Critical role of the transcriptional repressor neuron-restrictive silencer factor in the specific control of connexin36 in insulin-producing cell lines

Electrical synapse structure requires distinct isoforms of a postsynaptic scaffold

Electrical synapses are neuronal gap junction (GJ) channels associated with a macromolecular complex called the electrical synapse density (ESD), which regulates development and dynamically modifies electrical transmission. However, the proteomic makeup and molecular mechanisms utilized by the ESD that direct electrical synapse formation are not well understood. Using the Mauthner cell of zebrafish as a model, we previously found that the intracellular scaffolding protein ZO1b is a member of the ESD, localizing postsynaptically, where it is required for GJ channel localization, electrical communication, neural network function, and behavior. Here, we show that the complexity of the ESD is further diversified by the genomic structure of the ZO1b gene locus. The ZO1b gene is alternatively initiated at three transcriptional start sites resulting in isoforms with unique N-termini that we call ZO1b-Alpha, -Beta, and -Gamma. We demonstrate that ZO1b-Beta and ZO1b-Gamma are broadly expressed throughout the nervous system and localize to electrical synapses. By contrast, ZO1b-Alpha is expressed mainly non-neuronally and is not found at synapses. We generate mutants in all individual isoforms, as well as double mutant combinations in cis on individual chromosomes, and find that ZO1b-Beta is necessary and sufficient for robust GJ channel localization. ZO1b-Gamma, despite its localization to the synapse, plays an auxiliary role in channel localization. This study expands the notion of molecular complexity at the ESD, revealing that an individual genomic locus can contribute distinct isoforms to the macromolecular complex at electrical synapses. Further, independent scaffold isoforms have differential contributions to developmental assembly of the interneuronal GJ channels. We propose that ESD molecular complexity arises both from the diversity of unique genes and from distinct isoforms encoded by single genes. Overall, ESD proteomic diversity is expected to have critical impacts on the development, structure, function, and plasticity of electrical transmission.

REST Is Not Resting: REST/NRSF in Health and Disease

Chromatin modifications play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression. The repressor element-1 (RE1) silencing transcription factor (REST), also known as neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF) and X2 box repressor (XBR), was found to regulate gene transcription by binding to chromatin and recruiting chromatin-modifying enzymes. Earlier studies revealed that REST plays an important role in the development and disease of the nervous system, mainly by repressing the transcription of neuron-specific genes. Subsequently, REST was found to be critical in other tissues, such as the heart, pancreas, skin, eye, and vascular. Dysregulation of REST was also found in nervous and non-nervous system cancers. In parallel, multiple strategies to target REST have been developed. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive summary of the research progress made over the past 28 years since the discovery of REST, encompassing both physiological and pathological aspects. These insights into the effects and mechanisms of REST contribute to an in-depth understanding of the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms of genes and their roles in the development and progression of disease, with a view to discovering potential therapeutic targets and intervention strategies for various related diseases.

Short tandem repeats are important contributors to silencer elements in T cells

The action of cis-regulatory elements with either activation or repression functions underpins the precise regulation of gene expression during normal development and cell differentiation. Gene activation by the combined activities of promoters and distal enhancers has been extensively studied in normal and pathological contexts. In sharp contrast, gene repression by cis-acting silencers, defined as genetic elements that negatively regulate gene transcription in a position-independent fashion, is less well understood. Here, we repurpose the STARR-seq approach as a novel high-throughput reporter strategy to quantitatively assess silencer activity in mammals. We assessed silencer activity from DNase hypersensitive I sites in a mouse T cell line. Identified silencers were associated with either repressive or active chromatin marks and enriched for binding motifs of known transcriptional repressors. CRISPR-mediated genomic deletions validated the repressive function of distinct silencers involved in the repression of non-T cell genes and genes regulated during T cell differentiation. Finally, we unravel an association of silencer activity with short tandem repeats, highlighting the role of repetitive elements in silencer activity. Our results provide a general strategy for genome-wide identification and characterization of silencer elements.

The NRSF/REST transcription factor in hallmarks of cancer: From molecular mechanisms to clinical relevance

The RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST), or neuron restrictive silencing factor (NRSF), was first identified as a repressor of neuronal genes in non-neuronal tissue. Interestingly, this transcription factor may act as a tumor suppressor or an oncogenic role in developing neuroendocrine and other tumors in patients. The hallmarks of cancer include six biological processes, including proliferative signaling, evasion of growth suppressors, resistance to cell death, replicative immortality, inducing angiogenesis, and activating invasion and metastasis. In addition to two emerging hallmarks, the reprogramming of energy metabolism and evasion of the immune response are all implicated in the development of human tumors. It is essential to know the role of these processes as they will affect the outcome of alternatives for cancer treatment. Various studies in this review demonstrate that NRSF/REST affects the different hallmarks of cancer that could position NRSF/REST as an essential target in the therapy and diagnosis of certain types of cancer.

Connexins and Glucose Metabolism in Cancer

Connexins are a family of transmembrane proteins that regulate diverse cellular functions. Originally characterized for their ability to mediate direct intercellular communication through the formation of highly regulated membrane channels, their functions have been extended to the exchange of molecules with the extracellular environment, and the ability to modulate numerous channel-independent effects on processes such as motility and survival. Notably, connexins have been implicated in cancer biology for their context-dependent roles that can both promote or suppress cancer cell function. Moreover, connexins are able to mediate many aspects of cellular metabolism including the intercellular coupling of nutrients and signaling molecules. During cancer progression, changes to substrate utilization occur to support energy production and biomass accumulation. This results in metabolic plasticity that promotes cell survival and proliferation, and can impact therapeutic resistance. Significant progress has been made in our understanding of connexin and cancer biology, however, delineating the roles these multi-faceted proteins play in metabolic adaptation of cancer cells is just beginning. Glucose represents a major carbon substrate for energy production, nucleotide synthesis, carbohydrate modifications and generation of biosynthetic intermediates. While cancer cells often exhibit a dependence on glycolytic metabolism for survival, cellular reprogramming of metabolic pathways is common when blood perfusion is limited in growing tumors. These metabolic changes drive aggressive phenotypes through the acquisition of functional traits. Connections between glucose metabolism and connexin function in cancer cells and the surrounding stroma are now apparent, however much remains to be discovered regarding these relationships. This review discusses the existing evidence in this area and highlights directions for continued investigation.

