"Tell me where is calcium bred": clarifying the roles of nuclear calcium

3D photopolymerized microstructured scaffolds influence nuclear deformation, nucleo/cytoskeletal protein organization, and gene regulation in mesenchymal stem cells

Mechanical stimuli from the extracellular environment affect cell morphology and functionality. Recently, we reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) grown in a custom-made 3D microscaffold, the Nichoid, are able to express higher levels of stemness markers. In fact, the Nichoid is an interesting device for autologous MSC expansion in clinical translation and would appear to regulate gene activity by altering intracellular force transmission. To corroborate this hypothesis, we investigated mechanotransduction-related nuclear mechanisms, and we also treated spread cells with a drug that destroys the actin cytoskeleton. We observed a roundish nuclear shape in MSCs cultured in the Nichoid and correlated the nuclear curvature with the import of transcription factors. We observed a more homogeneous euchromatin distribution in cells cultured in the Nichoid with respect to the Flat sample, corresponding to a standard glass coverslip. These results suggest a different gene regulation, which we confirmed by an RNA-seq analysis that revealed the dysregulation of 1843 genes. We also observed a low structured lamina mesh, which, according to the implemented molecular dynamic simulations, indicates reduced damping activity, thus supporting the hypothesis of low intracellular force transmission. Also, our investigations regarding lamin expression and spatial organization support the hypothesis that the gene dysregulation induced by the Nichoid is mainly related to a reduction in force transmission. In conclusion, our findings revealing the Nichoid's effects on MSC behavior is a step forward in the control of stem cells via mechanical manipulation, thus paving the way to new strategies for MSC translation to clinical applications.

A Long-Lasting PARP1-Activation Mediates Signal-Induced Gene Expression

This overview presents recent evidence for a long-lasting PARP1 activation by a variety of signal transduction mechanisms, mediating signal-induced gene expression and chromatin remodeling. This mode of PARP1 activation has been reported in a variety of cell types, under physiological conditions. In this mechanism, PARP1 is not transiently activated by binding to DNA breaks. Moreover, damaged DNA interfered with this long-lasting PARP1 activation.

The Driving Force: Nuclear Mechanotransduction in Cellular Function, Fate, and Disease

Cellular behavior is continuously affected by microenvironmental forces through the process of mechanotransduction, in which mechanical stimuli are rapidly converted to biochemical responses. Mounting evidence suggests that the nucleus itself is a mechanoresponsive element, reacting to cytoskeletal forces and mediating downstream biochemical responses. The nucleus responds through a host of mechanisms, including partial unfolding, conformational changes, and phosphorylation of nuclear envelope proteins; modulation of nuclear import/export; and altered chromatin organization, resulting in transcriptional changes. It is unclear which of these events present direct mechanotransduction processes and which are downstream of other mechanotransduction pathways. We critically review and discuss the current evidence for nuclear mechanotransduction, particularly in the context of stem cell fate, a largely unexplored topic, and in disease, where an improved understanding of nuclear mechanotransduction is beginning to open new treatment avenues. Finally, we discuss innovative technological developments that will allow outstanding questions in the rapidly growing field of nuclear mechanotransduction to be answered.

Phospholipase C delta 4 (PLCδ4) is a nuclear protein involved in cell proliferation and senescence in mesenchymal stromal stem cells

Ca²⁺ is an important second messenger, and it is involved in many cellular processes such as cell death and proliferation. The rise in intracellular Ca²⁺ levels can be due to the generation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP₃), which is a product of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP₂) hydrolysis by phospholipases C (PLCs), that leads to Ca²⁺ release from endoplasmic reticulum by InsP₃ receptors (InsP₃R). Ca²⁺ signaling patterns can vary in different regions of the cell and increases in nuclear Ca²⁺ levels have specific biological effects that differ from those of Ca²⁺ increase in the cytoplasm. There are PLCs in the cytoplasm and nucleus, but little is known about the functions of nuclear PLCs. This work aimed to characterize phenotypically the human PLCδ4 (hPLCδ4) in mesenchymal stem cells. This nuclear isoform of PLC is present in different cell types and has a possible role in proliferative processes. In this work, hPLCδ4 was found to be mainly nuclear in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASC). PLCδ4 knockdown demonstrated that it is essential for hASC proliferation, without inducing cell death. An increase of cells in G1, and a reduction of cells on interphase and G2/M in knockdown cells were seen. Furthermore, PLCδ4 knockdown increased the percentage of senescent cells, p16^INK4A+ and p21^Cip1 mRNAs expression, which could explain the impaired cell proliferation. The results show that hPLCδ4 is in involved in cellular proliferation and senescence in hASC.

Cysteine (C)-x-C receptor 4 undergoes transportin 1-dependent nuclear localization and remains functional at the nucleus of metastatic prostate cancer cells

The G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), Cysteine (C)-X-C Receptor 4 (CXCR4), plays an important role in prostate cancer metastasis. CXCR4 is generally regarded as a plasma membrane receptor where it transmits signals that support transformation, progression and eventual metastasis. Due to the central role of CXCR4 in tumorigenesis, therapeutics approaches such as antagonist and monoclonal antibodies have focused on receptors that exist on the plasma membrane. An emerging concept for G-protein coupled receptors is that they may localize to and associate with the nucleus where they retain function and mediate nuclear signaling. Herein, we demonstrate that CXCR4 associated with the nucleus of malignant prostate cancer tissues. Likewise, expression of CXCR4 was detected in nuclear fractions among several prostate cancer cell lines, compared to normal prostate epithelial cells. Our studies identified a nuclear pool of CXCR4 and we defined a nuclear transport pathway for CXCR4. We reveal a putative nuclear localization sequence (NLS), ‘RPRK’, within CXCR4 that contributed to nuclear localization. Additionally, nuclear CXCR4 interacted with Transportinβ1 and Transportinβ1-binding to CXCR4 promoted its nuclear translocation. Importantly, G_αi immunoprecipitation and calcium mobilization studies indicated that nuclear CXCR4 was functional and participated in G-protein signaling, revealing that the nuclear pool of CXCR4 retained function. Given the suggestion that functional, nuclear CXCR4 may be a mechanism underlying prostate cancer recurrence, increased metastatic ability and poorer prognosis after tumors have been treated with therapy that targets plasma membrane CXCR4, these studies addresses a novel mechanism of nuclear signaling for CXCR4, a novel mechanism of clinical targeting, and demonstrate an active nuclear pool that provides important new information to illuminate what has been primarily clinical reports of nuclear CXCR4.

A role for phosphoinositides in regulating plant nuclear functions

Nuclear localized inositol phospholipids and inositol phosphates are important for regulating many essential processes in animal and yeast cells such as DNA replication, recombination, RNA processing, mRNA export and cell cycle progression. An overview of the current literature indicates the presence of a plant nuclear phosphoinositide (PI) pathway. Inositol phospholipids, inositol phosphates, and enzymes of the PI pathway have been identified in plant nuclei and are implicated in DNA replication, chromatin remodeling, stress responses and hormone signaling. In this review, the potential functions of the nuclear PI pathway in plants are discussed within the context of the animal and yeast literature. It is anticipated that future research will help shed light on the functional significance of the nuclear PI pathway in plants.

