Enzymatic activity of the Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase is regulated by a plasma membrane location

Differential activation of the inositol 5-phosphatase SHIP2 by EGF and insulin signaling pathways

The importance of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5- trisphosphate (PIP3) in cell signaling has been well established. Despite phosphatidylinositol 3,4-bisphosphate [PI(3,4)P2] emerging as an actor independent of PIP3, its exact signaling role remains poorly understood and the precise dynamics of PI(3,4)P2 and PIP3 upon receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) stimulation are still inadequately investigated. In this study, we employed bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) sensors to monitor plasma membrane phosphoinositide (PIP) dynamics in HEK293-derived and HeLa cells following stimulation with epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin. Our findings reveal significant differences in PIP regulation: the increase in PI(3,4)P2 compared to PIP3 was larger with EGF stimulation relative to insulin. Using siRNA-mediated knockdown, we identified SH2-domain containing inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase 2 (SHIP2) as the key enzyme responsible for PI(3,4)P2 production in the EGF pathway, which was further supported by a bioinformatics analysis. Moreover, we detected increased phosphorylation at two tyrosine sites in SHIP2 upon EGF stimulation which was shown to be dependent on PI3K activation and PLC-induced calcium signal. These findings help refine our understanding of receptor-specific phosphoinositide dynamics and the enzymatic machinery involved as well as their potential influence on downstream cellular responses.

SLAMF receptors: key regulators of tumor progression and emerging targets for cancer immunotherapy

The signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family (SLAMF) consists of nine distinct cell surface receptors predominantly expressed on immune cells, each characterized by unique structural features, expression patterns, downstream signaling pathways, and biological functions. These receptors play critical roles in modulating various immune cell activities within the tumor microenvironment, thereby shaping immune responses in cancer. Although accumulating evidence demonstrates their value as therapeutic targets for developing cancer immunotherapies, the full spectrum of SLAMF receptors in cancer remains incompletely understood. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular characteristics and immunomodulatory functions of each SLAMF receptor, underscoring their pivotal contributions to cancer progression. Furthermore, we also highlight their potential as promising targets for advancing cancer immunotherapeutic strategies. Finally, we discuss clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of SLAMF receptor-based immunotherapies, emphasizing their translational relevance in the development of cancer treatments.

SHIP-1 Differentially Regulates IgE-Induced IL-10 and Antiviral Responses in Human Monocytes

IgE-mediated stimulation of monocytes regulates multiple cellular functions including cellular maturation, cytokine release, antiviral responses, and T-cell differentiation. Expression of the high-affinity IgE receptor, FcεRI, is closely linked to serum IgE levels and atopic disease. The signaling molecules regulating FcεRI effector functions have been well studied in mast cells and basophils; however, less is known about the signaling and regulatory mechanisms in monocytes. This study sought to identify regulators of IgE-mediated cytokine release in human monocytes. SHIP-1 was identified as a negative regulator of IgE-induced IL-10 production. It was also determined that IgE-mediated stimulation and SHIP-1 inhibition decreased antiviral IP-10 production after liposomal poly(I:C) stimulation, indicating differential regulation by SHIP-1 in IgE-driven and antiviral response pathways. SHIP-1 and NF-κB were activated following IgE-mediated stimulation of monocytes, and NF-κB activation was related to both SHIP-1 and FcεRIα cellular expression levels. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify a role for SHIP-1 in regulating IgE-mediated and antiviral responses in human monocytes. Given the importance of monocytes in inflammation and immune responses, a better understanding of the signaling and regulatory mechanisms downstream of the FcεRI receptor could lead to new therapeutic targets in allergic disease.

SHIP-1 differentially regulates IgE-induced IL-10 and antiviral responses in human monocytes

IgE-mediated stimulation of monocytes regulates multiple cellular functions including cellular maturation, cytokine release, antiviral responses, and T cell priming and differentiation. The high affinity IgE receptor, FcεRI, is closely linked to serum IgE levels and atopic disease. The signaling molecules which regulate effector functions of this receptor have been well studied in mast cells and basophils, however, less is known about the signaling components, regulatory molecules, and mechanisms downstream of receptor activation in monocytes. This study sought to identify regulators of IgE-mediated cytokine release in human monocytes. SHIP-1 was identified as a negative regulator of IgE-induced IL-10 production. It was also determined that IgE-mediated stimulation and SHIP-1 inhibition decreased antiviral IP-10 production after liposomal poly(I:C) stimulation, indicating differential regulation by SHIP-1 in IgE-driven and antiviral response pathways. Both SHIP-1 and NF-κB were activated following IgE-mediated stimulation of primary monocytes, and NF-κB activation was related to both SHIP-1 and FcεRIα expression levels in monocytes. To our knowledge this is the first study to identify a role for SHIP-1 in regulating IgE-driven responses and antiviral responses in human monocytes. Given the importance of monocytes in inflammation and immune responses, a better understanding of the signaling and regulatory mechanisms downstream of FcεRI receptor could lead to new therapeutic targets in allergic disease.

Regulation of immune cell signaling by SHIP1: A phosphatase, scaffold protein, and potential therapeutic target

The phosphoinositide phosphatase SHIP is a critical regulator of immune cell activation. Despite considerable study, the mechanisms controlling SHIP activity to ensure balanced cell activation remain incompletely understood. SHIP dampens BCR signaling in part through its association with the inhibitory coreceptor Fc gamma receptor IIB, and serves as an effector for other inhibitory receptors in various immune cell types. The established paradigm emphasizes SHIP's inhibitory receptor-dependent function in regulating phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling by dephosphorylating the phosphoinositide PI(3,4,5)P₃ ; however, substantial evidence indicates that SHIP can be activated independently of inhibitory receptors and can function as an intrinsic brake on activation signaling. Here, we integrate historical and recent reports addressing the regulation and function of SHIP in immune cells, which together indicate that SHIP acts as a multifunctional protein controlled by multiple regulatory inputs, and influences downstream signaling via both phosphatase-dependent and -independent means. We further summarize accumulated evidence regarding the functions of SHIP in B cells, T cells, NK cells, dendritic cells, mast cells, and macrophages, and data suggesting defective expression or activity of SHIP in autoimmune and malignant disorders. Lastly, we discuss the biological activities, therapeutic promise, and limitations of small molecule modulators of SHIP enzymatic activity.

Hydrogen Peroxide Triggers a Dual Signaling Axis To Selectively Suppress Activated Human T Lymphocyte Migration

H₂O₂ is an early danger cue required for innate immune cell recruitment to wounds. To date, little is known about whether H₂O₂ is required for the migration of human adaptive immune cells to sites of inflammation. However, oxidative stress is known to impair T cell activity, induce actin stiffness, and inhibit cell polarization. In this study, we show that low oxidative concentrations of H₂O₂ also impede chemokinesis and chemotaxis of previously activated human T cells to CXCL11, but not CXCL10 or CXCL12. We show that this deficiency in migration is due to a reduction in inflammatory chemokine receptor CXCR3 surface expression and cellular activation of lipid phosphatase SHIP-1. We demonstrate that H₂O₂ acts through an Src kinase to activate a negative regulator of PI3K signaling, SHIP-1 via phosphorylation, providing a molecular mechanism for H₂O₂-induced chemotaxis deficiency. We hypothesize that although H₂O₂ serves as an early recruitment trigger for innate immune cells, it appears to operate as an inhibitor of T lymphocyte immune adaptive responses that are not required until later in the repair process.

