Regulation of platelet cytosolic free calcium by cyclic nucleotides and protein kinase C

Genome-wide association study of the human brain functional connectome reveals strong vascular component underlying global network efficiency

Complex brain networks play a central role in integrating activity across the human brain, and such networks can be identified in the absence of any external stimulus. We performed 10 genome-wide association studies of resting state network measures of intrinsic brain activity in up to 36,150 participants of European ancestry in the UK Biobank. We found that the heritability of global network efficiency was largely explained by blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) resting state fluctuation amplitudes (RSFA), which are thought to reflect the vascular component of the BOLD signal. RSFA itself had a significant genetic component and we identified 24 genomic loci associated with RSFA, 157 genes whose predicted expression correlated with it, and 3 proteins in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and 4 in plasma. We observed correlations with cardiovascular traits, and single-cell RNA specificity analyses revealed enrichment of vascular related cells. Our analyses also revealed a potential role of lipid transport, store-operated calcium channel activity, and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate binding in resting-state BOLD fluctuations. We conclude that that the heritability of global network efficiency is largely explained by the vascular component of the BOLD response as ascertained by RSFA, which itself has a significant genetic component.

Cell Signaling and Translational Developmental Therapeutics

The relationships between drug pharmacodynamics and subsequent changes in cellular signaling processes are complex. Many in vitro cell signaling studies often use drug concentrations above physiologically safe drug levels achievable in a patient's plasma. Drug companies develop agents to inhibit or modify the activities of specific target enzymes, often without a full consideration that their compounds have additional unknown targets. These two negative sequelae, when published together, become impediments against successful developmental therapeutics and translation because this data distorts our understanding of signaling mechanisms and reduces the probability of successfully translating drug-based concepts from the bench to the bedside. This article will discuss cellular signaling in isolation and as it relates to extant single and combined therapeutic drug interventions. This will lead to a hypothetical series standardized sequential approaches describing a rigorous concept to drug development and clinical translation.

Cyclic nucleotides inhibit MAP kinase activity in low-dose collagen-stimulated platelets

Collagen-induced platelet activation is a complex process involving multiple signaling pathways. The role(s) of MAP kinases (ERKs and p38(MAPK)) are unclear, although at high, but not low, collagen concentrations p38(MAPK) is involved in cPLA(2)-mediated arachidonic acid release, prior to thromboxane generation. Cyclic nucleotides are conventionally regarded as mediators of platelet inhibition. However recent studies suggested a role for cGMP early in a MAP kinase pathway in platelet activation. In the current study the roles and relationships of MAP kinases, cyclic nucleotides and cPLA(2) in platelet activation by low-dose collagen and a thromboxane analogue (U46619) have been evaluated. Stimulants of neither adenylate cyclase (PGI(2)) nor guanylate cyclase (NaNP) alone had any effect on the basal phosphorylation of either MAP kinase. PGI(2) inhibited ERK/p38(MAPK) phosphorylation in response to both agonists which was unaffected by a cPLA(2) inhibitor (AACOCF(3)). NaNP inhibited collagen-induced ERK/p38(MAPK) phosphorylation, which was enhanced by AACOCF(3) and reversed by a guanylate cyclase inhibitor (ODQ). However NaNP had no effect on U46619-induced p38(MAPK) phosphorylation. Thus adenylate cyclase activation inhibits low-dose collagen-induced MAP kinase phosphorylation both prior, and distal, to thromboxane release. The study also supports an inhibitory, rather than stimulatory, role for guanylate cyclase in platelet signaling.

Platelet inhibitory effect of nitric oxide in the human coronary circulation: impact of endothelial dysfunction

OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine whether coronary vascular nitric oxide (NO) release in vivo modulates platelet activation.

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide modulates vasodilator tone and platelet activity via the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway, but whether coronary endothelial dysfunction influences platelet activation in humans is unknown.

METHODS

In 26 patients, we measured coronary blood flow, epicardial diameter and coronary sinus platelet cGMP content during intracoronary infusions of acetylcholine (ACH), L-NG monomethyl arginine (L-NMMA) and sodium nitroprusside.

RESULTS

Acetylcholine increased platelet cGMP content (p = 0.013), but its magnitude was lower in patients with endothelial dysfunction; thus, patients with epicardial constriction with ACH had a 7 +/- 6%, p = ns change compared with a 32 +/- 13%, p = 0.05 increase in platelet cGMP in those with epicardial dilation. Similarly, patients with atherosclerosis or its risk factors had a smaller increase (9 +/- 6%) compared with those having normal coronary arteries without risk factors (51 +/- 22%, p = 0.019). L-NG monomethyl arginine decreased platelet cGMP content to a greater extent in patients with epicardial dilation with ACH (- 15 +/- 7%, p = 0.06) compared to those with constriction (+5 +/- 6% change, p = 0.5). Sodium nitroprusside produced a similar increase in platelet cGMP content in patients with and without endothelial dysfunction (p = 0.56). The effects of sodium nitroprusside, but not ACH or L-NMMA, were reproduced in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Platelet cGMP levels can be modulated by basal and stimulated release of NO. The platelet inhibitory effect of NO is reduced in patients with endothelial dysfunction, which may explain their increased risk from thrombotic events and the improved survival associated with strategies designed to improve vascular function.

Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase restores endothelium-dependent relaxations in proinflammatory mediator-induced blood vessels

Endothelium-dependent relaxations mediated by nitric oxide (NO) are attenuated in arteries exposed to proinflammatory mediators. Because proinflammatory mediators stimulate the expression of the inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in vascular cells, the role of iNOS-derived NO in the impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation was examined in arterial ring preparations. Exposure of rabbit carotid arteries to interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta; 100 U/mL for 7 hours) and porcine coronary arteries to a combination of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (1000 U/mL), interferon-gamma (500 U/mL), and lipopolysaccharide (10 micrograms/mL) for 15 hours (conditions that are associated with iNOS expression) markedly attenuated relaxations to receptor-dependent agonists, whereas those to the calcium ionophore A23187 and sodium nitroprusside were virtually unchanged. The impaired relaxation was not associated with a reduced level of the constitutive endothelial NOS (cNOS) but was accompanied by a reduced formation of biologically active NO as assessed in a bioassay system. The attenuated relaxation of carotid arteries to acetylcholine was not affected by superoxide dismutase and was neither found in arteries exposed to IL-1 beta for only 15 minutes nor in IL-1 beta-treated arteries for 7 hours followed by a 17-hour incubation period without the cytokine. Furthermore, no impaired relaxation was found in rings exposed to IL-1 beta in combination with either cycloheximide or N-alpha-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone or pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, treatments that prevent iNOS expression. In addition, selective inhibition of iNOS with S-methylisothiourea (10 mumol/L) completely restored acetylcholine-induced relaxations. These findings indicate that the continuous generation of NO induced by proinflammatory mediators plays a major role in the inhibition of endothelium-dependent relaxation, most likely by impairing a step in the signal transduction cascade that links activation of endothelial receptors to the calcium-calmodulin-dependent activation of NOS.

