Calcium- and polyphosphate-containing acidic granules of sea urchin eggs are similar to acidocalcisomes, but are not the targets for NAADP

Identifying the composition of large vesicles in the cytoplasm of oocytes

Context Oocyte vesicles, or vacuoles, have been described using transmission electron microscopy in most species. In sheep and cow oocytes, vesicles constitute up to 30% of the cytoplasm, their volume decreases during maturation and is lower in poorer quality oocytes, suggesting they are important for oocyte competence. However, the composition and function of these organelles is unknown. Aim This study aimed to ascertain the content of oocyte vesicles and examine the effect of different fixation methods on the size and preservation of these organelles. Methods Sheep oocytes were centrifuged to segregate organelles then stained with organelle-specific fluorescent dyes (Nile Red, LysoTracker, Fluo-4-AM and TMRM) and imaged by live cell confocal microscopy. The oocytes were fixed with either glutaraldehyde or paraformaldehyde and prepared for electron microscopy to confirm the distribution of organelles and compare ultrastructure and organelle size. Key results Nile Red staining has identified that vesicles contain lipid that is different to that in the osmium-stained lipid droplets observed by electron microscopy. Lipid droplets and vesicles were significantly smaller when prepared for electron microscopy compared to live cell imaging. Organelles were less likely to be fully segregated following centrifugation in oocytes prior to maturation (20%) compared to oocytes after maturation (77%; P Conclusions Oocyte vesicles are lipid storing organelles that may be important for oocyte quality. Implications This study highlights the importance of lipid for oocyte quality and the need for further research to identify the optimal fatty acid content for in vitro maturation media and oocyte competence.

Advances in the cellular biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of acidocalcisomes

SUMMARYAcidocalcisomes are organelles conserved during evolution and closely related to the so-called volutin granules of bacteria and archaea, to the acidocalcisome-like vacuoles of yeasts, and to the lysosome-related organelles of animal species. All these organelles have in common their acidity and high content of polyphosphate and calcium. They are characterized by a variety of functions from storage of phosphorus and calcium to roles in Ca2+ signaling, osmoregulation, blood coagulation, and inflammation. They interact with other organelles through membrane contact sites or by fusion, and have several enzymes, pumps, transporters, and channels.

Structural and functional regulation of Chlamydomonas lysosome-related organelles during environmental changes

Lysosome-related organelles (LROs) are a class of heterogeneous organelles conserved in eukaryotes that primarily play a role in storage and secretion. An important function of LROs is to mediate metal homeostasis. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a model organism for studying metal ion metabolism; however, structural and functional analyses of LROs in C. reinhardtii are insufficient. Here, we optimized a method for purifying these organelles from 2 populations of cells: stationary phase or overloaded with iron. The morphology, elemental content, and lysosomal activities differed between the 2 preparations, even though both have phosphorus and metal ion storage functions. LROs in stationary phase cells had multiple non-membrane-bound polyphosphate granules to store phosphorus. Those in iron-overloaded cells were similar to acidocalcisomes (ACs), which have a boundary membrane and contain 1 or 2 large polyphosphate granules to store more phosphorus. We established a method for quantifying the capacity of LROs to sequester individual trace metals. Based on a comparative proteomic analysis of these 2 types of LROs, we present a comprehensive AC proteome and identified 113 putative AC proteins. The methods and protein inventories provide a framework for studying the biogenesis and modification of LROs and the mechanisms by which they participate in regulating metal ion metabolism.

Characterization of Endo-Lysosomal Cation Channels Using Calcium Imaging

Endo-lysosomes are membrane-bound acidic organelles that are involved in endocytosis, recycling, and degradation of extracellular and intracellular material. The membranes of endo-lysosomes express several Ca²⁺-permeable cation ion channels, including two-pore channels (TPC1-3) and transient receptor potential mucolipin channels (TRPML1-3). In this chapter, we will describe four different state-of-the-art Ca²⁺ imaging approaches, which are well-suited to investigate the function of endo-lysosomal cation channels. These techniques include (1) global cytosolic Ca²⁺ measurements, (2) peri-endo-lysosomal Ca²⁺ imaging using genetically encoded Ca²⁺ sensors that are directed to the cytosolic endo-lysosomal membrane surface, (3) Ca²⁺ imaging of endo-lysosomal cation channels, which are engineered in order to redirect them to the plasma membrane in combination with approaches 1 and 2, and (4) Ca²⁺ imaging by directing Ca²⁺ indicators to the endo-lysosomal lumen. Moreover, we will review useful small molecules, which can be used as valuable tools for endo-lysosomal Ca²⁺ imaging. Rather than providing complete protocols, we will discuss specific methodological issues related to endo-lysosomal Ca²⁺ imaging.

