Transepithelial Resistance Measurements Research Articles

Iron transfer across a functional syncytialized trophoblast monolayer

Studying iron transfer across trophoblast monolayers is crucial given the significance of iron in maintaining a healthy pregnancy and supporting fetal growth and development. To get insights into the complex mechanism of transplacental iron transfer, we developed a standardized Transwell®-based monolayer model using BeWo (clone b30) cells.Our proposed method is divided into two parts: 1. the monitoring of monolayer formation and 2. the subsequent performance of an iron transfer assay. Monolayer formation on the Transwell® system is monitored by continuous measurement of transepithelial resistance (TEER) using a volt-ohm meter. In parallel, the leakage is monitored by assessing the paracellular permeability (apparent permeability coefficient, Papp) of the fluorescent dye Lucifer yellow. The subsequent iron transfer assay examines apical Transferrin-mediated iron uptake, intracellular storage, and transfer of iron to the basal compartment of the Transwell®. The treatment of BeWo cells with and without forskolin (20 μM) allows to investigate the effect of syncytium formation on iron transfer kinetics.Our results revealed that monolayer formation in BeWo cells takes approximately 5-6 days. Forskolin-treated BeWo cells transport significantly more iron to the fetal compartment indicating that syncytialization promotes iron transfer across the placental barrier.This method enables the fundamental exploration of materno-fetal iron transfer mechanisms and their regulatory processes, which directly impact fetal well-being and development during pregnancy.

#1288 Bioinformatic analysis of phosphate transporters in peritoneal cells and tissues and phosphate transport kinetics in vitro

Abstract Background and Aims Hyperphosphatemia is frequent in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients due to limited dialytic clearance, and significantly increases cardiovascular risk. Molecular mechanisms of phosphate removal across the peritoneal membrane remain unclear, PD specific in vitro models for phosphate transport and modulator studies are not established. Method Phosphate transporter expression was assessed by RNAseq in mesothelial cells (HPMC, MeT5A) and human venous and microvascular endothelial cells (HUVEC, HCMEC). Transcriptome profiles of microdissected omental arterioles from 10 children with normal kidney function (NKF), 15 with chronic kidney disease (CKD5), and 10 children on PD were analyzed for phosphate transporter expression. Specific phosphate transporter localization and abundance in parietal peritoneum membranes and in the cell lines were assessed by immunostaining. In Transwell system, a phosphate transport model across polarized monolayers was established. Cell viability and integrity were verified by MTT assay and transepithelial resistance measurement (TER). Results Out of nine identified phosphate transporters, PiT1 (SLC20A1) and PiT2 (SLC20A2) exhibited high expression in all four cell lines, while SLC34A2 was specific in HPMC and SLC34A3 in MeT5A. In human arterioles, four phosphate transporters, SLC34A1, PiT1, PiT2, and SLC17A1, were detected. Arteriolar PiT1 was two-fold more abundant in PD patients treated with low glucose degradation product (GDP) fluids compared to those with CKD5 and NKF. In parietal peritoneal membranes, PiT1 was abundant in mesothelial and endothelial cells, with no difference between children with NKF, CKD5 and low GDP PD treatment. Concentration and time dependent phosphate kinetics across polarized mesothelial cells were studied in Transwells. Upon increased phosphate concentration in medium (1 mM and 2 mM vs. 0.1 mM), cells didn´t show signs of impaired viability, reduced TER or junction dysregulation (ZO-1 abundance) for up to 12 h. Independent of the added phosphate concentration, 60% of expected equilibrium was achieved after 12 h. Addition of PFA (SLC20/34 sodium-phosphate cotransporter inhibitor) alone or in combination with Tenapanor (an NHE3 blocker inhibiting paracellular phosphate transport) reduced phosphate transport across mesothelial cells by 10% and 20%, respectively. Conclusion We describe phosphate transporter expression and localization in peritoneal cells, in arterioles and parietal peritoneal tissues, and the impact of CKD5 and PD. The Transwell system allowed for quantification of phosphate transport across cell barriers and demonstrated the role of peritoneal sodium-phosphate cotransporter and of the paracellular route for phosphate transport across the mesothelial cell barrier. Further, yet unknown phosphate transport mechanisms should be active.

