Thapsigargin-stimulated MAP kinase phosphorylation via CRAC channels and PLD activation: inhibitory action of docosahexaenoic acid

Effects of Simvastatin on RBL-2H3 Cell Degranulation

Hypercholesterolemia is a major complication of arteriosclerosis. Mast cells in arteriosclerosis plaques induce inflammatory reactions and promote arterial sclerosis. In this study, we evaluated the pharmacological effects of simvastatin (SV)-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors on the degranulation of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL)-2H3 cells, which are commonly used as mast cell models. SV significantly decreased the degranulation induced by three types of stimulation: antigen antibody reaction (Ag-Ab), thapsigargin (Tg) serosal endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor, and A23187 calcium ionophore. SV had a stronger inhibitory effect on degranulation induced by Ag-Ab stimulation than the other two stimulations. However, SV did not inhibit increase of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentrations. Mevalonate or geranylgeraniol co-treatment with SV completely prevented the inhibitory effect of SV on the degranulation induced by these stimulations. Immunoblotting results showed that SV inhibited protein kinase C (PKC) delta translocation induced by Ag-Ab but not by Tg or A23187. SV induced a reduction in active Rac1, and actin filament rearrangement. In conclusion, SV inhibits RBL-2H3 cell degranulation by inhibiting downstream signaling pathways, including the sequential degranulation pathway. These inhibitory effects were completely reversed by the addition of geranylgeraniol and might be induced by changes in the translocation of the small guanosine 5'-triphosphatase (GTPase) families Rab and Rho, which are related to vesicular transport PKC delta translocation and actin filament formation, respectively. These changes are caused by the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase by SV following the synthesis of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphates, which play important roles in the activation of small GTPases, Rab.

DHA induces Jurkat T-cell arrest in G2/M phase of cell cycle and modulates the plasma membrane expression of TRPC3/6 channels

We investigated whether docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a dietary n-3 fatty acid, modulates calcium (Ca²⁺) signaling and cell cycle progression in human Jurkat T-cells. Our study demonstrates that DHA inhibited Jurkat T-cell cycle progression by blocking their passage from S phase to G2/M phase. In addition, DHA decreased the plasma membrane expression of TRPC3 and TRPC6 calcium channels during T-cell proliferation. Interestingly, this fatty acid increased plasma membrane expression of TRPC6 after 24 h of mitogenic stimulation by phorbol-13-myristate-12-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin. These variations in the membrane expression of TRPC3 and TRPC6 channels were not directly correlated with the mRNA expression, indicating that it was a post-translational phenomenon. DHA increased free intracellular calcium concentrations, [Ca²⁺]i, via opening TRPC3 and TRPC6 channels. We conclude that the anti-proliferative effect of DHA might involve the modulation of TRPC3 and TRPC6 channels in human T-cells.

Calcium release-activated calcium channels and pain

Calcium release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels are unique among ion channels that are activated in response to depletion of intracellular calcium stores and are highly permeable to Ca²⁺ compared to other cations. CRAC channels mediate an important calcium signal for a wide variety of cell types and are well studied in the immune system. They have been implicated in a number of disorders such as immunodeficiency, musculosketal disorders and cancer. There is growing evidence showing that CRAC channels are expressed in the nervous system and are involved in pathological conditions including pain. This review summarizes the expression, distribution, and function of the CRAC channel family in the dorsal root ganglion, spinal cord and some brain regions, and discusses their functional significance in neurons and glial cells and involvement in nociception and chronic pain. Although further studies are needed to understand how these channels are activated under physiological conditions, the recent findings indicate that the CRAC channel Orai1 is an important player in pain modulation and could represent a new target for pathological pain.

Improvement of dexamethasone sensitivity by chelation of intracellular Ca2+ in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells through the prosurvival kinase ERK1/2 deactivation

Previous studies have demonstrated that glucocorticoid hormones, including dexamethasone, induced alterations in intracellular calcium homeostasis in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cells. However, the mechanism by which intracellular calcium homeostasis participates in dexamethasone sensitivity and resistance on ALL cells remains elusive. Here, we found that treatment of cells with dexamethasone resulted in increased intracellular calcium concentrations through store-operated calcium entry stimulation, which was curtailed by store-operated calcium channel blockers. We show that BAPTA-AM, an intracellular Ca2+ chelator, synergistically enhances dexamethasone lethality in two human ALL cell lines and in three primary specimens. This effect correlated with the inhibition of the prosurvival kinase ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Chelating intracellular calcium with Bapta-AM or inhibiting ERK1/2 with PD98059 significantly potentiated dexamethasone-induced mitochondrial membrane potential collapse, reactive oxygen species production, cytochrome c release, caspase-3 activity, and cell death. Moreover, we show that thapsigargin elevates intracellular free calcium ion level, and activates ERK1/2 signaling, resulting in the inhibition of dexamethasone-induced ALL cells apoptosis. Together, these results indicate that calcium-related ERK1/2 signaling pathway contributes to protect cells from dexamethasone sensitivity by limiting mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. This report provides a novel resistance pathway underlying the regulatory effect of dexamethasone on ALL cells.

