Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 signaling downstream of TNF receptor-associated factor 2. Nuclear factor kappaB (NFkappaB)-inducing kinase requirement for activation of activating protein 1 and NFkappaB but not of c-Jun N-terminal kinase/stress-activated protein kinase

Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Prostaglandins and Cytokines in Humans: A Mini Review

Inflammation has been described for two millennia, but cellular aspects and the paradigm involving different mediators have been identified in the recent century. Two main groups of molecules, the prostaglandins (PG) and the cytokines, have been discovered and play a major role in inflammatory processes. The activation of prostaglandins PGE2, PGD2 and PGI2 results in prominent symptoms during cardiovascular and rheumatoid diseases. The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory compounds is nowadays a challenge for more targeted therapeutic approaches. The first cytokine was described more than a century ago and is now a part of different families of cytokines (38 interleukins), including the IL-1 and IL-6 families and TNF and TGFβ families. Cytokines can perform a dual role, being growth promotors or inhibitors and having pro- and anti-inflammatory properties. The complex interactions between cytokines, vascular cells and immune cells are responsible for dramatic conditions and lead to the concept of cytokine storm observed during sepsis, multi-organ failure and, recently, in some cases of COVID-19 infection. Cytokines such as interferon and hematopoietic growth factor have been used as therapy. Alternatively, the inhibition of cytokine functions has been largely developed using anti-interleukin or anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of sepsis or chronic inflammation.

Cytokine storm: behind the scenes of the collateral circulation after acute myocardial infarction

At least 17 million people die from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) every year, ranking it first among causes of death of human beings, and its incidence is gradually increasing. Typical characteristics of AMI include acute onset and poor prognosis. At present, there is no satisfactory treatment, but development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) can be key to improving prognosis. Recent research indicates that the levels of cytokines, including those related to promoting inflammatory responses and angiogenesis, increase after the onset of AMI. In the early phase of AMI, cytokines play a vital role in inducing development of collateral circulation. However, when myocardial infarction is decompensated, cytokine secretion increases greatly, which may induce a cytokine storm and worsen prognosis. Cytokines can regulate the activation of a variety of signal pathways and form a complex network, which may promote or inhibit the establishment of collateral circulation. We searched for published articles in PubMed and Google Scholar, employing the keyword “acute myocardial infarction”, “coronary collateral circulation” and “cytokine storm”, to clarify the relationship between AMI and a cytokine storm, and how a cytokine storm affects the growth of collateral circulation after AMI, so as to explore treatment methods based on cytokine agents or inhibitors used to improve prognosis of AMI.

Potential Pathophysiological Mechanisms Underlying Multiple Organ Dysfunction in Cytokine Release Syndrome

In recent decades, many serious respiratory infections have broken out all over the world, including SARS-CoV, MERS, and COVID-19. They are characterized by strong infectivity, rapid disease progression, high mortality, and poor prognosis. Excessive immune system activation results in cytokine hypersecretion, which is an important reason for the aggravation of symptoms, and can spread throughout the body leading to systemic multiple organ dysfunction, namely, cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Although many diseases related to CRS have been identified, the mechanism of CRS is rarely mentioned clearly. This review is intended to clarify the pathogenetic mechanism of CRS in the deterioration of related diseases, describe the important signaling pathways and clinical pathophysiological characteristics of CRS, and provide ideas for further research and development of specific drugs for corresponding targets to treat CRS.

Inflammatory Biomarkers Interleukin 1 Beta (IL-1β) and Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) Are Differentially Elevated in Tobacco Smoke Associated COPD and Biomass Smoke Associated COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, is characterized by abnormal activation of inflammatory cells. The increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), further amplify the inflammation. We evaluated the dose response relationship of IL-1β and TNF-α levels and severity of airflow limitation, and differential responses in IL-1β and TNF-α between biomass COPD (BMS-COPD) and tobacco smoke COPD (TS-COPD) using a case control design in 160 subjects. Patients with COPD had higher serum levels of both IL-1β and TNF-α compared to healthy controls. A large difference in TNF-α was observed between TS-COPD and BMS-COPD, where TS-COPD patients had much higher levels. Serum IL-1β levels were higher in BMS-COPD. Levels of IL-1β correlated better with severity of airflow limitation than TNF-α levels. Both TNF-α and IL-1β levels had a negative linear relationship with Forced Expiratory Volume in 1st second (FEV1) and six-minute walk distance. The correlations were stronger with FEV1 than six-minute walk distance. The correlations of TNF-α and IL-1β with St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores and body mass index (BMI) were not significant. In conclusion, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β are differently elevated in TS-COPD and BMS-COPD, respectively.

Tumour Necrosis Factor in Neuroplasticity, Neurogenesis and Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder is a pervasive and detrimental condition that involves changes in neuroplasticity and neurogenesis. Alcohol activates the neuroimmune system and alters the inflammatory status of the brain. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a well characterised neuroimmune signal but its involvement in alcohol use disorder is unknown. In this review, we discuss the variable findings of TNF's effect on neuroplasticity and neurogenesis. Acute ethanol exposure reduces TNF release while chronic alcohol intake generally increases TNF levels. Evidence suggests TNF potentiates excitatory transmission, promotes anxiety during alcohol withdrawal and is involved in drug use in rodents. An association between craving for alcohol and TNF is apparent during withdrawal in humans. While anti-inflammatory therapies show efficacy in reversing neurogenic deficit after alcohol exposure, there is no evidence for TNF's essential involvement in alcohol's effect on neurogenesis. Overall, defining TNF's role in alcohol use disorder is complicated by poor understanding of its variable effects on synaptic transmission and neurogenesis. While TNF may be of relevance during withdrawal, the neuroimmune system likely acts through a larger group of inflammatory cytokines to alter neuroplasticity and neurogenesis. Understanding the individual relevance of TNF in alcohol use disorder awaits a more comprehensive understanding of TNF's effects within the brain.

Oligonol, a Low Molecular Weight Polyphenol, Enhances Apoptotic Cell Death in Ovarian Cancer Cells via Suppressing NF-κB Activation

BACKGROUND

Oligonol, a low molecular weight polyphenol derived from lychee fruit, not only has anti-inflammatory effects in various disease conditions but also has antitumor-promoting effects. We evaluate the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-related anticancer effect of oligonol in ovarian cancer using SKOV-3 cells.

METHODS

Cell viability was examined after oligonol treatment using MTT assay and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production measurement. Subsequently, apoptotic cell death was visualized by the TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) method. The effect of oligonol on the NF-κB signaling pathway was evaluated using western blot analysis and luciferase activity measurement of p65, an NF-κB subunit.

RESULTS

Cell viability significantly decreased after oligonol treatment of 72 h. Apoptosis-related markers were highly expressed in oligonol-treated cells, and increased apoptosis after oligonol treatment was also confirmed using the TUNEL assay. Western blotting results showed the expression of NF-κB signaling pathway factors, p-ERK, TRAF2, and p-IκBα, increased following treatment with oligonol, whereas p65 and COX-2 expression decreased. Immunofluorescence imaging results showed p65 luciferase activity in the nucleus as well as a shift to cytoplasmic expression.

CONCLUSION

Oligonol treatment significantly enhances apoptotic cell death in SKOV-3 cells, with the suppression of NF-κB activation, which plays an essential role in this anticancer effect.

VOPP1 promotes breast tumorigenesis by interacting with the tumor suppressor WWOX

Background

The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) gene, frequently altered in breast cancer, encodes a tumor suppressor whose function is mediated through its interactions with cancer-related proteins, such as the pro-apoptotic protein p73α.