Study of Antibacterial Drugs’ Nephrotoxicity in the RPTEC Cell Line

The created cell line of human proximal renal tubules RPTEC/TERT1 showed maximum compliance with primary human RPTEC, which makes it optimal for use in studies of the nephrotoxic properties of xenobiotics. Transepithelial resistance measurement (TEER) is a valuable non-invasive method that can be used to quantify the integrity of the cell barrier at various stages of cell growth and differentiation, as well as to predict the toxicity and permeability of drugs.The aim of the study was to examine the dynamics of changes in transepithelial resistance in the model of the RPTEC/TERT1 cell line during incubation with drugs with nephrotoxic effects.Material and methods. The human proximal renal tubule cell line RPTEC/TERT was obtained from the ATCC cell culture bank. Cells at passage 14 were used in the experiment. The following drugs were studied: cisplatin: 2.5 mcg/ml; vancomycin: 50 mcg/ml; doripenem — 20mcg/ml; cefepim — 150mcg/ml. 4–5 repetitions were performed for each concentration of the drug in the experiment. THEER measurements were carried out 4–5 times for each well.Results. Cisplatin, vancomycin, doripenem, and cefepim in the concentrations used do not show a cytotoxic effect on the RPTEC cell line according to TEER dynamics.

Half-Sandwich Arene Ruthenium(II) Thiosemicarbazone Complexes: Evaluation of Anticancer Effect on Primary and Metastatic Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines.

In this study, we describe the synthesis, characterization and antiproliferative activity of three organo-ruthenium(II) half-sandwich complexes [RuCl(η6-p-cym)(N,S-L)]Cl (I, II, and III). To form these complexes, three thiosemicarbazone ligands (TSCs) were synthesized; L = 5-nitro-2-carboxyaldehyde-thiophen-N-methyl-thiosemicarbazone, (L1); 2-acetyl-5-bromo-thiophen-N-methyl-thiosemicarbazone, (L2) and 2-acetyl-5-bromo-thiophen-N,N-dimethyl-thiosemicarbazone, (L3). The isolated compounds were analyzed using spectroscopic techniques such as elemental analysis, conductance measurements, FT-IR, 1H NMR spectroscopy, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and single-crystal XRD. Our results demonstrated that the synthesized thiosemicarbazone ligands (TSCs) are bound to the metal ion as a bidentate ligand that coordinates through the thiocarbonyl sulfur and azomethine nitrogen atoms in all complexes (I, II, and III). The X-ray crystal structures of L1 and L2 revealed that both compounds are crystallized in the triclinic crystal system with space group P-1. The biological potency of newly synthesized TSC ligands (L1, L2, and L3) and their corresponding ruthenium complexes (I, II, and III) were investigated on human primary ovarian (A2780) and human metastatic ovarian (OVCAR-3) cell lines. To get detailed information respecting antitumor properties, cytotoxicity, DNA/BSA binding affinity, cellular uptake, DNA binding competition, and trans-epithelial resistance measurement assays were performed. Our results demonstrate that newly synthesized ruthenium(II) complexes possess potential biological activity. Moreover, we observe that the ruthenium complexes reported here show anticancer activity on primary (A2780) and metastatic (OVCAR-3) ovarian cancer cells.

Developing a reproducible protocol for culturing functional confluent monolayers of differentiated equine oviduct epithelial cells†.

We describe the development of two methods for obtaining confluent monolayers of polarized, differentiated equine oviduct epithelial cells (EOEC) in Transwell inserts and microfluidic chips. EOECs from the ampulla were isolated post-mortem and seeded either (1) directly onto a microporous membrane as differentiated EOECs (direct seeding protocol) or (2) first cultured to a confluent de-differentiated monolayer in conventional wells, then trypsinized and seeded onto a microporous membrane (re-differentiation protocol). Maintenance or induction of EOEC differentiation in these systems was achieved by air–liquid interface introduction. Monolayers cultured via both protocols were characterized by columnar, cytokeratin 19-positive EOECs in Transwell inserts. However, only the re-differentiation protocol could be transferred successfully to the microfluidic chips. Integrity of the monolayers was confirmed by transepithelial resistance measurements, tracer flux, and the demonstration of an intimate network of tight junctions. Using the direct protocol, 28% of EOECs showed secondary cilia at the apical surface in a diffuse pattern. In contrast, re-differentiated polarized EOECs rarely showed secondary cilia in either culture system (>90% of the monolayers showed <1% ciliated EOECs). Occasionally (5–10%), re-differentiated monolayers with 11–27% EOECs with secondary cilia in a diffuse pattern were obtained. Additionally, nuclear progesterone receptor expression was found to be inhibited by simulated luteal phase hormone concentrations, and sperm binding to cilia was higher for re-differentiated EOEC monolayers exposed to estrogen–progesterone concentrations mimicking the follicular rather than luteal phase. Overall, a functional equine oviduct model was established with close morphological resemblance to in vivo oviduct epithelium.

