Interferon-gamma down-regulates adenosine 2b receptor-mediated signaling and short circuit current in the intestinal epithelia by inhibiting the expression of adenylate cyclase

Intestinal secretory mechanisms and diarrhea

One of the primary functions of the intestinal epithelium is to transport fluid and electrolytes to and from the luminal contents. Under normal circumstances, absorptive and secretory processes are tightly regulated such that absorption predominates, thereby enabling conservation of the large volumes of water that pass through the intestine each day. However, in conditions of secretory diarrhea, this balance becomes dysregulated, so that fluid secretion, driven primarily by Cl- secretion, overwhelms absorptive capacity, leading to increased loss of water in the stool. Secretory diarrheas are common and include those induced by pathogenic bacteria and viruses, allergens, and disruptions to bile acid homeostasis, or as a side effect of many drugs. Here, we review the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Cl- and fluid secretion in the intestine are regulated, how these mechanisms become dysregulated in conditions of secretory diarrhea, currently available and emerging therapeutic approaches, and how new strategies to exploit intestinal secretory mechanisms are successfully being used in the treatment of constipation.

Hydrogen sulfide inhibits A2A adenosine receptor agonist induced β-amyloid production in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells via a cAMP dependent pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of senile dementia in today's society. Its debilitating symptoms are manifested by disturbances in many important brain functions, which are influenced by adenosine. Hence, adenosinergic system is considered as a potential therapeutic target in AD treatment. In the present study, we found that sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS, an H2S donor, 100 µM) attenuated HENECA (a selective A2A receptor agonist, 10-200 nM) induced β-amyloid (1-42) (Aβ42) production in SH-SY5Y cells. NaHS also interfered with HENECA-stimulated production and post-translational modification of amyloid precursor protein (APP) by inhibiting its maturation. Measurement of the C-terminal APP fragments generated from its enzymatic cleavage by β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) showed that NaHS did not have any significant effect on β-secretase activity. However, the direct measurements of HENECA-elevated γ-secretase activity and mRNA expressions of presenilins suggested that the suppression of Aβ42 production in NaHS pretreated cells was mediated by inhibiting γ-secretase. NaHS induced reductions were accompanied by similar decreases in intracellular cAMP levels and phosphorylation of cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB). NaHS significantly reduced the elevated cAMP and Aβ42 production caused by forskolin (an adenylyl cyclase, AC agonist) alone or forskolin in combination with IBMX (a phosphodiesterase inhibitor), but had no effect on those caused by IBMX alone. Moreover, pretreatment with NaHS significantly attenuated HENECA-elevated AC activity and mRNA expressions of various AC isoforms. These data suggest that NaHS may preferentially suppress AC activity when it was stimulated. In conclusion, H2S attenuated HENECA induced Aβ42 production in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells through inhibiting γ-secretase via a cAMP dependent pathway.

Hydrogen sulfide attenuates opioid dependence by suppression of adenylate cyclase/cAMP pathway

AIMS

The best-established mechanism of opioid dependence is the up-regulation of adenylate cyclase (AC)/cAMP pathway, which was reported to be negatively regulated by hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a novel endogenous neuromodulator. The present study was, therefore, designed to determine whether H2S is able to attenuate the development of opioid dependence via down-regulating AC/cAMP pathway.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that application of sodium hydrosulphide (NaHS) and GYY4137, two donors of H2S, significantly alleviated naloxone-induced robust withdrawal jumping (the most sensitive and reliable index of opioid physical dependence) in morphine-treated mice. Repeated treatment with NaHS inhibited the up-regulated protein expression of AC in the striatum of morphine-dependent mice. Furthermore, NaHS also attenuated morphine/naloxone-elevated mRNA levels of AC isoform 1 and 8, production of cAMP, and phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) in mice striatum. These effects were mimicked by the application of exogenous H2S or over-expression of cystathione-β-synthase, an H2S -producing enzyme, in SH-SY5Y neuronal cells on treatment with [D-Ala(2),N-Me-Phe(4),Gly(5)-ol]-Enkephalin, a selective μ-opioid receptor agonist. Blockade of extracellular-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) with its specific inhibitor attenuated naloxone-induced CREB phosphorylation. Pretreatment with NaHS or stimulation of endogenous H2S production also significantly suppressed opioid withdrawal-induced ERK1/2 activation in mice striatum or SH-SY5Y cells.