PIP kinases from the cell membrane to the nucleus

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) is a membrane bound lipid molecule with capabilities to affect a wide array of signaling pathways to regulate very different cellular processes. PIP(2) is used as a precursor to generate the second messengers PIP(3), DAG and IP(3), indispensable molecules for signaling events generated by membrane receptors. However, PIP(2) can also directly regulate a vast array of proteins and is emerging as a crucial messenger with the potential to distinctly modulate biological processes critical for both normal and pathogenic cell physiology. PIP(2) directly associates with effector proteins via unique phosphoinositide binding domains, altering their localization and/or enzymatic activity. The spatial and temporal generation of PIP(2) synthesized by the phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinases (PIPKs) tightly regulates the activation of receptor signaling pathways, endocytosis and vesicle trafficking, cell polarity, focal adhesion dynamics, actin assembly and 3' mRNA processing. Here we discuss our current understanding of PIPKs in the regulation of cellular processes from the plasma membrane to the nucleus.

Protein kinase C-induced phosphorylation of Orai1 regulates the intracellular Ca2+ level via the store-operated Ca2+ channel

Ca(2+) signals through store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) channels, activated by the depletion of Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum, regulate various physiological events. Orai1 is the pore-forming subunit of the Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) channel, the best characterized SOC channel. Orai1 is activated by stromal interaction molecule (STIM) 1, a Ca(2+) sensor located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Orai1 and STIM1 are crucial for SOC channel activation, but the molecular mechanisms regulating Orai1 function are not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that protein kinase C (PKC) suppresses store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) by phosphorylation of Orai1. PKC inhibitors and knockdown of PKCbeta both resulted in increased Ca(2+) influx. Orai1 is strongly phosphorylated by PKC in vitro and in vivo at N-terminal Ser-27 and Ser-30 residues. Consistent with these results, substitution of endogenous Orai1 with an Orai1 S27A/S30A mutant resulted in increased SOCE and CRAC channel currents. We propose that PKC suppresses SOCE and CRAC channel function by phosphorylation of Orai1 at N-terminal serine residues Ser-27 and Ser-30.

Nuclear-delimited angiotensin receptor-mediated signaling regulates cardiomyocyte gene expression

Angiotensin-II (Ang-II) from extracardiac sources and intracardiac synthesis regulates cardiac homeostasis, with mitogenic and growth-promoting effects largely due to altered gene expression. Here, we assessed the possibility that angiotensin-1 (AT1R) or angiotensin-2 (AT2R) receptors on the nuclear envelope mediate effects on cardiomyocyte gene expression. Immunoblots of nucleus-enriched fractions from isolated cardiomyocytes indicated the presence of AT1R and AT2R proteins that copurified with the nuclear membrane marker nucleoporin-62 and histone-3, but not markers of plasma (calpactin-I), Golgi (GRP-78), or endoplasmic reticulum (GM130) membranes. Confocal microscopy revealed AT1R and AT2R proteins on nuclear membranes. Microinjected Ang-II preferentially bound to nuclear sites of isolated cardiomyocytes. AT1R and AT2R ligands enhanced de novo RNA synthesis in isolated cardiomyocyte nuclei incubated with [alpha-(32)P]UTP (e.g. 36.0 +/- 6.0 cpm/ng of DNA control versus 246.4 +/- 15.4 cpm/ng of DNA Ang-II, 390.1 +/- 15.5 cpm/ng of DNA L-162313 (AT1), 180.9 +/- 7.2 cpm/ng of DNA CGP42112A (AT2), p < 0.001). Ang-II application to cardiomyocyte nuclei enhanced NFkappaB mRNA expression, a response that was suppressed by co-administration of AT1R (valsartan) and/or AT2R (PD123177) blockers. Dose-response experiments with Ang-II applied to purified cardiomyocyte nuclei versus intact cardiomyocytes showed greater increases in NFkappaB mRNA levels at saturating concentrations with approximately 2-fold greater affinity upon nuclear application, suggesting preferential nuclear signaling. AT1R, but not AT2R, stimulation increased [Ca(2+)] in isolated cardiomyocyte nuclei. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor blockade by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate prevented AT1R-mediated Ca(2+) release and attenuated AT1R-mediated transcription initiation responses. We conclude that cardiomyocyte nuclear membranes possess angiotensin receptors that couple to nuclear signaling pathways and regulate transcription. Signaling within the nuclear envelope (e.g. from intracellularly synthesized Ang-II) may play a role in Ang-II-mediated changes in cardiac gene expression, with potentially important mechanistic and therapeutic implications.

Somatic Ca2+ signaling in cerebellar Purkinje neurons

Activity-driven Ca(2+) signaling plays an important role in a number of neuronal functions, including neuronal growth, differentiation, and plasticity. Both cytosolic and nuclear Ca(2+) has been implicated in these functions. In the current study, we investigated membrane-to-nucleus Ca(2+) signaling in cerebellar Purkinje neurons in culture to gain insight into the pathways and mechanisms that can initiate nuclear Ca(2+) signaling in this neuronal type. Purkinje neurons are known to express an abundance of Ca(2+) signaling molecules such as voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels, ryanodine receptors, and IP3 receptors. Results show that membrane depolarization evoked by brief stimulation with K(+) saline elicits a prominent Ca(2+) signal in the cytosol and nucleus of the Purkinje neurons. Ca(2+) influx through P/Q- and L-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels and Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release (CICR) from intracellular stores contributed to the Ca(2+) signal, which spread from the plasma membrane to the nucleus. At strong K(+) stimulations, the amplitude of the nuclear Ca(2+) signal exceeded that of the cytosolic Ca(2+) signal, suggesting the involvement of a nuclear amplification mechanism and/or differences in Ca(2+) buffering in these two cellular compartments. An enhanced nuclear Ca(2+) signal was more prominent for Ca(2+) signals elicited by membrane depolarization than for Ca(2+) signals elicited by activation of the metabotropic glutamate receptor pathway (mGluR1), which is linked to Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores controlled by the IP3 receptor.

Transcriptional upregulation of calcineurin Abeta by endothelin-1 is partially mediated by calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIdelta3 in rat cardiomyocytes

Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and calcineurin (CaN) are positive regulators of cardiac hypertrophy, but the nature of cross-talk between CaMKII and CaN signaling pathways in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes remains unclear. Here we documented that CaMKIIdelta3 activation enhances transcription of the CaN gene through activation of the CaN-Abeta subunit (CnAbeta) promoter in rat cultured cardiomyocytes. Co-immunoprecipitation assays showed that MEF2 forms a complex with GATA4 following transfection of an active CaMKIIdelta3 (T278D) mutant in neonatal cardiomyocytes. Inversely, transfection of a dominant negative CaMKIIdelta3 mutant failed to promote a MEF2-GATA4 complex. Consistent with these observations, immunocytochemistry indicated nuclear co-localization of MEF2 with GATA4 after hypertrophic agonist stimulation or CaMKIIdelta3 (T278D) transfection. These data demonstrate that CaMKII can enhance CnAbeta promoter activity by enhancing MEF2-GATA4 synergy, suggesting a novel mechanism for CaMKII-mediated hypertrophic signaling, which contributes to induction and development of the hypertrophic response through CaN activation.

