Mouse Collecting Duct Cells Research Articles

#4082 TAZ-KNOCKDOWN AFFECTS THE VASOPRESSIN-INDUCED AQUAPORIN-2 (AQP2) TRAFFICKING AND PROTEIN ABUNDANCE IN KIDNEY COLLECTING DUCT CELLS

Abstract Background and Aims Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), a downstream effector of the hippo signaling pathway, regulates the expression of target genes by acting as a transcription cofactor. TAZ KO mice were known to display multicystic kidneys with polyuria. We aimed to study the role of TAZ in vasopressin-induced AQP2 regulation. Method 1) siRNA-mediated knockdown of TAZ in mpkCCDc11 cells; 2) RT-qPCR, semiquantitative immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry of AQP2; 3) Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) in mpkCCDc11 cells, the mouse collecting duct cell line. Results Endogenous AQP2 expression was induced in mpkCCDc11 cells by dDAVP (10−9M) treatment. After starvation for 24 h, dDAVP (10−9M) stimulation for 15 and 30 min induced a significant AQP2 translocation to the cell membrane. In contrast, the dDAVP-induced AQP2 translocation was markedly attenuated in the cells with siRNA-mediated TAZ knockdown (TAZ-KD), despite no changes in cAMP production. Phalloidin staining demonstrated the excessive stress fiber formation in the TAZ-KD. dDAVP (10−9 M) treatment for 24 h induced AQP2 mRNA (12,608 ± 177% of the control) and AQP2 protein abundance (270 ± 18%). In contrast, dDAVP-induced increase of AQP2 mRNA (273 ± 14% of the control) and protein abundance (99 ± 17%) was significantly attenuated in TAZ-KD. Unchanged TonEBP protein abundance was observed in TAZ-KD. NGS identified several potential AQP2 transcription factors (TF), and Klf6, Irf3, Cebpb, and Nr4a1 were selected based on previous in silico database. Among them, Nr4a1 was chosen for further studies due to a significant decrease in the mRNA expression levels in TAZ-KD, as demonstrated by RT-qPCR. Conclusion TAZ is likely to affect dDAVP-induced AQP2 trafficking. This is not mediated by the changes in cAMP/PKA pathway, but other non-canonical pathways are involved. TAZ could regulate AQP2 abundance, possibly via an interaction with several TF.

ODP651 Abnormal Primary Ciliogenesis in the Developing Mouse Kidney of Glucocorticoid Receptor-Deficient Mice

Abstract Glucocorticoid (GC) hormones have well characterised regulatory roles for the development and maturation of several fetal organs, however, specific developmental roles of GCs in the fetal kidney have not been described (1). We have explored both the expression and localisation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) within the developing fetal mouse kidney during organogenesis and the effect on the transcriptome of eliminating GR expression in gene-targeted GR-deficient mice. Staining for the GR by immunohistochemistry at E14.5, E16.5 and E18.5 demonstrated widespread expression of the GR in the renal tubule and the interstitial renal mesenchyme, with strong staining in collecting ducts and increasing expression in mesenchyme up to E18.5. Loss of GR expression in GR-null mice had a profound effect on the renal transcriptome with altered expression (at an FDR of 0.5 and fold change >2. 0) for 454 genes in the GR-null mouse kidney at E18.5, with a greater number of genes showing significantly reduced mRNA levels (305) than increased mRNA levels (99) relative to wild-type controls. Interestingly these deregulated genes included key primary cilia-associated genes, such as centrosomal protein 290 (Cep290), with the largest fold change of -3.6, Cep97, Ccp110, and the primary cilia-associated kinesin Kif3A. In addition, two renal tubule markers, Kidney androgen regulated protein (Kap) (proximal tubule marker) and S100 calcium binding protein G (S100g) (distal tubule marker) were also strongly downregulated with fold changes of -8.61 and -2.5 respectively. Analysis of primary cilia in sections of E18.5 kidney using multicolour confocal microscopy demonstrated that primary cilium length was significantly decreased and abnormally projected from kidney proximal tubule cells in E18.5 GR-null mice (5.23 + 0.12, µm + SEM) compared with wild type controls (6.27+ 0.15, µm + SEM). Finally, in cultured IMCD3 mouse collecting duct cells dexamethasone treatment was shown to increase the length of primary cilia compared to vehicle-treated control cells (vehicle 2.49 + 0. 03, µm + SEM vs dexamethasone 3.17 + 0. 05 µm + SEM), an effect that could be blocked by pre-treatment with the GR antagonist RU486. Taken together these results indicate that GC signalling mediated via the GR contributes either directly or indirectly to the normal formation of primary cilia in the proximal tubule and is therefore required for normal kidney development. This also suggests that abnormalities in GR-regulation of ciliogenesis may underpin or contribute to causes of human ciliopathy conditions. 1. Cole TJ, Short KL, Hooper SB (2019) The Science of Steroids. Sem. Fetal and Neonatal Med. 24: 170-175. Presentation: No date and time listed

Uromodulin Regulates Murine Aquaporin-2 Activity via Thick Ascending Limb-Collecting Duct Cross-Talk during Water Deprivation.