Exogenous diacylglycerols synergize with PAF with human platelets, but inhibit PAF-induced responses of rabbit platelets

To investigate whether diacylglycerol (DAG) has a role in reversible platelet aggregation induced by low concentrations of platelet-activating factor (PAF), we attempted to use the DAG kinase inhibitor, R59022, to prevent rapid conversion of DAG to phosphatidic acid. However, we found that R59022 inhibited the binding of [3H]PAF to human and rabbit platelets and to rabbit platelet membranes. We then investigated whether exogenous, cell-penetrating DAGs (1,2-dihexanoyl-sn-glycerol (DHG) and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG)) act synergistically with low concentrations of PAF that alone induce only reversible aggregation. Platelets were isolated and labeled with [14C]serotonin. DHG (25-75 microM) caused slow, weak aggregation and some release of [14C]serotonin with human, but not rabbit, platelets. OAG (25-75 microM) did not aggregate either species' platelets. Phosphorylation of pleckstrin by DHG was more transient in rabbit platelets than previously observed with human platelets. Both DHG and OAG synergistically potentiated PAF-induced aggregation of human platelets, but, paradoxically, concurrently inhibited the PAF-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i): potentiation decreased upon incubation with DAGs before PAF addition. In contrast, DHG strongly inhibited PAF-induced aggregation of rabbit platelets; inhibition decreased upon preincubation. OAG, added with PAF, slightly potentiated aggregation of rabbit platelets: upon preincubation, OAG progressively inhibited. Effects of DHG and OAG on PAF-induced increases in [Ca2+]i in rabbit platelets followed a similar pattern; thus, with rabbit platelets, inhibition of the [Ca2+]i increase may at least partially account for inhibition of PAF-induced aggregation by exogenous DAGs. Results with human platelets are consistent with stimulation of protein kinase C by DAGs, and then metabolism of DAGs and/or negative feedback by DAGs, but results with rabbit platelets indicate both an unexpected species difference and a difference between the effects of DHG and OAG on PAF-induced platelet aggregation.

Regulation of calcium mobilization and entry in human platelets by endothelium-derived factors

Stimulation of Ca2+ mobilization and entry by agonists such as ADP, thrombin, and thromboxane is an early step of platelet activation. Here, we compared the effects of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-elevating prostaglandins, guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP)-elevating nitrovasodilators, membrane-permeant selective activators of cAMP- or cGMP-dependent protein kinases, and physiological endothelium-derived factors on the agonist-evoked Ca2+ mobilization and entry in human platelets. Prostaglandin E1, the prostacyclin analogue Iloprost, the nitric oxide (NO) donor 3-morpholinosydnonimine hydrochloride, and selective activators of cGMP- or cAMP-dependent protein kinase strongly inhibited the agonist-evoked Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular stores and associated late Ca2+ entry but had little effects on the rapid (1st) phase of ADP-evoked Ca2+ entry. During coincubation of platelets with endothelial cells, endothelium-derived factors that were released strongly inhibited platelet agonist-evoked Ca2+ mobilization and only moderately affected the rapid phase of ADP-evoked Ca2+ entry. These effects were partially prevented when endothelial cells were preincubated with cyclooxygenase and/or NO synthase inhibitors. Endothelial cells therefore produce sufficient quantities of labile platelet inhibitors whose effects on the platelet Ca2+ response resemble those observed with selective cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinase activators.

Effects of loratadine on cytosolic Ca2+ levels and leukotriene release: novel mechanisms of action independent of the anti-histamine activity

Loratadine, a non-sedating anti-histamine drug, displays in vitro potential anti-allergic properties not related to its interaction with the histamine H1 receptor. In a search for the mechanisms of these actions, we have found that loratadine induces an elevation of cytosolic calcium ion, [Ca2+]i, in rat peritoneal macrophages or human platelets. The mechanism of this elevation resides in the ability of loratadine to discharge intracellular Ca2+ stores, similarly to thapsigargin. This in turn brings about the inhibition of [Ca2+]i rise induced by physiological activators (platelet activating factor and ADP), as well as by thapsigargin. One of the active metabolites of loratadine, descarbo-ethoxy-loratadine, and another anti-histamine, namely terfenadine, exhibit the same effects. In addition, loratadine partially inhibits antigen-induced leukotriene release from human bronchi, but is unable to inhibit the concomitant contraction. We conclude that loratadine can interfere with the mechanisms controlling Ca2+ release, thus inhibiting the cell activation elicited by various agonists through [Ca2+]i elevation. This might be the mechanism underlying its anti-allergic actions in vitro. Furthermore, loratadine might represent an interesting tool in the study of Ca2+ homeostasis.

Nitric oxide reduces depolarization-induced calcium influx in PC12 cells by a cyclic GMP-mediated mechanism

The present study was undertaken to determine whether nitric oxide (NO) alters voltage-dependent changes in intracellular calcium levels ([Ca2+]i) using PC12 cells as a neuronal model. The addition to PC12 cells of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), which spontaneously releases NO in aqueous solution, significantly inhibited the KCl-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i. The inhibitory action of SNP was concentration-dependent and was mimicked by hydroxylamine which also generates NO. Both L-type (nifedipine sensitive) and N-type (omega-conotoxin sensitive) voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels are present in PC12 cells and may be affected by NO-generating agents. In contrast, SNP did not alter [Ca2+]i in response to purinergic receptor stimulation. Preincubation of PC12 cells with 8-bromo-cyclic GMP also inhibited the KCl-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i. In addition, inclusion of the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, LY83583, blocked the inhibitory action of SNP on the voltage-sensitive changes in [Ca2+]i. The results suggest that NO selectively inhibits voltage-dependent calcium influx in neuronal cells through a cyclic GMP-dependent mechanism.

Cathepsin G and thrombin: evidence for two different platelet receptors

Neutrophil cathepsin G and thrombin, the only platelet agonists that are proteases, exhibit a mandatory requirement for catalytic activity to induce platelet aggregation and signal transduction. The thrombin receptor is a G-protein-coupled receptor which undergoes proteolysis to generate a tethered ligand that causes self-activation. Since cathepsin G strongly resembles thrombin in its ability to activate platelets, we have attempted to determine whether cathepsin G and thrombin function through the same or different receptors. Evidence that thrombin and cathepsin G act at different receptors was as follows: (a) an antibody directed against the thrombin receptor blocked thrombin-induced but not cathepsin G-induced platelet responses; (b) human fibroblasts responded to thrombin and to a synthetic thrombin receptor peptide (comprising residues 42-55 of the thrombin receptor) by exhibiting an elevation in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration but did not respond to cathepsin G; and (c) platelets pretreated with neutrophil elastase failed to respond to thrombin but responded when rechallenged by cathepsin G. Thrombin and cathepsin G exhibit heterologous desensitization that is potentiated by okadaic acid and is attenuated by staurosporine, indicating that phosphorylation of serine/threonine residues is important for desensitization and that protein kinase C may be involved. Since catalytic activity of cathepsin G is required for platelet stimulation, it is probable that platelet activation by cathepsin G requires receptor proteolysis and that a tethered ligand mechanism is involved, suggesting that platelets may possess a family of protease receptors.

Defective signal transduction in platelets from cirrhotics is associated with increased cyclic nucleotides

BACKGROUND

Patients with advanced cirrhosis show defective platelet aggregation, which is dependent, at least in part, on intrinsic platelet abnormalities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activating and inhibitory pathways of platelet signal transduction in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

Twelve cirrhotic patients and 12 control subjects participated in this study. Measurements were performed on washed platelets.