Orai1 Plays a Crucial Role in Central Sensitization by Modulating Neuronal Excitability

Pathological pain is a common and debilitating condition that is often poorly managed. Central sensitization is an important mechanism underlying pathological pain. However, candidate molecules involved in central sensitization remain unclear. Store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) mediate important calcium signals in nonexcitable and excitable cells. SOCs have been implicated in a wide variety of human pathophysiological conditions, including immunodeficiency, occlusive vascular diseases, and cancer. However, the role of SOCs in CNS disorders has been relatively unexplored. Orai1, a key component of SOCs, is expressed in the human and rodent spinal cord dorsal horn, but its functional significance in dorsal horn neurons is poorly understood. Here we sought to explore a potential role of Orai1 in the modulation of neuronal excitability and A-type potassium channels involved in pain plasticity. Using both male and female Orai1 knock-out mice, we found that activation of Orai1 increased neuronal excitability and reduced A-type potassium channels via the protein kinase C-extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (PKC-ERK) pathway in dorsal horn neurons. Orai1 deficiency significantly decreased acute pain induced by noxious stimuli, nearly eliminated the second phase of formalin-induced nociceptive response, markedly attenuated carrageenan-induced ipsilateral pain hypersensitivity and abolished carrageenan-induced contralateral mechanical allodynia. Consistently, carrageenan-induced increase in neuronal excitability was abolished in the dorsal horn from Orai1 mutant mice. These findings uncover a novel signaling pathway involved in the pain process and central sensitization. Our study also reveals a novel link among Orai1, ERK, A-type potassium channels, and neuronal excitability.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Orai1 is a key component of store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) in many cell types. It has been implicated in such pathological conditions as immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, and cancer. However, the role of Orai1 in CNS disorders remains poorly understood. The functional significance of Orai1 in neurons is elusive. Here we demonstrate that activation of Orai1 modulates neuronal excitability and Kv4-containing A-type potassium channels via the protein kinase C-extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (PKC-ERK) pathway. Genetic knock-out of Orai1 nearly eliminates the second phase of formalin-induced pain and markedly attenuates carrageenan-induced pain hypersensitivity and neuronal excitability. These findings reveal a novel link between Orai1 and neuronal excitability and advance our understanding of central sensitization.

Econazole induces increases in free intracellular Ca2+ concentrations in human osteosarcoma cells

Econazole is an antifungal drug with different in vitro effects. However, econazole's effect on osteoblast like cells is unknown. In human MG63 osteosarcoma cells, the effect of econazole on intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) was explored by using fura-2. At a concentration of 0.1 μM, econazole started to cause a rise in [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner. Econazole-induced [Ca2+]i rise was reduced by 74% by removal of extracellular Ca2+. The econazole-induced Ca2+ influx was mediated via a nimodipine-sensitive pathway. In Ca2+ free medium, thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase, caused a [Ca2+]i rise, after which the increasing effect of econazole on [Ca2+]i was abolished. Pretreatment of cells with econazole to deplete Ca2+ stores totally prevented thapsigargin from releasing Ca2+. U73122, an inhibitor of phospholipase C, abolished histamine (an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate dependent Ca2+ mobilizer)-induced, but not econazoleinduced, [Ca2+]i rise. Econazole inhibited 76% of thapsigargin-induced store-operated Ca2+ entry. These findings suggest that in MG63 osteosarcoma cells, econazole increases [Ca2+]i by stimulating Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum via a phospholipase C-independent manner. In contrast, econazole acts as a potent blocker of store-operated Ca2+ entry.

Therapeutic potential of targeting IRES-dependent c-myc translation in multiple myeloma cells during ER stress

Protein translation is inhibited by the unfolded protein response (UPR)-induced eIF-2α phosphorylation to protect against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, we found additional inhibition of protein translation owing to diminished mTORC1 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex1) activity in ER-stressed multiple myeloma (MM) cells. However, c-myc protein levels and myc translation was maintained. To ascertain how c-myc was maintained, we studied myc IRES (internal ribosome entry site) function, which does not require mTORC1 activity. Myc IRES activity was upregulated in MM cells during ER stress induced by thapsigargin, tunicamycin or the myeloma therapeutic bortezomib. IRES activity was dependent on upstream MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) and MNK1 (MAPK-interacting serine/threonine kinase 1) signaling. A screen identified hnRNP A1 (A1) and RPS25 as IRES-binding trans-acting factors required for ER stress-activated activity. A1 associated with RPS25 during ER stress and this was prevented by an MNK inhibitor. In a proof of principle, we identified a compound that prevented binding of A1 to the myc IRES and specifically inhibited myc IRES activity in MM cells. This compound, when used alone, was not cytotoxic nor did it inhibit myc translation or protein expression. However, when combined with ER stress inducers, especially bortezomib, a remarkable synergistic cytotoxicity ensued with associated inhibition of myc translation and expression. These results underscore the potential for targeting A1-mediated myc IRES activity in MM cells during ER stress.

