Parathyroid hormone induces RGS-2 expression by a cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate-mediated pathway in primary neonatal murine osteoblasts

Specific RNA m6A modification sites in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from the jawbone marrow of type 2 diabetes patients with dental implant failure

The failure rate of dental implantation in patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is higher than that in non-diabetic patients. This due, in part, to the impaired function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from the jawbone marrow of T2DM patients (DM-BMSCs), limiting implant osseointegration. RNA N6-methyladenine (m6A) is important for BMSC function and diabetes regulation. However, it remains unclear how to best regulate m6A modifications in DM-BMSCs to enhance function. Based on the “m6A site methylation stoichiometry” of m6A single nucleotide arrays, we identified 834 differential m6A-methylated genes in DM-BMSCs compared with normal-BMSCs (N-BMSCs), including 43 and 790 m6A hypermethylated and hypomethylated genes, respectively, and 1 gene containing hyper- and hypomethylated m6A sites. Differential m6A hypermethylated sites were primarily distributed in the coding sequence, while hypomethylated sites were mainly in the 3′-untranslated region. The largest and smallest proportions of m6A-methylated genes were on chromosome 1 and 21, respectively. MazF-PCR and real-time RT-PCR results for the validation of erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 like 3, activity-dependent neuroprotector homeobox (ADNP), growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), and regulator of G protein signalling 2 agree with m6A single nucleotide array results; ADNP and GDF11 mRNA expression decreased in DM-BMSCs. Furthermore, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses suggested that most of these genes were enriched in metabolic processes. This study reveals the differential m6A sites of DM-BMSCs compared with N-BMSCs and identifies candidate target genes to enhance BMSC function and improve implantation success in T2DM patients.

Specific RNA m6A modification sites in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from the jawbone marrow of type 2 diabetes patients with dental implant failure

The failure rate of dental implantation in patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is higher than that in non-diabetic patients. This due, in part, to the impaired function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from the jawbone marrow of T2DM patients (DM-BMSCs), limiting implant osseointegration. RNA N6-methyladenine (m6A) is important for BMSC function and diabetes regulation. However, it remains unclear how to best regulate m6A modifications in DM-BMSCs to enhance function. Based on the "m6A site methylation stoichiometry" of m6A single nucleotide arrays, we identified 834 differential m6A-methylated genes in DM-BMSCs compared with normal-BMSCs (N-BMSCs), including 43 and 790 m6A hypermethylated and hypomethylated genes, respectively, and 1 gene containing hyper- and hypomethylated m6A sites. Differential m6A hypermethylated sites were primarily distributed in the coding sequence, while hypomethylated sites were mainly in the 3'-untranslated region. The largest and smallest proportions of m6A-methylated genes were on chromosome 1 and 21, respectively. MazF-PCR and real-time RT-PCR results for the validation of erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 like 3, activity-dependent neuroprotector homeobox (ADNP), growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), and regulator of G protein signalling 2 agree with m6A single nucleotide array results; ADNP and GDF11 mRNA expression decreased in DM-BMSCs. Furthermore, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses suggested that most of these genes were enriched in metabolic processes. This study reveals the differential m6A sites of DM-BMSCs compared with N-BMSCs and identifies candidate target genes to enhance BMSC function and improve implantation success in T2DM patients.

Understanding how long-acting β2 -adrenoceptor agonists enhance the clinical efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma - an update

In moderate-to-severe asthma, adding an inhaled long-acting β₂ -adenoceptor agonist (LABA) to an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) provides better disease control than simply increasing the dose of ICS. Acting on the glucocorticoid receptor (GR, gene NR3C1), ICSs promote anti-inflammatory/anti-asthma gene expression. In vitro, LABAs synergistically enhance the maximal expression of many glucocorticoid-induced genes. Other genes, including dual-specificity phosphatase 1(DUSP1) in human airways smooth muscle (ASM) and epithelial cells, are up-regulated additively by both drug classes. Synergy may also occur for LABA-induced genes, as illustrated by the bronchoprotective gene, regulator of G-protein signalling 2 (RGS2) in ASM. Such effects cannot be produced by either drug alone and may explain the therapeutic efficacy of ICS/LABA combination therapies. While the molecular basis of synergy remains unclear, mechanistic interpretations must accommodate gene-specific regulation. We explore the concept that each glucocorticoid-induced gene is an independent signal transducer optimally activated by a specific, ligand-directed, GR conformation. In addition to explaining partial agonism, this realization provides opportunities to identify novel GR ligands that exhibit gene expression bias. Translating this into improved therapeutic ratios requires consideration of GR density in target tissues and further understanding of gene function. Similarly, the ability of a LABA to interact with a glucocorticoid may be suboptimal due to low β₂ -adrenoceptor density or biased β₂ -adrenoceptor signalling. Strategies to overcome these limitations include adding-on a phosphodiesterase inhibitor and using agonists of other Gs-coupled receptors. In all cases, the rational design of ICS/LABA, and derivative, combination therapies requires functional knowledge of induced (and repressed) genes for therapeutic benefit to be maximized.

