Studies on bone enzymes. The assay of acid hydrolases and other enzymes in bone tissue

Use of a laboratory exercise on molar absorptivity to help students understand the authority of the primary literature

To promote understanding of the authority of the primary literature in students taking our biochemistry laboratory courses, a biochemistry laboratory exercise on the determination of an acceptable molar absorptivity value of 2-nitrophenol (2-NP) was developed. This made the laboratory course much more relevant by linking to a thematic thread, β-galactosidase, that scaffolds concepts in one exercise with those in later exercises. The substrate for the continuous assay of β-galactosidase is the chromogenic 2-nitrophenyl-β-D-galactopyranoside that produces 2-NP. In an early laboratory exercise, students determine the wavelength of maximum absorption for the protonated and deprotonated form of 2-NP at various pH values and then determine the molar absorptivity of 2-NP. Students were encouraged to discuss apparent discrepancies not only in their own determinations of molar absorptivity values for 2-NP, but also in the published molar absorptivity values for 2-NP (2,150-21,300 M(-1) cm(-1) ) at almost the same pH and at 420 nm. Finally, the students were led to a publication that serves as an authentic source for molar absorptivity of 2-NP.

Studies on bone enzymes. The activation and release of latent acid hydrolases and catalase in bone-tissue homogenates

1. Eight distinct acid-hydrolase activities present in cytoplasmic extracts from bone tissue occur in latent form to the extent of 50-70% of their total activity, depending on the enzyme. 2. This latency can be decreased or suppressed by exposure to Triton X-100 or to media of low osmotic pressure, by treatment in the Waring Blendor, and by freezing and thawing, but not by increasing the substrate concentration in the assay medium up to 10-fold the Michaelis constant of the enzymes. 3. Latency is the property of the particle-bound enzymes, and treatments that suppress latency simultaneously cause solubilization of the enzymes. Most enzymes show an excess of free over soluble activity; the magnitude of this excess seems to depend largely on the nature of the enzyme, and sometimes also on the kind of treatment suffered by the preparations; it is attributed mainly to adsorption artifacts. 4. In preparations subjected to graded activating treatments, seven of the eight acid hydrolases studied are released in closely parallel fashion, suggesting that they are associated with particles possessing similar properties. Acid phenylphosphatase is released less readily than the other enzymes by Triton X-100 and by exposure to media of low osmotic pressure. 5. It is concluded from these and previous published fractionation experiments that, with the possible exception of part of the acid-phenylphosphatase activity, the eight acid hydrolases studied belong to lysosome-like particles. Bone lysosomes exhibit a relatively high degree of biochemical and physical heterogeneity. Their possible functions are discussed. Part of the acid-phenylphosphatase activity could be linked to another group of particles. 6. Catalase is also partly (30%) latent in cytoplasmic extracts of bone. Latent catalase can be released by some of the treatments that suppress the latency of the lysosomal enzymes, but differs from the latter by a greater resistance to Triton X-100, and, especially, by a complete insensitivity to exposure to media of low osmotic pressure. It is concluded from these results that the catalase-containing particles are probably different from lysosomes, as they are in liver. 7. Cytochrome oxidase, which is presumably associated with the mitochondria, and alkaline phenylphosphatase, an enzyme occurring predominantly in the microsomal fraction, exhibited no latency under the conditions of the present experiments.

Studies on bone enzymes. Distribution of acid hydrolases, alkaline phenylphosphatase, cytochrome oxidase and catalase in subcellular fraction of bone tissue homogenates

1. When bone homogenates were fractionated according to the scheme developed for liver by de Duve, Pressman, Gianetto, Wattiaux & Appelmans (1955), all the enzymes assayed except cytochrome oxidase were found to occur partly in soluble and partly in particulate fractions. Among the particle-bound enzymes, the highest specific activity was found in the heavy-mitochondrial fraction for cytochrome oxidase, in the microsomal fraction for alkaline phenylphosphatase and in the light-mitochondrial fraction for eight acid hydrolases and for catalase. 2. Combined heavy-mitochondrial and light-mitochondrial fractions were subfractionated by isopycnic centrifugation in density gradients of sucrose or glycogen. In the various systems tried, cytochrome oxidase showed a relatively narrow distribution range with a sharp peak; the acid hydrolases and catalase showed flat and irregular distribution patterns, differing slightly in shape from one enzyme to the other. However, it was not possible to achieve a marked separation between the various enzymes under study. 3. It is concluded from these results that the acid hydrolases belong to special cytoplasmic particles, probably lysosomes, and that these particles are physically and enzymically heterogeneous. Catalase appears to be non-mitochondrial and could also belong to the lysosomes; but the possibility of an association with another type of particle must be kept in mind in view of what is known of liver catalase. Alkaline phenylphosphatase is largely attached to microsomal elements.

Transforming growth factor-beta stimulates bone resorption in neonatal mouse calvariae by a prostaglandin-unrelated but cell proliferation-dependent pathway

The relationships between bone resorption, prostanoid formation, and cell proliferation in cultured neonatal mouse calvariae stimulated with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) have been examined. Bone resorption was assessed by analyzing the mobilization of minerals (45Ca, Ca2+., Pi) and the release of 3H from bones prelabeled with [3H]proline. Prostanoid formation was determined by analyzing the amounts of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (the stable breakdown product of PGI2) in culture media. Purified porcine TGF-beta 1 and recombinant human TGF-beta 2 stimulated the release of 45Ca and the formation of prostanoids. The effects were time and dose dependent. The concentrations of TGF-beta 1 and TGF-beta 2 causing half maximal stimulation of 45Ca release were 1 and 0.1 ng/ml, respectively. TGF-beta 1 also enhanced the release of 3H from [3H]proline labeled bones and the mobilization of Ca2+ and Pi from unlabeled bones, as well as the release of lysosomal enzymes (beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase). The degree of stimulation of mineral mobilization and matrix degradation was less than that obtained in bones stimulated with parathyroid hormone or 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3). TGF-beta 1-induced stimulation of 45Ca release was inhibited by calcitonin, acetazolamide, and the biphosphonate AHPrBP, three different osteoclast inhibitors. In contrast to the escape from calcitonin-induced inhibition seen in parathyroid hormone (PTH)-stimulated bones, the inhibitory effect of calcitonin in TGF-beta 1-stimulated bones persisted in long-term cultures (144 h). The stimulatory effect of TGF-beta 1 was inhibited by anti-TGF-beta 1 and by gamma-interferon (1000 U/ml). Indomethacin (1 microM), flurbiprofen (1 microM), and meclofenamic acid (1 microM) completely abolished the stimulatory effect of TGF-beta 1 on PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF 1 alpha formation without affecting TGF-beta 1-induced stimulation of 45Ca release. Similarly, the stimulatory effect of TGF-beta 2 on 45Ca release was unaffected by indomethacin. In bones in which prostaglandin formation was abolished by indomethacin, a 45Ca release response to TGF-beta 1 was obtained at 12 h. The mitotic inhibitor hydroxyurea inhibited TGF-beta 1 but not PTH-induced 45Ca release. These data demonstrate that TGF-beta 1 and TGF-beta 2 have the capacity to stimulate bone resorption and prostanoid formation in neonatal mouse calvariae, but that the effect of TGF-beta on bone resorption is unrelated to prostanoid formation. In addition, it is shown that bone resorption stimulated by TGF-beta is dependent on cell replication.