CTRP3 promotes TNF-α-induced apoptosis and barrier dysfunction in salivary epithelial cells

BackgroundC1q/tumour necrosis factor-related protein 3 (CTRP3) plays important roles in metabolism and inflammatory responses in various cells and tissues. However, the expression and function of CTRP3 in salivary glands have not been explored. MethodsThe expression and distribution of CTRP3 were detected by western blot, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. The effects of CTRP3 on tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced apoptosis and barrier dysfunction were detected by flow cytometry, western blot, co-immunoprecipitation, and measurement of transepithelial resistance and paracellular tracer flux. ResultsCTRP3 was distributed in both acinar and ductal cells of human submandibular gland (SMG) and was primarily located in the ducts of rat and mouse SMGs. TNF-α increased the apoptotic rate, elevated expression of cleaved caspase 3 and cytochrome C, and reduced B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) levels in cultured human SMG tissue and SMG-C6 cells, and CTRP3 further enhanced TNF-α-induced apoptosis response. Additionally, CTRP3 aggravated TNF-α-increased paracellular permeability. Mechanistically, CTRP3 promoted TNF-α-enhanced TNF type I receptor (TNFR1) expression, inhibited the expression of cellular Fas-associated death domain (FADD)-like interleukin-1β converting enzyme inhibitory protein (c-FLIP), and increased the recruitment of FADD with receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 and caspase 8. Moreover, CTRP3 was significantly increased in the labial gland of Sjögren's syndrome patients and in the serum and SMG of nonobese diabetic mice. ConclusionsThese findings suggest that the salivary glands are a novel source of CTRP3 synthesis and secretion. CTRP3 might promote TNF-α-induced cell apoptosis through the TNFR1-mediated complex II pathway.

Caco-2 cells monolayer as an in-vitro model for probiotic strain translocation

Background: Caco-2 cells monolayer is one of invitro models to evaluate the translocation capacity of Lactobacillus spp probioticstrains. The translocation is influenced by mucosa permeability of enterocytes as shown by increasing transepithelial resistance (TER) and formation of tight junction proteins. The pore size of the supported permeable membrane used in in vitro assay was one of the crucial factors in performing bacterial translocation assay. Almost no study has been conducted using Caco-2 cells monolayer grown on 8-μm pore size polycarbonate membrane for evaluating probiotics translocation. Therefore this study aimed to determine whether the Caco-2 cells monolayer model was suitable as an in vitro translocation model.Methods: Caco-2 cells monolayer was seeded onto 8-μm collagen-coated polycarbonate membrane insert Transwell®. Differentiation of Caco-2 cells was detected by measuring the TER, while the ZO-1 protein (the tight junction proteins) was detected by immunofluorescence. H2O2 was used as a tight junction disruptive agent. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 software to compare the mean of TER measurement between untreated and H2O2-treated Caco-2 cells monolayer.Results: The result showed that the TER of Caco-2 cells monolayer was gradually increasing until day 14, reaching more than 800 ohm.cm2. Furthermore, the ZO-1 protein was successfully detected, indicated the tight junction formation.  TER value of H2O2-treated cells showed significantly lower than that of untreated cells (P&lt;0.05), indicating a disturbance of cells monolayer integrity. Lactobacillus rhamnosus FBB81 was used for validating the translocation. There was no translocation observed; however, translocation was observed in H2O2-treated cells.Conclusion: Altogether suggests that Caco-2 cells grown on 8 μm-pore size permeable filters could be considered as a suitable in vitro model for probiotics strains translocation.

Nanoparticle induced barrier function assessment at liquid-liquid and air-liquid interface in novel human lung epithelia cell lines.