Markers of bone turnover in patients with epilepsy and their relationship to management of bone diseases induced by antiepileptic drugs

Data from cross-sectional and prospective studies revealed that patients with epilepsy and on long-term treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are at increased risk for metabolic bone diseases. Bone diseases were reported in about 50% of patients on AEDs. Low bone mineral density, osteopenia/osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, altered concentration of bone turnover markers and fractures were reported with phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproate, oxcarbazepine and lamotrigine. The mechanisms for AEDs-induced bone diseases are heterogeneous and include hypovitaminosis D, hypocalcemia and direct acceleration of bone loss and/or reduction of bone formation. This article reviews the evidence, predictors and mechanisms of AEDs-induced bone abnormalities and its clinical implications. For patients on AEDs, regular monitoring of bone health is recommended. Prophylactic administration of calcium and vitamin D is recommended for all patients. Treatment doses of calcium and vitamin D and even anti-resorptive drug therapy are reserved for patients at high risk of pathological fracture.

Markers of bone turnover in patients with epilepsy and their relationship to management of bone diseases induced by antiepileptic drugs

Data from cross-sectional and prospective studies revealed that patients with epilepsy and on long-term treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are at increased risk for metabolic bone diseases. Bone diseases were reported in about 50% of patients on AEDs. Low bone mineral density, osteopenia/osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, altered concentration of bone turnover markers and fractures were reported with phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproate, oxcarbazepine and lamotrigine. The mechanisms for AEDs-induced bone diseases are heterogeneous and include hypovitaminosis D, hypocalcemia and direct acceleration of bone loss and/or reduction of bone formation. This article reviews the evidence, predictors and mechanisms of AEDs-induced bone abnormalities and its clinical implications. For patients on AEDs, regular monitoring of bone health is recommended. Prophylactic administration of calcium and vitamin D is recommended for all patients. Treatment doses of calcium and vitamin D and even anti-resorptive drug therapy are reserved for patients at high risk of pathological fracture.

Induction of regulator of G-protein signaling 2 expression by long-acting β2-adrenoceptor agonists and glucocorticoids in human airway epithelial cells

In asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) multiple mediators act on Gαq-linked G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to cause bronchoconstriction. However, acting on the airway epithelium, such mediators may also elicit inflammatory responses. In human bronchial epithelial BEAS-2B cells (bronchial epithelium + adenovirus 12-SV40 hybrid), regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) 2 mRNA and protein were synergistically induced in response to combinations of long-acting β2-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) (salmeterol, formoterol) plus glucocorticoid (dexamethasone, fluticasone propionate, budesonide). Equivalent responses occurred in primary human bronchial epithelial cells. Concentrations of glucocorticoid plus LABA required to induce RGS2 expression in BEAS-2B cells were consistent with the levels achieved therapeutically in the lungs. As RGS2 is a GTPase-activating protein that switches off Gαq, intracellular free calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) flux was used as a surrogate of responses induced by histamine, methacholine, and the thromboxane receptor agonist U46619 [(Z)-7-[(1S,4R,5R,6S)-5-[(E,3S)-3-hydroxyoct-1-enyl]-3-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-6-yl]hept-5-enoic acid]. This was significantly attenuated by salmeterol plus dexamethasone pretreatment, or RGS2 overexpression, and the protective effect of salmeterol plus dexamethasone was abolished by RGS2 RNA silencing. Although methacholine and U46619 induced interleukin-8 (IL-8) release and this was inhibited by RGS2 overexpression, the repression of U46619-induced IL-8 release by salmeterol plus dexamethasone was unaffected by RGS2 knockdown. Given a role for Gαq-mediated pathways in inducing IL-8 release, we propose that RGS2 acts redundantly with other effector processes to repress IL-8 expression. Thus, RGS2 expression is a novel effector mechanism in the airway epithelium that is induced by glucocorticoid/LABA combinations. This could contribute to the efficacy of glucocorticoid/LABA combinations in asthma and COPD.

Role of regulator of G protein signaling proteins in bone

Regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins are a family with more than 30 proteins that all contain an RGS domain. In the past decade, increasing evidence has indicated that RGS proteins play crucial roles in the regulation of G protein coupling receptors (GPCR), G proteins, and calcium signaling during cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation in a variety of tissues. In bone, those proteins modulate bone development and remodeling by influencing various signaling pathways such as GPCR-G protein signaling, Wnt, calcium oscillations and PTH. This review summarizes the recent advances in the understanding of the regulation of RGS gene expression, as well as the functions and mechanisms of RGS proteins, especially in regulating GPCR-G protein signaling, Wnt signaling, calcium oscillations signaling and PTH signaling during bone development and remodeling. This review also highlights the regulation of different RGS proteins in osteoblasts, chondrocytes and osteoclasts. The knowledge from the recent advances of RGS study summarized in the review would provide the insights into new therapies for bone diseases.