Stimulation of neonatal mouse calvarial bone resorption by the glucocorticoids hydrocortisone and dexamethasone

In vitro stimulation of bone resorption was observed with the glucocorticoids hydrocortisone and dexamethasone. Dosage-dependent release of 45Ca from neonatal mouse calvarial bones was found for both steroids, with half-maximal responses for hydrocortisone and dexamethasone of 0.3 and 0.08 microM, respectively. Significant release of stable calcium (Ca2+), inorganic phosphate (Pi), and the lysosomal enzyme beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase was noted following treatment of mouse calvariae with either 1 microM hydrocortisone or 1 microM dexamethasone. Additionally, both 1 microM hydrocortisone and 1 microM dexamethasone elicited release of 3H from calvarial bones prelabeled with [3H]proline. The stimulation of bone resorption by the glucocorticoids, as assessed by 45Ca release, was sustained over 120 h of culture. Inhibition of 45Ca release from calvariae treated with either 1 microM hydrocortisone or 0.1 microM dexamethasone was observed with 0.01-30 nM salmon calcitonin (sCT), 0.1 mM acetazolamide, and 0.1 mM of the bisphosphonate AHPrBP. Inhibition of glucocorticoid-induced bone resorption by sCT occurred without "escape from calcitonin-induced inhibition." The 45Ca release stimulated by 1 microM hydrocortisone and 0.1 microM dexamethasone was also inhibited by 10 microM progesterone in a competitive manner and by 1 microM of the antiglucocorticoid RU38486, both of which are modulators of glucocorticoid binding. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) formation by 10 nM parathyroid hormone (PTH) in neonatal mouse calvarial bones was inhibited by both 1 microM hydrocortisone and 1 microM dexamethasone, but neither compound altered basal PGE2 formation. Exposure of calvarial bones to the mitotic inhibitors hydroxyurea and mitomycin C inhibited 45Ca release stimulated by 1 microM hydrocortisone and 1 microM dexamethasone. In contrast, addition of 1 ng/ml of recombinant murine granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (rmGM-CSF) had no effect on 45Ca release elicited by the glucocorticoids. These results suggest that hydrocortisone and dexamethasone stimulate osteoclastic resorption in neonatal mouse calvariae by a receptor-mediated mechanism that is dependent on cellular replication.

Effect of clodronate on established collagen-induced arthritis in rats

The collagen-induced arthritis model in rats was used to study the effect of disodium clodronate on inflammation and destruction of tarsal, metatarsal, and interphalangeal bones and joints. Female DA rats were immunized with heterologous type II collagen. Fourteen days after immunization, rats with similar scores were assigned to the different experimental groups. They were treated subcutaneously either with saline (controls) or with clodronate at doses of 12.5 and 25 mg/kg/day five times a week for 2 weeks. Clinical signs of arthritis including the severity of paw swelling were assessed weekly. At the time of killing, histological features of the non-decalcified tarsus with tarsal, tarsometatarsal and interphalangeal joints were assessed for inflammatory soft-tissue, articular, and bone changes. All the arthritic control rats developed severe arthritis as shown by the total histological scores of the hindpaw. The treatment with clodronate (25 mg/kg) decreased clinical signs of arthritis, the activity of the collagen-degrading lysosomal enzyme, beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase, in inflamed hindpaw tissue, serum osteocalcin level and serum cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen level. Histological evaluation indicated moderate arthritis in 29% of the rats and severe arthritis in 71%. The results show that clodronate given therapeutically to arthritic rats, induced with type II collagen, suppresses the intensity of inflammation and bone lesions in the tibiotarsal and tarsometatarsal regions.

The anti-osteoporotic activity of amine-carboxyboranes in rodents

Amine-carboxyboranes have been shown to prevent osteoporosis and loss of bone mass in rodents. In vitro studies using CF1 mouse pup calvaria and rat UMR-106 osteosarcoma cells showed that amine-carboxyborane derivatives reduced significantly the loss of intracellular calcium into the growth medium from 10(-4) to 10(-8) M over 48 hours. Amine-carboxyborane derivatives were more effective than calcitonin or simple boron salts. Calcium incorporation into these cells and proline incorporation into collagen was accelerated in the presence of amine carboxyboranes. The amine-carboxyborane derivatives effectively inhibited lysosomal and proteolytic enzymes as well as activities of serine elastase, prostaglandin cyclooxygenase, and 5'-lipoxygenase in mouse macrophages, human PMNs, leukocytes and Be Sal cells. IC50 values were in the range of 10(-6) M. In lactating ovariectomized female rats after administered amine-carboxyboranes for 14 days at 8 mg/kg/day orally, the femur and humerus showed increased volume, weight, density and ash weight. Serum calcium levels were elevated significantly with minimum reductions on serum inorganic phosphate levels. Femur calcium levels were elevated after treatment with amine-carboxyborane derivatives, but not with etidronate. Humerus total lipids after 14 days were slightly elevated probably due to increased levels of triglycerides and phospholipids.

Effect of clodronate on established adjuvant arthritis

The rat adjuvant arthritis model was used to study the effect of disodium clodronate on inflammation and destruction of tarsal bones and joints. Male Lewis rats were given an intradermal injection of mycobacteria. Fourteen days after immunization, rats with similar scores were assigned to the different experimental groups. They were treated subcutaneously either with saline (controls) or with clodronate at doses of 12.5 and 25 mg/kg/day five times a week for 2 weeks. Clinical signs of arthritis including the severity of paw swelling were assessed weekly. At the time of sacrifice, histological features of the non-decalcified tarsus with ankle, intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints were assessed for inflammatory soft-tissue, articular and bone changes. The total histological score of the hindpaw indicated that 58% of the control rats developed moderate arthritis and 42%, severe arthritis. The treatment with clodronate (25 mg/kg) decreased clinical signs of arthritis and the activity of the collagen-degrading lysosomal enzyme, beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase, in inflamed hindpaw tissue. Histological evaluation indicated moderate arthritis in 83%, but no severe arthritis. The lower dose of clodronate also decreased the severity of the disease; the decrease was, however, statistically insignificant. The results show that clodronate given therapeutically to adjuvant arthritic rats suppresses the intensity of the inflammation and prevents secondary articular and bone lesions in the tibiotarsal region.

Increased activities of cathepsin B and other lysosomal hydrolases in fibroblasts and bone tissue cultured in the presence of cysteine proteinases inhibitors

Leupeptin is an established, reversible inhibitor of cathepsin B, a lysosomal cysteine proteinase. Yet, in rat fibroblasts as well as in foetal mouse calvaria, we observed an increase of the activity of cathepsin B in homogenates of cells and tissue harvested after culture in the presence of leupeptin. This effect was also seen for other lysosomal hydrolases, namely sphingomyelinase, N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, arylsulphatase A and phospholipase A1 in fibroblasts, and beta-glucuronidase in mouse calvaria. In calvaria, antipain, another reversible cysteine proteinase inhibitor, caused a similar effect, whereas E-64, an irreversible inhibitor, was consistently inhibitory of the cathepsin B activity; yet it also caused an increase of beta-glucuronidase activity. The effect of leupeptin in fibroblasts was dose and time-dependent, required the continuous presence of the inhibitor, and was not dependent from protein synthesis. Actually, addition of cycloheximide caused a severe loss of activity of cathepsin B and of sphingomyelinase. In the presence of both cycloheximide and leupeptin, however, these two activities were retained to a value corresponding to that found in excess in cells cultivated with leupeptin alone. The data therefore suggests that leupeptin exerts the effects described in this paper by preventing the degradation of cathepsin B, sphingomyelinase and probably several other lysosomal hydrolases by cysteine proteinases. We therefore propose that cysteine proteinases play a key role in the control of the steady-state levels of these enzymes in normal conditions.

