E2•PLB, E2•ATP, or E2•ATP•PLB states and E2P-like states, suggesting that the synergistic binding of ATP and PLB to SERCA is very strong, sufficient to prevent formation of E2 phosphoenzymes, even when stabilized by metal fluorides.

Mucosal signaling in the bladder.

The bladder mucosa is comprised of the multilayered urothelium, lamina propria (LP), microvasculature, and smooth muscle fibers (muscularis mucosae). The muscularis mucosae is not always present in the mucosa, and its presence is related to the thickness of the LP. Since there are no mucus secreting cells, "mucosa" is an imprecise term. Nerve fibers are present in the LP of the mucosa. Efferent nerves mediate mucosal contractions which can be elicited by electrical field stimulation (EFS) and various agonists. The source of mucosal contractility is unknown, but may arise from the muscularis mucosae or myofibroblasts. EFS also increases frequency of mucosal venule contractions. Thus, efferent neural activity has multiple effects on the mucosa. Afferent activity has been measured when the mucosa is stimulated by mechanical and stretch stimuli from the luminal side. Nerve fibers have been shown to penetrate into the urothelium, allowing urothelial cells to interact with nerves. Myofibroblasts are specialized cells within the LP that generate spontaneous electrical activity which then can modulate both afferent and efferent neural activities. Thus mucosal signaling is defined as interactions between bladder autonomic nerves with non-neuronal cells within the mucosa. Mucosal signaling is likely to be involved in clinical functional hypersensory bladder disorders (e.g. overactive bladder, urgency, urgency incontinence, bladder pain syndrome) in which mechanisms are poorly understood despite high prevalence of these conditions. Targeting aberrant mucosal signaling could represent a new approach in treating these disorders.

Impact of Cationic Amino Acid Transporter 1 on Blood-Retinal Barrier Transport of L-Ornithine.

To elucidate L-ornithine transport at the blood-retinal barrier (BRB). Integration plot and retinal uptake index (RUI) were used to investigate the in vivo [3H]L-ornithine transport across the BRB. In vitro transport studies of [3H]L-ornithine were performed with TR-iBRB2 cells and RPE-J cells, the model cells of the inner and outer BRB, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was performed on cationic amino acid transporter 1 (CAT1/SLC7A1). The apparent influx permeability clearance of [3H]L-ornithine was found to be 18. 7 μL/(min·g retina), and the RUI of [3H]L-ornithine was reduced by L-ornithine and L-arginine, suggesting the blood-to-retina transport of L-ornithine at the BRB. [3H]L-Ornithine uptake by TR-iBRB2 cells showed a time-, temperature- and concentration-dependence with a Michaelis-Menten constant (K(m)) of 33.2 μM and a nonsaturable uptake rate (Kd) of 2.18 μL/(min·mg protein). The uptake was Na+-independent, and was inhibited by L-ornithine, L-arginine, and L-lysine, suggesting the involvement of CAT1 in L-ornithine transport at the inner BRB. Immunohistochemistry revealed the luminal and abluminal localization of CAT1 at the inner BRB, and at the basal localization at the outer BRB. Retinal pigment epithelium-J cells showed that the basal-to-cell (B-to-C) uptake of [3H]L-ornithine was greater than that of the apical-to-cell (A-to-C) uptake, and the B-to-C transport was inhibited by unlabeled L-ornithine, suggesting the involvement of CAT1 in the blood-to-cell transport of L-ornithine across the basal membrane at the outer BRB. These suggest the involvement of CAT1 in L-ornithine transport at the luminal and abluminal sides of the inner BRB and the basal side of the outer BRB.