Results

To better understand the involvement of WWOX in breast tumorigenesis, we performed a yeast two-hybrid screen and co-immunoprecipitation assays to identify novel partners of this protein. We characterized the vesicular overexpressed in cancer pro-survival protein 1 (VOPP1) as a new regulator of WWOX. In breast cancer cells, VOPP1 sequestrates WWOX in lysosomes, impairs its ability to associate with p73α, and inhibits WWOX-dependent apoptosis. Overexpressed VOPP1 potentiates cellular transformation and enhances the growth of transplanted tumors in vivo. VOPP1 is overexpressed in breast tumors, especially in tumors that retain WWOX. Moreover, increased expression of VOPP1 is associated with reduced survival of patients with WWOX-positive, but not with WWOX-negative, tumors.

Conclusions

These findings emphasize the importance of the sequestration of WWOX by VOPP1 in addition to WWOX loss in breast tumors and define VOPP1 as a novel oncogene promoting breast carcinogenesis by inhibiting the anti-tumoral effect of WWOX.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12915-018-0576-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Targeting TNF and TNF Receptor Pathway in HIV-1 Infection: from Immune Activation to Viral Reservoirs

Several cellular functions such as apoptosis, cellular proliferation, inflammation, and immune regulation involve the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)/TNF receptor (TNFR) pathway. Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) interacts with the TNF/TNFR pathway. The activation of the TNF/TNFR pathway impacts HIV-1 replication, and the TNF/TNFR pathway is the target of HIV-1 proteins. A hallmark of HIV-1 infection is immune activation and inflammation with increased levels of TNF in the plasma and the tissues. Therefore, the control of the TNF/TNFR pathway by new therapeutic approaches could participate in the control of immune activation and impact both viral replication and viral persistence. In this review, we will describe the intricate interplay between HIV-1 proteins and TNF/TNFR signaling and how TNF/TNFR activation modulates HIV-1 replication and discuss new therapeutic approaches, especially anti-TNF therapy, that could control this pathway and ultimately favor the clearance of infected cells to cure HIV-infected patients.

Apoptosis through Death Receptors in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy-Associated Hippocampal Sclerosis

Seizure models have demonstrated that neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration are preponderant characteristics of epilepsy. Considering the lack of clinical studies, our aim is to investigate the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis in pharmacoresistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) associated with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) patients, TLE(HS). By a specific death receptor-mediated apoptosis array plate, 31 upregulated targets were revealed in the sclerotic hippocampus from TLE(HS) patients. Amongst them are the encoding genes for ligands (FASLG, TNF, and TNFSF10) and death receptors (FAS, TNFRSF1A, TNFRSF10A, and TNFRSF10B). In addition, we evaluated the hippocampal relative mRNA expression of the two TNF receptors, TNFRSF1A and TNFRSF1B, in patients, being both upregulated (n = 14; P < 0.01 and P < 0.04, resp.) when compared to the post mortem control group (n = 4). Our results have clearly suggested that three different death receptor apoptotic systems may be associated with the maintenance and progression of TLE-associated HS: (1) TNF-TNFRSF1A, (2) FASLG-FAS, and (3) TNFSF10-TNFRSF10A/B. Their effects on epilepsy are still scarcely comprehended. Our study points out to TNF and TNF receptor superfamily pathways as important targets for pharmacological studies regarding the benefits of an anti-inflammatory therapy in these patients.

The cnidarian origin of the proto-oncogenes NF-κB/STAT and WNT-like oncogenic pathway drives the ctenophores (Review)

The cell survival pathways of the diploblastic early multicellular eukaryotic hosts contain and operate the molecular machinery resembling those of malignantly transformed individual cells of highly advanced multicellular hosts (including Homo). In the present review, the STAT/NF-κB pathway of the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis is compared with that of human tumors (malignant lymphomas, including Reed-Sternberg cells) pointing out similarities, including possible viral initiation in both cases. In the ctenophore genome and proteome, β-catenin gains intranuclear advantages due to a physiologically weak destructive complex in the cytoplasm, and lack of natural inhibitors (the Dickkopfs). Thus, a scenario similar to what tumor cells initiate and achieve is presented through several constitutive loss-of-function type mutations in the destructive complex and in the elimination of inhibitors. Vice versa, malignantly transformed individual cells of advanced multicellular hosts assume pheno-genotypic resemblance to cells of unicellular or early multicellular hosts, and presumably to their ancient predecessors, by returning to the semblance of immortality and to the resumption of the state of high degree of resistance to physicochemical insults. Human leukemogenic and oncogenic pathways are presented for comparisons. The supreme bioengineers RNA/DNA complex encoded both the malignantly transformed immortal cell and the human cerebral cortex. The former generates molecules for the immortality of cellular life in the Universe. The latter invents the inhibitors of the process in order to gain control over it.

TNF and TNF receptor superfamily members in HIV infection: new cellular targets for therapy?

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and TNF receptors (TNFR) superfamily members are engaged in diverse cellular phenomena such as cellular proliferation, morphogenesis, apoptosis, inflammation, and immune regulation. Their role in regulating viral infections has been well documented. Viruses have evolved with numerous strategies to interfere with TNF-mediated signaling indicating the importance of TNF and TNFR superfamily in viral pathogenesis. Recent research reports suggest that TNF and TNFRs play an important role in the pathogenesis of HIV. TNFR signaling modulates HIV replication and HIV proteins interfere with TNF/TNFR pathways. Since immune activation and inflammation are the hallmark of HIV infection, the use of TNF inhibitors can have significant impact on HIV disease progression. In this review, we will describe how HIV infection is modulated by signaling mediated through members of TNF and TNFR superfamily and in turn how these latter could be targeted by HIV proteins. Finally, we will discuss the emerging therapeutics options based on modulation of TNF activity that could ultimately lead to the cure of HIV-infected patients.

The role of TNF-α and TNF superfamily members in the pathogenesis of calcific aortic valvular disease

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) represents a slowly progressive pathologic process associated with major morbidity and mortality. The process is characterized by multiple steps: inflammation, fibrosis, and calcification. Numerous studies focalized on its physiopathology highlighting different "actors" for the multiple "acts." This paper focuses on the role of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) members in the pathogenesis of CAVD. In particular, we discuss the clinical and experimental studies providing evidence of the involvement of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL), its membrane receptor RANK and its decoy receptor osteoprotegerin (OPG), and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) in valvular calcification.

An in vitro-in vivo model of epithelial mesenchymal transition in triple negative breast cancer

The loss of epithelial expression markers by neoplastic breast cancer cells in the primary tumor is believed to play a pivotal role during breast cancer metastasis. This phenomenon is the hallmark of the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Gene expression microarrays were performed to investigate key functional elements on an in vitro metastasis model derived from human breast epithelial cells (MCF10F) treated with 17 beta estradiol. We identified groups of SLUG associated genes modulated during EMT.

Historical perspectives on tumor necrosis factor and its superfamily: 25 years later, a golden journey

Although activity that induced tumor regression was observed and termed tumor necrosis factor (TNF) as early as the 1960s, the true identity of TNF was not clear until 1984, when Aggarwal and coworkers reported, for the first time, the isolation of 2 cytotoxic factors: one, derived from macrophages (molecular mass 17 kDa), was named TNF, and the second, derived from lymphocytes (20 kDa), was named lymphotoxin. Because the 2 cytotoxic factors exhibited 50% amino acid sequence homology and bound to the same receptor, they came to be called TNF-α and TNF-β. Identification of the protein sequences led to cloning of their cDNA. Based on sequence homology to TNF-α, now a total of 19 members of the TNF superfamily have been identified, along with 29 interacting receptors, and several molecules that interact with the cytoplasmic domain of these receptors. The roles of the TNF superfamily in inflammation, apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and morphogenesis have been documented. Their roles in immunologic, cardiovascular, neurologic, pulmonary, and metabolic diseases are becoming apparent. TNF superfamily members are active targets for drug development, as indicated by the recent approval and expanding market of TNF blockers used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohns disease, and osteoporosis, with a total market of more than US $20 billion. As we learn more about this family, more therapeutics will probably emerge. In this review, we summarize the initial discovery of TNF-α, and the insights gained regarding the roles of this molecule and its related family members in normal physiology and disease.