Identification of known drugs targeting the endoplasmic reticulum stress response

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a multifunctional organelle, plays a central role in cellular signaling, development, and stress response. Dysregulation of ER homeostasis has been associated with human diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, and diabetes. A broad spectrum of stressful stimuli including hypoxia as well as a variety of pharmacological agents can lead to the ER stress response. In this study, we have developed a stable ER stress reporter cell line that stably expresses a β-lactamase reporter gene under the control of the ER stress response element (ESRE) present in the glucose-regulated protein, 78 kDa (GRP78) gene promoter. This assay has been optimized and miniaturized into a 1536-well plate format. In order to identify clinically used drugs that induce ER stress response, we screened approximately 2800 drugs from the NIH Chemical Genomics Center Pharmaceutical Collection (NPC library) using a quantitative high-throughput screening (qHTS) platform. From this study, we have identified several known ER stress inducers, such as 17-AAG (via HSP90 inhibition), as well as several novel ER stress inducers such as AMI-193 and spiperone. The confirmed drugs were further studied for their effects on the phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), the X-box-binding protein (XBP1) splicing, and GRP78 gene expression. These results suggest that the ER stress inducers identified from the NPC library using the qHTS approach could shed new lights on the potential therapeutic targets of these drugs.

The mechanism of honokiol-induced intracellular Ca(2+) rises and apoptosis in human glioblastoma cells

Honokiol, an active constituent of oriental medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, caused Ca(2+) mobilization and apoptosis in different cancer cells. In vivo, honokiol crossed the blood-brain or -cerebrospinal fluid barrier, suggesting that it may be an effective drug for the treatment of brain tumors, including glioblastoma. This study examined the effect of honokiol on intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) and apoptosis in DBTRG-05MG human glioblastoma cells. Honokiol concentration-dependently induced a [Ca(2+)]i rise. The signal was decreased partially by removal of extracellular Ca(2+). Honokiol-triggered [Ca(2+)]i rise was not suppressed by store-operated Ca(2+) channel blockers (nifedipine, econazole, SK&F96365) and the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA), but was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor GF109203X. GF109203X-induced inhibition was not altered by removal of extracellular Ca(2+). In Ca(2+)-free medium, pretreatment with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) pump inhibitor thapsigargin (TG) or 2,5-di-tert-butylhydroquinone (BHQ) abolished honokiol-induced [Ca(2+)]i rise. Conversely, incubation with honokiol abolished TG or BHQ-induced [Ca(2+)]i rise. Inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC) with U73122 abolished honokiol-induced [Ca(2+)]i rise. Honokiol (20-80μM) reduced the cell viability, which was not reversed by prechelating cytosolic Ca(2+) with BAPTA-AM (1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid-acetoxymethyl ester). Honokiol (20-60μM) enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, released cytochrome c, and activated caspase-9/caspase-3. Together, honokiol induced a [Ca(2+)]i rise by inducing PLC-dependent Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca(2+) entry via PKC-dependent, non store-operated Ca(2+) channels. Moreover, honokiol activated the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis in DBTRG-05MG human glioblastoma cells.

Orai1-induced store-operated Ca(2+) entry enhances phospholipase activity and modulates canonical transient receptor potential channel 6 function in murine platelets

BACKGROUND

Orai1, the major store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) channel in platelets, is not only critical for enhancing diverse signaling pathways, but may also regulate receptor-operated Ca(2+) entry (ROCE). Dynamic coupling of the Orai1 signalosome to canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) has been suggested as an essential step in the activation of SOCE and ROCE. However, the functional significance of the biochemical interaction between Orai and TRPC isoforms remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to elucidate the role of Orai1 in diacylglycerol (DAG)-mediated ROCE.

METHODS

Trpc6(-/-) , Orai1(-/-) and Orai1(-/-) /Trpc6(-/-) mice were generated, and their platelets were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thapsigargin (TG)-induced SOCE was further reduced in Orai1(-/-) /Trpc6(-/-) platelets as compared with Orai1(-/-) platelets, thus revealing that TG-induced signaling pathways can activate TRPC6. Thapsigargin-induced SOCE leads to enhanced phospholipase C and D activity in wild-type platelets. The activity of both enzymes was significantly reduced in Orai1(-/-) platelets upon TG stimulation, whereas receptor-induced phospholipase activity was not affected. Furthermore, TG-induced and glycoprotein VI-mediated thromboxane A2 release was strongly dependent on Orai1-mediated SOCE.

CONCLUSION

The regulation of TRPC6 activity can occur independently of the physical interaction with Orai1. TRPC6 operates in crosstalk with Orai1 through Orai1-induced DAG production via phospholipase activation. Orai1-induced DAG production and thromboxane release amplify the second phase of Ca(2+) signaling in platelets.

Rapid identification of antifungal compounds against Exserohilum rostratum using high throughput drug repurposing screens

A recent large outbreak of fungal infections by Exserohilum rostratum from contaminated compounding solutions has highlighted the need to rapidly screen available pharmaceuticals that could be useful in therapy. The present study utilized two newly-developed high throughput assays to screen approved drugs and pharmaceutically active compounds for identification of potential antifungal agents. Several known drugs were found that have potent effects against E. rostratum including the triazole antifungal posaconazole. Posaconazole is likely to be effective against infections involving septic joints and may provide an alternative for refractory central nervous system infections. The anti-E. rostratum activities of several other drugs including bithionol (an anti-parasitic drug), tacrolimus (an immunosuppressive agent) and floxuridine (an antimetabolite) were also identified from the drug repurposing screens. In addition, activities of other potential antifungal agents against E. rostratum were excluded, which may avoid unnecessary therapeutic trials and reveals the limited therapeutic alternatives for this outbreak. In summary, this study has demonstrated that drug repurposing screens can be quickly conducted within a useful time-frame. This would allow clinical implementation of identified alternative therapeutics and should be considered as part of the initial public health response to new outbreaks or rapidly-emerging microbial pathogens.

