Immunocytochemical localization on O2-sensing protein (NADPH oxidase) in chemoreceptor cells

The pulmonary neuroepithelial body microenvironment represents an underestimated multimodal component in airway sensory pathways

Exciting new imaging and molecular tools, combined with state-of-the-art genetically modified mouse models, have recently boosted interest in pulmonary (vagal) sensory pathway investigations. In addition to the identification of diverse sensory neuronal subtypes, visualization of intrapulmonary projection patterns attracted renewed attention on morphologically identified sensory receptor end-organs, such as the pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) that have been our area of expertise for the past four decades. The current review aims at providing an overview of the cellular and neuronal components of the pulmonary NEB microenvironment (NEB ME) in mice, underpinning the role of these complexly organized structures in the mechano- and chemosensory potential of airways and lungs. Interestingly, the pulmonary NEB ME additionally harbors different types of stem cells, and emerging evidence suggests that the signal transduction pathways that are active in the NEB ME during lung development and repair also determine the origin of small cell lung carcinoma. Although documented for many years that NEBs appear to be affected in several pulmonary diseases, the current intriguing knowledge on the NEB ME seems to encourage researchers that are new to the field to explore the possibility that these versatile sensor-effector units may be involved in lung pathogenesis or pathobiology.

The role of local renin-angiotensin system in arterial chemoreceptors in sleep-breathing disorders

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays pivotal roles in the regulation of cardiovascular and renal functions to maintain the fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. Experimental studies have demonstrated a locally expressed RAS in the carotid body, which is functional significant in the effect of angiotensin peptides on the regulation of the activity of peripheral chemoreceptors and the chemoreflex. The physiological and pathophysiological implications of the RAS in the carotid body have been proposed upon recent studies showing a significant upregulation of the RAS expression under hypoxic conditions relevant to altitude acclimation and sleep apnea and also in animal model of heart failure. Specifically, the increased expression of angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin AT₁ receptors plays significant roles in the augmented carotid chemoreceptor activity and inflammation of the carotid body. This review aims to summarize these results with highlights on the pathophysiological function of the RAS under hypoxic conditions. It is concluded that the maladaptive changes of the RAS in the carotid body plays a pathogenic role in sleep apnea and heart failure, which could potentially be a therapeutic target for the treatment of the pathophysiological consequence of sleep apnea.

Upregulation of a local renin-angiotensin system in the rat carotid body during chronic intermittent hypoxia

The carotid body (CB) plays an important role in the alteration of cardiorespiratory activity in chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) associated with sleep-disordered breathing, which may be mediated by local expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). We hypothesized a pathogenic role for IH-induced RAS expression in the CB. The CB expression of RAS components was examined in rats exposed to IH resembling a severe sleep-apnoeic condition for 7 days. In situ hybridization showed an elevated expression of angiotensinogen in the CB glomus cells in the hypoxic group when compared with the normoxic control group. Immunohistochemical studies and Western blot analysis revealed increases in the protein level of both angiotensinogen and angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors in the hypoxic group, which were localized to the glomic clusters containing tyrosine hydroxylase. RT-PCR studies confirmed that levels of the mRNA expression of angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme, AT1a and AT2 receptors were significantly increased in the CBs of the hypoxic rats. Functionally, the [Ca(2+)]i response to exogenous angiotensin II was enhanced in fura-2-loaded glomus cells dissociated from hypoxic rats when compared with those of the normoxic control animals. Pretreatment with losartan, but not PD123319, abolished the angiotensin II-induced [Ca(2+)]i response, suggesting an involvement of AT1 receptors. Moreover, daily treatment of the IH group of rats with losartan attenuated the levels of oxidative stress, gp91(phox) expression and macrophage infiltration in the CB. Collectively, the upregulated local RAS expression could play a pathogenic role in the augmented CB activity and local inflammation via AT1 receptor activation during IH conditions in patients with sleep-disordered breathing.

NOX2 (gp91phox) is a predominant O2 sensor in a human airway chemoreceptor cell line: biochemical, molecular, and electrophysiological evidence

Pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs), composed of clusters of amine [serotonin (5-HT)] and peptide-producing cells, are widely distributed within the airway mucosa of human and animal lungs. NEBs are thought to function as airway O(2)-sensors, since they are extensively innervated and release 5-HT upon hypoxia exposure. The small cell lung carcinoma cell line (H146) provides a useful model for native NEBs, since they contain (and secrete) 5-HT and share the expression of a membrane-delimited O(2) sensor [classical NADPH oxidase (NOX2) coupled to an O(2)-sensitive K(+) channel]. In addition, both native NEBs and H146 cells express different NADPH oxidase homologs (NOX1, NOX4) and its subunits together with a variety of O(2)-sensitive voltage-dependent K(+) channel proteins (K(v)) and tandem pore acid-sensing K(+) channels (TASK). Here we used H146 cells to investigate the role and interactions of various NADPH oxidase components in O(2)-sensing using a combination of coimmunoprecipitation, Western blot analysis (quantum dot labeling), and electrophysiology (patchclamp, amperometry) methods. Coimmunoprecipitation studies demonstrated formation of molecular complexes between NOX2 and K(v)3.3 and K(v)4.3 ion channels but not with TASK1 ion channels, while NOX4 associated with TASK1 but not with K(v) channel proteins. Downregulation of mRNA for NOX2, but not for NOX4, suppressed hypoxia-sensitive outward current and significantly reduced hypoxia -induced 5-HT release. Collectively, our studies suggest that NOX2/K(v) complexes are the predominant O(2) sensor in H146 cells and, by inference, in native NEBs. Present findings favor a NEB cell-specific plasma membrane model of O(2)-sensing and suggest that unique NOX/K(+) channel combinations may serve diverse physiological functions.

Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction

It has been known for more than 60 years, and suspected for over 100, that alveolar hypoxia causes pulmonary vasoconstriction by means of mechanisms local to the lung. For the last 20 years, it has been clear that the essential sensor, transduction, and effector mechanisms responsible for hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) reside in the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell. The main focus of this review is the cellular and molecular work performed to clarify these intrinsic mechanisms and to determine how they are facilitated and inhibited by the extrinsic influences of other cells. Because the interaction of intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms is likely to shape expression of HPV in vivo, we relate results obtained in cells to HPV in more intact preparations, such as intact and isolated lungs and isolated pulmonary vessels. Finally, we evaluate evidence regarding the contribution of HPV to the physiological and pathophysiological processes involved in the transition from fetal to neonatal life, pulmonary gas exchange, high-altitude pulmonary edema, and pulmonary hypertension. Although understanding of HPV has advanced significantly, major areas of ignorance and uncertainty await resolution.