A Sensitive Medium-Throughput Method to Predict Intestinal Absorption in Humans Using Rat Intestinal Tissue Segments

A range of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches are currently used for drug development. Highly predictive human intestinal absorption models remain lagging behind the times because of numerous variables concerning permeability through gastrointestinal tract in humans. However, there is a clear need for a drug permeability model early in the drug development process that can balance the requirements for high throughput and effective predictive potential. The present study developed a medium throughput screening Snapwell (MTS-Snapwell) ex vivo model to provide an alternative method to classify drug permeability. Rat small intestine tissue segments were mounted in commercial Snapwell™ inserts. Unidirectional drug transport (A-B) was measured by collecting samples at different time points. Viability of intestinal tissue segments was measured by examining transepithelial electric resistance (TEER) and phenol red and caffeine transport. As a result, the apparent permeability (Papp; ×10(-6) cm/s) was determined for atenolol (10.7 ± 1.2), caffeine (17.6 ± 3.1), cimetidine (6.9 ± 0.1), metoprolol (12.6 ± 0.7), theophylline (15.3 ± 1.6) and, ranitidine (3.8 ± 0.4). All drugs were classified in high/low permeability according to Biopharmaceutics Classification System showing high correlation with human data (r = 0.89). These findings showed a high correlation with human data (r = 0.89), suggesting that this model has potential predictive capacity for paracellular and transcellular passively absorbed molecules.

Human Saphenous Vein Response to Trans-wall Oxygen Gradients in a Novel Ex Vivo Conditioning Platform.

Autologous saphenous veins are commonly used for the coronary artery bypass grafting even if they are liable to progressive patency reduction, known as 'vein graft disease'. Although several cellular and molecular causes for vein graft disease have been identified using in vivo models, the metabolic cues induced by sudden interruption of vasa vasorum blood supply have remained unexplored. In the present manuscript, we describe the design of an ex vivo culture system allowing the generation of an oxygen gradient between the luminal and the adventitial sides of the vein. This system featured a separation between the inner and the outer vessel culture circuits, and integrated a purpose-developed de-oxygenator module enabling the trans-wall oxygen distribution (high oxygen level at luminal side and low oxygen level at the adventitial side) existing in arterialized veins. Compared with standard cultures the bypass-specific conditions determined a significant increase in the proliferation of cells around adventitial vasa vasorum and an elevation in the length density of small and large caliber vasa vasorum. These results suggest, for the first time, a cause-effect relationship between the vein adventitial hypoxia and a neo-vascularization process, a factor known to predispose the arterialized vein conduits to restenosis.

Tissue-engineered tubular substitutions for urinary diversion in a rabbit model.

Clinically, autologous gastrointestinal segments are traditionally used for urinary diversion. However, this procedure often causes many serious complications. Tissue engineering may provide an alternative treatment method in urinary diversion. This research aims to produce tissue-engineered tubular substitutions by using homologous adipose-derived stem cells, smooth muscle cells, and bladder acellular matrix in developing urinary diversion in a rabbit model. Adipose-derived stem cells and smooth muscle cells of rabbit were obtained and cultured invitro. These cultured adipose-derived stem cells and smooth muscle cells were seeded onto the two sides of the bladder acellular matrix and then incubated for seven days. The cell-seeded matrix was used to build tissue-engineered tubular substitutions, which were then implanted and wrapped into the omentum invivo for two weeks to promote angiogenesis. In the experimental group, the bladder of 20 rabbits was totally resected, and the above tissue-engineered tubular substitutions were used for urinary diversion. In the control group, bladder acellular matrix tubular substitutions with unseeded cells were implanted into the omentum and were used as urinary diversion on another five rabbits with the same process. The implants were harvested, and histological examination was conducted at 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks after operation. Intravenous urography assessment was performed at 16 weeks postoperatively. All the rabbits were alive in the experimental group until they were sacrificed. Histological analysis of the construct displayed the presence of multilayer urothelial cells on the luminal side and organized smooth muscle tissue on the other side, and different diameters of neovascularization were clearly identified in the substitutions obtained. No leakage, stricture, or obstructions were noted with intravenous urography assessment. All the animals in the control group died within two weeks, and urine leakage, scar formation, and inflammation were detected through autopsy. This study demonstrates the feasibility of tissue-engineered tubular substitutions constructed using homologous adipose-derived stem cells, smooth muscle cells, and bladder acellular matrix for urinary diversion in a rabbit model.