Biochemical and histochemical analysis of the enzyme arylsulfatase in human lesions of endodontic origin

Lesions of endodontic origin are areas of inflammatory response which occur as a result of untreated disease process within the root canal system. Lysosomal hydrolytic arylsulfatase A and B have been identified as major enzymes initiating and propagating bone loss by degrading chondroitin-4-sulfate. The purpose of this investigation was to examine human lesions of endodontic origin for the presence of arylsulfatase A and B. Fifteen periapical lesions were obtained at the time of periapical surgery. The lesions were analyzed for the presence of arylsulfatases using the spectrophotometer by monitoring the liberated 4-nitrocatechol at 515-nm wavelength. The same lesions were examined histochemically using the electron microscope. Five control samples from healthy periodontal ligament were evaluated in a similar manner. The results showed higher levels of arylsulfatase A in lesions than in control tissues, and marked activity of arylsulfatase B in lesions, whereas no activity of this enzyme was detected in the control specimen. Histochemically, all lesions showed positive staining for enzyme activity, whereas the controls were negative. These findings indicate that arylsulfatase A and B play a role in the pathogenesis of human lesions of endodontic origin.

Iron-induced myocardial and hepatic lysosomal abnormalities in the guinea pig

The guinea pig model of iron overload, described in the preceding article, was used to investigate the mechanism of excess iron toxicity in hepatic and cardiac tissues. Effects of iron overload on both lysosomal membrane fragility and membrane peroxidation were studied. The free activity of selected myocardial and hepatic lysosomal enzymes, in addition to serum activity, was measured in guinea pigs treated with iron dextran (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g Fe/kg body weight); controls received dextran. Levels of malondialdehyde were also determined in whole homogenates of heart and liver in animals loaded with 0.5 and 1.5 g Fe/kg of iron dextran. Results indicated that the free activity of hepatic glucosaminidase (p < 0.05) and beta-glucuronidase (p < 0.05) were significantly elevated at all levels of iron loading; hepatic acid phosphatase was increased at all but the lowest iron dose. Similarly, increased serum glucosaminidase activity was observed (p < 0.01) at all dose levels. When compared to pooled controls, the free activity of myocardial glucosaminidase was also elevated (p < 0.05) at all levels of loading. However, myocardial acid phosphatase was increased only at the highest iron dose (p < 0.01). Increased malondialdehyde was measured at the high iron dose (1.5 g Fe/kg) in whole homogenates of both heart and liver (p < 0.01). We conclude that iron loading in this model profoundly alters the stability of hepatic and myocardial lysosomal membranes; furthermore, changes in serum glucosaminidase activity may be reflective of modified tissue lysosomal properties. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde in whole homogenates suggest that iron-mediated lipid peroxidation may be responsible in part for enhanced lysosomal membrane fragility.

Collagenolytic cysteine proteinases of bone tissue. Cathepsin B, (pro)cathepsin L and a cathepsin L-like 70 kDa proteinase

The aim of the work was to identify and characterize the cysteine proteinases of bone tissue, as these enzymes appear necessary for bone resorption. Three cysteine-dependent proteolytic activities were separated from a homogenate of mouse calvaria by a fractionation procedure involving (NH4)2SO4 precipitation, gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. The first two are typical cathepsins B and L with respect to (1) their reactivity with anti-(cathepsin B) and anti-(cathepsin L) antibodies respectively, (2) their relative rate constants for inhibition by benzyloxycarbonyl-Phe-Phe-CHN2 and L-3-carboxy-trans-2,3-epoxypropionyl-L-leucylamido-(4-guanid ino)butane and (3) their enzymic properties, such as the higher activities of cathepsin L against collagen and gelatin as compared with cathepsin B, and the fact that benzyloxycarbonyl-Arg-Arg 4-methoxy-2-naphthylamide is hydrolysed only by cathepsin B. Cathepsin L was mainly recovered in its precursor form, as indicated by its apparent 40 kDa molecular mass and its relative stability at pH 7.2. The third enzyme is a cathepsin L-like proteinase with an apparent molecular mass of 70 kDa. It is immunoprecipitated by anti-(cathepsin L) antibodies, and appears as the 25 kDa band of mature cathepsin L in Western blots. It further resembles (pro)cathepsin L with regard to its activities against synthetic substrates and proteins such as collagen, and with regard to its response to various inhibitors. However, unlike (pro)cathepsin L, it is eluted as a 70 kDa protein on gel filtration (even in the presence of 1% Brij or 1 M-NaCl), it is stable at pH values as high as 9, and it exhibits stronger affinity for phenyl-Sepharose. It might thus result from a strong complex between mature cathepsin L and another entity that confers stability at alkaline pH and favours hydrophobic interactions. This 70 kDa activity was also detected in mouse muscle and long bones of Ca(2+)-deficient chicks but not in mouse liver, spleen or kidney.

Ultrastructural localization of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (purple acid phosphatase) activity in chicken cartilage and bone

Tartrate-resistant acid adenosine triphosphatase activity at pH 6.5, using a lead-salt method, was localized at light and electron microscopic levels in cartilage and bone matrices, osteoclasts, and chondroclasts. Cartilage matrix staining occurred after vascular invasion of the growth plate. In osteoclasts, activity was present in lysosomes, extracellular ruffled border channels, and the underlying cartilage and bone matrices. Staining artifacts occurred at lower pH levels (pH 5.4, 5.0). Adenosine diphosphate, p-nitrophenylphosphate, thiamine pyrophosphate, and alpha-naphthylphosphate also acted as substrates; but no activity was observed when adenosine monophosphate, adenylate-(beta, gamma-methylene) diphosphate, and beta-glycerophosphate were used. The activity was inhibited by NaF, dithionite, and a high concentration of p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, and activated by simultaneous addition of FeCl2 and ascorbic acid, as has been shown in biochemical studies. These histochemical results support the view that the adenosine triphosphate hydrolyzing activity at pH 6.5 is due to tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). There were some differences in ultrastructural localization between TRAP and tartrate-sensitive acid phosphatase (TSAP) activities in osteoclasts: TSAP activity was more intense in lysosomes and Golgi complexes and TRAP was stronger in the cartilage and bone matrices. It is suggested, therefore, that most of TRAP is in an inactive form in cells and is activated when secreted.

Biphasic effect of calcitonin on tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity in isolated rat osteoclasts

Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) has been implicated as being involved in osteoclastic bone resorption, and calcitonin (CT) is known to inhibit the resorptive process. This study investigates the kinetics of CT action on TRAP activity in isolated rat osteoclasts using both biochemical and quantitative cytochemical methods. The latter technique has been developed to detect very small changes in intracellular TRAP activity at the single-cell level. The biochemical study showed that 10(-9) M salmon CT (sCT) decreased TRAP activity in medium throughout the experimental period; TRAP activity in the cells was increased during the first 2 h but subsequently declined and was decreased to a significant level at 6 h. TRAP activity in sCT-treated osteoclasts measured by the cytochemical method showed significant increases within the first hour. This response was dose dependent between 10(-16) and 10(-11) M sCT with EC50 at 8 X 10(-14) M. After 1 h, the initial increase in intracellular TRAP activity in CT-treated osteoclasts was followed by a decline to below control levels, reaching statistical significance at 9 h. Treatment with forskolin (10(-5) M) showed a similar trend, suggesting that this response is mediated by cyclic AMP-regulated phosphorylation events. From these results, we conclude that CT has two actions on TRAP in isolated rat osteoclasts: the first to inhibit its release, the second to inhibit its synthesis and/or increase its degradation.