Cytokines and epilepsy

Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disorder affecting approximately 8 out of 1000 people. Its pathophysiology, however, has remained elusive in many regards. Consequently, adequate seizure control is still lacking in about one third of patients. Cytokines are soluble mediators of cell communication that are critical in immune regulation. In recent years, studies have shown that epileptic seizures can induce the production of cytokines, which in turn influence the pathogenesis and course of epilepsies. At the time of this review, the focus is mostly on interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα). In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding these cytokines and their potential roles in epilepsy. The focus concentrates on their expression and influence on induced seizures in animal models of epilepsy, as well as findings in human studies. Both proconvulsive and anticonvulsive effects have been reported for each of these molecules. One possible explanation for this phenomenon is that cytokines play dichotomous roles through multiple pathways, each of which is dependent on free concentration and available receptors. Furthermore, the immune-mediated leakage in the blood-brain-barrier also plays an important role in epileptogenesis. Nonetheless, these observations demonstrate the multifarious nature of cytokine networks and the complex relationship between the immune system and epilepsy. Future studies are warranted to further clarify the influence of the immune system on epilepsy and vice versa.

HIV-1 Nef inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced IL-12p40 expression by inhibiting JNK-activated NFkappaB in human monocytic cells

Impaired cellular immunity caused by decreased production of Th1-type cytokines, including interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a major feature of HIV-1-associated immunodeficiency and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. IL-12p40, an inducible subunit shared between IL-12 and IL-23, plays a critical role in the development of cellular immunity, and its production is significantly decreased during HIV infection. The mechanism by which HIV induces loss of IL-12p40 production remains poorly understood. We have previously shown that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced IL-12p40 production in monocytic cells is regulated by NFkappaB and AP-1 transcription factors through the activation of two distinct upstream signaling pathways, namely the c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) and the calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II-activated pathways. Herein, we show that intracellular nef expressed through transduction of primary monocytes and promonocytic THP-1 cells with retroviral-mediated nef gene inhibited LPS-induced IL-12p40 transcription by inhibiting the JNK mitogen-activated protein kinases without affecting the calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II-activated pathway. In addition, nef inhibited JNK-activated NFkappaB without affecting the AP-1 activity. Overall, our results suggest for the first time that intracellular nef inhibited LPS-activated JNK, which may cause inhibition of IL-12p40 expression in human monocytic cells by selectively inhibiting NFkappaB activity.

Induction of proneurotrophins and activation of p75NTR-mediated apoptosis via neurotrophin receptor-interacting factor in hippocampal neurons after seizures

Seizure-induced damage elicits a loss of hippocampal neurons mediated to a great extent by the p75 neurotrophin receptor (NTR). Proneurotrophins, which are potent apoptosis-inducing ligands for p75(NTR), were increased in the hippocampus, particularly in astrocytes, by pilocarpine-induced seizures; and infusion of anti-pro-NGF dramatically attenuated neuronal loss after seizures. The p75(NTR) is expressed in many different cell types in the nervous system, and can mediate a variety of different cellular functions by recruiting specific intracellular binding proteins to activate distinct signaling pathways. In this study, we demonstrate that neurotrophin receptor-interacting factor (NRIF) mediates apoptotic signaling via p75(NTR) in hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo. After seizure-induced injury, NRIF(-/-) mice showed an increase in p75(NTR) expression in the hippocampus; however, these neurons failed to undergo apoptosis in contrast to wild-type mice. Treatment of cultured hippocampal neurons with proneurotrophins induced association of NRIF with p75(NTR) and subsequent translocation of NRIF to the nucleus, which was dependent on cleavage of the receptor. Neurons lacking NRIF were resistant to p75(NTR)-mediated apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, we demonstrate some mechanistic differences in p75(NTR) signaling in hippocampal neurons compared with other cell types. Overall, these studies demonstrate the requirement for NRIF to signal p75(NTR)-mediated apoptosis of hippocampal neurons and that blocking pro-NGF can inhibit neuronal loss after seizures.

HO-1 underlies resistance of AML cells to TNF-induced apoptosis

In human monocytes, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) induces a proinflammatory response. In NF-κB–inhibited monocytes, TNF stimulates cell death/apoptosis. In the present study, we analyzed the response of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells to TNF stimulation in conjunction with NF-κB inhibition. In all AML-derived cells tested, NF-κB–inhibited cells were resistant to TNF-induced apoptosis. Further investigation revealed that the cytoprotective gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) was induced in NF-κB–inhibited AML cells in response to TNF stimulation, and HO-1 was responsible for the resistance of AML cells to the cytotoxic actions of TNF. Moreover, after transfection with HO-1 siRNA, the resistance to TNF-induced cell death signals of AML cells was removed. The HO-1 promoter region contains antioxidant-response elements that can bind the transcription factor NF-E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2). We further demonstrated that Nrf2 was activated by TNF under NF-κB–inhibited conditions, to play the major role in up-regulating HO-1 expression and ultimately the fate of AML cells. These results demonstrate a novel mechanism by which TNF-induced cell death is inhibited in AML cells through the induction of HO-1, via Nrf2 activation.

Rac mediates TNF-induced cytokine production via modulation of NF-kappaB

TNF is a key factor in a variety of inflammatory diseases. Here we report that TNF induced pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis of IL-6 and IL-8 is mediated by the Rho GTPase Rac. TNF induces p42/p44, p54 and p38 MAPK kinase; these kinases have been implicated in control of cytokine synthesis. However, over-expression of a dominant negative form of Rac strongly inhibited TNF-induced p42/44 MAPK kinase activation, but had little effect upon JNK and no effect upon p38 MAPK activity. Another key signalling pathway controlling cytokine expression is NF-kappaB. When analyzing TNF-induced NF-kappaB activity via luciferase-reporter assays or via EMSA, we were able to show that the dominant negative version of Rac could completely abrogate TNF-induced NF-kappaB activity. In addition, we also observed that inhibition of the ERK pathway led to a reduction in TNF-induced NF-kappaB transcriptional activity; this was accompanied by an ablation of TNF-induced p65 phosphorylation at serine 276. This would suggest that TNF-induced activation of Rac, lies upstream of NF-kappaB activation, and that the inhibition of this pathway results in inhibition of cytokine production.