Chronic intermittent hypoxia induces local inflammation of the rat carotid body via functional upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine pathways

Maladaptive changes in the carotid body (CB) induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) account for the pathogenesis of cardiovascular morbidity in patients with sleep-disordered breathing. We postulated that the proinflammatory cytokines, namely interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and cytokine receptors (IL-1r1, gp130 and TNFr1) locally expressed in the rat CB play a pathophysiological role in IH-induced CB inflammation. Results showed increased levels of oxidative stress (serum 8-isoprostane and nitrotyrosine in the CB) in rats with 7-day IH treatment resembling recurrent apneic conditions when compared with the normoxic control. Local inflammation shown by the amount of ED1-containing cells (macrophage infiltration) and the gene transcripts of NADPH oxidase subunits (gp91(phox) and p22(phox)) and chemokines (MCP-1, CCR2, MIP-1α, MIP-1β and ICAM-1) in the CB were significantly more in the hypoxic group than in the control. In addition, the cytokines and receptors were expressed in the lobules of chemosensitive glomus cells containing tyrosine hydroxylase and the levels of expressions were significantly increased in the hypoxic group. Exogenous cytokines elevated the intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) response to acute hypoxia in the dissociated glomus cells. The effect of cytokines on the [Ca(2+)](i) response was significantly greater in the hypoxic than in the normoxic group. Moreover, daily treatment of IH rats with anti-inflammatory drugs (dexamethasone or ibuprofen) attenuated the levels of oxidative stress, gp91(phox) expression and macrophage infiltration in the CB. Collectively, these results suggest that the upregulated expression of proinflammatory cytokine pathways could mediate the local inflammation and functional alteration of the CB under chronic IH conditions.

NADPH oxidase is required for the sensory plasticity of the carotid body by chronic intermittent hypoxia

Respiratory motoneuron response to hypoxia is reflex in nature and carotid body sensory receptor constitutes the afferent limb of this reflex. Recent studies showed that repetitive exposures to hypoxia evokes long term facilitation of sensory nerve discharge (sLTF) of the carotid body in rodents exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). Although studies with anti-oxidants suggested the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated signaling in eliciting sLTF, the source of and the mechanisms associated with ROS generation have not yet been investigated. We tested the hypothesis that ROS generated by NADPH oxidase (NOX) mediate CIH-evoked sLTF. Experiments were performed on ex vivo carotid bodies from rats and mice exposed either to 10 d of CIH or normoxia. Acute repetitive hypoxia evoked a approximately 12-fold increase in NOX activity in CIH but not in control carotid bodies, and this effect was associated with upregulation of NOX2 mRNA and protein, which was primarily localized to glomus cells of the carotid body. sLTF was prevented by NOX inhibitors and was absent in mice deficient in NOX2. NOX activation by CIH required 5-HT release and activation of 5-HT(2) receptors coupled to PKC signaling. Studies with ROS scavengers revealed that H(2)O(2) generated from O(2).(-) contributes to sLTF. Priming with H(2)O(2) elicited sLTF of carotid bodies from normoxic control rats and mice, similar to that seen in CIH-treated animals. These observations reveal a novel role for NOX-induced ROS signaling in mediating sensory plasticity of the carotid body.

Mechanism of apoptosis induced by apigenin in HepG2 human hepatoma cells: involvement of reactive oxygen species generated by NADPH oxidase

Although plant-derived flavonoids have been reported to have anti-cancer activities, the exact mechanism of these actions is not completely understood. In this study we investigated the role for reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a mediator of the apoptosis induced by apigenin, a widespread flavonoid in plant, in HepG2 human hepatoma cells. Apigenin reduced cell viability, and induced apoptotic cell death in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, it evoked a dose-related elevation of intracellular ROS level. Treatment with various inhibitors of the NADPH oxidase (diphenylene iodonium, apocynin, neopterine) significantly blunted both the generation of ROS and induction of apoptosis induced by apigenin. These results suggest that ROS generated through the activation of the NADPH oxidase may play an essential role in the apoptosis induced by apigenin in HepG2 cells. These results further suggest that apigenin may be valuable for the therapeutic management of human hepatomas.

Oxygen sensors in context

The ability to adapt to changes in the availability of O2 provides a critical advantage to all O2-dependent lifeforms. In mammals it allows optimal matching of the O2 requirements of the cells to ventilation and O2 delivery, underpins vital changes to the circulation during the transition from fetal to independent, air-breathing life, and provides a means by which dysfunction can be limited or prevented in disease. Certain tissues such as the carotid body, pulmonary circulation, neuroepithelial bodies and fetal adrenomedullary chromaffin cells are specialised for O2 sensing, though most others show for example alterations in transcription of specific genes during hypoxia. A number of mechanisms are known to respond to variations in PO2 over the physiological range, and have been proposed to fulfil the function as O2 sensors; these include modulation of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and a number of O2-dependent synthetic and degradation pathways. There is however much debate as to their relative importance within and between specific tissues, whether their O2 sensitivity is actually appropriate to account for their proposed actions, and in particular their modus operandi. This review discusses our current understanding of how these mechanisms may operate, and attempts to put them into the context of the actual PO2 to which they are likely to be exposed. An important point raised is that the overall O2 sensitivity (P50) of any O2-dependent mechanism does not necessarily correlate with that of its O2 sensor, as the coupling function between the two may be complex and non-linear. In addition, although the bulk of the evidence suggests that mitochondria act as the key O2 sensor in carotid body, pulmonary artery and chromaffin cells, the signalling mechanisms by which alterations in their function are translated into a response appear to differ fundamentally, making a global unified theory of O2 sensing unlikely.

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cell system in pediatric lung disease-recent advances

The airway epithelium of human and animal lungs contains highly specialized pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNEC), distributed as solitary cells and as innervated clusters, neuroepithelial bodies (NEB). The designation "PNEC system" stems from the expression of both neural and endocrine cell phenotypes, including the synthesis and release of amine (serotonin, 5-HT) and a variety of neuropeptides (that is, bombesin). The role and function of PNEC in the lung have remained a subject of speculation for many years. During the last decade, studies using modern techniques of cellular and molecular biology revealed a complex functional role for PNEC, beginning during the early stages of lung development as modulators of fetal lung growth and differentiation and at the time of birth as airway O2 sensors involved in neonatal adaptation. Postnatally and beyond, PNEC/NEB are providers of a lung stem cell niche that is important in airway epithelial regeneration and lung carcinogenesis. The focus of this review is to present and discuss recent findings pertaining to the responses of PNEC to intrauterine environmental stimuli, ontogeny and molecular regulation of PNEC differentiation, innervation of NEB, and their role as airway chemoreceptors, including mechanisms of O2 sensing and chemotransmission of hypoxia stimulus. Abnormalities of PNEC/NEB have been reported in a variety of pediatric pulmonary disorders but the clinical significance or the mechanisms involved are unknown. The discussion on the possible role of PNEC/NEB in the pathogenesis and pathobiology of pediatric lung diseases includes congenital lung disorders, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, disorders of respiratory control, neuroendocrine hyperplasia of infancy, cystic fibrosis, bronchial asthma, and pulmonary hypertension.

NADPH oxidase-derived superoxide anion mediates angiotensin II-enhanced carotid body chemoreceptor sensitivity in heart failure rabbits

OBJECTIVE

A previous study from this laboratory showed that elevation of endogenous angiotensin II (Ang II) and upregulation of the angiotensin II type 1 (AT(1)) receptor in the carotid body (CB) are involved in the enhanced peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity in rabbits with chronic heart failure (CHF). NADPH oxidase-derived superoxide anion mediates the effects of Ang II in many organs. We investigated whether this signaling pathway may mediate the enhanced peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity induced by Ang II in CHF rabbits.