In vitro studies on bone resorption in neonatal mouse calvariae using a modified dissection technique giving four samples of bone from each calvaria

Bone resorption in a modified bone culture system, based on incubation of small fragments from neonatal mouse calvarial bones, has been studied. Four bone fragments were dissected out from each mouse calvaria and were thereafter cultured in CMRL 1066 medium in plastic multiwell dishes. Bone resorption was assessed by 45Ca release from prelabeled bones. The rate of bone resorption in response to parathyroid hormone (PTH) was less in the anterior part of the calvaria compared to the posterior part. After removing the anterior region, four parietal bone fragments that showed identical basal and PTH-stimulated release of 45Ca could be dissected out from each mouse. Excretion of lactate dehydrogenase and beta-glucuronidase was the same in bones cultured submerged or on grids. Uptake of [3H]thymidine in bones cultured submerged was 54% of [3H]thymidine uptake in bones cultured on grids. Dose-response curves, established by using parietal bone fragments, showed that the sensitivity and the magnitude of the increase in 45Ca release seen after stimulation with PTH, prostaglandin E2, and 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 were the same for bones cultured submerged or on grids. The 45Ca release in response to stimulation with PTH, prostaglandin E2, and 1 alpha-OHD3 was the same in calvarial fragments cultured submerged and those previously obtained with calvarial halves cultured on grids. Thus, even though the rate of DNA synthesis was slower in bones cultured submerged, the rate and the magnitude of resorption were the same in bones cultured on grids or submerged. These data show that it is possible to perform studies on bone resorption with small fragments of neonatal mouse parietal bones.

Stimulation of bone resorption and cell proliferation in vitro by human gingival fibroblasts from patients with periodontal disease

In the present communication we report that fibroblasts, isolated from human gingiva obtained from 13 different patients, secreted soluble product(s) which can promote bone resorption in vitro. Fibroblasts were isolated from explants of human gingiva, subcultured, grown to confluent monolayers, subsequently cultured in growth arrest media for 0-72 h and conditioned media harvested. Bone resorption was assessed in cultured mouse calvarial bone by quantifying the mobilization of minerals and the release of lysosomal enzymes. Human fibroblast-conditioned media (HFCM) dose-dependently stimulated the release of 45Ca from prelabelled bones and the mobilization of stable calcium and inorganic phosphate from unlabelled bones. In addition, HFCM increased the release of beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase from the calvaria. No effect of HFCM on the release of 45Ca from dead bones could be seen. HFCM caused a dose-dependent increased degradation of bone matrix proteins, as assessed by the release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled calvaria. The stimulation of 45Ca release could already be seen after 3-12 h of treatment. Treatment of the bones with HFCM for 12 h was sufficient to obtain a prolonged stimulation of 45Ca release. Bones cultured in the presence of HFCM showed an increased number of osteoclasts. Calcitonin, but not indomethacin, inhibited 45Ca release stimulated by HFCM. Ultrafiltration of HFCM did not cause any loss of the 45Ca release response. The amount of bone-resorbing activity produced by the gingival cells was proportional to the number of cells. In addition, HFCM stimulated the proliferation of human fibroblasts and osteoblast-enriched mouse calvarial bone cells. It is concluded that human gingival fibroblasts secrete one or several factors that can stimulate osteoclastic bone resorption in vitro by a prostaglandin-independent pathway.

Immunolocalization of cathepsin D in dental tissues

Cathepsin D antigenicity was localized at the light and electron microscopic levels within dental cells, but not in extracellular matrix. Different intracellular sites for cathepsin D were found depending on the cell type: the enzyme was detected in secretory vesicles of the odontoblasts and in the lysosome-like structures of the ameloblasts. Otherwise, these results suggest that the secretory vesicles of the odontoblasts may contain both cathepsin D and type I collagen. These data might implicate cathepsin D in the enamel and the dentin formations.

Comparison between the effects of forskolin and calcitonin on bone resorption and osteoclast morphology in vitro

The adenylate cyclase activator forskolin (1-10 mumol/L) inhibited 45Ca release from parathyroid hormone (PTH; 10 nmol/L) stimulated prelabeled neonatal mouse calvaria in short term culture (24 h). This effect of forskolin was potentiated by rolipram, Ro 20-1724, and isobutyl-methylxanthine, three structurally different inhibitors of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase. Forskolin (10 mumol/L) and calcitonin (30 mU/mL) inhibited the mobilization of stable calcium and inorganic phosphate as well as the release of the lysomal enzymes beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase from PTH-stimulated unlabeled bones. Osteoclasts in PTH-stimulated calvaria showed active ruffled borders with numerous membrane infoldings. Treatment of PTH-stimulated bones with forskolin and calcitonin resulted in a rapid (2 h) loss of the active ruffled border. In addition, forskolin and calcitonin induced similar changes with respect to the number and size distribution of cytoplasmic vesicles in PTH-activated osteoclasts. After 24 h, all signs of osteoclast inactivation were still prominent, whereas after 48 h of treatment with forskolin or calcitonin, the reappearance of a ruffled border on a number of osteoclasts signaled an escape from the inhibitory action of both calcitonin or forskolin. These data indicate that forskolin inhibits bone resorption by a cyclic AMP dependent mechanism and that the effect of forskolin and calcitonin on bone resorption and osteoclast morphology are comparable. These observations lend further support to the view that cyclic AMP may be an intracellular mediator of the inhibitory action of calcitonin on multinucleated osteoclasts.

Different tartrate sensitivity and pH optimum for two isoenzymes of acid phosphatase in osteoclasts. An electron-microscopic enzyme-cytochemical study

By differentiation of substrate specificity, pH optimum range, and sensitivity to various inhibitors, 2 isoenzymes of acid phosphatase in bone cells have been studied at the electron-microscopic level. When p-nitrophenyl phosphate was used for the substrate, the demonstrable enzyme activity was affected by neither tartrate nor sodium fluoride. The reaction product, when incubated at pH 5-6, was detected in all sites along the pathway for the biosynthesis of acid phosphatase in the osteoclast, including the perinuclear space, cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, various vesicles, and vacuoles. In the osteoclasts attached to bone, the enzymatic activity was demonstrated at the extracellular ruffled border and on the eroded bone surface. Reaction products became confined to lysosomes and extracellular ruffled border when incubated at pH 6-7. Unattached osteoclasts showed a similar intracytoplasmic localization of enzyme as the attached ones, except for the absence of the extracellular enzyme activity. The mononuclear, immature type of osteoclast also resembled the mature osteoclast in terms of enzymatic localization. Except for the osteoclasts, the acid p-nitrophenyl phosphatase activity was restricted to lysosomal vesicles in various bone cells, monocytes, and macrophages. Such activity was inhibited by adding 50 mM tartrate to the p-nitrophenyl phosphate medium. When beta-glycerophosphate or p-nitrocatechol sulfate was the substrate, most of the reaction product was localized intracellularly. Unlike the acid p-nitrophenyl phosphatase, the acid beta-glycerophosphatase or arylsulfatase activity in osteoclasts and other bone cells was inhibited completely by 10 mM tartrate or 10 mM sodium fluoride.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A quantitative cytochemical assay for osteoclast acid phosphatase activity in foetal rat calvaria

Acid phosphatase activity is prominent in osteoclasts (bone resorbing cells) and has been implicated in the process of bone resorption, although its precise role is not understood. To study the distribution and activity of this enzyme, a quantitative cytochemical method has been developed using undecalcified fresh frozen sections of foetal rat calvariae. Sections were allowed to react with 3 mM naphthol ASBI phosphate at pH 5.0, and the reaction was stopped by rinsing in ice-cold tap water containing 50 mM sodium fluoride. The reaction product was post-coupled to Fast Garnet at 4 degrees C. The absorbance of areas of reaction product in the cytoplasm was measured using scanning and integrating microdensitometry. The initial velocity rate was maintained for up to 2 min at pH 5.0 with a substrate concentration of 3 mM and a section thickness of 5 micron. Under these conditions reaction product was localized to osteoclasts and the surface of bone matrix beneath these cells. Activities in osteoblasts and chondrocytes were negligible. Osteoclastic acid phosphatase was almost totally inhibited by 10 mM fluoride and reduced by 70% by 100 mM tartrate.