RESULTS

Thrombin-stimulated inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production was reduced fivefold, and the increase in cytosolic calcium concentration was significantly lower in platelets from cirrhotic patients following stimulation with thrombin, platelet activating factor, or U-46619. In addition, the activity of the platelet Na+/H+ antiporter, evaluated after an acid load, was significantly lower in platelets from cirrhotic patients (0.90 +/- 0.19 vs. 1.37 +/- 0.16 delta pHi/min, P = 0.07). Cirrhotic patients also showed a significantly increased basal intraplatelet content of both 5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) (2724 +/- 330 vs. 1561 +/- 258 fmol/10(8) platelets, P < 0.05) and 5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) (217 +/- 18 vs. 159 +/- 29 fmol/10(8) platelets, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that in platelets from cirrhotic patients, defective early signal transduction is associated with an increase in platelet cAMP and cGMP, thus revealing new mechanisms contributing to the defective platelet function in this disease.

Differential sensitivities of the prostacyclin and nitric oxide biosynthetic pathways to cytosolic calcium in bovine aortic endothelial cells

1. Bovine aortic endothelial cells were cultured in vitro, and shown to release both prostacyclin (PGI2; Kact = 24.1 nM) and endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF, NO; Kact = 0.7 nM) in a concentration-dependent manner when exposed to bradykinin. 2. The bradykinin-dependent release of PGI2 (but not EDRF) was inhibited by 1 microM isoprenaline or 5 microM forskolin, and the inhibitory effect of isoprenaline could be reversed by the beta 2-adrenoceptor antagonist, ICI 118551. In contrast, isoprenaline had no capacity to inhibit PGI2 release stimulated by exogenous arachidonic acid. 3. Exposure of cells to bradykinin increased the cytosolic concentration of Ca2+ ions ([Ca2+]i; Kact = 4.8 nM), and the effect was inhibited by both 1 microM isoprenaline and 5 microM forskolin. 4. In similar experiments, exposure of cells to ionomycin also increased [Ca2+]i and the values of [Ca2+]i were calibrated in terms of the ionomycin concentration. In subsequent experiments involving exposure of endothelial cells to selected concentrations of ionomycin, it was possible to show that the biosynthesis of NO was triggered at ionomycin concentrations about one tenth of the required for PGI2 biosynthesis and that these corresponded to a [Ca2+]i threshold of 350 nM for PGI2 release while that for EDRF release was less than 200 nM. 5. These differences in Ca2+ ion sensitivity explain the selective inhibition of bradykinin-stimulated PGI2 biosynthesis (to the exclusion of NO biosynthesis) by isoprenaline or forskolin, both of which attenuate bradykinin-dependent increases in [Ca2+]i.

Effects of nitric oxide-containing compounds on increases in cytosolic ionized Ca2+ and on aggregation of human platelets

The present study was undertaken to determine the modulatory effects of nitric oxide (NO)-releasing compounds on increases in cytosolic ionized calcium ([Ca2+]i) and on aggregation of gel-filtered human platelets induced via diverse agonists. We used various sydnonimines and organic nitrates as donors of NO. Gel-filtered and fura-2-loaded platelets were stimulated with ADP (4-8 microM), collagen (2-10 micrograms/ml) or thrombin (0.02-0.05 IU/ml), respectively. Half-maximal inhibiting effects of sydnonimines on agonist-evoked increases in [Ca2+]i were observed between 30 and 1000 nM, while half-maximal inhibiting effects of the compounds on aggregation were between 3 and 500 nM. The compound C 87-3754, which is the bioactive metabolite of pirsidomine, was a much stronger inhibitor of increases in [Ca2+]i than of platelet aggregation. This was due to an enhanced NO release from this compound exposed to ultraviolet light during Ca2+ measurement. The organic nitrates isosorbide 5-mono-nitrate and nicorandil inhibited both aggregation and increase of cytosolic ionized calcium in stimulated platelets at half-maximal concentrations of approximately 200 microM. The present results suggest that some of the effects of NO on platelets are independent of cytosolic ionized calcium. The results also suggest that some of the inhibitory effects of NO-releasing compounds correspond rather to the presence of the A forms (NO-containing intermediates) than to the presence of free NO.

Cyclic nucleotides and intracellular-calcium homeostasis in human platelets

The relationship between agonist-sensitive calcium compartments and those discharged by the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin were studied in human platelets. In this context, calcium mobilization from intracellular pools and manganese influx was investigated in relation to the effect of altered cyclic-nucleotide levels. For maximal calcium release from intracellular stores, thapsigargin, compared to a receptor agonist like thrombin, requires the platelet's self-amplification mechanism, known to generate thromboxane A2. With this lipid mediator formed, thapsigargin released calcium and stimulated manganese influx in a manner similar to thrombin. Blocking the thromboxane receptor by addition of sulotroban (BM13.177) or, alternatively, increasing platelet cAMP or cGMP using prostacyclin or sodium nitroprusside, dramatically reduced the ability of thapsigargin to release calcium from intracellular compartments. The same experimental conditions significantly reduced the rate of manganese influx initiated by thapsigargin compared to thrombin. The experiments indicate that thapsigargin-sensitive compartments play only a minor role in inducing manganese influx compared to the receptor-sensitive compartment. Cyclic nucleotides accelerate the redistribution of an agonist-elevated platelet calcium into the thapsigargin-sensitive compartment, from which calcium can be released by inhibition of the Ca(2+)-ATPase. In human platelets, thapsigargin-induced calcium increase and influx were responsible for only part the calcium release resulting from inhibition of the corresponding ATPase; another part results from the indirect effect of thapsigargin acting via thromboxane-A2-receptor activation. Cyclic nucleotides are therefore an interesting regulatory device which can modify the thapsigargin response by not allowing the self-amplification mechanism of platelets to operate.

Inhibition of platelet aggregation by the cAMP-phosphodiesterase inhibitor, cilostamide, may not be associated with activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase

We examined the involvement of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (A kinase)2 in the inhibition by cilostamide, a specific inhibitor of the low Km cAMP-phosphodiesterase (PDE), on 9,11-epithio-11,12-methanothromboxane A2 (STA2)-induced platelet aggregation. For comparative purposes, the PGE1 analogue, 17S-20-dimethyl-trans-delta 2-PGE1 (OP-1206) was used. OP-1206 (IC50 = 18 +/- 0.55 nM) and cilostamide (IC50 = 40 +/- 4.5 nM) were both potent inhibitors of the platelet aggregation induced by STA2 (1 microM). OP-1206 and cilostamide dose-dependently inhibited elevations in intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) caused by STA2. OP-1206 caused an almost complete inhibition of Ca2+ mobilization, but cilostamide did not prevent the STA2-induced elevation in [Ca2+]i to the same extent as OP-1206, even at a high concentration (greater than 200 nM). Cilostamide did not increase the cAMP level at concentrations (5-100 nm) which affected STA2-induced aggregation. OP-1206 significantly increased cAMP contents in platelets, and the degree of aggregation inhibition by OP-1206 appears to be related to the size of increase in cAMP. OP-1206 increased phosphorylation of the 50,000 mol. wt vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein, at concentrations of 7.9-79 nM, which inhibited aggregation induced by STA2. Cilostamide treatment resulted in a marginal increase in the 50,000 mol. wt phosphorylation at concentrations (10-100 nM) which completely inhibited the STA2-induced aggregation. (8R*, 9S*, 11S*)-(-)-9-Hydroxy-9-n-hexyloxy-8-methyl-2,3,9,10- tetrahydro-8,11-epoxy-1H, 8H, 11H-2, 7b, 11a-triazadibenzo(a,g)-cycloocta(c,d,e)trinden-1-one (KT-5720), a specific inhibitor of A kinase, not only reversed the inhibition by OP-1206 of STA2-induced platelet aggregation, but also inhibited the OP-1206-induced protein phosphorylation. However, the inhibition by cilostamide of STA2-induced aggregation was not prevented by pretreatment with KT-5720. Inhibition of the STA2-induced aggregation by OP-1206 may be associated with cAMP-dependent protein phosphorylation, while cilostamide may have inhibitory effects on STA2-induced platelet activation through mechanisms other than the activation of A kinase.

