Mammalian phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C

The relative importance of platelet integrins in hemostasis, thrombosis and beyond

Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors composed of α and β chains, with an N-terminal extracellular domain forming a globular head corresponding to the ligand binding site. Integrins regulate various cellular functions including adhesion, migration, proliferation, spreading and apoptosis. On platelets, integrins play a central role in adhesion and aggregation on subendothelial matrix proteins of the vascular wall, thereby ensuring hemostasis. Platelet integrins belong either to the β1 family (α2β1, α5β1 and α6β1) or to the β3 family (αIIbβ3 and αvβ3). On resting platelets, integrins can engage their ligands when the latter are immobilized but not in their soluble form. The effects of various agonists promote an inside-out signal in platelets, increasing the affinity of integrins for their ligands and conveying a modest signal reinforcing platelet activation, called outside-in signaling. This outside-in signal ensures platelet adhesion, shape change, granule secretion and aggregation. In this review, we examine the role of each platelet integrin in hemostatic plug formation, hemostasis and arterial thrombosis and also beyond these classical functions, notably in tumor metastasis and sepsis.

Phospholipase C: underrated players in microbial infections

During bacterial infections, one or more virulence factors are required to support the survival, growth, and colonization of the pathogen within the host, leading to the symptomatic characteristic of the disease. The outcome of bacterial infections is determined by several factors from both host as well as pathogen origin. Proteins and enzymes involved in cellular signaling are important players in determining the outcome of host-pathogen interactions. phospholipase C (PLCs) participate in cellular signaling and regulation by virtue of their ability to hydrolyze membrane phospholipids into di-acyl-glycerol (DAG) and inositol triphosphate (IP3), which further causes the activation of other signaling pathways involved in various processes, including immune response. A total of 13 PLC isoforms are known so far, differing in their structure, regulation, and tissue-specific distribution. Different PLC isoforms have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases; however, their roles in infectious diseases are not clearly understood. Many studies have suggested the prominent roles of both host and pathogen-derived PLCs during infections. PLCs have also been shown to contribute towards disease pathogenesis and the onset of disease symptoms. In this review, we have discussed the contribution of PLCs as a determinant of the outcome of host-pathogen interaction and pathogenesis during bacterial infections of human importance.

Phospholipase C

Phospholipase C (PLC) family members constitute a family of diverse enzymes. Thirteen different family members have been cloned. These family members have unique structures that mediate various functions. Although PLC family members all appear to signal through the bi-products of cleaving phospholipids, it is clear that each family member, and at times each isoform, contributes to unique cellular functions. This chapter provides a review of the current literature on PLC. In addition, references have been provided for more in-depth information regarding areas that are not discussed including tyrosine kinase activation of PLC. Understanding the roles of the individual PLC enzymes, and their distinct cellular functions, will lead to a better understanding of the physiological roles of these enzymes in the development of diseases and the maintenance of homeostasis.

Hypertrophy of human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes supported by positive feedback between Ca2+ and diacylglycerol signals

Human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes develop pronounced hypertrophy in response to angiotensin-2, endothelin-1, and a selected mix of three fatty acids. All three of these responses are accompanied by increases in both basal cytoplasmic Ca2+ and diacylglycerol, quantified with the Ca2+ sensor Fluo-4 and a FRET-based diacylglycerol sensor expressed in these cardiomyocytes. The heart glycoside, ouabain (30 nM), and a recently developed inhibitor of diacylglycerol lipases, DO34 (1 μM), cause similar hypertrophy responses, and both responses are accompanied by equivalent increases of basal Ca2+ and diacylglycerol. These results together suggest that basal Ca2+ and diacylglycerol form a positive feedback signaling loop that promotes execution of cardiac growth programs in these human myocytes. Given that basal Ca2+ in myocytes depends strongly on the Na+ gradient, we also tested whether nanomolar ouabain concentrations might stimulate Na+/K+ pumps, as described by others, and thereby prevent hypertrophy. However, stimulatory effects of nanomolar ouabain (1.5 nM) were not verified on Na+/K+ pump currents in stem cell-derived myocytes, nor did nanomolar ouabain block hypertrophy induced by endothelin-1. Thus, low-dose ouabain is not a "protective" intervention under the conditions of these experiments in this human myocyte model. To summarize, the major aim of this study has been to characterize the progression of hypertrophy in human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiac myocytes in dependence on diacylglycerol and Na+ gradient changes, developing a case that positive feedback coupling between these mechanisms plays an important role in the initiation of hypertrophy programs.

Secretory Phospholipases A2 in Plants

Secreted phospholipases (sPLA2s) in plants are a growing group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of sn-2 glycerophospholipids to lysophospholipids and free fatty acids. Until today, around only 20 sPLA2s were reported from plants. This review discusses the newly acquired information on plant sPLA2s including molecular, biochemical, catalytic, and functional aspects. The comparative analysis also includes phylogenetic, evolutionary, and tridimensional structure. The observations with emphasis in Glycine max sPLA2 are compared with the available data reported for all plants sPLA2s and with those described for animals (mainly from pancreatic juice and venoms sources).

Phospholipases: An Overview

Phospholipases are lipolytic enzymes that hydrolyze phospholipid substrates at specific ester bonds. Phospholipases are widespread in nature and play very diverse roles from aggression in snake venom to signal transduction, lipid mediator production, and metabolite digestion in humans. Phospholipases vary considerably in structure, function, regulation, and mode of action. Tremendous advances in understanding the structure and function of phospholipases have occurred in the last decades. This introductory chapter is aimed at providing a general framework of the current understanding of phospholipases and a discussion of their mechanisms of action and emerging biological functions.

The structure of a calcium-dependent phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C fromPseudomonassp. 62186, the first from a Gram-negative bacterium

Bacterial phosphoinositide-specific phospholipases C (PI-PLCs) are the smallest members of the PI-PLC family, which includes much larger mammalian enzymes responsible for signal transduction as well as enzymes from protozoan parasites, yeast and plants. Eukaryotic PI-PLCs have calcium in the active site, but this is absent in the known structures of Gram-positive bacteria, where its role is instead played by arginine. In addition to their use in a number of industrial applications, the bacterial enzymes attract special interest because they can serve as convenient models of the catalytic domains of eukaryotic enzymes forin vitroactivity studies. Here, the structure of a PI-PLC fromPseudomonassp. 62186 is reported, the first from a Gram-negative bacterium and the first of a native bacterial PI-PLC with calcium present in the active site. Solution of the structure posed particular problems owing to the low sequence identity of available homologous structures. Its dependence on calcium for catalysis makes this enzyme a better model for studies of the mammalian PI-PLCs than the previously used calcium-independent bacterial PI-PLCs.