METHODS AND RESULTS

By recording single-unit activity from the carotid sinus nerve in isolated preparations, we found that phenylarsine oxide 2 muM (PAO, NADPH oxidase inhibitor) and TEMPOL 1 mM (superoxide dismutase mimetic) significantly decreased not only the Ang II-enhanced CB chemoreceptor responses to different levels of hypoxia in sham rabbits (Delta-12.5+/-0.8 and Delta-12.8+/-0.9 imp/s at 40.7+/-2.3 mm Hg of PO(2), and Delta-5.6+/-0.5 and Delta-5.3+/-0.4 imp/s at 60.2+/-3.1 mm Hg of PO(2), p<0.05, respectively) but also the CHF-induced elevation of CB chemoreceptor responses to different levels of hypoxia (Delta-13.6+/-1.1 and Delta-13.7+/-0.9 imp/s at 40.9+/-3.1 mm Hg of PO(2), and Delta-6.7+/-1.2 and Delta-6.6+/-0.8 imp/s at 59.8+/-3.5 mm Hg of PO(2), p<0.05). In addition, mRNA and protein expressions of NADPH oxidase components (gp91(phox), p40(phox) and p47(phox)) were higher in the CB from CHF rabbits compared to sham rabbits. Furthermore, 100 pM Ang II induced an increase in superoxide production in CB homogenates from sham rabbits, which was similar to that in CB homogenate from CHF rabbits. PAO and Tempol inhibited the Ang II- and CHF-enhanced superoxide anion production.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the enhanced peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity mediated by Ang II in CHF rabbits occurs via a NADPH oxidase-superoxide signaling pathway.

The role of NADPH oxidase in carotid body arterial chemoreceptors

O(2)-sensing in the carotid body occurs in neuroectoderm-derived type I glomus cells where hypoxia elicits a complex chemotransduction cascade involving membrane depolarization, Ca(2+) entry and the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Efforts to understand the exquisite O(2)-sensitivity of these cells currently focus on the coupling between local P(O2) and the open-closed state of K(+)-channels. Amongst multiple competing hypotheses is the notion that K(+)-channel activity is mediated by a phagocytic-like multisubunit enzyme, NADPH oxidase, which produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) in proportion to the prevailing P(O2). In O(2)-sensitive cells of lung neuroepithelial bodies (NEB), multiple studies confirm that ROS levels decrease in hypoxia, and that E(M) and K(+)-channel activity are indeed controlled by ROS produced by NADPH oxidase. However, recent studies in our laboratories suggest that ROS generated by a non-phagocyte isoform of the oxidase are important contributors to chemotransduction, but that their role in type I cells differs fundamentally from the mechanism utilized by NEB chemoreceptors. Data indicate that in response to hypoxia, NADPH oxidase activity is increased in type I cells, and further, that increased ROS levels generated in response to low-O(2) facilitate cell repolarization via specific subsets of K(+)-channels.

The expanding role of NADPH oxidases in health and disease: no longer just agents of death and destruction

The NADPH oxidase was originally identified as a key component of human innate host defence. In phagocytes, this enzyme complex is activated to produce superoxide anion and other secondarily derived ROS (reactive oxygen species), which promote killing of invading micro-organisms. However, it is now well-established that NADPH oxidase and related enzymes also participate in important cellular processes not directly related to host defence, including signal transduction, cell proliferation and apoptosis. These enzymes are present in essentially every organ system in the body and contribute to a multitude of physiological events. Although essential for human health, excess NADPH-oxidase-generated ROS can promote numerous pathological conditions. Herein, we summarize our current understanding of NADPH oxidases and provide an overview of how they contribute to specific human diseases.

Functional facets of the pulmonary neuroendocrine system

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) have been around for 60 years in the scientific literature, although phylogenetically they are ancient. Their traditionally ascribed functions include chemoreception and regulation of lung maturation and growth. There is recent evidence that neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation in the lung is regulated by genes and pathways that are conserved in the development of the nervous system from Drosophila to humans (such as achaete-scute homolog-1), or implicated in the carcinogenesis of the nervous or NE system (such as the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor gene). In addition, complex neural networks are in place to regulate chemosensory and other functions. Even solitary PNECs appear to be innervated. For the first time ever, we have mouse models for lung NE carcinomas, including the most common and virulent small cell lung carcinoma. Moreover, PNECs may be important for inflammatory responses, and pivotal for lung stem cell niches. These discoveries signify an exciting new era for PNECs and are likely to have therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Role of NADPH oxidase-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species in the mechanism of apoptosis induced by phenolic acids in HepG2 human hepatoma cells

Although plant-derived phenolic acids have been reported to have anti-cancer activity, the exact mechanism is not completely understood. In this study, we investigated the role for reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a mediator of the apoptosis induced by caffeic acid (CA) and ferulic acid (FA), common phenolic acids in plants, in HepG2 human hepatoma cells. CA and FA reduced cell viability, and induced apoptotic cell death in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, they evoked a dose-related elevation of intracellular ROS. Treatment with various inhibitors of NADPH oxidase (diphenylene iodonium, apocynin, neopterine) significantly blunted both the generation of ROS and the induction of apoptosis induced by CA and FA. These results suggest that ROS generated through activation of NADPH oxidase may play an essential role in the apoptosis induced by CA and FA in HepG2 cells. These results further suggest that CA and FA may be valuable for the therapeutic management of human hepatomas.

Selective visualisation of neuroepithelial bodies in vibratome slices of living lung by 4-Di-2-ASP in various animal species

Pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) are extensively innervated organoid groups of neuroendocrine cells that lie in the epithelium of intrapulmonary airways. Our present understanding of the morphology of NEBs is comprehensive, but direct physiological studies have so far been challenging because the extremely diffuse distribution of NEBs makes them inaccessible in vivo and because a reliable in vitro model is lacking. Our aim has been to optimise an in vitro method based on vibratome slices of living lungs, a model that includes NEBs, the surrounding tissues and at least part of their complex innervation. This in vitro model offers satisfactory access to pulmonary NEBs, provided that they can be differentiated from other tissue elements. The model was first optimised for living rat lung slices. Neutral red staining, reported to stain rabbit NEBs, proved unsuccessful in rat slices. On the other hand, the styryl pyridinium dye, 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridinium iodide (4-Di-2-ASP), showed brightly fluorescent cell groups, reminiscent of NEBs, in the airway epithelium of living lung slices from rat. In addition, nerve fibres innervating the NEBs were labelled. The reliable and specific labelling of pulmonary NEBs by 4-Di-2-ASP was corroborated by immunostaining for protein gene-product 9.5. Live cell imaging and propidium iodide staining further established the acceptable viability of 4-Di-2-ASP-labelled NEB cells in lung slices, even over long periods. Importantly, the in vitro model and 4-Di-2-ASP staining procedure for pulmonary NEBs appeared to be equally reproducible in mouse, hamster and rabbit lungs. Diverse immunocytochemical procedures could be applied to the lung slices providing an opportunity to combine physiological and functional morphological studies. Such an integrated approach offers additional possibilities for elucidating the function(s) of pulmonary NEBs in health and disease.