Blood coagulation and bone metabolism: some characteristics of the bone resorptive effect of thrombin in mouse calvarial bones in vitro

Chronic inflammatory processes are often associated with bone resorption. Stimulated by the current great interest in the role of coagulation factors in inflammation and immune injury, we have studied the effect of thrombin on mouse calvarial bones in vitro. Thrombin caused a dose-dependent (0.1-7 U/ml) stimulation of 45Ca release from neonatal mouse calvarial bones. Thrombin also stimulated the mobilization of stable calcium and inorganic phosphate, the release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled calvaria, the production of lactate and the release of the lysosomal enzymes, beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. Thrombin also enhanced 45Ca release from fetal rat long bones, although this bone resorption assay was less sensitive to thrombin than the mouse calvarial system. The bone resorption stimulatory activity of thrombin in mouse calvaria could be inhibited by calcitonin and an increased concentration of phosphate in the culture medium. Thrombin-induced 45Ca release in mouse calvaria was sensitive to inhibition by hydrocortisone and dexamethasone. By contrast, 45Ca release response to parathyroid hormone was insensitive to corticosteroids. The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors indomethacin, meclofenamic acid and naproxen and 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid reduced 45Ca release from thrombin-stimulated calvaria. However, significant stimulation by thrombin could be achieved also in bones treated with inhibitors of arachidonate metabolism. The results obtained suggest that thrombin can stimulate cell-mediated bone resorption by an osteoclast-dependent mechanism. The mechanism of action may involve both prostaglandin-dependent and prostaglandin-independent pathways. Our findings indicate that thrombin may contribute to the bone resorptive processes seen in periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

Inhibition of bone resorption in vitro by serine-esterase inhibitors

The effect of two synthetic serine esterase inhibitors, N-alpha-dansyl(p-guanidino)phenylalaninepiperidine hydrochloride (I 2581) and D-phenylalanyl-L-prolyl-L-arginine chloromethyl ketone (D-Phe-Pro-Arg-CH2Cl), on bone resorption in organ cultured mouse calvaria from neonatal mice has been examined. Mineral mobilization was assessed by analyzing the release of 45Ca, stable calcium (Ca2+) and inorganic phosphate (Pi). Organic matrix degradation was studied by analyzing the release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled bones, and by quantifying the amounts of hydroxyproline in bone after culture. It was found that I 2581, at and above 30 mumol/l, dose-dependently inhibited 45Ca release induced by thrombin, parathyroid hormone (PTH), prostaglandin E2 and 1-alpha-hydroxyvitamin D-3. I 2581 (50 mumol/l) inhibited PTH-stimulated release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled bones, and this effect was reversible after withdrawal of I 2581. I 2581 (50 mumol/l) inhibited the release of Ca2+, Pi, beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase in bones stimulated by PTH and 1-alpha-hydroxyvitamin D-3, without affecting the release of lactate dehydrogenase. In parallel, I 2581 decreased PTH and 1-alpha-hydroxyvitamin D-3 induced reduction of hydroxyproline levels in bones after culture. I 2581 (50 mumol/l) did not affect the basal release of 45Ca, Ca2+, beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase, nor the basal amounts of hydroxyproline in bones after culture. D-Phe-Pro-Arg-CH2Cl (100 mumol/l) significantly inhibited PTH- and PGE2-induced release of 45Ca without affecting basal release of radioactive calcium. These data indicate that activation of serine proteinase(s) may be a necessary step in the mechanism of action of several stimulators of bone resorption.

Stimulatory effect of zinc on bone formation in tissue culture

The present investigation was undertaken to clarify the in vitro effect of zinc on bone metabolism in tissue culture. Calvaria were removed from weanling rats (3-week-old males) and cultured for periods up to 96 hr in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (high glucose, 4500 mg/dl) supplemented with antibiotics and bovine serum albumin. The experimental cultures contained 10(-7) to 10(-3) M zinc sulfate. All cultures were incubated at 37 degrees in 5% CO2/95% air. Zinc uptake by bone was increased significantly in cultures with concentrations of zinc greater than 10(-6) M. Bone calcium content was increased significantly by the presence of 10(-4) M zinc. This increase was blocked by the presence of 10(-6) M cycloheximide. Bone alkaline phosphatase activity was elevated in the presence of zinc (10(-6) to 10(-3) M), but the effect was inhibited by 10(-7) M cycloheximide or 10(-8) M actinomycin D. Zinc (10(-4) M) also significantly increased ATPase activity in the bone, whereas it did not alter significantly by pyrophosphatase, acid phosphatase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase activities. Furthermore, bone collagen content was raised by 10(-6) to 10(-4) M zinc. This elevation was prevented by 10(-7) cycloheximide or 10(-8) M actinomycin D. Bone DNA content and [3H]thymidine incorporation by the bone were not altered significantly by 10(-4) M zinc. These findings indicate that the zinc had a direct stimulatory effect on bone mineralization in vitro, and that bone protein synthesis was a necessary component of this response. Zinc may stimulate bone formation in tissue culture.

Effects of cholera toxin on cyclic AMP accumulation and bone resorption in cultured mouse calvaria

We have utilized the adenylate cyclase stimulator, cholera toxin, as a tool to test the role of cyclic AMP as a mediator of the effects on bone resorption by the calcium-regulating hormones, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin. The effects on bone resorption were studied in an organ culture system using calvarial bones from newborn mice. Cyclic AMP response was assayed in calvarial bone explants and isolated osteoblasts from neonatal mouse calvaria. Cholera toxin caused a dose-dependent cAMP response in calvarial bones, seen at and above approx. 1-3 ng/ml and calculated half-maximal stimulation (EC50) at 18 ng/ml. The stimulatory effect of cholera toxin could be potentiated by the phosphodiesterase inhibitor isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX, 0.2 mmol/l). Cyclic AMP accumulation in the bones was maximal after 4-6 h, and thereafter declined. However, activation of the adenylate cyclase was irreversible and the total amount (bone + medium) of cAMP produced, in the presence of IBMX (0.2 mmol/l), increased with time, for at least 48 h. In osteoblast-like cells cholera toxin (1 microgram/ml) stimulated the cellular levels of cAMP with a peak after 60-120 min, which could be potentiated with IBMX. The total cAMP accumulation indicated an irreversible response. In short-term bone organ cultures (at most, 24 h) cholera toxin, at and above 3 ng/ml, inhibited the stimulatory effect of PTH (10 nmol/l) on 45Ca release from prelabelled calvarial bones. The inhibitory effect of cholera toxin (0.1 microgram/ml) on 45Ca release was significant after 6 h and the calculated IC50 value at 24 h was 11.2 ng/ml. Cholera toxin (0.1 microgram/ml) also inhibited PTH-stimulated (10 nmol/l) release of Ca2+, inorganic phosphate (Pi), beta-glucuronidase, beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase and degradation of organic matrix (release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled bones) in 24 h cultures. 45Ca release from bones stimulated by prostaglandin E2 (1 mumol/l) and 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 (0.1 mumol/l) was also inhibited by cholera toxin (0.3 microgram/ml) in 24-h cultures. The inhibitory effect of cholera toxin on bone resorption was transient, and in long-term cultures (120 h) cholera toxin caused a dose-dependent, delayed stimulation of mineral mobilization (Ca2+, 45Ca, Pi), degradation of matrix and release of the lysosomal enzymes beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Prostaglandin E2 causes a transient inhibition of mineral mobilization, matrix degradation, and lysosomal enzyme release from mouse calvarial bones in vitro