Inhalation is the most relevant entry point for nanoparticles (NPs) into the human body. To date, toxicity testing of nanomaterials in respect to oral, dermal and inhalative application is mainly based on animal experiments. The development of alternative test methods is the subject of current research. In vitro models can help to investigate mechanistic aspects, as e.g. cellular uptake or genotoxicity and might help to reduce in vivo testing. Lung cell lines are proper in vitro tools to assess NP toxicity. In respect to this, various cell models have been developed during the recent years, but often lack in a proper intact barrier function. However, besides other important in vivo criteria which are still missing like e.g. circulation, this is one basic prerequisite to come closer to the in vivo situation in certain mechanistic aspects such as particle translocation which is an important task for risk assessment of nanomaterials. Novel developed in vitro models may help to investigate the translocation of nanomaterials from the lung. We investigated the barrier function of the recently developed human lung cell lines CI-hAELVi and CI-huAEC. The cells were further exposed to CeO2 NPs and ZnO NPs, and their suitability as in vitro models for toxicological investigations was proven. The obtained data were compared with data generated with the A549 cell line. Measurement of transepithelial resistance and immunohistochemical examination of tight junctions confirmed the formation of a functional barrier for both cell lines for submerged and air-liquid cultivation. For particle exposure, hAELVi and huAEC cells showed comparable results to A549 cells without losing the barrier function. CeO2 NP exposure revealed no toxicity for all cell lines. In contrast, ZnO NPs was toxic for all cell lines at a concentration between 10-50 μg ml-1. Due to the comparable results to A549 cells CI-hAELVi and CI-huAEC offer new opportunities to investigate nanoparticle cell interactions more realistic than recent 2D cell models.

Osmotically induced removal of lens epithelial cells to prevent PCO after pediatric cataract surgery: Pilot study to assess feasibility

Development of an osmotic-shock technique to remove human lens epithelial cells (LECs) as a preventive measure to address posterior capsule opacification (PCO) after pediatric cataract surgery. Department of Genetics, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, England, and Department of Ophthalmology, Ruijin Hospital, Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China. Laboratory study. Various tissue preparations of human LECs (cultured on coverslips/collagen-coated membrane inserts, human lens capsule biopsies, and lens organ cultured PCO models) were subjected to a single or incremental hyperosmotic shock (NaCl, 350-4000 mOsm/L) in the presence of inhibitors of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter (NKCC) (to disable the regulatory volume increase [RVI] process). The integrity of the cell monolayer was determined by phase-contrast microscopy, viability assays, and measurement of transepithelial resistance. Hyperosmotic shock (400 mOsm/L) caused rapid cell shrinkage (<5minutes) in all the LEC models studied. In the absence of the NKCC inhibitor, the shrunk cells gradually returned to their original cell volume and architecture over time, while still exposed to the hyperosmotic shock. However, inhibition of the RVI process disabled the ability for restoration of cell volume leading to persistent cell shrinkage, subsequently resulting in cell detachment from the underlying support medium. Hyperosmotic shock in the presence of inhibitors of the RVI process was effective in rapidly detaching LECs from their basement membranes. This technique could potentially facilitate removal of residual LECs left on the lens capsule after cataract surgery, thus decreasing or eliminating the risk for aggressive cell proliferation and the development of PCO.

Creatine-loading preserves intestinal barrier function during organ preservation

We have developed a novel, intraluminal preservation solution that is tailored to the metabolic requirements of the intestine. This organ-specific solution addresses many of the problems associated with low temperature organ storage including energy, oxidative and osmotic stresses. However, conservation of energy levels remains one of the most difficult obstacles to overcome due to the inherent sensitivity of the mucosa to ischemia. Creatine-loading has become a popular and scientifically proven method of augmenting energy reserves in athletes performing anaerobic burst work activities. We hypothesized that if we could develop a method that was able to augment cellular energy levels, the structure and function of the mucosa would be more effectively preserved. The purpose of this study was to determine if creatine-loading is a feasible and effective strategy for preserving the intestine.Our data indicate that creatine loading has significant impact on energy levels during storage with corresponding improvements in mucosal structure and function. Both of our rodent models, a) continuous perfusion for 4 h and b) a single flush with our intraluminal preservation solution supplemented with 50 mM creatine, demonstrated significant improvements in creatine phosphate, ATP, Energy Charge and ATP/AMP following cold storage (P < 0.05). Notably, after 10 h creatine phosphate was 324% greater in Creatine-treated tissues compared to Controls (P < 0.05). Preferential utilization of glutathione in the Creatine group was effective at controlling oxidative injury after 10 h storage (P < 0.05). Improvements in barrier function and electrophysiology with creatine-treatment reflected superior mucosal integrity after 10 h storage; Permeability and Transepithelial resistance measurements remained at fresh tissue values. This was in stark contrast to Control tissues in which permeability rose to >300% of fresh tissue values (P < 0.005) and transepithelial resistance dropped by 95% (P < 0.005). After 10 h storage, Park's grading of histologic injury reflected extensive villus denudation (grade 4) in control tissues compared to healthy tissue (grade 0) in the Creatine group. This study demonstrates that a strategy of creatine supplementation of our intraluminal preservation solution facilitates the preservation of the intestinal mucosa during storage.