Apoptosis and Cell Death: Relevance to Lung

In multicellular organisms, cell death plays an important role in development, morphogenesis, control of cell numbers, and removal of infected, mutated, or damaged cells. The term apoptosis was first coined in 1972 by Kerr et al.1 to describe the morphologic features of a type of cell death that is distinct from necrosis and is today considered to represent programmed cell death. In fact, the evidence that a genetic program existed for physiologic cell death came from the developmental studies of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.2 As time has progressed, however, apoptotic cell death has been shown to occur in many cell types under a variety of physiologic and pathologic conditions. Cells dying by apoptosis exhibit several characteristic morphologic features that include cell shrinkage, nuclear condensation, membrane blebbing, nuclear and cellular fragmentation into membrane-bound apoptotic bodies, and eventual phagocytosis of the fragmented cell (Figure 4.1). Figure 4.1

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha in human adipose tissue -- from signalling mechanisms to clinical implications

From its initial implication in the development of cachexia in the early 1980s, it is now almost 15 years ago that tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) was first shown to be involved in the development of insulin resistance in obesity. Since the original findings in mice, a wealth of data has been obtained in a variety of settings and species. This intensive research has demonstrated both similarities and differences between rodents and humans regarding the molecular mechanisms and metabolic consequences of TNF-alpha overexpression. This review will focus on the role of TNF-alpha in human white adipose tissue with particular emphasis on its regulation of lipolysis - an important pathway in adipocytes which is linked to insulin-resistant phenotypes in obesity and the metabolic syndrome.

Emodin and DHA potently increase arsenic trioxide interferon-alpha-induced cell death of HTLV-I-transformed cells by generation of reactive oxygen species and inhibition of Akt and AP-1

Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) is an aggressive lymphoproliferative disease of poor clinical prognosis associated with infection by the human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I). The use of arsenic trioxide (As2O3) has been shown to effectively treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) with greater than 80% of patients achieving complete remission. The combination of arsenic and interferon has also shown promising results in the treatment of ATL. The requirement for slow dosage increases of arsenic and the time required to achieve a pharmacologic active dose in patients is a major obstacle because median survival of patients with ATL is about 6 months. In this study we report a potent synergistic effect of the combination of arsenic trioxide and interferon alpha (As/IFN-alpha) with emodin and DHA on cell-cycle arrest and cell death of HTLV-I-infected cells. Importantly, we found that clinically achievable doses of DHA and emodin allowed for reduced arsenic concentrations by 100-fold while still remaining highly toxic to tumor cells. Our data provide a rationale for combined use of As/IFN-alpha with emodin and DHA in patients with ATL refractory to conventional therapy.

Oral mucosal endotoxin tolerance induction in chronic periodontitis

The oral mucosa is exposed to a high density and diversity of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, but very little is known about how immune homeostasis is maintained in this environment, particularly in the inflammatory disease chronic periodontitis (CP). The cells of the innate immune response recognize bacterial structures via the Toll-like receptors (TLR). This activates intracellular signaling and transcription of proteins essential for the induction of an adaptive immune response; however, if unregulated, it can lead to destructive inflammatory responses. Using single-immunoenzyme labeling, we show that the human oral mucosa (gingiva) is infiltrated by large numbers of TLR2(+) and TLR4(+) cells and that their numbers increase significantly in CP, relative to health (P < 0.05, Student's t test). We also show that the numbers of TLR2(+) but not TLR4(+) cells increase linearly with inflammation (r(2) = 0.33, P < 0.05). Double-immunofluorescence analysis confirms that TLR2 is coexpressed by monocytes (MC)/macrophages (mphi) in situ. Further analysis of gingival tissues by quantitative real-time PCR, however, indicates that despite a threefold increase in the expression of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) mRNA during CP, there is significant (30-fold) downregulation of TLR2 mRNA (P < 0.05, Student's t test). Also showing similar trends are the levels of TLR4 (ninefold reduction), TLR5 (twofold reduction), and MD-2 (sevenfold reduction) mRNA in CP patients compared to healthy persons, while the level of CD14 was unchanged. In vitro studies with human MC indicate that MC respond to an initial stimulus of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis (PgLPS) or Escherichia coli (EcLPS) by upregulation of TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and protein; moreover, IL-1beta mRNA is induced and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-10, IL-6, and IL-8 proteins are secreted. However, restimulation of MC with either PgLPS or EcLPS downregulates TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and protein and IL-1beta mRNA and induces a ca. 10-fold reduction in TNF-alpha secretion, suggesting the induction of endotoxin tolerance by either LPS. Less susceptible to tolerance than TNF-alpha were IL-6, IL-10, and IL-8. These studies suggest that certain components of the innate oral mucosal immune response, most notably TLRs and inflammatory cytokines, may become tolerized during sustained exposure to bacterial structures such as LPS and that this may be one mechanism used in the oral mucosa to attempt to regulate local immune responses.

JNK1 differentially regulates osteopontin-induced nuclear factor-inducing kinase/MEKK1-dependent activating protein-1-mediated promatrix metalloproteinase-9 activation

We have recently demonstrated that nuclear factor-inducing kinase (NIK) plays a crucial role in osteopontin (OPN)-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase/I kappa B alpha kinase-dependent nuclear factor kappa B (NF kappa B)-mediated promatrix metalloproteinase-9 activation (Rangaswami, H., Bulbule, A., and Kundu, G. C. (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 38921-38935). However, the molecular mechanism(s) by which OPN regulates NIK/MEKK1-dependent activating protein-1 (AP-1)-mediated promatrix metalloproteinase-9 activation and whether JNK1 plays any role in regulating both these pathways that control the cell motility are not well defined. Here we report that OPN induces alpha v beta3 integrin-mediated MEKK1 phosphorylation and MEKK1-dependent JNK1 phosphorylation and activation. Overexpression of NIK enhances OPN-induced c-Jun expression, whereas overexpressed NIK had no role in OPN-induced JNK1 phosphorylation and activation. Sustained activation of JNK1 by overexpression of wild type but not kinase negative MEKK1 resulted in suppression of ERK1/2 activation. But this did not affect the OPN-induced NIK-dependent ERK1/2 activation. OPN stimulated both NIK and MEKK1-dependent c-Jun expression, leading to AP-1 activation, whereas NIK-dependent AP-1 activation is independent of JNK1. OPN also enhanced JNK1-dependent/independent AP-1-mediated urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA) secretion, uPA-dependent promatrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activation, cell motility, and invasion. OPN stimulates tumor growth, and the levels of c-Jun, AP-1, urokinase type plasminogen activator, and MMP-9 were higher in OPN-induced tumor compared with control. To our knowledge this is first report that OPN induces NIK/MEKK1-mediated JNK1-dependent/independent AP-1-mediated pro-MMP-9 activation and regulates the negative crosstalk between NIK/ERK1/2 and MEKK1/JNK1 pathways that ultimately controls the cell motility, invasiveness, and tumor growth.

Human hepatic stellate cells express CCR5 and RANTES to induce proliferation and migration

Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the main producers of extracellular matrix in the fibrotic liver and are involved in the regulation of hepatic inflammation. The aim of this study was to characterize the role of regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed, and presumably secreted (RANTES) in activated HSCs. RANTES mRNA and protein secretion were strongly induced after stimulating HSCs with TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, or CD40L. RANTES production was NF-kappaB dependent, because inhibitor-kappaB (IkappaB) superrepressor and dominant-negative IkappaB kinase-2 almost completely blocked RANTES expression. NF-kappaB activation was sufficient to drive RANTES expression as demonstrated by the strong induction of RANTES in HSCs expressing NF-kappaB-inducing kinase. The JNK/activator protein-1 pathway also contributed to RANTES expression as demonstrated by the blocking effects of the JNK inhibitor SP600125. HSCs responded to stimulation with recombinant human (rh)RANTES with an increase in intracellular calcium concentration and a rapid increase in free radical formation. Furthermore, rhRANTES induced ERK phosphorylation, ERK-dependent [3H]thymidine incorporation, and HSC proliferation. Additionally, rhRANTES induced focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation and a substantial increase in HSC migration. HSCs functionally expressed chemokine receptor-5 (CCR5), as shown by flow-cytometric analysis and RT-PCR, and the inhibitory effects of a blocking CCR5 antibody on rhRANTES-induced ERK activation, proliferation, and migration. Diphenylene iodonium and N-acetylcysteine inhibited rhRANTES-induced ERK activation and HSC proliferation, indicating that NADPH oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species was required. In conclusion, RANTES and CCR5 represent potential mediators of 1) HSC migration and proliferation and 2) a cross-talk between HSCs and leukocytes during fibrogenesis.