Trans-inhibition of activation and proliferation signals by Fc receptors in mast cells and basophils

Allergic and autoimmune inflammation are associated with the activation of mast cells and basophils by antibodies against allergens or auto-antigens, respectively. Both cell types express several receptors for the Fc portion of antibodies, the engagement of which by antigen-antibody complexes controls their responses. When aggregated on the plasma membrane, high-affinity immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptors (FcεRI) and low-affinity IgG receptors (FcγRIIIA in mice, FcγRIIA in humans) induce these cells to release and secrete proinflammatory mediators, chemokines, and cytokines that account for clinical symptoms. When coaggregated with activating receptors on the same cells, other low-affinity IgG receptors (FcγRIIB in both species) inhibit mast cell and basophil activation. We found that FcγRIIB inhibited not only signals triggered by activating receptors with which they were coengaged (cis-inhibition), but also signals triggered by receptors engaged independently (trans-inhibition). Trans-inhibition acted upon the FcεRI-dependent activation of mouse mast cells, mouse basophils, and human basophils, and upon growth factor receptor (Kit)-dependent normal mouse mast cell proliferation, as well as the constitutive in vitro proliferation and the in vivo growth of oncogene (v-Abl)-transformed mastocytoma cells. Trans-inhibition was induced by receptors, whether inhibitory (FcγRIIB) or activating (FcεRI), which recruited the lipid phosphatase SHIP1. By hydrolyzing PI(3,4,5)P₃, SHIP1 induced a global unresponsiveness that affected biological responses triggered by receptors that use phosphoinositide 3-kinase to signal. These data suggest that trans-inhibition controls numerous physiological and pathological processes, and that it may be used as a therapeutic tool in inflammation, especially but not exclusively, in allergy and autoimmunity.

The Dok-3/Grb2 adaptor module promotes inducible association of the lipid phosphatase SHIP with the BCR in a coreceptor-independent manner

The SH2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP) plays a key role in preventing autoimmune phenomena by limiting antigen-mediated B cell activation. SHIP function is thought to require the dual engagement of the BCR and negative regulatory coreceptors as only the latter appear capable of recruiting SHIP from the cytosol to the plasma membrane by the virtue of phosphorylated immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs. Here, we demonstrate a coreceptor-independent membrane recruitment and function of SHIP in B cells. In the absence of coreceptor ligation, SHIP translocates to sites of BCR activation through a concerted action of the protein adaptor unit Dok-3/Grb2 and phosphorylated BCR signaling components. Our data reveal auto-inhibitory SHIP activation by the activated BCR and suggest an unexpected negative-regulatory capacity of immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs in Igα and Igβ.

FcγRIIB-Independent Mechanisms Controlling Membrane Localization of the Inhibitory Phosphatase SHIP in Human B Cells

SHIP is an important regulator of immune cell signaling that functions to dephosphorylate the phosphoinositide phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate at the plasma membrane and mediate protein-protein interactions. One established paradigm for SHIP activation involves its recruitment to the phospho-ITIM motif of the inhibitory receptor FcγRIIB. Although SHIP is essential for the inhibitory function of FcγRIIB, it also has critical modulating functions in signaling initiated from activating immunoreceptors such as B cell Ag receptor. In this study, we found that SHIP is indistinguishably recruited to the plasma membrane after BCR stimulation with or without FcγRIIB coligation in human cell lines and primary cells. Interestingly, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analysis reveals differential mobility of SHIP-enhanced GFP depending on the mode of stimulation, suggesting that although BCR and FcγRIIB can both recruit SHIP, this occurs via distinct molecular complexes. Mutagenesis of a SHIP-enhanced GFP fusion protein reveals that the SHIP-Src homology 2 domain is essential in both cases whereas the C terminus is required for recruitment via BCR stimulation, but is less important with FcγRIIB coligation. Experiments with pharmacological inhibitors reveal that Syk activity is required for optimal stimulation-induced membrane localization of SHIP, whereas neither PI3K or Src kinase activity is essential. BCR-induced association of SHIP with binding partner Shc1 is dependent on Syk, as is tyrosine phosphorylation of both partners. Our results indicate that FcγRIIB is not uniquely able to promote membrane recruitment of SHIP, but rather modulates its function via formation of distinct signaling complexes. Membrane recruitment of SHIP via Syk-dependent mechanisms may be an important factor modulating immunoreceptor signaling.

LNK/SH2B3 Loss of Function Promotes Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis

RATIONALE

Human genome-wide association studies have revealed novel genetic loci that are associated with coronary heart disease. One such locus resides in LNK/SH2B3, which in mice is expressed in hematopoietic cells and suppresses thrombopoietin signaling via its receptor myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene. However, the mechanisms underlying the association of LNK single-nucleotide polymorphisms with coronary heart disease are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the functional effects of LNK single-nucleotide polymorphisms and explore the mechanisms whereby LNK loss of function impacts atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using human cord blood, we show that the common TT risk genotype (R262W) of LNK is associated with expansion of hematopoietic stem cells and enhanced megakaryopoiesis, demonstrating reduced LNK function and increased myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene signaling. In mice, hematopoietic Lnk deficiency leads to accelerated arterial thrombosis and atherosclerosis, but only in the setting of hypercholesterolemia. Hypercholesterolemia acts synergistically with LNK deficiency to increase interleukin 3/granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor signaling in bone marrow myeloid progenitors, whereas in platelets cholesterol loading combines with Lnk deficiency to increase activation. Platelet LNK deficiency increases myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene signaling and AKT activation, whereas cholesterol loading decreases SHIP-1 phosphorylation, acting convergently to increase AKT and platelet activation. Together with increased myelopoiesis, platelet activation promotes prothrombotic and proatherogenic platelet/leukocyte aggregate formation.

CONCLUSIONS

LNK (R262W) is a loss-of-function variant that promotes thrombopoietin/myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene signaling and platelet and leukocyte production. In mice, LNK deficiency is associated with both increased platelet production and activation. Hypercholesterolemia acts in platelets and hematopoietic progenitors to exacerbate thrombosis and atherosclerosis associated with LNK deficiency.

Molecular control of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 signaling in neutrophils

Neutrophils play critical roles in innate immunity and host defense. However, excessive neutrophil accumulation or hyper-responsiveness of neutrophils can be detrimental to the host system. Thus, the response of neutrophils to inflammatory stimuli needs to be tightly controlled. Many cellular processes in neutrophils are mediated by localized formation of an inositol phospholipid, phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3), at the plasma membrane. The PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 signaling pathway is negatively regulated by lipid phosphatases and inositol phosphates, which consequently play a critical role in controlling neutrophil function and would be expected to act as ideal therapeutic targets for enhancing or suppressing innate immune responses. Here, we comprehensively review current understanding about the action of lipid phosphatases and inositol phosphates in the control of neutrophil function in infection and inflammation.

Phosphoinositides: tiny lipids with giant impact on cell regulation

Phosphoinositides (PIs) make up only a small fraction of cellular phospholipids, yet they control almost all aspects of a cell's life and death. These lipids gained tremendous research interest as plasma membrane signaling molecules when discovered in the 1970s and 1980s. Research in the last 15 years has added a wide range of biological processes regulated by PIs, turning these lipids into one of the most universal signaling entities in eukaryotic cells. PIs control organelle biology by regulating vesicular trafficking, but they also modulate lipid distribution and metabolism via their close relationship with lipid transfer proteins. PIs regulate ion channels, pumps, and transporters and control both endocytic and exocytic processes. The nuclear phosphoinositides have grown from being an epiphenomenon to a research area of its own. As expected from such pleiotropic regulators, derangements of phosphoinositide metabolism are responsible for a number of human diseases ranging from rare genetic disorders to the most common ones such as cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Moreover, it is increasingly evident that a number of infectious agents hijack the PI regulatory systems of host cells for their intracellular movements, replication, and assembly. As a result, PI converting enzymes began to be noticed by pharmaceutical companies as potential therapeutic targets. This review is an attempt to give an overview of this enormous research field focusing on major developments in diverse areas of basic science linked to cellular physiology and disease.