Functional role, mechanisms of regulation, and therapeutic potential of regulator of G protein signaling 2 in the heart

G protein-mediated signal transduction is essential for the regulation of cardiovascular function, including heart rate, growth, contraction, and vascular tone. Regulators of G protein Signaling (RGS proteins) fine-tune G protein-coupled receptor-induced signaling by regulating its magnitude and duration through direct interaction with the α subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins. Changes in the RGS protein expression and/or function in the heart often lead to pathophysiological changes and are associated with cardiac disease in animals and humans, including hypertrophy, fibrosis development, heart failure, and arrhythmias. This article focuses on Regulator of G protein Signaling 2 (RGS2), which is widely expressed in many tissues and is highly regulated in its expression and function. Most information to date has been obtained in biochemical, cellular, and animal studies, but data from humans is emerging. We review recent advances on the functional role of cardiovascular RGS2 and the mechanisms that determine its signaling selectivity, expression, and functionality. We highlight key unanswered questions and discuss the potential of RGS2 as a therapeutic target.

Molecular mechanisms of biomaterial-driven osteogenic differentiation in human mesenchymal stromal cells

Calcium phosphate (CaP) based ceramics are used as bone graft substitutes in the treatment of bone defects. The physico-chemical properties of these materials determine their bioactivity, meaning that molecular and cellular responses in the body will be tuned accordingly. In a previous study, we compared two porous CaP ceramics, hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP), which, among other properties, differ in their degradation behaviour in vitro and in vivo, and we demonstrated that the more degradable β-TCP induced more bone formation in a heterotopic model in sheep. This is correlated to in vitro data, where human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) exhibited higher expression of osteogenic differentiation markers, such as osteopontin, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein, when cultured in β-TCP than in HA. More recently, we also showed that this effect could be mimicked in vitro by exposure of MSC to high concentrations of calcium ions (Ca(2+)). To further correlate surface physico-chemical dynamics of HA and β-TCP ceramics with the molecular response of MSC, we followed Ca(2+) release and surface changes in time as well as cell attachment and osteogenic differentiation of MSC on these ceramics. Within 24 hours, we observed differences in cell morphology, with MSC cultured in β-TCP displaying more pronounced attachment and spreading than cells cultured in HA. In the same time frame, β-TCP induced expression of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) 5A and regulator of G-protein signaling 2, revealed by DNA microarray analysis. These genes, associated with the protein kinase A and GPCR signaling pathways, may herald the earliest response of MSC to bone-inducing ceramics.

SIRT1, heme oxygenase-1 and NO-mediated vasodilation in a human model of endogenous angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonism: implications for hypertension

Reduced NO availability is associated with endothelial dysfunction, hypertension, insulin resistance and cardiovascular remodeling. SIRT1 upregulates eNOS activity and inhibits endothelial cell senescence, and reduced SIRT1 is related to oxidative stress and reduced NO-dependent dilation. Bartter's/Gitelman's syndromes (BS/GS) are rare diseases that feature a picture opposite to that of hypertension in that they present with normo/hypotension, reduced oxidative stress and a lack of cardiovascular remodeling, notwithstanding high levels of angiotensin II and other vasopressors, upregulation of NO system, and increased NO-dependent vasodilation (FMD), as well as increase in both endothelial progenitor cells and insulin sensitivity. To our knowledge, in BS/GS patients SIRT1 has never been evaluated. BS/GS patients' mononuclear cell SIRT1 (western blot), FMD (B-mode scan of the right brachial artery) and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 (sandwich immunoassay), a potent antioxidant protein, were compared with the levels in untreated stage 1 essential hypertensive patients (HPs) and in healthy subjects (C). SIRT1 (1.86 ± 0.29 vs. 1.18 ± 0.18 (HP) vs. 1.45 ± 0.18 (C) densitometric units, P<0.0001) and HO-1 protein (9.44 ± 3.09 vs. 3.70 ± 1.19 (HP) vs. 5.49 ± 1.04 (C) ng ml⁻¹, P<0.0001) levels were higher in BS/GS patients than in the other groups. FMD was also higher in BS/GS patients: 10.52 ± 2.22% vs. 5.99 ± 1 .68% (HP) vs. 7.99 ± 1.13% (C) (ANOVA: P<0.0001). A strong and significant correlation between SIRT1 and FMD was found only in BS/GS patients (r(2)=0.63, P=0.0026). Increased SIRT1 and its direct relationship with increased FMD in BS/GS patients, while strengthening the relationship among SIRT1, NO and vascular function in humans, point toward a role for reduced SIRT1 in the endothelial dysfunction of hypertension.

A finer tuning of G-protein signaling through regulated control of RGS proteins

Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins are GTPase-activating proteins (GAP) for various Gα subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins. Through this mechanism, RGS proteins regulate the magnitude and duration of G-protein-coupled receptor signaling and are often referred to as fine tuners of G-protein signaling. Increasing evidence suggests that RGS proteins themselves are regulated through multiple mechanisms, which may provide an even finer tuning of G-protein signaling and crosstalk between G-protein-coupled receptors and other signaling pathways. This review summarizes the current data on the control of RGS function through regulated expression, intracellular localization, and covalent modification of RGS proteins, as related to cell function and the pathogenesis of diseases.

