Signalling by cGMP-dependent protein kinases

Ketamine reduces nitric oxide biosynthesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by down-regulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and intracellular calcium levels*

OBJECTIVE

Ketamine, an intravenous anesthetic agent, can modulate vascular tone. Nitric oxide (NO), constitutively produced in endothelial cells, contributes to vasoregulation. In this study, we attempted to evaluate the effects of ketamine on NO biosynthesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and its possible mechanism.

DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study

SETTINGS

Research laboratory in a universal hospital.

SUBJECTS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells prepared from human umbilical cord veins were exposed to 1, 10, 100, and 1000 microM ketamine for 1, 6, and 24 hrs.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Exposure to 1, 10, and 100 microM ketamine for 1, 6, and 24 hrs was not cytotoxic to human umbilical vein endothelial cells. However, ketamine at 1000 microM significantly caused cell apoptosis. A therapeutic concentration of ketamine (100 microM) time-dependently reduced the levels of nitrite in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Immunoblot analysis revealed that ketamine time-dependently decreased endothelial NO synthase protein production in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Results of an assay by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that ketamine significantly inhibited levels of endothelial NO synthase messenger RNA. Ketamine time-dependently reduced bradykinin-enhanced intracellular calcium concentrations. Analysis by confocal microscopy further demonstrated the suppressive effects of ketamine on bradykinin-induced calcium mobilization.

CONCLUSIONS

A clinically relevant concentration of ketamine can reduce NO biosynthesis. The suppressive mechanisms occur not only by pretranslational inhibition of eNOS expression but also by a posttranslational decrease in endothelial NO synthase activity due to a reduction in intracellular calcium levels.

cGMP-dependent phosphorylation and degradation of myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate

In the mammalian brain, nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in neuronal signal transmissions. NO stimulates guanylate cyclase to increase intracellular cGMP, which in turn activates cGMP-dependent protein kinases (PKG), but the targets of PKG in the brain have not fully been understood. In this study, we examined cGMP-dependent phosphorylation of proteins in rat brain and found that one of the possible substrates was myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS), an actin-binding membrane-associated protein that regulates cell adhesion. In addition, possible degradation products of MARCKS were observed after transfection of PKG or stimulation with 8pCPT-cGMP. Western blot analysis showed that the MARCKS protein levels were decreased when the cells were stimulated with 8pCPT-cGMP. These results suggest that MARCKS is a target of PKG, and PKG-dependent phosphorylation of MARCKS results in its degradation to reduce its protein levels in the cells.

The dg2 (for) gene confers a renal phenotype in Drosophila by modulation of cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase

Fluid transport in Drosophila melanogaster tubules is regulated by guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) signalling. Here we compare the functional effects on tubules of different alleles of the dg2 (foraging or for) gene encoding a cGMP-dependent protein kinase (cGK), and show that the fors allele confers an epithelial phenotype. This manifests itself as hypersensitivity of epithelial fluid transport to the nitridergic neuropeptide, capa-1, which acts through nitric oxide and cGMP. However, there was no significant difference in tubule cGK activity between fors and forR adults. Nonetheless, fors tubules contained higher levels of cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase (cG-PDE) activity compared to forR. This increase in cGMP-PDE activity sufficed to decrease cGMP content in fors tubules compared to forR. Challenge of tubules with capa-1 increases cGMP content in both fors and forR tubules, although the increase from resting cGMP levels is greater in fors tubules. Capa-1 stimulation of tubules reveals a potent inhibition of cG-PDE in both lines, although this is greater in fors; and is sufficient to explain the hypersensitive transport phenotype observed. Thus, polymorphisms at the dg2 locus do indeed confer a cGMP-dependent transport phenotype, but this can best be ascribed to an indirect modulation of cG-PDE activity, and thence cGMP homeostasis, rather than a direct effect on cGK levels.

Insulin activates vascular endothelial growth factor in vascular smooth muscle cells: influence of nitric oxide and of insulin resistance

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate whether insulin influences vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) synthesis and secretion in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) via nitric oxide (NO) and whether these putative effects are lost in insulin-resistant states.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In VSMC derived from human arterioles and from aortas of insulin-sensitive Zucker fa/+rats and insulin-resistant Zucker fa/fa rats incubated with different concentrations of human regular insulin with or without inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3-K), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and guanosine 3',5'cyclic monophosphate(cGMP)-dependent protein kinase (PKG), we measured protein expression (Western blot) and secretion (ELISA) of VEGF.

RESULTS

We found that in VSMCs from humans and from insulin-sensitive Zucker fa/+rats, insulin increases VEGF protein expression and secretion, with mechanisms blunted by wortmannin and LY294002 (PI3-K inhibitors), PD98059 (MAPK inhibitor), L-NMMA (NOS inhibitor) and Rp-8pCT-cGMPs (PKG inhibitor). Also the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and the cGMP analogue 8-Bromo-cGMP increase VEGF protein expression and secretion, with mechanisms inhibited by wortmannin and PD98059. The insulin effects on VEGF are impaired in VSMCs from Zucker fa/fa rats, which also present a reduced insulin ability to increase NO.

CONCLUSIONS

In VSMCs from humans and insulin-sensitive Zucker fa/+rats: (i) insulin increases VEGF protein expression and secretion via both PI3-K and MAPK; (ii) the insulin effects on VEGF are mediated by nitric oxide. The insulin action on both nitric oxide and VEGF is impaired in VSMCs from Zucker fa/fa rats, an animal model of metabolic and vascular insulin-resistance.

Regulation of the nitric oxide system in human adipose tissue

Nitric oxide (NO) is involved in adipose tissue biology by influencing adipogenesis, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, and lipolysis. The enzymes responsible for NO formation in adipose cells are endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS), whereas neuronal NO synthase (bNOS) is not expressed in adipocytes. We characterized the expression pattern and the influence of adipogenesis, obesity, and weight loss on genes belonging to the NO system in human subcutaneous adipose cells by combining in vivo and in vitro studies. Expression of most of the genes known to belong to the NO system (eNOS, iNOS, subunits of the soluble guanylate cyclase, and both genes encoding cGMP-dependent protein kinases) in human adipose tissue and isolated human adipocytes was detected. In vitro adipogenic differentiation increased the expression level of iNOS significantly, whereas eNOS expression levels were not influenced. The genes encoding eNOS, iNOS, and cGMP-dependent protein kinase 1 were expressed at higher levels in obese women. Expression of these genes, however, was not influenced by 5% weight loss. Insulin and angiotensin II (Ang II) increased NO production by human preadipocytes in vitro. Increased eNOS and iNOS expression in adipocytes and local effects of insulin and Ang II may increase adipose tissue production of NO in obesity.

Protein kinase A dependent signalling mediates anti-apoptotic effects of the atrial natriuretic peptide in ischemic livers

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Preconditioning of livers with atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) attenuates ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) via the particulate guanylate cyclase. Recently, we have shown that ANP affects the p38 MAPK signalling cascade in the liver. Thus, aim of the present study was to elucidate the role of cGMP- and p38 MAPK-dependent signalling pathways in ANP-mediated anti-apoptotic effects.

METHODS

Rat livers were perfused with KH-buffer with or without ANP, 8-Br-cGMP (+/-kinase inhibitors) and kept in UW solution (4 degrees C, 24h). Caspase-3-like activity was measured by a fluorometric assay. Expression of cGMP-dependent protein kinases (PKG) in liver tissue was determined by RT-PCR, BAD phosphorylation by Western blot, and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A, PKA) activity by in vitro phosphorylation.

RESULTS

Compared to control organs, ANP-preconditioning reduced post-ischemic caspase-3-like activity. Neither perfusion with a p38 MAPK inhibitor nor with a PKG inhibitor abolished the ANP-mediated anti-apoptotic action. The two PKG isoforms were demonstrated not to be expressed in the liver. In contrast, liver perfusion with a selective PKA inhibitor abrogated the anti-apoptotic effect of ANP. Phosphorylation of pro-apoptotic BAD by ANP-activated PKA might inhibit liver cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

ANP mediates its anti-apoptotic action during ischemic injury via a crosstalk with the PKA pathway.