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway in normal and malignant B cells: activation mechanisms, regulation and impact on cellular functions

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is a central signal transduction axis controlling normal B cell homeostasis and activation in humoral immunity. The p110δ PI3K catalytic subunit has emerged as a critical mediator of multiple B cell functions. The activity of this pathway is regulated at multiple levels, with inositol phosphatases PTEN and SHIP both playing critical roles. When deregulated, the PI3K pathway can contribute to B cell malignancies and autoantibody production. This review summarizes current knowledge on key mechanisms that activate and regulate the PI3K pathway and influence normal B cell functional responses including the development of B cell subsets, antigen presentation, immunoglobulin isotype switch, germinal center responses, and maintenance of B cell anergy. We also discuss PI3K pathway alterations reported in select B cell malignancies and highlight studies indicating the functional significance of this pathway in malignant B cell survival and growth within tissue microenvironments. Finally, we comment on early clinical trial results, which support PI3K inhibition as a promising treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

The inositol 5-phosphatase SHIP-1 and adaptors Dok-1 and 2 play central roles in CD4-mediated inhibitory signaling

CD4 functions to enhance the sensitivity of T cells to antigenic peptide/MHC class II. However, if aggregated in isolation, e.g. in the absence of T cell receptor (TCR), CD4 can transduce yet undefined signals that lead to T cell unresponsiveness to antigen and apoptosis. In Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) disease, CD4(+) T cell loss can result from gp120-induced CD4 signaling in uninfected cells. We show here that CD4 aggregation leads to Lck-dependent phosphorylation of the RasGAP adaptors Downstream of kinase-1/2 (Dok-1/2) and the inositol 5-phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1) and association of the two molecules. Studies using SHIP-1 shRNA, knockout mice and decoy inhibitors further indicate that CD4-mediated inhibition of TCR-mediated T cell activation is SHIP-1 and Dok-1/2 dependent, and involves SHIP-1 hydrolysis of Phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosophate (PI(3,4,5)P3) needed for TCR signaling. Our studies provide evidence for a novel mechanism by which ill-timed CD4-mediated signals activated by ligands such as HIV-1 gp120 lead to disarmament of the immune system.

Phosphoinositide lipid phosphatase SHIP1 and PTEN coordinate to regulate cell migration and adhesion

SHIP1 regulates PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production in response to cell adhesion. Loss of SHIP1 leads to elevated PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 and Akt activation upon adhesion. SHIP1^−/− neutrophils lose polarity upon cell adhesion. They are extremely adherent, which impairs chemotaxis. Chemotaxis in SHIP1^−/− neutrophils can be rescued by reducing cell adhesion.

The second messenger phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)P₃ (PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃) is formed by stimulation of various receptors, including G protein–coupled receptors and integrins. The lipid phosphatases PTEN and SHIP1 are critical in regulating the level of PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃ during chemotaxis. Observations that loss of PTEN had minor and loss of SHIP1 resulted in a severe chemotaxis defect in neutrophils led to the belief that SHIP1 rather than PTEN acts as a predominant phospholipid phosphatase in establishing a PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃ compass. In this study, we show that SHIP1 regulates PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃ production in response to cell adhesion and plays a limited role when cells are in suspension. SHIP1^−/− neutrophils lose their polarity upon cell adhesion and are extremely adherent, which impairs chemotaxis. However, chemo­taxis can be restored by reducing adhesion. Loss of SHIP1 elevates Akt activation following cell adhesion due to increased PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃ production. From our observations, we conclude that SHIP1 prevents formation of top-down PtdIns(3,4,5)P₃ polarity to facilitate proper cell attachment and detachment during chemotaxis.

Murine pancreatic adenocarcinoma dampens SHIP-1 expression and alters MDSC homeostasis and function

Background

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, with tumor-induced myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) contributing to its pathogenesis and ineffective therapies. In response to cytokine/chemokine receptor activation, src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5′-phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1) influences phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) signaling events, which regulate immunohomeostasis. We hypothesize that factors from murine pancreatic cancer cells cause the down-regulation of SHIP-1 expression, which may potentially contribute to MDSC expansion, and the suppression of CD8⁺ T cell immune responses. Therefore, we sought to determine the role of SHIP-1 in solid tumor progression, such as murine pancreatic cancer.

Methodology and Principal Findings

Immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice were inoculated with either murine Panc02 cells (tumor-bearing [TB] mice) or Phosphate Buffer Saline (PBS) (control mice). Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) analysis of supernatants of cultured Panc02 detected pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-10 and MCP-1. TB mice showed a significant increase in serum levels of pro-inflammatory factors IL-6 and MCP-1 measured by CBA. qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses revealed the in vivo down-regulation of SHIP-1 expression in splenocytes from TB mice. Western blot analyses also detected reduced SHIP-1 activity, increased AKT-1 and BAD hyper-phosphorylation and up-regulation of BCL-2 expression in splenocytes from TB mice. In vitro, qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses detected reduced SHIP-1 mRNA and protein expression in control splenocytes co-cultured with Panc02 cells. Flow cytometry results showed significant expansion of MDSC in peripheral blood and splenocytes from TB mice. AutoMACS sorted TB MDSC exhibited hyper-phosphorylation of AKT-1 and over-expression of BCL-2 detected by western blot analysis. TB MDSC significantly suppressed antigen-specific CD8⁺ T cell immune responses in vitro.

Conclusion/Significance

SHIP-1 may regulate immune development that impacts MDSC expansion and function, contributing to pancreatic tumor progression. Thus, SHIP-1 can be a potential therapeutic target to help restore immunohomeostasis and improve therapeutic responses in patients with pancreatic cancer.

CIN85 interacting proteins in B cells-specific role for SHIP-1

The Cbl-interacting 85-kDa protein (CIN85) plays an important role as a negative regulator of signaling pathways induced by receptor tyrosine kinases. By assembling multiprotein complexes this versatile adaptor enhances receptor tyrosine kinase-activated clathrin-mediated endocytosis and reduces phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-induced phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate production. Here we report the expression of CIN85 in primary splenic B lymphocytes and the B-lymphoma cell lines WEHI 231 and Ba/F3. Cross-linking of the B cell antigen receptor resulted in an increased association of CIN85 with the ubiquitin ligase Cbl. Through a systematic pull-down proteomics approach we identified 51 proteins that interact with CIN85 in B cells, including proteins not shown previously to be CIN85-associated. Among these proteins, the SH2-containing inositol phosphatase 1 (SHIP-1) co-precipitated with both the full-length CIN85 and each of its three SH3 domains. We also showed that this association is constitutive and depends on a region of 79 amino acids near the carboxyl terminus of SHIP-1, a region rich in potential SH3 domain binding sites. Because SHIP-1 is a major negative regulator of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase pathway in lymphocytes, we hypothesize that the interaction between SHIP-1 and CIN85 might synergistically facilitate the down-regulation of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate levels.

Phospholipase C-β3 regulates FcɛRI-mediated mast cell activation by recruiting the protein phosphatase SHP-1

Mast cells are major effectors in high-affinity IgE receptor (FcɛRI)-dependent allergic reactions. Here we show that phospholipase C (PLC)-β3 is crucial for FcɛRI-mediated mast cell activation. Plcb3(-/-) mice showed blunted FcɛRI-dependent late-phase, but not acute, anaphylactic responses and airway inflammation. Accordingly, FcɛRI stimulation of Plcb3(-/-) mast cells exhibited reduced cytokine production but normal degranulation. Reduced cytokine production in Plcb3(-/-) cells could be accounted for by increased activity of the negative regulatory Src family kinase Lyn and reduced activities of the positive regulatory protein kinases MAPKs. Mechanistically, PLC-β3 constitutively interacts with FcɛRI, Lyn, and SHP-1 (protein phosphatase). SHP-1 probably recognizes its substrates Lyn and MAPKs via the recently described kinase tyrosine-based inhibitory motif, KTIM. Consistent with PLC-β3- and SHP-1-mediated repression of Lyn activity by dephosphorylation at Tyr396, FcɛRI-mediated phenotypes were similar in Plcb3(-/-) and SHP-1 mutant mast cells. Thus, we have defined a PLC-β3- and SHP-1-mediated signaling pathway for FcɛRI-mediated cytokine production.

Regulation of tyrosine phosphorylation in macrophage phagocytosis and chemotaxis

Macrophages display a large variety of surface receptors that are critical for their normal cellular functions in host defense, including finding sites of infection (chemotaxis) and removing foreign particles (phagocytosis). However, inappropriate regulation of these processes can lead to human diseases. Many of these receptors utilize tyrosine phosphorylation cascades to initiate and terminate signals leading to cell migration and clearance of infection. Actin remodeling dominates these processes and many regulators have been identified. This review focuses on how tyrosine kinases and phosphatases regulate actin dynamics leading to macrophage chemotaxis and phagocytosis.

Enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities of SHIP-1 in signal transduction and cancer

PI3K cascade is a central signaling pathway regulating cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, and survival. Tight regulation of the PI3K signaling pathway is necessary to avoid aberrant cell proliferation and cancer development. Together with SHIP-1, the inositol phosphatases PTEN and SHIP-2 are the gatekeepers of this pathway. In this review, we will focus on SHIP-1 functions. Negative regulation of immune cell activation by SHIP-1 is well characterized. Besides its catalytic activity, SHIP-1 also displays non-enzymatic activity playing role in several immune pathways. Indeed, SHIP-1 exhibits several domains that mediate protein-protein interaction. This review emphasizes the negative regulation of immune cell activation by SHIP-1 that is mediated by its protein-protein interaction.