β2-Adrenoceptor agonist-induced RGS2 expression is a genomic mechanism of bronchoprotection that is enhanced by glucocorticoids

In asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, activation of G(q)-protein-coupled receptors causes bronchoconstriction. In each case, the management of moderate-to-severe disease uses inhaled corticosteroid (glucocorticoid)/long-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) combination therapies, which are more efficacious than either monotherapy alone. In primary human airway smooth muscle cells, glucocorticoid/LABA combinations synergistically induce the expression of regulator of G-protein signaling 2 (RGS2), a GTPase-activating protein that attenuates G(q) signaling. Functionally, RGS2 reduced intracellular free calcium flux elicited by histamine, methacholine, leukotrienes, and other spasmogens. Furthermore, protection against spasmogen-increased intracellular free calcium, following treatment for 6 h with LABA plus corticosteroid, was dependent on RGS2. Finally, Rgs2-deficient mice revealed enhanced bronchoconstriction to spasmogens and an absence of LABA-induced bronchoprotection. These data identify RGS2 gene expression as a genomic mechanism of bronchoprotection that is induced by glucocorticoids plus LABAs in human airway smooth muscle and provide a rational explanation for the clinical efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid (glucocorticoid)/LABA combinations in obstructive airways diseases.

RGS2 is a primary terminator of β₂-adrenergic receptor-mediated G(i) signaling

Two major β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) subtypes, β(1)AR and β(2)AR, are expressed in mammalian heart with β(1)AR coupling to G(s) and β(2)AR dually coupling to G(s) and G(i) proteins. In many types of chronic heart failure, myocardial contractile response to both β(1)AR and β(2)AR stimulation is severely impaired. The dysfunction of βAR signaling in failing hearts is largely attributable to an increase in G(i) signaling, because disruption of the G(i) signaling restores myocardial contractile response to β(1)AR as well as β(2)AR stimulation. However, the mechanism terminating the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling remains elusive, while it has been shown activation of the G(i) signaling is dependent on agonist stimulation and subsequent PKA-mediated phosphorylation of the receptor. Here we demonstrate that regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2) is a primary terminator of the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling. Specifically, prolonged absence of agonist stimulation for 24h impairs the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling, resulting in enhanced β(2)AR- but not β(1)AR-mediated contractile response in cultured adult mouse cardiomyocytes. Increased β(2)AR contractile response is accompanied by a selective upregulation of RGS2 in the absence of alterations in other major cardiac RGS proteins (RGS3-5) or G(s), G(i) or βAR subtypes. Administration of a βAR agonist, isoproterenol (ISO, 1.0 nM), prevents RGS2 upregulation and restores the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling in cultured cells. Furthermore, RGS2 ablation, similar to βAR agonist stimulation, sustains the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling in cultured cells, whereas adenoviral overexpression of RGS2 suppresses agonist-activated β(2)AR-G(i) signaling in cardiomyocytes and HEK293 cells. These findings not only define RGS2 as a novel negative regulator of the β(2)AR-G(i) signaling but also provide a potential novel target for the treatment of chronic heart failure.

The chemokine Cxcl1 is a novel target gene of parathyroid hormone (PTH)/PTH-related protein in committed osteoblasts

The PTH receptor (PTHR1) is expressed on osteoblasts and responds to PTH or PTHrP in an endocrine or autocrine/paracrine manner, respectively. A microarray study carried out on PTHR1-positive osteoblasts (Kusa 4b10 cells) identified the cysteine-X-cysteine (CXC) family chemokine ligand 1 (Cxcl1) as a novel immediate PTH/PTHrP-responsive gene. Cxcl1 is a potent neutrophil chemoattractant with recognized roles in angiogenesis and inflammation, but a role in bone biology has not been described. Cxcl1 mRNA levels were up-regulated 1 h after either PTH or PTHrP treatment of differentiated Kusa 4b10 osteoblasts (15-fold) and mouse calvarial osteoblasts (160-fold) and in rat metaphyseal bone (5-fold) 1 h after a single sc injection of PTH. Furthermore, PTH treatment stimulated a 10-fold increase in secreted Cxcl1 protein by both Kusa 4b10 cells and calvarial osteoblasts. Immunohistochemistry and PCR demonstrated that CXCR2, the receptor for Cxcl1, is highly expressed in osteoclast precursors (hemopoietic cells) but is predominantly undetectable in the osteoblast lineage, suggesting that osteoblast-derived Cxcl1 may act as a chemoattractant for osteoclast precursors. Confirming this hypothesis, recombinant Cxcl1 dose-dependently stimulated migration of osteoclast precursors in cell culture studies, as did conditioned media from Kusa 4b10 cells treated with PTH. These data indicate that local action through the PTHR1 could stimulate cells of the osteoblast lineage to release a chemokine capable of attracting osteoclast precursors to the bone environment.

Characterization of the transcriptional regulation of the regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2) gene during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation

Adipocyte differentiation is a complex process involving several signaling pathways. Molecular mechanisms regulating the very early stage of adipocyte differentiation is not fully appreciated yet. Several inducible genes at the early stage of preadipocyte differentiation have been identified, including the regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2), a member of the RGS protein superfamily. This study aimed to clarify the precise induction profile of RGS2 and to determine the essential transcription element(s) regulating RGS2 expression in differentiating 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. RGS2 mRNA expression was elevated immediately at 1 h after differentiation initiation and it remained high until the late stage of differentiation. The putative promoter sequence (approximately 3,000 bp) of the mouse RGS2 gene was isolated and the RGS2 promoter activity was significantly upregulated 3 h after inducing differentiation. The primary signaling pathway leading to RGS2 transcriptional activation appeared to be cAMP-dependent. Sequential deletion and site-directed mutagenesis strategies demonstrate that the RGS2 promoter sequence truncated down to 78 bp in size retained full inducibility by the differentiation stimuli. Mutation of a Sp1 site within the 78 bp region significantly blocked promoter activity. In addition, high expression of Sp1 transcription factor was noted prior to and paralleling the differentiation process. Taken together, our data suggest that RGS2 transcription is immediately induced via a cAMP-dependent pathway after initiation of 3T3-L1 differentiation and the RGS2 mRNA level remains consistently high throughout the differentiation progression. A Sp1 site within RGS2 promoter appeared to be a crucial response element to regulate RGS2 transcription.