CaMKIIdelta isoforms differentially affect calcium handling but similarly regulate HDAC/MEF2 transcriptional responses

The delta(B) and delta(C) splice variants of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), which differ by the presence of a nuclear localization sequence, are both expressed in cardiomyocytes. We used transgenic (TG) mice and CaMKII expression in cardiomyocytes to test the hypothesis that the CaMKIIdelta(C) isoform regulates cytosolic Ca(2+) handling and the delta(B) isoform, which localizes to the nucleus, regulates gene transcription. Phosphorylation of CaMKII sites on the ryanodine receptor (RyR) and on phospholamban (PLB) were increased in CaMKIIdelta(C) TG. This was associated with markedly enhanced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) spark frequency and decreased SR Ca(2+) content in cardiomyocytes. None of these parameters were altered in TG mice expressing the nuclear-targeted CaMKIIdelta(B). In contrast, cardiac expression of either CaMKIIdelta(B) or delta(C) induced transactivation of myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) gene expression and up-regulated hypertrophic marker genes. Studies using rat ventricular cardiomyocytes confirmed that CaMKIIdelta(B) and delta(C) both regulate MEF2-luciferase gene expression, increase histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) association with 14-3-3, and induce HDAC4 translocation from nucleus to cytoplasm, indicating that either isoform can stimulate HDAC4 phosphorylation. Finally, HDAC4 kinase activity was shown to be increased in cardiac homogenates from either CaMKIIdelta(B) or delta(C) TG mice. Thus CaMKIIdelta isoforms have similar effects on hypertrophic gene expression but disparate effects on Ca(2+) handling, suggesting distinct roles for CaMKIIdelta isoform activation in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy versus heart failure.

Calcium signals can freely cross the nuclear envelope in hippocampal neurons: somatic calcium increases generate nuclear calcium transients

Background

In hippocampal neurons, nuclear calcium signaling is important for learning- and neuronal survival-associated gene expression. However, it is unknown whether calcium signals generated by neuronal activity at the cell membrane and propagated to the soma can unrestrictedly cross the nuclear envelope to invade the nucleus. The nuclear envelope, which allows ion transit via the nuclear pore complex, may represent a barrier for calcium and has been suggested to insulate the nucleus from activity-induced cytoplasmic calcium transients in some cell types.

Results

Using laser-assisted uncaging of caged calcium compounds in defined sub-cellular domains, we show here that the nuclear compartment border does not represent a barrier for calcium signals in hippocampal neurons. Although passive diffusion of molecules between the cytosol and the nucleoplasm may be modulated through changes in conformational state of the nuclear pore complex, we found no evidence for a gating mechanism for calcium movement across the nuclear border.

Conclusion

Thus, the nuclear envelope does not spatially restrict calcium transients to the somatic cytosol but allows calcium signals to freely enter the cell nucleus to trigger genomic events.

Differential gene expression in skeletal muscle cells after membrane depolarization

Skeletal muscle is a highly plastic tissue with a remarkable capacity to adapt itself to challenges imposed by contractile activity. Adaptive response, that include hypertrophy and activation of oxidative mechanisms have been associated with transient changes in transcriptional activity of specific genes. To define the set of genes regulated by a depolarizing stimulus, we used 22 K mouse oligonucleotide microarrays. Total RNA from C2C12 myotubes was obtained at 2, 4, 18, and 24 h after high K+ stimulation. cDNA from control and depolarized samples was labeled with cyanine 3 or 5 dyes prior to microarray hybridization. Loess normalization followed by statistical analysis resulted in 423 differentially expressed genes using an unadjusted P-value < or = 0.01 as cut off. Depolarization affects transcriptional activity of a limited number of genes, mainly associated with metabolism, cell communication and response to stress. A number of genes related to Ca2+ signaling pathways are induced at 4 h, reinforcing the potential role of Ca2+ in early steps of signal transduction that leads to gene expression. Significant changes in the expression of molecules involved in muscle cell structure were observed; K+-depolarization increased Tnni1 and Acta1 mRNA levels in both differentiated C2C12 and rat skeletal muscle cells in primary culture. Of these two, depolarization induced slow Ca2+ transients appear to have a role only in the regulation of Tnni1 transcriptional activity. We suggest that depolarization induced expression of a small set of genes may underlie Ca2+ dependent plasticity of skeletal muscle cells.

Intracrine signaling through lipid mediators and their cognate nuclear G-protein-coupled receptors: a paradigm based on PGE2, PAF, and LPA1 receptors

Prostaglandins (PGs), platelet-activating factor (PAF), and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) are ubiquitous lipid mediators that play important roles in inflammation, cardiovascular homeostasis, and immunity and are also known to modulate gene expression of specific pro-inflammatory genes. The mechanism of action of these lipids is thought to be primarily dependent on their specific plasma membrane receptors belonging to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR). Increasing evidence suggests the existence of a functional intracellular GPCR population. It has been proposed that immediate effects are mediated via cell surface receptors whereas long-term responses are dependent upon intracellular receptor effects. Indeed, receptors for PAF, LPA, and PGE(2) (specifically EP(1), EP(3), and EP(4)) localize at the cell nucleus of cerebral microvascular endothelial cells of newborn pigs, rat hepatocytes, and cells overexpressing each receptor. Stimulation of isolated nuclei with these lipids reveals biological functions including transcriptional regulation of major genes, namely c-fos, cylooxygenase-2, and endothelial as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase. In the present review, we shall focus on the nuclear localization and signaling of GPCRs recognizing PGE(2), PAF, and LPA phospholipids as ligands. Mechanisms on how nuclear PGE2, PAF, and LPA receptors activate gene transcription and nuclear localization pathways are presented. Intracrine signaling for lipid mediators uncover novel pathways to elicit their effects; accordingly, intracellular GPCRs constitute a distinctive mode of action for gene regulation.

Activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase C2 beta in the nuclear matrix during compensatory liver growth

In the nuclear matrix harvested 20 h after partial hepatectomy, an increase in immunoprecipitable PI3K-C2beta activity is observed, which is sensitive to wortmannin (10 Mm) and shows strong preference for PtdIns over PtdIns(4)P as a substrate. On western blots PI3K-C2beta revealed a single immunoreactive band of 180 kD, whereas 20 h after partial hepatectomy gel shift of 18kDa was noticed in the nuclear matrix, suggesting that observed activation of enzyme is achieved by proteolysis. As it is know that PI3K-C2alpha is associated with nuclear speckles [Didichenko SA, Thelen M. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase C2alpha contains a nuclear localization sequence and associates with nuclear speckles. J Biol Chem 2001;276:48135-42.], the data presented in this report show that in the nuclear matrix PI3K-C2beta is activated during the compensatory liver growth, which clearly demonstrates that different class II PI3K enzymes have different subnuclear localization and therefore might have different intranuclear functions.