REST Inhibits Direct Reprogramming of Pancreatic Exocrine to Endocrine Cells by Preventing PDX1-Mediated Activation of Endocrine Genes

The emerging appreciation of plasticity among pancreatic lineages has created interest in harnessing cellular reprogramming for β cell replacement therapy of diabetes. Current reprogramming methodologies are inefficient, largely because of a limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Using an in vitro reprogramming system, we reveal the transcriptional repressor RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) as a barrier for β cell gene expression in the reprogramming of pancreatic exocrine cells. We observe that REST-bound loci lie adjacent to the binding sites of multiple key β cell transcription factors, including PDX1. Accordingly, a loss of REST function combined with PDX1 expression results in the synergistic activation of endocrine genes. This is accompanied by increased histone acetylation and PDX1 binding at endocrine gene loci. Collectively, our data identify a mechanism for REST activity involving the prevention of PDX1-mediated activation of endocrine genes and uncover REST downregulation and the resulting chromatin alterations as key events in β cell reprogramming.

The Roles of Calmodulin and CaMKII in Cx36 Plasticity

Anatomical and electrophysiological evidence that gap junctions and electrical coupling occur between neurons was initially confined to invertebrates and nonmammals and was thought to be a primitive form of synaptic transmission. More recent studies revealed that electrical communication is common in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), often coexisting with chemical synaptic transmission. The subsequent progress indicated that electrical synapses formed by the gap junction protein connexin-36 (Cx36) and its paralogs in nonmammals constitute vital elements in mammalian and fish synaptic circuitry. They govern the collective activity of ensembles of coupled neurons, and Cx36 gap junctions endow them with enormous adaptive plasticity, like that seen at chemical synapses. Moreover, they orchestrate the synchronized neuronal network activity and rhythmic oscillations that underlie the fundamental integrative processes, such as memory and learning. Here, we review the available mechanistic evidence and models that argue for the essential roles of calcium, calmodulin, and the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in integrating calcium signals to modulate the strength of electrical synapses through interactions with the gap junction protein Cx36.

Scrt1, a transcriptional regulator of β-cell proliferation identified by differential chromatin accessibility during islet maturation

Glucose-induced insulin secretion, a hallmark of mature β-cells, is achieved after birth and is preceded by a phase of intense proliferation. These events occurring in the neonatal period are decisive for establishing an appropriate functional β-cell mass that provides the required insulin throughout life. However, key regulators of gene expression involved in functional maturation of β-cells remain to be elucidated. Here, we addressed this issue by mapping open chromatin regions in newborn versus adult rat islets using the ATAC-seq assay. We obtained a genome-wide picture of chromatin accessible sites (~ 100,000) among which 20% were differentially accessible during maturation. An enrichment analysis of transcription factor binding sites identified a group of transcription factors that could explain these changes. Among them, Scrt1 was found to act as a transcriptional repressor and to control β-cell proliferation. Interestingly, Scrt1 expression was controlled by the transcriptional repressor RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) and was increased in an in vitro reprogramming system of pancreatic exocrine cells to β-like cells. Overall, this study led to the identification of several known and unforeseen key transcriptional events occurring during β-cell maturation. These findings will help defining new strategies to induce the functional maturation of surrogate insulin-producing cells.

The differentiation of human MSCs derived from adipose and amniotic tissues into insulin-producing cells, induced by PEI@Fe3O4 nanoparticles-mediated NRSF and SHH silencing

Type 1 diabetes involves the immunologically mediated destruction of insulin‑producing cells (IPCs) in the pancreatic islet. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the ability to differentiate into IPCs and have become the most promising means for diabetes therapy. The present study demonstrated that human adipose‑derived stem cells (hADSCs) and human amniotic MSCs (hAMSCs) are able to differentiate into functional IPCs by knocking down neuronal restrictive silencing factor (NRSF) and Sonic hedgehog (SHH). In the current study, PEI@Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were used to deliver NRSF small interfering (si)RNA and SHH siRNA to hADSCs and hAMSCs. Following infection with PEI@Fe3O4 NPs containing NRSF siRNA and SHH siRNA, the MSCs were induced to differentiate into IPCs. Four specific genes for islet cells were expressed in the differentiated cells. These cells also produced and released insulin in a glucose‑responsive manner. These findings indicated that hADSCs and hAMSCs may be induced to differentiate into IPCs via PEI@Fe3O4 NP‑mediated NRSF and SHH silencing.

The interplay between electrical and chemical synaptogenesis

Neurons communicate with each other via electrical or chemical synaptic connections. The pattern and strength of connections between neurons are critical for generating appropriate output. What mechanisms govern the formation of electrical and/or chemical synapses between two neurons? Recent studies indicate that common molecular players could regulate the formation of both of these classes of synapses. In addition, electrical and chemical synapses can mutually coregulate each other’s formation. Electrical activity, generated spontaneously by the nervous system or initiated from sensory experience, plays an important role in this process, leading to the selection of appropriate connections and the elimination of inappropriate ones. In this review, we discuss recent studies that shed light on the formation and developmental interactions of chemical and electrical synapses.

Neuron-enriched RNA-binding Proteins Regulate Pancreatic Beta Cell Function and Survival

Pancreatic beta cell failure is the central event leading to diabetes. Beta cells share many phenotypic traits with neurons, and proper beta cell function relies on the activation of several neuron-like transcription programs. Regulation of gene expression by alternative splicing plays a pivotal role in brain, where it affects neuronal development, function, and disease. The role of alternative splicing in beta cells remains unclear, but recent data indicate that splicing alterations modulated by both inflammation and susceptibility genes for diabetes contribute to beta cell dysfunction and death. Here we used RNA sequencing to compare the expression of splicing-regulatory RNA-binding proteins in human islets, brain, and other human tissues, and we identified a cluster of splicing regulators that are expressed in both beta cells and brain. Four of them, namely Elavl4, Nova2, Rbox1, and Rbfox2, were selected for subsequent functional studies in insulin-producing rat INS-1E, human EndoC-βH1 cells, and in primary rat beta cells. Silencing of Elavl4 and Nova2 increased beta cell apoptosis, whereas silencing of Rbfox1 and Rbfox2 increased insulin content and secretion. Interestingly, Rbfox1 silencing modulates the splicing of the actin-remodeling protein gelsolin, increasing gelsolin expression and leading to faster glucose-induced actin depolymerization and increased insulin release. Taken together, these findings indicate that beta cells share common splicing regulators and programs with neurons. These splicing regulators play key roles in insulin release and beta cell survival, and their dysfunction may contribute to the loss of functional beta cell mass in diabetes.