Hepatic cytoprotection by nitric oxide and the cGMP pathway after ischaemia-reperfusion in the rat

Many studies in diverse models suggest that nitric oxide (NO) may be protective against liver injury due to ischaemia-reperfusion (IR). We evaluated, in an experimental in vivo model of rat liver partial ischaemia, the effects of pretreatment by an NO donor (spermineNONOate, 5mg/kg), and exogenous cGMP (8Br-cGMP, 16 mg/kg) or an endogenous cGMP producer (ANP, 10 microg/kg), to assess their beneficial effects. After 6h of reperfusion, 8Br-cGMP completely prevented the adverse effect of Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (10mg/kg) and 8Br-cGMP alone showed a protective action on both hepatocytes (AST, -25%, LDH, -55%) and endothelial cells (plasma hyaluronic acid (HA), -30%). ANP caused a marked decrease in AST and LDH activities only after 1h of reperfusion (AST, -30%, LDH, -40%). Pretreatment with spermineNONOate prevented hepatocyte injury after 1 and 6h of reperfusion (AST, -22%, LDH, -27%). However, neither spermineNONOate nor ANP had any protective effect on endothelial cell damage. These results confirm the beneficial effect of an NO donor and strongly suggest the implication of a cGMP pathway that does not involve a blockade of inflammatory cytokines production (IL-6 generation was unaffected by 8Br-cGMP pre-treatment). In our model, 8Br-cGMP showed a greater protective effect than ANP or spermineNONOate and so might be used to prevent hepatic injury after IR. Finally, we propose a schematic representation of the different routes for the actions of NO in protecting the liver against IR damage.

Effect of cGMP on lung microvascular endothelial barrier dysfunction following hydrogen peroxide

The authors determined the effect of cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) on hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2))-induced barrier dysfunction in bovine lung microvascular endothelial cell (BLMVEC) monolayers and compared the results to bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAECs). In BLMVECs, H(2)O(2) (250 microM) caused a 31.9% +/- 4.8% decrease in transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) associated with increased actin stress fiber formation, intercellular gaps, and intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)). The cGMP analogue 8-(p-chlorophenylthio)-cGMP (8p-CPT-cGMP; 30 or 50 microM) prevented the H(2)O(2)-induced decrease in TER (p <.001) as well as the cytoskeletal rearrangement and intercellular gap formation. 8-pCPT-cGMP (50 microM) attenuated the peak (418.8 +/- 42.1 versus 665.2 +/- 38.0 nmol/L; p <.001) and eliminated the sustained increase in [Ca(2+)](i) (193.5 +/- 21.3 versus 418.8 +/- 42.1 nmol/L; p <.001) caused by H(2)O(2). 8-pCPT-cGMP also increased TER (14.2% +/- 2.2%; p <.05) and decreased [Ca(2+)](i) (201.2 +/- 12.5 vs. 214.4 +/- 12.1 nmol/L; p <.03) before H(2)O(2). In BPAECs, 8p-CPT-cGMP significantly attenuated H(2)O(2)-induced increases in permeability and [Ca(2+)](i) but less effectively than in BLMVECs. These results suggest that in BLMVECs, cGMP countered the adverse effects of H(2)O(2) on barrier function by preventing actin cytoskeletal rearrangement and attenuating the increase in [Ca(2+)](i).

Autocrine and paracrine actions of natriuretic peptides in the heart

The natriuretic peptides, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), are a family of polypeptide mediators exerting numerous actions in cardiovascular homeostasis. ANP and BNP are cardiac derived, being secreted and up-regulated in myocardium in response to many pathophysiological stimuli. CNP is an endothelium-derived mediator. The classical endocrine effects of ANP and BNP on fluid homeostasis and blood pressure, especially in conditions characterised by left ventricular dysfunction, are well recognised and extensively researched. However, there is accumulating evidence that, in addition to endocrine actions, ANP and BNP exhibit important autocrine and paracrine functions within the heart and coronary circulation. These include regulation of myocyte growth, inhibition of fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition, a cytoprotective anti-ischaemic (preconditioning-like) function, and influences on coronary endothelium and vascular smooth muscle proliferation and contractility. Most if not all of these actions can be ascribed to particulate guanylyl cyclase activation because the ANP/BNP receptor, natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR)-A, has an intracellular guanylyl cyclase domain. Subsequent elevation of the intracellular second messenger cGMP may exert diverse physiological effects through activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinases (cGK), predominantly cGK-I. However, there appear to be other contributory mechanisms in several of these actions, including the augmentation of nitric oxide synthesis. These diverse actions may represent counterregulatory mechanisms in the pathophysiology of many cardiovascular diseases, not just those typified by left ventricular dysfunction. Ultimately, insights from the autocrine/paracrine actions of natriuretic peptides may provide routes to therapeutic application in cardiac diseases of natriuretic peptides and drugs that modify their availability.

Attenuated outward potassium currents in carotid body glomus cells of heart failure rabbit: involvement of nitric oxide

It has been shown that peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity is enhanced in both clinical and experimental heart failure (HF) and that impairment of nitric oxide (NO) production contributes to this enhancement. In order to understand the cellular mechanisms associated with the alterations of chemoreceptor function and the actions of NO in the carotid body (CB), we compared the outward K+ currents (IK) of glomus cells in sham rabbits with that in HF rabbits and monitored the effects of NO on these currents. Ik was measured in glomus cells using conventional and perforated whole-cell configurations. IK was attenuated in glomus cells of HF rabbits, and their resting membrane potentials (-34.7 +/- 1.0 mV) were depolarized as compared with those in sham rabbits (-47.2 +/- 1.9 mV). The selective Ca(2+)-dependent K+ channel (KCa) blocker iberiotoxin (IbTx, 100 nm) reduced IK in glomus cells from sham rabbits, but had no effect on IK from HF rabbits. In perforated whole-cell mode, the NO donor SNAP (100 microm) increased IK in glomus cells from HF rabbits to a greater extent than that in sham rabbits (P < 0.01), and IbTx inhibited the effects of SNAP. However, in conventional whole-cell mode, SNAP had no effect. N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA, NO synthase inhibitor) decreased Ik in sham rabbits but not in HF rabbits. The guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazole[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) inhibited the effect of SNAP on Ik. These results demonstrate that IK is reduced in CB glomus cells from HF rabbits. This effect is due mainly to the suppression of KCa channel activity caused by decreased availability of NO. In addition, intracellular cGMP is necessary for the KCa channel modulation by NO.

Activation of alpha2 adrenergic receptors suppresses fear conditioning: expression of c-Fos and phosphorylated CREB in mouse amygdala

alpha(2) adrenergic agonists such as dexmedetomidine generally suppress noradrenergic transmission and have sedative, analgesic, and antihypertensive properties. Considering the importance of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in forming memories for fearful events, we have investigated the acute and chronic effects of dexmedetomidine on discrete cue and contextual fear conditioning in mice. When administered before training, dexmedetomidine (10-20 microg/kg, i.p.) selectively suppressed discrete cue fear conditioning without affecting contextual memory. This behavioral change was associated with a decrease in memory retrieval-induced expression of c-Fos and P-CREB in the lateral, basolateral, and central nuclei of the amygdala. Dexmedetomidine's action on discrete cue memory did not occur in alpha(2A) adrenoceptor knockout (KO) mice. When dexmedetomidine was administered after training, it suppressed contextual memory, an effect that did not occur in alpha(2A) adrenoceptor KO mice. We conclude that dexmedetomidine, acting at alpha(2A) adrenoceptors, must be present during the encoding process to decrease discrete cue fear memory; however, its ability to suppress contextual memory is likely the result of blocking the consolidation process. The ability of alpha(2) agonists to suppress fear memory may be a valuable property clinically in order to suppress the formation of memories during stressful situations.

C-type natriuretic peptide induces human colonic myofibroblast relaxation

Intestinal response to injury requires coordinated regulation of the tension exerted by subepithelial myofibroblasts (SEM). However, the signals governing relaxation of intestinal SEM have not been investigated. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that signal transduction pathways initiated by C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) induce intestinal SEM relaxation. We directly quantified the effects of CNP on isometric tension exerted by cultured human colonic SEM. We also measured the effects of CNP on cGMP content, myosin regulatory light chain (MLC) phosphorylation, and cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. CNP induced relaxation of SEM within 10 s. By 10 min, relaxation reached a plateau that was sustained for 2 h. CNP-induced relaxation was saturable, with a maximal decrease in tension (51.7 +/- 3.8 dyn) observed at 250 nM. SEM relaxation in response to CNP constituted approximately 23% of total basal tension. CNP increased intracellular cGMP content and reduced MLC phosphorylation. Effects of CNP on cGMP and MLC exhibited the same dose dependence as CNP-induced relaxation. MLC phosphorylation decreased within 2 min of CNP exposure and was sustained for at least 45 min. CNP also stimulated a large transient increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration that occurred within 30 s and was nearly complete by 1 min. We also observed that calyculin-A, a potent inhibitor of MLC phosphatase, completely abolished the reduction in MLC phosphorylation induced by CNP. These results suggest that CNP induces intestinal SEM relaxation through cGMP-associated reductions in MLC phosphorylation. Moreover, these findings raise the possibility that CNP plays a role in intestinal wound healing.