Enhancement of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated JNK activity in rat aortic smooth muscle cells by pharmacological and adenovirus-mediated inhibition of inhibitory kappa B kinase signalling

1. In rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs), the putative nuclear factor kappa B (NFkappaB) inhibitor Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) was found to inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated NFkappaB DNA-binding. However, further investigation identified the site of inhibition as being at, or upstream of, the inhibitory kappa B kinases (IKKs) as their kinase activity was substantially reduced. 2. In addition, PDTC potentiated LPS-stimulated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP kinase) and MAP kinase-activated protein kinase-2 activity (the downstream target of p38 MAP kinase). 3. Another inhibitor of NFkappaB signalling, the serine protease inhibitor Nalphap-tosyl-L-lysine chloro-methylketone (TLCK), also inhibited LPS-stimulated IKK activity and potentiated JNK activity in response to LPS, suggesting that cross-talk may occur between the NFkappaB and stress-activated protein kinase pathways at the level of IKK or at a common point upstream. 4. Infection of RASMCs with an adenovirus encoding either inhibitory kappa Balpha or a dominant-negative IKKbeta potentiated LPS-stimulated JNK activity. 5. These studies therefore suggest that the loss of NFkappaB DNA-binding and resultant transcriptional activity, rather than the loss of IKK activity, is sufficient to cause an increase in JNK activity. This shows that either pharmacological or molecular inhibition of NFkappaB DNA-binding enhances JNK activation in vascular smooth muscle cells, an effect that may contribute to the pathophysiological effects of LPS.

Endothelial activation by angiotensin II through NFkappaB and p38 pathways: Involvement of NFkappaB-inducible kinase (NIK), free oxygen radicals, and selective inhibition by aspirin

Angiotensin-II (AII), the dominant effector of the renin-angiotensin system, is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis. Upregulation of the adhesion molecules VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and E-selectin in endothelial cells by inflammatory cytokines through nuclear factor kappa B (NFkappaB) activation is implicated in formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaque. Here we show that AII induces NFkappaB-dependent transcription in primary endothelial cell lines, leading to the upregulation of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. NFkappaB activation by AII is mediated by the NFkappaB-inducing kinase (NIK), a common mediator of NFkappaB activation by inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha. However, NFkappaB stimulation by AII differs from that of TNF-alpha since a TNF-receptor associated factor 2 (TRAF-2) dominant negative mutant does not prevent AII-mediated NFkappaB activation. In analogy with TNF-alpha-dependent activation of NFkappaB, treatment with either the anti-oxidant N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) or the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor acetyl salicylic acid (aspirin), but not indometacin, prevents the induction of NFkappaB-dependent transcription by AII. Thus, production of reactive oxygen species, aspirin (asp)-sensitive enzymes of the arachidonate metabolism, and NIK are common transducers of AII- and TNF-dependent pathways to NFkappaB. AII also activates the inflammatory p38 kinase in endothelial cells, an effect inhibited by exposure to either NAC or asp. Pharmacological interference of the p38 pathway, with the inhibitor SB 202190, prevented AII-mediated activation of the NFkappaB target V-CAM, without affecting degradation of IkappaBalpha. These results support a pro-inflammatory effect of the vasoactive peptide AII in endothelial cells, through at least two pathways-NFkappaB and p38-both of which are sensitive to asp and antioxidants.

Inhibition of tumor necrosis factor alpha-mediated NFkappaB activation and leukocyte adhesion, with enhanced endothelial apoptosis, by G protein-linked receptor (TP) ligands

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha is a critical mediator of inflammation; however, TNFalpha is rarely released alone and the "cross-talk" between different classes of inflammatory mediators is largely unexplored. Thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)) is released during I/R injury and exerts its effects via a G protein-linked receptor (TP). In this study, we found that TXA(2) mimetics stimulate leukocyte adhesion molecule (LAM) expression on endothelium via TPbeta. The potential interaction between TXA(2) and TNFalpha in altering endothelial survival and LAM expression was examined. IBOP, a TXA(2) mimetic, attenuated TNFalpha-induced LAM expression in vitro, in a concentration-dependent manner, by preventing TNFalpha-enhanced gene expression, and also reduced TNFalpha-induced leukocyte adhesion to endothelium both in vitro and in vivo. IBOP abrogated TNFalpha-induced NFkappaB activation in endothelial cells, as determined by reduced IkappaB phosphorylation and NFkappaB nuclear translocation, by inhibiting the assembly of signaling intermediates with the intracellular domain of TNF receptors 1 and 2 in response to TNFalpha. This inhibition resulted from the Galpha(q)-mediated enhancement of STAT1 activation and was reversed by anti-STAT1 antisense oligonucleotides. TNFalpha-mediated TNFR1-FADD association and caspase 8 activation were not inhibited by IBOP co-stimulation, however, resulting in a 2.6-fold increase in endothelial cell apoptosis. By stimulating the vessel wall and inducing endothelial cell apoptosis, TXA(2), in combination with TNFalpha, may hamper the angiogenic response during inflammation or ischemia, thus reducing revascularization and tissue viability.

Apoptotic signaling cascades

Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that results in the orderly and efficient removal of damaged or unnecessary cells, such as those resulting from DNA damage or during development. There are many factors that contribute to this process, each demonstrating specificity of function, regulation, and pathway involvement. The aim of this brief overview is to provide an introduction to a number of these factors as well as the various apoptotic pathways that have been identified.

Proteolytic signaling by TNFalpha: caspase activation and IkappaB degradation

Following binding its death receptor on the plasma membrane, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) induces the receptor trimerization and recruits a number of death domain-containing molecules to form the receptor complex. The complex promotes activation of downstream caspase cascade and induces degradation of IkappaBalpha. Caspases are activated using mechanisms of oligomeration and 'self-controlled proteolysis'. According to their structures and functions, apoptosis related caspases can be divided into upstream and downstream caspases. In general, upstream caspases cleave and activate downstream caspases by proteolysis of the Asp-X site. Activated caspases then cleaved target substrates. To date, more than 70 proteins have been identified to be substrates of caspases in mammalian cells. Caspases can alter the function of their target proteins by destroying structural components of the cytoskeleton and nuclear scaffold or by removing their regulatory domains. Activation of NF-kappaB is dependent on the degradation of IkappaBalpha. IkappaB kinase (IKK) phosphorylates IkappaBalpha at the residues 32 and 36 followed by polyubiquitination at lysine 21 and 22 and subsequent degradation of the molecules by 26S proteasome. There is extensive crosstalk between the apoptotic and NF-kappaB signaling pathways that emanate from TNF-R1. On the one hand, activation of NF-kappaB can inactivate caspases; on the other hand, activated caspases can inhibit the activation of NF-kappaB. Both processes involve in proteolysis. This crosstalk may be important for maintaining the balance between the two pathways and for determining whether a cell should live or die.