The effect of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on the kinetic of bone resorption in vitro was assessed by following the release of minerals and degradation of matrix in cultured mouse calvarial bones. PGE2 (1 and 3 mumol/liter) caused an initial inhibition of the release of 45Ca, stable calcium, and inorganic phosphate from unstimulated calvarial bones. The effect was transient and after 24 and 48 hours the release of 45Ca, stable calcium, and inorganic phosphate from PGE2-treated bones was enhanced. 0.3 mumol/liter of PGE2 stimulated the release of 45Ca after 24 hours, but at this concentration no initial inhibition was observed. The initial inhibitory effect of PGE2 (1 mumol/liter) could be further increased by three structurally different inhibitors of cyclic AMP breakdown. PGE2 (1 mumol/liter) caused not only an initial inhibition of mineral release but also an initial inhibition of matrix degradation, as assessed by the release of 3H from [3H]-proline labeled bones. In addition, PGE2 (3 mumol/liter), in the presence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor isobutylmethylxanthine, caused a rapid (6 hours) inhibition of the release of the lysosomal enzymes beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, without affecting the release of the cytosolic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. Similar specific initial inhibition of lysosomal enzyme release was also seen in the presence of calcitonin and dibutyryl cyclic AMP, but not in the presence of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Neither PGE2 nor the phosphodiesterase inhibitors rolipram and Ro 20.1724, could inhibit the initial stages of PTH-induced 45Ca release. Nor did PGE2 inhibit the stimulation of radioactive calcium mobilization induced by 1 alpha (OH)-vitamin D3.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effects of four bisphosphonates on bone resorption, lysosomal enzyme release, protein synthesis and mitotic activities in mouse calvarial bones in vitro

The effects of 3-amino-1-hydroxy-propylidene-1,1-bisphosphonate (AHPrBP), 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-bisphosphonate (HEBP), dichloromethylenebisphosphonate (Cl2MBP) and azacycloheptylidene-2,2-bisphosphonate (AHBP) on bone were examined in organ culture using newborn mice calvaria. AHPrBP, HEBP and Cl2MBP caused a dose-dependent inhibition of PTH-stimulated (10 nmol/l) release of 45Ca from the calvaria, at and above a concentration of 3 mumol/l, whereas AHBP only caused a slight inhibition, at and above 100 mumol/l. AHPrBP inhibited PTH-stimulated release of 3H from bones prelabelled with [3H]-proline. AHPrBP (30 mumol/l) diminished the stimulatory effect of 1 alpha(OH)vitamin D3 (10 nmol/l), prostaglandin E2 (0.1 mumol/l) and renal tumor conditioned media on 45Ca release. AHPrBP and Cl2MBP, at and above 3 mumol/l, decreased PTH-stimulated mobilization of Ca2+ and Pi and in parallel the release of beta-glucuronidase without affecting the release of lactate dehydrogenase. The inhibitory effect of AHPrBP (30 mumol/l) on PTH-induced 45Ca release was irreversible. The inhibition by AHPrBP (30 mumol/l) on spontaneous and PTH-stimulated release of 45Ca can be seen first after 24 h of culture. Similarly the inhibitory effect by HEBP (30 mumol/l) and Cl2MBP (30 mumol/l) was delayed and could be observed after 36 and 24 h of culture, respectively. PTH-stimulated release of Ca2+, Pi, beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase was reduced by AHPrBP first after 24 h of culture. AHPrBP, HEBP and Cl2MBP, at concentrations which are inhibitory on bone resorption, do not affect protein synthesis and mitotic activities in mouse calvaria. These data show that AHPrBP, HEBP and Cl2MBP inhibit bone resorption in vitro and in parallel decrease lysosomal enzyme release by a mechanism, which is not related to cytotoxicity. In addition, the delayed inhibitory effect on bone resorption and lysosomal enzyme release by all the compounds suggest that bisphosphonates inhibit bone resorption indirectly and not by a direct effect on existing osteoclasts. The delayed inhibition by bisphosphonates on bone resorption may be due to decreased recruitment of new osteoclasts as a consequence of an inhibitory action on mononuclear osteoclast precursor cells.

Use of forskolin to study the relationship between cyclic AMP formation and bone resorption in vitro

The effect of the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin on bone resorption and cyclic AMP accumulation was studied in an organ-culture system by using calvarial bones from 6-7-day-old mice. Forskolin caused a rapid and fully reversible increase of cyclic AMP, which was maximal after 20-30 min. The phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram (30 mumol/l), enhanced the cyclic AMP response to forskolin (50 mumol/l) from a net cyclic AMP response of 1234 +/- 154 pmol/bone to 2854 +/- 193 pmol/bone (mean +/- S.E.M., n = 4). The cyclic AMP level in bones treated with forskolin (30 mumol/l) was significantly increased after 24 h of culture. Forskolin, at and above 0.3 mumol/l, in the absence and the presence of rolipram (30 mumol/l), caused a dose-dependent cyclic AMP accumulation with an calculated EC50 (concentration producing half-maximal stimulation) value at 8.3 mumol/l. In 24 h cultures forskolin inhibited spontaneous and PTH (parathyroid hormone)-stimulated 45Ca release with calculated IC50 (concentration producing half-maximal inhibition) values at 1.6 and 0.6 mumol/l respectively. Forskolin significantly inhibited the release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled bones stimulated by PTH (10 nmol/l). The inhibitory effect by forskolin on PTH-stimulated 45Ca release was significant already after 3 h of culture. In 24 h cultures forskolin (3 mumol/l) significantly inhibited 45Ca release also from bones stimulated by prostaglandin E2 (1 mumol/l) and 1 alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol (0.1 mumol/l). The inhibitory effect of forskolin on spontaneous and PTH-stimulated 45Ca release was transient. A dose-dependent stimulation of basal 45Ca release was seen in 120 h cultures, at and above 3 nmol of forskolin/l, with a calculated EC50 value at 16 nmol/l. The stimulatory effect of forskolin (1 mumol/l) could be inhibited by calcitonin (0.1 unit/ml), but was insensitive to indomethacin (1 mumol/l). Forskolin increased the release of 3H from [3H]proline-labelled bones cultured for 120 h and decreased the amount of hydroxyproline in bones after culture. Forskolin inhibited PTH-stimulated release of Ca2+, Pi, beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase in 24 h cultures. In 120 h cultures forskolin stimulated the basal release of minerals and lysosomal enzymes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Action of zinc on bone metabolism in rats. Increases in alkaline phosphatase activity and DNA content

