Age-associated decrease in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and diacylglycerol generation by 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 in rat intestine

The photo-protective role of vitamin D in the microalga Emiliania huxleyi

An essential interaction between sunlight and eukaryotes involves vitamin D production through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While extensively studied in vertebrates, the role of vitamin D in non-animal eukaryotes like microalgae remains unclear. Here, we investigate the potential involvement of vitamin D in the UV-triggered response of Emiliania huxleyi, a microalga inhabiting shallow ocean depths that are exposed to UV. Our results show that E. huxleyi produces vitamin D2 and D3 in response to UV. We further demonstrate that E. huxleyi responds to external administration of vitamin D at the transcriptional level, regulating protective mechanisms that are also responsive to UV. Our data reveal that vitamin D addition enhances algal photosynthetic performance while reducing harmful reactive oxygen species buildup. This study contributes to understanding the function of vitamin D in E. huxleyi and its role in non-animal eukaryotes, as well as its potential importance in marine ecosystems.

Age-related changes in the response of intestinal cells to 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3

The hormonally active form of vitamin D(3), 1α,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3), acts in intestine, its major target tissue, where its actions are of regulatory and developmental importance: regulation of intracellular calcium through modulation of second messengers and activation of mitogenic cascades leading to cell proliferation. Several causes have been postulated to modify the hormone response in intestinal cells with ageing, among them, alterations of vitamin D receptor (VDR) levels and binding sites, reduced expression of G-proteins and hormone signal transduction changes. The current review summarizes the actual knowledge regarding the molecular and biochemical basis of age-impaired 1α,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) receptor-mediated signaling in intestinal cells. A fundamental understanding why the hormone functions are impaired with age will enhance our knowledge of its importance in intestinal cell physiology.

Age-related alteration of 1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3-dependent activation of p38 MAPK in rat intestinal cells

In intestinal cells, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) (1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)) regulates gene expression via the specific intracellular vitamin D receptor and induces fast non-transcriptional responses involving stimulation of transmembrane signal transduction pathways. In the present study, we analyzed, for the first time, alterations in p38 MAPK response to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in rat enterocytes with ageing. In enterocytes from young rats, the hormone increased, in a time- and dose-dependent fashion, the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, peaking at 3 min (+2-fold). Basal levels of p38 MAPK phosphorylation were lower in enterocytes from old rats and the hormone response was greatly diminished (+0.5-fold at 3 min). p38 MAPK phosphorylation impairment in old animals was not related to significant changes of the kinase protein expression and do not explain the decreased response to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Extracellular and intracellular Ca(2+) chelation or c-Src pharmacological inhibition suppressed hormone activation of p38 MAPK in both, young and aged rats, demonstrating that Ca(2+) and the non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Src are required for full activation of p38 MAPK in cells stimulated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Two other vitamin D(3) metabolites, 25(OH)D(3) and 24,25(OH)(2)D(3, )also enhanced p38 phosphorylation, and to a similar extent than 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), an ability that is lost with ageing. Enterocyte exposure to the hormone also resulted in the rapid induction of c-fos protein (peaking at 5 min, +3-fold) and to a greater extent than that of mRNA induction. With ageing, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent increase of c-fos protein level was diminished, but c-fos mRNA expression was not different from young animals. Impairment of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activation of p38 MAPK upon ageing and abnormal hormone regulation of the c-fos oncoprotein synthesis may affect intestinal cell function.

Rapid modulation of Ca2+ uptake in human jejunal enterocytes

The active metabolite of D vitamin, 1,25(OH)2D3, has been suggested to promote acute uptake of calcium through the intestinal lining in cell lines and murine models. In this study, the effects of D vitamin on the cytoplasmic Ca2+ of single human jejunal enterocytes, obtained with LOC-I-GUT technique, was analyzed in vivo in a fluorometric system using fura-2 as the Ca2+-sensing probe. Vitamin-promoted acute Ca2+ influx exhibited dual kinetics, indicating initial release from intracellular Ca2+ pools and fast entry from the extracellular space. Furthermore, providing a chemical clamp of membrane potential close to 0 mV did not activate voltage-sensitive calcium channels in the cellular membrane, neither was the hormone-induced Ca2+ influx affected by verapamil. This advocates that voltage-operated channels like L-type Ca2+ channels do not participate in the process of Ca2+ uptake. In fact, the existence of calcium-release-activated-calcium channels (I(CRAC)) was implied by the findings that irreversible depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin promoted Ca2+ entry. In the thapsigargin-treated enterocytes, D vitamin lost its ability to promote calcium entry indicating an important role for intracellular store-operated Ca2+ stores in the acute effects of 1,25(OH)2D3.