Insights into structure and function of SHIP2-SH2: homology modeling, docking, and molecular dynamics study

SRC homology 2 (SH2)-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase protein (SHIP2) is a potential target for type 2 diabetes. Its ability to dephosphorylate the lipid messenger phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3], important for insulin signaling, makes it an important target against type 2 diabetes. The insulin-induced SHIP2 interaction with Shc is very important for the membrane localization and functioning of SHIP2. There is a bidentate relationship between the two proteins where two domains each from SHIP2 and Shc are involved in mutual binding. However in the present study, the SHIP2-SH2 domain binding with the phosphorylated tyrosine 317 on the collagen-homology (CH) domain of Shc, has been studied due to the indispensability of this interaction in SHIP2 localization. In the absence of the crystal structure of SHIP2-SH2, its structural model was developed followed by tracking its molecular interactions with Shc through molecular docking and dynamics studies. This study revealed much about the structural interactions between the SHIP2-SH2 and Shc-CH. Finally, docking study of a nonpeptide inhibitor into the SHIP2-SH2 domain further confirmed the structural interactions involved in ligand binding and also proposed the inhibitor as a major starting point against SHIP2-SH2 inhibition. The insights gained from the current study should prove useful in the design of more potent inhibitors against type 2 diabetes.

Inhibitor and activator: dual functions for SHIP in immunity and cancer

SHIP1 is at the nexus of intracellular signaling pathways in immune cells that mediate bone marrow (BM) graft rejection, production of inflammatory and immunosuppressive cytokines, immunoregulatory cell formation, the BM niche that supports development of the immune system, and immune cancers. This review summarizes how SHIP participates in normal immune physiology or the pathologies that result when SHIP is mutated. This review also proposes that SHIP can have either inhibitory or activating roles in cell signaling that are determined by whether signaling pathways distal to PI3K are promoted by SHIP's substrate (PI(3,4,5)P(3) ) or its product (PI(3,4)P(2) ). This review also proposes the "two PIP hypothesis" that postulates that both SHIP's product and its substrate are necessary for a cancer cell to achieve and sustain a malignant state. Finally, due to the recent discovery of small molecule antagonists and agonists for SHIP, this review discusses potential therapeutic settings where chemical modulation of SHIP might be of benefit.

The PH domain adaptor protein Bam32/DAPP1 functions in mast cells to restrain FcɛRI-induced calcium flux and granule release

Mast cell activation triggered by IgE binding to its high affinity receptor FcɛRI is highly dependent on signaling via phosphoinositde 3-kinases (PI3K). The phosphoinositide phosphatase SHIP controls mast cell activation by regulating accumulation of D3 phosphoinositide second messengers generated by PI3K. The PH domain adaptor protein Bam32/DAPP1 binds specifically to the D3 phosphoinositides PI(3,4,5)P3 and PI(3,4)P2 (the substrate and product of SHIP respectively). In B cells, Bam32 is phosphorylated by Src family kinases including Lyn, and is required for antigen receptor-induced activation; however the function of Bam32 in mast cells is unknown. Here we report that Bam32 is expressed in mast cells, is recruited to the plasma membrane upon stimulation and functions in FcɛRI signaling. Examination of bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) isolated from Bam32-deficient mice revealed enhanced FcɛRI-induced degranulation and IL-6 production, indicating that Bam32 may function to restrain signaling via FcɛRI. These enhanced degranulation responses were PI3K-dependent, as indicated by blockade with PI3K inhibitors wortmannin or IC87114. While Bam32-deficient BMMC showed reduced FcɛRI-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases ERK and JNK, FcɛRI-induced calcium flux and phosphorylation of PLCγ1 and Akt were increased. Bam32-deficient BMMC showed significantly reduced phosphorylation of Lyn and SHIP, indicating reduced activity of inhibitory signaling pathways. Together our results identify Bam32 as a novel regulator of mast cell activation, potentially functioning in membrane-proximal integration of positive and negative signaling pathways.

A key role for the phosphorylation of Ser440 by the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase in regulating the activity of the Src homology 2 domain-containing Inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP1)

The Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) dephosphorylates phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate to phophatidylinositol 3,4-bisphosphate in hematopoietic cells to regulate multiple cell signaling pathways. SHIP1 can be phosphorylated by the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), resulting in an increase in SHIP1 activity (Zhang, J., Walk, S. F., Ravichandran, K. S., and Garrison, J. C. (2009) J. Biol. Chem. 284, 20070-20078). Using a combination of approaches, we identified the serine residue regulating SHIP1 activity. After mass spectrometric identification of 17 serine and threonine residues on SHIP1 as being phosphorylated by PKA in vitro, studies with truncation mutants of SHIP1 narrowed the phosphorylation site to the catalytic region between residues 400 and 866. Of the two candidate phosphorylation sites located in this region (Ser(440) and Ser(774)), only mutation of Ser(440) to Ala abolished the ability of PKA to phosphorylate the purified, catalytic domain of SHIP1 (residues 401-866). Mutation of Ser(440) to Ala in full-length SHIP1 abrogated the ability of PKA to increase the activity of SHIP1 in mammalian cells. Using flow cytometry, we found that the PKA activator, Sp-adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate triethylammonium salt hydrate (Sp-cAMPS) blunted the phosphorylation of Akt downstream of B cell antigen receptor engagement in SHIP1-null DT40 B lymphocytes expressing native mouse SHIP1. The inhibitory effect of Sp-cAMPS was absent in cells expressing the S440A mutant of SHIP1. These results suggest that activation of SHIP1 by PKA via phosphorylation on Ser(440) is an important regulatory event in hematopoietic cells.

Absence of SHIP-1 results in constitutive phosphorylation of tank-binding kinase 1 and enhanced TLR3-dependent IFN-beta production

Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, result from a loss of tolerance to self-antigens and immune-mediated injury precipitated by the overproduction of type I IFN and inflammatory cytokines. We have identified the inositol 5' phosphatase SHIP-1 as a negative regulator of TLR3-induced type I IFN production. SHIP-1-deficient macrophages display enhanced TLR-induced IFN-beta production, and overexpression of SHIP-1 negatively regulates the ability of TLR3 and its adaptor, Toll/IL-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-beta, to induce IFN-beta promoter activity, indicating that SHIP-1 negatively regulates TLR-induced IFN-beta production. Further dissection of the IFN-beta pathway implicates TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) as the target for SHIP-1. Critically, in the absence of SHIP-1, TBK1 appears to be hyperphosphorylated both in unstimulated cells and following TLR3 stimulation. In addition, TBK1 appears to be constitutively associated with Toll/IL-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-beta and TNFR-associated factor 3 in SHIP-1 deficient cells, whereas in wild-type cells this association is inducible following TLR3 stimulation. In support of a role for SHIP-1 in regulating complex formation, confocal microscopy demonstrates that TBK1 distribution in the cell is significantly altered in SHIP-1-deficient cells, with more prominent endosomal staining observed, compared with wild-type controls. Taken together, our results point to SHIP-1 as a critical negative regulator of IFN-beta production downstream of TLR3 through the regulation of TBK1 localization and activity.

A minor catalytic activity of Src family kinases is sufficient for maximal activation of mast cells via the high-affinity IgE receptor

Src family kinases (SFK) are critical for initiating and regulating the response of mast cells activated by engagement of the high-affinity IgE receptor, FcepsilonRI. Lyn is the predominant SFK in mast cells and has been ascribed both positive and negative roles in regulating mast cell activation. We analyzed the mast cell phenotype of WeeB, a recently described mouse mutant that expresses a Lyn protein with profoundly reduced catalytic activity. Surprisingly, we found that this residual activity is sufficient for wild-type levels of cytokine production and degranulation in bone marrow-derived mast cells after low-intensity stimulation with anti-IgE. High-intensity stimulation of lyn(-/-) bone marrow-derived mast cells with highly multivalent Ag resulted in enhanced cytokine production as previously reported, and WeeB cells displayed an intermediate phenotype. Under this latter condition, SFK inhibition using PP2 increased cytokine production in wild-type and WeeB but not lyn(-/-) cells, resulting in substantially higher levels in the PP2-treated WeeB than in lyn(-/-) cells. Restoration of wild-type and WeeB lyn alleles in lyn(-/-) cells generated activation phenotypes similar to those in nontransduced wild-type and WeeB cells, respectively, whereas a kinase-dead allele resulted in a phenotype similar to that of empty-vector-transduced cells. These data indicate that inhibition of Lyn and/or SFK activity can result in higher levels of mast cell activation than simple deletion of lyn and that only near-complete inhibition of Lyn can impair its positive regulatory functions. Furthermore, the data suggest that both positive and negative regulatory functions of Lyn are predominantly carried out by its catalytic activity and not an adaptor function.