Elemental compositions of sea urchin larval cell vesicles evaluated by cryo-STEM-EDS and cryo-SEM-EDS

During spicule formation in sea urchin larvae, calcium ions translocate within the primary mesenchymal cells (PMCs) from endocytosed seawater vacuoles to various organelles and vesicles where they accumulate, and subsequently precipitate. During this process, calcium ions are concentrated by more than three orders of magnitude, while other abundant ions (Na, Mg) must be removed. To obtain information about the overall ion composition in the vesicles, we used quantitative cryo-SEM-EDS and cryo-STEM-EDS analyzes. For cryo-STEM-EDS, thin (500 nm) frozen hydrated lamellae of PMCs were fabricated using cryo-focused ion beam-SEM. The lamellae were then loaded into a cryo-TEM, imaged and the ion composition of electron dense bodies was measured. Analyzes performed on 18 Ca-rich particles/particle clusters from 6 cells contained Ca, Na, Mg, S and P in different ratios. Surprisingly, all the Ca-rich particles contained P in amounts up to almost 1:1 of Ca. These cryo-STEM-EDS results were qualitatively confirmed by cryo-SEM-EDS analyzes of 310 vesicles, performed on high pressure frozen and cryo-planed samples. We discuss the advantages and limitations of the two techniques, and their potential applicability, especially to study ion transport pathways and ion trafficking in cells involved in mineralization. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The 'inorganic side of life', encompassing ion trafficking and ion storage in soft tissues of organisms, is a generally overlooked problem. Addressing such a problem becomes possible through the application of innovative techniques, performed in cryogenic conditions, which preserve the tissues in quasi-physiological state. We developed here a set of analytical tools, cryo-SEM-EDS, and cryo-STEM-EDS, which allow reconstructing the ion composition inside vesicles in sea urchin larval cells, on their way to deposit mineral in the skeletons. The techniques are complex, and we evaluate here the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. The methodologies that we are developing here can be applied to other cells and other pathways as well, eventually leading to quantitative elemental analyzes of tissues under cryogenic conditions.

New insights into the role of acidocalcisomes in trypanosomatids

Acidocalcisomes are electron-dense organelles rich in polyphosphate and inorganic and organic cations that are acidified by proton pumps, and possess several channels, pumps, and transporters. They are present in bacteria and eukaryotes and have been studied in greater detail in trypanosomatids. Biogenesis studies of trypanosomatid acidocalcisomes found that they share properties with lysosome-related organelles of animal cells. In addition to their described roles in autophagy, cation and phosphorus storage, osmoregulation, pH homeostasis, and pathogenesis, recent studies have defined the role of these organelles in phosphate utilization, calcium ion (Ca2+ ) signaling, and bioenergetics, and will be the main subject of this review.

Open questions on the functional biology of the yolk granules during embryo development

Biogenesis and consumption of the yolk are well-conserved aspects of the reproductive biology in oviparous species. Most egg-laying animals accumulate yolk proteins within the oocytes thus creating the source of nutrients and energy that will feed embryo development. Yolk accumulation drives the generation of a highly specialized oocyte cytoplasm with maternal mRNAs, ribosomes, mitochondria, and, mainly, a set of organelles collectively referred to as yolk granules (Ygs). Following fertilization, the Ygs are involved in regulated mechanisms of yolk degradation to fuel the anabolic metabolism of the growing embryo. Thus, yolk accumulation and degradation are essential processes that allow successful development in many species. Nevertheless, the molecular machinery and mechanisms dedicated to the programmed yolk mobilization throughout development are still enigmatic and remain mostly unexplored. Moreover, while the Ygs functional biology as a nutritional source for the embryo has been acknowledged, several reports have suggested that Ygs cargoes and functions go far beyond yolk storage. Evidence of the role of Ygs in gene expression, microbiota harboring, and paracrine signaling has been proposed. In this study, we summarize the current knowledge of the Ygs functional biology pointing to open questions and where further investigation is needed.

Calcium Affects Polyphosphate and Lipid Accumulation in Mucoromycota Fungi

Calcium controls important processes in fungal metabolism, such as hyphae growth, cell wall synthesis, and stress tolerance. Recently, it was reported that calcium affects polyphosphate and lipid accumulation in fungi. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of calcium on the accumulation of lipids and polyphosphate for six oleaginous Mucoromycota fungi grown under different phosphorus/pH conditions. A Duetz microtiter plate system (Duetz MTPS) was used for the cultivation. The compositional profile of the microbial biomass was recorded using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, the high throughput screening extension (FTIR-HTS). Lipid content and fatty acid profiles were determined using gas chromatography (GC). Cellular phosphorus was determined using assay-based UV-Vis spectroscopy, and accumulated phosphates were characterized using solid-state ³¹P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Glucose consumption was estimated by FTIR-attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR). Overall, the data indicated that calcium availability enhances polyphosphate accumulation in Mucoromycota fungi, while calcium deficiency increases lipid production, especially under acidic conditions (pH 2-3) caused by the phosphorus limitation. In addition, it was observed that under acidic conditions, calcium deficiency leads to increase in carotenoid production. It can be concluded that calcium availability can be used as an optimization parameter in fungal fermentation processes to enhance the production of lipids or polyphosphates.

Albumin-based nanoparticles as contrast medium for MRI: vascular imaging, tissue and cell interactions, and pharmacokinetics of second-generation nanoparticles