Age-related changes in the response of intestinal cells to parathyroid hormone

The concept of the role(s) of parathyroid hormone (PTH), has expanded from that on acting on the classical target tissues, bone and kidney, to the intestine where its actions are of regulatory and developmental importance: regulation of intracellular calcium through modulation of second messengers and, activation of mitogenic cascades leading to cell proliferation. Several causes have been postulated to modify the hormone response in intestinal cells with ageing, among them, alterations of PTH receptor (PTHR1) binding sites, reduced expression of G proteins and hormone signal transduction changes. The current review summarizes the actual knowledge regarding the molecular and biochemical basis of age-impaired PTH receptor-mediated signaling in intestinal cells. A fundamental understanding of why PTH functions are impaired with age will enhance our understanding of its importance in intestinal cell physiology.

1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and parathyroid hormone (PTH) signaling in rat intestinal cells: activation of cytosolic PLA2

In the current study, we have probed the role of cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) activity in the cellular response to the calciotropic hormones, 1alpha,25,dihydroxy-vitamin D(3) [1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)] and PTH. Stimulation of rat enterocytes with either hormone, increased release of arachidonic acid (AA) 3H-AA] one-two fold in a concentration and time-dependent manner. The effect of either hormone on enterocytes was totally reduced by preincubation with the intracellular Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA-AM (5 microM), suggesting that the release of AA following cell exposure to the calciotropic hormones occurs mainly through a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism involving activation of Ca(2+)-dependent cPLA2. Calciotropic homone stimulation of rat intestinal cells increases cPLA2 phosphorylation (three to four fold). This effect was decreased by PD 98059 (20 microM), a MAP kinase inhibitor, indicating that this action is, in part, mediated through activation of the MAP kinases ERK 1 and ERK2. Enterocytes exposure to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) (1nM) or PTH (10 nM) also resulted in P-cPLA2 translocation from cytosol to nuclei and membrane fractions, where phospholipase subtrates reside. Collectively, these data suggest that PTH and 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activate in duodenal cells, a Ca(2+)-dependent cytosolic PLA2 and attendant arachidonic acid release and that this activation requieres prior stimulation of intracellular ERK1/2. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and PTH modulation of cPLA2 activity may change membrane fluidity and permeability and thereby affecting intestinal cell membrane function.

Tyrosine phosphorylation signalling dependent on 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 in rat intestinal cells: effect of ageing

In intestinal cells, as in other target cells, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) elicits long-term and short-term responses which involve genomic and non-genomic mode of actions, respectively. There is evidence indicating that activation of tyrosine phosphorylation pathways may participate in the responses induced by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) through its non-genomic mechanism. In this study we have evaluated the involvement of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in the tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCgamma and MAPK (ERK1/2) in enterocytes from young (3 months) and aged (24 months) rats. Immunochemical analysis revealed that the hormone stimulates PLCgamma tyrosine phosphorylation in young rat enterocytes. Hormone effect on PLCgamma is rapid, peaking at 2 min (+100%), is dose-dependent (10(-10) to 10(-8)M) and decreases with ageing. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) also induces the phosphorylation and activation of the mitogen-activated-protein kinases ERK1 and ERK2, effect which was evident at 1 min (three-fold) and reached a maximum at 2 min (six-fold). Hormone-dependent ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation and activity is greatly reduced in enterocytes from old rats. In both, young and aged animals, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-induced PLCgamma and ERK1/2 phosphorylation was effectively suppressed by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein (100 uM) and suppressed to a great extent by PP1, an inhibitor of c-Src kinases. LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3 kinase (PI3K), enzyme with an important role in mitogenesis, did not affect hormone-dependent ERK1/2 phosphorylation, indicating that PI3K is not involved in 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-induced MAPK activation. In agreement with this data, enzyme activity assays and tyrosine phosphorylation of the regulatory subunit (p85) of PI3K showed that the hormone has no effect on the enzyme activity in rat enterocytes. Taken together, the present study suggest that in intestinal cells, tyrosine phosphorylation is an important mechanism of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) involved in PLCgamma and MAPK regulation and that this mechanism is impair with ageing.