The Importance of REST for Development and Function of Beta Cells

Beta cells are defined by the genes they express, many of which are specific to this cell type, and ensure a specific set of functions. Beta cells are also defined by a set of genes they should not express (in order to function properly), and these genes have been called forbidden genes. Among these, the transcriptional repressor RE-1 Silencing Transcription factor (REST) is expressed in most cells of the body, excluding most populations of neurons, as well as pancreatic beta and alpha cells. In the cell types where it is expressed, REST represses the expression of hundreds of genes that are crucial for both neuronal and pancreatic endocrine function, through the recruitment of multiple transcriptional and epigenetic co-regulators. REST targets include genes encoding transcription factors, proteins involved in exocytosis, synaptic transmission or ion channeling, and non-coding RNAs. REST is expressed in the progenitors of both neurons and beta cells during development, but it is down-regulated as the cells differentiate. Although REST mutations and deregulation have yet to be connected to diabetes in humans, REST activation during both development and in adult beta cells leads to diabetes in mice.

Regulation of connexin signaling by the epigenetic machinery

Connexins and their channels are involved in the control of all aspects of the cellular life cycle, ranging from cell growth to cell death, by mediating extracellular, intercellular and intracellular communication. These multifaceted aspects of connexin-related cellular signaling obviously require strict regulation. While connexin channel activity is mainly directed by posttranslational modifications, connexin expression as such is managed by classical cis/trans mechanisms. Over the past few years, it has become clear that connexin production is equally dictated by epigenetic actions. This paper provides an overview of the role of major determinants of the epigenome, including DNA methylation, histone acetylation and microRNA species, in connexin expression.

Role of Connexins and Pannexins in the Pancreas

The pancreas produces enzymes with a digestive function and hormones with a metabolic function, which are produced by distinct cell types of acini and islets, respectively. Within these units, secretory cells coordinate their functioning by exchanging information via signals that flow in the intercellular spaces and are generated either at distance (several neural and hormonal inputs) or nearby the pancreatic cells themselves (inputs mediated by membrane ionic-specific channels and by ionic- and metabolite-permeant pannexin channels and connexin "hemichannels"). Pancreatic secretory cells further interact via the extracellular matrix of the pancreas (inputs mediated by integrins) and directly with neighboring cells, by mechanisms that do not require extracellular mediators (inputs mediated by gap and tight junction channels). Here, we review the expression and function of the connexins and pannexins that are expressed by the main secretory cells of the exocrine and endocrine pancreatic cells. Available data show that the patterns of expression of these proteins differ in acini and islets, supporting distinct functions in the physiological secretion of pancreatic enzymes and hormones. Circumstantial evidence further suggests that alterations in the signaling provided by these proteins are involved in pancreatic diseases.

REST represses a subset of the pancreatic endocrine differentiation program

To contribute to devise successful beta-cell differentiation strategies for the cure of Type 1 diabetes we sought to uncover barriers that restrict endocrine fate acquisition by studying the role of the transcriptional repressor REST in the developing pancreas. Rest expression is prevented in neurons and in endocrine cells, which is necessary for their normal function. During development, REST represses a subset of genes in the neuronal differentiation program and Rest is down-regulated as neurons differentiate. Here, we investigate the role of REST in the differentiation of pancreatic endocrine cells, which are molecularly close to neurons. We show that Rest is widely expressed in pancreas progenitors and that it is down-regulated in differentiated endocrine cells. Sustained expression of REST in Pdx1(+) progenitors impairs the differentiation of endocrine-committed Neurog3(+) progenitors, decreases beta and alpha cell mass by E18.5, and triggers diabetes in adulthood. Conditional inactivation of Rest in Pdx1(+) progenitors is not sufficient to trigger endocrine differentiation but up-regulates a subset of differentiation genes. Our results show that the transcriptional repressor REST is active in pancreas progenitors where it gates the activation of part of the beta cell differentiation program.

RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST): a regulator of neuronal development and neuronal/endocrine function

RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) is a transcriptional repressor that has been proposed to function as a master negative regulator of neurogenesis, as REST target genes encode neuronal receptors, ion channels, neuropeptides and synaptic proteins. During neuronal differentiation, REST expression levels are reduced, allowing expression of selected REST target genes. The analysis of neural stem/progenitor cells that are either devoid of REST or overexpress REST revealed that REST is not the master regulator that is solely responsible for the acquisition of the neuronal fate. Rather, REST provides a regulatory hub that coordinately regulates multiple tiers of neuronal development in vitro. In addition, REST may play an important role for maintaining the integrity of adult neurons. REST confers oxidative stress resistance and is essential for maintaining neuronal viability. Furthermore, the concentration of REST has been reported to influence the pathogenic outcome by neuronal diseases, including stroke, epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. Experiments performed with PC12 pheochromocytoma cells indicate that REST may function as a key regulator of the neurosecretory phenotype. Moreover, transgenic mice overexpressing REST in pancreatic β-cells showed impaired insulin secretion leading to significantly reduced plasma insulin levels. Based on the fact that REST plays a prominent role in controlling stimulus-induced secretion in endocrine cells, we propose that REST may also be important for neurotransmitter release via regulation of genes that encode important proteins of the exocytotic machinery.

New insights into the role of connexins in pancreatic islet function and diabetes

Multi-cellular systems require complex signaling mechanisms for proper tissue function, to mediate signaling between cells in close proximity and at distances. This holds true for the islets of Langerhans, which are multicellular micro-organs located in the pancreas responsible for glycemic control, through secretion of insulin and other hormones. Coupling of electrical and metabolic signaling between islet β-cells is required for proper insulin secretion and effective glycemic control. β-cell specific coupling is established through gap junctions composed of connexin36, which results in coordinated insulin release across the islet. Islet connexins have been implicated in both Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes; however a clear link remains to be determined. The goal of this review is to discuss recent discoveries regarding the role of connexins in regulating insulin secretion, the regulation of connexins within the islet, and recent studies which support a role for connexins in diabetes. Further studies which investigate the regulation of connexins in the islet and their role in diabetes may lead to novel diabetes therapies which regulate islet function and β-cell survival through modulation of gap junction coupling.

Gap junctions

Gap junctions are essential to the function of multicellular animals, which require a high degree of coordination between cells. In vertebrates, gap junctions comprise connexins and currently 21 connexins are known in humans. The functions of gap junctions are highly diverse and include exchange of metabolites and electrical signals between cells, as well as functions, which are apparently unrelated to intercellular communication. Given the diversity of gap junction physiology, regulation of gap junction activity is complex. The structure of the various connexins is known to some extent; and structural rearrangements and intramolecular interactions are important for regulation of channel function. Intercellular coupling is further regulated by the number and activity of channels present in gap junctional plaques. The number of connexins in cell-cell channels is regulated by controlling transcription, translation, trafficking, and degradation; and all of these processes are under strict control. Once in the membrane, channel activity is determined by the conductive properties of the connexin involved, which can be regulated by voltage and chemical gating, as well as a large number of posttranslational modifications. The aim of the present article is to review our current knowledge on the structure, regulation, function, and pharmacology of gap junctions. This will be supported by examples of how different connexins and their regulation act in concert to achieve appropriate physiological control, and how disturbances of connexin function can lead to disease.