Psychedelics

Psychedelics (serotonergic hallucinogens) are powerful psychoactive substances that alter perception and mood and affect numerous cognitive processes. They are generally considered physiologically safe and do not lead to dependence or addiction. Their origin predates written history, and they were employed by early cultures in many sociocultural and ritual contexts. After the virtually contemporaneous discovery of (5R,8R)-(+)-lysergic acid-N,N-diethylamide (LSD)-25 and the identification of serotonin in the brain, early research focused intensively on the possibility that LSD and other psychedelics had a serotonergic basis for their action. Today there is a consensus that psychedelics are agonists or partial agonists at brain serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptors, with particular importance on those expressed on apical dendrites of neocortical pyramidal cells in layer V. Several useful rodent models have been developed over the years to help unravel the neurochemical correlates of serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor activation in the brain, and a variety of imaging techniques have been employed to identify key brain areas that are directly affected by psychedelics. Recent and exciting developments in the field have occurred in clinical research, where several double-blind placebo-controlled phase 2 studies of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in patients with cancer-related psychosocial distress have demonstrated unprecedented positive relief of anxiety and depression. Two small pilot studies of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy also have shown positive benefit in treating both alcohol and nicotine addiction. Recently, blood oxygen level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging and magnetoencephalography have been employed for in vivo brain imaging in humans after administration of a psychedelic, and results indicate that intravenously administered psilocybin and LSD produce decreases in oscillatory power in areas of the brain's default mode network.

Recombinant Lipases and Phospholipases and Their Use as Biocatalysts for Industrial Applications

Lipases and phospholipases are interfacial enzymes that hydrolyze hydrophobic ester linkages of triacylglycerols and phospholipids, respectively. In addition to their role as esterases, these enzymes catalyze a plethora of other reactions; indeed, lipases also catalyze esterification, transesterification and interesterification reactions, and phospholipases also show acyltransferase, transacylase and transphosphatidylation activities. Thus, lipases and phospholipases represent versatile biocatalysts that are widely used in various industrial applications, such as for biodiesels, food, nutraceuticals, oil degumming and detergents; minor applications also include bioremediation, agriculture, cosmetics, leather and paper industries. These enzymes are ubiquitous in most living organisms, across animals, plants, yeasts, fungi and bacteria. For their greater availability and their ease of production, microbial lipases and phospholipases are preferred to those derived from animals and plants. Nevertheless, traditional purification strategies from microbe cultures have a number of disadvantages, which include non-reproducibility and low yields. Moreover, native microbial enzymes are not always suitable for biocatalytic processes. The development of molecular techniques for the production of recombinant heterologous proteins in a host system has overcome these constraints, as this allows high-level protein expression and production of new redesigned enzymes with improved catalytic properties. These can meet the requirements of specific industrial process better than the native enzymes. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of the structural and functional features of lipases and phospholipases, to describe the recent advances in optimization of the production of recombinant lipases and phospholipases, and to summarize the information available relating to their major applications in industrial processes.

VEGF Signals through ATF6 and PERK to promote endothelial cell survival and angiogenesis in the absence of ER stress

Accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) initiates IRE1α, ATF6, and PERK cascades, leading to a transcriptional/translational response known as unfolded protein response (UPR). Here we show that VEGF activates UPR mediators through a PLCγ-mediated crosstalk with the mTORC1 complex without accumulation of unfolded proteins in the ER. Activation of ATF6 and PERK contributes to the survival effect of VEGF on endothelial cells (ECs) by positively regulating mTORC2-mediated phosphorylation of AKT on Ser473, which is required for full activity of AKT. Low levels of CHOP allow ECs to evade the proapoptotic effect of this UPR product. Depletion of PLCγ, ATF6, or eIF2α dramatically inhibited VEGF-induced vascularization in mouse Matrigel plugs, suggesting that the ER and the UPR machinery constitute components of the VEGF signaling circuit that regulates EC survival and angiogenesis, extending their role beyond adaptation to ER stress.

Expression analysis and enzymatic characterization of phospholipase Cδ4 from olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus)

Phospholipase Cδ4 (PLCδ4) plays a significant role in cell proliferation, tumorigenesis, and in an early stage of fertilization. Despite the characterization of the mammalian PLCδ4, extensive study in aquatic organisms has not been carried out so far. Here, we performed the molecular and biochemical characterization of flatfish Paralichthys olivaceus PLCδ4 (PoPLCδ4) to understand its enzymatic properties and physiological functions. The olive flounder PLCδ4 cDNA has an open reading frame (ORF) of 2,268 bp, and encodes a 755 amino acid polypeptide with a predicted molecular weight of 86 kDa. All the characteristic domains found in mammalian PLCδ isoforms (PH domain, EF hands, an X-Y catalytic region, and a C2 domain) were found to be present in PoPLCδ4. The mRNA expression analysis of PoPLCδ4 showed that PoPLCδ4 is predominantly expressed in the brain, eye and heart tissues. Like other mammalian PLCδ proteins, the enzyme activity of recombinant PoPLCδ4 to phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bis-phosphate (PIP2) was noted to be concentration- and Ca(2+)-dependent. The structural features and biochemical characteristics of PoPLCδ4 were found to be similar to those of mammalian PLCδ4. This is the first demonstration of the expression analysis and enzymatic characterization of piscine PLCδ4.

Comparative biology of sperm factors and fertilization-induced calcium signals across the animal kingdom

Fertilization causes mature oocytes or eggs to increase their concentrations of intracellular calcium ions (Ca²⁺) in all animals that have been examined, and such Ca²⁺ elevations, in turn, provide key activating signals that are required for non-parthenogenetic development. Several lines of evidence indicate that the Ca²⁺ transients produced during fertilization in mammals and other taxa are triggered by soluble factors that sperm deliver into oocytes after gamete fusion. Thus, for a broad-based analysis of Ca²⁺ dynamics during fertilization in animals, this article begins by summarizing data on soluble sperm factors in non-mammalian species, and subsequently reviews various topics related to a sperm-specific phospholipase C, called PLCζ, which is believed to be the predominant activator of mammalian oocytes. After characterizing initiation processes that involve sperm factors or alternative triggering mechanisms, the spatiotemporal patterns of Ca²⁺ signals in fertilized oocytes or eggs are compared in a taxon-by-taxon manner, and broadly classified as either a single major transient or a series of repetitive oscillations. Both solitary and oscillatory types of fertilization-induced Ca²⁺ signals are typically propagated as global waves that depend on Ca²⁺ release from the endoplasmic reticulum in response to increased concentrations of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃). Thus, for taxa where relevant data are available, upstream pathways that elevate intraoocytic IP3 levels during fertilization are described, while other less-common modes of producing Ca²⁺ transients are also examined. In addition, the importance of fertilization-induced Ca²⁺ signals for activating development is underscored by noting some major downstream effects of these signals in various animals.