The effects of zinc on the enzymes of femoral tissue were investigated in weanling rats that had been given zinc sulfate (1.0 mg Zn2+/100 g body wt) p.o. for 3 days. Administration of zinc caused a marked elevation of alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase activities, whereas it did not cause significant changes in succinate dehydrogenase, 5'-nucleotidase, ATPase, pyrophosphatase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase activities. The effect of zinc was greater on alkaline phosphatase of the femoral diaphysis. Zinc content of the femoral diaphysis was raised significantly by administration of zinc. The addition of zinc in concentrations of 10(-2)-10(2) microM did not produce a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase activity in the femoral diaphysis, indicating that zinc could not activate the enzyme. Administration of cycloheximide or actinomycin D completely inhibited the increase in alkaline phosphatase activity produced by administration of zinc. DNA content of the femoral diaphysis, but not epiphysis, was increased markedly by administration of zinc. The increases in both alkaline phosphatase activity and DNA content of the femoral diaphysis were not caused by administration of copper, manganese, cobalt, nickel and chromium(III). The present investigation suggests that zinc may induce the increase in alkaline phosphatase related to DNA synthesis and, as a result, stimulate bone growth.

Studies on the chronic phase of adjuvant arthritis: effect of SR 41319, a new diphosphonate

We studied the course of adjuvant arthritis in rats by measuring clinical, biochemical, and histological parameters on day 36 after induction (representing the secondary reaction) and on day 171, which is at the stage of permanent deformity. The effect of SR 41319, a new diphosphonate, was evaluated on days 36 and 171, after three weeks of treatment (days 14-35 inclusive). In the absence of treatment all the measured parameters were markedly abnormal on day 36, indicating the presence of lesions that were still evolving. On day 171 clinical parameters and the lesion histological index remained the same, whereas the biochemical parameters and disease activity histological index had returned to normal, indicating that the lesions at this stage although severe were not inflammatory and consequently not progressing. SR 41319 treatment reduced the severity and progression of the disease both on day 36 and on day 171. We conclude that SR 41319 may be a potentially useful drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Purification and characterization of purple acid phosphatase from rat bone

An acid phosphatase, which was immunochemically identical to splenic purple acid phosphatase, was purified to homogeneity from rat bone. The enzyme was a two iron-containing monomeric glycoprotein with a mol. wt of 36,000. The enzyme hydrolyzed aryl phosphates, nucleoside di- and triphosphates, thiamine pyrophosphate, phosphoenolpyruvic acid and acidic phosphoproteins. The enzyme was inhibited by ammonium molybdate, NaF and CuSO4 but not by tartrate and SH-reagents.

A new synthetic inhibitor of mammalian tissue collagenase inhibits bone resorption in culture

A specific and potent synthetic inhibitor of mammalian tissue collagenase and related metallo-proteinases inhibits the collagen matrix resorption induced by parathyroid hormone (PTH) in cultured embryonic mouse calvaria. The inhibition is reversible, dose-dependent and virtually complete at 50 microM inhibitor concentration whereas that due to a less potent stereoisomer is much weaker. The PTH-enhanced secretion of calvarial lysosomal enzymes and the small spontaneous leakage of lactate dehydrogenase are not affected by the inhibitor. These results suggest that collagenase plays a critical role in bone resorption. Its role is discussed in relation to that of cysteine-proteinases that have also been implicated in this process.

Diphenylhydantoin inhibits parathyroid hormone and prostaglandin E2-stimulated bone resorption in mouse calvaria without affecting cyclic AMP formation

The effect of diphenylhydantoin (DPH) on mouse calvarial bone metabolism was studied in vitro. DPH caused a dose-dependent, reversible inhibition of PTH and PGE2-stimulated bone resorption at concentrations above 20-30 micrograms/ml without affecting cyclic AMP formation. The inhibition was observed already after 60 min and was accompanied by a reduced release of the lysosomal enzymes beta-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. The calcium antagonist Verapamil had similar effects on bone resorption and lysosomal enzyme release and it is suggested that DPH influences bone resorption by interfering with calcium fluxes across osteoclastic cell membranes resulting in low intracellular calcium levels and reduced exocytotic processes.

A combined assay of three lysosomal marker enzymes: acid phosphatase, beta-D-glucuronidase, and beta-N-acetyl-D-hexosaminidase

A simplified and rapid method for simultaneous activity measurements of three lysosomal marker enzymes, acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase, and beta-N-acetyl-D-hexosaminidase is described. The incubation is carried out in a single test tube and stopped by adding an alkaline sodium dodecyl sulfate solution, thus avoiding centrifugations and allowing for higher Triton X-100 concentrations in the incubation media. Two products of the beta-glycosidases (phenolphthalein and 2-nitrophenolate) are measured spectrophotometrically at the respective wavelengths (555 and 420 nm), and one of the acid phosphatase products is quantitatively determined by measuring inorganic phosphate.

Effect of levamisole on bone resorption in cultured mouse calvaria

The effects of levamisole (LT), dexamisole (DT), levo-p-bromotetramisole (LBT) and dextro-p-bromotetramisole (DBT) on bone were examined in an organ culture system using calvarial bones from newborn mice. LBT and DBT at concentrations 30 microM and greater and LT and DT at concentrations 100 microM and greater caused a dose-dependent, reversible inhibitory effect on mineral mobilization and matrix degradation. LBT, DBT (100 and 300 microM) as well as LT and DT (greater than or equal to 100 microM) reduced the spontaneous release of beta-glucuronidase without having any marked effect on the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). LT and DT did not influence protein synthesis but LBT and LBT were inhibitory in concentrations at and above 100 microM. Mitotic activity, as assessed by incorporation of [3H]thymidine, was inhibited by LBT and DBT (0.1, 1 mM). LT and LBT caused a stereospecific inhibition of GPase, PPiase and ATPase. It is concluded that tetramisoles are potent, non-stereospecific inhibitors of bone resorption in vitro.

The bisphosphonates HEBP and AHPrBP but not AHBP inhibit mineral mobilization and lysosomal enzyme release from mouse calvarial bones in tissue culture

The effect of 3 bisphosphonates, 1-hydroxyethylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonate (HEBP), 3-amino-1-hydroxy-propylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonate (AHPrBP) and azacycloheptylidene-2, 2-bisphosphonate (AHBP), on the release of minerals (40Ca, 45Ca, Pi) and enzymes from cultured mouse calvaria was investigated in an organ culture system. HEBP and AHPrBP reduced PTH-stimulated mobilization of calcium and inorganic phosphate without affecting the release of lactate dehydrogenase. In contrast, no significant effect by AHBP on mineral mobilization and lysosomal enzyme release could be registered. In parallel with inhibited mineral mobilization, HEBP and AHPrBP inhibited the release of the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucuronidase. A possible cellular mechanism of action of bisphosphonates is discussed in the light of these data.

Bradykinin stimulates bone resorption and lysosomal-enzyme release in cultured mouse calvaria

The effect of bradykinin on bone resorption was studied in cultures of newborn-mouse calvaria. Bradykinin (0.03 microM, 1 microM) stimulated the release of 45Ca2+ from bones dissected out from mice prelabelled in vivo with 45Ca. Bradykinin (1 microM) also augmented the release of stable calcium ( 40Ca ), Pi and the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucuronidase. The stimulatory effect of bradykinin on mineral mobilization and lysosmal -enzyme release could be blocked by indomethacin. It is speculated that concomitant generation of thrombin and bradykinin in areas of trauma and inflammation may induce resorption of nearby bone tissue.