Constitutive nuclear factor-kappa B activity is required for central neuron survival

The function of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB within the developing and mature CNS is controversial. We have generated transgenic mice to reveal NF-kappaB transcriptional activity in vivo. As expected, constitutive NF-kappaB activity was observed within immune organs, and tumor necrosis factor-inducible NF-kappaB activity was present in mesenchymal cells. Intriguingly, NF-kappaB activity was also prominent in the CNS throughout development, especially within neocortex, olfactory bulbs, amygdala, and hippocampus. NF-kappaB in the CNS was restricted to neurons and blocked by overexpression of dominant-negative NF-kappaB-inducible kinase or the IkappaBalphaM super repressor. Blocking endogenous neuronal NF-kappaB activity in cortical neurons using recombinant adenovirus induced neuronal death, whereas induction of NF-kappaB activity increased levels of anti-apoptotic proteins and was strongly neuroprotective. Together, these data demonstrate a physiological role for NF-kappaB in maintaining survival of central neurons.

Differential requirement for NF-kappaB-inducing kinase in the induction of NF-kappaB by IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and Fas

In this study, we examined the role of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB)-inducing kinase (NIK) in distinct signaling pathways leading to NF-kappaB activation. We show that a dominant-negative form of NIK (dnNIK) delivered by adenoviral (Ad5dnNIK) vector inhibits Fas-induced IkappaBalpha phosphorylation and NF-kappaB-dependent gene expression in HT-29 and HeLa cells. Interleukin (IL)-1beta- and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced NF-kappaB activation and kappaB-dependent gene expression are inhibited in HeLa cells but not in Ad5dnNIK-infected HT-29 cells. Moreover, Ad5dnNIK failed to sensitize HT-29 cells to TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis at an early time point. However, cytokine- and Fas-induced signals to NF-kappaB are finally integrated by the IkappaB kinase (IKK) complex, since IkappaBalpha phosphorylation, NF-kappaB DNA binding activity, and IL-8 gene expression were strongly inhibited in HT-29 and HeLa cells overexpressing dominant-negative IKKbeta (Ad5dnIKKbeta). Our findings support the concept that cytokine signaling to NF-kappaB is redundant at the level of NIK. In addition, this study demonstrates for the first time the critical role of NIK and IKKbeta in Fas-induced NF-kappaB signaling cascade.

Signaling molecules of the NF-kappa B pathway shuttle constitutively between cytoplasm and nucleus

We aimed to investigate the dynamics of the NF-kappaB signaling pathway in living cells using GFP variants of p65-NF-kappaB, IkappaBalpha, tumor necrosis factor-receptor associated factor 2 (TRAF2), the NF-kappaB inducing kinase (NIK) and IkappaB kinases (IKK1 and IKK2). Detailed kinetic analysis of constitutive nucleocytoplasmic shuttling processes revealed that IkappaBalpha enters the nucleus faster than p65. Examination of signaling molecules upstream of NF-kappaB and IkappaBalpha revealed a predominant cytoplasmic localization at steady state. However, after addition of leptomycin B, NIK rapidly accumulated in the nucleus, whereas we could not detect any significant effect on TRAF2 or IKK2. Using various truncation mutants of NIK, we identified a functional nuclear export signal within the COOH-terminal region 795-805, which counteracts the inherent NLS at amino acids 143-149. Prolonged incubation in the presence of LMB also leads to nuclear accumulation of IKK1, which was dependent on a lysine residue at position 44, which is also essential for kinase activity. Investigation of endogenous protein levels by immunofluorescence staining and Western blots verified the results obtained with GFP chimeras. We conclude that NF-kappaB.IkappaB complexes and the upstream signaling kinases NIK and IKK1 shuttle between cytoplasm and nucleus of nonactivated cells and that this process leads to a basal transcriptional activity of NF-kappaB.

Vav cooperates with CD28 to induce NF-kappaB activation via a pathway involving Rac-1 and mitogen-activated kinase kinase 1

CD28-delivered costimulatory signals are required to induce NF-kappaB activation in response to TCR stimulation. We have recently demonstrated that the mitogen-activated kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1), a kinase known to regulate the c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, is also involved in the CD28- and TCR-induced inhibitor of kappaB factor (IkappaB) kinases (IKK) and NF-kappaB activation. Searching for molecules that couple TCR and CD28 to MEKK1, we found that the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Vav synergized with CD28 stimulation in Jurkat cells to induce NF-kappaB transcriptional activity through the activation of IKKalpha and IKKbeta. Dominant negative mutants of Vav inhibited TCR- and CD28-NF-kappaB-dependent transcription by interfering with the activation of the IKK complex. Blocking Rac signaling downstream of Vav by dominant negative RacN17 exerts similar effects on IKK and NF-kappaB activation after TCR/CD28 stimulation. Finally, Vav-induced NF-kappaB activation in CD28 costimulated cells was inhibited by dominant negative MEKK(KM). These results identify Vav, Rac-1 and MEKK1 as components of a common pathway regulating both NF-kappaB and AP-1 that contributes to full activation of the CD28 response element (CD28RE).

Reactive oxygen species are downstream products of TRAF-mediated signal transduction

Members of the TNFR (tumor necrosis factor receptor) superfamily are involved in regulating activation and differentiation of cells as well as cell survival and programmed cell death/apoptosis. Multimerization of TNFRs can lead to recruitment of TRAFs (TNFR-associated factors) by the receptors resulting in activation of kinases and transcription factors, such as c-Jun N-terminal kinase and nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB). Signal transduction triggered by TNF-alpha also induces an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS have been suggested to play a role in NF-kappaB activation, which is thought to promote cell survival. However, oxidation of proteins and lipids by ROS can also result in apoptosis. The processes generating intracellular ROS and the mechanism(s) regulating the cellular redox status have not been fully elucidated. We investigated whether TRAFs play a role in controlling intracellular ROS levels. Our results indicate that recruitment of TRAFs to the plasma membrane of human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells is crucial for activation of signaling pathways, which regulate ROS production in mitochondria. TRAF-mediated changes in ROS levels enhanced NF-kappaB activation but were not dependent on NF-kappaB-inducing kinase. Consistent with its anti-apoptotic function, Bcl-x(L) interfered with TRAF-mediated ROS generation but not NF-kappaB activation. Taken together, our results suggest a novel role of TRAFs in signal transduction pathways triggered by TNFR-related proteins, which balance cell survival and apoptosis by regulating the electron transport in mitochondria.

Specific deficiency in nuclear factor-kappaB activation in neurons of the central nervous system

The expression and activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) in neurons and glia of the central nervous system (CNS) has been intensely investigated because of its potential importance in understanding how this multifunctional transcription factor controls developmental and pathological processes. In particular, there has been interest in how NF-kappaB may be differentially regulated in these two major functional subgroups of cells in the CNS to provide for specific responses to various stimuli. Of special interest are responses to both proinflammatory cytokines and microbial products that signal from specific cell receptors to activate NF-kappaB. In the present studies, both neurons and glia (astrocytes) in vivo expressed latent cytoplasmic NF-kappaB analyzed by immunofluorescence microscopy and electrophoretic mobility shift analysis. In vitro, neurons and astrocytes expressed comparable levels of latent NF-kappaB molecules, but NF-kappaB nuclear localization stimulated by proinflammatory cytokines or microbial products was markedly deficient in neurons. In accord with this finding, the rapid degradation of inhibitor of NF-kappaB alpha (IkappaBalpha) that is seen in astrocytes did not occur in neurons in response to these agents. However, long-term exposure to translational inhibitors resulted in IkappaBalpha decay and activation of latent NF-kappaB in neurons, indicating potential NF-kappaB activity in these cells. Analysis of NF-kappaB-responsive interferon regulatory factor-1 gene expression indicated that increased nuclear NF-kappaB in neurons had transcriptional potential. We conclude that mechanisms responsible for inducible targeting of IkappaBalpha are uniquely regulated in neurons and account for the hypo-responsiveness of these cells to signals generated during microbial infections in the CNS. Thus, modulation of signals that target IkappaBalpha degradation may be unique and a key component of specific NF-kappaB regulation in neurons.