Ectopic expression of bovine type 5 phosphodiesterase confers a renal phenotype in Drosophila

cGMP signaling regulates epithelial fluid transport by Drosophila Malpighian (renal) tubules. In order to directly evaluate the importance of cGMP-degrading phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in epithelial transport, bovine PDE5 (a bona fide cGMP-PDE), was ectopically expressed in vivo. Transgenic UAS-PDE5 Drosophila were generated, and PDE5 expression was driven in specified tubule cells in vivo by cell-specific GAL4 drivers. Targeted expression was verified by PCR and Western blotting. Immunolocalization of PDE5 in tubule confirmed specificity of expression and demonstrated localization to the apical plasma membrane. GAL4/UAS-PDE5 tubules exhibit increased cG-PDE activity and reduced basal cGMP levels compared with control lines. We show that wild-type and control tubules are sensitive to the PDE5-specific inhibitor sildenafil and that GAL4/UAS-PDE5 tubules display enhanced sensitivity to sildenafil, compared with controls. cGMP content in GAL4/UAS-PDE5 tubules is restored to control levels by treatment with sildenafil. Thus bovine PDE5 retains cGMP-degrading activity and inhibitor sensitivity when expressed in Drosophila. Expression of PDE5 in tubule principal cells results in an epithelial phenotype, reducing rates of basal and cGMP-/Cardioaccelatory peptide(2b)(CAP(2b))-stimulated fluid transport. Furthermore, inhibition of PDE5 activity by sildenafil restores basal and cGMP-stimulated fluid transport rates to control levels. However, corticotrophin releasing factor-like-stimulated transport, which is activated by cAMP signaling, was unaffected, confirming that only cGMP-stimulated signaling events in tubule are compromised by overexpression of PDE5. Successful ectopic expression of a vertebrate cG-PDE in Drosophila has shown that cG-PDE has a critical role in tubule function in vivo and that cG-PDE function is conserved across evolution. The transgene also provides a generic tool for the analysis of cGMP signaling in Drosophila.

Alternative splicing of cGMP-dependent protein kinase I in angiotensin-hypertension: novel mechanism for nitrate tolerance in vascular smooth muscle

Nitrate tolerance (NT) in hypertension is attributed to reduced activity of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC). We examined NT in basilar artery vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from control rats, rats infused with angiotensin II (Ang; 240 microg/kg per hour for 4 days), which were normotensive, and Ang-hypertensive rats (AHR; 240 microg/kg per hour for 28 days). Ca2+-activated K+ (Maxi-K) channels in VSMCs from AHR showed reduced activation by NO donor, consistent with NT. The concentration-response relationship for 8-Br-cGMP was shifted 2.5-fold to the right, indicating that abnormal sGC alone could not account for NT. Inside-out patches from AHR showed normal activation with exogenous cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (cGKI), suggesting no abnormality downstream of cGKI. We hypothesized that the reduction in apparent affinity of 8-Br-cGMP for cGKI in AHR might be due to a change in relative amounts of cGKIalpha versus cGKIbeta, since cGKIbeta is less sensitive to cGMP activators than cGKIalpha. This was substantiated by showing the following in AHR: (1) reduced effect of the cGKIalpha-selective activator 8-APT-cGMP; (2) reduced total cGKI protein (both isoforms), but an increase in cGKIbeta protein in quantitative immunofluorescence and Western blots; (3) similar changes in cGKI isoforms immunoisolated with Maxi-K channels; and (4) a large increase in cGKIbeta mRNA and a decrease in cGKIalpha mRNA in real-time PCR and Northern blots. Upregulation of cytosolic cGKIbeta was evident 4 days after Ang infusion, before development of hypertension. Our data identify a functional role for cGKIbeta in VSMCs previously ascribed exclusively to cGKIalpha. Ang-induced alternative splicing of cGKI represents a novel mechanism for reducing sensitivity to NO/cGMP.

The role of cGMP in the regulation of rabbit airway ciliary beat frequency

The involvement of cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) and their interaction with the Ca2+-dependent mechanisms in the regulation of ciliary activity are not well understood. To investigate how cGMP regulates ciliary activity, changes in ciliary beat frequency (CBF) and intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) of rabbit tracheal ciliated cells in response to 8-bromo-cGMP (Br-cGMP) were simultaneously quantified using digital, high-speed phase-contrast and fluorescence imaging. Br-cGMP induced a response in ciliary activity that could be separated into two parts. Firstly, Br-cGMP induced a concentration-dependent increase in the basal CBF that occurred without increasing the [Ca2+]i. This response was not affected by excessively buffering the [Ca2+]i with BAPTA but was abolished by KT5823, a PKG inhibitor. Secondly, Br-cGMP induced a series of transient increases in CBF that were superimposed on the sustained increases in CBF. These transient increases in CBF correlated with the stimulation of a series of transient increases in [Ca2+]i and were abolished by BAPTA, but were unaffected by KT5823. The magnitude of the transient increases in CBF and [Ca2+]i were not dependent on the concentration of Br-cGMP. The Ca2+-dependent changes in CBF induced by ionomycin or ATP were not affected by KT5823. From these results, we propose that cGMP increases CBF in two ways: firstly through a Ca2+-independent mechanism involving PKG, and secondly through a Ca2+-dependent mechanism following the stimulation of changes in [Ca2+]i. In addition, we suggest that the Ca2+-dependent stimulation of rabbit airway ciliary activity does not initially require PKG activation.

Mammalian osmolytes and S-nitrosoglutathione promote Delta F508 cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein maturation and function

In cystic fibrosis, the absence of functional CFTR results in thick mucous secretions in the lung and intestines, as well as pancreatic deficiency. Although expressed at high levels in the kidney, mutations in CFTR result in little or no apparent kidney dysfunction. In an effort to understand this phenomenon, we analyzed Delta F508 CFTR maturation and function in kidney cells under conditions that are common to the kidney, namely osmotic stress. Kidney cells were grown in culture and adapted to 250 mM NaCl and 250 mM urea. High performance liquid chromatography analysis of lysates from kidney cells adapted to these conditions identified an increase in the cellular osmolytes glycerophosphorylcholine, myo-inositol, sorbitol, and taurine. In contrast to isoosmotic conditions, hyperosmotic stress led to the proper folding and processing of Delta F508 CFTR. Furthermore, three of the cellular osmolytes, when added individually to cells, proved effective in promoting the proper folding and processing of the Delta F508 CFTR protein in both epithelial and fibroblast cells. Whole-cell patch clamping of osmolyte-treated cells showed that Delta F508 CFTR had trafficked to the plasma membrane and was activated by forskolin. Encouraged by these findings, we looked at other features common to the kidney that may impact Delta F508 maturation and function. Interestingly, a small molecule, S-nitrosoglutathione, which is a substrate for gamma glutamyltranspeptidase, an abundant enzyme in the kidney, likewise promoted Delta F508 CFTR maturation and function. S-Nitrosoglutathione-corrected Delta F508 CFTR exhibited a shorter half-life as compared with wild type CFTR. These results demonstrate the feasibility of a small molecule approach as a therapeutic treatment in promoting Delta F508 CFTR maturation and function and suggest that an additional treatment may be required to stabilize Delta F508 CFTR protein once present at the plasma membrane. Finally, our observations may help to explain why Delta F508 homozygous patients do not present with kidney dysfunction.

Effects of cytochrome P450 inhibitors on agonist-induced Ca2+ responses and production of NO and PGI2 in vascular endothelial cells

Production of endothelium-dependent vascular relaxing factors, such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin I2 (PGI2), and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF), is regulated in part by changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Cytochrome P450 (CYP), shown to mediate endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization via epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, is one of the candidates for EDHF. In this study we tested the hypotheses that CYP might be involved in EC Ca2+ signaling and that CYP activity might be linked with production of vasodilating factors other than EDHF. To this end, structurally different CYP inhibitors including SKF 525A, econazole and miconazole were tested on primary cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator fura-2/AM. Bradykinin (BK, 10 nM) and thapsigargin (TG 1 microM) provoked large biphasic increases in [Ca2+], which consist of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and transplasmalemmal Ca2+ entry. SKF 525A dose-dependently (30-100 microM) inhibited BK- and TG-stimulated Ca2+ entry, but not intracellular Ca2+ store release. Econazole (10 microM) and miconazole (10 microM) had the same effect as SKF 525A on the Ca2+ entry. SKF 525A also dose-dependently inhibited BK-stimulated production of NO and PGI2, assessed by measuring cGMP and 6-keto-PGF(1alpha) concentration. These data suggest that, in addition to its regulation of EDHF production, CYP also contributes to the regulation of other endothelium-dependent vasorelaxing factors by modifying EC Ca2+ signaling.

