Induction of epithelial chloride secretion by channel-forming cryptdins 2 and 3

Efficient recombinant production of mouse-derived cryptdin family peptides by a novel facilitation strategy for inclusion body formation

BACKGROUND

A number of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) hold promise as new drugs owing to their potent bactericidal activity and because they are often refractory to the development of drug resistance. Cryptdins (Crps) are a family of antimicrobial peptides found in the small intestine of mice, comprising six isoforms containing three sets of disulfide bonds. Although Crp4 is actively being investigated, there have been few studies to date on the other Crp isoforms. A prerequisite for detailed characterization of the other Crp isoforms is establishment of efficient sample preparation methods.

RESULTS

To avoid degradation during recombinant expression of Crps in E. coli, co-expression of Crps with the aggregation-prone protein human α-lactalbumin (HLA) was used to promote the formation of stable inclusion bodies. Using this method, the production of Crp4 and Crp6 by the BL21 strain was effective, but the expression of other Crp isoforms was not as efficient. The results of a cell-free system study suggested that Crps were degraded, even though a substantial amounts of Crps were synthesized. Therefore, using the Origami™ B strain, we were able to significantly increase the expression efficiency of Crps by promoting the formation of erroneous intermolecular disulfide bonds between HLA and Crps, thereby promoting protein aggregation and inclusion body formation, which prevented degradation. The various Crp isoforms were successfully refolded in vitro and purified using reversed-phase HPLC. In addition, the yield was further improved by deformylation of formyl-Crps. We measured the antibacterial activity of Crps against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Each Crp isoform exhibited a completely different trend in antimicrobial activity, although conformational analysis by circular dichroism did not reveal any significant steric differences.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we established a novel and efficient method for the production of the cryptdin family of cysteine-containing antimicrobial peptides. Additionally, we found that there were notable differences in the antibacterial activities of the various Crp family members. The expression system established in this study is expected to provide new insights regarding the mechanisms underlying the different antibacterial activities of the Crp family of peptides.

Neonatal microbiota-epithelial interactions that impact infection

Despite modern therapeutic developments and prophylactic use of antibiotics during birth or in the first few months of life, enteric infections continue to be a major cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity globally. The neonatal period is characterized by initial intestinal colonization with microbiota and concurrent immune system development. It is also a sensitive window during which perturbations to the environment or host can significantly impact colonization by commensal microbes. Extensive research has demonstrated that these early life alterations to the microbiota can lead to enhanced susceptibility to enteric infections and increased systemic dissemination in newborns. Various contributing factors continue to pose challenges in prevention and control of neonatal enteric infections. These include alterations in the gut microbiota composition, impaired immune response, and effects of maternal factors. In addition, there remains limited understanding for how commensal microbes impact host-pathogen interactions in newborns. In this review, we discuss the recent recognition of initial microbiota-epithelial interactions that occur in neonates and can regulate susceptibility to intestinal infection. These studies suggest the development of neonatal prophylactic or therapeutic regimens that include boosting epithelial defense through microbiota-directed interventions.

Expression and Localization of Paneth Cells and Their α-Defensins in the Small Intestine of Adult Mouse

Paneth cells contribute to intestinal innate immunity by sensing bacteria and secreting α-defensin. In Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice, α-defensin termed cryptdin (Crp) in Paneth cells consists of six major isoforms, Crp1 to 6. Despite accumulating evidences that α-defensin functions in controlling the intestinal microbiota, topographical localization of Paneth cells in the small intestine in relation to functions of α-defensin remains to be determined. In this study, we examined the expression level of messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding six Crp-isoforms and Crp immunoreactivities using singly isolated crypts together with bactericidal activities of Paneth cell secretions from isolated crypts of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Here we showed that levels of Crp mRNAs in the single crypt ranged from 5 x 10³ to 1 x 10⁶ copies per 5 ng RNA. For each Crp isoform, the expression level in ileum was 4 to 50 times higher than that in duodenum and jejunum. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis of isolated crypts revealed that the average number of Paneth cell per crypt in the small intestine increased from proximal to distal, three to seven-fold, respectively. Both Crp1 and 4 expressed greater in ileal Paneth cells than those in duodenum or jejunum. Bactericidal activities in secretions of ileal Paneth cell exposed to bacteria were significantly higher than those of duodenum or jejunum. In germ-free mice, Crp expression in each site of the small intestine was attenuated and bactericidal activities released by ileal Paneth cells were decreased compared to those in conventional mice. Taken together, Paneth cells and their α-defensin in adult mouse appeared to be regulated topographically in innate immunity to control intestinal integrity.

Recombinant expression, purification and PEGylation of Paneth cell peptide (cryptdin-2) with value added attributes against Staphylococcus aureus

Cryptdins are disulfide-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides secreted by mouse Paneth cells and are known to exhibit potent antimicrobial activity against various deadly pathogens. Keeping in view the extremely low yield obtained from mouse Paneth cells and high cost of synthetic peptide(s), herein, we have attempted to produce cryptdin-2 in Escherichia coli using recombinant technology. To avoid lethal effects of peptide on the host cells, cryptdin-2 was expressed as a fusion protein with thioredoxin as fusion partner which yielded 40 mg/L protein in the soluble fraction. Subsequently, mature cryptdin-2 was cleaved from the fusion partner and purified by cation exchange chromatography. Since conjugation of poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) has been known to improve the biological properties of biomolecules, therefore, we further attempted to prepare PEG-conjugated variant of cryptdin-2 using thiol specific PEGylation. Though the antimicrobial activity of PEGylated cryptdin-2 was compromised to some extent, but it was found to have enhanced serum stability for longer duration as compared to its un-modified forms. Also, it was found to exhibit reduced toxicity to the host cells. Further, its synergism with gentamicin suggests that PEGylated cryptdin-2 can be used with conventional antibiotics, thereby indicating its possibility to be used as an adjunct therapy.