Molecular diversity and function of voltage-gated (Kv) potassium channels in epithelial cells

Voltage-gated K+ channels belonging to Kv1-9 subfamilies are widely expressed in excitable cells where they play an essential role in membrane hyperpolarization during an action potential and in the propagation of action potentials along the plasma membrane. Early patch clamp studies on epithelial cells revealed the presence of K+ currents with biophysical and pharmacologic properties characteristic of Kv channels expressed in excitable cells. More recently, molecular approaches including PCR and the availability of more selective antibodies directed against Kv alpha and auxiliary subunits, have demonstrated that epithelial cells from various organ systems, express a remarkable diversity Kv channel subunits. Unlike neurons and myocytes however, epithelial cells do not typically generate action potentials or exhibit dynamic changes in membrane potential necessary for activation of Kv alpha subunits. Moreover, the fact that many Kv channels expressed in epithelial cells exhibit inactivation suggest that their activities are relatively transient, making it difficult to ascribe a functional role for these channels in transepithelial electrolyte or nutrient transport. Other proposed functions have included (i) cell migration and wound healing, (ii) cell proliferation and cancer, (iii) apoptosis and (iv) O2 sensing. Certain Kv channels, particularly Kv1 and Kv2 subfamily members, have been shown to be involved in the proliferation of prostate, colon, lung and breast carcinomas. In some instances, a significant increase in Kv channel expression has been correlated with tumorogenesis suggesting the possibility of using these proteins as markers for transformation and perhaps reducing the rate of tumor growth by selectively inhibiting their functional activity.

Involvement of NADPH oxidase-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species in the apototic cell death by capsaicin in HepG2 human hepatoma cells

Although capsaicin (8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide), a pungent ingredient in a variety of red peppers of the genus Capsicum, has been shown to induce apoptotic cell death in many cancer cells, the exact mechanism of this action of capsaicin is not completely understood. In this study, we investigated the possible mediation of the NADPH oxidase-modulated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the apoptotic mechanism of capsaicin in HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cells. Capsaicin induced apoptotic cell death in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Capsaicin at the concentration of inducing apoptosis also markedly increased the level of ROS. The capsaicin-induced generation of ROS and apoptosis was significantly suppressed by treatment with antioxidants, DPPD and tocopherol. In addition, inhibitors of NADPH oxidase, diphenylene iodonium, apocynin and neopterine, profoundly blocked the capsaicin-induced ROS generation and apoptosis. The expression of Rac1N17, a dominant negative mutant of Rac1, also significantly inhibited the capsaicin-induced apoptosis. Activation of nuclear factor-kappaB, a transcription factor essentially involved in ROS-induced apoptosis, was also observed by treatment with capsaicin. Collectively, these results suggest that the NADPH oxidase-mediated generation of ROS may be essentially involved in the mechanism of capsaicin-induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells. These results further suggest that capsaicin may be a valuable agent for the therapeutic intervention of human hepatomas.

The diffuse endocrine system: from embryogenesis to carcinogenesis

In the present review we will summarise the current knowledge about the cells comprising the Diffuse Endocrine System (DES) in mammalian organs. We will describe the morphological, histochemical and functional traits of these cells in three major systems gastrointestinal, respiratory and prostatic. We will also focus on some aspects of their ontogeny and differentiation, as well as to their relevance in carcinogenesis, especially in neuroendocrine tumors. The first chapter describes the characteristics of DES cells and some of their specific biological and biochemical traits. The second chapter deals with DES in the gastrointestinal organs, with special reference to the new data on the differentiation mechanisms that leads to the appearance of endocrine cells from an undifferentiated stem cell. The third chapter is devoted to DES of the respiratory system and some aspects of its biological role, both, during development and adulthood. Neuroendocrine hyperplasia and neuroendocrine lung tumors are also addressed. Finally, the last chapter deals with the prostatic DES, discussing its probable functional role and its relevance in hormone-resistant prostatic carcinomas.

Dual sensory innervation of pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies

The characteristics of the different populations of sensory nerve terminals that selectively contact pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) in rat lungs were investigated after chemical denervation with capsaicin and compared with control lungs. Vagal calbindin D28k and P2X(3) purinoceptor immunoreactive (IR) afferent nerve terminals contacting NEBs appeared to have their origin in the nodose ganglion. Thick CB/P2X(3)-IR nerve fibers were seen to be myelinated and to lose their myelin sheaths just before branching and protruding intraepithelially between the NEB cells. This vagal sensory component of the innervation of NEBs was not affected by capsaicin nor expressed capsaicin receptors (vanilloid receptor subtype 1). A second sensory nerve fiber population that selectively innervates pulmonary NEBs in the rat lung consists of thin unmyelinated nonvagal substance P/calcitonin gene-related peptide IR nerve fibers, contacting mainly the basal pole of pulmonary NEBs, and having their origin in dorsal root ganglia. In concordance with vanilloid receptor 1 expression on these nerve terminals, the spinal sensory substance P/calcitionin gene-related peptide-IR component of the innervation of NEBs was depleted by systemic capsaicin treatment. The complex sensory innervation pattern of pulmonary NEBs characterized in the present study strongly suggests that, physiologically, pulmonary NEBs represent a group of intraepithelial receptors that may be able to accommodate various local and central reflex actions, in relation to both chemo- and mechanosensory stimuli.

Current Paradigms in Cellular Oxygen Sensing

Organisms, tissues and cells react to hypoxia by activating adaptive responses that tend to preserve systemic oxygen transport, cellular oxygen delivery, and the resistance of cells against the consequences of severe hypoxia. These responses are required for embryonic development and for survival through adulthood. Although much has been learned about the signaling pathways that are activated in hypoxic cells, the underlying mechanism of O2 sensing is not established. Most of the putative models of O2 sensing include the involvement of redox-dependent reactions and many implicate reactive oxygen species in the signaling process. The sources of these oxidant signals are thought to include members of the NAD(P)H oxidase system and/or mitochondria. This article reviews evidence for and against the involvement of these systems in the O2 sensing pathway.

Receptor-mediated effects of nicotine and its nitrosated derivative NNK on pulmonary neuroendocrine cells

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) have been implicated in the development of small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and pediatric asthma, and smoking is a risk factor for both diseases. We as well as others have shown that the alpha(7) nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (alpha(7) nAChR) regulates the release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) in PNECs and SCLC. Serotonin is an autocrine growth factor for PNECs and SCLC and acts as broncho-constrictor. We found that nicotine and its nitrosated carcinogenic derivative 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) bind to the alpha(7) nAChR in SCLC and PNECs, resulting in the influx of Ca(2+), release of 5-HT, and activation of a mitogenic pathway mediated by protein kinase C (PKC), Raf-1, mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c-myc. Exposure to 10% CO(2) acted synergistically. Unstimulated SCLC cells from smokers demonstrated high base levels of 5-HT release and of individual downstream signaling components in comparison to PNECs. Subchronic exposure of PNECs to NNK up-regulated the alpha(7) nAChR and its associated serotonergic mitogenic pathway in PNECs, an effect that may contribute to the development of SCLC in smokers and pediatric asthma in children of mothers who smoke.