Role of differential phosphorylation of JAM‐A in regulating epithelial barrier function

Junctional adhesion molecule‐A (JAM‐A) is an epithelial tight junction protein that has been shown to play an important role in regulating intestinal permeability through association with a scaffold signaling complex containing ZO‐2, Afadin and the small GTPase Rap2. A previous study identified serine phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic tail of JAM‐A (p‐S284) and implicated its role in stabilizing tight junctions in MDCK cells. Here, we report that the cytoplasmic tail of JAM‐A is tyrosine phosphorylated (p‐Y280) under inflammatory conditions associated with loss of barrier. While minimal Y280 phosphorylation was observed in model intestinal epithelial monolayers with assembled intercellular junctions, serine phosphorylation was robust. Conversely, exposure of epithelial cells to cytokines IL‐22 or IL‐17a resulted in time dependent increase in p‐Y280 that paralleled compromised epithelial barrier function assessed by measurement of transepithelial resistance to passive ion flow or paracellular flux of 4kDa dextran. Consistent with these in‐vitro findings, in normal colonic mucosa, there was prominent serine phosphorylation but no tyrosine phosphorylation of JAM‐A. However, the opposite was observed in colonic mucosa of individuals with ulcerative colitis and in mice with experimentally induced colitis (DSS) where serine phosphorylation was lost and tyrosine phosphorylation was robust. Coimmunoprecipitation and knockdown experiments identified a role of Src kinase Yes‐1 in mediating tyrosine phosphorylation of JAM‐A. Consistent with these findings, treatment of epithelial monolayers with the Src kinase inhibitor PP2 was able to partially rescue the barrier defect associated with cytokine exposure and tyrosine phosphorylation of JAM‐A (p‐Y280). Analysis of protein interactions with JAM‐A under conditions of tyrosine phosphorylation revealed loss of tight junction‐associated p‐JAM‐A Y280 and scaffold proteins ZO‐2 and active Rap2 in parallel with compromise in the epithelial barrier function. These results suggest that JAM‐A mediated regulation of intestinal epithelial permeability is dependent on a delicate balance between serine and tyrosine phosphorylation events that are altered during inflammation resulting in a leaky barrier.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Spontaneous generation of a novel foetal human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell line available for investigation on phagocytosis and morphogenesis.

ObjectivesPrimary retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells have a limited capacity to re‐establish epithelial morphology and to maintain native RPE function in vitro, and all commercially available RPE cell lines have drawbacks of morphology or function; therefore, the establishment of new RPE cell lines with typical characteristics of RPE would be helpful in further understanding of their physiological and pathological mechanisms. Here, we firstly report a new spontaneously generated RPE line, fhRPE‐13A, from a 13‐week aborted foetus. We aimed to investigate its availability as a RPE model.Materials and methods RNA‐seq data were mapped to the human genome assembly hg19. Global transcriptional data were analysed by Weighted Gene Co‐expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The morphology and molecular characteristics were examined by immunofluorescence, transmission electron micrographs, PCR and western blot. Photoreceptor outer segments (POS) phagocytosis assay and transepithelial resistance measurement (TER) were performed to assess phagocytic activity and barrier function, respectively.ResultsThe fhRPE‐13A cells showed typical polygonal morphology and normal biological processes of RPE. Meanwhile they were capable of POS phagocytosis in vitro, and the expression level of TYR and TYRP1 were significantly higher than that in ARPE‐19 cells.ConclusionsThe foetal human RPE line fhRPE‐13A is a valuable system for researching phagocytosis and morphogenesis of RPE in vitro.