Lyn, PKC-delta, SHIP-1 interactions regulate GPVI-mediated platelet-dense granule secretion

Protein kinase C-delta (PKC-delta) is expressed in platelets and activated downstream of protease-activated receptors (PARs) and glycoprotein VI (GPVI) receptors. We have previously shown that PKC-delta positively regulates PAR-mediated dense granule secretion, whereas it negatively regulates GPVI-mediated dense granule secretion. We further investigated the mechanism of such differential regulation of dense granule release by PKC-delta in platelets. SH2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1) is phosphorylated on Y1020, a marker for its activation, upon stimulation of human platelets with PAR agonists SFLLRN and AYPGKF or GPVI agonist convulxin. GPVI-mediated SHIP-1 phosphorylation occurred rapidly at 15 seconds, whereas PAR-mediated phosphorylation was delayed, occurring at 1 minute. Lyn and SHIP-1, but not SHIP-2 or Shc, preferentially associated with PKC-delta on stimulation of platelets with a GPVI agonist, but not with a PAR agonist. In PKC-delta-null murine platelets, convulxin-induced SHIP-1 phosphorylation was inhibited. Furthermore, in Lyn null murine platelets, GPVI-mediated phosphorylations on Y-1020 of SHIP-1 and Y311 of PKC-delta were inhibited. In murine platelets lacking Lyn or SHIP-1, GPVI-mediated dense granule secretions are potentiated, whereas PAR-mediated dense granule secretions are inhibited. Therefore, we conclude that Lyn-mediated phosphorylations of PKC-delta and SHIP-1 and their associations negatively regulate GPVI-mediated dense granule secretion in platelets.

Mammalian phosphoinositide kinases and phosphatases

Phosphoinositides are lipids that are present in the cytoplasmic leaflet of a cell's plasma and internal membranes and play pivotal roles in the regulation of a wide variety of cellular processes. Phosphoinositides are molecularly diverse due to variable phosphorylation of the hydroxyl groups of their inositol rings. The rapid and reversible configuration of the seven known phosphoinositide species is controlled by a battery of phosphoinositide kinases and phosphoinositide phosphatases, which are thus critical for phosphoinositide isomer-specific localization and functions. Significantly, a given phosphoinositide generated by different isozymes of these phosphoinositide kinases and phosphatases can have different biological effects. In mammals, close to 50 genes encode the phosphoinositide kinases and phosphoinositide phosphatases that regulate phosphoinositide metabolism and thus allow cells to respond rapidly and effectively to ever-changing environmental cues. Understanding the distinct and overlapping functions of these phosphoinositide-metabolizing enzymes is important for our knowledge of both normal human physiology and the growing list of human diseases whose etiologies involve these proteins. This review summarizes the structural and biological properties of all the known mammalian phosphoinositide kinases and phosphoinositide phosphatases, as well as their associations with human disorders.

C-reactive protein inhibits insulin activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase via the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif of FcgammaRIIB and SHIP-1

Insulin promotes the cardiovascular protective functions of the endothelium including NO production by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), which it stimulates via Akt kinase which phosphorylates eNOS Ser1179. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant that is positively correlated with cardiovascular disease risk in patients with type 2 diabetes. We previously showed that CRP inhibits eNOS activation by insulin by blunting Ser1179 phosphorylation. We now elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. We first show in mice that CRP inhibits insulin-induced eNOS phosphorylation, indicating that these processes are operative in vivo. In endothelial cells we find that CRP attenuates insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation, and CRP antagonism of eNOS is negated by expression of constitutively active Akt; the inhibitory effect of CRP on Akt is also observed in vivo. A requirement for the IgG receptor FcgammaRIIB was demonstrated in vitro using blocking antibody, and reconstitution experiments with wild-type and mutant FcgammaRIIB in NIH3T3IR cells revealed that these processes require the ITIM (immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif) of the receptor. Furthermore, we find that endothelium express SHIP-1 (Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase 1), that CRP induces SHIP-1 stimulatory phosphorylation in endothelium in culture and in vivo, and that SHIP-1 knockdown by small interfering RNA prevents CRP antagonism of insulin-induced eNOS activation. Thus, CRP inhibits eNOS stimulation by insulin via FcgammaRIIB and its ITIM, SHIP-1 activation, and resulting blunted activation of Akt. These findings provide mechanistic linkage among CRP, impaired insulin signaling in endothelium, and greater cardiovascular disease risk in type 2 diabetes.

Regulation of the Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase (SHIP1) by the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase

Many agents that activate hematopoietic cells use phos pha tidyl ino si tol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns 3,4,5-P(3)) to initiate signaling cascades. The SH2 domain-containing inositol 5' phosphatase, SHIP1, regulates hematopoietic cell function by opposing the action of phos pha tidyl ino si tol 3-kinase and reducing the levels of PtdIns 3,4,5-P(3). Activation of the cyclic AMP-de pend ent protein kinase (PKA) also opposes many of the pro-inflammatory responses of hematopoietic cells. We tested to see whether the activity of SHIP1 was regulated via phos pho ryl a tion with PKA. We prepared pure recombinant SHIP1 from HEK-293 cells and found it can be rapidly phos pho ryl a ted by PKA to a stoichiometry of 0.6 mol of PO(4)/mol of SHIP1. In (32)P-labeled HEK-293 cells transfected with SHIP1, stimulation with Sp-adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate triethylammonium salt hydrate (Sp-cAMPS) or activation of the beta-adrenergic receptor increased the phos pho ryl a tion state of SHIP1. Inhibition of protein phosphatase activity with okadaic acid also increased the phos pho ryl a tion of SHIP1. Phosphorylation of SHIP1 in vitro or in cells by PKA increased the 5' phosphatase activity of SHIP1 by 2-3-fold. Elevation of Ca(2+) in DT40 cells in response to B cell receptor cross-linking, an indicator of PtdIns 3,4,5-P(3) levels, was markedly blunted by pretreatment with Sp-cAMPS. This effect was absent in SHIP(-/-) DT40 cells showing that the effect of Sp-cAMPS in DT40 cells is SHIP1-de pend ent. Sp-cAMPS also blunted the ability of the B cell receptor to increase the phos pho ryl a tion of Akt in DT40 and A20 cells. Overall, activation of G protein-coupled receptors that raise cyclic AMP cause SHIP1 to be phosphorylated and stimulate its inositol phosphatase activity. These results outline a novel mechanism of SHIP1 regulation.

Functionality of the IgA Fc receptor (FcalphaR, CD89) is down-regulated by extensive engagement of FcepsilonRI

Besides mast cells and basophils, the high-affinity IgE Fc receptor (FcepsilonRI) is exclusively expressed on certain FcalphaR (IgA Fc receptor)-expressing immune cells such as neutrophils in allergic patients. Transfected rat basophilic leukemia cell line (RBL-2H3) co-expressing FcepsilonRI and FcalphaR was analyzed for effects of simultaneous receptor engagement by their specific antibodies on degranulation and signaling. Whereas supraoptimal FcepsilonRI engagement decreased degranulation, which is known as a bell-shaped dose-response curve, such inhibitory effect was not observed with FcalphaR engagement. However, simultaneous engagement of FcepsilonRI and FcalphaR showed that supraoptimal FcepsilonRI engagement down-regulates FcalphaR-mediated degranulation. This inhibition was associated with extensive phosphorylation of inositol polyphosphate 5'-phosphatase SHIP1 and FcepsilonRIbeta, and reversed by adding actin-depolymerizing drug, latrunculin B. The results suggest an endogenous mechanism by which FcalphaR functionality is down-regulated in an 'allergic environment' where FcepsilonRI is co-expressed and extensively cross-linked on FcalphaR-expressing effector cells.