Metabolism of arachidonic acid to eicosanoids within the nucleus

The eicosanoids are a diverse family of molecules that have powerful effects on cell function. They are best known as intercellular messengers, having autocrine and paracrine effects following their secretion from the cells that synthesize them. Many of the eicosanoids are produced from one polyunsaturated fatty acid, arachidonic acid. The diversity of possible products that can be synthesized from arachidonic acid is due, in part to the variety of enzymes that can act on it. Over the past 15 years, studies have placed many, but not all, of these enzymes at or inside the nucleus. In some cases, the nuclear import or export of arachidonic acid-processing enzymes is highly regulated. Furthermore, nuclear receptors that are activated by specific eicosanoids are known to exist. Taken together, these findings indicate that the enzymatic conversion of arachidonic acid to specific signaling molecules can occur in the nucleus, that it is regulated, and that the synthesized products may act within the nucleus. The objectives of this commentary are to review what is known about the metabolism of arachidonic acid to eicosanoids within the nucleus and to point to important areas for future discovery.

KIF4 Motor Regulates Activity-Dependent Neuronal Survival by Suppressing PARP-1 Enzymatic Activity

In brain development, apoptosis is a physiological process that controls the final numbers of neurons. Here, we report that the activity-dependent prevention of apoptosis in juvenile neurons is regulated by kinesin superfamily protein 4 (KIF4), a microtubule-based molecular motor. The C-terminal domain of KIF4 is a module that suppresses the activity of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), a nuclear enzyme known to maintain cell homeostasis by repairing DNA and serving as a transcriptional regulator. When neurons are stimulated by membrane depolarization, calcium signaling mediated by CaMKII induces dissociation of KIF4 from PARP-1, resulting in upregulation of PARP-1 activity, which supports neuron survival. After dissociation from PARP-1, KIF4 enters into the cytoplasm from the nucleus and moves to the distal part of neurites in a microtubule-dependent manner. We suggested that KIF4 controls the activity-dependent survival of postmitotic neurons by regulating PARP-1 activity in brain development.

NPY, ET-1, and Ang II nuclear receptors in human endocardial endothelial cellsThis paper is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue, entitled The Nucleus: A Cell Within A Cell

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and angiotensin II (Ang II) are peptides that are known to play many important roles in cardiovascular homeostasis. The physiological actions of these peptides are thought to be primarily mediated by plasma membrane receptors that belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily. However, there is increasing evidence that suggests the existence of functional G-protein-coupled receptors at the level of the nucleus and that the nucleus could be a cell within a cell. Here, we review our work showing the presence in the nucleus of the NPY Y1receptor, the ETAand ETBreceptors, as well as the AT1and AT2receptors and their respective ligands. This work was carried out in 20-week-old fetal human endocardial endothelial cells. Our results demonstrate that nuclear Y1, AT1, and ETAreceptors modulate nuclear calcium in these cells.

The Ca2+-releasing messenger NAADP, a new player in the nervous system

Many physiological processes are controlled by a great diversity of Ca2+ signals. Within cell, Ca2+ signals depend upon Ca2+ entry and/or Ca2+ release from internal Ca2+ stores. The control of Ca2+-store mobilization is ensured by a family of messengers comprising inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate, cyclic ADP-ribose and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP). From recent works, new concepts have emerged where activation of the cells by outside stimuli, acting at the plasma membrane, results in the synthesis of multiple Ca2+-releasing messengers which may interact and shape complex Ca2+ signals in the cytosol as well as in the nucleus. This contribution will cover the most recent advances on NAADP signalling with some emphasis on neurons.

Relationship between RNA synthesis and the Ca2+-filled state of the nuclear envelope store

RNA synthesis and ATP-dependent (45)Ca(2+) uptake were measured simultaneously in isolated nuclear fraction of rat liver nuclei. Maximal level of RNA synthesis was obtained under ATP-dependent (45)Ca(2+)-uptake conditions (1 microM free [Ca(2+)] and 1 mM ATP in the bathing solution). This experimental condition was defined as "stimulated nuclei" condition. ATP-dependent (45)Ca(2+) uptake was inhibited using different strategies including: (a) eliminating Ca(2+) (1 mM EGTA); (b) lowering the ATP concentration; (c) modifying nuclear envelope membranes Ca(2+) permeability (Ca(2+) ionophores); or (d) inhibiting the nuclear Ca(2+) pump (thapsigargin and 3',3'',5',5''-tetraiodophenolsulfonephthalein). Under all the above conditions, RNA synthesis was lower than in "stimulated nuclei" condition. In the presence of ionomycin, RNA synthesis was significantly higher at 500 nM free [Ca(2+)], as compared with RNA synthesis in a Ca(2+)-free medium or at 1muM free [Ca(2+)]. However, even in such condition (500 nM free [Ca(2+)]), RNA synthesis was lower than RNA synthesis obtained in "stimulated nuclei" condition. We suggest two components for the effect of Ca(2+) on RNA synthesis: (A) a direct effect of nucleoplasmic [Ca(2+)]; and (B) an effect dependent on the accumulation of Ca(2+) in the nuclear envelope store mediated by the SERCA nuclear Ca(2+) pump.

Intracellular signaling of lipid mediators via cognate nuclear G protein-coupled receptors

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) are ubiquitous lipid mediators that play important roles in inflammation, cardiovascular homeostasis, and immunity and are also known to modulate gene expression of specific proinflammatory genes. The mechanism of action of these phospholipids is thought to be primarily dependent on their specific plasma membrane receptors belonging to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). However, increasing evidence suggests the existence of a functional intracellular GPCR population. It has been suggested that immediate effects are mediated by cell surface receptors, whereas long-term responses are mediated by intracellular receptors. PAF and LPA(1) receptors localize at the cell nucleus of cerebral microvascular endothelial cells of newborn pig, rat hepatocytes, and cells overexpressing each receptor, and stimulation of isolated nuclei reveal biological functions, including transcriptional regulation of major genes, namely cylooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase. This mini review focuses on the nuclear localization and signaling of GPCRs, recognizing PAF and LPA phospholipids as ligands. Theories on how nuclear PAF and LPA1 receptors activate gene transcription and nuclear localization pathways are discussed. Intracrine signaling for lipid mediators uncover novel pathways to elicit their effects; moreover, intracellular GPCRs constitute a distinctive mode of action for gene regulation.

PolyADP-ribosylation is involved in neurotrophic activity

PolyADP-ribosylation is a transient posttranslational modification of proteins, mainly catalyzed by poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1). This highly conserved nuclear protein is activated rapidly in response to DNA nick formation and promotes a fast DNA repair. Here, we examine a possible association between polyADP-ribosylation and the activity of neurotrophins and neuroprotective peptides taking part in life-or-death decisions in mammalian neurons. The presented results indicate an alternative mode of PARP-1 activation in the absence of DNA damage by neurotrophin-induced signaling mechanisms. PARP-1 was activated in rat cerebral cortical neurons briefly exposed to NGF-related nerve growth factors and to the neuroprotective peptides NAP (the peptide NAPVSIPQ, derived from the activity-dependent neuroprotective protein ADNP) and ADNF-9 (the peptide SALLRSIPA, derived from the activity-dependent neurotrophic factor ADNF) In addition, polyADP-ribosylation was involved in the neurotrophic activity of NGF-induced and NAP-induced neurite outgrowth in differentiating pheochromocytoma 12 cells as well as in the neuroprotective activity of NAP in neurons treated with the Alzheimer's disease neurotoxin beta-amyloid. A fast loosening of the highly condensed chromatin structure by polyADP-ribosylation of histone H1, which renders DNA accessible to transcription and repair, may underlie the role of polyADP-ribosylation in neurotrophic activity.