Hyperglycemia downregulates Connexin36 in pancreatic islets via the upregulation of ICER-1/ICER-1γ

Channels formed by the gap junction protein Connexin36 (CX36) contribute to the proper control of insulin secretion. We previously demonstrated that chronic exposure to glucose decreases Cx36 levels in insulin-secreting cells in vitro. Here, we investigated whether hyperglycemia also regulates Cx36 in vivo. Using a model of continuous glucose infusion in adult rats, we showed that prolonged (24-48 h) hyperglycemia reduced the Cx36 gene Gjd2 mRNA levels in pancreatic islets. Accordingly, prolonged exposure to high glucose concentrations also reduced the expression and function of Cx36 in the rat insulin-producing INS-1E cell line. The glucose effect was blocked after inhibition of the cAMP/PKA pathway and was associated with an overexpression of the inducible cAMP early repressor ICER-1/ICER-1γ, which binds to a functional cAMP-response element in the promoter of the Cx36 gene Gjd2. The involvement of this repressor was further demonstrated using an antisense strategy of ICER-1 inhibition, which prevented glucose-induced downregulation of Cx36. The data indicate that chronic exposure to glucose alters the in vivo expression of Cx36 by the insulin-producing β-cells through ICER-1/ICER-1γ overexpression. This mechanism may contribute to the reduced glucose sensitivity and altered insulin secretion, which contribute to the pathophysiology of diabetes.

Neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF) represses cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) transcription and antagonizes cAMP-response element-binding protein signaling through a dual NRSE mechanism

Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide plays a pivotal role in neuroprotection against stroke-related brain injury. However, the regulatory mechanism on CART transcription, especially the repression mechanism, is not fully understood. Here, we show that the transcriptional repressor neuron-restrictive silencer elements (NRSF, also known as REST) represses CART expression through direct binding to two NRSF-binding elements (NRSEs) in the CART promoter and intron 1 (named pNRSE and iNRSE, respectively). EMSA show that NRSF binds to pNRSE and iNRSE directly in vitro. ChIP assays show that NRSF recruits differential co-repressor complexes including CoREST and HDAC1 to these NRSEs. The presence of both NRSEs is required for efficient repression of CART transcription as indicated by reporter gene assays. NRSF overexpression antagonizes forskolin-mediated up-regulation of CART mRNA and protein. Ischemia insult triggered by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) enhances NRSF mRNA levels and then NRSF antagonizes the CREB signaling on CART activation, leading to augmented cell death. Depletion of NRSF in combination with forskolin treatment increases neuronal survival after ischemic insult. These findings reveal a novel dual NRSE mechanism by which NRSF represses CART expression and suggest that NRSF may serve as a therapeutic target for stroke treatment.

Specific silencing of the REST target genes in insulin-secreting cells uncovers their participation in beta cell survival

The absence of the transcriptional repressor RE-1 Silencing Transcription Factor (REST) in insulin-secreting beta cells is a major cue for the specific expression of a large number of genes. These REST target genes were largely ascribed to a function of neurotransmission in a neuronal context, whereas their role in pancreatic beta cells has been poorly explored. To identify their functional significance, we have generated transgenic mice expressing REST in beta cells (RIP-REST mice), and previously discovered that REST target genes are essential to insulin exocytosis. Herein we characterized a novel line of RIP-REST mice featuring diabetes. In diabetic RIP-REST mice, high levels of REST were associated with postnatal beta cell apoptosis, which resulted in gradual beta cell loss and sustained hyperglycemia in adults. Moreover, adenoviral REST transduction in INS-1E cells led to increased cell death under control conditions, and sensitized cells to death induced by cytokines. Screening for REST target genes identified several anti-apoptotic genes bearing the binding motif RE-1 that were downregulated upon REST expression in INS-1E cells, including Gjd2, Mapk8ip1, Irs2, Ptprn, and Cdk5r2. Decreased levels of Cdk5r2 in beta cells of RIP-REST mice further confirmed that it is controlled by REST, in vivo. Using siRNA-mediated knock-down in INS-1E cells, we showed that Cdk5r2 protects beta cells against cytokines and palmitate-induced apoptosis. Together, these data document that a set of REST target genes, including Cdk5r2, is important for beta cell survival.

Cx36 is a target of Beta2/NeuroD1, which associates with prenatal differentiation of insulin-producing β cells

The insulin-producing β cells of pancreatic islets are coupled by connexin36 (Cx36) channels. To investigate what controls the expression of this connexin, we have investigated its pattern during mouse pancreas development, and the influence of three transcription factors that are critical for β-cell development and differentiation. We show that (1) the Cx36 gene (Gjd2) is activated early in pancreas development and is markedly induced at the time of the surge of the transcription factors that determine β-cell differentiation; (2) the cognate protein is detected about a week later and is selectively expressed by β cells throughout the prenatal development of mouse pancreas; (3) a 2-kbp fragment of the Gjd2 promoter, which contains three E boxes for the binding of the bHLH factor Beta2/NeuroD1, ensures the expression of Cx36 by β cells; and (4) Beta2/NeuroD1 binds to these E boxes and, in the presence of the E47 ubiquitous cofactor, transactivates the Gjd2 promoter. The data identify Cx36 as a novel early marker of β cells and as a target of Beta2/NeuroD1, which is essential for β-cell development and differentiation.

In vitro reprogramming of rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells into insulin-producing cells by genetically manipulating negative and positive regulators

Islet cell replacement therapy represents the most promising approach for the cure of type 1 diabetes if autoimmunity to β cells is under control. However, this potential is limited by a shortage of pancreas donors. To address the donor shortage problem, we determined whether bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (bmMSCs) can be directly reprogrammed to islet lineages by simultaneously forced suppression and over-expression of key regulator genes that play critical roles during pancreas development. Here, we report that rat bmMSCs were converted in vitro into insulin-producing cells by suppressing two-repressor genes repressor element-1 silencing transcription factor/neuronal restrictive silencing factor (Rest/Nrsf) and sonic hedgehog (Shh) and by over-expressing pancreas and duodenal transcription factor 1 (Pdx1). The reprogrammed bmMSCs expressed both genes and proteins specific for islet cells. These converted cells were capable of releasing insulin in a glucose-responsive manner. Our study suggests that bmMSCs may ultimately be reprogrammed to functional insulin-secreting cells.