Regulation of myeloproliferation and M2 macrophage programming in mice by Lyn/Hck, SHIP, and Stat5

The proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is finely regulated by extrinsic and intrinsic factors via various signaling pathways. Here we have shown that, similar to mice deficient in the lipid phosphatase SHIP, loss of 2 Src family kinases, Lyn and Hck, profoundly affects HSC differentiation, producing hematopoietic progenitors with increased proliferation, reduced apoptosis, growth factor-independent survival, and skewed differentiation toward M2 macrophages. This phenotype culminates in a Stat5-dependent myeloproliferative disease that is accompanied by M2 macrophage infiltration of the lung. Expression of a membrane-bound form of SHIP in HSCs lacking both Lyn and Hck restored normal hematopoiesis and prevented myeloproliferation. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested the involvement of autocrine and/or paracrine production of IL-3 and GM-CSF in the increased proliferation and myeloid differentiation of HSCs. Thus, this study has defined a myeloproliferative transformation-sensitive signaling pathway, composed of Lyn/Hck, SHIP, autocrine/paracrine cytokines, and Stat5, that regulates HSC differentiation and M2 macrophage programming.

The mast cell IgG receptors and their roles in tissue inflammation

Mast cells are effector cells of the innate immune system, but because they express Fc receptors (FcRs), they can be engaged in adaptive immunity by antibodies. Mast cell FcRs include immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgG receptors and, among these, activating and inhibitory receptors. The engagement of mast cell IgG receptors by immune complexes may or may not trigger cell activation, depending on the type of mast cell. The coengagement of IgG and IgE receptors results in inhibition of mast cell activation. The Src homology-2 domain-containing inositol 5-phosphatase-1 is a major effector of negative regulation. Biological responses of mast cells depend on the balance between positive and negative signals that are generated in FcR complexes. The contribution of human mast cell IgG receptors in allergies remains to be clarified. Increasing evidence indicates that mast cells play critical roles in IgG-dependent tissue-specific autoimmune diseases. Convincing evidence was obtained in murine models of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, bullous pemphigoid, and glomerulonephritis. In these models, the intensity of lesions depended on the relative engagement of activating and inhibitory IgG receptors. In vitro models of mature tissue-specific murine mast cells are needed to investigate the roles of mast cells in these diseases. One such model unraveled unique differentiation/maturation-dependent biological responses of serosal-type mast cells.

Effects of SHIP-1 on MMP2 Secretion and Invasion of SR3Y1 Cells

SHIP-1 is an SH2 domain containing inositol-5-phosphatase that appears to be a negative regulator of hematopoiesis. To the potential effects of SHIP-1 on MMP2 secretion and migration of cancer cells, three murine SHIP-1 mutants were made: DeltaSH2-SHIP-1, DeltaPtase-SHIP-1, DeltaCter-SHIP-1. These mutant forms were subcloned as well as the wild type (WT) of murine SHIP-1 cDNA were subcloned into pcDNA3 expression vector, then transfected into and overexpressed SHIP-1 and its mutants in a Src-transformed 3Y1 cell line (SR3Y1). The results showed that overexpression of wild type of SHIP-1 does not affect the MMP2 secretion in both SR3Y1 and 3Y1 cells, but can induce MMP9 secretion, while either WT SHIP-1, the SH2 domain, phosphatase domain, or C terminus deletion mutants could significantly block the MMP2 and MMP9 secretion in SR3Y1 cells and suppress cell invasion ability. The results confirmed SHIP-1 as a negative regulator for cell migration and invasion in transformed cells, and implied that it may function through each of its three domains.

The Src Homology 2-Containing Inositol 5-Phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) is involved in CD32a signaling in human neutrophils

Phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)triphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3)) plays important signaling roles in immune cells, particularly in the control of activating pathways and of survival. It is formed by a family of phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinases (PI3Ks) which phosphorylate PtdIns(4,5)P(2) in vivo. In human neutrophils, the levels of PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) increase rapidly at the leading edge of locomoting cells and at the base of the phagocytic cup during FcgammaR-mediated particle ingestion. Even though these, and other, data indicate that PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) is involved in the control of chemotaxis and phagocytosis in human neutrophils, the mechanisms that regulate its levels have yet to be fully elucidated in these cells. We evaluated the potential implication of SHIP1 and PTEN, two lipid phosphatases that utilize PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) as substrate, in the signaling pathways called upon in response to CD32a cross-linking. We observed that the cross-linking of CD32a resulted in a transient accumulation of PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3). CD32a cross-linking also induced the tyrosine phosphorylation of SHIP1, its translocation to the plasma membrane and its co-immunoprecipitation with CD32a. CD32a cross-linking had no effect on the level of serine/threonine phosphorylation of PTEN and did not stimulate its translocation to the plasma membrane. PP2, a Src kinase inhibitor, inhibited the tyrosine phosphorylation of SHIP1 as well as its translocation to the plasma membrane. Wortmannin, a PI3K inhibitor, had no effect on either of these two indices of activation of SHIP1. Our results indicate that SHIP1 is involved, in a Src kinase-dependent manner, in the early signaling events observed upon the cross-linking of CD32a in human neutrophils.

Macrophage pro-inflammatory response to Francisella novicida infection is regulated by SHIP

Francisella tularensis, a Gram-negative facultative intracellular pathogen infecting principally macrophages and monocytes, is the etiological agent of tularemia. Macrophage responses to F. tularensis infection include the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-12, which is critical for immunity against infection. Molecular mechanisms regulating production of these inflammatory mediators are poorly understood. Herein we report that the SH2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase (SHIP) is phosphorylated upon infection of primary murine macrophages with the genetically related F. novicida, and negatively regulates F. novicida-induced cytokine production. Analyses of the molecular details revealed that in addition to activating the MAP kinases, F. novicida infection also activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway in these cells. Interestingly, SHIP-deficient macrophages displayed enhanced Akt activation upon F. novicida infection, suggesting elevated PI3K-dependent activation pathways in absence of SHIP. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt resulted in suppression of F. novicida-induced cytokine production through the inhibition of NFkappaB. Consistently, macrophages lacking SHIP displayed enhanced NFkappaB-driven gene transcription, whereas overexpression of SHIP led to decreased NFkappaB activation. Thus, we propose that SHIP negatively regulates F. novicida-induced inflammatory cytokine response by antagonizing the PI3K/Akt pathway and suppressing NFkappaB-mediated gene transcription. A detailed analysis of phosphoinositide signaling may provide valuable clues for better understanding the pathogenesis of tularemia.

Src homology 2 (SH2)-containing 5'-inositol phosphatase localizes to podosomes, and the SH2 domain is implicated in the attenuation of bone resorption in osteoclasts

c-Src plays an important role in bone resorption by osteoclasts. Here, we show using wild-type and ship(-/-) osteoclasts that Src homology 2 (SH2)-containing 5'-inositol phosphatase (SHIP) appeared to negatively regulate bone resorption activated by c-Src. SHIP was found to localize to podosomes under the influence of c-Src, and the presence of either the amino-terminal region comprising the SH2 domain or the carboxyl-terminal region was sufficient for its localization. Although SHIP lacking a functional SH2 domain was still found in podosomes, it could not rescue the hyper-bone resorbing activity and hypersensitivity to receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand in ship(-/-) osteoclasts, suggesting that the localization of SHIP to podosomes per se was not sufficient and the SH2 domain was indispensable for its function. Cas and c-Cbl, known to function in podosomes of osteoclasts, were identified as novel proteins binding to the SHIP SH2 domain by mass spectrometric analysis, and this interaction appeared to be dependent on the Src kinase activity. These results demonstrate that c-Src enhances the translocation of SHIP to podosomes and regulates its function there through the SH2 domain, leading to an attenuation of bone resorption.