Protein kinase C stimulates dense tubular Ca2+ uptake in the intact human platelet by increasing the Vm of the Ca(2+)-ATPase pump: stimulation by phorbol ester, inhibition by calphostin C

The effects of protein kinase C (PKC) on Ca2+ transport were investigated in human intact platelets. The indicator quin2 was used to measure the free cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) and to search for possible PKC effects on the Ca(2+)-ATPase extrusion pump located in the plasma membrane. The Ca2+ indicator chlorotetracycline (CTC) was used to study PKC effects on the dense tubular Ca(2+)-ATPase uptake pump. The activity of PKC was stimulated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and was inhibited with calphostin C. Neither PKC activation nor inhibition had any effect on [Ca2+]cyt or the Ca2+ extrusion pump. Substantial activation of the dense tubular pump was observed with PMA. In resting platelets bathed in 2 mM external Ca2+ giving [Ca2+]cyt = 102-106 nM, activation of PKC by PMA (100 nM) increases the rate and extent of dense tubular Ca2+ uptake to 1.62 +/- 0.35 and 1.25 +/- 0.3 times control value (respectively). The Vm of the dense tubular pump was measured by using ionomycin to manipulate [Ca2+]cyt. It is shown that PMA increases the Vm by a factor of 1.7 +/- 0.4 but has no effect on the Km value (= 180 nM). An unexpected finding was that PKC activity supports a portion of the basal activity of the dense tubular Ca2+ pump in resting platelets. Preincubation with the inhibitor calphostin C (100 nM) decreases the rate and extent of dense tubular Ca2+ uptake in resting platelets by 38 +/- 5% and 29 +/- 21% (respectively). This is due to a 28 +/- 9% decrease in the Vm of the dense tubular pump. This suggests that there is a low level of stimulation of dense tubular Ca2+ pump mediated by PKC in resting platelets.

Cyclic nucleotides attenuate thrombin-evoked alterations in parameters of platelet Na/H antiport. The role of cytosolic Ca

In this work, we explored the role of cyclic nucleotides in modulating parameters of the Na/H antiport in human platelets. Sodium nitroprusside and iloprost, as well as cyclic nucleotide analogues, were used to raise cellular levels of cAMP and cGMP. Cyclic nucleotides reversed the thrombin-evoked alkaline shift in cytosolic pH set point and the activity of the Na/H antiport, concurrently with attenuation of thrombin-induced rise in cytosolic free Ca. No effect of cyclic nucleotides was observed in platelets not treated with thrombin, or platelets subjected to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. cAMP did not reverse ionomycin-induced changes in the parameters of the Na/H antiport. Collectively, these observations indicate that cyclic nucleotides modulate the Na/H antiporter in human platelets through their effect on thrombin-evoked changes in cytosolic free Ca. Presumably, this effect holds for other agonists which stimulate phospholipase C, raise cytosolic-free Ca, and activate the Na/H antiport through protein kinase C dependent and protein kinase C-independent mechanisms.

Stimulation of dense tubular Ca2+ uptake in human platelets by cAMP

Elevation of intracellular cAMP is shown to increase the rate (V) and maximal extent of Ca2+ uptake by the dense tubules in intact human platelets. Elevation of [cAMP] was accomplished by preincubation with the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin or with dibutyryl-cAMP (Bt2-cAMP). The free concentration of Ca2+ in the dense tubular lumen ([Ca2+]dt) was monitored using the fluorescence of chlorotetracycline (CTC) according to protocols developed in this laboratory. The free cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) was monitored in parallel experiments with quin2. Both [Ca2+]cyt and [Ca2+]dt were analyzed in terms of competition between pump and leak mechanisms in the plasma membrane (PM) and dense tubular membrane (DT). When platelets are incubated in media with approx. 1 microM external Ca2+, [Ca2+]cyt is approx. 50 nM and [Ca2+]dt is very low. When 2 mM external Ca2+ is added, [Ca2+]cyt rises to approx. 100 nM and the process of dense tubular Ca2+ uptake can be resolved. Forskolin (10 microM) and Bt2-cAMP increase the rate of dense tubular Ca2+ uptake (V) to 2.1 +/- 0.60 and 1.70 +/- 40 times control values (respectively). The agents also increase the final [Ca2+]dt to 1.70 +/- 0.21 and 1.72 +/- 0.60 times control values (respectively). Titrations with ionomycin (Iono) showed that the increase was due to an increase in the Vm of the dense tubular Ca2+ pump. With [Iono] = 500 nM, [Ca2+]cyt was raised to greater than or equal to 1.0 microM and Vm of the dense tubular pump was elicited. (At [Iono] = 1.0 microM, the final [Ca2+]dt values were degraded 15% due to shunting of Ca2+ uptake.) Analysis showed that forskolin (10 microM) and Bt2-cAMP (1 mM) increase the Vm by a factors of 1.56 +/- 40 and 1.56 +/- 40, respectively. Analysis showed that neither agent changed the Km of the pump significantly from its control value of 180 nM. Neither agent changed the rate constant for passive leakage of Ca2+ across the DT membrane (1.7 min-1).

Cyclic AMP stimulates Ca(2+)-ATPase-mediated Ca2+ extrusion from human platelets

The effect of cAMP on active Ca2+ extrusion across the plasma membrane of intact human platelets was studied using quin2, a fluorimetric indicator of free Ca2+ in the cytoplasmic compartment ([Ca2+]cyt). Elevations of cAMP were achieved by incubation with dibutyryl-cAMP or by forskolin, which was found to selectively elevate cAMP without affecting cGMP levels. Progress curves of Ca2+ extrusion from quin2-overloaded platelets were measured. The rate vs. [Ca2+]cyt characteristic was calculated as previously described (Johansson, J.S. and Haynes, D.H. (1988) J. Membr. Biol. 104, 147-163). Forskolin, at a maximally effective concentration of 10 microM, was shown to stimulate Ca2+ extrusion by increasing by a factor of 1.6 +/- 0.5 the Vm of a saturable component, previously identified with a Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase located in the plasma membrane. Neither the Km (80 nM) or Hill coefficient (1.7 +/- 0.3) of the Ca(2+)-ATPase was affected. Forskolin had no effect on the linear, non-saturable component of extrusion (previously identified with a Na+/Ca2+ exchanger) over the [Ca2+]cyt range examined (50-1500 nM). Dibutyryl-cAMP (Bt2-cAMP, 1 mM) stimulated the Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase component of Ca2+ extrusion by a factor of 2.0 +/- 0.6. Separate experiments showed that 10 microM forskolin reduces the resting [Ca2+]cyt from 112 nM to 96 nM. Mathematical analysis showed that this can be accounted for by the above-mentioned increase in Vm of the pump, countered by a 37-74% increase in the rate constant for passive Ca2+ leakage across the plasma membrane. The results suggest two mechanisms by which prostacyclin-induced elevation of cAMP inhibits platelet aggregation: (a) lowering of resting [Ca2+]cyt and (b) increasing the rate of Ca2+ extrusion after the initial influx or triggered release event.