Uromodulin, a urinary protein synthesized and secreted from the thick ascending limb (TAL) of the loop of Henle, is associated with hypertension through the activation of sodium reabsorption in the TAL. Uromodulin is a potential target for hypertension treatment via natriuresis. However, its biological function in epithelial cells of the distal nephron segment, particularly the collecting duct, remains unknown. Herein, we examined the regulation of uromodulin production during water deprivation in vivo as well as the effect of uromodulin on the activity of the water channel aquaporin−2 (AQP2) in vitro and in vivo using transgenic mice. Water deprivation upregulated uromodulin production; immunofluorescence experiments revealed uromodulin adhesion on the apical surface of the collecting duct. Furthermore, the activation of AQP2 was attenuated in mice lacking uromodulin. Uromodulin enhanced the phosphorylation and apical trafficking of AQP2 in mouse collecting duct cells treated with the vasopressin analog dDAVP. The uromodulin-induced apical trafficking of AQP2 was attenuated via endocytosis inhibitor treatment, suggesting that uromodulin activates AQP2 through the suppression of endocytosis. This study provides novel insights into the cross−talk between TAL and the collecting duct, and indicates that the modulation of uromodulin is a promising approach for diuresis and hypertension treatment.

Statins attenuate cholesterol-induced ROS via inhibiting NOX2/NOX4 and mitochondrial pathway in collecting ducts of the kidney

BackgroundStatins therapy has been primarily recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic kidney diseases. Statins has also been proved some benefits in lipid-induced kidney diseases. The current study aims to investigate the protection and underlying mechanisms of statins on renal tubular injuries induced by cholesterol overloaded.MethodsWe used tubular suspensions of inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells from rat kidneys and mouse collecting duct cell line mpkCCD cells to investigate the effect of statins on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by cholesterol. Protein and mRNA expression of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) /NOX4 was examined by Western blot and RT-PCR in vitro studies and in rats with 5/6 nephrectomy and high-fat diet. Mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential was observed by Mito-tracker and JC-1.ResultsStatins treatment was associated with decreased NOX2 and NOX4 protein expression and mRNA levels in 5/6Nx rats with high-fat diet. Statins treatment markedly reduced the ROS production in IMCD suspensions and mpkCCD cells. Also, statins reduced NOX2 and NOX4 protein expression and mRNA levels in cholesterol overload mpkCCD cells and improved mitochondrial morphology and function.ConclusionStatins prevented ROS production induced by cholesterol in the kidney, likely through inhibiting NOXs protein expression and improving mitochondrial function. Statins may be a therapeutic option in treating obesity-associated kidney diseases.

Dynamic Compartmentalisation of Intracellular Sodium in Collecting Duct Cells

In Principal cells (PC) of the cortical collecting duct (CCD), the highly regulated and co‐ordinated reabsorption of sodium occurs through the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) at the apical membrane and Na/K ATPase at the basolateral membrane. However, it is not known how sodium ions (Na+) are transported across the cell and if it is a regulated mechanism. We investigated trans‐cellular transport in the mouse collecting duct cell line, mCCDcl1 cells using a fluorescent sodium dye, Corona Green AM. The dye was found to accumulate in fluid‐filled domes forming between the single cell layer and the plastic dish, indicating that the cells are polarised and that Na+ ions are transported across and concentrated beneath the principal cells. Dye uptake was stimulated by aldosterone, blocked by amiloride (an ENaC inhibiter), and basolateral transport was prevented by ouabain (an Na/K ATPase blocker) thus validating the dye’s apparently faithful replication of sodium transport across the cells. Live cells exhibited a consistent pattern of sodium‐containing vesicles, of various sizes, surrounded by cytoskeleton and lipid membrane. While the smallest vesicles (~0.5µm) co‐stained with lysotracker, larger vesicles (up to 6.4µm) did not co‐stain with either lysosomal‐ or mitochondrial‐specific dyes and appeared to have internal structure, suggesting that they were multivesicular bodies. Time‐lapse confocal imaging of cells cultured on a 3D polyHYPE scaffold and subsequent movies of intracellular dynamics showed a subset of these multivesicular bodies release or take up sodium dye in a controlled manner, over the course of a few minutes. Our novel data reveal intracellular sodium compartmentalisation, which may offer new insights into intracellular sodium dynamics, possibly in response to stress, in the collecting duct.