Differential distribution of phospholipase C beta isoforms and diaglycerol kinase-beta in rodents cerebella corroborates the division of unipolar brush cells into two major subtypes

Sublineage diversification of specific neural cell classes occurs in complex as well as simply organized regions of the central and peripheral nervous systems; the significance of the phenomenon, however, remains insufficiently understood. The unipolar brush cells (UBCs) are glutamatergic cerebellar interneurons that occur at high density in vestibulocerebellum. As they are classified into subsets that differ in chemical phenotypes, intrinsic properties, and lobular distribution, they represent a valuable neuronal model to study subclass diversification. In this study, we show that cerebellar UBCs of adult rats and mice form two subclasses-type I and type II UBCs-defined by somatodendritic expression of calretinin (CR), mGluR1α, phospholipases PLCβ1 and PLCβ4, and diacylglycerol kinase-beta (DGKβ). We demonstrate that PLCβ1 is associated only with the CR(+) type I UBCs, while PLCβ4 and DGKβ are exclusively present in mGluR1α(+) type II UBCs. Notably, all PLCβ4(+) UBCs, representing about 2/3 of entire UBC population, also express mGluR1α. Furthermore, our data show that the sum of CR(+) type I UBCs and mGluR1α(+) type II UBCs accounts for the entire UBC class identified with Tbr2 immunolabeling. The two UBC subtypes also show a very different albeit somehow overlapping topographical distribution as illustrated by detailed cerebellar maps in this study. Our data not only complement and extend the previous knowledge on the diversity and subclass specificity of the chemical phenotypes within the UBC population, but also provide a new angle to the understanding of the signaling networks in type I and type II UBCs.

Mammalian phospholipase C

Phospholipase C (PLC) converts phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) and diacylglycerol (DAG). DAG and IP(3) each control diverse cellular processes and are also substrates for synthesis of other important signaling molecules. PLC is thus central to many important interlocking regulatory networks. Mammals express six families of PLCs, each with both unique and overlapping controls over expression and subcellular distribution. Each PLC also responds acutely to its own spectrum of activators that includes heterotrimeric G protein subunits, protein tyrosine kinases, small G proteins, Ca(2+), and phospholipids. Mammalian PLCs are autoinhibited by a region in the catalytic TIM barrel domain that is the target of much of their acute regulation. In combination, the PLCs act as a signaling nexus that integrates numerous signaling inputs, critically governs PIP(2) levels, and regulates production of important second messengers to determine cell behavior over the millisecond to hour timescale.

Oocyte activation and phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ): diagnostic and therapeutic implications for assisted reproductive technology

Infertility affects one in seven couples globally and has recently been classified as a disease by the World Health Organisation (WHO). While in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) offers effective treatment for many infertile couples, cases exhibiting severe male infertility (19-57%) often remain difficult, if not impossible to treat. In such cases, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a technique in which a single sperm is microinjected into the oocyte, is implemented. However, 1-5% of ICSI cycles still fail to fertilise, affecting over 1000 couples per year in the UK alone. Pregnancy and delivery rates for IVF and ICSI rarely exceed 30% and 23% respectively. It is therefore imperative that Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) protocols are constantly modified by associated research programmes, in order to provide patients with the best chances of conception. Prior to fertilisation, mature oocytes are arrested in the metaphase stage of the second meiotic division (MII), which must be alleviated to allow the cell cycle, and subsequent embryogenesis, to proceed. Alleviation occurs through a series of concurrent events, collectively termed 'oocyte activation'. In mammals, oocytes are activated by a series of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) oscillations following gamete fusion. Recent evidence implicates a sperm-specific phospholipase C, PLCzeta (PLCζ), introduced into the oocyte following membrane fusion as the factor responsible. This review summarises our current understanding of oocyte activation failure in human males, and describes recent advances in our knowledge linking certain cases of male infertility with defects in PLCζ expression and activity. Systematic literature searches were performed using PubMed and the ISI-Web of Knowledge. Databases compiled by the United Nations and World Health Organisation databases (UNWHO), and the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA) were also scrutinised. It is clear that PLCζ plays a fundamental role in the activation of mammalian oocytes, and that genetic, molecular, or biochemical perturbation of this key enzyme is strongly linked to human infertility where oocyte activation is deficient. Consequently, there is significant scope for our understanding of PLCζ to be translated to the ART clinic, both as a novel therapeutic agent with which to rescue oocyte activation deficiency (OAD), or as a prognostic/diagnostic biomarker of oocyte activation ability in target sperm samples.

Phospholipase C

Phospholipase C (PLC) family members constitute a family of diverse enzymes. Thirteen different family members have been cloned. These family members have unique structures that mediate diverse functions. Although PLC family members all appear to signal through the bi-products of cleaving phospholipids, it is clear that each family member, and at times each isoform, contributes to unique cellular functions. This chapter provides a review of the current literature. In addition, references have been provided for more in depth information regarding areas that are discussed. Ultimately, understanding the roles of the individual PLC enzymes, and their distinct cellular functions, will lead to a better understanding of the development of diseases and the maintenance of homeostasis.

Starting a new life: sperm PLC-zeta mobilizes the Ca2+ signal that induces egg activation and embryo development: an essential phospholipase C with implications for male infertility

We have discovered that a single sperm protein, phospholipase C-zeta (PLCζ), can stimulate intracellular Ca(2+) signalling in the unfertilized oocyte ('egg') culminating in the initiation of embryonic development. Upon fertilization by a spermatozoon, the earliest observed signalling event in the dormant egg is a large, transient increase in free Ca(2+) concentration. The fertilized egg responds to the intracellular Ca(2+) rise by completing meiosis. In mammalian eggs, the Ca(2+) signal is delivered as a train of long-lasting cytoplasmic Ca(2+) oscillations that begin soon after gamete fusion and persist beyond the completion of meiosis. Sperm PLCζ effects Ca(2+) release from egg intracellular stores by hydrolyzing the membrane lipid PIP(2) and consequent stimulation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3) ) receptor Ca(2+) -signalling pathway, leading to egg activation and early embryogenesis. Recent advances have refined our understanding of how PLCζ induces Ca(2+) oscillations in the egg and also suggest its potential dysfunction as a cause of male infertility.