Cyclic GMP increases the rate of the calcium extrusion pump in intact human platelets but has no direct effect on the dense tubular calcium accumulation system

Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and other agents that elevate cGMP levels are known to inhibit the aggregation of human platelets. Published data suggest that cGMP attenuation of agonist-induced Ca2+ transients is involved in this effect. The present study shows that elevation of cGMP increases the rate of the Ca2+ extrusion pump located in the plasma membrane (PM) but does not have a direct effect on the Ca2+ accumulating pump of the dense tubules (DT). The study verifies that SNP can specifically elevate the cGMP level in the platelet. The kinetics of the Ca2+ extrusion system were studied in situ in platelets overloaded with the cytoplasmic Ca2+ indicator quin2 according to a published protocol developed in this laboratory. Elevation of cGMP by means of (10 microM) SNP increased the Vm of the Ca(2+)-ATPase pump by 63%, without affecting its Km (66-80 nM) or Hill coefficient (1.6-1.8). Dibutyryl-cGMP (Bt2-cGMP), preincubated for 45 min at 1 mM, increased the Vm by a factor of 2.2 +/- 0.4. The experiments did not give any indication that SNP or Bt2-cGMP change the rate of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger which makes a minor contribution to Ca2+ extrusion in the studied [Ca2+]cyt range. The rate constant for passive leakage of Ca2+ across the PM was increased by 32 +/- 4% by SNP and 90 +/- 34% by Bt2-cGMP. The net result is that the free Ca2+ in the cytoplasm ([Ca2+]cyt) at 'rest' is lowered from control values of 112 nM to 89 nM or 80 nM, respectively. The kinetics of Ca2+ uptake by the dense tubules were determined in situ using the fluorescence of chlorotetracycline (CTC) according to protocols developed in this laboratory. Analysis showed that SNP and Bt2-cGMP had no effect on the Vm or Km of the dense tubular pump, and did not affect the rate constant for passive leakage. The agents did decrease resting [Ca2+]dt by 25% or 30%, respectively, but this result can be explained purely in terms of the reduced [Ca2+]cyt. The effects of cGMP (vs. cAMP) on the PM and DT pumps are closely correlated with reported effects of cGMP/cAMP induced phosphorylation of a protein of the molecular weight of the PM pump and a 22 kDa activator of the DT pump. Cyclic AMP increases the rate of both the PM and the DT pumps, whereas cGMP increases the rate of the PM pump only.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Characterization of a new compound, S35b, as a guanylate cyclase activator in human platelets

The effects of S35b (4-methyl-3-phenyl sulfonylfuroxan), a new phenyl sulfonylfuroxan compound, were investigated on human platelets activated by different agonists. Platelet aggregation evoked by arachidonic acid (AA), collagen, ADP and thrombin was inhibited by the drug in a dose-dependent manner. S35b inhibited the AA-induced increase of cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and production of malondialdehyde. A primary action of the compound on cyclooxygenase is unlikely since: (1) U-46619 (15s-hydroxy-11,9-[epoxymethano]-prosta-5Z,13E-dienoic acid, a stable epoxymethano analog of prostaglandin H2) could not reverse the inhibitory effect of S35b on AA-induced aggregation and [Ca2+]i increase; (2) U-46619-induced aggregation and [Ca2+]i rise were inhibited by S35b; and (3) at high collagen concentrations platelet aggregation (which is unresponsive to aspirin under such conditions) was blocked by S35b as well. Thus the drug action is likely to be exerted at an early step of the platelet activation pathway. The elevation in the platelet cGMP level evoked by S35b in a time- and concentration-dependent manner can account for the inhibitory effect: increased cGMP levels could interfere, for instance, with G protein-phospholipase C coupling and subsequent phosphoinositide hydrolysis.

Role of cGMP and cGMP-dependent protein kinase in nitrovasodilator inhibition of agonist-evoked calcium elevation in human platelets

Most platelet agonists activate and elevate the cytosolic free calcium concentration in human platelets through receptor-dependent mechanisms that are antagonized by cAMP- and cGMP-elevating agents. Nitrovasodilators such as nitroprusside and endothelium-derived relaxing factor are potent cGMP-elevating platelet inhibitors. In the present study, the role of cGMP and cGMP-dependent protein kinase in nitrovasodilator inhibition of ADP- and thrombin-evoked calcium elevation and activation of human platelets was investigated. Preincubation of platelets with 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-pCPT-cGMP; a membrane-permeant selective activator of the cGMP-dependent protein kinase that does not significantly affect cGMP-regulated phosphodiesterases) inhibited the thrombin-induced phosphorylation mediated by myosin light chain kinase and protein kinase C. Nitrovasodilator-induced protein phosphorylation in human platelets was distinct from that induced by cAMP-elevating prostaglandins and could be mimicked by 8-pCPT-cGMP. Preincubation of human platelets with nitrovasodilators or 8-pCPT-cGMP inhibited the ADP- and thrombin-evoked calcium elevation in the presence and absence of external calcium. Nitrovasodilators and 8-pCPT-cGMP also inhibited the agonist-induced Mn2+ influx, but stopped-flow experiments indicated that the ADP receptor-operated cation channel was not significantly inhibited. These results suggest that in human platelets nitrovasodilators inhibit the agonist-induced calcium mobilization from intracellular stores and the secondary store-related calcium influx but not the ADP receptor-operated cation channel. The results also suggest that these nitrovasodilator effects are mediated by cGMP and the cGMP-dependent protein kinase.

Inositol phospholipid turnover in PAF transmembrane signalling

In a variety of cells and tissues, platelet activating factor (PAF) stimulates phospholipase C catalyzed breakdown of phosphoinositides. This results in the generation of the second messengers, inositol trisphosphate and diglyceride. This process occurs independently of extracellular Ca2+. A number of PAF structural analogues, receptor antagonists and drugs have been utilized to pharmacologically probe the activation of phospholipase C. PAF stimulation of the phosphoinositide turnover was shown to be sensitive to pertussis toxin in some systems, but not in others. The involvement of guanine nucleotide binding protein(s) and tyrosine kinase(s) in this process have also been postulated. These developments give new insights into PAF-receptor function at the molecular level, and also provide leads towards a better understanding of the cellular responses to PAF.

Protein kinase C promotes arachidonate mobilization through enhancement of CoA-independent transacylase activity in platelets

A role for protein kinase C in arachidonate mobilization was demonstrated. Treatment of rat platelets with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) or the diacylglycerol 1-oleoyl-2-acetylglycerol increased the transfer rate of arachidonate (AA) from phosphatidylcholine to phosphatidylethanolamine and stimulated AA release. The transfer dose-dependently induced by PMA was inhibited by staurosporine. Ether phospholipids were the acceptors of AA in these stimulated transfer reactions. Membrane-bound protein kinase C activity was enhanced by PMA, and this increase was inhibited by staurosporine. AA transfer between phospholipids is due to the action of polyunsaturated-fatty-acid-specific transacylases. For this purpose, transacylase activities were assayed in cell-free systems from PMA-treated platelets. We observed that the CoA-independent transacylase activity was modulated in parallel to AA transfer as a function of PMA concentration. Taken together, the data show that protein kinase C activation might promote the mobilization of AA in platelets through the enhancement of CoA-independent transacylase activity.