Ligands of macrophage scavenger receptor induce cytokine expression via differential modulation of protein kinase signaling pathways

Our previous works demonstrated that ligands of macrophage scavenger receptor (MSR) induce protein kinases (PKs) including protein-tyrosine kinase (PTK) and up-regulate urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression (Hsu, H. Y., Hajjar, D. P., Khan, K. M., and Falcone, D. J. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 1240--1246). To continue to investigate MSR ligand-mediated signal transductions, we focus on ligands, oxidized low density lipoprotein (OxLDL), and fucoidan induction of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1). In brief, in murine macrophages J774A.1, OxLDL and fucoidan up-regulate TNF production; additionally, fucoidan but not OxLDL induces IL-1 secretion, prointerleukin 1 (proIL-1, precursor of IL-1) protein, and proIL-1 message. Simultaneously, fucoidan stimulates activity of interleukin 1-converting enzyme. We further investigate the molecular mechanism by which ligand binding-induced PK-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in regulation of expression of proIL-1 and IL-1. Specifically, fucoidan stimulates activity of p21-activated kinase (PAK) and of the MAPKs extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38. Combined with PK inhibitors and genetic mutants of Rac1 and JNK in PK activity assays, Western blotting analyses, and IL-1 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the role of individual PKs in the regulation of proIL-1/IL-1 was extensively dissected. Moreover, tyrosine phosphorylation of pp60Src as well as association between pp60Src and Hsp90 play important roles in fucoidan-induced proIL-1 expression. We are the first to establish two fucoidan-mediated signaling pathways: PTK(Src)/Rac1/PAK/JNK and PTK(Src)/Rac1/PAK/p38, but not PTK/phospholipase C-gamma 1/PKC/MEK1/ERK, playing critical roles in proIL-1/IL-1 regulation. Our current results indicate and suggest a model for MSR ligands differentially modulating specific PK signal transduction pathways, which regulate atherogenesis-related inflammatory cytokines TNF and IL-1.

IκB Kinase Is Critical for TNF-α-Induced VCAM1 Gene Expression in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells

The expression of VCAM1 is up-regulated in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (TEC) in a variety of inflammatory renal diseases, a prominent example of which is acute renal allograft rejection. VCAM1 may play an important role in these diseases because it binds to the integrins very late Ag-4 and alpha(4)beta(7) on lymphocytes and monocytes, thereby providing a potential mechanism to recruit these leukocytes to sites of inflammation. The molecular mechanisms underlying VCAM1 regulation in renal TEC are essentially unknown. We now report that VCAM1 mRNA is dramatically up-regulated in C1, a cell line derived from renal TEC, on exposure to TNF-alpha. Two NF-kappaB binding sites in the VCAM1 promoter are critical for the TNF-alpha-induced VCAM1 transcriptional up-regulation, and both sites bind to p65-p50 NF-kappaB complexes. TNF-alpha induces activation of inhibitor of NF-kappaB (IkappaB) kinase-beta (IKK-beta), a protein kinase that phosphorylates the NF-kappaB inhibitor IkappaB, and thereby targets the latter for degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Moreover, dominant negative versions of IKK inhibit TNF-alpha activation of a VCAM1 promoter reporter. We conclude that the IKK/NF-kappaB pathway is critical in the TNF-alpha-induced up-regulation of VCAM1 mRNA in renal TEC.

Hepatitis C virus core protein enhances FADD-mediated apoptosis and suppresses TRADD signaling of tumor necrosis factor receptor

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) core protein has been shown to interact with the death domain (DD) of tumor necrosis factor receptor-1 (TNFR1). In this study, we further examined the interaction of the core protein with the signaling molecules of TNFR1, including FADD, TRADD, and TRAF2, in a human embryonic kidney cell line, HEK-293, that overexpresses the HCV core protein. This core protein-expressing cell line exhibited enhanced sensitivity to TNF-induced apoptosis. By in vitro binding and in vivo coimmunoprecipitation assays, we showed that the HCV core protein interacted with the DD of FADD and enhanced apoptosis induced by FADD overexpression. This enhancement could be blocked by a dominant-negative mutant of FADD. In contrast, the core protein did not directly interact with the DD of TRADD, but could disrupt the binding of TRADD to TNFR1. TRAF2 recruitment to the TNFR1 signaling complex was also disrupted by the core protein. Correspondingly, TRAF2-dependent activation of the protein kinase JNK was suppressed in the core protein-expressing cells. However, NF kappa B activation by TNF was not significantly altered by the HCV core protein, suggesting the existence of TRAF2-independent pathways for NF kappa B activation. These results combined indicate that the HCV core protein sensitizes cells to TNF-induced apoptosis primarily by facilitating FADD recruitment to TNFR1. The inhibition of JNK activation by the HCV core protein may also contribute to the increased propensity of cells for apoptosis. These results, in comparison with other published studies, suggest that the effects of the HCV core protein and their underlying mechanisms vary significantly among cells of different origins.

Effects of the NIK aly mutation on NF-kappaB activation by the Epstein-Barr virus latent infection membrane protein, lymphotoxin beta receptor, and CD40

Homozygosity for the aly point mutation in NF-kappaB-inducing kinase (NIK) results in alymphoplasia in mice, a phenotype similar to that of homozygosity for deletion of the lymphotoxin beta receptor (LTbetaR). We now find that NF-kappaB activation by Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) or by an LMP1 transmembrane domain chimera with the LTbetaR signaling domain in human embryonic kidney 293 cells is selectively inhibited by a wild type dominant negative NIK comprised of amino acids 624-947 (DN-NIK) and not by aly DN-NIK. In contrast, LMP1/CD40 is inhibited by both wild type (wt) and aly DN-NIK. LMP1, an LMP1 transmembrane domain chimera with the LTbetaR signaling domain, and LMP1/CD40 activate NF-kappaB in wt or aly murine embryo fibroblasts. Although wt and aly NIK do not differ in their in vitro binding to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1, 2, 3, or 6 or in their in vivo association with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 and differ marginally in their very poor binding to IkappaB kinase beta (IKKbeta), only wt NIK is able to bind to IKKalpha. These data are compatible with a model in which activation of NF-kappaB by LMP1 and LTbetaR is mediated by an interaction of NIK or a NIK-like kinase with IKKalpha that is abrogated by the aly mutation. On the other hand, CD40 mediates NF-kappaB activation through a kinase that interacts with a different component of the IKK complex.

NF-kappaB stimulates inducible nitric oxide synthase to protect mouse hepatocytes from TNF-alpha- and Fas-mediated apoptosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hepatocyte apoptosis is induced by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and Fas ligand. Although nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation protects hepatocytes from TNF-alpha-mediated apoptosis, the NF-kappaB responsive genes that protect hepatocytes are unknown. Our aim was to study the role of NF-kappaB activation and inducible nitric oxide synthases (iNOSs) in TNF-alpha- and Fas-mediated apoptosis in hepatocytes.

METHODS

Primary cultures of hepatocytes from wild-type and iNOS knockout mice were treated with TNF-alpha, the Fas agonistic antibody Jo2, a nitric oxide (NO) donor (S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine), an NO inhibitor (N(G)-methyl-L-arginine acetate), and/or adenovirus-expressing NF-kappaB inhibitors.