Lactoperoxidase and hydrogen peroxide metabolism in the airway

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is known to play an important role in airway homeostasis. For this reason its levels and thus its synthesis and consumption are important mechanisms for controlling airway functions. We have identified the major macromolecular consumer of H2O2 in sheep airway secretions to be lactoperoxidase (LPO), a heme peroxidase previously studied in milk and saliva. This enzyme uses H2O2 to oxidize the anion thiocyanate to an antibiotic compound that prevents growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. LPO was isolated from sheep airways and proved to be a major constituent comprising about 1% of the soluble protein in airway secretions. The isolated airway LPO was catalytically active and displayed the enzymatic characteristics previously described for the enzyme isolated from bovine milk. Airway LPO activity was shown to increase the rate of bacterial clearance from sheep airways. The role of this enzyme in the airway host defense strongly suggests that an active H2O2 production system exists to supply appropriate substrate for the enzyme. The identity of this H2O2 synthesis system is an important, yet unknown feature of airway oxygen radical metabolism.

Cellular distribution of oxygen sensor candidates-oxidases, cytochromes, K+-channels--in the carotid body

The specific tissue of the carotid body is built up of groups of glomus cells, enveloped by glial-type sustentacular cells, and innervated by sensory nerve fibers. These units sense arterial pO(2) and respond to hypoxia by a variety of reactions that include initiation of the arterial chemoreflex, i.e., increasing firing activity in the carotid sinus nerve. Until now, neither the cellular localization of the initial events that lead to stimulation of chemoreceptor afferents nor the molecular mechanism of oxygen sensing in the carotid body have been unequivocally identified. Proposed molecular candidates for the mechanism of oxygen sensing include: 1). components of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, 2). NADPH oxidases generating reactive oxygen species in an oxygen-dependent manner, 3). oxygen-regulated plasmalemmal K(+)-channels, and 4). nonoxidase iron-proteins. Our still limited knowledge on their cellular distribution within the carotid body is reviewed here. It is evident that: 1). the distribution of at least some oxygen sensor candidates is not ubiquitous but cell-type-specific, and 2). each specific parenchymal cell type of the carotid body contains at least one of the proposed oxygen sensor candidates. This applies also for the glial-type sustentacular cells that exhibit immunoreactivity to the two-pore domain K(+)-channel, TASK-1. These observations fit best with the assumption that each cell type within the carotid body is principally responsive to hypoxia. The differential equipping of glomus cells, nerve endings, and sustentacular cells with sensor proteins might serve to determine different thresholds of sensitivity and/or to connect the process of oxygen sensing to different signaling pathways. It also favors the assumption that several mechanisms of oxygen sensing may act simultaneously. The cellular identification of the cell type initiating the chemoreceptor reflex, however, has to await the molecular identification of the particular oxygen sensor molecule that initiates increased carotid sinus nerve activity.

Role of reactive oxygen species in apoptosis induced by N-ethylmaleimide in HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cells

We have previously reported that N-ethylmaleimide induces apoptosis through activation of K(+), Cl(-)-cotransport in HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cells. In this study, we investigated the role for reactive oxygen species as a mediator of the apoptosis induced by N-ethylmaleimide. N-ethylmaleimide induced a significant elevation of intracellular level of reactive oxygen species. Treatment with antioxidants (N-acetyl cysteine, N,N'-diphenyl-p-phenylenediamine) which markedly suppressed generation of reactive oxygen species, significantly inhibited the N-ethylmaleimide-induced activation of K(+), Cl(-)-cotransport and apoptosis. Inhibitors of NADPH oxidase (diphenylene iodonium, apocynin, D-(+)-neopterine) also significantly blunted the generation of reactive oxygen species, activation of K(+), Cl(-)-cotransport and apoptosis induced by N-ethylmaleimide. These results suggest that reactive oxygen species generated through activation of NADPH oxidase may play a role in the N-ethylmaleimide-induced stimulation of K(+), Cl(-)-cotransport and apoptosis in HepG2 cells.

Expression of CFTR and Cl(-) conductances in cells of pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies

The pulmonary neuroendocrine cell system comprises solitary neuroendocrine cells and clusters of innervated cells or neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs). NEBs figure prominently during the perinatal period when they are postulated to be involved in physiological adaptation to air breathing. Previous studies have documented hyperplasia of NEBs in cystic fibrosis (CF) lungs and increased neuropeptide (bombesin) content produced by these cells, possibly secondary to chronic hypoxia related to CF lung disease. However, little is known about the role of NEBs in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease. In the present study, using a panel of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-specific antibodies and confocal microscopy in combination with RT-PCR, we demonstrate expression of CFTR message and protein in NEB cells of rabbit neonatal lungs. NEB cells expressed CFTR along with neuroendocrine markers. Confocal microscopy established apical membrane localization of the CFTR protein in NEB cells. Cl(-) conductances corresponding to functional CFTR were demonstrated in NEB cells in a fresh lung slice preparation. Our findings suggest that NEBs, and related neuroendocrine mechanisms, likely play a role in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease, including the early stages before establishment of chronic infection and chronic lung disease.

Combined antisense and pharmacological approaches implicate hTASK as an airway O(2) sensing K(+) channel

Neuroepithelial bodies act as airway oxygen sensors. The lung carcinoma line H146 is an established model for neuroepithelial body cells. Although O(2) sensing in both cells is via NADPH oxidase H(2)O(2)/free radical production and acute hypoxia promotes K(+) channel closure and cell depolarization, the identity of the K(+) channel is still controversial. However, recent data point toward the involvement of a member of the tandem P domain family of K(+) channels. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction screening indicates that all known channels other than hTWIK1 and hTRAAK are expressed in H146 cells. Our detailed pharmacological characterization of the O(2)-sensitive K(+) current described herein is compatible with the involvement of hTASK1 or hTASK3 (pH dependence, tetraethylammonium and dithiothreitol insensitivity, blockade by arachidonic acid, and halothane activation). Furthermore, we have used antisense oligodeoxynucleotides directed against hTASK1 and hTASK3 to suppress almost completely the hTASK1 protein and show that these cells no longer respond to acute hypoxia; this behavior was not mirrored in liposome-only or missense-treated cells. Finally, we have used Zn(2+) treatment as a maneuver able to discriminate between these two homologues of hTASK and show that the most likely candidate channel for O(2) sensing in these cells is hTASK3.

Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis of the expression of CD31 during lung development in the rat

The CD31 antigen, known also as the platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1, has been shown to be a good marker for monitoring the formation of the vasculature in mammals. Available evidence suggests that the expression of CD31 is regulated during embryonal and fetal development. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in the expression of CD31 during the development of the rat lung. We studied samples of lung tissue from rat fetuses (17, 19 and 21 days after conception), newborns (1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 21 days after birth) and adult animals. The tissue samples from rats in the various age groups were divided into sets, with all age groups being represented in every set. After immunohistochemical localization of the antigen, the amount of chromogen deposited after the immunoreaction (defined in terms of optical density; OD) was evaluated by image analysis in the various sets. Measurements were obtained twice from each set, and the results were reproducible (paired t test, alpha = 0.05). We subjected the results of measurements from all sets to an analysis of variance (ANOVA). The amount of chromogen (OD) decreased from fetal day 19 to 5 days after delivery and then increased again. The decrease in the level of expression of CD31 on days 3 and 5 after delivery was significant (p < 0.0001).