Regulation of heterotrimeric G protein signaling in airway smooth muscle

Heterotrimeric G proteins transduce signals from G protein-coupled receptors to regulate numerous signaling events and functions in airway smooth muscle (ASM). In this article, we detail the function and regulation of heterotrimeric G protein signaling in ASM. We further discuss recent advances in the development of experimental tools in the study of G protein signaling, and speculate how these tools might be used in therapeutic strategies that seek to mitigate bronchospasm and airway remodeling that occur in obstructive airway disease.

Quantitative trait loci that determine mouse tibial nanoindentation properties in an F2 population derived from C57BL/6J x C3H/HeJ

Use of nanoindentation technology to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) that regulate bone properties represents a novel approach to improving our understanding of molecular mechanisms that control bone matrix properties. Tibiae for QTL mapping were from an F2 population derived from C57BL/6J and C3H/HeJ. A nanoindenter (Triboindenter; Hysitron, Minneapolis, MN) was used to conduct indentation tests on transverse sections. Genotyping was performed in The Jackson Laboratory. QTL mapping was conducted using software. We found that (1) tibiae from mice at 16 weeks of age were mature and suitable for measurement by a nanoindentor; (2) both stiffness modulus and hardness modulus in the F2 population appeared to have normal distributions, which suggested that multiple genetic factors control the bone properties; and (3) QTL for hardness were identified from five chromosomes (Chr 8, 12, 13, 17, and 19) and for stiffness, from four chromosomes (Chr 3, 8, 12, and 13). Among all detected QTL, one at the same location on Chr 12 was detected for both hardness and stiffness data. It explained the highest percentage of phenotypic variation in bone properties. Using nanoindentation technology to identify QTL that regulate bone properties yielded as many as six different chromosomal regions. Although the actual genes remain to be identified, nanoindentation will contribute to our understanding of molecular mechanisms and normal development processes that control the matrix properties of bone.

Guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP)/cGMP-dependent protein kinase induce interleukin-6 transcription in osteoblasts

Natriuretic peptides and nitric oxide (NO) activate the cGMP/cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) signaling pathway and play an important role in bone development and adult bone homeostasis. The cytokine IL-6 regulates bone turnover and osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation. We found that C-type natriuretic peptide and the NO donor Deta-NONOate induced IL-6 mRNA expression in primary human osteoblasts, an effect mimicked by the membrane-permeable cGMP analog 8-chlorophenylthio-cGMP (8-CPT-cGMP). Similar results were obtained in rat UMR106 osteosarcoma cells, where C-type natriuretic peptide and 8-CPT-cGMP stimulated transcription of the human IL-6 promoter and increased IL-6 secretion into the medium. Cotransfection of type I PKG enhanced the cGMP effect on the IL-6 promoter, whereas small interfering RNA-mediated silencing of PKG I expression prevented the cGMP effect on IL-6 mRNA expression. Step-wise deletion of the IL-6 promoter demonstrated a cAMP response element to be critical for transcriptional effects of cGMP, and experiments with dominant interfering proteins showed that cGMP activation of the promoter required cAMP response element binding-related proteins, and, to a lesser extent, proteins of the CAAT enhancer-binding protein and activator protein-1 (Fos/Jun) families. 8-CPT-cGMP induced nuclear translocation of type I PKG and increased cAMP response element binding-related protein phosphorylation on Ser(133). PKG regulation of the IL-6 promoter appeared to be of physiological significance, because inhibitors of the NO/cGMP/PKG signaling pathway largely prevented fluid shear stress-induced increases of IL-6 mRNA in UMR106 cells.

RGS proteins: Swiss army knives in seven-transmembrane domain receptor signaling networks

Coordinated regulation of heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein) activity is critical for the integration of information from multiple intracellular signaling networks. The human regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) protein family contains more than 35 members that are well suited for this purpose. Although all RGS proteins contain a core ~120-amino acid Galpha-interacting domain (called the RGS domain), they differ widely in size and organization of other functional domains. Architecturally complex RGS proteins contain multiple modular protein-protein interaction domains that mediate their interaction with diverse signaling effectors. Architecturally simple RGS proteins contain small amino-terminal domains; however, they show surprising versatility in the number of intracellular partners with which they interact. This Perspective focuses on RGS2, a simple RGS protein with the potential to integrate multiple signaling networks. In three recent studies, the amino-terminal domain of RGS2 was shown to interact with and regulate three different effector proteins: adenylyl cyclase, tubulin, and the cation channel TRPV6. To explain this growing list of RGS2-interacting partners, we propose two models: (i) The amino-terminal domain of RGS2 comprises several short effector protein interaction motifs; (ii) the amino-terminal domain of RGS2 adopts distinct structures to bind various targets. Whatever the precise mechanism controlling its target interactions, these studies suggest that RGS2 is a key point of integration for multiple intracellular signaling pathways, and they highlight the role of RGS proteins as dynamic, multifunctional signaling centers that coordinate a diverse range of cellular functions.