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase gamma signaling through protein kinase Czeta induces NADPH oxidase-mediated oxidant generation and NF-kappaB activation in endothelial cells

We addressed the role of class 1B phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) isoform PI3Kgamma in mediating NADPH oxidase activation and reactive oxidant species (ROS) generation in endothelial cells (ECs) and of PI3Kgamma-mediated oxidant signaling in the mechanism of NF-kappaB activation and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expression. We used lung microvascular ECs isolated from mice with targeted deletion of the p110gamma catalytic subunit of PI3Kgamma. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha challenge of wild type ECs caused p110gamma translocation to the plasma membrane and phosphatidylinositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production coupled to ROS production; however, this response was blocked in p110gamma-/- ECs. ROS production was the result of TNFalpha activation of Ser phosphorylation of NADPH oxidase subunit p47(phox) and its translocation to EC membranes. NADPH oxidase activation failed to occur in p110gamma-/- ECs. Additionally, the TNFalpha-activated NF-kappaB binding to the ICAM-1 promoter, ICAM-1 protein expression, and PMN adhesion to ECs required functional PI3Kgamma. TNFalpha challenge of p110gamma-/- ECs failed to induce phosphorylation of PDK1 and activation of the atypical PKC isoform, PKCzeta. Thus, PI3Kgamma lies upstream of PKCzeta in the endothelium, and its activation is crucial in signaling NADPH oxidase-dependent oxidant production and subsequent NF-kappaB activation and ICAM-1 expression.

Positive and negative regulation of mast cell activation by Lyn via the FcepsilonRI

Aggregation of the high affinity receptor for IgE (FcepsilonRI) induces activation of mast cells. In this study we show that upon low intensity stimulation of FcepsilonRI with monomeric IgE, IgE plus anti-IgE, or IgE plus low Ag, Lyn (a Src family kinase) positively regulates degranulation, cytokine production, and survival, whereas Lyn works as a negative regulator of high intensity stimulation with IgE plus high Ag. Low intensity stimulation suppressed Lyn kinase activity and its association with FcepsilonRI beta subunit, whereas high intensity stimulation enhanced Lyn activity and its association with FcepsilonRI beta. The latter induced much higher levels of FcepsilonRI beta phosphorylation and Syk activity than the former. Downstream positive signaling molecules, such as Akt and p38, were positively and negatively regulated by Lyn upon low and high intensity stimulations, respectively. In contrast, the negative regulators, SHIP and Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-1, interacted with FcepsilonRI beta, and their phosphorylation was controlled by Lyn. Therefore, we conclude that Lyn-mediated positive vs negative regulation depends on the intensity of the stimuli. Studies of mutant FcepsilonRI beta showed that FcepsilonRI beta subunit-ITAM (ITAM motif) regulates degranulation and cytokine production positively and negatively depending on the intensity of FcepsilonRI stimulation. Furthermore, Lyn-mediated negative regulation was shown to be exerted via the FcepsilonRI beta-ITAM.

Negative Signaling in Fc Receptor Complexes

Cell activation results from the transient displacement of an active balance between positive and negative signaling. This displacement depends in part on the engagement of cell surface receptors by extracellular ligands. Among these are receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulins (FcRs). FcRs are widely expressed by cells of hematopoietic origin. When binding antibodies, FcRs provide these cells with immunoreceptors capable of triggering numerous biological responses in response to a specific antigen. FcR-dependent cell activation is regulated by negative signals which are generated together with positive signals within signalosomes that form upon FcR engagement. Many molecules involved in positive signaling, including the FcRbeta subunit, the src kinase lyn, the cytosolic adapter Grb2, and the transmembrane adapters LAT and NTAL, are indeed also involved in negative signaling. A major player in negative regulation of FcR signaling is the inositol 5-phosphatase SHIP1. Several layers of negative regulation operate sequentially as FcRs are engaged by extracellular ligands with an increasing valency. A background protein tyrosine phosphatase-dependent negative regulation maintains cells in a "resting" state. SHIP1-dependent negative regulation can be detected as soon as high-affinity FcRs are occupied by antibodies in the absence of antigen. It increases when activating FcRs are engaged by multivalent ligands and, further, when FcR aggregation increases, accounting for the bell-shaped dose-response curve observed in excess of ligand. Finally, F-actin skeleton-associated high-molecular weight SHIP1, recruited to phosphorylated ITIMs, concentrates in signaling complexes when activating FcRs are coengaged with inhibitory FcRs by immune complexes. Based on these data, activating and inhibitory FcRs could be used for new therapeutic approaches to immune disorders.

Src Homology 2–Containing Inositol 5′-Phosphatase 1 Negatively Regulates IFN-γ Production by Natural Killer Cells Stimulated with Antibody-Coated Tumor Cells and Interleukin-12

We have previously shown that natural killer (NK) cells secrete a distinct profile of immunomodulatory cytokines in response to dual stimulation with antibody-coated tumor cells and interleukin-12 (IL-12). This NK cell cytokine response is dependent on synergistic signals mediated by the activating receptor for the Fc portion of IgG (FcgammaRIIIa) and the IL-12 receptor (IL-12R), both constitutively expressed on NK cells. The phosphatase Src homology 2-containing inositol 5'-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) is known to exert inhibitory effects on Fc receptor (FcR) signaling via its enzymatic activity on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) products within many cells of the immune system, most notably mast cells, B cells, and monocytes. However, its activity in the context of FcR activation on NK cells has not been fully explored. The current study focused on the regulation of FcgammaRIIIa-induced NK cell cytokine production by SHIP1. Inhibitor studies showed that NK cell IFN-gamma production following FcR stimulation in the presence of IL-12 depended, in part, on the downstream products of PI3-K. Overexpression of wild-type (WT) SHIP1, but not a catalytic-deficient mutant, via retroviral transfection of primary human NK cells, resulted in a >70% reduction of NK cell IFN-gamma production in response to costimulation. In addition, NK cells from SHIP1-/- mice produced 10-fold greater amounts of IFN-gamma following culture with antibody-coated tumor cells plus IL-12 compared with NK cells from WT mice. Further, activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family member extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk; a downstream target of PI3-K) was significantly enhanced within SHIP1-/- NK cells compared with WT NK cells following costimulation. Pharmacologic inhibition of Erk activity, but not Jnk MAPK activity, led to significantly decreased IFN-gamma production from both SHIP1-/- and WT NK cells under these conditions. These results are the first to show a physiologic role for SHIP1 in the regulation of NK cell cytokine production and implicate PI3-K in the induction of MAPK signal transduction following costimulation of NK cells via the FcR and the IL-12R.

Molecular analysis of expression and function of hFcgammaRIIbl and b2 isoforms in myeloid cells

The inhibitory receptor FcgammaRIIb becomes tyrosine phosphorylated and associates with the inositol phosphatase SHIP to downregulate phagocytosis. The two splice variants of FcgammaRIIb, b1 and b2, are differentially expressed in hematopoetic cells. Both isoforms of FcgammaRIIb are expressed in human myeloid cells although FcgammaRIIb2 predominates. In murine B cells FcgammaRIIb2 associates with clathrin-coated pits and undergoes endocytosis, whereas FcgammaRIIbl is excluded from the coated pits, indicating that the two isoforms serve partially differing functions. In humans, there are conflicting reports with regard to the ability of FcgammaRIIb2 to become tyrosine phosphorylated, and the functional capacities of the two isoforms are poorly understood. We, and others, have previously reported that the expression of FcgammaRIIb is upregulated in human monocytes by the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4. Here, we extend these findings to demonstrate that the IL-4-induced upregulation of FcgammaRIIb is synergistically enhanced by the addition of IL-10, both at the protein and the mRNA level. The upregulated receptors are functional as assessed by their ability to become tyrosine phosphorylated and to downregulate phagocytosis. Interestingly, both b1 and b2 isoforms are upregulated by anti-inflammatory cytokines. Transfection experiments expressing human FcgammaRIIbl or b2 in Raw 264.7 murine macrophage cells revealed that both isoforms are tyrosine phosphorylated and promote SHIP phosphorylation. Finally, both b1 and b2 isoforms of FcgammaRIIb downregulate phagocytosis to a similar extent. Thus we conclude that FcgammaRIIbl and b2 are both functional inhibitory receptors in the phagocytic process.