A Novel Impedance Biosensor for Measurement of Trans-Epithelial Resistance in Cells Cultured on Nanofiber Scaffolds.

Nanofibrous scaffolds provide high surface area for cell attachment, and resemble the structure of the collagen fibers which naturally occur in the basement membrane and extracellular matrix. A label free and non-destructive method of assessing the interaction of cell tissue and scaffolds aids in the ability to discern the effective quality and magnitude of any scaffold modifications. Impedance cell spectroscopy is a biosensing method that employs a functional approach to assessing the cell monolayer. The electrical impedance barrier function of a cell monolayer represents the level of restriction to diffusion of charged species between all adjacent cells across an entire contiguous cellular monolayer. The impedance signals from many individual paracellular pathways contribute to the bulk measurement of the whole monolayer barrier function. However, the scaffold substrate must be entirely porous in order to be used with electrochemical cell impedance spectroscopy (ECIS) and cells must be closely situated to the electrodes. For purposes of evaluating cell-scaffold constructs for tissue engineering, non-invasive evaluation of cell properties while seeded on scaffolds is critical. A Transwell-type assay makes a measurement across a semi-permeable membrane, using electrodes placed on opposing sides of the membrane immersed in fluid. It was found that by suspending a nanofiber scaffold across a Transwell aperture, it is possible to integrate a fully functional nanofiber tissue scaffold with the ECIS Transwell apparatus. Salivary epithelial cells were grown on the nanofiber scaffolds and tight junction formation was evaluated using ECIS measurements in parallel with immunostaining and confocal imaging. The trans-epithelial resistance increased coordinate with cell coverage, culminating with a cell monolayer, at which point the tight junction proteins assemble and strengthen, reaching the peak signal. These studies demonstrate that ECIS can be used to evaluate tight junction formation in cells grown on nanofiber scaffolds and on effects of scaffold conditions on cells, thus providing useful biological feedback to inform superior scaffold designs.

Comparison of transepithelial resistance measurement techniques: Chopsticks vs. Endohm

BackgroundTER measurements across confluent cellular monolayers provide a useful indication of TJ strength between epithelial and endothelial cells in culture. Having a reliable and accurate method of measuring cell-to-cell adhesion is critical to studies in pathophysiology and cancer metastasis. However, the use of different technical approaches to measure TER has reportedly yielded inconsistent measurements within the same cell lines.MethodsIn the current study, we compared the peak TER values for the MDCK (canine kidney) and MCF-7 (human breast cancer) epithelial cell lines using two common approaches (Chopstick and Endohm) and two types of polymer inserts (PC and PET).ResultsBoth cell lines demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the peak TERs obtained using the two different approaches. Further, the MDCK (but not the MCF-7) cells demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the peak TERs when using the same approach but different inserts.ConclusionOur study indicates the importance of using a single approach when seeking to measure and compare the TER values of cultured cell lines.

MicroRNA-320a Strengthens Intestinal Barrier Function and Follows the Course of Experimental Colitis.

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic-remittent disorder with the risk of disabling complications due to uncontrolled inflammation. Accurate biomarkers are needed to noninvasively monitor the disease course to tailor therapy. We evaluated the potential of the specific microRNA (miR)-320a to monitor disease activity in experimental colitis or patients with Crohn's disease and investigated its functional role in intestinal epithelial barrier formation. The impact of miR-320a on intestinal barrier function was tested in vitro in T84 epithelial cells by transepithelial resistance measurement and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis on inflammatory and microbial stimulation. Experimental colitis was studied in dextran sodium sulfate colitis, T-cell transfer colitis, and IL-10 mice. Disease course was monitored by body weight measurement, colonoscopy, and histological examination. MiR-320a expression during inflammation was assessed in T84 cells, murine blood, and colonic tissue and in peripheral blood from patients with Crohn's disease with active or quiescent disease. MiR-320a transfection of T84 cells reinforced barrier integrity reflected by increased transepithelial resistance (P < 0.01) and inhibited barrier-destructive enteropathogenic Escherichia coli effects resulting in increased tight junction protein JAM-A expression (P = 0.02) and decrease of barrier integrity-destabilizing miR-320a target PPP2R5B (P < 0.001). Tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β stimulation increased a miR-320a epxression in T84 cells. MiR-320a level was increased in blood samples from colitic mice and patients with Crohn's disease showing a strong correlation with disease activity (r = 0.67). MiR-320a strengthens intestinal barrier function in vitro and has the potential to monitor disease activity of colitic mice. Future studies are needed to further evaluate the potential of miR-320a in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Alcohol Consumption Increases Claudin‐18 Turnover in Alveolar Epithelial Cells

Alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) tight junctions are crucial for maintaining barrier function between fluid filled tissues and the airspace in the lung. Failure of alveolar tight junctions leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a frequently lethal condition characterized by airspace flooding in the lung. Chronic alcohol abuse is a great risk factor for ARDS. Alcohol consumption impairs alveolar barrier function by modulation of tight junction proteins, called claudins. Claudins are a family of tetraspan transmembrane proteins that confer specific barrier properties to epithelial cell monolayers by regulating tight junction permeability. We used a rodent model of chronic alcohol ingestion to investigate the effects of alcohol on claudins and barrier function. Primary AECs from alcohol and control fed rats were cultured on Transwell permeable supports and allowed to differentiate into model type I cells. Transepithelial resistance measurements (TER) and dye flux assays were used to determine barrier function in cultured AECs. Tight junction morphology was assessed by immunofluorescence. In response to alcohol, alveolar tight junctions showed altered claudin composition leading to an increase in paracellular leak and formation of projections perpendicular to tight junctions (“spikes”) when immunostained for claudin‐18. Quantification of cells containing tight junction spikes revealed that alcohol increases the portion of cells containing tight junction spikes, which correlated with decreased barrier function. Live cell imaging of AECs expressing YFP‐tagged claudin‐18 confirmed that vesicles containing tagged claudin‐18 fused with and pinched off of tight junction spikes. Therefore, we hypothesized that these tight junction spikes are sites of enhanced protein turnover which might then result in decreased barrier function. As endocytosis is an important regulator of claudin turnover, we examined the effect of treating cells with the inhibitor Dynasore that targets dynamin, a protein which has a role in the scission of endocytic vesicles. Treatment of AECs with Dynasore resulted in a significant decrease in the number of cells containing claudin‐18 spikes and also caused a concomitant decrease in paracellular flux of a 10 kDa marker, Texas Red dextran. Our data support a role for tight junction spikes in regulating paracellular permeability and suggest that dynamin or dynamin‐related proteins may be useful therapeutic targets to stabilize alveolar barrier function and impair the development of ARDS.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by Emory Alcohol and Lung Biology Center/National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant P50‐AA013757 (MK), R01‐HL116958 (MK), T32‐AA‐013528 (SAM), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) (BS), R25‐GM099644 (SDW), and Emory+Children's Center of Excellence for Cystic Fibrosis Research (MK).

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Stimulates Expression of Blood-Testis-Barrier Proteins Claudin-3 and -5 and Tight Junction Formation via a Gnα11-Coupled Receptor in Sertoli Cells.

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a circulating sulfated steroid considered to be a pro-androgen in mammalian physiology. Here we show that at a physiological concentration (1 μM), DHEAS induces the phosphorylation of the kinase Erk1/2 and of the transcription factors CREB and ATF-1 in the murine Sertoli cell line TM4. This signaling cascade stimulates the expression of the tight junction (TJ) proteins claudin-3 and claudin-5. As a consequence of the increased expression, tight junction connections between neighboring Sertoli cells are augmented, as demonstrated by measurements of transepithelial resistance. Phosphorylation of Erk1/2, CREB, or ATF-1 is not affected by the presence of the steroid sulfatase inhibitor STX64. Erk1/2 phosphorylation was not observed when dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was used instead of DHEAS. Abrogation of androgen receptor (AR) expression by siRNA did not affect DHEAS-stimulated Erk1/2 phosphorylation, nor did it change DHEAS-induced stimulation of claudin-3 and claudin-5 expression. All of the above indicate that desulfation and conversion of DHEAS into a different steroid hormone is not required to trigger the DHEAS-induced signaling cascade. All activating effects of DHEAS, however, are abolished when the expression of the G-protein Gnα11 is suppressed by siRNA, including claudin-3 and -5 expression and TJ formation between neighboring Sertoli cells as indicated by reduced transepithelial resistance. Taken together, these results are consistent with the effects of DHEAS being mediated through a membrane-bound G-protein-coupled receptor interacting with Gnα11 in a signaling pathway that resembles the non-classical signaling pathways of steroid hormones. Considering the fact that DHEAS is produced in reproductive organs, these findings also suggest that DHEAS, by acting as an autonomous steroid hormone and influencing the formation and dynamics of the TJ at the blood-testis barrier, might play a crucial role for the regulation and maintenance of male fertility.