Calcitriol in cancer treatment: From the lab to the clinic

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), the most active metabolite of vitamin D, has significant antineoplastic activity in preclinical models. Several mechanisms of activity have been proposed. These include inhibition of proliferation associated with cell cycle arrest and, in some models, differentiation, reduction in invasiveness and angiogenesis, and induction of apoptosis. Proposed mechanisms differ between tumor models and experimental conditions, and no unifying hypothesis about the mechanism of antineoplastic activity has emerged. Synergistic and/or additive effects with cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer drugs have been reported. Significantly supraphysiological concentrations of calcitriol are required for antineoplastic effects. Such concentrations are not achievable in patients when calcitriol is dosed daily due to predictable hypercalcemia and hypercalcuria; however, phase I trials have demonstrated that intermittent dosing allows substantial dose escalation and has produced potentially therapeutic peak calcitriol concentrations. Recently, a phase II study reported encouraging levels of activity for the combination of high-dose calcitriol and docetaxel administered on a weekly schedule in patients with androgen-independent prostate cancer. This regimen is now under study in a placebo-controlled randomized trial in androgen-independent prostate cancer and in phase II studies in several other tumor types. Further work is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of antineoplastic activity and optimal clinical applications of calcitriol in cancer.

Membrane actions of vitamin D metabolites 1?,25(OH)2D3 and 24R,25(OH)2D3 are retained in growth plate cartilage cells from vitamin D receptor knockout mice

1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulates rat growth plate chondrocytes via nuclear vitamin D receptor (1,25-nVDR) and membrane VDR (1,25-mVDR) mechanisms. To assess the relationship between the receptors, we examined the membrane response to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in costochondral cartilage cells from wild type VDR(+/+) and VDR(-/-) mice, the latter lacking the 1,25-nVDR and exhibiting type II rickets and alopecia. Methods were developed for isolation and culture of cells from the resting zone (RC) and growth zone (GC, prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic zones) of the costochondral cartilages from wild type and homozygous knockout mice. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect on [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation in VDR(-/-) GC cells, but it increased [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation in VDR(+/+) cells. Proteoglycan production was increased in cultures of both VDR(-/-) and VDR(+/+) cells, based on [(35)S]-sulfate incorporation. These effects were partially blocked by chelerythrine, which is a specific inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), indicating that PKC-signaling was involved. 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) caused a 10-fold increase in PKC specific activity in VDR(-/-), and VDR(+/+) GC cells as early as 1 min, supporting this hypothesis. In contrast, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) had no effect on PKC activity in RC cells isolated from VDR(-/-) or VDR(+/+) mice and neither 1beta,25(OH)(2)D(3) nor 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) affected PKC in GC cells from these mice. Phospholipase C (PLC) activity was also increased within 1 min in GC chondrocyte cultures treated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). As noted previously for rat growth plate chondrocytes, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) mediated its increases in PKC and PLC activities in the VDR(-/-) GC cells through activation of phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)). These responses to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) were blocked by antibodies to 1,25-MARRS, which is a [(3)H]-1,25(OH)(2)D(3) binding protein identified in chick enterocytes. 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulated PKC in VDR(-/-) and VDR(+/+) RC cells. Wild type RC cells responded to 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) with an increase in PKC, whereas treatment of RC cells from mice lacking a functional 1,25-nVDR caused a time-dependent decrease in PKC between 6 and 9 min. 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3) dependent PKC was mediated by phospholipase D, but not by PLC, as noted previously for rat RC cells treated with 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3). These results provide definitive evidence that there are two distinct receptors to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)-dependent regulation of DNA synthesis in GC cells requires the 1,25-nVDR, although other physiological responses to the vitamin D metabolite, such as proteoglycan sulfation, involve regulation via the 1,25-mVDR.

Effect of growth and maturation on membrane-initiated actions of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3?II: Calcium transport, receptor kinetics, and signal transduction in intestine of female chickens