MO021ENHANCED MCP-1 RELEASE IN EARLY AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Abstract Background and Aims Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is caused by mutations in either the PKD1 or PKD2 gene. While kidney failure typically occurs in adulthood, the disease starts in utero. The best change of preserving renal function long term might be the use of agents with few side effects as early as possible. For this approach, both better early prognostic stratification and novel treatment options are needed. The pediatric phase of ADPKD, while kidney function is still normal and before significant tissue destruction has occurred could be the best stage both to identify and study prognostic biomarkers as well as to identify novel targets for early treatment. Copeptin (a surrogate for vasopressin), epidermal growth factor (EGF) ( a measure for functional tubular mass) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) ( a chemoattractant for macrophages) are associated with severity and hold prognostic value in adults but remain unstudied in the early disease stage. Kidneys from adults with ADPKD exhibit macrophage infiltration, and a prominent role of MCP-1 secretion by tubular epithelial cells is suggested from rodent models. Method A monocentric cross-sectional study in a tertiary referral center was performed. All consenting genotyped ADPKD patients attending the outpatient pediatric ADPKD clinic of the university hospital of Leuven and age, sex and BMI matched healthy controls were included between June and October 2017. Plasma copeptin, urinary EGF and urinary MCP-1 were evaluated. MCP-1 was studied in mouse collecting duct cells, human proximal tubular cells and fetal kidney tissue. Results 53 genotyped ADPKD patients and 53 controls were included. Mean (SD) age was 10.4 (5.9) vs 10.5 (6.1) years (P=0.543), and eGFR 122.7 (39.8) vs 114.5 (23.1) ml/min/1.73 m2 (P= 0.177) in patients vs controls respectively. Outcome parameters in table. Plasma copeptin and EGF secretion were comparable between both groups. Median (IQR) urinary MCP-1 (pg/mg creatinine) was significantly higher in ADPKD patients (185.4 (213.8)) compared to controls (154.7 (98.0)) (P= 0.010). Human proximal tubular cells with a heterozygous PKD1 mutation and mouse collecting duct cells with a PKD1 knockout exhibited increased MCP-1 secretion triggered by fetal bovine serum. Human fetal ADPKD kidneys displayed prominent MCP-1 immunoreactivity and M2 macrophage infiltration. Conclusion An increase in tubular MCP-1 secretion is an early event in ADPKD, long before kidney function decline and in children with few kidney cysts. MCP-1 is a promising early disease severity marker and a potential treatment target.

Enhanced MCP-1 Release in Early Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

IntroductionAutosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) causes kidney failure typically in adulthood, but the disease starts in utero. Copeptin, epidermal growth factor (EGF), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) are associated with severity and hold prognostic value in adults but remain unstudied in the early disease stage. Kidneys from adults with ADPKD exhibit macrophage infiltration, and a prominent role of MCP-1 secretion by tubular epithelial cells is suggested from rodent models.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study, plasma copeptin, urinary EGF, and urinary MCP-1 were evaluated in a pediatric ADPKD cohort and compared with age-, sex-, and body mass index (BMI)-matched healthy controls. MCP-1 was studied in mouse collecting duct cells, human proximal tubular cells, and fetal kidney tissue.ResultsFifty-three genotyped ADPKD patients and 53 controls were included. The mean (SD) age was 10.4 (5.9) versus 10.5 (6.1) years (P = 0.543), and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 122.7 (39.8) versus 114.5 (23.1) ml/min per 1.73 m2 (P = 0.177) in patients versus controls, respectively. Plasma copeptin and EGF secretion were comparable between groups. The median (interquartile range) urinary MCP-1 (pg/mg creatinine) was significantly higher in ADPKD patients (185.4 [213.8]) compared with controls (154.7 [98.0], P = 0.010). Human proximal tubular cells with a heterozygous PKD1 mutation and mouse collecting duct cells with a PKD1 knockout exhibited increased MCP-1 secretion. Human fetal ADPKD kidneys displayed prominent MCP-1 immunoreactivity and M2 macrophage infiltration.ConclusionAn increase in tubular MCP-1 secretion is an early event in ADPKD. MCP-1 is an early disease severity marker and a potential treatment target.