Regulation of connexin expression by transcription factors and epigenetic mechanisms

Gap junctions are specialized cell-cell junctions that directly link the cytoplasm of neighboring cells. They mediate the direct transfer of metabolites and ions from one cell to another. Discoveries of human genetic disorders due to mutations in gap junction protein (connexin [Cx]) genes and experimental data on connexin knockout mice provide direct evidence that gap junctional intercellular communication is essential for tissue functions and organ development, and that its dysfunction causes diseases. Connexin-related signaling also involves extracellular signaling (hemichannels) and non-channel intracellular signaling. Thus far, 21 human genes and 20 mouse genes for connexins have been identified. Each connexin shows tissue- or cell-type-specific expression, and most organs and many cell types express more than one connexin. Connexin expression can be regulated at many of the steps in the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. In recent years, it has become clear that epigenetic processes are also essentially involved in connexin gene expression. In this review, we summarize recent knowledge on regulation of connexin expression by transcription factors and epigenetic mechanisms including histone modifications, DNA methylation, and microRNA. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The communicating junctions, roles and dysfunctions.

Connexin-dependent signaling in neuro-hormonal systems

The advent of multicellular organisms was accompanied by the development of short- and long-range chemical signalling systems, including those provided by the nervous and endocrine systems. In turn, the cells of these two systems have developed mechanisms for interacting with both adjacent and distant cells. With evolution, such mechanisms have diversified to become integrated in a complex regulatory network, whereby individual endocrine and neuro-endocrine cells sense the state of activity of their neighbors and, accordingly, regulate their own level of functioning. A consistent feature of this network is the expression of connexin-made channels between the (neuro)hormone-producing cells of all endocrine glands and secretory regions of the central nervous system so far investigated in vertebrates. This review summarizes the distribution of connexins in the mammalian (neuro)endocrine systems, and what we know about the participation of these proteins on hormone secretion, the life of the producing cells, and the action of (neuro)hormones on specific targets. The data gathered since the last reviews on the topic are summarized, with particular emphasis on the roles of Cx36 in the function of the insulin-producing beta cells of the endocrine pancreas, and of Cx40 in that of the renin-producing juxta-glomerular epithelioid cells of the kidney cortex. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.

Connexins: key mediators of endocrine function

The appearance of multicellular organisms imposed the development of several mechanisms for cell-to-cell communication, whereby different types of cells coordinate their function. Some of these mechanisms depend on the intercellular diffusion of signal molecules in the extracellular spaces, whereas others require cell-to-cell contact. Among the latter mechanisms, those provided by the proteins of the connexin family are widespread in most tissues. Connexin signaling is achieved via direct exchanges of cytosolic molecules between adjacent cells at gap junctions, for cell-to-cell coupling, and possibly also involves the formation of membrane "hemi-channels," for the extracellular release of cytosolic signals, direct interactions between connexins and other cell proteins, and coordinated influence on the expression of multiple genes. Connexin signaling appears to be an obligatory attribute of all multicellular exocrine and endocrine glands. Specifically, the experimental evidence we review here points to a direct participation of the Cx36 isoform in the function of the insulin-producing β-cells of the endocrine pancreas, and of the Cx40 isoform in the function of the renin-producing juxtaglomerular epithelioid cells of the kidney cortex.

The regulation and role of neuronal gap junctions during development

Coupling of neurons by electrical synapses (gap junctions) transiently increases in the mammalian CNS during development and plays a role in a number of developmental events, including neuronal death. The coupling subsequently decreases and remains low in the adult, confined to specific subsets of neurons. In a recent study we have demonstrated that the developmental increase in neuronal gap junction coupling is regulated by the balance between the activity of two neurotransmitter receptors, group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) and GABA(A) receptors. Specifically, we found that activation of group II mGluRs induces the developmental increases in neuronal gap junction coupling and expression of connexin 36 (Cx36; neuronal gap junction protein) and activation of GABA(A) receptors counteracts to these increases. We also established that the regulation by both neurotransmitter receptors is via a neuron-restrictive silencer element in the Cx36 gene promoter and the 3'-untranslated region of the Cx36 mRNA. Importantly, we demonstrated that mechanisms for the developmental increase in neuronal gap junction coupling directly control the death/survival mechanisms in developing neurons.

The RE1 binding protein REST regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation

The RE1-silencing transcription factor (REST) represses the expression of neuronal-specific genes in non-neuronal cells by recruiting histone deacetylases (HDACs) and other histone modifying and chromatin remodeling proteins to the DNA. REST regulation of the expression of neuronal genes is required for the orderly developmental transition from a neuroepithelial stem cell to a functional neuron. Here, we examined the expression and function of REST in neonatal rat oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). OPCs develop from the same neuroepithelial stem cells as neurons, can be reprogrammed to act as neural stem-like cells in vitro, and require HDAC-mediated gene repression to develop into mature oligodendrocytes. We show that OPCs express functional REST protein and that REST interacts with several neuronal-specific genes whose expression is repressed in OPCs. REST transcript and protein expression increased fourfold during the first 48 h of oligodendrocyte differentiation. During this differentiation, the expression of RE1 containing neuronal genes further decreased as the transcription of oligodendrocyte-specific genes was activated. Expression of a dominant-negative form of REST in OPCs prevented the cells from developing into mature MBP-positive oligodendrocytes. Rather, the cells began to develop a neuronal phenotype characterized by increased expression of neuronal proteins, transcription factors, and cell-type-specific marker antigens. REST overexpression promoted the development of O4-positive pre-oligodendrocytes from OPCs. Together, these results show that REST function is required for the differentiation of OPCs into oligodendrocytes. By regulating the expression of neuronal genes, REST may also regulate the phenotypic plasticity of OPCs.

Interplay of chemical neurotransmitters regulates developmental increase in electrical synapses

Coupling of neurons by electrical synapses (gap junctions) transiently increases in the mammalian CNS during development. We report here that the developmental increase in neuronal gap junction coupling and expression of connexin 36 (Cx36; neuronal gap junction protein) are regulated by an interplay between the activity of group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and GABA(A) receptors. Specifically, using dye coupling, electrotonic coupling, Western blots and small interfering RNA in the rat and mouse hypothalamus and cortex in vivo and in vitro, we demonstrate that activation of group II mGluRs augments, and inactivation prevents, the developmental increase in neuronal gap junction coupling and Cx36 expression. However, changes in GABA(A) receptor activity have the opposite effects. The regulation by group II mGluRs is via cAMP/PKA-dependent signaling, and regulation by GABA(A) receptors is via Ca(2+)/PKC-dependent signaling. Furthermore, the receptor-mediated upregulation of Cx36 requires a neuron-restrictive silencer element in the Cx36 gene promoter, and the downregulation involves the 3'-untranslated region of the Cx36 mRNA, as shown using reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR and luciferase reporter activity analysis. In addition, the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium analysis indicates that mechanisms for the developmental increase in neuronal gap junction coupling directly control the death/survival mechanisms in developing neurons. Together, the results suggest a multitiered strategy for chemical synapses in developmental regulation of electrical synapses.