Fundamental trade-offs between information flow in single cells and cellular populations

Signal transduction networks allow eukaryotic cells to make decisions based on information about intracellular state and the environment. Biochemical noise significantly diminishes the fidelity of signaling: networks examined to date seem to transmit less than 1 bit of information. It is unclear how networks that control critical cell-fate decisions (e.g., cell division and apoptosis) can function with such low levels of information transfer. Here, we use theory, experiments, and numerical analysis to demonstrate an inherent trade-off between the information transferred in individual cells and the information available to control population-level responses. Noise in receptor-mediated apoptosis reduces information transfer to approximately 1 bit at the single-cell level but allows 3-4 bits of information to be transmitted at the population level. For processes such as eukaryotic chemotaxis, in which single cells are the functional unit, we find high levels of information transmission at a single-cell level. Thus, low levels of information transfer are unlikely to represent a physical limit. Instead, we propose that signaling networks exploit noise at the single-cell level to increase population-level information transfer, allowing extracellular ligands, whose levels are also subject to noise, to incrementally regulate phenotypic changes. This is particularly critical for discrete changes in fate (e.g., life vs. death) for which the key variable is the fraction of cells engaged. Our findings provide a framework for rationalizing the high levels of noise in metazoan signaling networks and have implications for the development of drugs that target these networks in the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

The intestinal barrier function and its involvement in digestive disease

The gastrointestinal mucosal surface is lined with epithelial cells representing an effective barrier made up with intercellular junctions that separate the inner and the outer environments, and block the passage of potentially harmful substances. However, epithelial cells are also responsible for the absorption of nutrients and electrolytes, hence a semipermeable barrier is required that selectively allows a number of substances in while keeping others out. To this end, the intestine developed the "intestinal barrier function", a defensive system involving various elements, both intra- and extracellular, that work in a coordinated way to impede the passage of antigens, toxins, and microbial byproducts, and simultaneously preserves the correct development of the epithelial barrier, the immune system, and the acquisition of tolerance against dietary antigens and the intestinal microbiota. Disturbances in the mechanisms of the barrier function favor the development of exaggerated immune responses; while exact implications remain unknown, changes in intestinal barrier function have been associated with the development of inflammatory conditions in the gastrointestinal tract. This review details de various elements of the intestinal barrier function, and the key molecular and cellular changes described for gastrointestinal diseases associated with dysfunction in this defensive mechanism.

Oxygen in the regulation of intestinal epithelial transport

The transport of fluid, nutrients and electrolytes to and from the intestinal lumen is a primary function of epithelial cells. Normally, the intestine absorbs approximately 9 l of fluid and 1 kg of nutrients daily, driven by epithelial transport processes that consume large amounts of cellular energy and O2. The epithelium exists at the interface of the richly vascularised mucosa, and the anoxic luminal environment and this steep O2 gradient play a key role in determining the expression pattern of proteins involved in fluid, nutrient and electrolyte transport. However, the dynamic nature of the splanchnic circulation necessitates that the epithelium can evoke co-ordinated responses to fluctuations in O2 availability, which occur either as a part of the normal digestive process or as a consequence of several pathophysiological conditions. While it is known that hypoxia-responsive signals, such as reactive oxygen species, AMP-activated kinase, hypoxia-inducible factors, and prolyl hydroxylases are all important in regulating epithelial responses to altered O2 supply, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved is still limited. Here, we aim to review the current literature regarding the role that O2 plays in regulating intestinal transport processes and to highlight areas of research that still need to be addressed.

Efficacy of cryptdin-2 as an adjunct to antibiotics from various generations against salmonella

Emerging drug resistance in Salmonella coupled with the recent poor success rate of antibiotic discovery programs of the pharmaceutical industry is a cause for significant concern. It has forced the scientific community to look for alternative new classes of antimicrobial compounds. In this context, combinations of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and conventional antibiotics have gained interest owing to their versatile applications. The present study was therefore planned to evaluate the synergistic effects, if any, of cryptdin-2, a mouse Paneth cell alpha-defensin, in combination with four different antibiotics i.e. ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime and chloramphenicol, which are conventionally used against Salmonella. Minimum bactericidal concentrations of the selected antimicrobial agents were determined by micro and macro broth dilution assays. In-vitro synergy between the agents was evaluated by fractional bactericidal concentration index (checkerboard test) and time-kill assay. Cryptdin-2-ciprofloxacin, cryptdin-2-ceftriaxone and cryptdin-2-cefotaxime combinations were found synergistic as evident by in vitro assays. This synergism provides an additional therapeutic choice by allowing the use of conventional antibiotics in conjunction with AMPs against MDR Salmonella.

Antimicrobial peptides: clinical relevance and therapeutic implications

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are molecules that provide protection against environmental pathogens, acting against a large number of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, yeast, virus and others. Two major groups of antimicrobial peptides are found in humans: cathelicidins and defensins. Recently, several studies have furnished information that besides their role in infection diseases, antimicrobial peptides play a role in diseases as diverse as inflammatory disorders, autoimmunity and cancer. Here, we discuss the role of antimicrobial peptides and vitamin D have in such complex diseases and propose their use should be more explored in the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.

Enteric alpha defensins in norm and pathology

Microbes living in the mammalian gut exist in constant contact with immunity system that prevents infection and maintains homeostasis. Enteric alpha defensins play an important role in regulation of bacterial colonization of the gut, as well as in activation of pro- and anti-inflammatory responses of the adaptive immune system cells in lamina propria. This review summarizes currently available data on functions of mammalian enteric alpha defensins in the immune defense and changes in their secretion in intestinal inflammatory diseases and cancer.

Evaluation of amoebicidal potential of Paneth cell cryptdin-2 against Entamoeba histolytica

BACKGROUND

Amoebiasis is a major public health problem in tropical and subtropical countries. Currently, metronidazole is the gold choice medication for the treatment of this disease. However, reports have indicated towards the possibility of development of metronidazole-resistance in Entamoeba strains in near future. In view of the emergence of this possibility, in addition to the associated side effects and mutagenic ability of the currently available anti-amoebic drugs, there is a need to explore newer therapeutics against this disease. In this context, the present study evaluated the amoebicidal potential of cryptdin-2 against E. histolytica.

METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

In the present study, cryptdin-2 exhibited potent in-vitro amoebicidal activity against E. histolytica in a concentration dependent manner at a minimum amoebicidal concentration (MAC) of 4 mg/L. Scanning electron microscopy as well as phase contrast microscopic investigations of cryptdin-2 treated trophozoites revealed that the peptide was able to induce significant morphological alterations in terms of membrane wrinkling, leakage of the cytoplasmic contents and damaged plasma membrane suggesting a possible membrane dependent amoebicidal activity. N-phenyl napthylamine (NPN) uptake assay in presence of sulethal, lethal as well as twice the lethal concentrations further confirmed the membrane-dependent mode of action of cryptdin-2 and suggested that the peptide could permeabilize the plasma membrane of E. histolytica. It was also found that cryptdin-2 interfered with DNA, RNA as well as protein synthesis of E. histolytica exerting the highest effect against DNA synthesis. Thus, the macromolecular synthesis studies correlated well with the observations of membrane permeabilization studies.