Synergism between calcium and cyclic GMP in cyclic AMP response element-dependent transcriptional regulation requires cooperation between CREB and C/EBP-beta

Calcium induces transcriptional activation of the fos promoter by activation of the cyclic AMP response element (CRE)-binding protein (CREB), and in some cells its effect is enhanced synergistically by cyclic GMP (cGMP) through an unknown mechanism. We observed calcium-cGMP synergism in neuronal and osteogenic cells which express type II cGMP-dependent protein kinase (G-kinase); the effect on the fos promoter was mediated by the CRE and proportional to G-kinase activity. Dominant negative transcription factors showed involvement of CREB- and C/EBP-related proteins but not of AP-1. Expression of C/EBP-beta but not C/EBP-alpha or -delta enhanced the effects of calcium and cGMP on a CRE-dependent reporter gene. The transactivation potential of full-length CREB fused to the DNA-binding domain of Gal4 was increased synergistically by calcium and cGMP, and overexpression of C/EBP-beta enhanced the effect, while a dominant negative C/EBP inhibited it. With a mammalian two-hybrid system, coimmunoprecipitation experiments, and in vitro binding studies, we demonstrated that C/EBP-beta and CREB interacted directly; this interaction involved the C terminus of C/EBP-beta but occurred independently of CREB's leucine zipper domain. CREB Ser(133) phosphorylation was stimulated by calcium but not by cGMP; in cGMP-treated cells, (32)PO(4) incorporation into C/EBP-beta was decreased and C/EBP-beta/CRE complexes were increased, suggesting regulation of C/EBP-beta functions by G-kinase-dependent dephosphorylation. C/EBP-beta and CREB associated with the fos promoter in intact cells, and the amount of promoter-associated C/EBP-beta was increased by calcium and cGMP. We conclude that calcium and cGMP transcriptional synergism requires cooperation of CREB and C/EBP-beta, with calcium and cGMP modulating the phosphorylation states of CREB and C/EBP-beta, respectively.

Neotrofin increases heme oxygenase-1 selectively in neurons

There is evidence that heme oxygenase plays a role in cellular defense against reactive oxygen species and thereby has neuroprotective effects. We examined the interaction of Neotrofin, a cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective drug, with the heme oxygenase system. In adult rats, both a single administration or seven daily injections of Neotrofin at 10, 30 or 100 mg/kg intraperitoneally increased HO-1 immunoreactivity in neurons of the hippocampal formation and its connections including CA1-4, fornix, septal nuclei, hippocampal commissure, septohippocampal nucleus, fimbria, anteroventral thalamic nucleus, frontal and parietal cortex. Prominent HO-1 staining of neuronal cells in the proximity of blood vessels and circumventricular organs was also observed. Increasing doses of Neotrofin resulted in an increase in the number of neuronal populations expressing HO-1 with 100 mg/kg evoking a widespread neuronal cell response in brain. Quantification by ELISA confirmed that intraperitoneal administration of 100 mg/kg Neotrofin caused a significant increase in HO-1 protein expression in the hippocampus. The increase was evident by 6 h post-injection, peaked at 24 h with a 4-fold increase, and persisted for at least 48 h. Similarly, oral administration of 100 mg/kg Neotrofin produced a 5-fold increase in HO-1 protein 24 h post-administration. The effect of Neotrofin on HO-1 appears to be at the transcriptional level, as suggested by an increase in HO-1 mRNA levels. Neotrofin treatment was also associated with a significant increase in HO-2 mRNA levels in whole brain homogenate. These data may explain the neuroprotective effects of Neotrofin in models of excitotoxic neuronal injury.

Nitric Oxide Signalling with a Special Focus on Lipid-Derived Mediators

The ways in which cells communicate among each other concerns all aspects of biology, from developmental processes to diseases. Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the most remarkable and unusual regulatory molecules. It is a labile free radical gas that is not stored but generated on demand, and has been implicated in an extraordinarily diverse range of physiological and pathophysiological functions. The modulation of cell signalling by free radicals is an emerging area of research that provides insight into the orchestration of cell adaptation to a changing microenvironment. In a multicellular organism this serves to coordinate complex physiological responses, such as inflammation. Cell signalling is also accompanied by rapid remodelling of membrane lipids by activated lipases. The discovery that NO, which does not reversibly interact with membrane receptors like conventional hormones and growth factors, targets enzymes such as phospholipase A2, sphingomyelinases or ceramidases, has stimulated growing interest in the crosstalk between redox and lipid signalling.

A mouse model of argininosuccinic aciduria: biochemical characterization

Argininosuccinate lyase (AL) has several roles in intermediary metabolism. It is an essential component of the urea cycle, providing a pathway for the disposal of excess nitrogen in mammals. AL links the urea cycle to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle by generating fumarate. Finally, AL is required for the endogenous production of arginine. In this latter role it may function outside ureagenic organs to provide arginine as a substrate for nitric oxide synthases (NOS). Increasing evidence suggests that argininosuccinate synthetase (AS) and AL are more globally expressed, and the coordinate regulation of AS and AL gene expression with that of the inducible form of NOS (iNOS) provides evidence that this may facilitate the regulation of NOS activity. Deficiency of AL leads to the human urea cycle disorder argininosuccinic aciduria. We produced an AL deficient mouse by gene targeting in order to investigate the role of AL in endogenous arginine production. This mouse also provides a model of the human disorder to explore the pathogenesis of the disorder and possible new treatments. Metabolic studies of these mice demonstrated that they have the same biochemical phenotype as humans, with hyperammonemia, elevated plasma argininosuccinic acid and low plasma arginine. Plasma nitrites, derived from NO, were not reduced in AL deficient mice and there was no significant difference is the level of cyclic GMP, the second messenger induced by NO.

Functional interplay between angiotensin II and nitric oxide: cyclic GMP as a key mediator

Angiotensin II (Ang II) and nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathways mutually regulate each other by multiple mechanisms. Ang II regulates the expression of NO synthase and NO production, whereas NO downregulates the Ang II type I (AT1) receptor. In addition, downstream effectors of Ang II and NO signaling pathways also interact with each other. A feedback mechanism between Ang II and NO is critical for normal vascular structure and function. Imbalance of Ang II and NO has been implicated in the pathophysiology of many vascular diseases. In this review, we focus on the diverse ways in which Ang II and NO interact and the importance of the balance between the signaling pathways activated by these mediators.

cGMP-dependent protein kinase inhibits serum-response element-dependent transcription by inhibiting rho activation and functions

RhoA, in its active GTP-bound form, stimulates transcription through activation of the serum-response factor (SRF). We found that cGMP inhibited serum-induced Rho.GTP loading and transcriptional activation of SRF-dependent reporter genes in smooth muscle and glial cells in a cGMP-dependent protein kinase (G-kinase)-dependent fashion. Serum stimulation of the SRF target gene vinculin was also blocked by cGMP/G-kinase. G-kinase activation inhibited SRF-dependent transcription induced by upstream RhoA activators including Galpha(13) and p115RhoGEF, with Galpha(13)-induced Rho.GTP loading inhibited by G-kinase. G-kinase had no effect on the high activation levels of RhoA(63L) or the double mutant RhoA(63L,188A) but inhibited transcriptional activation by these two RhoA mutants to a similar extent, suggesting an effect downstream of RhoA and independent of RhoA Ser(188) phosphorylation. Constitutively active forms of the Rho effectors Rho kinase (ROK), PKN, and PRK-2 induced SRF-dependent transcription in a cell type-specific fashion with ROK being the most efficient; G-kinase inhibited transcription induced by all three effectors without affecting ROK catalytic activity. G-kinase had no effect on RhoA(63L)-induced morphological changes in glial cells, suggesting distinct transcriptional and cytoskeletal effectors of RhoA. We conclude that G-kinase inhibits SRF-dependent transcription by interfering with RhoA signaling; G-kinase acts both upstream of RhoA, inhibiting serum- or Galpha(13)-induced Rho activation, and downstream of RhoA, inhibiting steps distal to the Rho targets ROK, PKN, and PRK-2.