PGC-1alpha is induced by parathyroid hormone and coactivates Nurr1-mediated promoter activity in osteoblasts

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) potently activates cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA)-driven molecular cascades in osteoblasts. The NR4A/NGFI-B orphan nuclear receptor (NR) Nurr1 is a PTH-induced, cAMP-responsive primary response gene (PRG) that transactivates osteocalcin (Ocn) expression through a putative NGFI-B response element (NBRE) in the proximal promoter. As a true orphan NR, Nurr1's expression level and coactivator recruitment regulate its transactivation capacity. We postulated that Nurr1's induction through cAMP-PKA signaling might favor a coactivator that is likewise cAMP-dependent. A possible candidate is the cAMP-inducible coactivator PPARgamma coactivator-1alpha (PGC-1alpha). We hypothesize that PGC-1alpha is a PTH-induced PRG that synergizes with Nurr1 to induce target gene transcription in osteoblasts. We show that 10 nM PTH for 2 h maximally induced PGC-1alpha mRNA in primary mouse osteoblasts (MOBs) and calvariae. Selective signaling agonists and antagonists demonstrated that PTH induced PGC-1alpha mRNA primarily through the cAMP-PKA pathway. Protein synthesis inhibition sustained PTH-induced PGC-1alpha expression. PGC-1alpha enhanced Nurr1-induced transactivation of a consensus 3xNBRE-luciferase construct and the rat (-1050)Ocn promoter-luciferase construct from 3.7- to 9.6- and 10.1-fold, respectively. This synergy required Nurr1-DNA binding, since a mutation of the Ocn promoter NBRE abolished both Nurr1- and Nurr1-PGC-1alpha-induced transactivation. Using GST pull-down assays, PGC-1alpha directly interacted with in vitro-generated and nuclear Nurr1. We conclude that PGC-1alpha is a PTH-induced, cAMP-dependent PRG that directly synergizes with Nurr1 to transactivate target genes in osteoblasts. Taken together with published data, our findings suggest that Nurr1 and PGC-1alpha may be pivotal mediators of cAMP-induced osteoblast gene expression and osteoblast function.

Up-regulation of endogenous RGS2 mediates cross-desensitization between Gs and Gq signaling in osteoblasts

Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins limit G protein signals. In this study, we investigated the role of RGS2 in the control of G protein signaling cascades in osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. Expression of RGS2 was up-regulated in primary cultures of mouse calvarial osteoblasts by parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP)-(1-34), which stimulates G(s) signaling. RGS2 was also up-regulated by extracellular ATP, which selectively activates G(q), as well as by forskolin and phorbol myristate acetate, which activate targets downstream of G(s) and G(q), respectively. To assess the role of endogenous RGS2, we characterized G(s) and G(q) signaling in osteoblasts derived from wild type and rgs2(-/-) mice. Under control conditions, nucleotide-stimulated calcium release, endothelin-stimulated accumulation of inositol phosphates, and PTHrP-stimulated cAMP accumulation were equivalent in osteoblasts isolated from wild type and rgs2(-/-) mice. Thus, basal levels of endogenous RGS2 do not appear to regulate G(s) or G(q) signaling in osteoblasts. Interestingly, forskolin treatment of wild type but not rgs2(-/-) osteoblasts suppressed both endothelin-stimulated accumulation of inositol phosphates and nucleotide-stimulated calcium release, indicating that up-regulation of RGS2 by G(s) signaling desensitizes G(q) signals. Furthermore, pretreatment with ATP suppressed PTHrP-dependent cAMP accumulation in wild type but not rgs2(-/-) osteoblasts, implying that up-regulation of RGS2 by G(q) signaling desensitizes G(s) signals. Our findings demonstrate that endogenously expressed RGS2 can limit G(s) signaling. Moreover, up-regulation of RGS2 contributes to cross-desensitization of G(s)- and G(q)-coupled signals.

Mechanism of isoproterenol-induced RGS2 up-regulation in astrocytes

Regulators of G protein signaling (RGSs) are inducibly expressed in response to various stimuli and the up-regulation of RGSs leads to significant decreases in GPCR responsiveness. Isoproterenol, an adrenergic receptor agonist, stimulated RGS2 mRNA in C6 rat astrocytoma cells. The up-regulation of RGS2 mRNA was abrogated by genistein, a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor (PTK), and by broad-spectrum protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors (staurosporine and GF109203X). alpha-Adrenergic antagonist (prazocin), beta-adrenergic antagonist (prazocin), and pertussis toxin only partially blocked the RGS2 up-regulation, suggesting that the RGS2 up-regulation is concomitantly mediated by Galphai, Galphas, and Galphaq. It is interesting to note that SB203580, a potent p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, completely inhibited the isoproterenol-mediated RGS2 expression. In addition, isoproterenol also markedly stimulated RGS2 mRNA in rat primary astrocytes, which were sensitive to SB203580 and staurosporine. Therefore, our data suggest that adrenergic receptor-mediated signaling (induced by isoproterenol) may be involved in the regulation of RGS2 expression in astrocytes via activating PTK, PKC, and p38 MAPK.