Respiratory control in neonatal mice with NADPH oxidase deficiency

A membrane bound cytochrome b(558) (NADPH oxidase) is a candidate for the oxygen sensor in pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) - putative airway chemoreceptors. Recent electrophysiological studies on NEB from mice with NADPH oxidase deficiency (OD; gp(91phox) knock-out) have shown lack of response of O(2) sensitive K(+) current to hypoxia challenge compared with wild-type (WT) control mice. To assess the effects of oxidase deficiency on the control of ventilation at the whole animal level, respiratory measurements were conducted under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in neonatal OD mice and compared that with the WT control group. Five-day-old OD mice were faster and shallower breathers during normoxia as well as hypoxia. In addition, the maximum hypoxic ventilatory response of the OD mice was lower than that of the WT control group and the peak increase in minute ventilation (.V(max)-.V(normoxia)) was greater in WT control than the OD mice (P=0.02). Since the lung development and NEB morphology in OD mice were comparable to the WT control mice, the observed differences implicate NADPH oxidase as an O(2) sensor involved in neonatal ventilatory control, possibly modulated via pulmonary NEBs.

Oxygen-sensing persistent sodium channels in rat hippocampus

1. Persistent sodium channel activity was recorded before and during hypoxia from cell-attached and inside-out patches obtained from cultured hippocampal neurons at a pipette potential (Vp) of +30 mV. Average mean current (IU) of these channels was very low under normoxic conditions and was similar in cell-attached and excised inside-out patches (-0.018 +/- 0.010 and -0.025 +/- 0.008 pA, respectively, n = 24). 2. Hypoxia increased the activity of persistent sodium channels in 10 cell-attached patches (IU increased from -0. 026 +/- 0.016 pA in control to -0.156 +/- 0.034 pA during hypoxia, n = 4, P = 0.013). The increased persistent sodium channel activity was most prominent at a VP between +70 and +30 mV (membrane potential, Vm = -70 to -30 mV) and could be blocked by lidocaine, TTX or R56865 (n = 5). Sodium cyanide (NaCN, 5 mM; 0.5-5 min) increased persistent sodium channel activity in cell-attached patches (n = 3) in a similar manner. 3. Hypoxia also increased sodium channel activity in inside-out patches from hippocampal neurons. Within 2-4 min of exposure to hypoxia, I had increased 9-fold to -0. 18 +/- 0.04 pA (n = 21, P = 0.001). Sodium channel activity increased further with longer exposures to hypoxia. 4. The hypoxia-induced sodium channel activity in inside-out patches could be inhibited by exposure to 10-100 microM lidocaine applied via the bath solution (I = -0.03 +/- 0.01 pA, n = 8) or by perfusion of the pipette tip with 1 microM TTX (I = -0.01 +/- 0.01 pA, n = 3). 5. The reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT, 2-5 mM) rapidly abolished the increase in sodium channel activity caused by hypoxia in excised patches (I = -0.01 +/- 0.01 pA, n = 4). Similarly, reduced glutathione (GSH, 5-20 mM) also reversed the hypoxia-induced increase in sodium channel activity (IU = -0.02 +/- 0.02 pA, n = 5). 6. These results suggest that persistent sodium channels in neurons can sense O2 levels in excised patches of plasma membrane. Hypoxia triggers an increase in sodium channel activity. The redox reaction involved in increasing the sodium channel activity probably occurs in an auxiliary regulatory protein, co-localized in the plasma membrane.

Molecular identification of O2 sensors and O2-sensitive potassium channels in the pulmonary circulation

Small, muscular pulmonary arteries (PAs) constrict within seconds of the onset of alveolar hypoxia, diverting blood flow to better-ventilated lobes, thereby matching ventilation to perfusion and optimizing systemic PO2. This hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is enhanced by endothelial derived vasoconstrictors, such as endothelin, and inhibited by endothelial derived nitric oxide. However, the essence of the response is intrinsic to PA smooth muscle cells in resistance arteries (PASMCs). HPV is initiated by inhibition of the Kv channels in PASMCs which set the membrane potential (EM). It is currently uncertain whether this reflects an initial inhibitory effect of hypoxia on the K+ channels or an initial release of intracellular Ca2+, which then inhibits K+ channels. In either scenario, the resulting depolarization activates L-type, voltage gated Ca2+ channels, which raises cytosolic calcium levels [Ca2+]i and causes vasoconstriction. Nine families of Kv channels are recognized from cloning studies (Kv1-Kv9), each with subtypes (i.e. Kv1.1-1.6). The contribution of an individual Kv channel to the whole-cell current (IK) is difficult to determine pharmacologically because Kv channel inhibitors are nonspecific. Furthermore, the PASMC's IK is an ensemble, reflecting activity of several channels. The K+ channels which set EM, and inhibition of which initiates HPV, conduct an outward current which is slowly inactivating, and which is blocked by the Kv inhibitor 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) but not by inhibitors of Ca(2+)- or ATP-sensitive K+ channels. Using anti-Kv antibodies to immunolocalize and inhibit Kv channels, we showed that the PASMC contains numerous types of Kv channels from the Kv1 and Kv2 families., Furthermore Kv1.5 and Kv2.1 may be important in determining the EM and play a role as effectors of HPV in PASMCs. While the Kv channels in PASMCs are the "effectors" of HPV, it is uncertain whether they are intrinsically O2-sensitive or are under the control of an "O2 sensor". Certain Kv channels are rich in cysteine, and respond to the local redox environment, tending to open when oxidized and close when reduced. Candidate sensors vary the PASMC redox potential in proportion to O2. These include Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Oxidase, (NADPH oxidase) and the cytosolic ratio of reduced/oxidized redox couples (i.e. glutathione GSH/GSSG), as controlled by electron flux in the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC). Using a mouse that lacks the gp91phox component of NADPH oxidase, we have recently shown that loss of the gp91phox-containing NADPH oxidase as a source of activated oxygen species does not impair HPV. However, inhibition of complex 1 of the mitochondrial electron transport chain mimics hypoxia in that it inhibits IK, reduces the production of activated O2 species and causes vasoconstriction. We hypothesize that a redox O2 sensor, perhaps in the mitochondrion, senses O2 through changes in the accumulation of freely diffusible electron donors. Changes in the ratio of reduced/oxidized redox couples, such as NADH/NAD+ and glutathione (GSH/GSSG) can reduce or oxidize the K+ channels, resulting in alterations of PA tone.

Role of NAD(P)H oxidase in the tamoxifen-induced generation of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis in HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cells

Previously, tamoxifen (TAM) has been shown to induce apoptosis through elevation of intracellular Ca2+ in HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cells. In this study we investigated the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the TAM-induced apoptosis, and interrelationship between intracellular Ca2+ and ROS. TAM induced a slow and sustained increase in intracellular ROS level. An antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine significantly inhibited both ROS production and apoptosis induced by TAM, suggesting that ROS may play an essential role in the TAM-induced apoptosis. In a time frame ROS generation followed intracellular Ca2+ increase, and the extracellular and intracellular Ca2+ chelation with EGTA and BAPTA/AM, respectively, completely inhibited the TAM-induced ROS production, indicating that intracellular Ca2+ may mediate the ROS generation. Inhibitors of NAD(P)H oxidase, diphenylene iodonium, phenylarsine oxide and neopterine, significantly blocked the TAM-induced ROS generation and apoptosis, implying that this oxidase may act as a source enzyme for the production of ROS. These results suggest that non-phagocytic NAD(P)H oxidase may play a novel role as a mediator of the apoptosis associated with intracellular Ca2+ in HepG2 cells.