Proteolytic activation of the epithelial sodium channel: role of pro‐protein convertases and prostasin

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is essential for regulating renal sodium excretion. Cleavage of the γENaC subunit increases ENaC activity both in vitro and in vivo; however, the involved endogenous proteases remain ambiguous. This study investigates the mechanistic roles of the pro‐protein convertase (PCSK) family and the serine protease prostasin in proteolytic activation of ENaC.We used the M‐1 mouse collecting duct cell line that natively expresses functional ENaC channels for pharmacological inhibition studies with pro‐protein convertase inhibitor decanoyl‐RVKR‐chloromethyl ketone (dec‐RVKR‐cmk) and serine protease inhibitor camostat mesilate (CM). Knockout cell lines of prostasin and three PCSKs were generated with the CRISPR/Cas9 system in M‐1 cells. As an index of ENaC activity, amiloride‐sensitive short‐circuit current (ISC) and transepithelial voltage (VTE) was measured on polarized cells on transwell filter supports in Ussing chambers. γENaC membrane levels and cleavage were tested by western blotting of surface biotinylated M‐1 cells with an antibody against the C‐terminal of γENaC. All values are means SE, compared with students t‐test or ANOVA as appropriate.Pro‐protein convertase inhibition decreased the amiloride‐sensitive ISC in M‐1 cells compared with controls (25.9 1.9 μA, n=5, vs. 45.7 7.0 μA, n=6, p<0.05). Similarly, serine protease inhibition decreased VTE (−34.5 7.8 mV, n=3, vs. −74.2 0.9 mV, n=3, p<0.05) but ISC was not significantly lower (68.0 8.5, n=3, vs. 74.0 2.3, n=3, n.s.). Preliminary evidence suggests that although both inhibitors decreased membrane expression of γENaC, only serine protease inhibitor treatment reduced γENaC cleavage (n=1). Knockout of the Psck3 (furin) gene by CRISPR completely abolished ENaC activity, while knockout of Pcsk4, Pcsk7, and prostasin all showed decreased ENaC activity compared to wild‐type M‐1 cells. Knockout of PCSKs reduced γENaC surface expression, but only knockout of prostasin reduced γENaC cleavage.We propose that PCSKs are not directly involved in proteolytic ENaC activation. Both pharmacological inhibition and knockout of prostasin decreased ENaC activity and γENaC cleavage, thus suggesting a potential role in proteolytic ENaC activation.Support or Funding Information The Danish Medical Research Council

(Pro)renin Receptor-Dependent Induction of Profibrotic Factors Is Mediated by COX-2/EP4/NOX-4/Smad Pathway in Collecting Duct Cells.

The binding of prorenin to the (pro)renin receptor (PRR) triggers the activation of MAPK/ERK1/2 pathway, induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), NOX-4-dependent production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the induction of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and profibrotic factors connecting tissue growth factor (CTGF) and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-I) in collecting duct (CD) cells. However, the role of COX-2 and the intracellular pathways involved are not clear. We hypothesized that the PRR activation increases profibrotic factors through COX-2-mediated PGE2 activation of E prostanoid receptor 4 (EP4), upregulation of NOX-4/ROS production, and activation of Smad pathway in mouse CD cells. Recombinant prorenin increased ROS production and protein levels of CTGF, PAI-I, and TGF-β in M-1 CD cell line. Inhibition of MAPK, NOX-4, and COX-2 prevented this effect. Inhibition of MEK, COX-2, and EP4 also prevented the upregulation of NOX-4. Because TGF-β activates Smad pathway, we evaluate the phosphorylation of Smad2 and 3. COX-2 inhibition or EP4 antagonism significantly prevented phosphorylation of Smad 2/3. Mice that were infused with recombinant prorenin showed an induction in the expression of CTGF, PAI-I, TGF-β, fibronectin, and collagen I in isolated collecting ducts as well as the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in renal tissues. COX-2 inhibition prevented this induction. These results indicate that the induction of TGF-β, CTGF, PAI-I, and ROS occurs through PRR-dependent activation of MAPK and NOX-4; however, this mechanism depends on COX-2-derived PGE2 production and the activation of EP4 and Smad pathway.

Calcium-sensing receptor mediates interleukin-1β-induced collagen expression in mouse collecting duct cells.

The mechanisms that underlie the profibrotic effect of interleukin (IL)-1β are complicated and not fully understood. Recent evidence has suggested the involvement of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in tubular injury. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate whether CaSR mediates IL-1β-induced collagen expression in cultured mouse inner medullary collecting duct cells (mIMCD3) and to determine the possible downstream signaling effector. The results showed that IL-1β significantly upregulated the expression of type I and III collagens in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, CaSR was expressed in mIMCD3 cells, and its expression was increased by increasing the concentrations and times of IL-1β treatment. Selective inhibitors (Calhex231 or NPS2143) or the siRNA of CaSR attenuated the enhanced expression of type I and III collagens. Furthermore, IL-1β increased nuclear β-catenin protein levels and decreased cytoplasmic β-catenin expression in cells. In contrast, blockage of CaSR by the pharmacological antagonists or siRNA could partially attenuate such changes in the IL-1β-induced nuclear translocation of β-catenin. DKK1, an inhibitor of β-catenin nuclear translocation, further inhibited the expression of type I and III collagens in cells treated with IL-1β plus CaSR antagonist. In summary, these data demonstrated that IL-1β-induced collagen I and III expressions in collecting duct cells might be partially mediated by CaSR and the downstream nuclear translocation of β-catenin.