Subtype-specific roles of phospholipase C-β via differential interactions with PDZ domain proteins

Since we first identified the PLC-β isozyme, enormous studies have been conducted to investigate the functional roles of this protein (Min et al., 1993; Suh et al.,1988). It is now well-known that the four PLC-β subtypes are major effector molecules in GPCR-mediated signaling, especially for intracellular Ca2+ signaling. Nonetheless, it is still poorly understood why multiple PLC-β subtype exist. Most cells express multiple subtypes of PLC-β in different combinations, and each subtype is involved in somewhat different signaling pathways. Therefore, studying the differential roles of each PLC-β subtype is a very interesting issue. In this regard, we focus here on PDZ domain proteins which are novel PLC-β interacting proteins. As scaffolders, PDZ domain proteins recruit various target proteins ranging from membrane receptors to cytoskeletal proteins to assemble highly organized signaling complexes; this can give rise to efficiency and diversity in cellular signaling. Because PLC-β subtypes have different PDZ-binding motifs, it is possible that they are engaged with different PDZ domain proteins, and in turn participate in distinct physiological responses. To date, several PDZ domain proteins, such as the NHERF family, Shank2, and Par-3, have been reported to selectively interact with certain PLC-β subtypes and GPCRs. Systematic predictions of potential binding partners also suggests differential binding properties between PLC-β subtypes. Furthermore, we elucidated parallel signaling processes for multiple PLC-β subtypes, which still perform distinct functions resulting from differential interactions with PDZ domain proteins within a single cell. Therefore, these results highlight the novel function of PDZ domain proteins as intermediaries in subtype-specific role of PLC-β in GPCR-mediated signaling. Future studies will focus on the physiological meanings of this signaling complex formation by different PDZ domain proteins and PLC-β subtypes. It has been observed for a long time that the expression of certain PLC-β subtype fluctuates during diverse physiological conditions. For example, the expression of PLC-β1 is selectively increased during myoblast and adipocyte differentiation (Faenza et al., 2004; O'Carroll et al., 2009). Likewise, PLC-β2 is highly up-regulated during breast cancer progression and plays a critical role in cell migration and mitosis (Bertagnolo et al., 2007). Although PLC-β3 is selectively down-regulated in neuroendocrine tumors, the expression of PLC-β1 is increased in small cell lung carcinoma (Stalberg et al., 2003; Strassheim et al., 2000). In our hypothetical model, it is most likely that up- and down regulation of certain PLC-β subtypes are due to their selective coupling with specific GPCR-mediated signaling, implicated in these pathophysiologic conditions. Therefore, better understanding of selective coupling between PLC-β subtypes, PDZ domain proteins, and GPCRs will shed light on new prognosis and therapy of diverse diseases, and provide potential targets for drug development.

PLC regulation: emerging pictures for molecular mechanisms

Phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) enzymes are common signalling components linked to the activation of most cellular receptors. All PLC families are complex, modular, multi-domain proteins and together cover a broad spectrum of regulatory interactions, including direct binding to G protein subunits, small GTPases from Rho and Ras families, receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases and lipid components of cellular membranes. Recent structural determinations of PLC components and their complexes with regulatory proteins and direct mechanistic studies, together with earlier work, have provided the foundation to propose molecular mechanisms that stringently regulate PLC activity.

Lack of phospholipase C-δ1 induces skin inflammation

Phospholipase C (PLC) is a key enzyme in phosphoinositide signaling. We previously generated PLC-delta1 knockout (KO) mice and found that these mice showed remarkable hair loss caused by abnormalities in hair follicle structures. Here we show that the skin of PLC-delta1 KO mice displays typical inflammatory phenotypes, including increased dermal cellularity, leukocyte infiltration, and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, exogenously expressed PLC-delta1 attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of IL-1beta, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, in an enzymatic activity-dependent manner. Furthermore, suppression of skin inflammation by anti-inflammatory reagents cured the epidermal hyperplasia in PLC-delta1 KO mice. Taken together, these results indicate that lack of PLC-delta1 induces skin inflammation and that the epidermal hyperplasia in PLC-delta1 KO mice is caused by skin inflammation. Our results also suggest that PLC-delta1 regulates homeostasis of the immune system in skin.

The Role of X/Y Linker Region and N-terminal EF-hand Domain in Nuclear Translocation and Ca2+ Oscillation-inducing Activities of Phospholipase Cζ, a Mammalian Egg-activating Factor

Sperm-specific phospholipase C-zeta (PLCzeta) causes intracellular Ca(2+) oscillations and thereby egg activation and is accumulated into the formed pronucleus (PN) when expressed in mouse eggs by injection of cRNA encoding PLCzeta, which consists of four EF-hand domains (EF1-EF4) in the N terminus, X and Y catalytic domains, and C-terminal C2 domain. Those activities were analyzed by expressing PLCzeta mutants tagged with fluorescent protein Venus by injection of cRNA into unfertilized eggs or 1-cell embryos after fertilization. Nuclear localization signal (NLS) existed at 374-381 in the X/Y linker region. Nuclear translocation was lost by replacement of Arg(376), Lys(377), Arg(378), Lys(379), or Lys(381) with glutamate, whereas Ca(2+) oscillations were conserved. Nuclear targeting was also absent for point mutation of Lys(299) and/or Lys(301) in the C terminus of X domain, or Trp(13), Phe(14), or Val(18) in the N terminus of EF1. Ca(2+) oscillation-inducing activity was lost by the former mutation and was remarkably inhibited by the latter. A short sequence 374-383 fused with Venus showed active translocation into the nucleus of COS-7 cells, but 296-309 or 1-19 did not. Despite the presence of these special regions, both activities were deprived by deletion of not only EF1 but also EF2-4 or C2 domain. Thus, PLCzeta is driven into the nucleus primarily by the aid of NLS and putative regulatory sites, but coordinated three-dimensional structure, possibly formed by a folding in the X/Y linker and close EF/C2 contact as in PLCdelta1, seems to be required not only for enzymatic activity but also for nuclear translocation ability.