Neuronal restrictive silencing factor silencing induces human amniotic fluid-derived stem cells differentiation into insulin-producing cells

Islet cell replacement represents the most promising approach for the treatment of type I diabetes. However, it is limited by a shortage of pancreas donors. Here, we report that human amniotic fluid-derived stem cells (hAFSCs) can be induced to differentiate into functional insulin-producing cells by knocking down neuronal restrictive silencing factor (NRSF). In this study, lentiviral vectors were used to deliver small interference NRSF (siNRSF) RNA into hAFSCs. After infection with lentivirus containing siNRSF, hAFSCs were successfully induced to differentiate into insulin-producing cells. The differentiated siNRSF-hAFSCs expressed genes specific for islet cells, such as Pdx1, Hnf4α, Isl-1, Nkx6.1, Insulin, and Glut2. These cells also produced and released C-peptide in a glucose-responsive manner. These findings indicated that hAFSCs could be induced to differentiate into insulin-producing β-like cells by NRSF silencing.

Direct association of connexin36 with zonula occludens-2 and zonula occludens-3

The gap junction protein connexin36 (Cx36) is widely expressed in neurons and was previously shown to interact with the PDZ domain-containing protein zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). We investigated whether Cx36 is also able to interact with other members of zonula occludens family of proteins, namely, ZO-2 and ZO-3, the former of which was reported to be co-localized with Cx36 at gap junctions in mouse retina. HeLa cells transfected with Cx36 and cultured betaTC-3 cells were found to express ZO-2 and ZO-3, and both of these ZO proteins were co-localized with Cx36 at gap junctional cell-cell contacts. In lysates of Cx36-transfected HeLa cells, ZO-2 and ZO-3 were shown to co-immunoprecipitate with Cx36, whereas Cx36/ZO-2 association was absent in cells transfected with truncated Cx36 lacking its C-terminus SAYV PDZ interaction motif. In vitro pull-down assays revealed that Cx36 interacts with the PDZ1, but not with the other two PDZ domains in ZO-2 or ZO-3. Truncated Cx36 lacking its PDZ binding motif failed to bind the PDZ1 domain of either ZO-2 or ZO-3. A 14 amino acid peptide corresponding to the C-terminus of Cx36 was also shown to interact with the PDZ1 domains of ZO-2 and ZO-3, and this peptide inhibited the association of Cx36 with the PDZ1 domains of these ZO proteins. These results indicate that Cx36 associates with the first PDZ domain of ZO-2 and ZO-3 and that this association requires the C-terminus SAYV sequence in Cx36. These findings, together with the known association of ZO-2 with a variety of proteins, including transcription factors, suggest that ZO-2 may serve to anchor regulatory proteins at gap junctions composed of Cx36.

Functional diversity for REST (NRSF) is defined by in vivo binding affinity hierarchies at the DNA sequence level

The molecular events that contribute to, and result from, the in vivo binding of transcription factors to their cognate DNA sequence motifs in mammalian genomes are poorly understood. We demonstrate that variations within the DNA sequence motifs that bind the transcriptional repressor REST (NRSF) encode in vivo DNA binding affinity hierarchies that contribute to regulatory function during lineage-specific and developmental programs in fundamental ways. First, canonical sequence motifs for REST facilitate strong REST binding and control functional classes of REST targets that are common to all cell types, whilst atypical motifs participate in weak interactions and control those targets, which are cell- or tissue-specific. Second, variations in REST binding relate directly to variations in expression and chromatin configurations of REST's target genes. Third, REST clearance from its binding sites is also associated with variations in the RE1 motif. Finally, and most surprisingly, weak REST binding sites reside in DNA sequences that show the highest levels of constraint through evolution, thus facilitating their roles in maintaining tissue-specific functions. These relationships have never been reported in mammalian systems for any transcription factor.

Chemically-induced RAT mesenchymal stem cells adopt molecular properties of neuronal-like cells but do not have basic neuronal functional properties

Induction of adult rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) by means of chemical compounds (beta-mercaptoethanol, dimethyl sulfoxide and butylated hydroxyanizole) has been proposed to lead to neuronal transdifferentiation, and this protocol has been broadly used by several laboratories worldwide. Only a few hours of MSC chemical induction using this protocol is sufficient for the acquisition of neuronal-like morphology and neuronal protein expression. However, given that cell death is abundant, we hypothesize that, rather than true neuronal differentiation, this particular protocol leads to cellular toxic effects. We confirm that the induced cells with neuronal-like morphology positively stained for NF-200, S100, beta-tubulin III, NSE and MAP-2 proteins. However, the morphological and molecular changes after chemical induction are also associated with an increase in the apoptosis of over 50% of the plated cells after 24 h. Moreover, increased intracellular cysteine after treatment indicates an impairment of redox circuitry during chemical induction, and in vitro electrophysiological recordings (patch-clamp) of the chemically induced MSC did not indicate neuronal properties as these cells do not exhibit Na(+) or K(+) currents and do not fire action potentials. Our findings suggest that a disruption of redox circuitry plays an important role in this specific chemical induction protocol, which might result in cytoskeletal alterations and loss of functional ion-gated channels followed by cell death. Despite the neuronal-like morphology and neural protein expression, induced rat bone marrow MSC do not have basic functional neuronal properties, although it is still plausible that other methods of induction and/or sources of MSC can achieve a successful neuronal differentiation in vitro.

Beta amyloid and hyperphosphorylated tau deposits in the pancreas in type 2 diabetes

Strong epidemiologic evidence suggests an association between Alzheimer disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes. To determine if amyloid beta (Abeta) and hyperphosphorylated tau occurs in type 2 diabetes, pancreas tissues from 21 autopsy cases (10 type 2 diabetes and 11 controls) were analyzed. APP and tau mRNAs were identified in human pancreas and in cultured insulinoma beta cells (INS-1) by RT-PCR. Prominent APP and tau bands were detected by Western blotting in pancreatic extracts. Aggregated Abeta, hyperphosphorylated tau, ubiquitin, apolipoprotein E, apolipoprotein(a), IB1/JIP-1 and JNK1 were detected in Langerhans islets in type 2 diabetic patients. Abeta was co-localized with amylin in islet amyloid deposits. In situ beta sheet formation of islet amyloid deposits was shown by infrared microspectroscopy (SIRMS). LPS increased APP in non-neuronal cells as well. We conclude that Abeta deposits and hyperphosphorylated tau are also associated with type 2 diabetes, highlighting common pathogenetic features in neurodegenerative disorders, including AD and type 2 diabetes and suggesting that Abeta deposits and hyperphosphorylated tau may also occur in other organs than the brain.