Oleic acid versus linoleic and α-linolenic acid. different effects on Ca2+ signaling in rat thymocytes

BACKGROUND

Oleic acid is the principal fatty acid of olive oil composition and is reported to play a crucial role in its healthy aspects. However, the detailed mechanism of action is poorly understood.

AIMS

This study aims to elucidate the role of oleic acid in calcium signaling in rat thymocytes, in comparison to linoleic and linolenic acid.

METHODS

Fatty acids were applied to thymocytes isolated from wistar rats and loaded with Fura-2 to measure calcium signals.

RESULTS

The main results showed a concentration-dependent increase in [Ca(2+)](i) induced by the 3 fatty acids. Raising the number of unsaturations resulted in greater increases. Two different pathways contributed to the increase induced by the polyunsaturated fatty acids: an IP(3)- independent release from the thapsigargin-sensitive stores and an extracellular calcium entry by econazole and nifedipine-insensitive channels. However, the OA-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) seemed to be due mostly to the Ca(2+) recruited from the intracellular stores.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the fatty acids tested induce increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in rat thymocytes, with differences in close relation to the degree of unsaturation. Such differences could be responsible for their different physiological action.

Effects of eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation on immunoglobulin A nephropathy

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is purified from fish oil, attenuates inflammatory responses by decreasing eicosanoid and cytokine production. EPA reportedly improves renal survival in patients with immunoglobulin (Ig)A nephropathy; however, this is unconfirmed. We studied the effects of EPA on IgA nephropathy patients. Eighteen biopsy-confirmed IgA nephropathy patients (aged 31 +/- 3 years) were enrolled. The prognoses based on glomerular findings were good (N = 5), relatively poor (N = 12), and poor (N = 1). EPA was administered at 1.8 g/day for 12 months. Five biopsy-confirmed IgA nephropathy patients were enrolled as control subjects. Administration of other drugs used to treat IgA nephropathy was not changed. The estimated creatinine clearance (eCCr), serum creatinine (Cr) concentration, urinary protein creatinine ratio (U/P), and other clinical parameters were checked. In the EPA group, the Cr went from 0.8 +/- 0.2 mg/dL to 0.7 +/- 0.2 mg/dL after 12 months of EPA treatment, and the U/P went from 550 +/- 580 mg/g Cr to 330 +/- 920 mg/g Cr. The values did not differ significantly; however, Cr and U/P tended to improve, with no adverse effects from the EPA. The eCCr improved significantly (99 +/- 7-110 +/- 8 mL/min, P = 0.001) in the EPA group, but not in the control group (126 +/- 12-120 +/- 13, P > 0.05). The effect of EPA in patients with IgA nephropathy is not pronounced, but these results suggest that EPA is a safe and worthwhile supplement to the drugs used to treat this disease.

Regulatory activity of polyunsaturated fatty acids in T-cell signaling

n-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are considered to be authentic immunosuppressors and appear to exert beneficial effects with respect to certain immune-mediated diseases. In addition to promoting T-helper 1 (Th1) cell to T-helper 2 (Th2) cell effector T-cell differentiation, n-3 PUFA may also exert anti-inflammatory actions by inducing apoptosis in Th1 cells. With respect to mechanisms of action, effects range from the modulation of membrane receptors to gene transcription via perturbation of a number of second messenger cascades. In this review, the putative targets of anti-inflammatory n-3 PUFA, activated during early and late events of T-cell activation will be discussed. Studies have demonstrated that these fatty acids alter plasma membrane micro-organization (lipid rafts) at the immunological synapse, the site where T-cells and antigen-presenting cells (APC) form a physical contact for antigen initiated T-cell signaling. In addition, the production of diacylglycerol and the activation of different isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), calcium signaling, and nuclear translocation/activation of transcriptional factors, can be modulated by n-3 PUFA. Advantages and limitations of diverse methodologies to study the membrane lipid raft hypothesis, as well as apparent contradictions regarding the effect of n-3 PUFA on lipid rafts will be critically presented.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids in the modulation of T-cell signalling

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been shown to modulate immune responses. These agents, being considered as adjuvant immunosuppressants, have been used in the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms of action of n-3 PUFA-induced immunosuppressive effects are not well-understood. Since exogenous n-3 PUFA, under in vitro and in vivo conditions, are efficiently incorporated into T-cell plasma membranes, a number of recent studies have demonstrated that these agents may modulate T-cell signalling. In this review, the interactions of n-3 PUFA with the second messenger cascade initiated during early and late events of T-cell activation are discussed. We particularly focus on how these fatty acids can modulate the production of diacylglycerol and the activation of protein kinase C, mitogen activated protein kinase, calcium signalling and translocation of transcriptional factors, implicated in the regulation of gene transcription in T-cells.