A Novel Localization of the G-Protein-Coupled CysLT1 Receptor in the Nucleus of Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells

Searching for a link between inflammation and colon cancer, we have found that the inflammatory mediator leukotriene D4 (LTD4), via its receptor CysLT1, induces cyclooxygenase-2 expression, survival, and proliferation in intestinal epithelial cells. In conjunction with our previous observation that CysLT1 receptor expression is increased in colorectal adenocarcinomas, we here found an increased nuclear localization of the CysLT1 receptor in colorectal adenocarcinomas. This novel discovery of CysLT1 receptors in the nucleus was further analyzed. It was found to be located in the outer nuclear membrane in colon cancer cells and in the nontransformed epithelial cell line Int 407 cells by Western blot and electron microscopy. Cancer cells displayed higher amounts of the nuclear CysLT1 receptor, but prolonged LTD4 exposure induced its nuclear translocation in nontransformed cells. Truncation of a nuclear localization sequence abrogated this translocation as well as the LTD4-induced proliferative response. In accordance, nuclear CysLT1 receptors exhibited proliferative extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling. The significance of these experimental findings is supported by the observed correlation between the proliferative marker Ki-67 and nuclear CysLT1 receptor localization in colorectal adenocarcinomas. The present findings indicate that LTD4 cannot only be synthesized but also signal proliferation through nuclear CysLT1 receptors, stressing the importance of leukotrienes in inflammation-induced colon carcinogenesis.

A 120 kDa Nuclear Phospholipase Cγ1 Protein Fragment Is Stimulated in Vivo by EGF Signal Phosphorylating Nuclear Membrane EGFR

Intraperitoneal injection of epidermal growth factor (EGF) into mice resulted in the phosphorylation of liver nuclei phospholipase Cgamma1 (PLCgamma1) at the tyrosine, coincident with the time course of nuclear membrane epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation. The function of PLCgamma1 in mice liver nuclei was attributed to a 120 kDa protein fragment. This 120 kDa protein was immunoprecipitated with the isozyme specific PLCgamma1 antibody and was found to be sensitive to a PLCgamma1 specific blocking peptide. The 10-partial sequence analysis revealed that the 120 kDa protein contains the PELCQVSLSE sequence at its N-terminal end and the RTRVNGDNRL sequence at its C-terminal end, which reveals that this protein is a major fragment of PLCgamma1 devoid of an amino acid portion at the N-terminal end. The tyrosine-phosphorylated 120 kDa protein interacts with activated EGFR, binds phosphatidylinositol-3-OH-kinase enhancer (PIKE), enhances nuclear phosphatidylinositol-3-OH-kinase (PI[3]K) activity, and generates diacylglycerol (DAG) in response to the EGF signal to the nucleus in vivo. The immunoprecipitated 120 kDa protein fragment displayed phosphatidylinositol (PI) hydrolysis activity. These results establish the capacity of EGF-triggered nuclear signaling which is mediated by EGFR itself, located on the inner nuclear membrane. This is the first report identifying a 120 kDa PLCgamma1 fragment generated in vivo in the nucleus and capable of discharging the function of nuclear PLCgamma1.

Hypoxic up-regulation of triosephosphate isomerase expression in mouse brain capillary endothelial cells

A protein with a molecular mass of 27kDa was induced by hypoxia in a mouse brain capillary endothelial cell line and identified as triosephosphate isomerase (TPI) by amino-terminal sequencing. Hypoxia caused an elevation of the TPI protein level, concomitant with an increase of the TPI mRNA level. However, hypoxia resulted in an insufficient elevation of TPI activity level, compared to an increase of TPI protein level. When cells expressing the recombinant TPI protein with histidine tag were exposed to hypoxia and the TPI protein was affinity-purified, the catalytic activity (specific activity) of the TPI protein purified from hypoxic cells was substantially lower than that obtained from normoxic cells. In addition, three TPI isoforms with an electrophoretic multiplicity were found; two of the three isoforms were substantially increased in response to the hypoxia, but the level of the most acidic isoform was barely changed. The induction of TPI gene expression by hypoxia was suppressed by (1) a chelator of intracellular Ca(2+), (2) a blocker of non-selective cation channels, (3) a blocker of Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchangers, (4) an inhibitor of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases, and (5) an inhibitor of c-jun/AP-1 activation.

Nuclear inositides: facts and perspectives

Strong evidence has been accumulating over the last 15 years suggesting that phosphoinositides, which are involved in the regulation of a large variety of cellular processes in the cytoplasm and in the plasma membrane, are present within the nucleus. Several advances have resulted in the discovery that nuclear phosphoinositides are involved in cell growth and differentiation. Remarkably, the nuclear inositide metabolism is regulated independently from that present elsewhere in the cell. Although nuclear inositol lipids generate second messengers such as diacylglycerol and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, it is becoming increasingly clear that in the nucleus polyphosphoinositides may act by themselves to influence pre-mRNA splicing and chromatin structure. This review aims at highlighting the most significant and updated findings about inositol lipid metabolism in the nucleus.

The calcium component of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-stimulated luteinizing hormone subunit gene transcription is mediated by calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II

Calcium influx plays a critical role in GnRH regulation of rat LH subunit gene transcription, but the site(s) of action are undefined. We investigated the potential of GnRH acting through calcium to activate calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II (Ca/CaMK II) in mouse gonadotrope-derived LbetaT2 cells. GnRH stimulated Ca/CaMK II beta subunit activity 3-fold 2 min after treatment and returned to control values by 45 min. The Ca/CaMK II response to GnRH was blocked by administration of the Ca/CaMK II-specific inhibitor, KN-93. The calcium channel activator Bay K 8644 stimulated a 3-fold increase in Ca/CaMK II activity, similar to GnRH. Blocking calcium influx with nimodipine or depleting intracellular calcium storage pools with thapsigargin each resulted in a partial suppression of GnRH-induced activation of Ca/CaMK II, and in combination, completely suppressed the Ca/CaMK II response to GnRH. KN-93 and nimodipine also suppressed alpha-subunit and LHbeta promoter responses to GnRH by 40-60%. LHbeta promoter constructs containing either proximal or proximal and distal GnRH-responsive regions were sensitive to inhibition. These data show for the first time that Ca/CaMK II activation plays an important role in the transmission of GnRH signals from the plasma membrane to the LH subunit genes.

Nuclear lipid signalling

During the past twenty years, evidence has accumulated for the presence of phospholipids within the nuclei of eukaryotic cells. These phospholipids are distinct from those that are obviously present in the nuclear envelope. The best characterized of the intranuclear lipids are the inositol lipids that form the components of a phosphoinositide-phospholipase C cycle. However, exactly as has been discovered in the cytoplasm, this is just part of a complex picture that involves many other lipids and functions.