SIGNIFICANCE/CONCLUSIONS

The amoebicidal efficacy of cryptdin-2 suggests that it may be exploited as a promising option to combat amoebiasis or, at least, may act as an adjunct to metronidazole and/or other available anti-amoebic drugs.

In vitro and in vivo synergistic effects of cryptdin 2 and ampicillin against Salmonella

In view of the emergence of multidrug-resistant Salmonella strains, there is a need for therapeutic alternatives. To reduce the dose of antibiotic required in order to decrease the associated side effects, the present study was aimed at evaluating the synergism between cryptdin 2 (a Paneth cell antimicrobial peptide) and ampicillin (Amp) against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. The synergy was evaluated in terms of the fractional bactericidal concentration (FBC) index, time-kill assay results (in vitro), macrophage functions, i.e., intracellular killing, lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase activity, and generation of nitrite (ex vivo), and decreases in CFU of salmonellae in livers, spleens, and small intestines of infected mice treated with cryptdin 2 and/or Amp (in vivo). In vitro synergism between the two agents was observed on the basis of the FBC index and time-kill assays. When the agents were used in combination, ex vivo studies revealed an enhanced effect on macrophage functions, particularly exhibiting a synergetic effect in terms of SOD levels. In vivo synergy was indicated by larger log unit decreases in all target organs of mice treated with the combination than those for the drugs used alone. These results point toward the possible use of cryptdin 2 as an adjunct to ampicillin and may help in developing alternate strategies to combat Salmonella infections.

Paneth cells, antimicrobial peptides and maintenance of intestinal homeostasis

Building and maintaining a homeostatic relationship between a host and its colonizing microbiota entails ongoing complex interactions between the host and the microorganisms. The mucosal immune system, including epithelial cells, plays an essential part in negotiating this equilibrium. Paneth cells (specialized cells in the epithelium of the small intestine) are an important source of antimicrobial peptides in the intestine. These cells have become the focus of investigations that explore the mechanisms of host-microorganism homeostasis in the small intestine and its collapse in the processes of infection and chronic inflammation. In this Review, we provide an overview of the intestinal microbiota and describe the cell biology of Paneth cells, emphasizing the composition of their secretions and the roles of these cells in intestinal host defence and homeostasis. We also highlight the implications of Paneth cell dysfunction in susceptibility to chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Paneth cells, antimicrobial peptides and maintenance of intestinal homeostasis

Building and maintaining a homeostatic relationship between a host and its colonizing microbiota entails ongoing complex interactions between the host and the microorganisms. The mucosal immune system, including epithelial cells, plays an essential part in negotiating this equilibrium. Paneth cells (specialized cells in the epithelium of the small intestine) are an important source of antimicrobial peptides in the intestine. These cells have become the focus of investigations that explore the mechanisms of host-microorganism homeostasis in the small intestine and its collapse in the processes of infection and chronic inflammation. In this Review, we provide an overview of the intestinal microbiota and describe the cell biology of Paneth cells, emphasizing the composition of their secretions and the roles of these cells in intestinal host defence and homeostasis. We also highlight the implications of Paneth cell dysfunction in susceptibility to chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Paneth cell hyperplasia and metaplasia in necrotizing enterocolitis

Paneth cell dysfunction has been suggested in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The aim of this study was to i) study Paneth cell presence, protein expression, and developmental changes in preterm infants with NEC and ii) determine Paneth cell products and antimicrobial capacity in ileostomy outflow fluid. Intestinal tissue from NEC patients (n = 55), preterm control infants (n = 22), and term controls (n = 7) was obtained during surgical resection and at stoma closure after recovery. Paneth cell abundance and protein expression were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. RNA levels of Paneth cell proteins were determined by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. In ileostomy outflow fluid, Paneth cell products were quantified, and antimicrobial activity was measured in vitro. In acute NEC, Paneth cell abundance in small intestinal tissue was not significantly different from preterm controls. After recovery from NEC, Paneth cell hyperplasia was observed in the small intestine concomitant with elevated human alpha-defensin 5 mRNA levels. In the colon, metaplastic Paneth cells were observed. Ileostomy fluid contained Paneth cell proteins and inhibited bacterial growth. In conjunction, these data suggest an important role of Paneth cells and their products in various phases of NEC.

Human beta-defensin-2 increases cholinergic response in colon epithelium

The human beta-defensin-2 (hBD-2) is expressed in epithelial cells of skin and respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Defensins are arginine-rich small cationic peptides with six intramolecular disulfide bonds and are antimicrobially active against a broad spectrum of pathogens. In addition, they have cytokine-like immunomodulatory properties. We hypothesized that hBD-2 also might influence epithelial cells themselves, thereby altering fluid composition in the gastrointestinal tract. We therefore tested its impact on electrogenic ion transport properties of distal colon in Ussing chamber experiments. Application of hBD-2 did not affect transepithelial voltage or resistance in cAMP-stimulated distal colon. However, it increased cholinergic Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) secretion. After 20 min of incubation with hBD-2, the effect of carbachol (CCh) on the equivalent short circuit current (I'(sc)) was enhanced twofold compared to vehicle-treated colon. Modulation of Ca(2+) signaling by hBD-2 was validated by Fura-2 measurements in human colon carcinoma HT29 cells. Twenty-minute incubation with hBD-2 increased the CCh-induced Ca(2+) transient by 20-30% compared to either vehicle-treated cells or cells treated with the defensins hBD-1, hBD-3, or HD-5. This effect was concentration-dependent, with an EC(50) of 0.043 microg/ml, and still present in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+). Also, the ionomycin-induced Ca(2+) transient was increased by hBD-2 treatment. We conclude that hBD-2 facilitates cholinergic Ca(2+)-regulated epithelial Cl(-) secretion. These findings contribute to the concept of a specific interaction of antimicrobial peptides with epithelial function.

Modulation of intestinal barrier properties by probiotics: role in reversing colitis

Probiotic bacteria, commensals selected for their presumed therapeutic properties when ingested orally, have attracted increasing attention for their possible efficacy in a range of gastrointestinal disorders, including the inflammatory bowel diseases of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Since the barrier properties of the intestinal epithelium are believed to be compromised as a consequence (or perhaps as a cause) of intestinal inflammation, we hypothesized that probiotics might ameliorate such epithelial dysfunction as part of their spectrum of beneficial effects. We have used both cell line and animal models to test this hypothesis and show that two probiotics have significant effects on epithelial barrier properties, both at baseline and when deranged by inflammatory cytokines or in the setting of inflammation in a mouse model of colitis. Moreover, the probiotics also normalize epithelial ion transport function, which could also contribute to clinical efficacy. Overall, our studies extend the spectrum of functional effects attributable to probiotics, and may provide a rationale for their use in a range of gastrointestinal disorders associated with epithelial dysfunction.

[Herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang in treatment of migraine with hyperactive liver-yang syndrome and its effects on lymphocyte protein expression: a randomized controlled trial]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the efficacy of herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang in treatment of migraine patients with hyperactivity of liver-yang syndrome and to investigate its effects on the lymphocyte protein expression. This approach may lay a foundation for the further investigation of pathogenic mechanisms in migraine with hyperactive liver-yang syndrome and the curative mechanisms of calming liver and suppressing liver-yang treatment.

METHODS

A total of 32 migraine patients with hyperactivity of liver-yang syndrome were randomly divided into treatment group (16 cases) and control group (16 cases). The patients in the treatment group were treated with herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang in accordance with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory and the patients in the control group were treated with Flunarizine Capsules for two courses of treatment. The therapeutic effects, the score of TCM symptom and the changes of headache attack were observed in both groups before and after the treatment. The side effects were also observed in both groups. The level of differential protein expression was analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS).

RESULTS

The herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang had better effects on headache improvement than the Flunarizine Capsules (P<0.01). The cure rates in the treatment and control groups were 87.5% and 75.0% respectively. Vertigo, restlessness and tantrum, and prosopo-heat in the treatment group were also improved as compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the score of TCM symptom in the two groups were all decreased (P<0.01), and there was a significant difference between the treatment group and the control group (P<0.01). The herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang had no side effects. The average protein spots in the blood lymphocyte of normal people, migraine patients with hyperactivity of liver-yang syndrome in the treatment group before and after the treatment were (534+/-42), (552+/-54) and (529+/-55) spots respectively. Six down-regulated protein expressions and 14 up-regulated protein expressions were obtained in the treatment group. Four strengthened protein expressions in the six down-regulated proteins and 11 low protein expressions in the 14 up-regulated proteins were also obtained after treatment. Ten of the total 12 differential protein spots were successfully identified by MALDI-TOF-MS. The functions of these proteins were involved in metabolism, energy generation, transportation, antioxidation, signal transduction and immune, etc. According to information provided by NCBI and MSDB database, there were some proteins closely related to migraine with hyperactivity of liver-yang syndrome, such as peroxiredoxin 2, heat shock protein 27 and annexin A1.

CONCLUSION

Herbs for calming liver and suppressing liver-yang is effective in treating migraine, and can improve TCM symptoms. The effects on migraine patients with hyperactivity of liver-yang syndrome may be related to regulating the blood lymphocyte protein expression.

Necrotizing enterocolitis: A multifactorial disease with no cure

Necrotizing enterocolitis is an inflammatory bowel disease of neonates with significant morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. Due to the multifactorial nature of the disease and limitations in disease models, early diagnosis remains challenging and the pathogenesis elusive. Although preterm birth, hypoxic-ischemic events, formula feeding, and abnormal bacteria colonization are established risk factors, the role of genetics and vasoactive/inflammatory mediators is unclear. Consequently, treatments do not target the specific underlying disease processes and are symptomatic and surgically invasive. Breast-feeding is the most effective preventative measure. Recent advances in the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis have focused on bioactive nutrients and trophic factors in human milk. Development of new disease models including the aspect of prematurity that consistently predisposes neonates to the disease with multiple risk factors will improve our understanding of the pathogenesis and lead to discovery of innovative therapeutics.

Necrotizing enterocolitis: recent scientific advances in pathophysiology and prevention

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Here we review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of NEC, with an emphasis on the latest research findings and potential areas for future research. NEC continues to be one of the most devastating and unpredictable diseases affecting premature infants. Despite decades of research, the pathogenesis of this disease remains unclear, and prevention and treatment strategies are limited. Hopefully, future studies aimed at understanding premature intestinal defenses, commensal or probiotic bacterial influences, and possible genetic predisposition will lead to the improvement of prevention and treatment strategies.

Paneth cells, defensins, and the commensal microbiota: A hypothesis on intimate interplay at the intestinal mucosa

Mucosal surfaces are colonized by a diverse and dynamic microbiota. Much investigation has focused on bacterial colonization of the intestine, home to the vast majority of this microbiota. Experimental evidence has highlighted that these colonizing microbes are essential to host development and homeostasis, but less is known about host factors that may regulate the composition of this ecosystem. While evidence shows that IgA has a role in shaping this microbiota, it is likely that effector molecules of the innate immune system are also involved. One hypothesis is that gene-encoded antimicrobial peptides, key elements of innate immunity throughout nature, have an essential role in this regulation. These effector molecules characteristically have activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria and other microbes. At mucosal surfaces, antimicrobial peptides may affect the numbers and/or composition of the colonizing microbiota. In humans and other mammals, defensins are a predominant class of antimicrobial peptides. In the small intestine, Paneth cells (specialized secretory epithelial cells) produce high quantities of defensins and several other antibiotic peptides and proteins. Data from murine models indicate that Paneth cell defensins play a pivotal role in defense from food and water-borne pathogens in the intestinal lumen. Recent studies in humans provide evidence that reduced Paneth cell defensin expression may be a key pathogenic factor in ileal Crohn's disease, a subgroup of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and changes in the colonizing microbiota may mediate this pathogenic mechanism. It is also possible that low levels of Paneth cell defensins, characteristic of normal intestinal development, may predispose premature neonates to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) through similar close links with the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Future studies to further define mechanisms by which defensins and other host factors regulate the composition of the intestinal microbiota will likely provide new insights into intestinal homeostasis and new therapeutic strategies for inflammatory and infectious diseases of the bowel.

Melittin as a permeability enhancer II: in vitro investigations in human mucus secreting intestinal monolayers and rat colonic mucosae

PURPOSE

Melittin has shown potential as a non-cytotoxic absorption enhancer in Caco-2 monolayers. Our objectives were to assess in vitro efficacy and cytotoxicity of melittin in two intestinal permeability models and investigate the potential mechanism by which melittin might enhance gastrointestinal absorption.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of melittin were examined in the mucus-secreting intestinal cell monolayers, HT29-MTX-E12 (E12), using transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the MTT viability assay. The effects of melittin on TER, permeability and short circuit current (Isc) were also investigated in rat colon mucosae mounted in Ussing chambers. Ion transporting capacity of tissue was measured in response to secretagogues as surrogate markers of cytotoxicity. Melittin stability was examined by a means of a hemolytic assay. The mechanism by which melittin decreases TER across the rat mucosa was examined with a range of enzymatic inhibitors.