8-Aminoguanine Induces Diuresis, Natriuresis, and Glucosuria by Inhibiting Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase and Reduces Potassium Excretion by Inhibiting Rac1.

Background8‐Aminoguanosine and 8‐aminoguanine are K+‐sparing natriuretics that increase glucose excretion. Most effects of 8‐aminoguanosine are due to its metabolism to 8‐aminoguanine. However, the mechanism by which 8‐aminoguanine affects renal function is unknown and is the focus of this investigation.Methods and ResultsBecause 8‐aminoguanine has structural similarities with inhibitors of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), Na+/H+ exchangers, and adenosine A1 receptors, we examined the effects of 8‐aminoguanine on ENaC activity in mouse collecting duct cells, on intracellular pH of human proximal tubular epithelial cells, on responses to a selective A1‐receptor agonist in vivo, and on renal excretory function in A1‐receptor knockout rats. These experiments showed that 8‐aminoguanine did not block ENaC, Na+/H+ exchangers, or A1 receptors. Because Rac1 enhances activity of mineralocorticoid receptors and some guanosine analogues inhibit Rac1, we examined the effects of 8‐aminoguanine on Rac1 activity in mouse collecting duct cells. Rac1 activity was significantly inhibited by 8‐aminoguanine. Because in vitro 8‐aminoguanine is a purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNPase) inhibitor, we examined the effects of a natriuretic dose of 8‐aminoguanine on urinary excretion of PNPase substrates and products. 8‐Aminoguanine increased and decreased, respectively, urinary excretion of PNPase substrates and products. Next we compared in rats the renal effects of intravenous doses of 9‐deazaguanine (PNPase inhibitor) versus 8‐aminoguanine. 8‐Aminoguanine and 9‐deazaguanine induced similar increases in urinary Na+ and glucose excretion, yet only 8‐aminoguanine reduced K+ excretion. Nsc23766 (Rac1 inhibitor) mimicked the effects of 8‐aminoguanine on K+ excretion.Conclusions8‐Aminoguanine increases Na+ and glucose excretion by blocking PNPase and decreases K+ excretion by inhibiting Rac1.

Abstract 067: Mechanism of Action of 8-Aminoguanine on Renal Excretory Function

The endogenous purines 8-aminoguanosine and 8-aminoguanine (8-AG) are K + -sparing natriuretics that increase glucose excretion and attenuate salt-induced hypertension. Most effects of 8-aminoguanosine are not direct, but require conversion in the systemic circulation to 8-AG (i.e., 8-aminoguanosine is a prodrug/prohormone). However, the mechanism of action by which 8-AG affects renal excretory function is unknown and is the subject of this investigation. Because 8-AG has structural similarities with inhibitors of epithelial Na + channels (ENaC), Na + /H + exchangers (NHE), and adenosine A 1 receptors, we examined the effects of 8-AG on amiloride-sensitive ENaC activity in mouse collecting duct cells, on intracellular pH of human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells, and on in vivo (in rats) pharmacological responses to 2-chloro-N 6 -cyclopentyladenosine (A 1 -receptor agonist). 8-AG did not block ENaC, NHE, or A 1 receptors. Because Rac1 enhances activity of mineralocorticoid receptors and some guanosine analogues inhibit Rac1, we examined the effects of 8-AG on Rac1 activity in mouse collecting duct cells. Rac1 activity was significantly ( P =0.024) inhibited by 8-AG (30 μM; from 2.5 ± 0.7 to 1.7 ± 0.7 arbitrary units). Because 8-AG is an inhibitor of purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNPase; metabolizes inosine to hypoxanthine and guanosine to guanine), we compared the renal effects (in rats) of approximately equipotent intravenous doses of 8-AG (33.5 μmol/kg) vs. 9-deazaguanine (9-DG; 67 μmol/kg; PNPase inhibitor). 8-AG and 9-DG induced similar increases in urinary Na + (μmol/30 min; 8-AG, from 4.4 ± 2.0 to 38 ± 17; 9-DG, from 5.6 ± 3.3 to 34 ± 8.6) and glucose (μg/30 min; 8-AG, from 31 ± 17 to 225 ± 77; 9-DG, from 6.9 ± 3.9 to 144 ± 81) excretion. Intravenous 8-AG increased urinary excretion of guanosine and inosine (PNPase substrates), yet decreased excretion of guanine and hypoxanthine (PNPase products). 8-AG reduced K + excretion (μmol/30 min; 8-AG, from 29 ± 6.6 to 5.4 ± 1.7) whereas 9-DG did not. However, the Rac1 inhibitor Nsc23766 (9.4 μmol/kg) mimicked the effects of 8-AG on K + excretion (μmol/30 min; from 40 ± 7.1 to 18 ± 6.5). Conclusion: Likely 8-AG increases Na + and glucose excretion by blocking PNPase and decreases K + excretion by inhibiting Rac1.