Phospholipase C-delta1 and -delta3 are essential in the trophoblast for placental development

Phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) is a key enzyme in phosphoinositide turnover and is involved in a variety of physiological functions. We analyzed PLCdelta1 knockout mice and found that PLCdelta1 is required for the maintenance of skin homeostasis. However, there were no remarkable abnormalities except hair loss and runting in PLCdelta1 knockout mice, even though PLCdelta1 is broadly distributed. Here, we report that mice lacking both PLCdelta1 and PLCdelta3 died at embryonic day 11.5 (E11.5) to E13.5. PLCdelta1/PLCdelta3 double-knockout mice exhibited severe disruption of the normal labyrinth architecture in the placenta and decreased placental vascularization, as well as abnormal proliferation and apoptosis of trophoblasts in the labyrinth area. Furthermore, PLCdelta1/PLCdelta3 double-knockout embryos supplied with a normal placenta by the tetraploid aggregation method survived beyond E14.5, clearly indicating that the embryonic lethality is caused by a defect in trophoblasts. On the basis of these results, we conclude that PLCdelta1 and PLCdelta3 are essential in trophoblasts for placental development.

Caveolin Scaffolding Peptide-1 Interferes With Norepinephrine-Induced PLC-β Activation in Cultured Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Caveolins are a family of integral membrane proteins implicated in various cell functions, including the organization and inactivation of signaling molecules of G protein-coupled receptors. We tested the ability of human caveolin scaffolding peptide-1 (CSP-1) to regulate norepinephrine- (NE) or histamine (HIS)-induced increases on intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca(2+)]i). In cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), CSP-1 inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner NE- and HIS-induced increases in [Ca(2+)]i. This effect can be explained by the fact that CSP-1 inhibited a common signaling pathway. We tested the ability of this peptide to decrease the activation of PLC-beta3 and MAPK. CSP-1 inhibited the expression of the activated form of both enzymes, suggesting a direct effect of the peptide on the signaling cascade. CSP-1 readily enters VSMC in culture, as observed when FITC-conjugated CPS-1 is added to cell culture media. Taken together, these data suggest that CSP-1 blocks the effects of NE and HIS on [Ca(2+)]i of VSMC by inhibiting the activation of PLC-beta3 and MAPK.

A Novel Phospholipase C, PLCη2, Is a Neuron-specific Isozyme

Twelve phospholipase C (PLC) isozymes have been cloned so far, and they are divided into six classes, beta-, gamma-, delta-, epsilon-, zeta-, and eta-type, on the basis of structure and activation mechanisms. Here we report the identification of a novel PLC isozyme, PLC(eta)2. PLC(eta)2 is composed of conserved domains including pleckstrin homology, EF-hand, X and Y catalytic, and C2 domains and the isozyme-specific C-terminal region. PLC(eta)2 consists of 1164 amino acids with a molecular mass of 125 kDa. The PLC activity of PLC(eta)2 was more sensitive to calcium concentration than the PLC activity of the PLCdelta-type enzyme, which is thought to be the most calcium-sensitive PLC. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that PLC(eta)2 was localized predominantly to the plasma membrane at resting state via the pleckstrin homology domain. This observation was supported by Western blot analysis of cytosol and membrane fractions. In addition, expression of PLC(eta)2 was detected after birth and showed a restricted distribution in the brain; it was particularly abundant in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and olfactory bulb. The pattern was similar to that of the neuronal marker microtubule-associated protein 2 by Western blot. Furthermore, in situ hybridization showed positive signals for PLC(eta)2 in pyramidal cells of the hippocampus. Finally, we found that PLC(eta)2 was expressed abundantly in neuron-containing primary culture but not in astrocyte-enriched culture. These results indicate that PLC(eta)2 is a neuron-specific isozyme that may be important for the formation and/or maintenance of the neuronal network in the postnatal brain.

Role of phospholipase C-zeta domains in Ca2+-dependent phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate hydrolysis and cytoplasmic Ca2+ oscillations

The sperm-specific phospholipase C-zeta (PLCzeta) elicits fertilization-like Ca2+ oscillations and activation of embryo development when microinjected into mammalian eggs (Saunders, C. M., Larman, M. G., Parrington, J., Cox, L. J., Royse, J., Blayney, L. M., Swann, K., and Lai, F. A. (2002) Development (Camb.) 129, 3533-3544; Cox, L. J., Larman, M. G., Saunders, C. M., Hashimoto, K., Swann, K., and Lai, F. A. (2002) Reproduction 124, 611-623). PLCzeta may represent the physiological stimulus for egg activation and development at mammalian fertilization. PLCzeta is the smallest known mammalian PLC isozyme, comprising two EF hand domains, a C2 domain, and the catalytic X and Y core domains. To gain insight into PLCzeta structure-function, we assessed the ability of PLCzeta and a series of domain-deletion constructs to cause phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate hydrolysis in vitro and also to generate cytoplasmic Ca2+ changes in intact mouse eggs. PLCzeta and the closely related PLCdelta1 had similar K(m) values for phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, but PLCzeta was around 100 times more sensitive to Ca2+ than was PLCdelta1. Notably, specific phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate hydrolysis activity was retained in PLCzeta constructs that had either EF hand domains or the C2 domain removed, or both. In contrast, Ca2+ sensitivity was greatly reduced when either one, or both, of the EF hand domains were absent, and the Hill coefficient was reduced upon deletion of the C2 domain. Microinjection into intact mouse eggs revealed that all domain-deletion constructs were ineffective at initiating Ca2+ oscillations. These data suggest that the exquisite Ca2+-dependent features of PLCzeta regulation are essential for it to generate inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and Ca2+ oscillations in intact mouse eggs.

Regulation of Phospholipase C-δ1 through Direct Interactions with the Small GTPase Ral and Calmodulin

Second messengers generated from membrane lipids play a critical role in signaling and control diverse cellular processes. Despite being one of the most evolutionarily conserved of all the phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) isoforms, a family of enzymes responsible for hydrolysis of the membrane lipid phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate, the mechanism of PLC-delta1 activation is still poorly understood. Here we report a novel regulatory mechanism for PLC-delta1 activation that involves direct interaction of the small GTPase Ral and the universal calcium-signaling molecule calmodulin (CaM) with PLC-delta1. In addition, we have identified a novel IQ type CaM binding motif within the catalytic region of PLC-delta1 that is not found in other PLC isoforms. Binding of CaM at the IQ motif inhibits PLC-delta1 activity, while addition of Ral reverses the inhibition. The overexpression of various Ral mutants in cells potentiates PLC-delta1 activity. Thus, the Ral-CaM complex defines a multifaceted regulatory mechanism for PLC-delta1 activation.