This multidisciplinary study examined the pharmacokinetics of nanoparticles based on albumin-DTPA-gadolinium chelates, testing the hypothesis that these nanoparticles create a stronger vessel signal than conventional gadolinium-based contrast agents and exploring if they are safe for clinical use. Nanoparticles based on human serum albumin, bearing gadolinium and designed for use in magnetic resonance imaging, were used to generate magnet resonance images (MRI) of the vascular system in rats ("blood pool imaging"). At the low nanoparticle doses used for radionuclide imaging, nanoparticle-associated metals were cleared from the blood into the liver during the first 4 h after nanoparticle application. At the higher doses required for MRI, the liver became saturated and kidney and spleen acted as additional sinks for the metals, and accounted for most processing of the nanoparticles. The multiple components of the nanoparticles were cleared independently of one another. Albumin was detected in liver, spleen, and kidneys for up to 2 days after intravenous injection. Gadolinium was retained in the liver, kidneys, and spleen in significant concentrations for much longer. Gadolinium was present as significant fractions of initial dose for longer than 2 weeks after application, and gadolinium clearance was only complete after 6 weeks. Our analysis could not account quantitatively for the full dose of gadolinium that was applied, but numerous organs were found to contain gadolinium in the collagen of their connective tissues. Multiple lines of evidence indicated intracellular processing opening the DTPA chelates and leading to gadolinium long-term storage, in particular inside lysosomes. Turnover of the stored gadolinium was found to occur in soluble form in the kidneys, the liver, and the colon for up to 3 weeks after application. Gadolinium overload poses a significant hazard due to the high toxicity of free gadolinium ions. We discuss the relevance of our findings to gadolinium-deposition diseases.

The interplay between Mn and Fe in Deinococcus radiodurans triggers cellular protection during paraquat-induced oxidative stress

The bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans is highly resistant to several stress conditions, such as radiation. According to several reports, manganese plays a crucial role in stress protection, and a high Mn/Fe ratio is essential in this process. However, mobilization of manganese and iron, and the role of DNA-binding-proteins-under-starved-conditions during oxidative-stress remained open questions. We used synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence imaging at nano-resolution to follow element-relocalization upon stress, and its dependency on the presence of Dps proteins, using dps knockout mutants. We show that manganese, calcium, and phosphorus are mobilized from rich-element regions that resemble electron-dense granules towards the cytosol and the cellular membrane, in a Dps-dependent way. Moreover, iron delocalizes from the septum region to the cytoplasm affecting cell division, specifically in the septum formation. These mechanisms are orchestrated by Dps1 and Dps2, which play a crucial role in metal homeostasis, and are associated with the D. radiodurans tolerance against reactive oxygen species.

Contributions of suboolemmal acidic vesicles and microvilli to the intracellular Ca2+ increase in the sea urchin eggs at fertilization

The onset of fertilization in echinoderms is characterized by instantaneous increase of Ca²⁺ in the egg cortex, which is called 'cortical flash', and the subsequent Ca²⁺ wave. While the cortical flash is due to the ion influx through L-type Ca²⁺ channels in starfish eggs, its amplitude was shown to be affected by the integrity of the egg cortex. Here, we investigated the contribution of cortical granules (CG) and yolk granules (YG) to the sperm-induced Ca²⁺ signals in sea urchin eggs. To this end, prior to fertilization, Paracentrotus lividus eggs were treated with agents that disrupt or relocate CG beneath the plasma membrane: namely, glycyl-L-phenylalanine 2-naphthylamide (GPN), procaine, urethane, and NH₄Cl. All these pretreatments consistently suppressed the cortical flash in the fertilized eggs, and accelerated the decay kinetics of the subsiding Ca²⁺ wave in most cases. By contrast, centrifugation of the eggs, which stratifies organelles but not the CG, did not exhibit such changes except that the CF was much enhanced in the centrifugal pole where YG are localized. Surprisingly, we noted that pretreatment of the eggs with these CG-disrupting agents or with the inhibitors of L-type Ca²⁺ channels all drastically reduced the density of the microvilli and their individual shapes on the egg surface. Taken together, our results suggest that the integrity of the egg cortex ensures successful generation of the Ca²⁺ responses at fertilization, and that modulation of microvilli shape and density may serve as a mechanism of controlling ion flux across the plasma membrane.

Inorganic polyphosphate interacts with nucleolar and glycosomal proteins in trypanosomatids

Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) is a polymer of three to hundreds of phosphate units bound by high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds and present from bacteria to humans. Most polyP in trypanosomatids is concentrated in acidocalcisomes, acidic calcium stores that possess a number of pumps, exchangers, and channels, and are important for their survival. In this work, using polyP as bait we identified > 25 putative protein targets in cell lysates of both Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma brucei. Gene ontology analysis of the binding partners found a significant over-representation of nucleolar and glycosomal proteins. Using the polyphosphate-binding domain (PPBD) of Escherichia coli exopolyphosphatase (PPX), we localized long-chain polyP to the nucleoli and glycosomes of trypanosomes. A competitive assay based on the pre-incubation of PPBD with exogenous polyP and subsequent immunofluorescence assay of procyclic forms (PCF) of T. brucei showed polyP concentration-dependent and chain length-dependent decrease in the fluorescence signal. Subcellular fractionation experiments confirmed the presence of polyP in glycosomes of T. brucei PCF. Targeting of yeast PPX to the glycosomes of PCF resulted in polyP hydrolysis, alteration in their glycolytic flux and increase in their susceptibility to oxidative stress.