Aptamer Grafting onto (on) and into (in) Pegylated Gold Nanoparticles: Physicochemical Characterization and In vitro Cytotoxicity Investigation in Renal Cells

Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) have already a remarkable interest as viable biomedical materials. Additionally, the strategy of using biomolecules to modify their surface properties is a very attractive as it leads to the generation of new nanometric hybrid materials. In this respect, aptamers, functional small single-strand oligonucleotides (DNA or RNA), are ideal candidates for molecular targeting applications since the high affinity to their target molecules. Thus, the urge of new and effective methodologies to graft aptamers on AuNPs is rapidly increasing especially for applications in bioanalysis and biomedicine, including early diagnosis and drug delivery. Here we used two chemical methodologies to conjugate the aptamer (APT) onto pegylated gold nanoparticles (PEG-AuNPs): the carbodiimide chemistry (EDC/NHS) (methodology ON) and the chelation-bond (R-Au bond) (methodology IN). The aptamer's conjugations with the PEGAuNPs were characterized by UV-Vis absorption, Raman Spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, the potential nanotoxicity of the two aptamer-conjugated AuNPs was evaluated on two different renal cell lines, being the kidneys one of the most important site of bioaccumulation upon systemic circulation. Interestingly, the two aptamer-conjugated AuNPs showed different cytotoxicity when exposed to human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and mouse collecting duct cells (M-1), indicating that cell viability has to be taken into account when choosing the proper strategy for NPs production. In conclusion this study provides two effective methods to graft aptamers on NPs and important insights regarding NPs conformation and the relative cell viability.

Examining the Effects of Aldosterone on Putative Target Genes in Mouse Collecting Duct Cells

Hypertension is the number one risk factor for premature death worldwide, and yet many cases present with no obvious underlying cause. Understanding the normal regulation of blood pressure may help determine these underlying causes and reduce hypertension rates and deaths. Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that binds to the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and acts as a primary blood pressure regulator. A recent microarray and preliminary gene expression data from the Gumz Lab suggested two novel aldosterone target genes: growth‐arrest specific 5 (GAS5) and ubiquitin specific protease 8 (USP8). This research explored the relationship between aldosterone and the two potential target genes. It has been shown that GAS5 acts as a decoy for the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and reduces its ability to activate target gene transcription in the presence of cortisol. Additional data suggests that GAS5 may do the same for aldosterone and MR. USP8 deubiquitinates ENaC and therefore the upregulation of USP8 by aldosterone would facilitate increased activity of ENaC and increased blood pressure. Based on these preliminary data it was hypothesized that aldosterone will first act to increase the expression of both GAS5 and USP8, but as GAS5 accumulates it will act as a decoy for aldosterone bound MR and thereby reduce its own expression as well as that of other aldosterone regulated genes, including USP8. To test this hypothesis a time course of 0, 4, 8, and 24 hour aldosterone treatment was administered to mouse inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD3) and mouse principal kidney cortical collecting duct (mpkCCD) cells. Total RNA from each time point was isolated and converted to cDNA. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) has been completed for GAS5, SGK1, and actin. Assays are currently underway to measure the expression of USP8 and ENaC. Results showed no increase in GAS5 expression in both mpkCCD and IMCD3 cells at any time point (ANOVA, p=0.298, 0.612). In contrast, the expression of SGK1, a known target of aldosterone, was significantly increased in both mpkCCD and IMCD3 cells (ANOVA, p=0.006, 0.01). To further our understanding of the regulation of GAS5 by aldosterone, we cloned the promoter region of the GAS5 gene into a pGL3 expression vector (Promega, Inc.). Current work is aimed at testing the effects of aldosterone treatment on the GAS5 promoter in a luciferase assay system.