RESULTS

Apical addition of melittin resulted in a reversible non-cytotoxic concentration-dependent decrease in TER across E12 monolayers, which was independent of the presence of mucus. Apical addition of melittin reduced TER and increased the permeability of [(14)C]-mannitol across rat colonic mucosae. The melittin-induced drop in TER in rat colon was significantly attenuated by W7 suggesting partial mediation by calmodulin.

CONCLUSIONS

The rapid and reversible nature of melittin's permeation enhancing properties and its limited cytotoxicity in polarized intestinal epithelia, suggests a potential drug delivery role for the peptide in oral formulations of poorly absorbed drugs.

Gastrokine 1 expression in patients with and without Helicobacter pylori infection

BACKGROUND

To understand the molecular changes underlying Helicobacter pylori-related gastric diseases is mandatory to prevent gastric cancer. Proteomic technology is providing a rapid expansion of the basic knowledge, particularly in the discovery of new biomarkers involved in the tumourigenesis.

AIM

To characterise changes in protein expression level of the gastric mucosa in H. pylori-infected patients.

METHODS

The population enrolled comprised 41 dyspeptic patients. Proteins extracted from gastric mucosal specimens were analysed by 2-dimensional electrophoresis, sequenced by MALDI-TOF and identified by Edman's degradation.

RESULTS

Twenty-one out of 41 patients had H. pylori infection of whom 17 had anti-CagA IgG antibodies. Several proteins were identified, of which Rho guanosine diphosphatase dissociation inhibitor alpha and heat shock protein 27 increased and glutathione transferase and antrum mucosa protein-18 decreased in H. pylori-positive in respect to H. pylori-negative patients. Interestingly, antrum mucosa protein-18, currently referred as gastrokine-1, showed two isoforms differing in the first N-terminal amino acid residue. Both gastrokine-1 isoforms were observed in the H. pylori-negative group whereas a lower expression or even absence of the gastrokine-1 basic isoform was found in a subgroup (7/21) of H. pylori-positive patients with moderate-severe gastritis.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated the presence of gastrokine-1 isoforms of which the basic isoform was reduced in a subset of patients with H. pylori infection.

The struggle for iron: gastrointestinal microbes modulate the host immune response during infection

The gastrointestinal track is one source of potential bacterial entry into the host, and the local immune system at the mucosal border is paramount in establishing host immune tolerance and the immune response to invading organisms. Macrophages use iron for production of hydroxy-radical and superoxide reactions, which are necessary for microbial killing. Presumably, as a survival strategy, bacteria, which also require iron for survival, have adapted the ability to sequester iron from the host, thereby limiting the availability to macrophages. As current modes of antimicrobial therapy are evolving, examination of nontraditional therapies is emerging. One such potential therapy involves altering the bacterial micronutrient iron concentration. Necrotizing enterocolitis is a clinical condition where such a strategy makes intuitive sense. This review will describe the immune response to gastrointestinal infection, the mechanisms that the gastrointestinal system uses to absorb intraluminal iron, and the critical role iron plays in the infectious process.

Necrotising enterocolitis

Necrotising enterocolitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal emergencies in newborn infants. Here we review the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and pathophysiology of the disease, as well as strategies for diagnosis, management, and prevention. Necrotising enterocolitis is one of the most devastating and unpredictable diseases affecting premature infants. Despite decades of research, its pathogenesis remains unclear; diagnosis can be difficult; and treatment is challenging. We will need to improve our understanding of intestinal defences in premature infants, dietary and bacterial factors, and genetic effects that could predispose infants to necrotising enterocolitis before we can develop new strategies for prevention and treatment.

Recognition of pathogens and activation of immune responses in Drosophila and horseshoe crab innate immunity

In innate immunity, pattern recognition receptors discriminate between self- and infectious non-self-matter. Mammalian homologs of the Drosophila Toll protein, which are collectively referred to as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), including lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and lipoproteins, whereas the Drosophila Toll protein does not act as a PAMP receptor, but rather binds to Spätzle, an endogenous peptide. In Drosophila, innate immune surveillance is mediated by members of the peptidoglycan recognition protein (PGRP) family, which recognize diverse bacteria-derived peptidoglycans and initiate appropriate immune reactions including the release of antimicrobial peptides and the activation of the prophenoloxidase cascade, the latter effecting localized wound healing, melanization, and microbial phagocytosis. In the horseshoe crab, LPS induces hemocyte exocytotic degranulation, resulting in the secretion of various defense molecules, such as coagulation factors, antimicrobial peptides, and lectins. Recent studies have demonstrated that the zymogen form of the serine protease factor C, a major granular component of hemocyte, also exists on the hemocyte surface and functions as a biosensor for LPS. The proteolytic activity of activated factor C initiates hemocyte exocytosis via a G protein mediated signal transduction pathway. Furthermore, it has become clear that an endogenous mechanism for the feedback amplification of the innate immune response exists and is dependent upon a granular component of the horseshoe crab hemocyte.

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Antimicrobial peptides are present in immune and host defense cells of the human respiratory and gastroinstestinal tracts

Previous studies have implicated antimicrobial peptides in the host defense of the mammalian intestinal and respiratory tract. The aim of the present study has been to characterize further the expression of these molecules in non-epithelial cells of the human pulmonary and digestive systems by detailed immunohistochemical analysis of the small and large bowel and of the large airways and lung parenchyma. Additionally, cells obtained from bronchoalveolar lavage were analyzed by fluorescent activated cell sorting and immunostaining of cytospin preparations. hBD-1, hBD-2, and LL-37 were detected in lymphocytes and macrophages in the large airways, lung parenchyma, duodenum, and colon. Lymphocytes positive for the peptides revealed a staining pattern and distribution that largely matched that of CD3-positive and CD8-positive T-cells. Macrophages with positive staining for the antimicrobial peptides also stained positively for CD68 and CD74. In view of the morphology of the LL-37-positive and hBD-2-positive mucosal lymphocytes, they are probably also B-cells. Thus, antimicrobial peptides of the defensin and cathelicidin families are present in a variety of non-epithelial cells of mucosal organs. These findings confirm that antimicrobial peptides have multiple functions in the biology of the mucosa of these organs.