Mitochondria and vesicles differ between adult and prepubertal sheep oocytes during IVM

Oocytes from prepubertal animals have a reduced ability to undergo normal embryo development and produce viable offspring. The correct quantity, activity and cytoplasmic distribution of oocyte organelles are essential for oocyte maturation, fertilisation and subsequent embryo development. The aim of this study was to quantify the ultrastructural differences between oocytes from prepubertal lamb and adult ewes using electron microscopy and stereology. We also determined whether quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods give comparable estimates of mitochondrial number to stereology. Mean storage vesicle volume was greater in adult compared with lamb oocytes before IVM and decreased during maturation in both adult and lamb oocytes. Mitochondrial volume and number increased in adult oocytes during maturation; however, no increase was observed in lamb oocytes. Mitochondrial DNA copy number measured by qPCR showed no differences between adult and lamb oocytes. A different distribution of mitochondria was observed in lamb oocytes before maturation, while the percentage of hooded mitochondria increased during maturation in adult oocytes and decreased in the lamb. In conclusion, the present study has identified differences in the vesicles and mitochondria between adult and lamb oocytes from ewes that may contribute to reduced developmental competence in prepubertal oocytes.

BAPTA-AM decreases cellular pH, inhibits acidocalcisome acidification and autophagy in amino acid-starved T. brucei

To investigate the role of Ca²⁺ signaling in starvation-induced autophagy in Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis, we used cell-permeant Ca²⁺ chelator BAPTA-AM and cell impermeant chelator EGTA, and examined the potential involvement of several intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling pathways in T. brucei autophagy. The results showed an unexpected effect of BAPTA-AM in decreasing cellular pH and inhibiting acidocalcisome acidification in starved cells. The implication of these results in the role of Ca²⁺ signaling and cellular/organellar pH in T. brucei autophagy is discussed.

Acidocalcisomes of eukaryotes

Acidocalcisomes are organelles rich in polyphosphate and cations and acidified by proton pumps. Although they have also been described in prokaryotes they have been better characterized in unicellular and multicellular eukaryotes. Eukaryotic acidocalcisomes belong to the group of lysosome-related organelles. They have a variety of functions, from the storage of cations and phosphorus to calcium signaling, autophagy, osmoregulation, blood coagulation, and inflammation. Acidocalcisomes of several unicellular eukaryotes possess a variety of transporters, channels and pumps implying a large energetic requirement for their maintenance and suggesting other important functions waiting to be discovered.

Proteomic analysis of the acidocalcisome, an organelle conserved from bacteria to human cells

Acidocalcisomes are acidic organelles present in a diverse range of organisms from bacteria to human cells. In this study acidocalcisomes were purified from the model organism Trypanosoma brucei, and their protein composition was determined by mass spectrometry. The results, along with those that we previously reported, show that acidocalcisomes are rich in pumps and transporters, involved in phosphate and cation homeostasis, and calcium signaling. We validated the acidocalcisome localization of seven new, putative, acidocalcisome proteins (phosphate transporter, vacuolar H+-ATPase subunits a and d, vacuolar iron transporter, zinc transporter, polyamine transporter, and acid phosphatase), confirmed the presence of six previously characterized acidocalcisome proteins, and validated the localization of five novel proteins to different subcellular compartments by expressing them fused to epitope tags in their endogenous loci or by immunofluorescence microscopy with specific antibodies. Knockdown of several newly identified acidocalcisome proteins by RNA interference (RNAi) revealed that they are essential for the survival of the parasites. These results provide a comprehensive insight into the unique composition of acidocalcisomes of T. brucei, an important eukaryotic pathogen, and direct evidence that acidocalcisomes are especially adapted for the accumulation of polyphosphate.

Two-pore channels function in calcium regulation in sea star oocytes and embryos

Egg activation at fertilization is an excellent process for studying calcium regulation. Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide-phosphate (NAADP), a potent calcium messenger, is able to trigger calcium release, likely through two-pore channels (TPCs). Concomitantly, a family of ectocellular enzymes, the ADP-ribosyl cyclases (ARCs), has emerged as being able to change their enzymatic mode from one of nucleotide cyclization in formation of cADPR to a base-exchange reaction in the generation of NAADP. Using sea star oocytes we gain insights into the functions of endogenously expressed TPCs and ARCs in the context of the global calcium signals at fertilization. Three TPCs and one ARC were found in the sea star (Patiria miniata) that were localized in the cortex of the oocytes and eggs. PmTPCs were localized in specialized secretory organelles called cortical granules, and PmARCs accumulated in a different, unknown, set of vesicles, closely apposed to the cortical granules in the egg cortex. Using morpholino knockdown of PmTPCs and PmARC in the oocytes, we found that both calcium regulators are essential for early embryo development, and that knockdown of PmTPCs leads to aberrant construction of the fertilization envelope at fertilization and changes in cortical granule pH. The calcium signals at fertilization are not significantly altered when individual PmTPCs are silenced, but the timing and shape of the cortical flash and calcium wave are slightly changed when the expression of all three PmTPCs is perturbed concomitantly, suggesting a cooperative activity among TPC isoforms in eliciting calcium signals that may influence localized physiological activities.

New insights into the in situ microscopic visualization and quantification of inorganic polyphosphate stores by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)-staining

Inorganic polyphosphate (PolyP) is a biological polymer that plays important roles in the cell physiology of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Among the available methods for PolyP localization and quantification, a 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole(DAPI)-based assay has been used for visualization of PolyP-rich organelles. Due to differences in DAPI permeability to different compartments and/or PolyP retention after fixation, a general protocol for DAPI-PolyP staining has not yet been established. Here, we tested different protocols for DAPI-PolyP detection in a range of samples with different levels of DAPI permeability, including subcellular fractions, free-living cells and cryosections of fixed tissues. Subcellular fractions of PolyP-rich organelles yielded DAPI-PolyP fluorescence, although those with a complex external layer usually required longer incubation times, previous aldehyde fixation and/or detergent permeabilization. DAPI-PolyP was also detected in cryosections of OCT-embedded tissues analyzed by multi-photon microscopy. In addition, a semi-quantitative fluorimetric analysis of DAPI-stained fractions showed PolyP mobilization in a similar fashion to what has been demonstrated with the use of enzyme-based quantitative protocols. Taken together, our results support the use of DAPI for both PolyP visualization and quantification, although specific steps are suggested as a general guideline for DAPI-PolyP staining in biological samples with different degrees of DAPI and PolyP permeability.