Mammalian RGS proteins: Multifunctional regulators of cellular signalling

Regulators of G-protein signalling (RGS) proteins are a large and diverse family initially identified as GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) of heterotrimeric G-protein Galpha-subunits. At least some can also influence Galpha activity through either effector antagonism or by acting as guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors (GDIs). As our understanding of RGS protein structure and function has developed, so has the realisation that they play roles beyond G-protein regulation. Such diversity of function is enabled by the variety of RGS protein structure and their ability to interact with other cellular molecules including phospholipids, receptors, effectors and scaffolds. The activity, sub-cellular distribution and expression levels of RGS proteins are dynamically regulated, providing a layer of complexity that has yet to be fully elucidated.

Parathyroid hormone regulates osterix and Runx2 mRNA expression predominantly through protein kinase A signaling in osteoblast-like cells

Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osterix are osteoblast-specific transcription factors essential for the development of osteoblastic cells and bone formation. PTH given intermittently has anabolic effects on bone; however, the exact role remains to be understood completely. The purpose of this study was both to investigate whether PTH regulates Runx2 as well as osterix expression and to identify the signaling used. Using RT-PCR, we confirmed that PTH (1-34) regulated Runx2 and osterix mRNA expression, in rat osteoblast-like cell line UMR 106, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. PTH in low concentrations stimulated both Runx2 and osterix mRNA expression while that in high concentrations did not. Forskolin, an adenylate cyclase activator, also enhanced Runx2 and osterix transcription, and the stimulatory effects of PTH and forskolin were blocked by the pre-treatment of the cells with H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. In contrast, the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) had no effect on Runx2 transcription, but induced an increase in osterix mRNA level at the concentration of 500 nM at 12 h after treatment. Moreover, pre-treatment of the cells with calphostin C, a PKC-specific inhibitor, reduced the increase in osterix transcripts enhanced by PTH and PMA 12 h after treatment. However, these inhibitory effects were not sustained for longer terms. These observations demonstrate that PTH stimulates Runx2 and osterix expression in vitro, at least in part, at transcriptional level. Induction of Runx2 mRNA is mediated through the activation of cAMP/PKA signal transduction. In the case of osterix, although the increase in mRNA level is predominantly mediated via cAMP/PKA signaling, PKC activation might also be involved in this process.

Stimulation of amphiregulin expression in osteoblastic cells by parathyroid hormone requires the protein kinase A and cAMP response element-binding protein signaling pathway

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), an anabolic agent for bone metabolism, has profound effects on gene expression in the osteoblast. Recently, we identified that amphiregulin (AR), an EGF-like ligand, is an immediate early gene for PTH treatment and has an important role in bone metabolism. In the present report, by using different PTH peptide fragments, protein kinase activators, and inhibitors, we have demonstrated that PTH regulates amphiregulin in a cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent manner both in vitro and in vivo. We found that the phosphorylation of cAMP-response element (CRE)-binding protein (CREB) preceded AR transcription after PTH treatment. Moreover, luciferase reporter assays revealed that the binding of phosphorylated CREB to a conserved CRE site in the AR promoter plays an important role in basal, PTH-induced, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-induced AR expression in osteoblastic cells. In summary, our data suggest that PTH-induced AR mRNA expression is mediated primarily through cAMP-PKA-CREB signaling.

Parathyroid hormone induces receptor activity modifying protein-3 (RAMP3) expression primarily via 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling in osteoblasts

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has significant anabolic and catabolic effects on bone. We hypothesize that PTH-induced primary response genes are important determinants of osteoblast function. PTH induces osteoblastic gene expression through PTHR1, a heptahelical receptor that triggers cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC), and calcium signaling. By using representational difference analysis we found that receptor activity modifying protein-3 (RAMP3) is a PTH-induced primary response gene in osteoblastic cells. RAMP3 is a coactivator that directs calcitonin receptor (CTR) and CTR-like receptor (CRLR) glycosylation, trafficking, and ligand-binding specificity. Our purpose was to characterize PTH-induced RAMP3 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels in primary mouse osteoblasts (MOBs) and to determine which signaling pathway mediates this effect. 10 nM PTH maximally induced RAMP3 mRNA levels in MOBs at 4 hours. Protein synthesis inhibition with 3 microg/mL cycloheximide did not affect PTH-induced RAMP3 mRNA levels. Selective activation of cAMP-PKA signaling with, 10 microM forskolin (FSK) and PKC signaling with 1 microM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) significantly increased RAMP3 mRNA levels, whereas 1 microM ionomycin (a calcium ionophore) had no effect. Pretreatment with 30 microM H89, a PKA inhibitor, significantly blocked PTH- and FSK-induced RAMP3 mRNA levels. Pretreatment with 1 microM PMA, which depletes PKC, had no effect on PTH- and FSK-induced RAMP3 mRNA levels but blocked PMA-induced RAMP3 mRNA levels. 100 nM PTH (3-34), which activates PKC and calcium but not PKA, had no effect on RAMP3 mRNA levels. These findings indicate that RAMP3 is a PTH-induced primary response gene in primary MOBs and that PTH regulates RAMP3 gene expression primarily through the cAMP-PKA pathway.