Vav activation and function as a rac guanine nucleotide exchange factor in macrophage colony-stimulating factor-induced macrophage chemotaxis

Signal transduction mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) is regulated by hydrolysis of its products, a function performed by the 145-kDa SH2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase (SHIP). Here, we show that bone marrow macrophages of SHIP(-/-) animals have elevated levels of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate [PI (3,4,5)P(3)] and displayed higher and more prolonged chemotactic responses to macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and elevated levels of F-actin relative to wild-type macrophages. We also found that the small GTPase Rac was constitutively active and its upstream activator Vav was constitutively phosphorylated in SHIP(-/-) macrophages. Furthermore, we show that Vav in wild-type macrophages is recruited to the membrane in a PI 3-kinase-dependent manner through the Vav pleckstrin homology domain upon M-CSF stimulation. Dominant inhibitory mutants of both Rac and Vav blocked chemotaxis. We conclude that Vav acts as a PI 3-kinase-dependent activator for Rac activation in macrophages stimulated with M-CSF and that SHIP regulates macrophage M-CSF-triggered chemotaxis by hydrolysis of PI (3,4,5)P(3).

Dynamic interactions of Fc gamma receptor IIB with filamin-bound SHIP1 amplify filamentous actin-dependent negative regulation of Fc epsilon receptor I signaling

The engagement of high affinity receptors for IgE (FcepsilonRI) generates both positive and negative signals whose integration determines the intensity of mast cell responses. FcepsilonRI-positive signals are also negatively regulated by low affinity receptors for IgG (FcgammaRIIB). Although the constitutive negative regulation of FcepsilonRI signaling was shown to depend on the submembranous F-actin skeleton, the role of this compartment in FcgammaRIIB-dependent inhibition is unknown. We show in this study that the F-actin skeleton is essential for FcgammaRIIB-dependent negative regulation. It contains SHIP1, the phosphatase responsible for inhibition, which is constitutively associated with the actin-binding protein, filamin-1. After coaggregation, FcgammaRIIB and FcepsilonRI rapidly interact with the F-actin skeleton and engage SHIP1 and filamin-1. Later, filamin-1 and F-actin dissociate from FcR complexes, whereas SHIP1 remains associated with FcgammaRIIB. Based on these results, we propose a dynamic model in which the submembranous F-actin skeleton forms an inhibitory compartment where filamin-1 functions as a donor of SHIP1 for FcgammaRIIB, which concentrate this phosphatase in the vicinity of FcepsilonRI and thereby extinguish activation signals.

Src homology 2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) negatively regulates TLR4-mediated LPS response primarily through a phosphatase activity- and PI-3K-independent mechanism

Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP1) plays important roles in negatively regulating the activation of immune cells primarily via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI-3K) pathway by catalyzing the PI-3K product PtdIns-3,4,5P3 (phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate) into PtdIns-3,4P2. However, the role of SHIP1 in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated lipopolysaccharide (LPS) response remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that SHIP1 negatively regulates LPS-induced inflammatory response via both phosphatase activity-dependent and -independent mechanisms in macrophages. SHIP1 becomes tyrosine phosphorylated and up-regulated upon LPS stimulation in RAW264.7 macrophages. SHIP1-specific RNA-interfering and SHIP1 overexpression experiments demonstrate that SHIP1 inhibits LPS-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) production by negatively regulating the LPS-induced combination between TLR4 and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88); activation of Ras (p21(ras) protein), PI-3K, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), p38, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK); and degradation of IkappaB-alpha. SHIP1 also significantly inhibits LPS-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in TLR4-reconstitited COS7 cells. Although SHIP1-mediated inhibition of PI-3K is dependent on its phosphatase activity, phosphatase activity-disrupted mutant SHIP1 remains inhibitory to LPS-induced TNF-alpha production. Neither disrupting phosphatase activity nor using the PI-3K pathway inhibitor LY294002 or wortmannin could significantly block SHIP1-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced ERK1/2, p38, and JNK activation and TNF-alpha production, demonstrating that SHIP1 inhibits LPS-induced activation of MAPKs and cytokine production primarily by a phosphatase activity- and PI-3K-independent mechanism.

Loss of SHIP and CIS recruitment to the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor contribute to hyperproliferative responses in severe congenital neutropenia/acute myelogenous leukemia

Mutations in the G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR) in patients with severe congenital neutropenia (SCN) are postulated to contribute to transformation to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). These mutations result in defective receptor internalization and sustained cellular activation, suggesting a loss of negative signaling by the G-CSFR. In this paper we investigated the roles of SHIP and cytokine-inducible Src homology 2 protein (CIS) in down-modulating G-CSFR signals and demonstrate that loss of their recruitment as a consequence of receptor mutations leads to aberrant signaling. We show that SHIP binds to phosphopeptides corresponding to Tyr744 and Tyr764 in the G-CSFR and that Tyr764 is required for in vivo phosphorylation of SHIP and the formation of SHIP/Shc complexes. Cells expressing a G-CSFR form lacking Tyr764 exhibited hypersensitivity to G-CSF and enhanced proliferation, but to a lesser degree than observed with the most common mutant G-CSFR form in patients with SCN/AML, prompting us to investigate whether suppressor of cytokine signaling proteins also down-modulate G-CSFR signals. G-CSF was found to induce the expression of CIS and of CIS bound to phosphopeptides corresponding to Tyr729 and Tyr744 of the G-CSFR. The expression of CIS was prolonged in cells with the SCN/AML mutant G-CSFR lacking Tyr729 and Tyr744, which also correlated with increased G-CSFR expression. These findings suggest that SHIP and CIS interact with distal phosphotyrosine residues in the G-CSFR to negatively regulate G-CSFR signaling by limiting proliferation and modulating surface expression of the G-CSFR, respectively. Novel therapeutic approaches targeting inhibitory pathways that limit G-CSFR signaling may have promise in the treatment of patients with SCN/AML.

The FcepsilonRIbeta immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif exerts inhibitory control on MAPK and IkappaB kinase phosphorylation and mast cell cytokine production

The high affinity IgE Fc receptor (FcepsilonRI) beta chain functions as a signal amplifier and has been linked to atopy, asthma, and allergy. Herein, we report on a previously unrecognized negative regulatory role for the nonconventional beta chain immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif that contains three tyrosine residues (YX5YX3Y). Degranulation and leukotriene production was found to be impaired in cells expressing the mutated FcepsilonRIbeta immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs FYY, YYF, FYF, and FFF. In contrast, cytokine synthesis and secretion were enhanced in the YFY and FFF mutants. FcepsilonRI phosphorylation and Lyn kinase co-immunoprecipitation was intact in the YFY mutant but was lost in the FYF and FFF mutants. The phosphorylation of Syk, LAT, phospholipase gamma1/2, and Srchomology 2 domain-containing protein phosphatase 2 was intact, whereas the phosphorylation of SHIP-1 was significantly reduced in the YFY mutant cells. The FYF and FFF mutants were defective in phosphorylating all of these molecules. In contrast, the phosphorylation of ERK, p38 MAPK, IkappaB kinase beta (IKKbeta), and nuclear NFkappaB activity was enhanced in the YFY and FFF mutants. These findings show that the FcepsilonRIbeta functions to both selectively amplify (degranulation and leukotriene secretion) and dampen (lymphokine) mast cell effector responses.

Perturbed myelo/erythropoiesis in Lyn-deficient mice is similar to that in mice lacking the inhibitory phosphatases SHP-1 and SHIP-1

The Lyn tyrosine kinase plays essential inhibitory signaling roles within hematopoietic cells by recruiting inhibitory phosphatases such as SH2-domain containing phosphatase-1 (SHP-1), SHP-2, and SH2-domain containing 5'-inositol phosphatase (SHIP-1) to the plasma membrane in response to specific stimuli. Lyn-deficient mice display a collection of hematopoietic defects, including autoimmune disease as a result of autoantibody production, and perturbations in myelopoiesis that ultimately lead to splenomegaly and myeloid neoplasia. In this study, we demonstrate that loss of Lyn results in a stem/progenitor cell-intrinsic defect leading to an age-dependent increase in myeloid, erythroid, and primitive hematopoietic progenitor numbers that is independent of autoimmune disease. Despite possessing increased numbers of erythroid progenitors, and a more robust expansion of these cells following phenylhydrazine challenge, Lyn-deficient mice are more severely affected by the chemotherapeutic drug 5-fluorouracil, revealing a greater proportion of cycling progenitors. We also show that mice lacking SHIP-1 have defects in the erythroid and myeloid compartments similar to those in mice lacking Lyn or SHP-1, suggesting an intimate relationship between Lyn, SHP-1, and SHIP-1 in regulating hematopoiesis.