The role of calcium influx pathways in phospholipase D activation in bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells

The steroid hormone aldosterone maintains sodium homeostasis and is therefore important in the control of blood volume and pressure. Angiotensin II (AngII) and elevated extracellular potassium concentrations ([K(+)](e)), the prime physiologic regulators of aldosterone secretion from adrenal glomerulosa cells, activate phospholipase D (PLD) in these cells. The role of Ca(2+) in the activation by these agents is unknown, although nitrendipine, a voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel antagonist, does not inhibit AngII-elicited PLD activation, despite the fact that this compound blocked elevated [K(+)](e)-stimulated PLD activity. PLD activation triggered by AngII was also unaffected by the T-type calcium channel inhibitor nickel. Nevertheless, Ca(2+) influx was required for AngII-induced PLD activation in both primary cultures of bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells and a glomerulosa cell model, the NCI H295R adrenocortical carcinoma cell line. The involvement of store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) influx and Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) influx pathways in PLD activation was investigated using thapsigargin, an endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) pump inhibitor that empties the store to induce SOC influx, and the SOC inhibitor YM-58483 (BTP2), as well as a CRAC inhibitor, tyrphostin A9. In bovine glomerulosa cells, tyrphostin A9 inhibited AngII-induced PLD activation without affecting elevated [K(+)](e)-stimulated enzyme activity. On the other hand, differences were observed between the bovine adrenal glomerulosa and H295R cells in the involvement of Ca(2+) influx pathways in PLD activation, with the involvement of the SOC pathway suggested in the H295R cells. In summary, our results indicate that Ca(2+) entry only through certain Ca(2+) influx pathways is linked to PLD activation.

Docosahexaenoic acid reduces suppressive and migratory functions of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T-cells

Immunological tolerance is one of the fundamental aspects of the immune system. The CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells have emerged as key players in the development of tolerance to self and foreign antigens. However, little is known about the endogenous factors and mechanisms controlling their suppressive capacity on immune response. In this study, we observed that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, diminished, in a dose-dependent manner, the capacity of Treg cells to inhibit the CD4(+)CD25(-) effector T-cell proliferation. DHA not only reduced the migration of Treg cells toward chemokines but also downregulated the mRNA expression of CCR-4 and CXCR-4 in Treg cells. DHA also curtailed ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation and downregulated the Smad7 levels in these cells. Contradictorily, DHA upregulated the mRNA expression of Foxp3, CTLA-4, TGF-beta, and IL-10; nonetheless, this fatty acid increased the expression of p27(KIP1) mRNA, known to be involved in Treg cell unresponsiveness. In Foxp3-immunoprepitated nuclear proteins, DHA upregulated histone desacetylase 7 levels that would again participate in the unresposnsiveness of these cells. Finally, a DHA-enriched diet also diminished, ex vivo, the suppressive capacity of Treg cells. Altogether, these results suggest that DHA, by diminishing Treg cell functions, may play a key role in health and disease.

Docosahexaenoic acid induces apoptosis in lung cancer cells by increasing MKP-1 and down-regulating p-ERK1/2 and p-p38 expression

Different agents able to modulate apoptosis have been shown to modify the expression of the MAP-kinase-phosphatase-1 (MKP-1). The expression of this phosphatase has been considered a potential positive prognostic factor in lung cancer, and smoke was shown to reduce the levels of MKP-1 in ferret lung. Our aim was to assess whether the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), known to inhibit the growth of several cancer cells mainly inducing apoptosis, may exert pro-apoptotic effect in lung cancer cells by modifying MKP-1 expression. We observed that DHA increased MKP-1 protein and mRNA expression and induced apoptosis in different lung cancer cell lines (mink Mv1Lu adenocarcinoma cells, human A549 adenocarcinoma and human BEN squamous carcinoma cells). We inhibited the pro-apoptotic effect of DHA by treating the cells with the phosphatase inhibitor Na(3)VO(4) or by silencing the MKP-1 gene with the specific siRNA. This finding demonstrated that the induction of apoptosis by DHA involved a phosphatase activity, specifically that of MKP-1. DHA reduced also the levels of the phosphorylated MAP-kinases, especially ERK1/2 and p38. Such an effect was not observed when the MKP-1 gene was silenced. Altogether, the data provide evidence that the DHA-induced overexpression of MKP-1 and the resulting decrease of MAP-kinase phosphorylation by DHA may underlie the pro-apoptotic effect of this fatty acid in lung cancer cells. Moreover, they support the hypothesis that DHA may exert chemopreventive action in lung cancer.

Regulation of T cell survival through coronin-1-mediated generation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate and calcium mobilization after T cell receptor triggering

T cell homeostasis is essential for the functioning of the vertebrate immune system, but the intracellular signals required for T cell homeostasis are largely unknown. We here report that the WD-repeat protein family member coronin-1, encoded by the gene Coro1a, is essential in the mouse for T cell survival through its promotion of Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular stores. Upon T cell receptor triggering, coronin-1 was essential for the generation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate from phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate. The absence of coronin-1, although it did not affect T cell development, resulted in a profound defect in Ca2+ mobilization, interleukin-2 production, T cell proliferation and T cell survival. We conclude that coronin-1, through activation of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, is an essential regulator of peripheral lymphocyte survival.