Platelet activation by diacylglycerol or ionomycin is inhibited by nitroprusside

Experiments were performed to elucidate the role of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) on platelet activation induced by protein kinase C (PKC) activators and calcium ionophore. Human platelets were pretreated with acetylsalicylic acid and with hirudin and apyrase. Aggregation and ATP secretion in response to the PKC activators 4 beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and 1-oleoyl 2-acetylglycerol (OAG) were inhibited by the nitrovasodilator sodium nitroprusside (SNP), an activator of guanylate cyclase, and by 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (8-Br-cGMP). The experiments were performed in the presence of M&B 22948, an inhibitor of cGMP phosphodiesterase. SNP and 8-Br-cGMP also inhibited platelet aggregation and secretion evoked by the ionophore ionomycin. In fura-2 loaded platelets SNP did not affect basal cytosolic Ca2+ level nor the rise induced by low concentrations of ionomycin, both in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. The phosphorylation of the 47 and 20 kDa protein induced by ionomycin or PMA were not significantly decreased by SNP or 8-Br-cGMP. The present results suggest that cGMP is able to inhibit both the PKC and the Ca(2+)-dependent pathways leading to platelet activation by interfering, similarly to cAMP, with processes following protein phosphorylation, close to the effector systems.

Regulation of platelet-activating factor receptor and PAF receptor-mediated arachidonic acid release by protein kinase C activation in rat Kupffer cells

Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a potent protein kinase C activator, caused down-regulation of receptors for platelet-activating factor (AGEPC) on the plasma membrane of rat Kupffer cells (40-50% reduction) but had a relatively minor effect on the binding affinity of the receptors for AGEPC (Kd = 0.30 nM vs 0.56 nM) when incubated with the cells for a short period of time (30-60 min). As a consequence, the AGEPC receptor-mediated arachidonic acid release was attenuated. The PMA-induced down-regulation of AGEPC receptors was concentration-dependent, specific, and transient (the maximal effect was observed at about 1 h and the level of specific [3H]AGEPC binding gradually returned to the control level within 8.5 h and even higher than the control level at 24 h after addition of PMA). Upon removing PMA from the culture medium, more than half of the lost receptors were replaced within 1 h at 37 degrees C and the recovery process appeared to be independent of protein synthesis. The ability of PMA to down-regulate the AGEPC receptors was lost in cells "down-regulated" for protein kinase C, suggesting that the receptor-regulatory effect of PMA is protein kinase C-dependent. Protein kinase C appeared to be involved in the AGEPC-induced arachidonic acid release since 1-(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-2-methyl-piperazine dihydrochloride, a protein kinase C inhibitor, attenuated the stimulatory effect of AGEPC in this system. In addition, AGEPC-induced [3H]arachidonic acid release was inhibited significantly in cells down-regulated for protein kinase C. The present study thus demonstrates that protein kinase C has dual actions in the regulation of AGEPC-mediated events, i.e., a positive forward action, regulating AGEPC-stimulated arachidonic acid release, and a negative action, which inactivates or down-regulates AGEPC receptors.

Influence of nitric oxide on agonist-mediated calcium mobilization in platelets

Recent studies have characterized endothelium-derived relaxing factor as nitric oxide. It appears to exert its effect by elevating intracellular levels of cyclic GMP. In this study we confirm that nitric oxide is a potent inhibitor of agonist-induced irreversible aggregation. At the concentrations tested nitric oxide effectively blocked thrombin-stimulated mobilization of cytosolic-free calcium in Fura 2-loaded platelets. In addition, nitric oxide prevented the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-stimulated calcium rise in cytosolic calcium in saponin-permeabilized Fura 2-loaded platelets. Similar to the action of adenylate cyclase stimulators, nitric oxide facilitated lowering of calcium levels raised by the action of agonists. The specific mechanism by which it exerts its effect on intracellular levels of calcium is not clear.

Signal transduction during platelet-activating factor-induced lymphocyte binding to endothelial cells

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a lipid mediator of inflammation. PAF pretreatment of cultured endothelial cells leads to an increase in lymphocyte binding. We have analysed the intracellular signal transduction during this PAF-induced effect. The protein kinase C activator, phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate, mimicked PAF in the binding assay. Concomitantly, the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor H7 down-regulated the PAF-induced binding to nearly control level. Also dibutyryl-cAMP treatment of endothelial cells increased lymphocyte binding, but the protein kinase A inhibitor HA1004 did not alter the PAF-induced binding. Furthermore, PAF did not increase the level of cytosolic cAMP in the endothelial cells. Other second messengers, cGMP and Ca2+, had no effect on lymphocyte binding. These findings suggest that protein kinase C, but not other signal transduction pathway, is essential in the PAF-induced lymphocyte binding to endothelial cells.

EDRF increases cyclic GMP in platelets during passage through the coronary vascular bed

It was investigated whether endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) increases cyclic GMP (cGMP) content in platelets passing through the coronary bed. Boluses of washed platelets from healthy human donors were injected into the aortic perfusion line of isolated, saline-perfused rabbit hearts under constant flow conditions (28 +/- 2 ml/min). The coronary effluent was collected over 5 seconds, and the cGMP content of platelets was determined by radioimmunoassay. Platelet cGMP amounted to 0.34 +/- 0.11 pmol/mg protein after passage through the unstimulated coronary bed. During stimulation with acetylcholine (1 microM), it increased to 1.6 +/- 0.5 pmol/mg (p less than 0.01; n = 14). Simultaneously, the platelet recovery (measured over 20 seconds after injection) was enhanced (by 45 +/- 11%; p less than 0.01) during endothelial stimulation with acetylcholine. Treatment with the EDRF inhibitor hemoglobin (6 microM) completely abolished the increase in platelet cGMP (p less than 0.01; n = 11) as well as the enhanced platelet recovery (n = 8). Inhibition of EDRF by hemoglobin reduced also the basal platelet cGMP content to 0.17 +/- 0.11 pmol/mg (p less than 0.01). The data indicate that basally released EDRF is able to increase cGMP in platelets during a single passage through the coronary bed. The enhanced recovery of platelets after EDRF stimulation, which coincides with an increase of platelet cGMP, suggests that EDRF plays an important role as inhibitor of platelet activation in the coronary circulation.

Cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase does not increase calcium transport in platelet microsomes

Cyclic AMP inhibits platelet activation, at least in part, by reducing intracellular levels of ionic calcium. Previous studies using platelet microsomal fractions have suggested that one mechanism for this effect is stimulation by cyclic AMP and its protein kinase of calcium uptake into microsomal storage sites. In the present study, the effect of cyclic AMP and its protein kinase on calcium uptake by microsomal membranes has been re-examined using the active catalytic subunit of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase. The catalytic subunit increased calcium uptake two-fold, but this effect was not inhibited by boiling the catalytic subunit or by recombination with the regulatory subunit of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, conditions that inhibited catalytic subunit activity. Conversely, dialysis of the catalytic subunit preparation against low phosphate buffer, which did not inhibit catalytic subunit activity, inhibited the stimulation of calcium uptake by the catalytic subunit preparation. Finally, the addition of high phosphate buffer, similar in phosphate concentration to that of the catalytic subunit preparation, stimulated calcium uptake. We conclude that the catalytic subunit does not directly stimulate calcium uptake by platelet microsomes.