Up-regulation of Na+-dependent Mg2+ transport by nitric oxide and cyclic GMP pathway in renal epithelial cells

A putative, Na(+)-dependent Mg(2+) transport pathway controls the intracellular free Mg(2+) concentration ([Mg(2+)](i)) in various mammalian cells. The characteristics of this Mg(2+) transport pathway have not been clarified. Herein, we examined the regulatory mechanism of Na(+)-dependent Mg(2+) efflux in renal epithelial NRK-52E cells. Mg(2+) removal from the extracellular bathing solution induced an Na(+)-dependent [Mg(2+)](i) decrease in Mg(2+) (5 mM)-loaded cells but not in control cells. Amiloride inhibited the [Mg(2+)](i) decrease in a dose-dependent manner (IC(50) = 3 microM). Similarly, atomic absorption spectrophotometry showed that Mg(2+) removal decreased intracellular Mg(2+) content, while it increased Na(+) content. Calphostin C (1 microM), a protein kinase C inhibitor, and genistein, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (10 microM), blocked the [Mg(2+)](i) decrease. The [Mg(2+)](i) decrease was accompanied by an increase in intracellular nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic GMP contents. (E)-4-methyl-2-[(E)-hydoxyimino]-5-nitro-6-methoxy-3-hexenamide (0.1 mM), an NO donor, and 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (0.1 mM), a membrane-permeable cyclic GMP analogue, accelerated the [Mg(2+)](i) decrease. In contrast, N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA, 0.1 mM), an NO competitive inhibitor, and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxaline-1-one (ODQ, 10 microM), an NO-sensitive guanylate cyclase inhibitor, significantly blocked the [Mg(2+)](i) decrease. These results indicate that a decrease in extracellular Mg(2+) concentration induces the production of NO and cyclic GMP, which leads to the up-regulation of Na(+)-dependent Mg(2+) efflux.

Regulation of NHE3 by nitric oxide in Caco-2 cells

The effect of nitric oxide (NO) on Na+/H+ exchange (NHE) activity was investigated utilizing Caco-2 cells as an experimental model. Incubation of Caco-2 cells with 10(-3) M S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), a conventional donor of NO, for 20 min resulted in a approximately 45% dose-dependent decrease in NHE activity, as determined by assay of ethylisopropylamiloride-sensitive 22Na uptake. A similar decrease in NHE activity was observed utilizing another NO-specific donor, sodium nitroprusside. SNAP-mediated inhibition of NHE activity was not secondary to a loss of cell viability. NHE3 activity was significantly reduced by SNAP (P < 0.05), whereas NHE2 activity was essentially unaltered. The effects of SNAP were mediated by the cGMP-dependent signal transduction pathway as follows: 1) LY-83583 and 1H-(1,2,4)oxadiazolo(4,3-a)quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), specific inhibitors of soluble guanylate cyclase, blocked the inhibitory effect of SNAP on NHE; 2) 8-bromo-cGMP mimicked the effects of SNAP on NHE activity; 3) the SNAP-induced decrease in NHE activity was counteracted by a specific protein kinase G inhibitor, KT-5823 (1 microM); 4) chelerythrine chloride (2 microM) or calphostin C (200 nM), specific protein kinase C inhibitors, did not affect inhibition of NHE activity by SNAP; 5) there was no cross activation by the protein kinase A-dependent pathway, as the inhibitory effects of SNAP were not blocked by Rp-cAMPS (25 microM), a specific protein kinase A inhibitor. These data provide novel evidence that NO inhibits NHE3 activity via activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, resulting in an increase in intracellular cGMP levels and activation of protein kinase G.

Endothelin-1 and -3 diminish neuronal NE release through an NO mechanism in rat anterior hypothalamus

The existence of endothelin binding sites on the catecholaminergic neurons of the hypothalamus suggests that endothelins (ETs) participate in the regulation of noradrenergic transmission modulating various hypothalamic-controlled processes such as blood pressure, cardiovascular activity, etc. The effects of ET-1 and ET-3 on the neuronal release of norepinephrine (NE) as well as the receptors and intracellular pathway involved were studied in the rat anterior hypothalamus. ET-1 (10 nM) and ET-3 (10 nM) diminished neuronal NE release and the effect blocked by the selective ET type B receptor antagonist BQ-788 (100 nM). N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (10 microM), methylene blue (10 microM), and KT5823 (2 microM), inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase activity, guanylate cyclase, and protein kinase G, respectively, prevented the inhibitory effects of both ETs on neuronal NE release. In addition, both ETs increased nitric oxide synthase activity. Furthermore, 100 microM picrotoxin, a GABA(A)-receptor antagonist, inhibited ET-1 and ET-3 response. Our results show that ET-1 as well as ET-3 has an inhibitory neuromodulatory effect on NE release in the anterior hypothalamus mediated by the ET type B receptor and the involvement of a nitric oxide-dependent pathway and GABA(A) receptors. ET-1 and ET-3 may thus diminish available NE in the synaptic gap leading to decreased noradrenergic activity.

The nitric oxide releasing agent sodium nitroprusside modulates cocaine-induced immediate early gene expression in rat brain

The nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP pathway triggers key events in synaptic phenomena involved in learning and memory. Using in situ hybridization, the present report demonstrates that NO released by sodium nitroprusside regulates egr-1, c-fos, and junB immediate early gene expression in rat forebrain. These genes, which are rapidly and transiently induced in response to diverse extracellular stimulation, coordinate alterations in gene expression underlying neuronal plasticity. Intracerebroventricular injection of sodium nitroprusside induced immediate early gene expression, which was highest in the nucleus accumbens. On the other hand, sodium nitroprusside abolished the cocaine-induced early gene expression in the dopaminergic projection fields nucleus accumbens, caudate-putamen, and frontal cortex. Further studies are warranted to explore the potential of the NO/cGMP/cGMP-dependent protein kinase pathway to modify cocaine-related behavioral effects.

Nitric oxide augments voltage-gated P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels constituting a putative positive feedback loop

P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels, which are postulated to play major roles in synaptic transmission, are regulated in a variety of ways. Ca(2+) currents through P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels (Ca(v)2.1/beta(1a)/alpha(2)delta) heterologously expressed in mammalian cells were recorded using the whole-cell patch clamp method. The oxidant H(2)O(2) increased the current amplitude and the effect was reversed by the reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT). The stimulatory effect of H(2)O(2) on the Ca(2+) current was mimicked by the NO donors, SNAP, and diethylamine NONOate, and reversed by the reducing agent DTT. The presence of a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor did not abolish the ability of SNAP to increase the Ca(2+) current. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of nitric oxide synthase in combination with application of the Ca(2+) ionophore A23187 also increased the Ca(2+) current amplitude and the effect was again reversed by DTT. The NOS inhibitor L-NAME abolished the stimulatory effect of A23187, and A23187 did not change the Ca(2+) currents in the cells treated with control adenovirus particles. The time course of the decline of the Ca(2+) current, but not of the Ba(2+) current, in response to repeated depolarization was markedly slowed by adenovirus-mediated overexpression of nitric oxide synthase. The results demonstrate that nitric oxide enhances the channel activity by promoting oxidation and suggest that Ca(2+), nitric oxide synthase, and nitric oxide could constitute a positive feedback loop for regulation of voltage-gated P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels.

The TRP family of cation channels: probing and advancing the concepts on receptor-activated calcium entry

Stimulation of membrane receptors linked to a phospholipase C and the subsequent production of the second messengers diacylglycerol and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) is a signaling pathway of fundamental importance in eukaryotic cells. Signaling downstream of these initial steps involves mobilization of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and Ca(2+) influx through the plasma membrane. For this influx, several contrasting mechanisms may be responsible but particular relevance is attributed to the induction of Ca(2+) influx as consequence of depletion of intracellular calcium stores. This phenomenon (frequently named store-operated calcium entry, SOCE), in turn, may be brought about by various signals, including soluble cytosolic factors, interaction of proteins of the endoplasmic reticulum with ion channels in the plasma membrane, and a secretion-like coupling involving translocation of channels to the plasma membrane. Experimental approaches to analyze these mechanisms have been considerably advanced by the discovery of mammalian homologs of the Drosophila cation channel transient receptor potential (TRP). Some members of the TRP family can be expressed to Ca(2+)-permeable channels that enable SOCE; other members form channels activated independently of stores. TRP proteins may be an essential part of endogenous Ca(2+) entry channels but so far expression of most TRP cDNAs has not resulted in restitution of channels found in any mammalian cells, suggesting the requirement for further unknown subunits. A major exception is CaT1, a TRP channel demonstrated to provide Ca(2+)-selective, store-operated currents identical to those characterized in several cell types. Ongoing and future research on TRP channels will be crucial to understand the molecular basis of receptor-mediated Ca(2+) entry, with respect to the structure of the entry channels as well as to the mechanisms of its activation and regulation.