Importance of Platelet Phospholipase Cγ2 Signaling in Arterial Thrombosis as a Function of Lesion Severity

Objective— Platelet activation occurs in response to adhesion receptors for von Willebrand factor (GPIb-V-IX) and collagen (GPVI and α 2 β 1 integrin) acting upstream of phospholipase C (PLC) γ2. However, PLCβ transduces signals from Gαq protein-coupled receptors for soluble agonists (P2y 1 , TxA 2 /TP, and thrombin/PAR). A Gi-dependent pathway amplifies most of these responses.

Methods and Results— To evaluate the role of adhesion receptors signaling in arterial thrombosis, PLCγ2 knockout mice were studied in blood perfusion assays over fibrillar collagen and in a laser-induced mesenteric artery model of thrombosis. In vitro, PLCγ2-deficient platelets formed a single layer incapable of generating a thrombus on collagen, whereas Gαq-deficient platelets formed reduced size aggregates compared with wild-type cells. In the in vivo model, PLCγ2 −/− mice displayed defective thrombus formation in superficial lesions but productive thrombosis after a more severe laser injury. In contrast, resistance to thrombosis was observed in Gαq −/− mice in both levels of injury.

Conclusions— These results demonstrate that signaling through PLCγ2 plays an important role in arterial thrombosis, but that its contribution depends on the severity of the vascular lesion.

The intracellular action of sphingosine 1-phosphate in GPVI-mediated Ca2+ mobilization in platelets

We analyzed the intracellular action of sphingosine 1-phosphate (Sph-1-P), formed from sphingosine (Sph) by sphingosine kinase (SPHK), in platelets. When sphingosine kinase activity was inhibited by N,N-dimethylsphingosine (DMS), Ca2+ mobilization induced by convulxin, an agonist of the collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI), was moderately but specifically abolished; that induced via G protein-coupled receptors was not affected. Under the same conditions, however, tyrosine phosphorylation of Syk and phospholipase Cgamma2, which is essential for the GPVI-mediated signaling, was not inhibited. Sphingosine kinase activity of the platelet membrane fraction increased specifically upon stimulation with convulxin or collagen. Our results suggest that intracellular sphingosine 1-phosphate is related to Ca2+ mobilization in GPVI-mediated signaling pathways.

Expression of phospholipases A2 and C in human corneal epithelial cells

PURPOSE

To achieve a better understanding of the involvement of phospholipases in the inflammation and wound-healing processes in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs), expression of phospholipase A2s (PLA2s) and phospholipase Cs (PLCs) was examined in the human corneal epithelium.

METHODS

Specific primers were designed for RT-PCR amplification of the known secreted (s)PLA2, cytosolic (c)PLA2, and PLC mRNAs. Corresponding PCR products were cloned and the DNA sequenced. Immunofluorescence of flatmounted corneal sections and Western blot analyses were used to detect the PLA2s and PLCs expressed by HCECs.

RESULTS

The mRNAs for the following phospholipases were detected by RT-PCR in the HCECs: sPLA2GIII, -GX, and -GXIIA; cPLA2alpha and -gamma; PLCbeta1, -beta2, -beta3, -beta4, -gamma1, -gamma2, -delta1, -delta3, -delta4, and -epsilon. Immunofluorescence analyses conducted on corneal epithelium cryosections and Western blot on freshly isolated HCECs demonstrated the presence of sPLA2GIII, -GX, and -GXIIA; cPLA2alpha and -gamma; and PLCbeta2, -beta3, -gamma1, -gamma2, and -delta3.

CONCLUSIONS

Many phospholipase isoforms are expressed by HCECs and may play a major role in signal transduction (PLCs) as well as in the release of precursors of potent mediators of inflammation, such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins (PLA2s). Moreover, the sPLA2s expressed by the corneal epithelium could be involved in the normal antibacterial activity in the tears and in wound healing.

Molecular cloning and expression analysis of phospholipase Cδ from mud loach, Misgurnus mizolepis

A gene encoding phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC), designated ML-PLCdelta, was cloned from mud loach (Misgurnus mizolepis) liver. A complete cDNA encoding ML-PLCdelta was isolated by screening the cDNA library of mud loach liver and using the 5'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) method. The full-length ML-PLCdelta gene contains an open reading frame of 2325 base pairs encoding a 774 amino acid protein with a molecular mass of 88,072 Da; this corresponds to the size of the protein expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) using pET28a vector. It contains all of the characteristic domains found in mammalian PLCdelta isozymes (PH domain, EF-hands, X-Y catalytic region, and a C2 domain). A homology search revealed that ML-PLCdelta shares relatively high sequence identity with mammalian PLCdelta1 (51-52%) and catfish PLCdelta (64%). The recombinant ML-PLCdelta protein expressed as a histidine-tagged fusion protein in E. coli was purified to apparent homogeneity by Ni(2+)-NTA affinity chromatography. The recombinant ML-PLCdelta showed a concentration-dependent PLC activity to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bis-phosphate (PIP(2)) and its activity was Ca(2+)-dependent, which was similar to mammalian PLCdelta isozymes.

Identification of Phospholipase C-γ1 as a Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Substrate

The discovery of sequence motifs that mediate protein-protein interactions, coupled with the availability of protein amino acid sequence data, allows for the identification of putative protein binding pairs. The present studies were based on our identification of an amino acid sequence in phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-gamma1 (PLC-gamma1) that fits the consensus sequence for a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) binding site, termed the D-domain. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2), an MAPK, and phospho-ERK2 were bound by an immobilized peptide sequence containing the identified PLC-gamma1 D-domain. Furthermore, a peptide containing the PLC-gamma1 D-domain was able to competitively inhibit the in vitro phosphorylation of recombinant PLC-gamma1 by recombinant phospho-ERK2, whereas a control peptide derived from a distant region of PLC-gamma1 was ineffective. Similarly, the peptide containing the PLC-gamma1 D-domain, but not the control peptide, competitively inhibited the in vitro phosphorylation of Elk-1 and c-Jun catalyzed by recombinant phospho-ERK2 and phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase 3 (phospho-JNK3), another type of MAPK, respectively. Incubation of anti-PLC-gamma1 immunocomplexes isolated from rat brain with recombinant phospho-ERK2 opposed the increase in PLC-gamma1-catalyzed hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-P(2) (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)), which was produced by a tyrosine kinase associated with the immunocomplexes, whereas in vitro phosphorylation of recombinant PLC-gamma1 by recombinant phospho-ERK2 did not alter PLC-gamma1-catalyzed PtdIns(4,5)P(2) hydrolysis. These studies have uncovered a previously unidentified mechanism for the integration of PLC-gamma1- and ERK2-dependent signaling.