We recently reported (Larsson and Nemere [2003]: Endocrinology 144:1726) the effects of growth and maturation on 1,25(OH)2D3-membrane initiated effects in the intestine of male chickens. Here we extend our observations to studies on females with two stages of high calcium demand: growth (7-14 weeks) and egg laying (28-58 weeks). The rapid stimulatory effect of 130 pM 1,25(OH)2D3 on calcium transport was assessed as a physiological response in perfused duodena of 7-, 14-, 28-, and 58-week-old chickens, and determined to be 308%, 184%, 170%, and 153%, respectively, of corresponding controls after 40 min. Saturation analyses of [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 binding to nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) indicated an absence of cooperative binding, no changes in dissociation constant (Kd) with age, and an increase in maximum binding capacity (Bmax) between 7-week birds and older age groups. Analyses of saturable binding of [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 to the membrane associated rapid response steroid binding protein (1,25D3-MARRS bp) in basal lateral membranes (BLM), indicated cooperative binding, and an increase in both Bmax and Kd with age. No changes in the age-related expression of 1,25D3-MARRS bp were found, as judged by Western analyses, suggesting that a shift in ligand binding to lower affinity membrane components accounted for the increase in calculated Bmax. Basal levels of protein kinase C (PKC) activity decreased with age, as did hormone enhancement of activity. Basal levels of protein kinase A (PKA) activity remained constant with age, while the magnitude of hormone stimulation increased. Comparison of dose-response curves for ion transport and kinase activities in 7-week chicks suggested that PKC mediates phosphate transport while PKA mediates calcium transport. Thus, the age-related loss of calcium transport is most likely related to loss of PKC-mediated phosphate transport.

1alpha,25(OH)2D3 causes a rapid increase in phosphatidylinositol-specific PLC-beta activity via phospholipase A2-dependent production of lysophospholipid

1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activates protein kinase C (PKC) in rat growth plate chondrocytes via mechanisms involving phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) and phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)). The purpose of this study was to determine if 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) activates PI-PLC directly or through a PLA(2)-dependent mechanism. We determined which PLC isoforms are present in the growth plate chondrocytes, and determined which isoform(s) of PLC is(are) regulated by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Inhibitors and activators of PLA(2) were used to assess the inter-relationship between these two phospholipid-signaling pathways. PI-PLC activity in lysates of prehypertrophic and upper hypertrophic zone (growth zone) cells that were incubated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), was increased within 30s with peak activity at 1-3 min. PI-PLC activity in resting zone cells was unaffected by 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). 1beta,25(OH)(2)D(3), 24R,25(OH)(2)D(3), actinomycin D and cycloheximide had no effect on PLC in lysates of growth zone cells. Thus, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulation of PI-PLC enzyme activity is stereospecific, cell maturation-dependent, and nongenomic. PLA(2)-activation (mastoparan or melittin) increased PI-PLC activity to the same extent as 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3); PLA(2)-inhibition (quinacrine, oleyloxyethylphosphorylcholine (OEPC), or AACOCF(3)) reduced the effect of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). Neither arachidonic acid (AA) nor its metabolites affected PI-PLC. In contrast, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) activated PI-PLC (LPE>LPC). 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) stimulated PI-PLC and PKC activities via Gq; GDPbetaS inhibited activity, but pertussis toxin did not. RT-PCR showed that the cells express PLC-beta1a, PLC-beta1b, PLC-beta3 and PLC-gamma1 mRNA. Antibodies to PLC-beta1 and PLC-beta3 blocked the 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) effect; antibodies to PLC-delta and PLC-gamma did not. Thus, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) regulates PLC-beta through PLA(2)-dependent production of lysophospholipid.

Effect of ageing in the early biochemical signals elicited by PTH in intestinal cells

In previous work, we have demonstrated that rPTH(1-34) increases cytoplasmic calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in isolated rat enterocytes. In the present study, we have identified the sources of PTH-mediated increase in [Ca(2+)](I) and the implication of Ca(2+) on hormone early signals in enterocytes isolated from young (3-month-old) and aged (24-month-old) rats. In young enterocytes, PTH raised [Ca(2+)](i) in a dose-dependent manner (1 pM-100 nM). In cells from aged rats, hormone concentrations higher than physiological (>/=1 nM) were required to observe significant increases in [Ca(2+)](i). Phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitors blocked the initial acute elevation of the [Ca(2+)](i) biphasic response to PTH of young enterocytes while in old cells, no effects were observed. The voltage-dependent calcium-channel blocker (VDCC), nitrendipine, suppressed PTH-dependent changes of the sustained [Ca(2+)](i) phase in young and aged animals. In this study, we analysed, for the first time, alterations in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) activity and response to PTH in rat enterocytes with ageing. Basal PI3K activity was significantly modified by ageing. Acute treatment with 10(-8) M PTH increased enzyme activity, with a maximun at 2 min (+3-fold) in young rats and only elevated by less than 1-fold basal PI3K activity in aged animals. Hormone-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of p85alpha, the regulatory subunit of PI3K, as well as the phosphorylation on Thr(308) of its downstream effector Akt/PKB was evident in enterocytes from 3-month-old rats, whereas it was greatly reduced in the cells from 24-month-old animals. Intracellular Ca(2+) chelation (BAPTA-AM, 5 microM) affected the tyrosine phosphorylation of p85alpha and inhibited PTH-dependent PI3K activation by 75% in young rats and completely abolished the enzyme activity in aged animals, demonstrating that Ca(2+) is required for full activation of PI3K in enterocytes stimulated with PTH. The Thr phosphorylation of PI3K downeffector, Akt/PKB, was also fully dependent on Ca(2+). Taken together, these results suggest that PTH regulation of enterocyte [Ca(2+)](i) involves Ca(2+) mobilization from IP(3)-sensitive stores and the influx of the cation from the extracellular milieu, the former pathway being blunted during ageing. The data also indicates a positive role for intracellular calcium in one of the early signals of PTH in rat enterocytes, the activation of PI3K, and that hormone regulation of PI3K activity and Akt/PKB phosphorylation on Thr(308) is impaired with ageing.