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

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

Bidirectional Ca²⁺ signaling occurs between the endoplasmic reticulum and acidic organelles

After acidic organelles induce signaling to activate ER calcium ion release, local microdomains of high calcium at ER–acidic organelle junctions feed back to activate further acidic organelle calcium release.

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and acidic organelles (endo-lysosomes) act as separate Ca²⁺ stores that release Ca²⁺ in response to the second messengers IP₃ and cADPR (ER) or NAADP (acidic organelles). Typically, trigger Ca²⁺ released from acidic organelles by NAADP subsequently recruits IP₃ or ryanodine receptors on the ER, an anterograde signal important for amplification and Ca²⁺ oscillations/waves. We therefore investigated whether the ER can signal back to acidic organelles, using organelle pH as a reporter of NAADP action. We show that Ca²⁺ released from the ER can activate the NAADP pathway in two ways: first, by stimulating Ca²⁺-dependent NAADP synthesis; second, by activating NAADP-regulated channels. Moreover, the differential effects of EGTA and BAPTA (slow and fast Ca²⁺ chelators, respectively) suggest that the acidic organelles are preferentially activated by local microdomains of high Ca²⁺ at junctions between the ER and acidic organelles. Bidirectional organelle communication may have wider implications for endo-lysosomal function as well as the generation of Ca²⁺ oscillations and waves.

Ultrastructural and functional analysis of secretory goblet cells in the midgut of the lepidopteran Anticarsia gemmatalis

Defoliation caused by Anticarsia gemmatalis larvae affects the commercial production of the soybean. Although regulation of the digestion of soybean components has become part of the suggested strategy to overcome problems caused by Anticarsia larvae, few studies have focused on the morphological and cellular aspects of Anticarsia intestinal tissue. We have therefore further analyzed the morphology and ultrastructure of the midgut of 5th instar larvae of A. gemmatalis. Dissected midgut was subjected to chemical or cryo-fixation and then to several descriptive and analytical techniques associated with both light and electron microscopy in order to correlate anatomical and physiological aspects of this organ. Histological analysis revealed typical anatomy composed of a cell layer limited by a peritrophic membrane. The identified lepidoptera-specific goblet cells were shown to contain several mitochondria inside microvilli of the goblet cell cavity and a vacuolar H(+)-ATPase possibly coupled to a K(+)-pumping system. Columnar cells were present and exhibited microvilli dispersed along the apical region that also presented secretory characteristics. We additionally found evidence for the secretion of polyphosphate (PolyP) into the midgut, a result corroborating previous reports suggesting an excretion route from the goblet cell cavity toward the luminal space. Thus, our results suggest that the Anticarsia midgut not only possesses several typical lepidopteran features but also presents some unique aspects such as the presence of a tubular network and PolyP-containing apocrine secretions, plus an apparent route for the release of cellular debris by the goblet cells.

Identification and characterization of PlAlix, the Alix homologue from the Mediterranean sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus

The sea urchin provides a relatively simple and tractable system for analyzing the early stages of embryo development. Here, we use the sea urchin species, Paracentrotus lividus, to investigate the role of Alix in key stages of embryogenesis, namely the egg fertilization and the first cleavage division. Alix is a multifunctional protein involved in different cellular processes including endocytic membrane trafficking, filamentous (F)-actin remodeling, and cytokinesis. Alix homologues have been identified in different metazoans; in these organisms, Alix is involved in oogenesis and in determination/differentiation events during embryo development. Herein, we describe the identification of the sea urchin homologue of Alix, PlAlix. The deduced amino acid sequence shows that Alix is highly conserved in sea urchins. Accordingly, we detect the PlAlix protein cross-reacting with monoclonal Alix antibodies in extracts from P. lividus, at different developmental stages. Focusing on the role of PlAlix during early embryogenesis we found that PlAlix is a maternal protein that is expressed at increasingly higher levels from fertilization to the 2-cell stage embryo. In sea urchin eggs, PlAlix localizes throughout the cytoplasm with a punctuated pattern and, soon after fertilization, accumulates in larger puncta in the cytosol, and in microvilli-like protrusions. Together our data show that PlAlix is structurally conserved from sea urchin to mammals and may open new lines of inquiry into the role of Alix during the early stages of embryo development.

New insights into roles of acidocalcisomes and contractile vacuole complex in osmoregulation in protists

While free-living protists are usually subjected to hyposmotic environments, parasitic protists are also in contact with hyperosmotic habitats. Recent work in one of these parasites, Trypanosoma cruzi, has revealed that its contractile vacuole complex, which usually collects and expels excess water as a mechanism of regulatory volume decrease after hyposmotic stress, has also a role in cell shrinking when the cells are submitted to hyperosmotic stress. Trypanosomes also have an acidic calcium store rich in polyphosphate (polyP), named the acidocalcisome, which is involved in their response to osmotic stress. Here, we review newly emerging insights on the role of acidocalcisomes and the contractile vacuole complex in the cellular response to hyposmotic and hyperosmotic stresses. We also review the current state of knowledge on the composition of these organelles and their other roles in calcium homeostasis and protein trafficking.