DAF-7/TGF-beta expression required for the normal larval development in C. elegans is controlled by a presumed guanylyl cyclase DAF-11

In C. elegans development, unfavorable growth conditions lead a larva to an arrested and enduring form called a dauer. To elucidate components upstream of DAF-7/TGF-beta in this control pathway, we isolated a mutant that was defective in daf-7 promoter::gfp reporter expression and showed an arrested (dauer-constitutive) phenotype. It has a new mutation in the daf-11 gene encoding a transmembrane guanylyl cyclase. We show that daf-11 gene and a related gene daf-21 act upstream of daf-7, and cilium-related genes che-2 and che-3 are placed between daf-11 and daf-7, in the genetic pathway controlling dauer formation. Expression of daf-11 cDNA by cell specific promoters suggests that daf-11 acts cell autonomously in ASI chemosensory neurons for daf-7 expression.

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) regulates cocaine-induced dopamine increase and immediate early gene expression in rat brain

The neuropeptide C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is the primary biologically active natriuretic peptide in brain. Using in situ hybridization, the present report demonstrates that CNP regulates egr-1, c-fos and junB immediate early gene expression in rat brain. In the frontal cortex, CNP induced immediate early gene expression whereas it inhibited dose-dependently the cocaine-induced early gene expression in the dopaminergic projection fields nucleus accumbens and caudate-putamen. CNP may produce its effect directly on dopaminergic neurons because we found that its receptor, guanylyl cyclase GC-B, was expressed in the mesencephalon where dopaminergic neurons originate, as well as in their projection fields. The inhibition by CNP of the early gene expression elicited by cocaine in the caudate-putamen is correlated with a CNP-evoked decrease in cocaine-induced rise in extracellular dopamine, measured by in vivo microdialysis experiments. The significance of the inhibition of cocaine-induced dopamine release and early gene induction by the endogenous peptide CNP is demonstrated by data indicating that CNP reduced the cocaine-induced spontaneous locomotor activation. By inhibiting dopaminergic neuronal activity, CNP represents a potential negative regulator of related behavioural effects of cocaine.

Short-term "preconditioning" with inhaled nitric oxide protects rabbit lungs against ischemia-reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary edema, owing to an impairment of microvascular barrier function, is an important feature in lung ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. Inhalation of nitric oxide (NO) during the period of reperfusion has previously been shown to reduce this leakage response.

METHODS

We investigated the impact of short-term (30 min) low-dose (10 ppm) pre-ischemic NO inhalation on IR injury in buffer-perfused rabbit lungs, subsequently undergoing 210 min of warm, anoxic-ventilated ischemia.

RESULTS

Far-reaching suppression of the leakage response, reflected by manifold increased capillary filtration coefficients and edema formation, was noted in lungs with pre-ischemic NO administration, corresponding to the beneficial effect of NO inhalation during reperfusion. The effect of NO pre-exposure was not related to vasodilation, because microvascular pressures were unchanged, and was mimicked by pre-ischemic intravascular administration of sodium nitroprusside with subsequent washout of this agent. NO inhalation during reperfusion, but not pre-ischemic, short-term NO administration, provoked a manifold increase in the accumulation of guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) in the perfusate. The cGMP-analogue, 8-Br-cGMP, mimicked the anti-edematous effect of NO when present during reperfusion, but pre-ischemic, short-term administration of 8-Br-cGMP provided only limited protection. The guanylate cyclase-inhibitor, 1H-[1, 2, 4]-Oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]-quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), largely antagonized the beneficial effects of NO inhalation during reperfusion but had only minor influence on the effect of NO pre-exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

"Preconditioning" of the lung vasculature with short-term NO administration maintains endothelial integrity in a subsequent ischemia/reperfusion maneuver, with nonvasodilatory and non-cGMP-related mechanisms suggested to be largely responsible. This finding may offer interesting perspectives for donor management in clinical lung transplantation.

Cyclic nucleotides in platelets of genetically hypertriglyceridemic and hypertensive rats. Thrombin and nitric oxide responses are unrelated to plasma triglyceride levels

Prague hereditary hypertriglyceridemic (HTG) rats constitute a genetic model of hypertension associated with hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance. Various cell alterations, including changes in membrane dynamics, ion transport, and decreased platelet responses to thrombin have been observed in this strain. As hypertriglyceridemia appears to be associated with reduced endothelium-dependent vasodilation and platelet aggregation, we examined whether triglycerides could modulate cell responsiveness through changes in cyclic nucleotides in platelets of HTG rats. From the age of 6 weeks, these hypertensive animals were subjected for 10 weeks to interventions that modified circulating triglycerides levels (2.17+/-0.09 mmol/l), leading to their reduction (gemfibrozil treatment, 0.87+/-0.05 mmol/l) or elevation (high fructose intake, 3.23+/-0.07 mmol/l). Basal cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) contents were 15% and 48% lower in isolated platelets of HTG rats than in those of Lewis controls. cAMP level was further reduced in HTG rats subjected to high fructose intake. Irrespective of their plasma triglyceride levels, the thrombin-induced increase in platelet cGMP levels present in Lewis rats was absent in platelets of HTG rats. In contrast, no strain- or treatment-related differences were observed in the magnitude or kinetics of cGMP response to exogenous nitric oxide (NO). NO-induced cGMP and cAMP changes were associated in an opposite manner with trimethylamino-diphenylhexatriene (TMA-DPH) anisotropy, a biophysical parameter that reflects the microviscosity of the outer part of the cell membrane. Our results indicate that the attenuation of platelet responsiveness to thrombin in HTG rats represents a strain difference that cannot merely be due to a difference in plasma triglyceride levels. Platelet hyporesponsiveness to agonists such as thrombin in HTG rats cannot be explained by a change in levels of inhibitory cyclic nucleotides, since they were actually found to be low and not high.

Protein kinase G activates the JNK1 pathway via phosphorylation of MEKK1

We recently obtained evidence that treatment of human colon cancer cells with exisulind (sulindac sulfone) and related compounds induces apoptosis by activation of protein kinase G (PKG) and c-Jun kinase (JNK1). The present study further explores this mechanism. We demonstrate that in NIH3T3 cells a constitutively active mutant of PKG causes a dose-dependent activation of JNK1 and thereby transactivates c-Jun and stimulates transcription from the AP-1 enhancer element. The activation of JNK1 and the transactivation of c-Jun by this mutant of PKG were inhibited by a dominant negative MEKK1. In vitro assays showed that a purified PKG directly phosphorylated the N-terminal domain of MEKK1. PKG also directly phosphorylated a full-length MEKK1, and this was associated with enhanced MEKK1 phosphorylation. Thus, it appears that PKG activates JNK1 through a novel PKG-MEKK1-SEK1-JNK1 pathway, by directly phosphorylating and activating MEKK1.

Functional analysis of type 1alpha cGMP-dependent protein kinase using green fluorescent fusion proteins

The cGMP-dependent protein kinases (PKGs) are ubiquitous effector enzymes that regulate a variety of physiological processes in response to nitric oxide and natriuretic agonists. We have constructed green fluorescent fusion proteins (GFP) using full-length (PKG-GFP) and truncations encoding either the regulatory domain of PKG1alpha (G1alphaR-GFP) or the catalytic domains of PKG1alpha (GFP-G1C) to examine the enzymatic properties and intracellular location. When transiently transfected into mammalian cells, these constructs were detected on Western blots at the expected sizes using anti-GFP antibodies. The GFP-G1C and the full-length PKG1alpha-GFP fusion proteins were found to have constitutive activity both in vivo and in vitro. The G1alphaR-GFP protein was found to dimerize with endogenous type 1 PKG and behaved in a dominant negative manner both in vivo and in vitro. When expressed transiently in either HEK-293 or A549 epithelial cells, the fusion proteins encoding the amino-terminal regulatory domains (PKG-GFP, G1alphaR-GFP) were present in the cytosol and were rarely observed in the nucleus. In contrast, the GFP-G1C (lacking regulatory domains) concentrated in the nucleus. Of the fusion proteins containing the regulatory region, the constitutive PKG-GFP protein was present in a more centralized location, whereas the G1alphaR-GFP protein colocalized with F-actin on stress fibers and in dynamic regions of the plasma membrane. Microscopic and immunoprecipitation studies indicated that both the G1alphaR-GFP and the PKG-GFP fusion proteins colocalized with vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP). These constructs thus represent novel tools with which to visualize inactive, and activated, PKG1alpha in vivo, and we have used them to demonstrate two functionally independent domains. In addition, we show for the first time in living cells that PKG is found in dynamic membrane regions in association with VASP.