RESULTS

The IkappaB superrepressor and a dominant-negative form of IkappaB kinase beta (IKKbeta) inhibited NF-kappaB binding activity by TNF-alpha or Jo2 and sensitized hepatocytes to TNF-alpha- and Jo2-mediated apoptosis. TNF-alpha and Jo2 induced iNOS messenger RNA and protein levels through the induction of NF-kappaB. S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine inhibited Bid cleavage, the mitochondrial permeability transition, cytochrome c release, and caspase-8 and -3 activity, and reduced TNF-alpha- and Fas-mediated death in hepatocytes expressing IkappaB superrepressor. N(G)-methyl-L-arginine acetate partially sensitized hepatocytes to TNF-alpha- and Fas-mediated cell killing. TNF-alpha alone or Jo2 alone induced moderate cell death in hepatocytes from iNOS(-)/(-) mice.

CONCLUSIONS

NO protects hepatocytes from TNF-alpha- and Fas-mediated apoptosis. Endogenous iNOS, which is activated by NF-kappaB via IKKbeta, provides partial protection from apoptosis.

Embryonic mouse submandibular salivary gland morphogenesis and the TNF/TNF-R1 signal transduction pathway

TNF is a pleiotropic cytokine that modulates cell proliferation and apoptosis. The objective of the present study was to investigate the possible function(s) of the TNF/TNF-R1 signaling pathway in embryonic mouse submandibular salivary gland (SMG) morphogenesis. After characterizing in vivo mRNA and protein expression of various constituents of this pathway, we utilized in vitro experiments to investigate the phenotypic outcomes of enhanced and deficient ligand. The results of these experiments indicate that the TNF/TNF-R1 signal transduction pathway plays an important role in balancing cell proliferation and apoptosis during SMG duct and presumptive acini formation.

Decreased fumonisin hepatotoxicity in mice with a targeted deletion of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1

Fumonisin B1 (FB1), a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium verticillioides and related fungi infests corn and other cereals, and causes a variety of toxic effects in different mammalian species. Hepatotoxicity is a common toxic response in most species. The cellular responses of FB1 involve inhibition of ceramide synthase leading to accumulation of free sphingoid bases and a corresponding induction of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha). We recently reported that FB1 hepatotoxicity was considerably reduced in a mouse strain lacking tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2 or TNFR1b). To further investigate the relative contribution of the two TNFalpha receptors (TNFR1 and TNFR2 or P55 and P75 receptors) we evaluated the hepatotoxicity of FB1 in male C57BL/6J mice (WT) and a corresponding TNFR1 knockout (TNFRKO) strain, genetically modified by a targeted deletion of this receptor. The hepatotoxic effects of five daily injections of 2.25 mg/kg per day of FB1 were observed in WT but were reduced in TNFRKO, evidenced by the microscopic evaluation of the liver and increased concentrations of circulating alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. FB1 induced the expression of TNFalpha, and similar increases in free sphinganine and sphingosine in livers of both WT and TNFRKO mice. Results indicated that both P55 and P75 receptors are required for FB1-induced hepatotoxicity and TNFalpha plays an important role in such response in mouse liver.

Hyaluronidase induction of a WW domain-containing oxidoreductase that enhances tumor necrosis factor cytotoxicity

To determine how hyaluronidase increases certain cancer cell sensitivity to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) cytotoxicity, we report here the isolation and characterization of a hyaluronidase-induced murine WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WOX1). WOX1 is composed of two N-terminal WW domains, a nuclear localization sequence, and a C-terminal alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) domain. WOX1 is mainly located in the mitochondria, and the mitochondrial targeting sequence was mapped within the ADH domain. Induction of mitochondrial permeability transition by TNF, staurosporine, and atractyloside resulted in WOX1 release from mitochondria and subsequent nuclear translocation. TNF-mediated WOX1 nuclear translocation occurred shortly after that of nuclear factor-kappaB nuclear translocation, whereas both were independent events. WOX1 enhanced TNF cytotoxicity in L929 cells via its WW and ADH domains as determined using stable cell transfectants. In parallel with this observation, WOX1 also enhanced TRADD (TNF receptor-associated death domain protein)-mediated cell death in transient expression experiments. Antisense expression of WOX1 raised TNF resistance in L929 cells. Enhancement of TNF cytotoxicity by WOX1 is due, in part, to its significant down-regulation of the apoptosis inhibitors Bcl-2 and Bcl-x(L) (>85%), but up-regulation of pro-apoptotic p53 ( approximately 200%) by the ADH domain. When overexpressed, the ADH domain mediated apoptosis, probably due to modulation of expression of these proteins. The WW domains failed to modulate the expression of these proteins, but sensitized COS-7 cells to TNF killing and mediated apoptosis in various cancer cells independently of caspases. Transient cotransfection of cells with both p53 and WOX1 induced apoptosis in a synergistic manner. WOX1 colocalizes with p53 in the cytosol and binds to the proline-rich region of p53 via its WW domains. Blocking of WOX1 expression by antisense mRNA abolished p53 apoptosis. Thus, WOX1 is a mitochondrial apoptogenic protein and an essential partner of p53 in cell death.

The ectodermal dysplasia receptor activates the nuclear factor-kappaB, JNK, and cell death pathways and binds to ectodysplasin A

The ectodermal dysplasia receptor (EDAR) is a recently isolated member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family that has been shown to play a key role in the process of ectodermal differentiation. We present evidence that EDAR is capable of activating the nuclear factor-kappaB, JNK, and caspase-independent cell death pathways and that these activities are impaired in mutants lacking its death domain or those associated with anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia and the downless phenotype. Although EDAR possesses a death domain, it did not interact with the death domain-containing adaptor proteins TRADD and FADD. EDAR successfully interacted with various TRAF family members; however, a dominant-negative mutant of TRAF2 was incapable of blocking EDAR-induced nuclear factor-kappaB or JNK activation. Collectively, the above results suggest that EDAR utilizes a novel signal transduction pathway. Finally, ectodysplasin A can physically interact with the extracellular domain of EDAR and thus represents its biological ligand.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha -mediated protein kinases in regulation of scavenger receptor and foam cell formation on macrophage

We previously reported tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) modulates transcriptional and post-transcriptional down-regulation of macrophage scavenger receptor (MSR) (Hsu, H. Y., Nicholson, A. C., and Hajjar, D. P. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 7767-7773); however, TNF-mediated signaling mechanisms are unknown. Here, we demonstrate that ligation of TNF receptor stimulates activity of p21-activated protein kinase (PAK) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) as follows: ERK, JNK, and p38 in murine macrophage J774A.1 cells. Upon activation of protein kinases (PK), TNF rapidly increases MSR message and protein; later it markedly reduces MSR expression. Studies using PK inhibitors and dominant negative constructs demonstrate phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Rac1/PAK/JNK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Rac1/PAK/p38 pathways contribute to important roles in the late stage of TNF down-regulation of MSR expression and taking up of OxLDL. Alternatively, the PKC/MEK1/ERK pathway in the early stage plays a significant role in up-regulation of the MSR gene. By using anti-TNF-R1 agonist antibody, we further confirm TNF-R1-mediated MAPK in regulation of MSR. Furthermore, in MSR gene promoter-driven luciferase reporter assays with TNF, PKC activator increases, but antioxidant N-acetylcysteine, PK inhibitors, and dominant negative constructs decrease luciferase activity in MSR gene promoter-transfected cells. Our current results show the first evidence of crucial roles for TNF-mediated MAPK pathways in the transcriptional regulation of MSR gene and increase MSR expression; in contrast, with TNF longer treatment the pathways down-regulate MSR and foam cell formation probably via post-transcriptional process.