The induction of NOS2 expression by the hybrid cecropin A-melittin antibiotic peptide CA(1-8)M(1-18) in the monocytic line RAW 264.7 is triggered by a temporary and reversible plasma membrane permeation

There is an increasing awareness of immune cell modulation by antimicrobial peptides. While this process often requires specific receptors for the peptides involved, several reports point out to a receptor-independent process. The cecropin A-melittin hybrid peptide CA(1-8)M(1-18) (KWKLFKKIGIGAVLKVLTTGLPALIS-amide) modifies gene expression in the macrophage line RAW 264.7 in the absence of any previous macrophage priming, suggesting a membrane permeation process. To further analyze the initial steps of this mechanism, we have studied the interaction of the peptide with these cells. Below 2 microM, CA(1-8)M(1-18) causes a concentration-dependent membrane depolarization partially reversible with time. At 2 microM, the accumulation of the SYTOX green vital dye is one half of that achieved with 0.05% Triton X-100. The binding level, as assessed by fluorescein-labeled CA(1-8)M(1-18), varies from 7.7+/-1.2 to 37.4+/-3.9 x 10(6) molecules/cell over a 0.5-4.0 microM concentration range. Electrophysiological experiments with 0.5 microM CA(1-8)M(1-18), a concentration that triggers maximal NOS2 expression and minimal toxicity, show a reversible current induction in the RAW 264.7 plasma membrane that is maintained as far as peptide is present. This activation of the macrophage involves the production of nitric oxide, a metabolite lethal for many pathogens that results from unspecific membrane permeation by antimicrobial peptides, and represents a new mode of action that may open new therapeutic possibilities for these compounds against intracellular pathogens.

Trefoil factor 2 (TFF2) deficiency in murine digestive tract influences the immune system

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The gastrointestinal trefoil factor family (TFF1, TFF2, TFF3) peptides are considered to play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the mucosa. The physiological role of TFF2 in the protection of the GI tract was investigated in TFF2 deficiency.

METHODS

TFF2-/- mice were generated and differential expression of various genes was assessed by using a mouse expression microarray, quantitative real time PCR, Northern blots or immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

On an mRNA level we found 128 differentially expressed genes. We observed modulation of a number of crucial genes involved in innate and adaptive immunity in the TFF2-/- mice. Expression of proteasomal subunits genes (LMP2, LMP7 and PSMB5) involved in the MHC class I presentation pathway were modulated indicating the formation of immunoproteasomes improving antigen presentation. Expression of one subunit of a transporter (TAP1) responsible for importing degraded antigens into ER was increased, similarly to the BAG2 gene that modulates chaperone activity in ER helping proper loading on MHC class I molecules. Several mouse defensin (cryptdin) genes coding important intestinal microbicidal proteins were up-regulated as a consequence of TFF2 deficiency. Normally moderate expression of TFF3 was highly increased in stomach.

An antimicrobial peptide tachyplesin acts as a secondary secretagogue and amplifies lipopolysaccharide-induced hemocyte exocytosis

In the horseshoe crab, bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces exocytosis by granular hemocytes, resulting in the secretion of various defense molecules, such as lectins and antimicrobial peptides, via a G protein-mediating signaling pathway. This response is a key component of the horseshoe crab innate immune response against infectious microorganisms. Here, we report an endogenous amplification mechanism for LPS-induced hemocytes exocytosis. The concentration of LPS required for maximal secretion decreased in proportion to the density of hemocytes, suggesting the presence of a positive feedback mechanism for secretion via a mediator secreted from hemocytes. The exocytosed fluid of hemocytes was found able to induce hemocyte exocytosis in the absence of LPS. Furthermore, tachyplesin, a major antimicrobial peptide of hemocytes, was able to trigger exocytosis in an LPS-independent manner, which was inhibited by a phospholipase C inhibitor, U-73122, and a G protein inhibitor, pertussis toxin. Surface plasmon resonance analysis showed that tachyplesin directly interacts with bovine G protein. These findings suggest that the tachyplesin-induced hemocyte exocytosis also occurs via a G protein-mediating signaling pathway. We concluded that tachyplesin functions not only as an antimicrobial substance, but also as a secondary secretagogue of LPS-induced hemocyte exocytosis, leading to the amplification of the innate immune reaction at sites of injury.

Differential effects on human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication by alpha-defensins with comparable bactericidal activities

In addition to their antibacterial activities, certain antimicrobial peptides inactivate enveloped viruses, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To determine whether peptide bactericidal activities are predictive of antiviral activity, the anti-HIV properties of recombinant human alpha-defensin 5, mouse alpha-defensins, cryptdins (Crp) 3 and 4, and rhesus macaque myeloid alpha-defensins (RMADs) 3 and 4 were determined in vitro. The peptides, purified to homogeneity, had equivalent bactericidal activities that were similar to those of the native molecules. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed RMAD-4 and Crp3 had characteristic alpha-defensin tridisulfide arrays. Of the peptides analyzed, only RMAD-4 inhibited HIV infectivity at 150 microg/ml, and Crp3 unexpectedly increased HIV replication. Quantitative real-time PCRs for minus-strand strong stop DNA and complete viral cDNA synthesis were used to distinguish between preentry and postentry anti-HIV effects by RMAD-4. Viral exposure to RMAD-4 for 1 h prior to infection reduced HIV minus-strand strong stop DNA and HIV cDNA by 4- to 20-fold during the first round of replication, showing that RMAD-4-exposed virions were not entering cells during the first 24 h. On the other hand, when RMAD-4 was added coincident with HIV inoculation, no anti-HIV activity was detected. Viral exposure to Crp3 resulted in a threefold increase in both HIV minus-strand strong stop DNA and HIV cDNA over the first round of replication. Therefore, two alpha-defensins, RMAD-4 and Crp3, inhibit or augment HIV replication, respectively, by mechanisms that precede reverse transcription.

The Paneth cell and the innate immune response

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Innate immune defense of the small intestine is mediated in part by antimicrobial peptides and proteins secreted by Paneth cells, epithelial cells positioned at the base of the crypts of Lieberkuhn. Recent studies have yielded better understanding of the role that Paneth cells may play in host defense. Emerging data suggest that these cells may contribute to the pathophysiology of several human diseases. A wealth of data has also emerged on the regulatory pathways of Paneth cell functions and structure-function analysis on Paneth cell antimicrobials. This review discusses new reports in these areas.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies of transgenic and knockout mice have supported a pivotal role of Paneth cell defensins in protection from oral bacterial pathogens. Other studies suggest that Paneth cells may be the targets of virulence mechanisms of bacterial pathogens. New observations also suggest that Paneth cell dysfunction may contribute to the clinical phenotype of Crohn disease, necrotizing enterocolitis, and, perhaps, intestinal manifestations of cystic fibrosis.