Cell spreading controls endoplasmic and nuclear calcium: a physical gene regulation pathway from the cell surface to the nucleus

Cells attaching to an extracellular matrix through integrins flatten out (spread) on the matrix, eliciting cellular signals needed for survival. We show that the shape of the nucleus changes and the nuclear calcium level increases in spreading cells. Moreover, cell spreading and osmotic stretching of isolated nuclei cause release of perinuclear Ca(2+), and patch clamping of nuclei reveals stretch-activated Ca(2+) permeable channels. Gene expression assays with myocyte enhancer factor 2, which is activated by calmodulin-dependent kinase IV, indicate that the elevation in nuclear Ca(2+) is functionally significant. We propose a mechano-transduction pathway in which spreading-induced nuclear stretching releases Ca(2+) from the perinuclear space, and the resulting Ca(2+) elevation in the nucleus provokes changes in gene expression.

In vivo nuclear Ca2+-ATPase phosphorylation triggers intermediate size molecular transport to the nucleus

Outer nuclear membrane is endowed with a SERCA type Ca(2+)-ATPase which pumps calcium into the nuclear envelope lumen and creates calcium stores. Variation in this calcium pool, among other things, regulates nuclear transport. The transport of Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS)-containing molecules into the nucleus is well established. Intermediate size molecules lacking an NLS translocate to the nucleus and its mechanism remains obscure. It is observed here that the treatment of HEK 293 cells in culture with dibutyryl cyclic AMP (db-cAMP) or forskolin (FK) triggered transport of Calcium Green 10 kDa dextran into the nucleus. Under similar conditions Fluo-3-AM accumulated around the nuclei. cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylated 105 kDa nuclear Ca(2+)-ATPase (NCA) which served as a trigger for NLS-independent transport into the nucleus.

Nuclear and cytosolic calcium are regulated independently

Nuclear calcium (Ca(2+)) regulates a number of important cellular processes, including gene transcription, growth, and apoptosis. However, it is unclear whether Ca(2+) signaling is regulated differently in the nucleus and cytosol. To investigate this possibility, we examined subcellular mechanisms of Ca(2+) release in the HepG2 liver cell line. The type II isoform of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptor (InsP(3)R) was expressed to a similar extent in the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus, whereas the type III InsP(3)R was concentrated in the endoplasmic reticulum, and the type I isoform was not expressed. Ca(2+) signals induced by low InsP(3) concentrations started earlier or were larger in the nucleus than in the cytosol, indicating higher sensitivity of nuclear Ca(2+) stores for InsP(3). Nuclear InsP(3)R channels were active at lower InsP(3) concentrations than InsP(3)R from cytosol. Enriched expression of type II InsP(3)R in the nucleus results in greater sensitivity of the nucleus to InsP(3), thus providing a mechanism for independent regulation of Ca(2+)-dependent processes in this cellular compartment.

Presence of neuropeptide Y and the Y1 receptor in the plasma membrane and nuclear envelope of human endocardial endothelial cells: modulation of intracellular calcium

The aims of the present study were to investigate the presence and distribution of NPY and the Y1 receptor in endocardial endothelial cells (EECs), to verify if EECs can release NPY, and to determine if the effect of NPY on intracellular calcium is mediated via the Y1 receptor. Immunofluorescence, 3-D confocal microscopy and radioimmunoassay techniques were used on 20-week-old human fetal EECs. Our results showed that NPY and the Y1 receptor are present in human EECs (hEECs) and that their distributions are similar, the fluorescence labelling being higher in the nucleus and more particularly at the level of the nuclear envelope when compared with the cytosol. Using radioimmunoassay, we demonstrated that EECs are a source of NPY and can secrete this peptide upon a sustained increase of intracellular calcium ([Ca]i). Using fluo-3 and 3-D confocal microscopy technique, superfusion of hEECs as well as EECs isolated from rat adult hearts with increasing concentrations of NPY induced a dose-dependent, sustained increase in free cytosolic and nuclear Ca2+ levels. This effect of NPY on EEC [Ca]i was completely reversible upon washout of NPY and was partially blocked by BIBP3226, a selective Y1 receptor antagonist. The results suggest that NPY and Y1 receptors are present in the EECs of 20-week-old human fetal heart and they share the same distribution and localization inside the cell. In addition, EECs are able to secrete NPY in response to an increase in [Ca]i, and the Y1 receptor as well as other NPY receptors seem to participate in mediating the effects of NPY on [Ca]i in these cells. Thus, NPY released by EECs may modulate excitation-secretion coupling of these cells.

Hypoxia up-regulates glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in mouse brain capillary endothelial cells: involvement of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger

The molecular regulatory mechanisms and the characterization of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) in hypoxia were studied in a mouse brain capillary endothelial cell line, MBEC4. Activation of GAPDH gene expression by hypoxia was suppressed by an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator and inhibited by a non-selective cation channel blocker or a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX) blocker. Sequencing of reverse transcription-PCR products demonstrated that MBEC4 expressed an mRNA encoding NCX3, which functions even under cellular ATP-depleted conditions, in addition to mRNAs encoding NCX1 and NCX2. The inhibition of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases or c-Jun/AP-1 activation caused a significant decrease in the activation of GAPDH mRNA by hypoxia. These results suggest that hypoxia stimulates Ca(2+) influx through non-selective cation channels and causes the reverse operation of the three NCX isoforms, and consequently, increased intracellular Ca(2+) up-regulates GAPDH gene expression through an AP-1-dependent pathway. Furthermore, subcellular fractionation experiments showed that hypoxia increased GAPDH proteins not only in the cytosolic fraction, but also in the nuclear and particulate fractions, in which GAPDH should play no roles in glycolysis. However, the GAPDH activity did not rise in proportion to the increase of GAPDH protein by hypoxia even in the cytosolic fraction. These results suggest that not all hypoxia-induced GAPDH molecules contribute to glycolysis.

Regulated and constitutive activation of specific signalling pathways by the human S1P5 receptor

1 We tested the hypothesis, whether G Protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) may differentially regulate specific signalling pathways by constitutive and agonist-induced activation using the human sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor S1P(5) as a model. 2 S1P(5) receptor-expressing HEK293 cells exhibited a high degree of basal activity for both inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) when cultured in serum, which contains high levels of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). However, basal activity was independent of the presence of S1P: (i) constitutive activity remained when cells were cultured in delipidated serum, (ii) addition of S1P to delipidated serum did not increase basal S1P(5) receptor signalling. 3 Conversely, constitutive inhibition of forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase was further enhanced by S1P in S1P(5)-HEK293 cells. 4 Transfection of several mammalian cell lines (CHO-K1, HEK293, NIH-3T3, RH7777) with the S1P(5) receptor induced cell rounding, which was more pronounced in the presence of S1P-containing serum. Rounded cell morphology did not correlate with apoptotic cell death, but led to detachment of cells. 5 Cell surface ELISA assays showed that a fraction of plasma membrane S1P(5) receptors were dose-dependently internalized with S1P. 6 These data reveal that intrinsic inhibition of unstimulated adenylyl cyclase or ERK activity by the S1P(5) receptor is insensitive to ligand modulation. Conversely, effects on forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase, cell morphology and internalization can be further augmented with S1P. Our results suggest that different signal transduction pathways are not equally activated through constitutively active GPCRs with promiscuous signalling characteristics.