Cyclic GMP and nitroprusside inhibit the activation of human platelets by fluoroaluminate

Sodium nitroprusside, an activator of the soluble guanylate cyclase, inhibits the intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, ATP secretion and aggregation of human platelets evoked by fluoroaluminate. Similar results are obtained with 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (8-Br-cGMP). Both nitroprusside and 8-Br-cGMP inhibit the protein kinase C-dependent phosphorylation of the 47 and 20 kDa proteins induced by fluoroaluminate, but not by the protein kinase C activators phorbol ester and diacylglycerol. Since fluoroaluminate interacts directly with a G protein, the present results suggest that the cGMP interferes with platelet activation at the level of G protein-phospholipase C.

Purification of a vasodilator-regulated phosphoprotein from human platelets

Cyclic-nucleotide-elevating vasodilators such as prostaglandin E1, prostacyclin, sodium nitroprusside and endothelium-derived relaxing factor inhibit both contraction of vascular smooth muscle cells and the aggregation of platelets at an early step of the activation cascade. Previous studies from this laboratory [Waldmann, R., Nieberding, M. and Walter, U. (1987) Eur. J. Biochem. 167, 441-448) established that in human platelets cyclic-nucleotide-elevating vasodilators stimulated a pattern of protein phosphorylation which was mediated by both cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases. Of particular interest was a membrane-bound 50-kDa protein whose phosphorylation was increased both by cAMP- and cGMP-elevating vasodilators in intact platelets and by endogenous cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinase in platelet membranes. Since the molecular mechanism of action of cyclic-nucleotide-elevating vasodilators is unknown, this 50-kDa phosphoprotein from human platelets was purified to apparent homogeneity by salt extraction, anion, cation and dye-ligand chromatography. The purified protein migrated as a 46-kDa protein in SDS/PAGE, was an excellent substrate for both cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases and migrated in SDS/PAGE as a 50-kDa protein after phosphorylation by these protein kinases. Analysis by limited proteolysis, tryptic fingerprinting and of phosphoamino acids established that the purified protein is identical with the 50-kDa protein phosphorylated by both cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases in platelet membranes and in response to cAMP- and cGMP-elevating vasodilators with intact platelets. Evidence is presented that the purified protein contains at least two phosphorylation sites, each of which is preferentially phosphorylated by either cAMP- or cGMP-dependent protein kinase. The availability of this vasodilator-regulated phosphoprotein as a purified protein should now allow new approaches for investigating the function of this protein and its possible role in the mechanism of action of cyclic-nucleotide-elevating vasodilators.

Nitroprusside differentially inhibits ADP-stimulated calcium influx and mobilization in human platelets

1. The effect of nitroprusside on cGMP concn., cAMP concn., shape change, aggregation, intracellular free Ca2+ concn. (by quin-2 fluorescence) and Mn2+ entry (by quenching of quin-2) was investigated in human platelets incubated with 1 mM-Ca2+ or 1 mM-EGTA. 2. Nitroprusside (10 nM-10 microM) caused similar concentration-dependent increases in platelet cGMP concn. and was without effect on cAMP concn. in the presence of extracellular Ca2+ or EGTA. 3. In ADP (3-6 microM)-stimulated platelets, nitroprusside caused 50% inhibition of shape change at 0.4 microM (+Ca2+) or 1.3 microM (+EGTA), aggregation at 0.09 microM (+Ca2+) and of increased intracellular Ca2+ at 0.02 microM (+Ca2+) or 2.1 microM (+EGTA). Entry of 1 mM-Mn2+ (-Ca2+) was inhibited by 80% by 5 microM-nitroprusside. 4. In ionomycin (20-500 nM)-stimulated platelets, nitroprusside (10 nM-100 microM) did not inhibit shape change or intracellular-Ca2+-increase responses, and only partially inhibited aggregation. 5. In phorbol myristate acetate (10 nM)-stimulated platelets, neither shape change nor aggregation was inhibited by 5 microM-nitroprusside. 6. The data demonstrate that nitroprusside inhibits ADP-mediated Ca2+ influx more potently than Ca2+ mobilization. Nitroprusside appears not to influence Ca2+ efflux or sequestration and not to affect the sensitivity of the activation mechanism to intracellular Ca2+ concn. or activation of protein kinase C.

Deliberate quin2 overload as a method for in situ characterization of active calcium extrusion systems and cytoplasmic calcium binding: application to the human platelet

The objectives of the title were accomplished by a four-step experimental procedure followed by a simple graphical and mathematical analysis. Platelets are (i) overloaded with the indicator quin2 to cytoplasmic concentrations of 2.9 mM and (ii) are exposed to 2 mM external Ca2+ and 1.0 microM ionomycin to rapidly achieve cytoplasmic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) of ca. 1.5 microM. (iii) The external Ca2+ is removed by EGTA addition, and (iv) the active Ca2+ extrusion process is then monitored as a function of time. Control experiments show that the ionophore shunts dense tubular uptake and does not contribute to the Ca2+ efflux process during phases iii-iv and that the extrusion process is sensitive to metabolic inhibitors. The progress curves for the decline of quin2 fluorescence (resulting from active Ca2+ extrusion) were analyzed as a function of [Ca2+]cyt using a mathematical model involving the probability that an exported Ca2+ was removed from a quin2 complex (vs. a cytoplasmic binding element). The observed rates of decline of quin2 fluorescence at a particular [Ca2+]cyt are dependent upon (i) the absolute rate of the extrusion system (a function of its Km, Vm and Hill coefficient (n)), (ii) the intrinsic Ca2+ buffer capacity of the cytoplasm (a function of the total site concentration ([B]T) and its Kd) and (iii) the buffer capacity of the intracytoplasmic quin2 (a function of its concentration and Kd). The contribution of (iii) was known and varied and was used to determine (ii) and (i) as a function of [Ca2+]cyt. The Ca2+ binding data were verified by 45Ca2+ experimentation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Phosphoinositide turnover and calcium ion mobilization in receptor activation

Ca2+ is now recognized to play a central role in the cellular signal transduction system. The hydrolysis of inositol phospholipids is an initial and essential event in Ca2+-mobilizing receptor activation. Phospholipase C cleaves phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate to yield two intracellular messengers: inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate that mobilizes Ca2+ from intracellular storage sites, and 1,2-diacylglycerol that activates protein kinase C. In this chapter, I will describe the functional role of phosphoinositide breakdown during receptor activation and the regulatory mechanism of phospholipase C.