Asymmetrical diacylglycerol dynamics on the cytosolic and lumenal sides of a single endomembrane in living cells.

The elucidation of lipid dynamics on the cytosolic and lumenal sides of a single endomembrane has been challenging in living cells because of the lack of appropriate methods. Diacylglycerol (DAG) is a lipid second messenger that is produced by enzymes that reside on both the cytosolic and lumenal sides of the endomembrane. In the present study, we attempted to observe both the cytosolic and lumenal DAG dynamics at endomembranes including the Golgi apparatus and the endoplasmic reticulum in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. We developed a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)–based probe to detect DAG at the luminal side (lumenal DAG) of endomembranes. In combination with the FRET-based cytosolic DAG probe that has already been established, it was found that lumenal DAG is generated in a calcium-dependent manner by thapsigargin, which increases cytosolic calcium concentrations. In contrast, DAG production at the cytosolic side of endomembranes did not occur under the same experimental conditions. The thapsigargin-induced DAG generation was abolished by treatment with an inhibitor of sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) and phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC), which produce lumenal DAG. Thus, we have established a successful method for monitoring both cytosolic and lumenal DAG dynamics at the endomembrane in living cells.

Abstract 2250: COX2-MMP1 pathway promotes brain metastasis by tampering with blood-brain barrier and supporting tumor initiating cells in the brain microenvironment

Abstract Brain is one of the major sites of metastasis in breast cancer; however, the pathological mechanism of brain metastasis is yet poorly understood. Metastatic tumor cells must first breach the blood-brain barrier (BBB) which acts as a selective interface between the peripheral circulation and the central nervous system. We analyzed clinical significance of 23 metalloproteinases on brain metastasis-free survival of breast cancer patients followed by verification in brain metastatic cell lines and found that only MMP1 among all metalloproteinses was significantly correlated with brain metastasis. We then performed the transmigration assay to study the role of MMP1 in transmigrating ability of breast cancer cells across the blood-brain barrier. This assay simulates the BBB structure as we seeded the brain endothelial cells on the luminal side of a polyester membrane with 3.0μm pore size inside a 24-well cell culture insert and we seeded the astrocytes on the abluminal side. We have shown that MMP1 was highly expressed in brain metastatic cells and it was positively correlated to the transmigrating ability of breast cancer cells. By Western blot and immunocytochemistry analyses, we found that MMP1 was capable of degrading Occludin and Claudin but not Zo-1 that are three key components of blood brain barrier. These results indicated that Occludin and Claudin are the targets of MMP1, and degradation of these proteins contributes to the increased permeability of BBB. Importantly, knockdown of MMP1 in brain metastatic cells significantly blocked their ability of brain metastasis in vitro as well as in our animal model, while ectopic expression of MMP1 significantly increased the brain metastatic ability of the cells. We also found that Cox2 was highly up-regulated in brain metastatic cells and that prostaglandin was directly able to promote the expression of MMP1 at both transcriptional and translational levels leading to augmentation of brain metastasis. Furthermore, we found that Cox2 and prostaglandin were able to activate astrocytes to release CCL7, which in turn promoted self-renewal of tumor initiating cells in the brain while knockdown of Cox2 as well as treatment with Cox2 inhibitor significantly reduced the brain metastatic ability of tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo. Our results warrant further investigation on the Cox2-PGE-MMP1 pathway as a novel therapeutic target for brain metastasis despite the past failure of MMP inhibitors for the treatment of metastatic disease, possibly by developing more specific drug to MMP1 and stratifying the target patient population. Citation Format: Kerui Wu, Koji Fukuda, Fei Xing, Yingyu Zhang, Sambad Sharma, Yin Liu, Kounosuke Watabe. COX2-MMP1 pathway promotes brain metastasis by tampering with blood-brain barrier and supporting tumor initiating cells in the brain microenvironment. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2250. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2250