Vitamin D and systemic cancer: is this relevant to malignant melanoma?

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3[1,25(OH)2D3] is a well-known potent regulator of cell growth and differentiation and there is recent evidence of an effect on cell death, tumour invasion and angiogenesis, which makes it a candidate agent for cancer regulation. The classical synthetic pathway of 1,25(OH)2D3 involves 25- and 1 alpha-hydroxylation of vitamin D3, in the liver and kidney, respectively, of absorbed or skin-synthesized vitamin D3. There is recent focus on the importance in growth control of local metabolism of 1,25(OH)2D3, which is a function of local tissue synthetic hydroxylases and particularly the principal catabolizing enzyme, 24-hydroxylase. The classical signalling pathway of 1,25(OH)2D3 employs the vitamin D nuclear receptor (VDR), which is a transcription factor for 1,25(OH)2D3 target genes. Effects of this pathway include inhibition of cellular growth and invasion. Cytoplasmic signalling pathways are increasingly being recognized, which similarly may regulate growth and differentiation but also apoptosis. 1,25(OH)2D3 has a major inhibitory effect on the G1/S checkpoint of the cell cycle by upregulating the cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors p27 and p21, and by inhibiting cyclin D1. Indirect mechanisms include upregulation of transforming growth factor-beta and downregulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor. 1,25(OH)2D3 may induce apoptosis either indirectly through effects on the insulin-like growth receptor and tumour necrosis factor-alpha or more directly via the Bcl-2 family system, the ceramide pathway, the death receptors (e.g. Fas) and the stress-activated protein kinase pathways (Jun N terminal kinase and p38). Inhibition of tumour invasion and metastasis potential has been demonstrated and mechanisms include inhibition of serine proteinases, metalloproteinases and angiogenesis. The lines of evidence for an effect of vitamin D3 in systemic cancer are the laboratory demonstration of relevant effects on cellular growth, differentiation, apoptosis, malignant cell invasion and metastasis; epidemiological findings of an association of the occurrence and outcome of cancers with derangements of vitamin D3/1,25(OH)2D3 and the association of functional polymorphisms of the VDR with the occurrence of certain cancers. In addition, vitamin D3 analogues are being developed as cancer chemotherapy agents. There is accumulating evidence that the vitamin D3/1,25(OH)2D3/VDR axis is similarly important in malignant melanoma (MM). MM cells express the VDR, and the antiproliferative and prodifferentiation effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 have been shown in cultured melanocytes, MM cells and MM xenografts. Recently, an inhibitory effect on the spread of MM cells has been demonstrated, low serum levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 have been reported in MM patients and the VDR polymorphisms have been shown to be associated with both the occurrence and outcome of MM. The relationship between solar irradiation and MM is more complex than for the systemic cancers. As in other cancers, there is evidence of a protective effect of vitamin D3 in MM, but ultraviolet radiation, which is a principal source of vitamin D3, is mutagenic. Further work is necessary on the influence of serum vitamin D3 levels on the occurrence and prognosis of MM, the effects of sun protection measures on serum vitamin D3 levels in temperate climates and epidemiological studies on geographical factors and skin type on the prognosis of MM. Meanwhile, it would seem mandatory to ensure an adequate vitamin D3 status if sun exposure were seriously curtailed, certainly in relation to carcinoma of breast, prostate and colon and probably also MM.