Calcium pathway machinery at fertilization in echinoderms

Calcium signaling in cells directs diverse physiological processes. The calcium waves triggered by fertilization is a highly conserved calcium signaling event essential for egg activation, and has been documented in every egg tested. This activity is one of the few highly conserved events of egg activation through the course of evolution. Echinoderm eggs, as well as many other cell types, have three main intracellular Ca(2+) mobilizing messengers - IP3, cADPR and NAADP. Both cADPR and NAADP were identified as Ca(2+) mobilizing messengers using the sea urchin egg homogenate, and this experimental system, along with the intact urchin and starfish oocyte/egg, continues to be a vital tool for investigating the mechanism of action of calcium signals. While many of the major regulatory steps of the IP3 pathway are well resolved, both cADPR and NAADP remain understudied in terms of our understanding of the fundamental process of egg activation at fertilization. Recently, NAADP has been shown to trigger Ca(2+) release from acidic vesicles, separately from the ER, and a new class of calcium channels, the two-pore channels (TPCs), was identified as the likely targets for this messenger. Moreover, it was found that both cADPR and NAADP can be synthesized by the same family of enzymes, the ADP-rybosyl cyclases (ARCs). In this context of increasing amount of information, the potential coupling and functional roles of different messengers, intracellular stores and channels in the formation of the fertilization calcium wave in echinoderms will be critically evaluated.

Polyphosphate is a novel pro-inflammatory regulator of mast cells and is located in acidocalcisomes

Polyphosphate (polyP) is a pro-inflammatory agent and a potent modulator of the human blood-clotting system. The presence of polyP of 60 phosphate units was identified in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) mast cells using specific enzymatic assays, urea-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cell extracts, and staining of cells with 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), and the polyP-binding domain of Escherichia coli exopolyphosphatase. PolyP co-localizes with serotonin- but not with histamine-containing granules. PolyP levels greatly decreased in mast cells stimulated to degranulate by IgE. Mast cell granules were isolated and found to be acidic and decrease their polyP content upon alkalinization. In agreement with these results, when RBL-2H3 mast cells were loaded with the fluorescent calcium indicator fura-2 acetoxymethyl ester to measure their intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), they were shown to possess a significant amount of Ca(2+) stored in an acidic compartment different from lysosomes. PolyP derived from RBL-2H3 mast cells stimulated bradykinin formation, and it was also detected in human basophils. All of these characteristics of mast cell granules, together with their known elemental composition, and high density, are similar to those of acidocalcisomes. The results suggest that mast cells polyP could be an important mediator of their pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant activities.

Polyphosphate: an ancient molecule that links platelets, coagulation, and inflammation

Inorganic polyphosphate is widespread in biology and exhibits striking prohemostatic, prothrombotic, and proinflammatory effects in vivo. Long-chain polyphosphate (of the size present in infectious microorganisms) is a potent, natural pathophysiologic activator of the contact pathway of blood clotting. Medium-chain polyphosphate (of the size secreted from activated human platelets) accelerates factor V activation, completely abrogates the anticoagulant function of tissue factor pathway inhibitor, enhances fibrin clot structure, and greatly accelerates factor XI activation by thrombin. Polyphosphate may have utility as a hemostatic agent, whereas antagonists of polyphosphate may function as novel antithrombotic/anti-inflammatory agents. The detailed molecular mechanisms by which polyphosphate modulates blood clotting reactions remain to be elucidated.

Effects of ionomycin on egg activation and early development in starfish

Ionomycin is a Ca²⁺-selective ionophore that is widely used to increase intracellular Ca²⁺ levels in cell biology laboratories. It is also occasionally used to activate eggs in the clinics practicing in vitro fertilization. However, neither the precise molecular action of ionomycin nor its secondary effects on the eggs' structure and function is well known. In this communication we have studied the effects of ionomycin on starfish oocytes and zygotes. By use of confocal microscopy, calcium imaging, as well as light and transmission electron microscopy, we have demonstrated that immature oocytes exposed to ionomycin instantly increase intracellular Ca²⁺ levels and undergo structural changes in the cortex. Surprisingly, when microinjected into the cells, ionomycin produced no Ca²⁺ increase. The ionomycin-induced Ca²⁺ rise was followed by fast alteration of the actin cytoskeleton displaying conspicuous depolymerization at the oocyte surface and in microvilli with concomitant polymerization in the cytoplasm. In addition, cortical granules were disrupted or fused with white vesicles few minutes after the addition of ionomycin. These structural changes prevented cortical maturation of the eggs despite the normal progression of nuclear envelope breakdown. At fertilization, the ionomycin-pretreated eggs displayed reduced Ca²⁺ response, no elevation of the fertilization envelope, and the lack of orderly centripetal translocation of actin fibers. These alterations led to difficulties in cell cleavage in the monospermic zygotes and eventually to a higher rate of abnormal development. In conclusion, ionomycin has various deleterious impacts on egg activation and the subsequent embryonic development in starfish. Although direct comparison is difficult to make between our findings and the use of the ionophore in the in vitro fertilization clinics, our results call for more defining investigations on the issue of a potential risk in artificial egg activation.