Nuclear prostaglandin signaling system: biogenesis and actions via heptahelical receptors

Prostaglandins are ubiquitous lipid mediators that play pivotal roles in cardiovascular homeostasis, reproduction, and inflammation, as well as in many important cellular processes including gene expression and cell proliferation. The mechanism of action of these lipid messengers is thought to be primarily dependent on their interaction with specific cell surface receptors that belong to the heptahelical transmembrane spanning G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. Accumulating evidence suggests that these receptors may co-localize at the cell nucleus where they can modulate gene expression through a series of biochemical events. In this context, we have recently demonstrated that prostaglandin E2-EP3 receptors display an atypical nuclear compartmentalization in cerebral microvascular endothelial cells. Stimulation of these nuclear EP3 receptors leads to an increase of eNOS RNA in a cell-free isolated nuclear system. This review will emphasize these findings and describe how nuclear prostaglandin receptors, notably EP3 receptors, may affect gene expression, specifically of eNOS, by identifying putative transducing elements located within this organelle. The potential sources of lipid ligand activators for these intracellular sites will also be addressed. The expressional control of G-protein-coupled receptors located at the perinuclear envelope constitutes a novel and distinctive mode of gene regulation.

Formation of AP-1 transcription factors during learning in Helix

Gel shift assays were used to study the formation of transcription factors of the AP-1 family in the CNS of Helix during the acquisition of a conditioned defensive reflex based on food aversion. Increases in the DNA-binding activity of AP-1 factors were seen 1-3 h after training. Modeling of "learning" in an in situ system (incubation of the CNS in the presence of serotonin and the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 or the protein kinase C activator phorbol ester (TPA)) also increased the DNA-binding activity of this transcription complex. The DNA-binding activity induced by serotonin acting alone was significantly less than that in controls, while that in the presence of A23187 and TPA was the same as or less than that in controls. The calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase inhibitor KN62 produced significant suppression of the effects of simultaneous exposure to serotonin and calcium on the activation of transcription factors of the AP-1, while greater suppression was obtained with the mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK) inhibitor PD98059. Cooperative induction of the activation of AP-1 transcription factors in the CNS of the common snail by the serotonin-induced and calcium-dependent regulatory systems may be a mechanism underlying the formation of conditioned defensive reflexes in these animals. Lesions of the formation of transcription factors of the AP-1 family in animals unable to learn defensive forms of behavioral plasticity may be explained in terms of the presence of inhibitory forms of transcription factors interacting with the SRE element.

Regulation of voltage-dependent sodium channel expression in adrenal chromaffin cells: involvement of multiple calcium signaling pathways

The density and electrical activity of cell surface voltage-dependent Na(+) channels are key determinants regulating the neuronal plasticity including development, differentiation, and regeneration. Abnormalities of Na(+) channels are associated with various neurological diseases. In this paper, we review the regulatory mechanisms of cell surface Na(+) channel expression mediated by Ca(2+) signaling pathways in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Sustained, but not transient, elevation of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration reduced the number of cell surface Na(+) channels. The reduction of Na(+) channels was suppressed by an inhibitor of calpain, a Ca(2+)-dependent protease, and by an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC). The activation of conventional PKC-alpha and novel PKC-epsilon reduced cell surface Na(+) channels by the acceleration of internalization of the channels and by the increased degradation of Na(+) channel alpha-subunit mRNA, respectively. On the contrary, the activation of PKC-epsilon increased Na(+) channel beta(1)-subunit mRNA level. The inhibition of calcineurin, a Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein phosphatase 2B, by immunosuppressants upregulated cell surface Na(+) channels by both stimulating externalization and inhibiting internalization of the channels without changing Na(+) channel alpha- and beta(1)-subunit mRNA levels. Thus, the signal transduction pathways mediated by intracellular Ca(2+) modulate cell surface Na(+) channel expression via multiple Ca(2+)-dependent events, and the changes in the intracellular vesicular trafficking are the important mechanisms in the regulation of Na(+) channel expression.

Nuclear lipid signaling

Abundant evidence now supports the existence of phospholipids in the nucleus that resist washing of nuclei with detergents. These lipids are apparently not in the nuclear envelope as part of a bilayer membrane, but are actually within the nucleus in the form of proteolipid complexes with unidentified proteins. This review discusses the experimental evidence that attempts to explain their existence. Among these nuclear lipids are the polyphosphoinositol lipids which, together with the enzymes that synthesize them, form an intranuclear phospholipase C (PI-PLC) signaling system that generates diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3]. The isoforms of PI-PLC that are involved in this signaling system, and how they are regulated, are not yet entirely clear. Generation of DAG within the nucleus is believed to recruit protein kinase C (PKC) to the nucleus to phosphorylate intranuclear proteins. Generation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 may mobilize Ca2+ from the space between the nuclear membranes and thus increase nucleoplasmic Ca2+. Less well understood are the increasing number of variations and complications on the "simple" idea of a PI-PLC system. These include, all apparently within the nucleus, (i) two routes of synthesis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P2]; (ii) two sources of DAG, one from the PI-PLC pathway and the other probably from phosphatidylcholine; (iii) several isoforms of PKC translocating to nuclei; (iv) increases in activity of the PI-PLC pathway at two points in the cell cycle; (v) a pathway of phosphorylation of Ins(1,4,5)P3, which may have several functions, including a role in the transfer of mRNA out of the nucleus; and (vi) the possible existence of other lipid signaling pathways that may include sphingolipids, phospholipase A2, and, in particular, 3-phosphorylated inositol lipids, which are now emerging as possible major players in nuclear signaling.

Different signaling pathways control acute induction versus long-term repression of LHbeta transcription by GnRH

GnRH regulates pituitary gonadotropin gene expression through GnRH receptor activation of the protein kinase C (PKC) and calcium signaling cascades. The pulsatile pattern of GnRH release is crucial for induction of LHbeta-subunit (LHbeta) gene expression; however, continuous prolonged GnRH exposure leads to repression of LHbeta gene transcription. Although in part, long-term repression may be due to receptor down-regulation, the molecular mechanisms of this differential regulation of LHbeta transcription are unknown. Using transfection into the LH-secreting immortalized mouse gonadotrope cell line (LbetaT4), we have demonstrated that LHbeta gene transcription is increased by acute activation (6 h) of GnRH receptor or PKC but not calcium influx; in contrast long-term activation (24 h) of GnRH receptor, PKC, or calcium influx each repress LHbeta transcription. Whereas blockade of PKC prevented the acute action of GnRH and unmasked an acute repression of LHbeta transcription by calcium, it did not prevent long-term repression by GnRH or calcium. Removal of calcium resulted in potentiation of acute GnRH and PKC induction of LHbeta gene expression but prevented long-term repression by GnRH and reduced long-term repression by either calcium or 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA). We conclude that GnRH uses PKC for acute induction, and calcium signaling is responsible for long-term repression of LHbeta gene expression by GnRH. Furthermore, analysis of the responsiveness of truncated and mutated LHbeta promoter regions demonstrated that not only do acute induction and long-term repression use different signaling systems, but they also use different target sequences for regulating the LHbeta gene.