Phospholipase C delta-type consists of three isozymes: bovine PLCdelta2 is a homologue of human/mouse PLCdelta4

To date, 12 phospholipase C (PLC) isozymes have been identified in mammals, and they are divided into five classes, beta-, gamma-, delta-, epsilon-, and zeta-type. PLCdelta-type is reported to be composed of four isozymes, PLCdelta1-delta4. Here we report that a screening for mouse PLCdelta2 from a BAC library with primers that amplify a specific region of bovine PLCdelta2 resulted in isolation of one clone containing the mouse PLCdelta4 gene. Furthermore, a database search revealed that there is only one gene corresponding to PLCdelta2 and PLCdelta4 in the mouse and human genomes, indicating that bovine PLCdelta2 is a homologue of human and mouse PLCdelta4. However, PLCdelta2 Western blot analysis with a widely used commercial anti-PLCdelta2 antibody showed an expression pattern distinct from that of PLCdelta4 in wild-type mice. In addition, an 80-kDa band, which was recognized by antibody against PLCdelta2, was smaller than an 85-kDa band detected by anti-PLCdelta4 antibody, and the 80-kDa band was detectable in lysates of brain, testis, and spleen from PLCdelta4-deficient mice. We also found that immunoprecipitates from brain lysates with this PLCdelta2 antibody contained no PLC activity. From these data, we conclude that bovine PLCdelta2 is a homologue of human and mouse PLCdelta4, and that three isozymes (delta1, delta3, and delta4) exist in the PLCdelta family.

Development of a high-throughput assay for two inositol-specific phospholipase Cs using a scintillation proximity format

Inositol-specific PLCs comprise a family of enzymes that utilize phosphoinositide substrates, e.g., PIP(2), to generate intracellular second messengers for the regulation of cellular responses. In the past, monitoring this reaction has been difficult due to the need for radiolabeled substrates, separation of the reaction products by organic-phase extraction, and finally radiometric measurements of the segregated products. In this report, we have studied the enzymatic characteristics of two novel PLCs that were derived from functional genomic analyses using a phospholipid-modified solid scintillating support. This method allows for the hydrophobic capture of the [(3)H]phosphoinositide substrate on a well defined scintillation surface and the homogenous measurement of the enzymatic hydrolysis of the substrate by proximity effects. Our results show that the assay format is robust and well suited for this class of lipid-metabolizing enzymes.

Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens (psychedelics) are psychoactive substances that powerfully alter perception, mood, and a host of cognitive processes. They are considered physiologically safe and do not produce dependence or addiction. Their origin predates written history, and they were employed by early cultures in a variety of sociocultural and ritual contexts. In the 1950s, after the virtually contemporaneous discovery of both serotonin (5-HT) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD-25), early brain research focused intensely on the possibility that LSD or other hallucinogens had a serotonergic basis of action and reinforced the idea that 5-HT was an important neurotransmitter in brain. These ideas were eventually proven, and today it is believed that hallucinogens stimulate 5-HT(2A) receptors, especially those expressed on neocortical pyramidal cells. Activation of 5-HT(2A) receptors also leads to increased cortical glutamate levels presumably by a presynaptic receptor-mediated release from thalamic afferents. These findings have led to comparisons of the effects of classical hallucinogens with certain aspects of acute psychosis and to a focus on thalamocortical interactions as key to understanding both the action of these substances and the neuroanatomical sites involved in altered states of consciousness (ASC). In vivo brain imaging in humans using [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucose has shown that hallucinogens increase prefrontal cortical metabolism, and correlations have been developed between activity in specific brain areas and psychological elements of the ASC produced by hallucinogens. The 5-HT(2A) receptor clearly plays an essential role in cognitive processing, including working memory, and ligands for this receptor may be extremely useful tools for future cognitive neuroscience research. In addition, it appears entirely possible that utility may still emerge for the use of hallucinogens in treating alcoholism, substance abuse, and certain psychiatric disorders.

Phospholipase C delta-4 overexpression upregulates ErbB1/2 expression, Erk signaling pathway, and proliferation in MCF-7 cells

BACKGROUND

The expression of the rodent phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C delta-4 (PLCdelta4) has been found to be elevated upon mitogenic stimulation and expression analysis have linked the upregulation of PLCdelta4 expression with rapid proliferation in certain rat transformed cell lines. The human homologue of PLCdelta4 has not been extensively characterized. Accordingly, we investigate the effects of overexpression of human PLCdelta4 on cell signaling and proliferation in this study.

RESULTS

The cDNA for human PLCdelta4 has been isolated and expressed ectopically in breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Overexpression of PLCdelta4 selectively activates protein kinase C-phi and upregulates the expression of epidermal growth factor receptors EGFR/erbB1 and HER2/erbB2, leading to constitutive activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathway in MCF-7 cells. MCF-7 cells stably expressing PLCdelta4 demonstrates several phenotypes of transformation, such as rapid proliferation in low serum, formation of colonies in soft agar, and capacity to form densely packed spheroids in low-attachment plates. The growth signaling responses induced by PLCdelta4 are not reversible by siRNA.

CONCLUSION

Overexpression or dysregulated expression of PLCdelta4 may initiate oncogenesis in certain tissues through upregulation of ErbB expression and activation of ERK pathway. Since the growth responses induced by PLCdelta4 are not reversible, PLCdelta4 itself is not a suitable drug target, but enzymes in pathways activated by PLCdelta4 are potential therapeutic targets for oncogenic intervention.

Delay fear conditioning modifies phospholipase C-β1a signaling in the hippocampus and frontal cortex

The use of the single-trial fear conditioning paradigm allows for control over the exact moment when an animal is exposed to a learning event, making it possible to study both the initial neurobiological changes that are associated with learning and changes that take place over long periods of time. In the present study, we performed detailed analyses of the alterations in phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-beta1a (PLC-beta1a) levels and enzyme activities in subcellular fractions prepared from the hippocampal formation (HPF) and medial frontal cortex (MFC) 1, 3, 5, 7, 24, and 72 h following single-trial fear conditioning. We observed tissue- and time-dependent changes in both PLC-beta1a enzyme activity and anti-PLC-beta1a immunoreactivity in each subcellular fraction. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that changes in PLC-beta1a catalytic activity and subcellular distribution play important roles in neuronal signaling processes that are required for fear-conditioned learning and memory.