NADPH oxidase: a universal oxygen sensor?

NADPH oxidase is classically regarded as a key enzyme of neutrophils, where it is involved in the pathogenic production of reactive oxygen species. However, NADPH oxidase-like enzymes have recently been identified in non-neutrophil cells, supporting a separate role for NADPH-oxidase derived oxygen species in oxygen sensitive processes. This article reviews the current literature surrounding the potential role of NADPH oxidase in the oxygen sensing processes which underlie hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction, systemic vascular smooth muscle proliferation, carotid and airways chemoreceptor activation, erythropoietin gene expression, and oxytropic responses of plant cells.

Mice lacking in gp91 phox subunit of NAD(P)H oxidase showed glomus cell [Ca(2+)](i) and respiratory responses to hypoxia

The hypothesis that NAD(P)H oxidase may serve as an oxygen sensor was tested using the mice deficient (knock-out) in gp91phox subunit of NAD(P)H oxidase enzyme complex and compared with wild-type (C57BL/6J) strain measuring the ventilatory and glomus cell intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) responses of carotid body to hypoxia. The hypoxic ventilatory responses as well as the [Ca(2+)](i) were preserved in the NAD(P)H oxidase knock-out mice. NAD(P)H oxidase, though a major source of oxygen radical production, is not the oxygen sensor in mice carotid body.

Intraepithelial vagal sensory nerve terminals in rat pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies express P2X(3) receptors

The neurotransmitters/modulators involved in the interaction between pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) and the vagal sensory component of their innervation have not yet been elucidated. Because P2X(3) purinoreceptors are known to be strongly expressed in peripheral sensory neurons, the aim of the present study was to examine the localization of nerve endings expressing P2X(3) purinoreceptors in the rat lung in general and those contacting pulmonary NEBs in particular. Most striking were intraepithelial arborizations of P2X(3) purinoceptor-immunoreactive (IR) nerve terminals, which in all cases appeared to ramify between calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)- or calbindin D28k (CB)-labeled NEB cells. However, not all NEBs received nerve endings expressing P2X(3) receptors. Using CGRP and CB staining as markers for two different sensory components of the innervation of NEBs, it was revealed that P2X(3) receptor and CB immunoreactivity were colocalized, whereas CGRP-IR fibers clearly formed a different population. The disappearance of characteristic P2X(3) receptor-positive nerve fibers in contact with NEBs after infranodosal vagal crush and colocalization of tracer and P2X(3) receptor immunoreactivity in vagal nodose neuronal cell bodies in retrograde tracing experiments further supports our hypothesis that the P2X(3) receptor-IR nerve fibers contacting NEBs have their origin in the vagal sensory nodose ganglia. Combination of quinacrine accumulation in NEBs, suggestive of the presence of high concentrations of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in their secretory vesicles, and P2X(3) receptor staining showed that the branching intraepithelial P2X(3) receptor-IR nerve terminals in rat lungs were exclusively associated with quinacrine-stained NEBs. We conclude that ATP might act as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator in the vagal sensory innervation of NEBs via a P2X(3) receptor-mediated pathway. Further studies are necessary to determine whether the P2X(3) receptor-expressing neurons, specifically innervating NEBs in the rat lung, belong to a population of P2X(3) receptor-IR nociceptive vagal nodose neurons.

Differentiation and proliferation of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells

In this review article the morphological profiles of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNEC) in experimental animals and humans are described. Although the mechanisms of differentiation and proliferation of neuroendocrine cells in the airway epithelium remain to be solved, several experimental studies using explant culture and cell culture systems of fetal animal lungs have been performed to clarify fundamental phenomena associated with neuroendocrine differentiation and proliferation. Experimental animal studies using chronic hypoxia, toxic substances and carcinogens have succeeded in inducing alterations in PNEC systems, and these studies have elucidated the reactions of PNEC in cell injury and inflammation, and functional aspects of PNEC in disease conditions. Human pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors include various histological subtypes, and show divergent morphological and biological varieties. Molecular abnormalities of small cell carcinoma, the most aggressive subtype of pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors, have been extensively studied, but the mechanism of neuroendocrine differentiation of this tumor is still largely unknown. PNEC share common phenotypes with neuronal cells, and developmental studies have begun contributed evidence that similar transcriptional networks, including active and repressive basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) factors, function in the differentiation of both PNEC and neuronal cells. Such a bHLH network may also play a central role in determining cell differentiation in lung carcinomas. Further studies of the neuronal bHLH network, its regulatory system and related signal transduction pathways, will be required for understanding the mechanisms of neuroendocrine differentiation and proliferation in normal and pathological lung conditions.

Mammalian oxygen sensing, signalling and gene regulation

Oxygen is essential to the life of all aerobic organisms. Virtually every cell type is able to sense a limited oxygen supply (hypoxia) and specifically to induce a set of oxygen-regulated genes. This review summarizes current concepts of mammalian oxygen-sensing and signal-transduction pathways. Since the discovery of the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), a great deal of progress has been made in our comprehension of how hypoxia induces the expression of oxygen-regulated genes. The alpha subunit of the heterodimeric transcription factors HIF-1, 2 and 3 is unstable under normoxia but is rapidly stabilized upon exposure to hypoxic conditions. Following heterodimerization with the constitutively expressed beta subunit, HIFs activate the transcription of an increasing number of genes involved in maintaining oxygen homeostasis at the cellular, local and systemic levels.

NADPH oxidase is an O2 sensor in airway chemoreceptors: evidence from K+ current modulation in wild-type and oxidase-deficient mice

Pulmonary neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) are presumed airway chemoreceptors that express the putative O(2) sensor protein NADPH oxidase and O(2)-sensitive K(+) channels K(+)(O(2)). Although there is a consensus that redox modulation of K(+)(O(2)) may be a common O(2)-sensing mechanism, the identity of the O(2) sensor and related coupling pathways are still controversial. To test whether NADPH oxidase is the O(2) sensor in NEB cells, we performed patch-clamp experiments on intact NEBs identified by neutral red staining in fresh lung slices from wild-type (WT) and oxidase-deficient (OD) mice. In OD mice, cytochrome b(558) and oxidase function was disrupted in the gp91(phox) subunit coding region by insertion of a neomycin phosphotransferase (neo) gene. Expression in NEB cells of neo mRNA, a marker for nonfunctional gp91(phox), was confirmed by nonisotopic in situ hybridization. In WT cells, hypoxia (pO(2) = 15-20 mmHg; 1 mmHg = 133 Pa) caused a reversible inhibition ( approximately 46%) of both Ca(2+)-independent and Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) currents. In contrast, hypoxia had no effect on K(+) current in OD cells, even though both K(+) current components were expressed. Diphenylene iodonium (1 microM), an inhibitor of the oxidase, reduced K(+) current by approximately 30% in WT cells but had no effect in OD cells. Hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2); 0.25 mM), a reactive oxygen species generated by functional NADPH oxidase, augmented K(+) current by >30% in both WT and OD cells; further, in WT cells, H(2)O(2) restored K(+) current amplitude in the presence of diphenylene iodonium. We conclude that NADPH oxidase acts as the O(2) sensor in pulmonary airway chemoreceptors.