Functional significance of repressor element 1 silencing transcription factor (REST) target genes in pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The expression of several neuronal genes in pancreatic beta cells is due to the absence of the transcription factor repressor element 1 (RE-1) silencing transcription factor (REST). The identification of these traits and their functional significance in beta cells has only been partly elucidated. Herein, we investigated the biological consequences of a repression of REST target genes by expressing REST in beta cells.

METHODS

The effect of REST expression on glucose homeostasis, insulin content and release, and beta cell mass was analysed in transgenic mice selectively expressing REST in beta cells. Relevant target genes were identified in INS-1E and primary beta cells expressing REST.

RESULTS

Transgenic mice featuring a beta cell-targeted expression of REST exhibited glucose intolerance and reduced beta cell mass. In primary beta cells, REST repressed several proteins of the exocytotic machinery, including synaptosomal-associated protein (SNAP) 25, synaptotagmin (SYT) IV, SYT VII, SYT IX and complexin II; it impaired first and second phases of insulin secretion. Using RNA interference in INS-1E cells, we showed that SYT IV and SYT VII were implicated in the control of insulin release.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

The data document the critical role of REST target genes in pancreatic beta cells. Specifically, we provide evidence that the downregulation of these genes is detrimental for the exocytosis of large dense core vesicles, thus contributing to beta cell dysfunction and impaired glucose homeostasis.

ICER-1gamma overexpression drives palmitate-mediated connexin36 down-regulation in insulin-secreting cells

Channels formed by the gap junction protein connexin36 (Cx36) contribute to the proper control of insulin secretion. We investigated the impact of chronic hyperlipidemia on Cx36 expression in pancreatic beta-cells. Prolonged exposure to the saturated free fatty acid palmitate reduced the expression of Cx36 in several insulin-secreting cell lines and isolated mouse islets. The effect of palmitate was fully blocked upon protein kinase A (PKA) inhibition by H89 and (Rp)-cAMP, indicating that the cAMP/PKA pathway is involved in the control of Cx36 expression. Palmitate treatment led to overexpression of the inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER-1gamma), which bound to a functional cAMP-response element located in the promoter of the CX36 gene. Inhibition of ICER-1gamma overexpression prevented the Cx36 decrease, as well as the palmitate-induced beta-cell secretory dysfunction. Finally, freshly isolated islets from mice undergoing a long term high fat diet expressed reduced Cx36 levels and increased ICER-1gamma levels. Taken together, these data demonstrate that chronic exposure to palmitate inhibits the Cx36 expression through PKA-mediated ICER-1gamma overexpression. This Cx36 down-regulation may contribute to the reduced glucose sensitivity and altered insulin secretion observed during the pre-diabetic stage and in the metabolic syndrome.

Islet-cell-to-cell communication as basis for normal insulin secretion

The emergence of pancreatic islets has necessitated the development of a signalling system for the intra- and inter-islet coordination of beta cells. With evolution, this system has evolved into a complex regulatory network of partially cross-talking pathways, whereby individual cells sense the state of activity of their neighbours and, accordingly, regulate their own level of functioning. A consistent feature of this network in vertebrates is the expression of connexin (Cx)-36-made cell-to-cell channels, which cluster at gap junction domains of the cell membrane, and which adjacent beta cells use to share cytoplasmic ions and small metabolites within individual islets. This chapter reviews what is known about Cx36, and the mechanism whereby this beta-cell connexin significantly regulates insulin secretion. It further outlines other less established functions of the protein and evaluates its potential relevance for the development of novel therapeutic approaches to diabetes.

Complex regulation of human cathelicidin gene expression: novel splice variants and 5'UTR negative regulatory element

Cationic antimicrobial peptides play important roles in host defense, linking innate and adaptive immunity. hCAP18, the only human antimicrobial cathelicidin, consists of a conserved N-terminal cathelin-like domain and a C-terminal peptide, LL-37. Expression is regulated during myeloid differentiation, and tightly controlled during infection and inflammation, suggesting active regulation. Using 5' RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends), multiple transcription initiation sites were identified, as well as new splice variants leading to novel augmentations of hCAP18 amino acid composition in bone marrow but not peripheral blood neutrophils. Having expressed hCAP18 promoter constructs in cell lines, we found that full-length (-1739) and truncated (-978) promoter constructs had lower luciferase activities than 5'UTR deletion constructs. Transient transfection of progressively deleted constructs in the non-permissive K562 cell line led us to identify a negative regulatory element within the 53 bp immediately upstream of the ATG of hCAP18. Additionally, transient transfection of 5' deletion constructs identified a positive regulatory element within the 101 bases 5' of promoter sequence containing two GT-boxes. Negative and positive regulatory elements within the hCAP18 gene promoter provide new insights into the possible molecular basis of myeloid gene expression.

Promoter characterization and transcriptional regulation of Ncb5or, a novel reductase necessary for pancreatic beta-cell maintenance

Ncb5or is a ubiquitously expressed gene required for beta-cell survival in mice. Examination of mouse tissues demonstrated high levels of expression in the pancreas, heart and kidney. A transcription start site was identified 149 bp upstream from the start codon and transient expression analysis in betaTC3 cells indicated the presence of a core promoter located within 348 bp upstream of this site. Deletion of Region C (-216/-157) resulted in a significant decrease in promoter activity and specific nucleotides located in a region designated C2 were demonstrated to be critical for complex binding. Deletion of Region D (-60/-33), which contains multiple consensus Sp1 sites, resulted in an additional loss of promoter activity. The data presented here identify and characterize the previously unknown promoter of Ncb5or, a reductase critical for beta-cell survival.

Connexin36 and pancreatic beta-cell functions

Most cell types are functionally coupled by connexin (Cx) channels, i.e. exchange cytoplasmic ions and small metabolites through gap junction domains of their membrane. This form of direct cell-to-cell communication occurs in all existing animals, whatever their position in the phylogenetic scale, and up to humans. Pancreatic beta-cells are no exception, and normally cross-talk with their neighbors via channels made of Cx36. These exchanges importantly contribute to coordinate and synchronize the function of individual cells within pancreatic islets, particularly in the context of glucose-induced insulin secretion. Compelling evidence now indicates that Cx36-mediated coupling, and/or the Cx36 protein per se, play significant regulatory roles in various beta-cell functions, ranging from the biosynthesis, storage and release of insulin. Recent preliminary data further suggest that the protein may also be implicated in the balance of beta-cell growth versus necrosis and apoptosis, and in the regulated expression of specific genes. Here, we review this evidence, discuss the possible involvement of Cx36 in the pathophysiology of diabetes, and evaluate the relevance of this connexin in the therapeutic approaches to the disease.