Phosphoinositide Signaling

Lipid signaling by phosphoinositides (PIP(n)s) involves an array of proteins with lipid recognition, kinase, phosphatase, and phospholipase functions. Understanding PIP(n) pathway signaling requires identification and characterization of PIP(n)-interacting proteins. Moreover, spatiotemporal localization and physiological function of PIP(n)-protein complexes must be elucidated in cellular and organismal contexts. For protein discovery to functional elucidation, reporter-linked phosphoinositides or tethered PIP(n)s have been essential. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-K) signaling pathway has recently emerged as an important source of potential "druggable" therapeutic targets in human pathophysiology in both academic and pharmaceutical environments. This review summarizes the chemistry of PIP(n) affinity probes and their use in identifying macromolecular targets. The process of target validation will be described, i.e., the use of tethered PIP(n)s in determining PIP(n) selectivity in vitro and in establishing the function of PIP(n)-protein complexes in living cells.

Two-layer antibody capture of enzymes on the surface of microtiter plates: application to the study of the regulation of phospholipase C-gamma1 catalytic activity

In vitro quantification of the catalytic activity of an enzyme isoform requires the availability of selective agents that allow for either measurements in the presence of the other enzyme isoforms or purification of the isoform and subsequent performance of these measurements on the purified enzyme. Isozyme-specific antibodies are useful tools for these types of analyses. In the present report, we detail a method for the measurement of phospholipase C-gamma1 enzyme activity employing native enzyme that is immobilized on microtiter plates. The method uses biotinylated antiglobulin bound to streptavidin-coated microtiter plates to immobilize antiphospholipase C-gamma1 antibody and subsequently capture phospholipase C-gamma1 from brain tissue lysates. This method avoids biotinylation of the primary (antiphospholipase C-gamma1) antibody, making it less labor intensive than previously described methods for using streptavidin-coated plates; in addition, it is highly reproducible and sensitive and allows for quantification of enzyme activity. We employ the technique to show that one or more tyrosine kinases copurify with rat brain phospholipase C-gamma1. The method is applicable to the study of any enzyme isoform for which antibodies that capture the native form of the enzyme are available and could easily be employed in high-throughput procedures.

Optimizing the interfacial binding and activity of a bacterial phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C

The phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C from Bacillus thuringiensis can be activated by nonsubstrate interfaces such as phosphatidylcholine micelles or bilayers. This activation corresponds with partial insertion into the interface of two tryptophans, Trp-47 in helix B and Trp-242 in a loop, in the rim of the alphabeta-barrel. Both W47A and W242A have much weaker binding to interfaces and considerably lower kinetic interfacial activation. Tryptophan rescue mutagenesis, reinsertion of a tryptophan at a different place in helix B in the W47A mutant or in the loop (residues 232-244) of the W242A mutant, has been used to determine the importance and orientation of a tryptophan in these two structural features. Phosphotransferase and phosphodiesterase assays, and binding to phosphatidylcholine vesicles were used to assess both orientation and position of tryptophans needed for interfacial activity. Of the helix B double mutants, only one mutant, I43W/W47A, has tryptophan in the same orientation as Trp-47. I43W/W47A shows recovery of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PC) activation of d-myo-inositol 1,2-cyclic phosphate hydrolysis. However, the specific activity toward phosphatidylinositol is still lower than wild type enzyme and high activity with phosphatidylinositol solubilized in 30% isopropyl alcohol (a hallmark of the native enzyme) is lost. Reinserting a tryptophan at several positions in the loop composed of residues 232-244 partially recovers PC activation and affinity of the enzyme for lipid interfaces as well as activation by isopropyl alcohol. G238W/W242A shows an enhanced activation and affinity for PC interfaces above that of wild type. These results provide constraints on how this bacterial phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C binds to activating PC interfaces.

Phospholipase A(2) isoforms: a perspective

Several new PLA(2)s have been identified based on their nucleotide gene sequences. They were classified mainly into three groups: cytosolic PLA(2) (cPLA(2)), secretary PLA(2) (sPLA(2)), and intracellular PLA(2) (iPLA(2)). They differ from each other in terms of substrate specificity, Ca(2+) requirement and lipid modification. The questions that still remain to be addressed are the subcellular localization and differential regulation of the isoforms in various cell types and under different physiological conditions. It is required to identify the downstream events that occur upon PLA(2) activation, particularly target protein or metabolic pathway for liberated arachidonic acid or other fatty acids. Understanding the same will greatly help in the development of potent and specific pharmacological modulators that can be used for basic research and clinical applications. The information of the human and other genomes of PLA(2)s, combined with the use of proteomics and genetically manipulated mouse models of different diseases, will illuminate us about the specific and potentially overlapping roles of individual phospholipases as mediators of physiological and pathological processes. Hopefully, such understanding will enable the development of specific agents aimed at decreasing the potential contribution of individual secretary phospholipases to vascular diseases. The signaling cascades involved in the activation of cPLA(2) by mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) is now evident. It has been demonstrated that p44 MAPK phosphorylates cPLA(2) and increases its activity in cells and tissues. The phosphorylation of cPLA(2) at ser505 occurs before the increase in intracellular Ca(2+) that facilitate the binding of the lipid binding domain of cPLA(2) to phospholipids, promoting its translocation to cellular membranes and AA release. Recently, a negative feed back loop for cPLA(2) activation by MAPK has been proposed. If PLA(2) activation in a given model depends on PKC, PKA, cAMP, or MAPK then inhibition of these phosphorylating enzymes may alter activities of PLA(2) isoforms during cellular injury. Understanding the signaling pathways involved in the activation/deactivation of PLA(2) during cellular injury will point to key events that can be used to prevent the cellular injury. Furthermore, to date, there is limited information available regarding the regulation of iPLA(2) or sPLA(2) by these pathways.

A genomewide survey of developmentally relevant genes in Ciona intestinalis. VII. Molecules involved in the regulation of cell polarity and actin dynamics

In the present study, genes involved in the pathways that establish cell polarity and cascades regulating actin dynamics were identified in the completely sequenced genome of Ciona intestinalis, a basal chordate. It was revealed that the Ciona genome contains orthologous genes of each component of aPKC-Par and PCP pathways and WASP/WAVE/SCAR and ADF/cofilin cascades, with less redundancy than the vertebrate genomes, suggesting that the conserved pathways/cascades function in Ciona development. In addition, the present study found that the orthologous proteins of five gene groups (Tc10, WRCH, RhoD, PLC-L, and PSKH) are conserved in humans and Ciona but not in Drosophila melanogaster, suggesting a similarity in the gene composition of Ciona to that of vertebrates. Ciona intestinalis, therefore, may provide refined clues for the study of vertebrate development and evolution.