Calcium signaling in closely related protozoan groups (Alveolata): non-parasitic ciliates (Paramecium, Tetrahymena) vs. parasitic Apicomplexa (Plasmodium, Toxoplasma)

The importance of Ca2+-signaling for many subcellular processes is well established in higher eukaryotes, whereas information about protozoa is restricted. Recent genome analyses have stimulated such work also with Alveolates, such as ciliates (Paramecium, Tetrahymena) and their pathogenic close relatives, the Apicomplexa (Plasmodium, Toxoplasma). Here we compare Ca2+ signaling in the two closely related groups. Acidic Ca2+ stores have been characterized in detail in Apicomplexa, but hardly in ciliates. Two-pore channels engaged in Ca2+-release from acidic stores in higher eukaryotes have not been stingently characterized in either group. Both groups are endowed with plasma membrane- and endoplasmic reticulum-type Ca2+-ATPases (PMCA, SERCA), respectively. Only recently was it possible to identify in Paramecium a number of homologs of ryanodine and inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate receptors (RyR, IP3R) and to localize them to widely different organelles participating in vesicle trafficking. For Apicomplexa, physiological experiments suggest the presence of related channels although their identity remains elusive. In Paramecium, IP3Rs are constitutively active in the contractile vacuole complex; RyR-related channels in alveolar sacs are activated during exocytosis stimulation, whereas in the parasites the homologous structure (inner membrane complex) may no longer function as a Ca2+ store. Scrutinized comparison of the two closely related protozoan phyla may stimulate further work and elucidate adaptation to parasitic life. See also "Conclusions" section.

Inorganic polyphosphates are stored in spherites within the midgut of Anticarsia gemmatalis and play a role in copper detoxification

Inorganic polyphosphates (PolyP) are widespread molecules that have been shown to play a role in metal detoxification and heavy-metal tolerance. In the present report, we investigated the functional role of spherites as PolyP-metal binding stores in epithelial cells of the midgut of Anticarsia gemmatalis, a lepidopteran pest of soybean. PolyP stores were detected by DAPI staining and indirect immunohistochemistry as vesicles distributed in columnar cells and around goblet cell cavities. These PolyP vesicles were identified as spherites by their elemental profile in cell lysates that were partially modulated by P- or V-ATPases. PolyP levels along the midgut were detected using a recombinant exopolyphosphatase assay. When copper was added in the diet of larva, copper detection in spherites by X-ray microanalysis correlated with an increase in the relative phosphorous X-ray signal and with an increase in PolyP levels in epithelia cell lysate. Transmission electron microscopy of chemically fixed or cryofixed and freeze substituted tissues confirmed a preferential localization of spherites around the goblet cell cavity. Taken together, these results suggest that spherites store high levels of PolyP that are modulated during metal uptake and detoxification. The similarity between PolyP granules and spherites herein described also suggest that PolyP is one of the main phosphorous source of spherites found in different biological models. This suggests physiological roles played by spherites in the midgut of arthropods and mechanisms involved in heavy metal resistance among different insect genera.

Molecular mechanisms of endolysosomal Ca2+ signalling in health and disease

Endosomes, lysosomes and lysosome-related organelles are emerging as important Ca2+ storage cellular compartments with a central role in intracellular Ca2+ signalling. Endocytosis at the plasma membrane forms endosomal vesicles which mature to late endosomes and culminate in lysosomal biogenesis. During this process, acquisition of different ion channels and transporters progressively changes the endolysosomal luminal ionic environment (e.g. pH and Ca2+) to regulate enzyme activities, membrane fusion/fission and organellar ion fluxes, and defects in these can result in disease. In the present review we focus on the physiology of the inter-related transport mechanisms of Ca2+ and H+ across endolysosomal membranes. In particular, we discuss the role of the Ca2+-mobilizing messenger NAADP (nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate) as a major regulator of Ca2+ release from endolysosomes, and the recent discovery of an endolysosomal channel family, the TPCs (two-pore channels), as its principal intracellular targets. Recent molecular studies of endolysosomal Ca2+ physiology and its regulation by NAADP-gated TPCs are providing exciting new insights into the mechanisms of Ca2+-signal initiation that control a wide range of cellular processes and play a role in disease. These developments underscore a new central role for the endolysosomal system in cellular Ca2+ regulation and signalling.

Acidocalcisomes as calcium- and polyphosphate-storage compartments during embryogenesis of the insect Rhodnius prolixus Stahl

BACKGROUND

The yolk of insect eggs is a cellular domain specialized in the storage of reserve components for embryo development. The reserve macromolecules are stored in different organelles and their interactions with the embryo cells are mostly unknown. Acidocalcisomes are lysosome-related organelles characterized by their acidic nature, high electron density and large content of polyphosphate bound to several cations. In this work, we report the presence of acidocalcisome-like organelles in eggs of the insect vector Rhodnius prolixus.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Characterization of the elemental composition of electron-dense vesicles by electron probe X-ray microanalysis revealed a composition similar to that previously described for acidocalcisomes. Following subcellular fractionation experiments, fractions enriched in acidocalcisomes were obtained and characterized. Immunofluorescence showed that polyphosphate polymers and the vacuolar proton translocating pyrophosphatase (V-H(+)-PPase, considered as a marker for acidocalcisomes) are found in the same vesicles and that these organelles are mainly localized in the egg cortex. Polyphosphate quantification showed that acidocalcisomes contain a significant amount of polyphosphate detected at day-0 eggs. Elemental analyses of the egg fractions showed that 24.5±0.65% of the egg calcium are also stored in such organelles. During embryogenesis, incubation of acidocalcisomes with acridine orange showed that these organelles are acidified at day-3 (coinciding with the period of yolk mobilization) and polyphosphate quantification showed that the levels of polyphosphate tend to decrease during early embryogenesis, being approximately 30% lower at day-3 compared to day-0 eggs.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that acidocalcisomes are present in the eggs and are the main storage compartments of polyphosphate and calcium in the egg yolk. As such components have been shown to be involved in a series of dynamic events that may control embryo growth, results reveal the potential involvement of a novel organelle in the storage and mobilization of inorganic elements to the embryo cells.