Extended cocaine self-administration and deprivation produces region-specific and time-dependent changes in connexin36 expression in rat brain

Cocaine addiction is a disease that develops over time, and it is thought that drug-induced neuro-adaptations underlie the changes in behavior seen across the addictive process. While a number of alterations in synaptic transmission have been identified, little is currently known regarding cocaine's effects on gap junctional communication between neurons. Here we examine the effects of a cocaine self-administration regimen, previously shown to increase the reinforcing efficacy of cocaine, on the expression of the neuron-specific gap junction-forming protein connexin36 (C x 36). Using real-time RT-PCR and immunoblotting, we show that binge cocaine self-administration produces region-specific and time-dependent changes in C x 36 mRNA and protein expression in the nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. A number of changes in C x 36 were present 1 day and 7 days following self-administration, and C x 36 mRNA and protein appeared to be differentially regulated in a region-specific manner. C x 36 protein was significantly decreased in the prefrontal cortex 7 days following self-administration, a time point when behavioral sensitization to the reinforcing effects of cocaine is observed. These results suggest that changes in neuronal gap junction expression may be one mechanism by which cocaine self-administration produces enduring changes in behavior.

Involvement of gap junctional communication in secretion

Glands were the first type of tissues in which the permissive role of gap junctions in the cell-to-cell transfer of membrane-impermeant molecules was shown. During the 40 years that have followed this seminal finding, gap junctions have been documented in all types of multicellular secretory systems, whether of the exocrine, endocrine or pheromonal nature. Also, compelling evidence now indicates that gap junction-mediated coupling, and/or the connexin proteins per se, play significant regulatory roles in various aspects of gland functions, ranging from the biosynthesis, storage and release of a variety of secretory products, to the control of the growth and differentiation of secretory cells, and to the regulation of gland morphogenesis. This review summarizes this evidence in the light of recent reports.

Regulation of connexin expression

Gap junctions contain cell-cell communicating channels that consist of multimeric proteins called connexins and mediate the exchange of low-molecular-weight metabolites and ions between contacting cells. Gap junctional communication has long been hypothesized to play a crucial role in the maintenance of homeostasis, morphogenesis, cell differentiation, and growth control in multicellular organisms. The recent discovery that human genetic disorders are associated with mutations in connexin genes and experimental data on connexin knockout mice have provided direct evidence that gap junctional communication is essential for tissue functions and organ development. Thus far, 21 human genes and 20 mouse genes for connexins have been identified. Each connexin shows tissue- or cell-type-specific expression, and most organs and many cell types express more than one connexin. Cell coupling via gap junctions is dependent on the specific pattern of connexin gene expression. This pattern of gene expression is altered during development and in several pathological conditions resulting in changes of cell coupling. Connexin expression can be regulated at many of the steps in the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. However, transcriptional control is one of the most important points. In this review, we summarize recent knowledge on transcriptional regulation of connexin genes by describing the structure of connexin genes and transcriptional factors that regulate connexin expression.

Glucose represses connexin36 in insulin-secreting cells

The gap-junction protein connexin36 (Cx36) contributes to control the functions of insulin-producing cells. In this study, we investigated whether the expression of Cx36 is regulated by glucose in insulin-producing cells. Glucose caused a significant reduction of Cx36 in insulin-secreting cell lines and freshly isolated pancreatic rat islets. This decrease appeared at the mRNA and the protein levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. 2-Deoxyglucose partially reproduced the effect of glucose, whereas glucosamine, 3-O-methyl-D-glucose and leucine were ineffective. Moreover, KCl-induced depolarization of beta-cells had no effect on Cx36 expression, indicating that glucose metabolism and ATP production are not mandatory for glucose-induced Cx36 downregulation. Forskolin mimicked the repression of Cx36 by glucose. Glucose or forskolin effects on Cx36 expression were not suppressed by the L-type Ca(2+)-channel blocker nifedipine but were fully blunted by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor H89. A 4 kb fragment of the human Cx36 promoter was identified and sequenced. Reporter-gene activity driven by various Cx36 promoter fragments indicated that Cx36 repression requires the presence of a highly conserved cAMP responsive element (CRE). Electrophoretic-mobility-shift assays revealed that, in the presence of a high glucose concentration, the binding activity of the repressor CRE-modulator 1 (CREM-1) is enhanced. Taken together, these data provide evidence that glucose represses the expression of Cx36 through the cAMP-PKA pathway, which activates a member of the CRE binding protein family.

Cell type-specific regulation of RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) target genes

RE-1 silencing transcription factor (REST) is a transcriptional repressor that represses neuronal gene transcription in non-neuronal cells. REST target genes are expressed in neurons and in neuroendocrine cells. Here, we show that treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) or expression of a mutant of REST (DP-REST:ER) that contains a transcriptional activation domain enhanced expression of the REST target genes encoding synaptophysin and secretogranin II in neuronal as well as in neuroendocrine cells. These data indicate that the synaptophysin and secretogranin II genes are similarly regulated in neuronal and neuroendocrine cells. In contrast, expression of the connexin36 gene was inducible by TSA or DP-REST:ER only in pancreatic alpha and beta cells, but not in neuronal and pituitary cells, indicating that transcriptional repression by REST functions in a cell type-specific manner. Expression of the BDNF and GluR2 genes, both described as targets of REST, was not induced by either TSA or expression of DP-REST:ER in neuronal or neuroendocrine cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments using antibodies directed against methylated histone H3Lys4 or H3Lys9 showed a perfect correlation between expression of REST target genes in different cell types and nucleosomal modifications that distinguish active from inactive genes. We conclude that the cell type-specific microenvironment, in particular the cell type-specific structure of the chromatin, is crucial for the ability of REST to control gene transcription.

The hairy and enhancer of split 1 is a negative regulator of the repressor element silencer transcription factor

Silencing of the transcriptional repressor REST is required for terminal differentiation of neuronal and beta-cells. In this study, we hypothesized that REST expression is controlled by hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES-1), a transcriptional repressor that plays an important role in brain and pancreas development. We identified several N elements (CTNGTG) within the promoter of REST and confirmed that HES-1 associates with the endogenous promoter of REST. Moreover, using a cells model that overexpress HES-1 and a combination of experimental approaches, we demonstrated that HES-1 reduces endogenous REST expression. Taken together, these results indicate that HES-1 is an upstream negative regulator of REST expression.