Docosahexaenoic acid induces increases in [Ca2+]i via inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate production and activates protein kinase C gamma and -delta via phosphatidylserine binding site: implication in apoptosis in U937 cells

We investigated, in monocytic leukemia U937 cells, the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6 n-3) on calcium signaling and determined the implication of phospholipase C (PLC) and protein kinase C (PKC) in this pathway. DHA induced dose-dependent increases in [Ca2+]i, which were contributed by intracellular pool, via the production of inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) and store-operated Ca2+ (SOC) influx, via opening of Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels. Chemical inhibition of PLC, PKCgamma, and PKCdelta, but not of PKCbeta I/II, PKCalpha, or PKCbetaI, significantly diminished DHA-induced increases in [Ca2+]i. In vitro PKC assays revealed that DHA induced a approximately 2-fold increase in PKCgamma and -delta activities, which were temporally correlated with the DHA-induced increases in [Ca2+]i. In cell-free assays, DHA, but not other structural analogs of fatty acids, activated these PKC isoforms. Competition experiments revealed that DHA-induced activation of both the PKCs was dose-dependently inhibited by phosphatidylserine (PS). Furthermore, DHA induced apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, followed by caspase-3 activation. Chemical inhibition of PKCgamma/delta and of SOC/CRAC channels significantly attenuated both DHA-stimulated ROS production and caspase-3 activity. Our study suggests that DHA-induced activation of PLC/IP3 pathway and activation of PKCgamma/delta, via its action on PS binding site, may be involved in apoptosis in U937 cells.

Acidic extracellular pH increases calcium influx-triggered phospholipase D activity along with acidic sphingomyelinase activation to induce matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in mouse metastatic melanoma

Acidic extracellular pH is a common feature of tumor tissues. We have reported that culturing cells at acidic pH (5.4-6.5) induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression through phospholipase D, extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases and nuclear factor-kappaB. Here, we show that acidic extracellular pH signaling involves both pathways of phospholipase D triggered by Ca2+ influx and acidic sphingomyelinase in mouse B16 melanoma cells. We found that BAPTA-AM [1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetrakis (acetoxymethyl) ester], a chelator of intracellular free calcium, and the voltage dependent Ca2+ channel blockers, mibefradil (for T-type) and nimodipine (for L-type), dose-dependently inhibited acidic extracellular pH-induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression. Intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) was transiently elevated by acidic extracellular pH, and this [Ca2+]i elevation was repressed by EGTA and the voltage dependent Ca2+ channel blockers but not by phospholipase C inhibitor, suggesting that acidic extracellular pH increased [Ca2+]i through voltage dependent Ca2+ channel. In contrast, SR33557, an L-type voltage dependent Ca2+ channel blocker and acidic sphingomyelinase inhibitor, attenuated matrix metalloproteinase-9 induction but did not affect calcium influx. We found that acidic sphingomyelinase activity was induced by acidic extracellular pH and that the specific acidic sphingomyelinase inhibitors (perhexiline and desipramine) and siRNA targeting aSMase/smpd1 could inhibit acidic extracellular pH-induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression. BAPTA-AM reduced acidic extracellular pH-induced phospholipase D but not acidic sphingomyelinase acitivity. The acidic sphingomyelinase inhibitors did not affect the phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 and p38, but they suppressed nuclear factor-kappaB activity. These data suggest that the calcium influx-triggered phospholipase D and acidic sphingomyelinase pathways of acidic extracellular pH induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression, at least in part, through nuclear factor-kappaB activation.

Docosahexaenoic Acid and Butyrate Synergistically Induce Colonocyte Apoptosis by Enhancing Mitochondrial Ca2+Accumulation

We have previously shown that butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid fiber fermentation product, induces colonocyte apoptosis via a nonmitochondrial, Fas-mediated, extrinsic pathway. Interestingly, fermentable fiber when combined with fish oil containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) exhibits an enhanced ability to induce apoptosis and protect against colon tumorigenesis. To determine the molecular mechanism of action, the effect of DHA and butyrate cotreatment on intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis was examined. Mouse colonocytes were treated with 50 micromol/L DHA or linoleic acid (LA) for 72 h +/- butyrate (0-10 mmol/L) for the final 24 h. Cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca2+ levels were measured using Fluo-4 and Rhod-2. DHA did not alter basal Ca2+ or the intracellular inositol trisphosphate (IP3) pool after 6 h butyrate cotreatment. In contrast, at 12 and 24 h, DHA- and butyrate-treated cultures exhibited a 25% and 38% decrease in cytosolic Ca2+ compared with LA and butyrate. Chelation of extracellular Ca2+ abolished the effect of thapsigargin on the IP3-releasable Ca2+ pool. DHA and butyrate cotreatment compared with untreated cells increased the mitochondrial-to-cytosolic Ca2+ ratio at 6, 12, and 24 h by 73%, 18%, and 37%, respectively. The accumulation of mitochondrial Ca2+ preceded the onset of apoptosis. RU-360, a mitochondrial-uniporter inhibitor, abrogated mitochondrial Ca2+ accumulation and also partially blocked apoptosis in DHA and butyrate cotreated cells. Collectively, these data show that the combination of DHA and butyrate, compared with butyrate alone, further enhances apoptosis by additionally recruiting a Ca2+ -mediated intrinsic mitochondrial pathway.