Identification of intracellular and plasma membrane calcium channel homologues in pathogenic parasites

Ca²⁺ channels regulate many crucial processes within cells and their abnormal activity can be damaging to cell survival, suggesting that they might represent attractive therapeutic targets in pathogenic organisms. Parasitic diseases such as malaria, leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis and schistosomiasis are responsible for millions of deaths each year worldwide. The genomes of many pathogenic parasites have recently been sequenced, opening the way for rational design of targeted therapies. We analyzed genomes of pathogenic protozoan parasites as well as the genome of Schistosoma mansoni, and show the existence within them of genes encoding homologues of mammalian intracellular Ca²⁺ release channels: inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP₃Rs), ryanodine receptors (RyRs), two-pore Ca²⁺ channels (TPCs) and intracellular transient receptor potential (Trp) channels. The genomes of Trypanosoma, Leishmania and S. mansoni parasites encode IP₃R/RyR and Trp channel homologues, and that of S. mansoni additionally encodes a TPC homologue. In contrast, apicomplexan parasites lack genes encoding IP₃R/RyR homologues and possess only genes encoding TPC and Trp channel homologues (Toxoplasma gondii) or Trp channel homologues alone. The genomes of parasites also encode homologues of mammalian Ca²⁺influx channels, including voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels and plasma membrane Trp channels. The genome of S. mansoni also encodes Orai Ca²⁺ channel and STIM Ca²⁺ sensor homologues, suggesting that store-operated Ca²⁺ entry may occur in this parasite. Many anti-parasitic agents alter parasite Ca²⁺ homeostasis and some are known modulators of mammalian Ca²⁺ channels, suggesting that parasite Ca²⁺ channel homologues might be the targets of some current anti-parasitic drugs. Differences between human and parasite Ca²⁺ channels suggest that pathogen-specific targeting of these channels may be an attractive therapeutic prospect.

Acidocalcisomes

Acidocalcisomes are acidic organelles containing calcium and a high concentration of phosphorus in the form of pyrophosphate (PP(i)) and polyphosphate (poly P). Organelles with these characteristics have been found from bacteria to human cells implying an early appearance and persistence over evolutionary time or their appearance by convergent evolution. Acidification of the organelles is driven by the presence of vacuolar proton pumps, one of which, the vacuolar proton pyrophosphatase, is absent in animals, where it is substituted by a vacuolar proton ATPase. A number of other pumps, antiporters, and channels have been described in acidocalcisomes of different species and are responsible for their internal content. Enzymes involved in the synthesis and degradation of PP(i) and poly P are present within the organelle. Acidocalcisomes function as storage sites for cations and phosphorus, and participate in PP(i) and poly P metabolism, calcium homeostasis, maintenance of intracellular pH, and osmoregulation. Experiments in which the acidocalcisome Ca(2+)-ATPase of different parasites were downregulated or eliminated, or acidocalcisome Ca(2+) was depleted revealed the importance of this store in Ca(2+) signaling needed for host invasion and virulence. Acidocalcisomes interact with other organelles in a number of organisms suggesting their association with the endosomal/lysosomal pathway, and are considered part of the lysosome-related group of organelles.

Sea urchin eggs in the acid reign

Sea urchin eggs have been an indispensable model system for studying egg activation and ionic signalling for at least a century. Instrumental in the discovery of two Ca(2+)-mobilizing second messengers, cyclic ADP-ribose and NAADP, the sea urchin has revolutionized cell biology for all phyla. This review attempts to summarize what we currently know about egg acidic vesicles in the context of Ca(2+) signalling. The dynamics of Ca(2+) storage, Ca(2+) mobilization, proton fluxes and two-pore channels will be discussed.

NAADP as an intracellular messenger regulating lysosomal calcium-release channels

Recent studies into the mechanisms of action of the Ca(2+)-mobilizing messenger NAADP (nicotinic acid-adenine dinucleotide phosphate) have demonstrated that a novel family of intracellular Ca(2+)-release channels termed TPCs (two-pore channels) are components of the NAADP receptor. TPCs appear to be exclusively localized to the endolysosomal system. These findings confirm previous pharmacological and biochemical studies suggesting that NAADP targets acidic Ca(2+) stores rather than the endoplasmic reticulum, the major site of action of the other two principal Ca(2+)-mobilizing messengers, InsP(3) and cADPR (cADP-ribose). Studies of the messenger roles of NAADP and the function of TPCs highlight the novel role of lysosomes and other organelles of the endocytic pathway as messenger-regulated Ca(2+) stores which also affects the regulation of the endolysosomal system.