Studies on the mechanisms by which 2-chloroadenosine stimulates bone resorption in tissue culture

The effect of 2-chloroadenosine on bone resorption was studied in calvarial bones from 6-7-day-old mice in organ culture. 2-Chloroadenosine stimulated the mobilization of minerals (40Ca, 45Ca) and increased the degradation of matrix ([3H]proline) from the bones. The nucleoside also caused an increased release of beta-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme. In doses above 30 microM 2-chloroadenosine was cytotoxic, as evidenced by an increased release of lactate dehydrogenase. 2-Chloroadenosine-stimulated resorption could be inhibited by calcitonin, increased concentration of phosphate in culture medium, cortisone, dexamethasone, indomethacin, naproxen, meclofenamic acid and 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid. 2-Chloroadenosine was much more sensitive to inhibition by dexamethasone than was parathyroid hormone. The response to the maximal dose of 2-chloroadenosine could not be enhanced by parathyroid hormone, 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D-3 and prostaglandin E2. An exposure to 2-chloroadenosine for 12 h was not sufficient to produce prolonged resorption. The results suggest that 2-chloroadenosine stimulated bone resorption by a process which is dependent on osteoclastic activity. The possibility that the effect of 2-chloroadenosine, either directly or indirectly, is related to formation of prostaglandins is discussed in the light of the above data.

Multiple forms of acid phosphatase in rat secretory enamel organ

Acid phosphatase activity was studied biochemically in homogenates of secretory enamel organs from the rat. Incubations with crude homogenate failed to show distinct pH optima or kinetics characteristic for single enzymes. Crude homogenate activity was strongly inhibited by concentrations higher than 1 mM of NaF and Na-tartrate, and higher than 10 mM of ZnSO4 and para-bromotetramisole oxalate. 10 mM MgCl2 gave a slight stimulation. CaCl2, KCl and EDTA were uneffective. Electrophoretic separation of the crude homogenate acid phosphatase on Triton X-100 containing polyacrylamide gel demonstrated the presence of at least three multiple forms of the enzyme. Two of them showed distinct pH optima at pH 4.4. The third one showed a broad pH plateau in the acid pH range. Kinetic studies of the three forms indicated single enzyme reactions. Two forms had electrophoretic mobilities similar to alkaline phosphatase. One form could be solubilized only after Triton X-100 treatment. All forms were strongly sensitive to 10 mM NaF when added to the reaction mixture. The sensibility to 10 mM ZnSO4, CuSO4, Na-tartrate and para-bromotetramisole oxalate differed between the different forms.

Structure and metabolism of proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans

Proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans have the common structural characteristics of linear polysaccharide chains consisting of a hexosamine alternating with another sugar. They play an important role in skin as part of the support matrix of connective tissue, and may be related to cell-cell, and cell-matrix interactions. In general the polysaccharide chains are covalently linked to protein and may contain varying amounts of sulfate resulting in a strong negative charge. Biosynthesis consists of the formation of the protein core followed by the sequential addition of sugars and sulfate to the nonreducing ends of growing chains. The synthetic process is highly organized with the final polysaccharide polymerization and sulfation taking place in the Golgi. Degradation of the proteoglycans is less well understood but probably involves endoglycosidases, exoglycosidases, and proteases which work in concert to degrade these substances.

Inhibition of 1 alpha-hydroxy-vitamin D3 stimulated bone resorption in tissue culture by the calcium antagonist verapamil

The effect of the calcium antagonist verapamil on 1 alpha-hydroxy-vitamin D3 (1 alpha (OH)D3) stimulated bone resorption in tissue culture has been investigated. It was found that verapamil in concentrations above 20 mumol/l reduced 1 alpha (OH)D3-stimulated mineral mobilization, as measured by release of in vivo incorporated 45Ca from mouse calvarial bones. The inhibition of verapamil could be seen already 3 h after exposure to the drug. The increased degradation by 1 alpha (OH)D3 of the organic matrix in the calvaria, as assessed by the release of in vivo 3H-proline labelled collagen, was also reduced by verapamil. The inhibitory effect of the drug on 45Ca release was reversible after withdrawal. 1 alpha (OH)D3 increased the release of stable calcium and beta-glucuronidase, and these effects could be blocked by verapamil. Increasing medium calcium concentration from 1.8 to 5 mmol/l slightly reduced the inhibitory capacity of 50 mumol/l verapamil on 1 alpha (OH)D3-stimulated 45Ca release. These data indicate that stimulation of osteoclasts by hydroxylated metabolites of vitamin D to resorb bone and secrete lysosomal enzyme is dependent on an increased availability of free intracellular calcium.

Enzyme histochemical studies of induced heterotopic cartilage and bone formation in guinea pigs with special reference to acid phosphatase

Heterotopic bone and cartilage formation was studied in a bone induction model in abdominal muscles of guinea pigs using the demineralized allogenic dentin as inductive material. The light microscopic study showed high activity of acid phosphatase (AcP) and leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) in young matrix-producing cells. The highest activity was seen in cells surrounded by unmineralized matrix. In the surrounding matrix there was strong staining of AcP, especially in matrix with high glycosaminoglycan content. Electron microscopic studies of AcP in sections from unfixed frozen tissue showed intracellular activity mainly located in lysosomes. Extracellular AcP activity was found in matrix vesicles in the newly formed hard tissue. It was most pronounced in areas of cartilaginous differentiation. By means of energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis in a scanning transmission electron microscope, the deposits were confirmed to contain led precipitates. With the exception of some lysosomal staining, prefixation with formaldehyde prevented demonstration of the enzyme activity. Both AcP and LAP may be involved in degradation of organic components of the matrix which enable the matrix to mineralize.

The influence of hyaluronidase on urinary and renal medullary composition following antidiuretic stimulus in the rat

1. The influence of urinary hyaluronidase (believed to be predominantly of renal origin) on the urinary concentrating process has been studied in rats subjected to antidiuretic stimulus. 2. Antiserum against a partially purified preparation of this enzyme has been raised in rabbits. Urinary volume, solute excretion and medullary composition have been investigated in rats treated with this antiserum (0.2 ml./100 g body weight, i.v.) before water deprivation for 48 hr or infusion for up to 4 hr with arginine-vasopressin. Control rats were pre-treated with normal rabbit serum. 3. Pre-treatment with antiserum against rat urinary hyaluronidase (AUase) caused water-deprived rats to excrete urine at a rate significantly greater, and of osmolality significantly lower, than that recorded in control rats. 4. The increase in medullary solute gradient which typically accompanies antidiuresis was significantly reduced in water-deprived rats pre-treated with AUase. 5. In rats treated with AUase and infused for 4 hr with arginine-vasopressin, there was no significant increase in the medullary solute gradient, whereas this increased markedly in control rats. 6. During the first 24 hr of water deprivation there weas an increase in the rate of Ca excretion by control rats which was abolished by pre-treatment with AUase. 7. The effects of antiserum against a partially purified preparation of rat testicular hyaluronidase (ATase) were studied in water-deprived rats. No evidence was obtained that this enzyme has any influence on renal function. 8. It is concluded that urinary hyaluronidase, but not testicular hyaluronidase, plays an important role in facilitating the urinary concentrating process following antidiuretic stimulus.