SUMMARY

Paneth cells are emerging as key mediators of innate host defense in the small intestine. The antimicrobial activity of Paneth cell secretory products on transient and resident microbes in the gut may have a profound influence on health. The possible role of Paneth cell dysfunction in human disease and a better understanding of Paneth cell regulatory pathways are areas poised for significant advances in the near future.

A genome-wide screen identifies a single beta-defensin gene cluster in the chicken: implications for the origin and evolution of mammalian defensins

Background

Defensins comprise a large family of cationic antimicrobial peptides that are characterized by the presence of a conserved cysteine-rich defensin motif. Based on the spacing pattern of cysteines, these defensins are broadly divided into five groups, namely plant, invertebrate, α-, β-, and θ-defensins, with the last three groups being mostly found in mammalian species. However, the evolutionary relationships among these five groups of defensins remain controversial.

Results

Following a comprehensive screen, here we report that the chicken genome encodes a total of 13 different β-defensins but with no other groups of defensins being discovered. These chicken β-defensin genes, designated as Gallinacin 1–13, are clustered densely within a 86-Kb distance on the chromosome 3q3.5-q3.7. The deduced peptides vary from 63 to 104 amino acid residues in length sharing the characteristic defensin motif. Based on the tissue expression pattern, 13 β-defensin genes can be divided into two subgroups with Gallinacin 1–7 being predominantly expressed in bone marrow and the respiratory tract and the remaining genes being restricted to liver and the urogenital tract. Comparative analysis of the defensin clusters among chicken, mouse, and human suggested that vertebrate defensins have evolved from a single β-defensin-like gene, which has undergone rapid duplication, diversification, and translocation in various vertebrate lineages during evolution.

Conclusions

We conclude that the chicken genome encodes only β-defensin sequences and that all mammalian defensins are evolved from a common β-defensin-like ancestor. The α-defensins arose from β-defensins by gene duplication, which may have occurred after the divergence of mammals from other vertebrates, and θ-defensins have arisen from α-defensins specific to the primate lineage. Further analysis of these defensins in different vertebrate lineages will shed light on the mechanisms of host defense and evolution of innate immunity.

Defensins: antimicrobial peptides of vertebrates

This review, based on my presentation at the French Academy of Sciences on May 19, 2003, describes recent progress in the study of antimicrobial peptides, mediators of innate immunity in plants and animals. The main focus is on vertebrate defensins, a family of cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides abundantly represented in human cells and tissues.

Paneth cell cryptdins act in vitro as apical paracrine regulators of the innate inflammatory response

Intestinal-specific antimicrobial alpha-defensins, termed cryptdins, are secreted into the intestinal lumen by mouse Paneth cells in response to microbial pathogens. Cryptdins kill microbes by forming pores in their limiting membranes. The cryptdin isoforms 2 and 3 also can form anion-conductive pores in eukaryotic cell membranes, thus affecting cell physiology. Here, we find that when applied to apical membranes of the human intestinal cell line T84, cryptdin 3 (Cr3) induces secretion of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 8 (IL-8) in a dose-dependent manner. The induction of IL-8 secretion is specific to the cryptdins that form channels in mammalian cell membranes because cryptdin 4, which does not form pores in T84 cells, does not induce IL-8 secretion. Cr3 induces inflammatory cytokine secretion by activating NF-kappaB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in a Ca2+-dependent manner, but influx by extra-cellular Ca2+ is not involved. Unlike other known inflammatory agonists, signal transduction by Cr3 occurs slowly, suggesting a novel mechanism of action. These results show that selective cryptdins may amplify their roles in innate immunity by acting as novel paracrine agonists to coordinate an inflammatory response with the antimicrobial secretions of Paneth cells.

Spheniscins, avian beta-defensins in preserved stomach contents of the king penguin, Aptenodytes patagonicus

During the last part of egg incubation in king penguins, the male can preserve undigested food in the stomach for several weeks. This ensures survival of the newly hatched chick, in cases where the return of the foraging female from the sea is delayed. In accordance with the characterization of stress-induced bacteria, we demonstrate the occurrence of strong antimicrobial activities in preserved stomach contents. We isolated and fully characterized two isoforms of a novel 38-residue antimicrobial peptide (AMP), spheniscin, belonging to the beta-defensin subfamily. Spheniscin concentration was found to strongly increase during the period of food storage. Using a synthetic version of one of two spheniscin isoforms, we established that this peptide has a broad activity spectrum, affecting the growth of both pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Altogether, our data suggest that spheniscins and other, not yet identified, antimicrobial substances may play a role in the long term preservation of stored food in the stomach of king penguins.

Defensins: antimicrobial peptides of innate immunity

The production of natural antibiotic peptides has emerged as an important mechanism of innate immunity in plants and animals. Defensins are diverse members of a large family of antimicrobial peptides, contributing to the antimicrobial action of granulocytes, mucosal host defence in the small intestine and epithelial host defence in the skin and elsewhere. This review, inspired by a spate of recent studies of defensins in human diseases and animal models, focuses on the biological function of defensins.

Peptide fragments of AMP-18, a novel secreted gastric antrum mucosal protein, are mitogenic and motogenic

Antrum mucosal protein (AMP)-18 is a novel 18-kDa protein synthesized by cells of the gastric antrum mucosa. The protein is present in secretion granules of murine gastric antrum epithelial cells and is a component of canine antrum mucus, suggesting that it is secreted into the viscoelastic gel layer on the mucosal surface. Release of the protein appears to be regulated because forskolin decreased the amount of immunoreactive AMP-18 in primary cultures of canine antrum mucosal epithelial cells, and indomethacin gavaged into the stomach of mice reduced AMP-18 content in antrum mucosal tissue before inducing histological injury. A functional domain of the protein was identified by preparing peptides derived from the center of human AMP-18. A 21-mer peptide stimulated growth of gastric and intestinal epithelial cells, but not fibroblasts, and increased restitution of scrape-wounded gastric epithelial monolayers. These functions of AMP-18 suggest that its release onto the apical cell surface is regulated and that the protein and/or peptide fragments may protect the antral mucosa and promote healing by facilitating restitution and proliferation after injury.