Maturation depresses cGMP-mediated decreases in [Ca2+]i and Ca2+ sensitivity in ovine cranial arteries

Because cerebrovascular cGMP levels vary significantly during maturation, we examined the hypothesis that the ability of cGMP to relax cerebral arteries also changes during maturation. In concentration-response experiments, potassium-induced tone in basilar arteries was significantly more sensitive to a nonmetabolizable cell-permeant cGMP analogue 8-(p-chlorophenylthio)-cGMP (8-pCPT-cGMP) in term fetal [-log one-half maximal concentration (EC(50)) = 4.4 +/- 0.1 M] than in adult (-log EC(50) = 4.0 +/- 0.1 M) ovine basilar arteries. Serotonin-induced tone also revealed significantly greater sensitivity to the cGMP analogue in fetal (-log EC(50) = 4.9 +/- 0.1 M) than in adult (-log EC(50) = 4.7 +/- 0.1 M) basilars. In fura 2-loaded preparations, 8-pCPT-cGMP had no significant effect on cytosolic calcium concentrations in potassium-contracted arteries but at 6 microM significantly reduced calcium only in fetal basilars (Delta = 33 +/- 8%). Higher 8-pCPT-cGMP concentrations reduced cytosolic calcium in both fetal and adult basilars. Similarly, in both potassium- and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-contracted preparations, low concentrations of 8-pCPT-cGMP reduced myofilament calcium sensitivity only in fetal basilars (Delta = 29 +/- 6 and Delta = 42 +/- 10%, respectively), whereas higher concentrations reduced calcium sensitivity in both fetal and adult arteries. In beta-escin-permeabilized arteries, equivalent reductions in basal and agonist-enhanced myofilament calcium sensitivity were produced by much lower 8-pCPT-cGMP concentrations in fetal (172 and 61 microM, respectively) than in adult (410 and 231 microM, respectively) basilars. The mechanisms mediating cGMP-induced vasorelaxation appear similar in fetal and adult arteries, with the exception that they are much more sensitive to cGMP in fetal than adult arteries. These age-related differences in the sensitivity of cytosolic calcium concentration, basal, and agonist-enhanced myofilament calcium sensitivity to cGMP can easily explain why both potassium- and 5-HT-induced tone are more sensitive to cGMP in fetal than adult cerebral arteries.

Oxidative regulation of large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels

Reactive oxygen/nitrogen species are readily generated in vivo, playing roles in many physiological and pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, by oxidatively modifying various proteins. Previous studies indicate that large conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BK(Ca) or Slo) are subject to redox regulation. However, conflicting results exist whether oxidation increases or decreases the channel activity. We used chloramine-T, which preferentially oxidizes methionine, to examine the functional consequences of methionine oxidation in the cloned human Slo (hSlo) channel expressed in mammalian cells. In the virtual absence of Ca(2+), the oxidant shifted the steady-state macroscopic conductance to a more negative direction and slowed deactivation. The results obtained suggest that oxidation enhances specific voltage-dependent opening transitions and slows the rate-limiting closing transition. Enhancement of the hSlo activity was partially reversed by the enzyme peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase, suggesting that the upregulation is mediated by methionine oxidation. In contrast, hydrogen peroxide and cysteine-specific reagents, DTNB, MTSEA, and PCMB, decreased the channel activity. Chloramine-T was much less effective when concurrently applied with the K(+) channel blocker TEA, which is consistent with the possibility that the target methionine lies within the channel pore. Regulation of the Slo channel by methionine oxidation may represent an important link between cellular electrical excitability and metabolism.

Regulation of glucose transport in aortic smooth muscle cells by cAMP and cGMP

We have studied the ability of cGMP and cAMP to modulate platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated 2-deoxy-D-glucose (deGlc) transport in primary cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells (VMSC) from rat aorta. PDGF stimulated deGlc transport in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. 8-Bromo-cGMP and atrial natriuretic peptide(1-28) [ANP(1-28)] were found to reduce PDGF-stimulated deGlc transport without affecting basal (unstimulated) transport activity. In contrast, 8-bromo-cAMP and dibutyryl-cAMP stimulated basal deGlc transport 2-fold and were without effect on PDGF-stimulated deGlc transport. 8-Bromo-cGMP also inhibited 8-bromo-cAMP-stimulated deGlc transport. The stimulation of deGlc transport by PDGF was sensitive to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD98059, and we show that ERK1/2 was activated by PDGF. Neither 8-bromo-cGMP nor ANP(1-28) inhibited PDGF-stimulated ERK activation, suggesting that the effects of cGMP and ANP(1-28) were not mediated by inhibition of this kinase. Our data also argue against a role for cGMP-dependent protein kinase in mediating the effects of cGMP or ANP(1-28). Collectively, our data suggest that in VSMC: (i) cGMP and cAMP have opposing effects on deGlc transport; (ii) PDGF and cAMP have common elements in the pathways by which they activate deGlc transport; and (iii) a common element may be the target of the cGMP-mediated inhibition of deGlc transport.

Molecular pathways of cyclic nucleotide-induced inhibition of arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation

Cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) are second messengers involved in the intracellular signal transduction of a wide variety of extracellular stimuli. These signals regulate many biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Recently, significant progress has been achieved in the molecular basis underlying cyclic nucleotide regulation of cell proliferation. This review summarizes our knowledge of the signaling pathways regulated by cyclic nucleotides in arterial smooth muscle cells.

Site of injury-directed induction of heme oxygenase-1 and -2 in experimental spinal cord injury: differential functions in neuronal defense mechanisms?

The heme oxygenase (HO) isozymes catalyze oxidation of the heme molecule to biliverdin and carbon monoxide (CO) with the release of chelated iron. Presently, we have defined, for the first time, propensity for site of injury-directed induction of isozymes--the stress-inducible isozyme, HO-1, responds distal (below) and the glucocorticoid (GC)-inducible HO-2 responds proximal (above) to the site of injury. We have also shown that reactive iron (Fe3+) and cGMP staining spatially resemble that of HO-1; which, in turn, colocalizes in motor neurons with transcription factors: Fas-associated protein containing death domain (FADD), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and p53. Spinal cord injury (SCI) was inflicted by clip compression for 30 min, and analyses were carried out after 4 h or 16 h. When compared with spinal cord segments proximal to the site of injury, northern blot analysis showed remarkably higher levels of HO-1 mRNA distal (below) to the site of injury at both time points. In contrast, HO-2 mRNA levels were elevated proximal (above) to the site of injury and more prominently at 16 h post SCI. Immunohistochemical analyses were carried out using 2 x 5 mm segments above and below the compression site. When compared with segments above the site of injury, the intensity of HO-1 immunostaining and the number of HO-1 positive neurons in the ventral horn motor neurons were prominently increased in segments below the injury. Western blot analysis confirmed the observations. HO-2 protein was mapped to the ventral horn motor neurons, oligodendrocytes, the Clarke's nucleus neurons and the ependymal cells. When compared with segments below the site of injury, neuronal HO-2 staining intensity was increased above the site of injury, and most notably at 16 h. These observations were also confirmed by western blotting and HO activity measurements. Tissue Fe3+ and cGMP staining were increased and prominently mapped below the site of injury, where cGMP colocalized with HO-1 in the nucleus of the motor neurons. Also, a site of injury-directed pattern of induction of FADD, TRAIL, and p53 immunoreactivity, and a widespread colocalization of the oncogenes with HO-1 protein, were found within motor neurons below the level of injury. We forward the hypothesis that HO-1 and HO-2 have different roles in the defense mechanisms of the injured nervous system. We hypothesize that HO-1 protects against further damage by contributing to controlled cell death through their intrinsic suicide program, while HO-2 is involved in suppression of inflammatory response by NO derived radicals.