Ca2+ influx through CRAC channels activates cytosolic phospholipase A2, leukotriene C4 secretion, and expression of c-fos through ERK-dependent and -independent pathways in mast cells

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) is a Ca2+-dependent enzyme that mediates agonist-dependent arachidonic acid release in most cell types. Arachidonic acid can then be metabolized by the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme to generate the proinflammatory signal leukotriene C4 (LTC4). Here we report that Ca2+ entry through store-operated CRAC (Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+) channels activates the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family, within minutes and this is necessary for stimulation of cPLA2. Ca2+ entry activates ERK indirectly, via recruitment of Ca2+-dependent protein kinase C alpha and betaI. Ca2+ influx also promotes translocation of cytosolic 5-lipoxygenase to the nuclear membrane, a key step in the activation of this enzyme. Translocation is dependent on ERK activation. A role for gene activation is shown by the finding that CRAC channel opening results in increased transcription and translation of c-fos. Inhibition of ERK activation failed to prevent c-fos expression. Our results show that CRAC channel activation elicits short-term effects through the co-coordinated regulation of two metabolic pathways (cPLA2 and 5-lipoxygenase), which results in the generation of both intra- and intercellular messengers within minutes, as well as longer term changes involving gene activation. These short-term effects are mediated via ERK, whereas, paradoxically, c-fos expression is not. Ca2+ influx through CRAC channels can therefore activate different signaling pathways at the same time, culminating in a range of temporally diverse responses.

Docosahexaenoic acid inhibits cancer cell growth via p27Kip1, CDK2, ERK1/ERK2, and retinoblastoma phosphorylation

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a PUFA of the n-3 family, inhibited the growth of FM3A mouse mammary cancer cells by arresting their progression from the late-G(1) to the S phase of the cell cycle. DHA upregulated p27(Kip1) levels by inhibiting phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases, i.e., ERK1/ERK2. Indeed, inhibition of ERK1/ERK2 phosphorylation by DHA, U0126 [chemical MAPK extracellularly signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor], and MEK(SA) (cells expressing dominant negative constructs of MEK) resulted in the accumulation of p27(Kip1). MAP kinase (MAPK) inhibition by DHA did not increase p27(Kip1) mRNA levels. Rather, this fatty acid stabilized p27(Kip1) contents and inhibited MAPK-dependent proteasomal degradation of this protein. DHA also diminished cyclin E phosphorylation, cyclin-dependent kinase-2 (CDK2) activity, and phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein in these cells. Our study shows that DHA arrests cell growth by modulating the phosphorylation of cell cycle-related proteins.

On Cell Signalling Mechanism of Mycobaterium Leprae Soluble Antigen (MLSA) in Jurkat T Cells

We investigated the role of Mycobaterium leprae soluble antigen (MLSA) in the modulation of calcium signalling, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases and IL-2 mRNA expression in human Jurkat T cells. We observed that MLSA induced an increase in free intracellular calcium concentrations, [Ca2+]i, via opening CRAC (Ca2+-release activated- Ca2+) channels. Furthermore, MLSA failed to potentiate both thapsigargin- and anti-CD3 antibodies-induced capacitative calcium influx in Jurkat T cells. We observed that MLSA failed to affect the degree of phosphorylation of two MAP kinases, i.e., ERK1/ERK2, stimulated by anti-CD3 antibodies alone or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) alone. In order to mimic co-stimulation of T cells, we stimulated them by both PMA and anti-CD3 antibodies. MLSA significantly curtailed the phosphorylation of ERK1/ERK2, stimulated by both PMA and anti-CD3 antibodies in Jurkat T cells. Also MLSA was found to reduce the transcription of IL-2 gene in PMA plus anti-CD3 antibodies-activated Jurkat T cells. Our finding demonstrates that Ca2+ influx via CRAC channels, inhibition of ERK1/ERK2 phosphorylation and IL-2 gene transcription may be implicated in immunosuppressive effects of MLSA antigen.

Eicosapentaenoic acid prevents endothelin-1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro through the suppression of TGF-beta 1 and phosphorylated JNK

The cardiovascular benefit of fish oil in humans and experimental animals has been reported. Endothelin (ET)-1 is a well-known cardiac hypertrophic factor. However, although many studies link a fish oil extract, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), to cardiac protection, the effects of EPA on cardiac hypertrophy and underlying mechanism(s) are unclear. The present study investigated whether EPA prevents ET-1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy; the potential pathways likely to underlie such an effect were also investigated. Cardiomyocytes were isolated from neonatal rat heart, cultured for 3 days, and then treated for 24 h with vehicle only (control), treated with 0.1 nM ET-1 only, or pretreated with 10 microM EPA and then treated with 0.1 nM ET-1. The cells were harvested, and changes in cell surface area, protein synthesis, expression of a cytoskeletal (alpha-actinin) protein, and cell signaling were analyzed. ET-1 induced a 97% increase in cardiomyocyte surface area, a 72% increase in protein synthesis rate, and an increase in expression of alpha-actinin and signaling molecule [transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1), c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), and c-Jun]. Development of these ET-1-induced cellular changes was attenuated by EPA. Moreover, the hypertrophied cardiomyocytes showed a 1.5- and a 1.7-fold increase in mRNA expression of atrial and brain natriuretic peptides, the classical molecular markers of cardiac hypertrophy, respectively; these changes were also suppressed by EPA. Here we show that ET-1 induces cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and expression of hypertrophic markers, possibly mediated by JNK and TGF-beta 1 signaling pathways. These ET-1-induced effects were blocked by EPA, a major fish oil ingredient, suggesting that fish oil may have beneficial protective effects on cardiac hypertrophy.