Age-related changes in membrane lipid composition, fluidity and respiratory burst in rat peritoneal neutrophils

The O2*(-) production has been studied in rat peritoneal neutrophils of different age (3, 12 and 24 months), in order to analyse whether the neutrophil respiratory burst is modified with increasing age. To stimulate NADPH oxidase, the enzyme responsible for the respiratory burst, two stimuli that act in different way have been used: phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (N-FMLP). Production of O2*(-) decreased with age in neutrophils stimulated with N-FMLP (about 40%), but not in the stimulated with PMA. No difference in NADPH oxidase activity was found with age. The NADPH is supplied to the respiratory burst mainly by the pentose phosphate shunt. A progressive and significant decrease in the two most important enzymes of this route, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, was detected as a function of age; in spite of this reduction, the NADPH produced by cells from old animals seems not limiting for the O2*(-) production. The N-FMLP-induced decrease in the O2*(-) production may be related to the age-dependent increase in the membrane fluidity observed. A decline in the cholesterol/phospholipid ratio and a rise in the total polyunsaturated fatty acids content were found, that correlated well with the increase in the membrane fluidity. The decrease (50%) of phosphatidylinositols in the 24-month-old animals may be also related to the age-impairment in the respiratory burst found after stimulation with N-FMLP. These studies suggest that the age-related alterations in neutrophil may result in diminished neutrophil function and increased susceptibility to infection in the ageing.

1,25(OH)(2)-vitamin D(3) affects the subcellular distribution of protein kinase C isoenzymes in rat duodenum: influence of aging

We have previously shown that the steroid hormone 1, 25-dihydroxy-vitamin D(3) [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)] stimulates total cell protein kinase C (PKC) activity in rat duodenum, an effect that is severely impaired in old animals. We further examined the role of 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) on PKC as it relates to aging by measuring hormone-induced changes in subcellular localization of PKC activity and isoenzymes in duodenal mucosae from young (three-month-old) and aged (24-month-old) rats. Short treatment of duodenum with 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) (0.1 nM, 1 min) increased membrane-associated PKC activity, whereas it decreased the activity in the cytosol of young rats but was without significant effect in aged animals. Furthermore, the ability to translocate was present in young animals after a short treatment with the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate (TPA; 100 nM) or dioctanoyl-glycerol (50 microM), whereas the ability was absent in aged rats, suggesting that PKC function was impaired with aging independent of agonist stimulation. The expression of specific PKC isoenzymes and changes in their subcellular distribution after short exposure of the duodenum to the hormone were determined. Western blot analysis of total homogenates using antibodies to various PKC isoforms allowed detection of PKC alpha, beta, and delta. The expression of the straight theta and the zeta isoforms was in addition demonstrated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The pattern of isoenzymes present in the duodenum was unaffected by aging. In young rats, 1, 25(OH)(2)D(3) translocates PKC alpha, beta, and delta to the membrane and nucleus; however, no translocation of PKC isoforms was observed in 24-month-old animals in response to the hormone. In summary, in rat duodenum, 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) modulation of PKC activity and isoenzyme subcellular distribution are impaired with aging and may explain age-induced alterations in the intestinal processes under the control of the hormone.

Calreticulin couples calcium release and calcium influx in integrin-mediated calcium signaling

The engagement of integrin alpha7 in E63 skeletal muscle cells by laminin or anti-alpha7 antibodies triggered transient elevations in the intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration that resulted from both inositol triphosphate-evoked Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores and extracellular Ca(2+) influx through voltage-gated, L-type Ca(2+) channels. The extracellular domain of integrin alpha7 was found to associate with both ectocalreticulin and dihydropyridine receptor on the cell surface. Calreticulin appears to also associate with cytoplasmic domain of integrin alpha7 in a manner highly dependent on the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration. It appeared that intracellular Ca(2+) release was a prerequisite for Ca(2+) influx and that calreticulin associated with the integrin cytoplasmic domain mediated the coupling of between the Ca(2+) release and Ca(2+) influx. These findings suggest that calreticulin serves as a cytosolic activator of integrin and a signal transducer between integrins and Ca(2+) channels on the cell surface.