Effect of a stimulant of guanylate cyclase, sin 1, on calcium movements and phospholipase C activation in thrombin-stimulated human platelets

The effects of sin 1, a metabolite of an antianginal agent, molsidomine, were investigated on human platelet activation induced by thrombin. This drug promoted a slight inhibition of serotonin release in a medium containing 1 mM Ca2+ or 1 mM EGTA (from 63% to 46% and from 57% to 41% of total serotonin secretion, respectively, with the highest dose used). Under these conditions, Ca2+ movements, monitored by quin 2 fluorescence, were markedly impaired. The most pronounced effect was towards Ca2+ influx, which presented a rapid inhibition with low doses. In the presence of external calcium, thrombin raised cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration from 100 nM to 1277 nM. This was reduced to 466 nM and 175 nM with 10(-7) M and 10(-4) M sin 1, respectively. Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores was less inhibited, since cytoplasmic free Ca2+ movements, sin 1 was tested on [32P] phosphatidic acid synthesis resulting from phospholipase C activation induced by thrombin. Phosphatidic acid labelling displayed a maximal inhibition of 43-50% with the highest doses of sin 1 (10(-4) M-10(-3) M) with or without Ca2+ in the incubation medium. However, this effect appeared much more sensitive to sin 1 in the presence of external Ca2+ (25% at 10(-7) M sin 1 with external Ca2+ against 12% at the same sin 1 concentration with EGTA). This discrepancy might be explained by the difference of cGMP level obtained when platelets were treated by sin 1 in the presence or in the absence of Ca2+ in the medium. This study shows that the major target of sin 1 via cGMP is not platelet phospholipase C as previously described, but inhibition of Ca2+ influx through plasma membrane.

Cytosolic calcium in platelet activation

Experiments with permeabilised platelets, and with intact platelets loaded with fluorescent Ca2+-indicators, over the past several years have greatly extended our knowledge and understanding of cytosolic Ca2+ as a platelet activator and its interactions with other cytosolic regulators. This article outlines insights, gained from the use of the fluorescent dyes, into maintenance and restoration of basal [Ca2+]i, mechanisms of receptor-mediated Ca2+-mobilisation and quantitation of [Ca2+]i/response relations in intact human platelets.

The action of the protein kinase C inhibitor, staurosporine, on human platelets. Evidence against a regulatory role for protein kinase C in the formation of inositol trisphosphate by thrombin

The ability of several putative inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) to block dioctanoylglycerol (DC8)-induced phosphorylation of a 47 kDa protein (a recognized substrate for PKC) in human platelets was investigated. Staurosporine (1 microM) caused complete inhibition of phosphorylation, whereas the other reagents were either inactive (polymyxin B) or gave only partial inhibition (C-1, H-7, tamoxifen). Staurosporine (1 microM) fully inhibited the phosphorylation of the 47 kDa protein in platelets challenged with thrombin, but also inhibited the phosphorylation of a 20 kDa protein which is a substrate for myosin light-chain kinase. The inhibition of both kinases by staurosporine was associated with the inhibition of thrombin-induced secretion of ATP and 5-hydroxytryptamine and a slowing of the aggregation response; staurosporine, however, had no effect on the formation of phosphatidic acid and inositol phosphates induced by thrombin. Staurosporine also reversed the inhibitory action of phorbol esters on thrombin-induced formation of phosphatidic acid. These data are consistent with a role for these two kinases in secretion and aggregation (although there must be additional control signals, since aggregation was only slowed, not inhibited), but suggest that neither kinase is involved in the regulation of phosphoinositide metabolism. This latter conclusion contradicts previous observations that the activation of PKC by phorbol esters or membrane-permeable diacylglycerols alters the apparent activity of both phospholipase C and inositol trisphosphatase. Possible explanations for this discrepancy are discussed.

Endothelium-derived relaxant factor inhibits platelet activation

Experiments were designed to investigate whether platelet activation is modulated by endothelium-derived relaxant factor (EDRF) which has been shown to induce vascular smooth muscle relaxation by direct stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase. EDRF was released from cultured bovine endothelial cells, grown on microcarrier beads, by stimulation with thimerosal in the presence of indomethacin. EDRF had no effect on the intracellular free calcium concentration (Cai2+, measured with the fluorescent indicator indo-1) of resting washed human platelets but significantly attenuated the thrombin-induced rise of Cai2+ from 896 +/- 99 (SEM) to 509 +/- 48 nmol/l. EDRF significantly increased platelet cyclic GMP levels from 0.25 +/- 0.04 to 2.5 +/- 0.4 pmol/10(8) platelets and reduced the thrombin-induced aggregation to 23 +/- 3% of control. EDRF had no effect on Cai2+, cyclic GMP or aggregation after a 3 min storage interval, but superoxide dismutase (shown to increase stability of the labile factor) significantly augmented the EDRF effects on Cai2+. The antiaggregatory potency of EDRF was completely abolished in the presence of hemoglobin. The results characterize EDRF as a potent cyclic GMP-dependent antiaggregatory factor which may act synergistically in vivo with the cyclic AMP-dependent inhibitory effect of prostacyclin.

Vasodilator-stimulated protein phosphorylation in platelets is mediated by cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases

Vasodilators such as sodium nitroprusside, nitroglycerin and various prostaglandins are capable of inhibiting platelet aggregation associated with an increase of either cGMP or cAMP. In our studies with intact platelets, prostaglandin E1 and sodium nitroprusside stimulated the phosphorylation of several proteins which could be distinguished from proteins known to be phosphorylated by a calmodulin-regulated protein kinase or by protein kinase C. Prostaglandin E1 (10 microM) or dibutyryl cAMP (2 mM) stimulated the phosphorylation of proteins with apparent relative molecular masses, Mr, of 240,000, 68,000, 50,000, and 22,000 in intact platelets. These proteins were also phosphorylated in response to low concentrations (1-2 microM) of cAMP in a particulate fraction of platelets. In intact platelets, sodium nitroprusside (100 microM) and the 8-bromo derivative of cGMP (2 mM) increased the phosphorylation of one protein of Mr 50,000 which was also phosphorylated in response to low concentrations (1-2 microM) of cGMP in platelet membranes. An additional protein (Mr 24,000) appeared to be phosphorylated to a lesser degree in intact platelets by prostaglandin E1 and sodium nitroprusside. Since the phosphorylation of the protein of Mr 50,000 was stimulated both in intact platelets by cyclic-nucleotide-elevating agents and cyclic nucleotide analogs, as well as in platelet membranes by cyclic nucleotides, this phosphoprotein was analyzed by limited proteolysis, tryptic fingerprinting and phosphoamino acid analysis. These experiments indicated that the 50-kDa proteins phosphorylated by sodium nitroprusside and prostaglandin E1 were identical, and that the peptide of the 50-kDa protein phosphorylated by both agents was also the same as the peptide derived from the 50-kDa protein phosphorylated in platelet membranes by cGMP- and cAMP-dependent protein kinases, respectively. Regulation of protein phosphorylation mediated by cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases may be the molecular mechanism by which those vasodilators, capable of increasing either cAMP or cGMP, inhibit platelet aggregation.

A phorbol ester inhibits the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor

The effect of the phorbol ester phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDB), an activator of protein kinase C, on endothelium-dependent relaxation was studied in noradrenaline-constricted isolated aortic ring preparations of the rabbit. Endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine or substance P was inhibited by PDB (greater than or equal to 10(-7) M). Endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 (7.5 X 10(-8) and 10(-7) M) was unaffected by PDB (to 10(-6) M). The mechanical responses to acetylcholine or sodium nitroprusside in endothelium-denuded rings were not altered by PDB (to 10(-6) M). The results suggest a role for protein kinase C in receptor-mediated EDRF release mechanisms.