Colonization of human epithelial cell lines by Corynebacterium ulcerans from human and animal sources.

Corynebacterium ulcerans is an emerging pathogen transmitted by a zoonotic pathway to humans. Despite rising numbers of infections and potentially fatal outcomes, data on the colonization of the human host are lacking up to now. In this study, adhesion of two C. ulcerans isolates to human epithelial cells, invasion of host cells and the function of two putative virulence factors with respect to these processes were investigated. C. ulcerans strains BR-AD22 and 809 were able to adhere to Detroit562 and HeLa cells, and invade these epithelial cell lines with a rate comparable to other pathogens as shown by scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and replication assays. Infection led to detrimental effects on the cells as deduced from measurements of transepithelial resistance. Mutant strains of putative virulence factors phospholipase D and DIP0733 homologue CULC22_00609 generated in this study showed no influence on colonization under the experimental conditions tested. The data presented here indicate a high infectious potential of this emerging pathogen.

Infection with Rhinovirus Facilitates Allergen Penetration Across a Respiratory Epithelial Cell Layer

Background: Rhinovirus infections are a major risk factor for asthma exacerbations. We sought to investigate in an in vitro system whether infection with human rhinovirus reduces the integrity and barrier function of a respiratory epithelial cell layer and thus may influence allergen penetration. Methods: We cultured the human bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE14o- in a transwell culture system as a surrogate of respiratory epithelium. The cell monolayer was infected with human rhinovirus 14 at 2 different doses. The extent and effects of transepithelial allergen penetration were assessed using transepithelial resistance measurements and a panel of ¹²⁵I-labeled purified recombinant respiratory allergens (rBet v 1, rBet v 2, and rPhl p 5). Results: Infection of respiratory cell monolayers with human rhinovirus decreased transepithelial resistance and induced a pronounced increase in allergen penetration. Conclusions: Our results indicate that infection with rhinovirus damages the respiratory epithelial barrier and allows allergens to penetrate more efficiently into the subepithelial tissues where they may cause increased allergic inflammation.

Monocyte and M1 Macrophage-induced Barrier Defect Contributes to Chronic Intestinal Inflammation in IBD.

Macrophages are key players in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). This study aimed to determine site-specific effects of defined macrophage subtypes on the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. Macrophage subtypes in situ in intestinal specimens of patients with IBD were visualized by immunohistochemistry. In vitro polarization of human peripheral CD14 cells yielded M1 or M2 macrophages. The influence of primary monocytes or macrophage subtypes on epithelial barrier integrity was analyzed by transepithelial resistance measurements, Western blot analysis, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and cytometric bead array in a coculture model of primary human macrophages and layers of intestinal epithelial cell lines. The lamina propria of the inflamed intestine in patients with IBD, predominantly in Crohn's disease, is massively infiltrated by CD68 cells also positive for inducible nitric oxide synthase and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α. The presence of M1 macrophage shifted the balance in the local macrophage compartment towards a proinflammatory state. In the coculture model, monocytes and M1 macrophages reduced transepithelial resistance as a marker for epithelial barrier integrity. The mechanisms for paracellular leakage included intracellular relocalization of tight junction proteins like claudin-2 and epithelial cell apoptosis. Determined by specific cytokine blockade, M1 macrophages exerted their deleterious effect mainly through TNF-α, whereas monocyte-mediated damage was driven by the inflammasome effector cytokines, interleukin-1β and interleukin-18. Lamina propria monocytes and M1 macrophages invading intestinal tissues directly contribute to disrupting the epithelial barrier through deregulation of tight junction proteins and induction of epithelial cell apoptosis, thus driving intestinal inflammation in IBD.