Beta adrenergic receptor-mediated atrial specific up-regulation of RGS5

Previous investigations had suggested that signaling from the overexpressed beta(2) adrenergic in the heart of transgenic TG4 mice was dampened in the atria. Using an RT-PCR based strategy, we have identified Regulator of G-protein Signaling 5 (RGS5) as being up-regulated in the atria of TG4 mice. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that RGS5 levels were 3 fold higher in the atria of TG4 mice. Western blot analysis of a panel of rat tissues demonstrated that basal expression of RGS5 protein was confined to the heart and skeletal muscle. Furthermore, RGS5 protein was detected in skeletal muscle C2C12 and cardiomyocyte HL-1 cultured cell lines. As observed for RGS5 mRNA levels in TG4 mice, RGS5 protein levels were increased in the atria of rats that were administered the beta adrenergic agonist isoproterenol during a 14 day period. Taken together, these results indicate that RGS5 is a housekeeping RGS in the heart and in skeletal muscle while its beta adrenergic-mediated induction in the atrium suggests that it also has a highly specialized function.

Identification of potential modifiers of Runx2/Cbfa1 activity in C2C12 cells in response to bone morphogenetic protein-7

Treatment with BMP-7 causes a shift in the differentiation pathway from myoblastic to osteoblastic in C2C12 mouse myoblast precursor cells in vitro. The underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. BMP-7 at 200 ng/ml completely inhibited myotube formation in C2C12 cells and dramatically induced alkaline phosphatase activity up to 20-fold when compared to untreated cells by day 12 in culture. The level of Runx2/Cbfa1 mRNA, a bone-specific transcription factor, was also stimulated up to 6-fold by BMP-7 with a peak at 24 h. In addition BMP-7 treatment stimulated a 55-fold increase in osteocalcin mRNA as early as 24 h after treatment. A novel finding was that the expression of the chondrocyte markers Sox9 and type II collagen was increased as well. Runx2/Cbfa1 is a molecular switch for osteoblast differentiation. To initiate the study of modulators of Runx2/Cbfa1, such as kinases and cofactors, during osteoblastic differentiation of C2C12 cells treated by BMP-7 in vitro, microarray analyses of gene expressions were performed. Microarray data suggested that a total of 882 transcripts were either up- or downregulated at least 2-fold. Cluster analyses revealed 76 genes (including ESTs) with expression patterns that paralleled Runx2/Cbfa1. Thirteen of these 76 genes were initially selected as potential transcription modulators for further study; including CCAAT/enhancer binding protein delta, distal- less homeobox 1, forkhead box F2, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4, an ortholog of human osteoclast stimulating factor 1 and p300/CBP-associated factor. Some transcription modulators have been associated with osteoblastic differentiation or interacted with Runx2/Cbfa1. Most of them have not been extensively studied in osteoblastic differentiation and in relationship to Runx2/Cbfa1. Thus, these studies identify potential regulators for Runx2/Cbfa1 and osteoblast differentiation. In addition, our data revealed for the first time that BMP-7 not only induced the expression of osteoblastic differentiation markers but also stimulated the expression of chondroblastic markers in C2C12 cells.

Vitamin D and dexamethasone inversely regulate parathyroid hormone-induced regulator of G protein signaling-2 expression in osteoblast-like cells

The PTH/PTHrP receptor stimulates both adenylate cyclase- and phospholipase C-dependent signaling pathways via different G proteins. The biological actions of PTH on bone are modified by steroid hormones. PTH induces expression of regulator of G protein signaling (RGS)-2, a putative preferential inhibitor of G(q)-mediated phospholipase C activation. We investigated whether steroid hormones interfere with PTH signaling by modulating PTH-induced RGS-2 expression in osteoblast-like UMR 106-01 cells. PTH (1-34) rapidly and transiently induced expression of RGS-2 mRNA and protein via the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway within 30 min, with maximal protein abundance after 2 h. PTH-induced RGS-2 preferentially bound to Galpha(q), compared with Galpha(s) protein. 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) pretreatment enhanced PTH-induced RGS-2 mRNA and protein accumulation, whereas dexamethasone preincubation had an attenuating effect. These effects were due to modulation of the RGS-2 gene transcription rate, which increased by 35% with 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) and decreased by 63% with dexamethasone pretreatment. RGS-2 mRNA half-life was not affected by either steroid. The transcriptional effects of dexamethasone and 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) were independent of PTH/PTHrP receptor activation and were not explained by effects on cAMP accumulation, cAMP response element-binding protein expression or phosphorylation, or the abundance of the osteoblast-specific transcription factor core-binding factor alpha (CBFa1/Runx2), a known activator of RGS-2 expression. In conclusion, glucocorticoids and 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) inversely modulate PTH-induced RGS-2 gene transcription. Regulation of RGS-2 may constitute a novel mechanism by which steroids modulate signaling via the PTH/PTHrP receptor and other G protein-coupled receptors in bone.