Novel antimicrobial peptide of human epididymal duct origin

HE2, a gene expressed specifically in human epididymis, gives rise to multiple mRNAs that encode a group of small cationic secretory peptides. Localization of HE2 within the defensin gene cluster and prediction that beta-defensin-like modules exist suggest that these peptides have antimicrobial activity and represent components of the innate epithelial defense system of the epididymal duct. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis confirmed the occurrence of eight human HE2-derived transcripts, including minor mRNA variants, that had previously been shown only in animal species. Employing isoform-specific antibodies against the predicted HE2 products, multiple 4- to 8-kDa peptides were detected in human epididymal epithelium, epididymal fluid, and ejaculate. N-terminal microsequencing has suggested a proteolytic processing of these peptides by a furin-like proprotein convertase, which cleaves a propiece from the longer precursor peptides. HE2alpha and HE2beta1, representing major peptide isoforms in the human epididymis, were recombinantly expressed, and their susceptibility to furin cleavage was demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. Processed recombinant peptides and chemosynthetic fragments were included in antimicrobial tests. In addition to the beta-defensin-like HE2beta1 with its expected antibacterial function, HE2alpha C-terminal fragments showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, although it showed no significant similarity to beta-defensins nor to any other known protein family.

[beta]-defensins in lung host defense

Host defenses at the mucosal surface of the airways evolved to present many layers of protection against inhaled microbes. Normally, the intrapulmonary airways are sterile. Airway secretions contain numerous factors with antimicrobial activity that contribute to innate defenses. Many protein and peptide components exert bacteriostatic or bacteriocidal effects against a wide variety of organisms and may act in synergistic or additive combinations. The beta-defensins are a relatively recently described family of peptide antimicrobials that are widely expressed at mucosal surfaces, including airway and submucosal gland epithelia. These small cationic peptides are products of individual genes that exhibit broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and some enveloped viruses. Their expression in airway epithelia may be constitutive or inducible by bacterial products or pro-inflammatory cytokines. beta-defensins also act as chemokines for adaptive immune cells, including immature dendritic cells and T cells via the CCR6 receptor, and provide a link between innate and adaptive immunity. Alterations in the function of the beta-defensins may contribute to disease states. Here we review much of the biology of the beta-defensins, including gene discovery, genomic organization, molecular structure, regulation of expression, and function.

Cryptdin 3 forms anion selective channels in cytoplasmic membranes of human embryonic kidney cells

Cryptdins are antimicrobial peptides secreted by Paneth cells located at the base of intestinal crypts. In addition to their antimicrobial function, cryptdins may also regulate salt and water secretion by intestinal epithelial cells. Recent work with short-circuit current measurements indicated that at least one cryptdin peptide, cryptdin 3, induces apical conductance(s) in Cl(-) secretory, including cystic fibrosis, epithelia. In the present study, we characterized the cryptdin 3-induced anion channel activity in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells with single-channel patch-clamp techniques. The patch pipette was filled with solution containing different concentrations of cryptdin 3, and, after gigaseal formation, the channel activity was recorded with either cell-attached or inside-out patch modes. We found an anion selective channel with a conductance of 15 pS and open probability of 0.19, regardless of cryptdin 3 concentration. The mean open and closed times varied with the cryptdin 3 concentration. For cryptdin 3 concentrations of 10, 4, 1, and 0.5 microg/ml in the pipette, the corresponding mean open times were 1.2, 7.0, 9.0, and 17.4 ms and the corresponding mean closed times were 1.1, 1.6, 4.2, and 12.5 ms. These results suggest that cryptdin 3 forms anion-selective channels on the cytoplasmic membrane of HEK cells and that the kinetics of one such channel are affected by its interaction with other such channels.

BMAP-28, an antibiotic peptide of innate immunity, induces cell death through opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore

BMAP-28, a bovine antimicrobial peptide of the cathelicidin family, induces membrane permeabilization and death in human tumor cell lines and in activated, but not resting, human lymphocytes. In addition, we found that BMAP-28 causes depolarization of the inner mitochondrial membrane in single cells and in isolated mitochondria. The effect of the peptide was synergistic with that of Ca(2+) and inhibited by cyclosporine, suggesting that depolarization depends on opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. The occurrence of a permeability transition was investigated on the basis of mitochondrial permeabilization to calcein and cytochrome c release. We show that BMAP-28 permeabilizes mitochondria to entrapped calcein in a cyclosporine-sensitive manner and that it releases cytochrome c in situ. Our results demonstrate that BMAP-28 is an inducer of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore and that its cytotoxic potential depends on its effects on mitochondrial permeability.

Defensins of vertebrate animals

During the past year, novel beta-defensins of mice and men have been identified, together with a novel defensin subfamily (the circular or 'theta' minidefensins) in primates. Insight into the evolution of defensins has been obtained from structural studies, and several mechanisms related to microbial resistance to defensins have been delineated. There is now convincing evidence that defensins augment adaptive immune responses.

Electrolyte transport in the mammalian colon: mechanisms and implications for disease

The colonic epithelium has both absorptive and secretory functions. The transport is characterized by a net absorption of NaCl, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and water, allowing extrusion of a feces with very little water and salt content. In addition, the epithelium does secret mucus, bicarbonate, and KCl. Polarized distribution of transport proteins in both luminal and basolateral membranes enables efficient salt transport in both directions, probably even within an individual cell. Meanwhile, most of the participating transport proteins have been identified, and their function has been studied in detail. Absorption of NaCl is a rather steady process that is controlled by steroid hormones regulating the expression of epithelial Na(+) channels (ENaC), the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, and additional modulating factors such as the serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase SGK. Acute regulation of absorption may occur by a Na(+) feedback mechanism and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Cl(-) secretion in the adult colon relies on luminal CFTR, which is a cAMP-regulated Cl(-) channel and a regulator of other transport proteins. As a consequence, mutations in CFTR result in both impaired Cl(-) secretion and enhanced Na(+) absorption in the colon of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Ca(2+)- and cAMP-activated basolateral K(+) channels support both secretion and absorption of electrolytes and work in concert with additional regulatory proteins, which determine their functional and pharmacological profile. Knowledge of the mechanisms of electrolyte transport in the colon enables the development of new strategies for the treatment of CF and secretory diarrhea. It will also lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiological events during inflammatory bowel disease and development of colonic carcinoma.