Elf5 is a principal cell lineage specific transcription factor in the kidney that contributes to Aqp2 and Avpr2 gene expression

The mammalian kidney collecting ducts are critical for water, electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis and develop as a branched network of tubular structures composed of principal cells intermingled with intercalated cells. The intermingled nature of the different collecting duct cell types has made it challenging to identify unique and critical factors that mark and/or regulate the development of the different collecting duct cell lineages. Here we report that the canonical Notch signaling pathway components, RBPJ and Presinilin1 and 2, are involved in patterning the mouse collecting duct cell fates by maintaining a balance between principal cell and intercalated cell fates. The relatively reduced number of principal cells in Notch-signaling-deficient kidneys offered a unique genetic leverage to identify critical principal cell-enriched factors by transcriptional profiling. Elf5, which codes for an ETS transcription factor, is one such gene that is down-regulated in kidneys with Notch-signaling-deficient collecting ducts. Additionally, Elf5 is among the earliest genes up regulated by ectopic expression of activated Notch1 in the developing collecting ducts. In the kidney, Elf5 is first expressed early within developing collecting ducts and remains on in mature principal cells. Lineage tracing of Elf5-expressing cells revealed that they are committed to the principal cell lineage by as early as E16.5. Over-expression of ETS Class IIa transcription factors, including Elf5, Elf3 and Ehf, increase the transcriptional activity of the proximal promoters of Aqp2 and Avpr2 in cultured ureteric duct cell lines. Conditional inactivation of Elf5 in the developing collecting ducts results in a small but significant reduction in the expression levels of Aqp2 and Avpr2 genes. We have identified Elf5 as an early maker of the principal cell lineage that contributes to the expression of principal cell specific genes.

Systems-level analysis reveals selective regulation of Aqp2 gene expression by vasopressin.

Vasopressin-mediated regulation of renal water excretion is defective in a variety of water balance disorders in humans. It occurs in part through long-term mechanisms that regulate the abundance of the aquaporin-2 water channel in renal collecting duct cells. Here, we use deep DNA sequencing in mouse collecting duct cells to ask whether vasopressin signaling selectively increases Aqp2 gene transcription or whether it triggers a broadly targeted transcriptional network. ChIP-Seq quantification of binding sites for RNA polymerase II was combined with RNA-Seq quantification of transcript abundances to identify genes whose transcription is regulated by vasopressin. (View curated dataset at https://helixweb.nih.gov/ESBL/Database/Vasopressin/). The analysis revealed only 35 vasopressin-regulated genes (of 3659) including Aqp2. Increases in RNA polymerase II binding and mRNA abundances for Aqp2 far outstripped corresponding measurements for all other genes, consistent with the conclusion that vasopressin-mediated transcriptional regulation is highly selective for Aqp2. Despite the overall selectivity of the net transcriptional response, vasopressin treatment was associated with increased RNA polymerase II binding to the promoter proximal region of a majority of expressed genes, suggesting a nearly global positive regulation of transcriptional initiation with transcriptional pausing. Thus, the overall net selectivity appears to be a result of selective control of transcriptional elongation.

Transcription Factor Elf3 Mediates Vasopressin‐Regulated Aquaporin‐2 Expression in Renal Collecting Duct Cells

Vasopressin is a pituitary peptide hormone responsible for aquaporin‐2 (AQP2) gene expression in the kidney collecting ducts. Low levels of AQP2 gene expression are associated with a number of water balance disorders including lithium induced‐nephrogenic diabetes insipidus; however, the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we studied the roles of the ETS‐related transcription factor Elf3 in vasopressin‐mediated AQP2 gene expression. In the mouse collecting duct cell model mpkCCD, vasopressin increased AQP2 mRNA and protein levels in a time‐dependent manner. Stable Elf3 knockdown significantly reduced basal and vasopressin‐induced increases in AQP2 mRNA and protein levels. Overexpression of Elf3 isoform 1 or 2 enhanced basal and vasopressin‐induced AQP2 promoter activity and AQP2 mRNA levels. Vasopressin did not affect Elf3 mRNA levels but induced nuclear translocation of V5‐tagged Elf3 in the mpkCCD cells. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed that the V5‐tagged Elf3 interacted with the AQP2 promoter DNA and that the interaction was inhibited with a competitor AQP2 promoter DNA or an antibody against the V5‐tagged Elf3. Lithium reduced Elf3 mRNA level and reduced AQP2 mRNA and protein levels in the mpkCCD cells in the presence of vasopressin. Similar observations were made in the mice that manifested polyuria and polydipsia on a lithium diet for two weeks. Taken together, our data support a role of Elf3 in vasopressin‐mediated AQP2 gene expression and provide a potential explanation to lithium induced‐nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan to MJY (101‐2320‐B‐002‐038‐MY3) and National Taiwan University Hospital to SLL (NTUH103‐S2405).