Macrophages: a major source of cytochrome b558 in the rat carotid body

The carotid body monitors arterial oxygen tension. Spectrophotometric recording of the intact organ has revealed a cytochrome aa3 and a cytochrome b558 as potential oxygen sensor candidates. The latter is known as part of the NADPH oxidase system generating superoxide anions in the "respiratory burst" defense mechanism, and glomus cells have been found to exhibit immunoreactivity against this phagocyte cytochrome b558. Using a monoclonal antibody against the large cytochrome b558 subunit, gp91phox, and other antibodies serving as neural (PGP 9.5) and monocyte/macrophage markers (ED1, ED2), we here demonstrate at light and electron microscopical level that monocytes/macrophages are abundantly present in the rat carotid body and represent the major source of cytochrome b558 in this organ. Their presence has profound implications on the interpretation of spectrophotometric recordings aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of oxygen sensing since their high cytochrome b558 content will obscure possible contributions of cell types involved in the oxygen sensor process.

Cytochrome b558 (p22phox) in the guinea-pig adrenal medulla

Paraganglionic cells are sensitive to hypoxia, and the involvement of a plasmalemmal cytochrome b558-like protein in oxygen sensing by these cells has been suggested, but neither the identity of the immunoreactive protein detected by immunohistochemistry nor its anticipated subcellular (i.e., plasmalemmal) localization were directly proven. Thus, we extended these studies to the largest paraganglion, i.e., the adrenal medulla, in the guinea-pig, which, due to its size and accessibility, allowed us to address both of these issues utilizing antisera raised against synthetic peptides of the small (22 kD) subunit of cytochrome b558, p22phox. Cytochrome b558 was originally identified in granulocytes and macrophages, and antisera against this phagocyte p22phox were utilized. Immunoreactivity to p22phox was observed in all adrenal medullary endocrine cells, and the identity of the immunoreactive protein to the small cytochrome b558-subunit was confirmed by Western blotting. Immuno-electron microscopy of ultrathin cryosections and of resin-embedded tissue demonstrated its subcellular localization in the dense core vesicles of endocrine A-cells but not in the plasma membrane. In conclusion, the present study documents the presence of the small subunit of cytochrome b558 in guinea-pig adrenal medullary cells, but its subcellular vesicular localization does not support the initial interpretation of cytochrome b558 serving as a plasmalemmal oxygen sensor.

Chemoreceptor discharges and cytochrome redox changes of the rat carotid body: role of heme ligands

In superfused in vitro rat carotid body, we recorded chemoreceptor discharges and the redox state of cytochromes simultaneously to identify the primary oxygen-sensing protein controlling transmitter release and electrical activity of the carotid sinus nerve. These parameters were tested under the influence of heme ligands such as oxygen, cyanide, 4-(2-aminoethyl)-benzenesulfonyl fluoride, and CO. During stimulation, there was an initial increase in discharge frequency followed by a decline or suppression of activity. Photometric changes lagged and were maintained as nerve activity decreased. Reducing mitochondrial cytochromes by cyanide or prolonged severe hypoxia, suppressed the chemoreceptor discharge. 4-(2-Aminoethyl)-benzenesulfonyl fluoride, a specific inhibitor of the phagocytic cytochrome b(558), also silenced the chemoreceptors after an initial excitation. CO increased the chemoreceptor discharge under normoxia, an effect inhibited by light, when the cytochromes were not reduced. When the discharges were depressed by severe hypoxia, exposure to light excited the chemoreceptors and the cytochromes were reduced. The rapidity of the chemosensory responses to light and lack of effect on dopamine release from type I cells led us to hypothesize that carotid body type I cells and the apposed nerve endings use different mechanisms for oxygen sensing: the nerve endings generate action potentials in association with membrane heme proteins whereas cytosolic heme proteins signal the redox state, releasing modulators or transmitters from type I cells.

O2 sensing is preserved in mice lacking the gp91 phox subunit of NADPH oxidase

The rapid response to hypoxia in the pulmonary artery (PA), carotid body, and ductus arteriosus is partially mediated by O2-responsive K+ channels. K+ channels in PA smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are inhibited by hypoxia, causing membrane depolarization, increased cytosolic calcium, and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. We hypothesize that the K+ channels are not themselves "O2 sensors" but rather respond to the reduced redox state created by hypoxic inhibition of candidate O2 sensors (NADPH oxidase or the mitochondrial electron transport chain). Both pathways shuttle electrons from donors, down a redox gradient, to O2. Hypoxia inhibits these pathways, decreasing radical production and causing cytosolic accumulation of unused, reduced, freely diffusible electron donors. PASMC K+ channels are redox responsive, opening when oxidized and closing when reduced. Inhibitors of NADPH oxidase (diphenyleneiodonium) and mitochondrial complex 1 (rotenone) both inhibit PASMC whole-cell K+ current but lack the specificity to identify the O2-sensor pathway. We used mice lacking the gp91 subunit of NADPH oxidase [chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) mice] to assess the hypothesis that NADPH oxidase is a PA O2-sensor. In wild-type lungs, gp91 phox and p22 phox subunits are present (relative expression: macrophages > airways and veins > PASMCs). Deletion of gp91 phox did not alter p22 phox expression but severely inhibited activated O2 species production. Nonetheless, hypoxia caused identical inhibition of whole-cell K+ current (in PASMCs) and hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (in isolated lungs) from CGD vs. wild-type mice. Rotenone vasoconstriction was preserved in CGD mice, consistent with a role for the mitochondrial electron transport chain in O2 sensing. NADPH oxidase, though a major source of lung radical production, is not the pulmonary vascular O2 sensor in mice.

Roles of reactive oxygen species: signaling and regulation of cellular functions

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the side products (H2O2, O2.-, and OH.) of general metabolism and are also produced specifically by the NADPH oxidase system in most cell types. Cells have a very efficient antioxidant defense to counteract the toxic effect of ROS. The physiological significance of ROS is that ROS at low concentrations are able to mediate cellular functions through the same steps of intracellular signaling, which are activated by natural stimuli. Moreover, a variety of natural stimuli act through the intracellular formation of ROS that change the intracellular redox state (oxidation-reduction). Thus, the redox state is a part of intracellular signaling. As such, ROS are now considered signal molecules at nontoxic concentrations. Progress has been achieved in studying the oxidative activation of gene transcription in animal cells and bacteria. Changes in the redox state of intracellular thiols are considered to be an important mechanism that regulates cell functions.

Redox-dependent binding of CO to heme protein controls P(O2)-sensitive chemoreceptor discharge of the rat carotid body

Simultaneous recordings of chemoreceptor discharge and redox state of cytochromes have been carried out on the rat carotid body in vitro under the influence of carbon monoxide (CO) in order to identify the primary oxygen sensor protein controlling transmitter release and electrical activity. CO excites in a photolabile manner chemoreceptor discharge under normoxic conditions and inhibits under hypoxic conditions probably by binding to heme proteins. We hypothesize that type I cells and adjacent nerve endings of the carotid body tissue have a different apparatus with oxygen sensing heme proteins to cooperate for the generation of peripheral chemoreceptor response. Transmitter release from type I cells might be established in a redox dependent manner whereas membrane potential of nerve endings might be controlled by a heme coupled to ion channels.