Diacylglycerol-Containing Docosahexaenoic Acid in Acyl Chain Modulates Airway Smooth Muscle Tone

We synthesized and assessed the role of a diacylglycerol (DAG)-containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that is, 1-stearoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-sn-glycerol (SDHG), in the contraction of guinea pig airway smooth muscle (ASM). We compared its action with 1-stearoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (SAG) and 1,2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol (1,2-DiC8), a stable DAG analog. The three DAGs (SAG, SDHG, and 1,2-DiC8) induced reversible concentration-dependent contraction of ASM. SDHG induced higher guinea pig ASM contraction than did SAG and 1,2-DiC8. The effects of SDHG were blocked, to different extents, by nifedipine (L-type Ca2+ channel blocker). By employing GF-109203X (protein kinase C [PKC] inhibitor) and lanthanum (La3+), a nonselective cation channel blocker, we observed that SDHG evoked ASM contractile response via PKC-dependent and PKC-independent (but Ca2+-dependent) pathways. Interestingly, SAG exerted its action only by increasing [Ca2+]i and did not require PKC activation. To probe the implication of calcium mobilization, we employed thapsigargin (TG), which also induced ASM contraction in a calcium-dependent manner. SDHG and 1,2-DiC8, in a PKC-dependent manner, induced the phosphorylation of CPI-17 (myosin light chain phosphatase inhibitor of 17 kD). Furthermore, SAG and TG failed to phosphorylate CPI-17 in ASM cells. Our results suggest that different DAG species, produced during a dietary supplementation with fatty acids, could modulate the reactivity of airway smooth muscles in a PKC-dependent and -independent manner, and hence, may play a critical role in health and disease.

Pneumolysin-mediated activation of NFkappaB in human neutrophils is antagonized by docosahexaenoic acid

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between influx of extracellular Ca(2+), activation of NFkappaB and synthesis of interleukin-8 (IL-8) following exposure of human neutrophils to subcytolytic concentrations (8.37 and 41.75 ng/ml) of the pneumococcal toxin, pneumolysin, as well as the potential of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid, to antagonize these events. Activation and translocation of NFkappaB were measured using a radiometric electrophoretic mobility shift assay, while influx of extracellular Ca(2+) and synthesis of IL-8 were determined using a radioassay and an ELISA procedure, respectively. Exposure of neutrophils to pneumolysin was accompanied by influx of Ca(2+), activation of NFkappaB, and synthesis of IL-8, all of which were eliminated by inclusion of the Ca(2+)-chelating agent, EGTA (10 m m), in the cell-suspending medium, as well as by pretreatment of the cells with docosahexaenoic acid (5 and 10 microg/ml). The antagonistic effects of docosahexaenoic acid on these pro-inflammatory interactions of pneumolysin with neutrophils were not attributable to inactivation of the toxin, and required the continuous presence of the fatty acid. These observations demonstrate that activation of NFkappaB and synthesis of IL-8, following exposure of neutrophils to pneumolysin are dependent on toxin-mediated influx of Ca(2+) and that these potentially harmful activities of the toxin are antagonized by docosahexaenoic acid.

n-3 PUFAs modulate T-cell activation via protein kinase C-α and -ε and the NF-κB signaling pathway

We elucidated the mechanisms of action of two n-3 PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in Jurkat T-cells. Both DHA and EPA were principally incorporated into phospholipids in the following order: phosphatidylcholine < phosphatidylethanolamine < phosphatidylinositol/phosphatidylserine. Furthermore, two isoforms of phospholipase A(2) (i.e., calcium-dependent and calcium-independent) were implicated in the release of DHA and EPA, respectively, during activation of these cells. The two fatty acids inhibited the phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced plasma membrane translocation of protein kinase C (PKC)-alpha and -epsilon. The two n-3 PUFAs also inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) and the transcription of the interleukin-2 (IL-2) gene in PMA-activated Jurkat T-cells. Together, these results demonstrate that DHA and EPA, being released by two isoforms of phospholipase A(2), modulate IL-2 gene expression by exerting their action on two PKC isoforms and NF-kappaB in Jurkat T-cells.

Effects of EPA and DHA on proliferation, cytokine production, and gene expression in Raji cells

The effects of EPA and DHA on the function and gene expression of a B-lymphocyte cell line (Raji) were investigated. Proliferation; production of interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and interferon (INF)-gamma; and expression of pleiotropic genes were evaluated. Cell proliferation was increased in the presence of 12.5 microM EPA (approximately twofold) and 12.5 microM DHA (approximately 1.5-fold). EPA and DHA (25 microM) also decreased production of the key immunoregulatory cytokines IL-10, TNF-alpha, and INF-gamma. EPA and DHA changed the expression of specific genes, but this effect was more marked for EPA (25.9% of genes investigated) compared with DHA (8.4% of genes investigated). EPA and DHA affected the expression of genes clustered as: cytokines, signal transduction, transcription, cell cycle, defense and repair, apoptosis, cell adhesion, cytoskeleton, and hormones. The most remarkable changes were observed in the genes of signal transduction and transcription. These results led us to conclude that the mechanism of DHA and EPA effects on B-lymphocyte functions includes regulation of gene expression. Thus, the ingestion of fish oil, a rich source of EPA and DHA, may have a strong effect on B-lymphocyte function in vivo. However, remarkable differences were observed between DHA and EPA, demonstrating that specific effects of these FA may be responsible for the marked differences in edible oil effects on immune function in vivo reported by others.