Effect of aging on the mechanisms of PTH-induced calcium influx in rat intestinal cells

We have investigated the effects of aging on parathyroid hormone (PTH) modulation of intracellular calcium homeostasis and their relationship to signal transduction pathways in isolated rat duodenal cells (enterocytes). PTH (10(-8)-10(-9) M) increased enterocyte (45)Ca(2+) influx and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) to a greater extent (twofold and 50%, respectively) in aged (24 months) than in young (3 months) animals. The [Ca(2+)](i) response of old cells to the hormone was slower, lacking the early phase of changes in cytosolic Ca(2+). Ca(2+) influx induced by PTH was prevented by the protein kinase A antagonist Rp-cAMPS in both young and aged enterocytes, whereas neomycin and compound U73122, inhibitors of PLC-catalyzed phosphoinositide hydrolysis, abolished hormone-dependent Ca(2+) influx in young but had no effect on aged cells. Higher basal adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity and cAMP content were detected in old enterocytes. PTH increased the absolute levels of cAMP in aged cells and AC activity of microsomes isolated therefrom to a greater extent (>/= twofold) than in young enterocytes/membranes. In young cells, the hormone also induced a rapid and transient release of inositoltrisphosphate (IP(3)) and diacylglycerol (neomycin-sensitive) at 45 sec, and a delayed phase of DAG at 5 min (neomycin-insensitive). The early formation of IP(3) and DAG was blunted in aged animals. These results suggest that both the PLC and adenylyl cyclase cascades are involved in PTH stimulation of Ca(2+) influx in duodenal cells. During aging, however, only the cAMP pathway is operative, mediating a potentiation of the effects of the hormone. Additional studies are required to establish the relative role of PTH-dependent messenger systems in the regulation of intestinal calcium absorption and age-related abnormalities.

Nongenomic effects of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3)

The hormonally active form of vitamin D, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3), is the key molecule of the vitamin D endocrine system, which produces biological effects in about 30 target cell systems. Growing experimental evidence supports the hypothesis that these biological effects can be generated both by a signal transduction mechanism involving a nuclear receptor (nVDR) that modulates gene transcription, and via a nongenomic receptor located in the plasma membrane (mVDR), which modulates a complex signaling system involving the rapid opening of Ca(2+) channels. Some data reviewed herein also indicate that crosstalk between genomic and nongenomic pathways operates in several cell types, and suggest that the physiological role of the rapid, nongenomic actions might involve the regulation of hormone-mediated gene activation.

Identification of a membrane receptor for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 which mediates rapid activation of protein kinase C

This paper is the first definitive report demonstrating a unique membrane receptor for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) which mediates the rapid and nongenomic regulation of protein kinase C (PKC). Previous studies have shown that 1,25(OH)2D3 exerts rapid effects on chondrocyte membranes which are cell maturation-specific, do not require new gene expression, and do not appear to act via the traditional vitamin D receptor. We used antiserum generated to a [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 binding protein isolated from the basal lateral membrane of chick intestinal epithelium (Ab99) to determine if rat costochondral resting zone (RC) or growth zone (GC) cartilage cells contain a similar protein and if cell maturation-dependent differences exist. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that both RC and GC cells express the protein, but levels are highest in GC. The binding protein is present in both plasma membranes and matrix vesicles and has a molecular weight of 66,000 Da. The 66 kDa protein in GC matrix vesicles has a Kd of 17.2 fmol/ml and Bmax of 124 fmol/mg of protein for [3H]1,25(OH)2D3. In contrast, the 66 kDa protein in RC matrix vesicles has a Kd of 27.7 fmol/ml and a Bmax of 100 fmol/mg of protein. Ab99 blocks the 1,25(OH)2D3-dependent increase in PKC activity in GC chondrocytes, indicating that the 1,25(OH)2D3-binding protein is indeed a receptor, linking ligand recognition to biologic function.

1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 signaling in chick enterocytes: enhancement of tyrosine phosphorylation and rapid stimulation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase

The steroid hormone 1alpha,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (1alpha,25(OH)2D3) generates biological responses in intestinal and other cells via both genomic and rapid, nongenomic signal transduction pathways. We examined the hypothesis that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 action in chick enterocytes may be linked to pathways involving tyrosine phosphorylation. Brief exposure of isolated chick enterocytes to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 demonstrated increased tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular proteins (antiphosphotyrosine immunoblots of whole cell lysates) with prominent bands at 42-44, 55-60, and 105-120 Kda. The 42-44 Kda bands comigrated with mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase (immunoblotting with anti-MAP kinase antibody) The response occurred within 30 s, peaked at 1 min, and was dose-dependent (0.01-10 nM), with maximal stimulation at 1 nM (three- to fivefold). This effect was specific for 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 since its metabolic precursors 25(OH)D3 and vitamin D3 did not increase MAP kinase tyrosine phosphorylation. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein, blocked 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of MAP kinase, while staurosporine, a PKC inhibitor, attenuated the hormone's effects by 30%. We have evaluated the ability of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 analogs, which have complete flexibility around the 6,7 carbon-carbon bond (6F) or which are locked in either the 6-s-cis (6C) or the 6-s-trans (6T) shape(s), to activate MAP kinase. Thus, two 6F and one 6C analog stimulated while one 6T analog did not stimulate MAP kinase tyrosine phosphorylation. In addition, 1beta,25(OH)2D3, a known antagonist of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3-mediated rapid responses, blocked the hormone effects on MAP kinase. We conclude that 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and analogs which can achieve the 6-s-cis shape (6F and 6C) can increase tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of MAP kinase in chick enterocytes.