Contributions of protein kinase A anchoring proteins to compartmentation of cAMP signaling in the heart

The cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) transduces signals in the heart initiated by beta(1)-adrenergic, G-protein-coupled receptors after norepinephrine, sympathetic stimulation. Signaling through this pathway results in a characteristic set of cellular responses, including increases in ion fluxes and contractile strength, mobilization of energy stores, and changes in gene expression. Not all receptors that activate adenylate cyclase and increase cAMP levels, however, cause the cardiac myocyte to react in this manner. Research in the field of signal transduction over the last 25 years has addressed this issue of specificity in signaling by diffusable second messengers. PKA is in part targeted to discrete cellular locations by A-kinase anchoring proteins. Through anchoring and formation of multienzyme complexes, specific, localized signal transduction is possible. I discuss in this review recent advances in the understanding of PKA signaling complexes in the cardiac myocyte.

Calcium, calmodulin, and calcium-calmodulin kinase II: heartbeat to heartbeat and beyond

Calcium (Ca) is the key regulator of cardiac contraction during excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling. However, differences exist between the amount of Ca being transported into the myocytes upon electrical stimulation as compared to Ca released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). Moreover, alterations in E-C coupling occur in cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In addition to the direct effects of Ca on the myofilaments, Ca plays a pivotal role in activation of a number of Ca-dependent proteins or second messengers, which can modulate E-C coupling. Of these proteins, calmodulin (CaM) and Ca-CaM-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) are of special interest in the heart because of their role of modulating Ca influx, SR Ca release, and SR Ca uptake during E-C coupling. Indeed, CaM and CaMKII may be associated with some ion channels and Ca transporters and both can modulate acute cellular Ca handling. In addition to the changes in Ca, CaM and CaMKII signals from beat-to-beat, changes may occur on a longer time scale. These may occur over seconds to minutes involving phosphorylation/dephosphorylation reactions, and even a longer time frame in altering gene transcription (excitation-transcription (E-T) coupling) in hypertrophic signaling and heart failure. Here we review the classical role of Ca in E-C coupling and extend this view to the role of the Ca-dependent proteins CaM and CaMKII in modulating E-C coupling and their contribution to E-T coupling.

Epidermal growth factor-mediated activation of the ETS domain transcription factor Elk-1 requires nuclear calcium

Cytosolic and nuclear Ca(2+) have been shown to differentially regulate transcription. However, the impact of spatially distinct Ca(2+) signals on mitogen-activated protein kinase-mediated gene expression remains unknown. Here we investigated the role of nuclear and cytosolic Ca(2+) signals in epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced transactivation of the ternary complex factor Elk-1 using a GAL4-Elk-1 construct. EGF increased Ca(2+) in both the nucleus and cytosol of HepG2 or 293 cells. Pretreatment with the intracellular Ca(2+) chelator bis(2-aminophenyl)ethyleneglycol-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid significantly reduced EGF-induced transactivation of Elk-1, indicating that EGF-stimulated Elk-1 transcriptional activity is dependent on intracellular Ca(2+). To determine the relative contribution of nuclear and cytosolic Ca(2+) signals during EGF-mediated Elk-1 transactivation, Ca(2+) signals in either compartment were selectively impaired by targeted expression of the Ca(2+)-binding protein parvalbumin to either the nucleus or cytosol. Suppression of nuclear but not cytosolic Ca(2+) signals inhibited EGF-induced transactivation of Elk-1. However, suppression of nuclear Ca(2+) signals did not affect the ability of ERK either to become phosphorylated or to undergo translocation to the nucleus in response to EGF. Elk-1 phosphorylation and nuclear localization following EGF stimulation were also unaffected by suppressing nuclear Ca(2+) signals. These results suggest that nuclear Ca(2+) is required for EGF-mediated transcriptional activation of Elk-1 and that phosphorylation of Elk-1 alone is not sufficient to induce its transcriptional activation in response to EGF. Thus, subcellular targeting of parvalbumin reveals a distinct role for nuclear Ca(2+) signals in mitogen-activated protein kinase-mediated gene transcription.

Confocal imaging of subcellular Ca2+ concentrations using a dual-excitation ratiometric indicator based on green fluorescent protein

Dual-excitation ratiometric dyes are excited alternately at two different wavelengths, but the emission is collected at a single fixed wavelength. Therefore, the pair of intensity measurements must be collected sequentially. Ratiometric-pericam is a fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator based on a chimeric fusion protein of circularly permuted green fluorescent protein and calmodulin. Upon binding to calcium, its excitation peak shifts from 415 nm to 494 nm. Ca(2+) imaging using ratiometric-pericam was thought to be inadequate to follow very fast Ca(2+) dynamics or Ca(2+) changes in highly motile cell samples; however, we describe a technique that allows high spatial and time resolution of images acquired with ratiometric-pericam. To obtain confocal images of Ca(2+) using ratiometric-pericam, we established a system in which two laser beams (excitation 408 nm and 488 nm) are alternated on every scanning line under the control of two acousto-optic tunable filters. This system increases the rate at which ratio measurements are done to 200 Hz, and provides confocal images at 1 to 10 Hz depending on the image size. The ratio images are free from noise caused by the fluctuation of laser power, because the system is equipped with a violet laser diode (408 nm) and a diode-pumped solid-state laser (488 nm), both of which are stable. We visualized the dynamic propagation of Ca(2+) waves from the cytosol to the nucleus and changes in Ca(2+) concentrations in motile mitochondria of HeLa cells. We demonstrate that this new confocal imaging system expands the range of potential applications of ratiometric-pericam and other dual-excitation ratiometric indicators.

Formation of C/EBP transcription factors and possible pathways for controlling their activity during learning in Helix

Formation of a conditioned defensive reflex in the common snail is accompanied by activation of DNA-binding transcription factors of the C/EBP family. Incubation of the CNS with serotonin, which imitates the effects of conditioning, and stimulation of adenylate cyclase with forskolin also increase the efficiency with which these transcription complexes are formed. Induction of protein kinase C with phorbol ester had no stimulating effect on the formation of C/EBP factors. However, simultaneous treatment with phorbol ester and serotonin produced some increase in the cAMP-inducible effects on the activation of C/EBP transcription factors. Larger increases in the DNA-binding activity of transcription factors of the C/EBP family in response to stimulation of the cAMP-dependent pathway were seen in conditions of elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentrations (by incubation of the CNS with the calcium ionophore A23187 and forskolin). Thus, it is possible that the Ca2+ and cAMP-dependent regulatory systems converge, leading to increases in the efficiency of the formation of C/EBP transcription complexes, which may reflect the interaction of stimuli of different modalities during learning.