Abstract 046: Deep Sequencing in mpkCCD Collecting Duct Cells Identifies Transcriptional Response to Vasopressin

Blood pressure regulation depends in part on control of ion and water transport in the renal collecting duct by vasopressin and other hormones. To identify genes that are transcriptionally regulated by vasopressin in cultured mouse collecting duct cells (mpkCCD), we carried out both RNA-seq (n=9) and ChIP-seq for RNA polymerase II (Pol-II, n=3) after 24-hr treatment with vasopressin analog dDAVP or vehicle (Illumina HiSeq2000 sequencer). RNA-seq analysis showed significant changes in 33 transcripts out of 8393 quantified (Volcano plot thresholds: p<0.05 (Wilcoxon) and log2[ratio] outside of 99% confidence interval (CI) for vehicle-vs-vehicle controls). More transcripts increased (26) than decreased (7). The largest increases were seen for the transcriptional coactivator Cited1 (log2[dDAVP/Vehicle]= 5.2) and the water channel Aqp2 (log2[dDAVP/Vehicle]= 4.2). The ChIP-seq analysis showed significantly increased RNA-Pol-II binding in 209 genes versus only 9 with decreases. Plotting RNA-seq data versus ChIP-seq data for 3883 genes revealed 43 genes that exceeded the 95% CI for control-vs-control measurements for both variables, i.e., are transcriptionally regulated. The transcriptionally regulated genes included those involved in control of Na+/Cl- transport and/or blood pressure, viz. Fxyd4 (aldosterone-regulated channel-inducing factor), Tsc22d3 (the aldosterone-regulated leucine-zipper protein GILZ), Atp1b1 (Na+-K+-ATPase beta subunit) and Sik1 (salt-inducible kinase 1). Among transcriptionally upregulated genes were several transcription factors ( Elf3 , Nfkbiz , Nr4a1 , Myc ) that form the core of a proposed vasopressin/cAMP-activated transcriptional network. Conclusions: 1) Vasopressin signaling effects on transcription are biased with more genes increased than decreased. 2) Among the genes that are transcriptionally regulated in response to vasopressin are several that have been implicated in regulation of salt and water transport in the collecting duct.

Vasopressin Type 2 Receptor (V2R) Activation Increases Renin Expression in Mouse Renal Collecting Duct Cells through cAMP/PKA/CREB Pathway

Renin synthesis in juxtaglomerular (JG) cells is mediated by intracellular cAMP accumulation and activation of PKA/CREB pathway. We have demonstrated that renin is also expressed in the principal cells of the collecting duct (CD) and that its synthesis is increased in rodent models of angiotensin (Ang) II-dependent hypertension, despite the suppression of renin in JG cells. Vasopressin is one of the final effectors of the renin angiotensin system (RAS). Vasopressin type 2-receptor (V2R) activation leads to the activation of cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway and aquaporin-2 expression in the apical plasma membrane of principal cells of the CD. We hypothesize that the activation of V2R increases renin synthesis in mouse CD cells through PKA/CREB pathway. Desmopressin (DDAVP 10-6 mol/L, 4 h), a selective V2R agonist, increased renin mRNA and prorenin/renin protein levels in cell lysate and culture media in M-1 CD cell line, while co-treatment with DDAVP + H89 (PKA inhibitor) prevented this effect. DDAVP also increased CREB phosphorylation and CREB nuclear localization, while H89 blunted this effect. In mice subjected to 48 h of water deprivation, renin was increased in renal medullary CDs. Because water deprivation may indirectly activate RAS, we evaluated the effect of AngII plus DDAVP in M-1 CD cells. Combined treatment further increased prorenin protein expression suggesting that AngII may enhance stimulation of cAMP accumulation and PKA/CREB pathway. These results indicate that the activation of V2R stimulates renin synthesis in CD cells via PKA/CREB pathway.

H-Ras mediates the inhibitory effect of epidermal growth factor on the epithelial Na+ channel.

The present study investigates the role of small G-proteins of the Ras family in the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-activated cellular signalling pathway that downregulates activity of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC). We found that H-Ras is a key component of this EGF-activated cellular signalling mechanism in M1 mouse collecting duct cells. Expression of a constitutively active H-Ras mutant inhibited the amiloride-sensitive current. The H-Ras-mediated signalling pathway that inhibits activity of ENaC involves c-Raf, and that the inhibitory effect of H-Ras on ENaC is abolished by the MEK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059. The inhibitory effect of H-Ras is not mediated by Nedd4-2, a ubiquitin protein ligase that regulates the abundance of ENaC at the cell surface membrane, or by a negative effect of H-Ras on proteolytic activation of the channel. The inhibitory effects of EGF and H-Ras on ENaC, however, were not observed in cells in which expression of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) had been knocked down by siRNA. These findings suggest that the inhibitory effect of EGF on ENaC-dependent Na+ absorption is mediated via the H-Ras/c-Raf, MEK/ERK signalling pathway, and that Cav-1 is an essential component of this EGF-activated signalling mechanism. Taken together with reports that mice expressing a constitutive mutant of H-Ras develop renal cysts, our findings suggest that H-Ras may play a key role in the regulation of renal ion transport and renal development.