Age-related loss of calcitriol stimulation of phosphoinositide hydrolysis in rat skeletal muscle

We have examined the effects in vitro of calcitriol [1,25(OH)2D3], the hormonal form of vitamin D3, on the breakdown of membrane phosphoinositides in skeletal muscle from young (3 months) and aged (24 months) rats. Calcitriol (10(-9) M) induced a rapid and transient release of IP3/inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol (DAG) from muscle slices/membranes prelabeled with [3H]myo-inositol and [3H]arachidonate, respectively. Inositol phosphate release was maximal at 15 s and then declined. The effects of hormone specificity exhibited as the closely related derivatives of vitamin D3, 25OHD3, 1alphaOHD3 and 24,25(OH)2D3 did not alter muscle inositol phosphate levels. The stimulation of DAG was biphasic, the early phase (15 s) being abolished by neomycin (0.5 mM), an inhibitor of phosphoinositide hydrolysis, similar to IP3 formation and consistent with a role of phospholipase C (PLC) in intracellular signal generation. Neomycin had no effect on the second DAG peak (2 min) induced by calcitriol, suggesting that the late phase of DAG formation is independent from the hydrolysis of phosphoinositides. Higher basal inositol phosphate and DAG levels were detected in muscle from aged rats thereby reducing the effects of the hormone on second messenger generation ( -80 and -60% for IP3 and DAG, respectively). Calcitriol stimulation of PLC was mimicked, in both young and old rats, by GTPgammaS, a non-hydrolyzable analogue of GTP, while GDPbetaS, a G protein inhibitor, suppressed the effect of the hormone. The early effects of calcitriol and GTPgammaS were not additive. Bordetella pertussis toxin abolished by 85% the effects of calcitriol on inositol phosphate release in young rats but was without effect in aged animals. These results demonstrate that calcitriol activates phosphoinositide-PLC in rat skeletal muscle by a mechanism which involves a pertussis-sensitive G protein and that the effects of the hormone are altered with ageing.

Influence of age on 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 activation of protein kinase C in rat duodenum

We have studied age-related changes in the non-genomic regulation of protein kinase C (PKC) by 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] and their role in 1,25(OH)2D3-dependent calcium uptake in the rat duodenum. Treatment of duodenal mucosae from 3 month-old (young) rats with hormone physiological concentrations (0.1 nM) induced an acute and transient stimulation of total tissue PKC activity which was maximal at 1 min (+80%). The responses were evidenced up to 10 nM 1,25(OH)2D3. The duodenum from 22 to 24 month old (aged) rats exhibited higher basal PKC activity which was not significantly modified after addition of the hormone. In the young duodenum PKC activation by 1,25(OH)2D3 was dependent on extracellular Ca2+ influx as it could be abolished to a great extent by EGTA and the Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil. In addition, the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 elicited a marked stimulation of duodenal mucosae PKC in young rats but was without effects in aged animals. 1,25(OH)2D3 increased the influx of 45Ca2+ in duodenal mucosae of young rats in a dose-(0.1-1 nM) and time-(1-10 min) dependent fashion. This response to the hormone was impaired in aged animals. Similarly as 1,25(OH)2D3, the PKC activator dioctanoylglycerol (DOG) rapidly (1-5 min) increased [45Ca2+] influx in duodena from young rats whereas the response to DOG was blunted in senescent animals. Furthermore, PKC inhibitors (bisindolylmaleimide, staurosporine and compound H7) abolished 1,25(OH)2D3 stimulation of Ca2+ uptake in the young duodenum. These results suggest that 1,25(OH)2D3 regulates PKC activity in the mammalian duodenum by a non-genomic mechanism which involves the rapid influx of extracellular Ca2+, and that activation of PKC, in turn, mediates hormone stimulation of intestinal Ca2+ uptake. The data also indicates that 1,25(OH)2D3 regulation of Ca2+ transport through the PKC messenger system is impaired with aging.