Effect of time and vascular pressure on permeability and cyclic nucleotides in ischemic lungs

We previously found that increased intravascular pressure decreased ischemic lung injury by a nitric oxide (NO)-dependent mechanism (Becker PM, Buchanan W, and Sylvester JT. J Appl Physiol 84: 803-808, 1998). To determine the role of cyclic nucleotides in this response, we measured the reflection coefficient for albumin (sigma(alb)), fluid flux (), cGMP, and cAMP in ferret lungs subjected to either 45 min ("short"; n = 7) or 180 min ("long") of ventilated ischemia. Long ischemic lungs had "low" (1-2 mmHg, n = 8) or "high" (7-8 mmHg, n = 6) vascular pressure. Other long low lungs were treated with the NO donor (Z)-1-[N-(3-ammoniopropyl)-N-(n-propyl)amino]diazen-1-ium -1, 2-diolate (PAPA-NONOate; 5 x 10(-4) M, n = 6) or 8-bromo-cGMP (5 x 10(-4) M, n = 6). Compared with short ischemia, long low ischemia decreased sigma(alb) (0.23 +/- 0.04 vs. 0.73 +/- 0.08; P < 0.05) and increased (1.93 +/- 0.26 vs. 0.58 +/- 0.22 ml. min(-1). 100 g(-1); P < 0.05). High pressure prevented these changes. Lung cGMP decreased by 66% in long compared with short ischemia. Lung cAMP did not change. PAPA-NONOate and 8-bromo-cGMP increased lung cGMP, but only 8-bromo-cGMP decreased permeability. These results suggest that ischemic vascular injury was, in part, mediated by a decrease in cGMP. Increased vascular pressure prevented injury by a cGMP-independent mechanism that could not be mimicked by administration of exogenous NO.

Mechanisms of sodium pump regulation

The Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, or sodium pump, is the membrane-bound enzyme that maintains the Na(+) and K(+) gradients across the plasma membrane of animal cells. Because of its importance in many basic and specialized cellular functions, this enzyme must be able to adapt to changing cellular and physiological stimuli. This review presents an overview of the many mechanisms in place to regulate sodium pump activity in a tissue-specific manner. These mechanisms include regulation by substrates, membrane-associated components such as cytoskeletal elements and the gamma-subunit, and circulating endogenous inhibitors as well as a variety of hormones, including corticosteroids, peptide hormones, and catecholamines. In addition, the review considers the effects of a range of specific intracellular signaling pathways involved in the regulation of pump activity and subcellular distribution, with particular consideration given to the effects of protein kinases and phosphatases.

The PDE inhibitor zaprinast enhances NO-mediated protection against vascular leakage in reperfused lungs

Disruption of endothelial barrier properties with development of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema is a major threat in lung ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury that occurs under conditions of lung transplantation. Inhaled nitric oxide (NO) reduced vascular leakage in lung I/R models, but the efficacy of this agent may be limited. We coadministered NO and zaprinast, a cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor, to further augment the NO-cGMP axis. Isolated, buffer-perfused rabbit lungs were exposed to 4.5 h of warm ischemia. Reperfusion provoked a transient elevation in pulmonary arterial pressure and a negligible rise in microvascular pressure followed by a massive increase in the capillary filtration coefficient and severe lung edema formation. Inhalation of 10 parts/million of NO or intravascular application of 100 microM zaprinast on reperfusion both reduced pressor response and moderately attenuated vascular leakage. Combined administration of both agents induced no additional vasodilation at constant microvascular pressures, but additively protected against capillary leakage paralleled by a severalfold increase in perfusate cGMP levels. In conclusion, combining low-dose NO inhalation and phosphodiesterase inhibition may be suitable for the maintenance of graft function in lung transplantation by amplifying the beneficial effect of the NO-cGMP axis and avoiding toxic effects of high NO doses.

Molecular mechanism of cGMP-mediated smooth muscle relaxation

Contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle is a tightly regulated process involving numerous endogenous substances and their intracellular second messengers. We examine the key role of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in mediating smooth muscle relaxation. We briefly review the current art regarding cGMP generation and degradation, while focusing on the recent identification of the molecular mechanisms underlying cGMP-mediated smooth muscle relaxation. cGMP-induced SM relaxation is mediated mainly by cGMP-dependent protein kinase activation. It involves several molecular events culminating in a reduction in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration and a decrease in the sensitivity of the contractile system to Ca(2+). We propose that the cGMP-induced decrease in Ca(2+) sensitivity is a strategic way to achieve "active relaxation" of the smooth muscle. In summary, we present compelling evidence supporting a key role for cGMP as a mediator of smooth muscle relaxation in physiological and pharmacological settings.

Inhibitory effect of nitric oxide on voltage-dependent calcium currents in rat dorsal root ganglion cells

The effect of nitric oxide (NO) on calcium current (I(Ca)) and intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in primarily cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons was investigated from neonatal rats. I(Ca) and [Ca(2+)](i) were simultaneously recorded using perforated-patch technique in combination with fluorescence measurement from single DRG neurons. NO donors, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and S-nitro-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), inhibited I(Ca) in small-diameter neurons without significant change in voltage-dependence of activation and activation time constants. SNP and SNAP also reduced the transient [Ca(2+)](i) peak accompanied by I(Ca). Inhibition by NO was reproducible, but gradually desensitized. In some DRG neurons, SNP and SNAP increased basal [Ca(2+)](i) in concentration of 10 microM with little effect on NO-induced inhibition of I(Ca). 8-Br-cGMP, a permeable cGMP analog, mimicked the effects of SNP and SNAP. These results suggest that, in DRG neurons, NO has inhibitory effect on I(Ca), which is independent of NO-induced increase of basal [Ca(2+)](i), through cGMP-dependent pathway.

Cyclic GMP-dependent and -independent regulation of MAP kinases by sodium nitroprusside in isolated cardiomyocytes

Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) elicits various physiological effects, in part through generation of the membrane permeable mediator nitric oxide (NO). In the heart, besides its role in regulating contractility, NO is involved in both protection from and induction of cellular damage. The present study investigated the role of SNP in the regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in isolated adult rat cardiomyocytes. SNP maximally activated Erk1, Erk2, p38 MAPK and MAPKAPK2 in 5-10 min. The activation of MAPKAPK2 by SNP was blocked by the soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, 1H-[1, 2,4]oxadiazolol[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) and the p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580. The activation of Erk1 was insensitive to ODQ but completely blocked by the Mek1 inhibitor PD98059. The membrane-permeable homologue of cGMP, 8-Br-cGMP, also activated p38 MAPK (A(0.5) approximately 50 microM) but not Erk1 and Erk2. These results indicate that p38 MAPK and MAPKAPK2 are activated by SNP in cGMP-dependent pathways, while the Erk1 activation by SNP is independent of cGMP levels.

Nitric oxide increases p21(Waf1/Cip1) expression by a cGMP-dependent pathway that includes activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p70(S6k)

Nitric oxide (NO) regulates the expression of p21(Waf1/Cip1) in several cell types. The present study examined the role of both the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p70 S6 kinase (p70(S6k)) in the NO-induced increase in p21 expression that occurred in adventitial fibroblasts during the cell cycle. Both ERK and p70(S6k) were phosphorylated in response to the NO donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) and the activation was rapid, transient, and preceded increased p21 expresion under defined conditions where serum was present. Addition of a selective inhibitor of ERK phosphorylation (PD98059) prevented the subsequent phosphorylation of p70(S6k) and the increase in p21 protein. Both cGMP and cAMP activated both ERK and p70(S6k), whereas only selective inhibitors of protein kinase G prevented the activation of the kinases by SNAP. A complex between ERK and p70(S6k) was documented by immunoprecipitation procedures. Rapamycin blocked p70(S6k) phosphorylation induced by NO and also inhibited p53 phosphorylation and p21 expression whereas PD98059 only prevented the NO-induced increase in p21 protein without influencing either p53 activation or p21 mRNA expression. The studies show a unique relationship between NO, ERK, and p70(S6k) and also provide evidence for a novel role of p70(S6k) in the activation of p53.

Loss of expression of the beta subunit of soluble guanylyl cyclase prevents nitric oxide-mediated inhibition of DNA synthesis in smooth muscle cells of old rats

We compared the effects of NO donors and cGMP analogues on the growth of aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) derived from newborn, adult (aged 3 months), and old (aged 2 years) rats. We found that the NO donor S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine failed to block DNA synthesis in SMCs from old rats but was effective in SMCs from newborn and adult rats. However, cGMP analogues were inhibitory in all 3 SMC types. We demonstrated that in SMCs from old rats, NO was unable to increase the concentration of intracellular cGMP, suggesting that either cGMP synthesis was defective or cGMP degradation was enhanced. Western blot analysis revealed that SMCs from old rats do not express the beta subunit of soluble guanylyl cyclase. To confirm the importance of this observation in vivo, we balloon-injured the carotid arteries of adult and old rats. Whereas soluble guanylyl cyclase was expressed at the same level in the media of injured vessels and uninjured vessels of both groups, its expression in the intimas of old rats was reduced by 70% compared with intimas from adult animals. Furthermore, N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine, an inhibitor of NO synthesis, enhanced the intimal thickening in injured vessels in adult rats but not in old rats. We conclude that the loss of NO responsiveness in aged rats is due to the lack of the beta subunit of soluble guanylyl cyclase, and we speculate that this defect contributes to the enhanced intimal thickening in response to injury in old animals.