INNOVATION

H2S treatment is important in prevention of the development of opioid dependence via suppression of cAMP pathway in both animal and cellular models.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest a potential role of H2S in attenuating the development of opioid dependence, and the underlying mechanism is closely related to the inhibition of AC/cAMP pathway.

5'-AMP impacts lymphocyte recirculation through activation of A2B receptors

Natural hibernation consists of torpid phases with metabolic suppression alternating with euthermic periods. Induction of torpor holds substantial promise in various medical conditions, including trauma, major surgery, and transplantation. Torpor in mice can be induced pharmacologically by 5'-AMP. Previously, we showed that during natural torpor, the reduction in body temperature results in lymphopenia via a reduction in plasma S1P. Here, we show that during torpor induced by 5'-AMP, there is a similar reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes that is a result of their retention in secondary lymphoid organs. This lymphopenia could be mimicked by engagement of A(2B)Rs by a selective A(2B)R agonist (LUF6210) in the absence of changes in temperature and prevented by A(2B)R antagonists during 5'-AMP-induced torpor. In addition, forced cooling of mice led to peripheral blood lymphopenia, independent of A(2B)R signaling. The induction of torpor using 5'-AMP impacted the migration of lymphocytes within and between secondary lymphoid organs. During torpor, the homing into LNs was impaired, and two-photon intravital microscopy revealed that cell motility was decreased significantly and rapidly upon 5'-AMP administration. Furthermore, the S1P plasma concentration was reduced by 5'-AMP but not by LUF6210. S1P plasma levels restored upon arousal. Likely, the reduced migration in LNs combined with the reduced S1P plasma level substantially reduces lymphocyte egress after injection of 5'-AMP. In conclusion, 5'-AMP induces a state of pharmacological torpor in mice, during which, lymphopenia is governed primarily by body temperature-independent suppression of lymphocyte egress from LNs.

Suppression of adenosine-activated chloride transport by ethanol in airway epithelia

Alcohol abuse is associated with increased lung infections. Molecular understanding of the underlying mechanisms is not complete. Airway epithelial ion transport regulates the homeostasis of airway surface liquid, essential for airway mucosal immunity and lung host defense. Here, air-liquid interface cultures of Calu-3 epithelial cells were basolaterally exposed to physiologically relevant concentrations of ethanol (0, 25, 50 and 100 mM) for 24 hours and adenosine-stimulated ion transport was measured by Ussing chamber. The ethanol exposure reduced the epithelial short-circuit currents (I(SC)) in a dose-dependent manner. The ion currents activated by adenosine were chloride conductance mediated by cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), a cAMP-activated chloride channel. Alloxazine, a specific inhibitor for A(2B) adenosine receptor (A(2B)AR), largely abolished the adenosine-stimulated chloride transport, suggesting that A(2B)AR is a major receptor responsible for regulating the chloride transport of the cells. Ethanol significantly reduced intracellular cAMP production upon adenosine stimulation. Moreover, ethanol-suppression of the chloride secretion was able to be restored by cAMP analogs or by inhibitors to block cAMP degradation. These results imply that ethanol exposure dysregulates CFTR-mediated chloride transport in airways by suppression of adenosine-A(2B)AR-cAMP signaling pathway, which might contribute to alcohol-associated lung infections.

Intestinal inflammation and the enterocyte transportome

Diarrhoea is a hallmark of intestinal inflammation. The mechanisms operating in acute inflammation of the intestine are well characterized and are related to regulatory changes induced by inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins, cytokines or reactive oxygen species, along with leakage due to epithelial injury and changes in permeability. In chronic colitis, however, the mechanisms are less well known, but it is generally accepted that both secretory and absorptive processes are inhibited. These disturbances in ionic transport may be viewed as an adaptation to protracted inflammation of the intestine, since prolonged intense secretion may be physiologically unacceptable in the long term. Mechanistically, the changes in transport may be due to adjustments in the regulation of the different processes involved, to broader epithelial alterations or frank damage, or to modulation of the transportome in terms of expression. In the present review, we offer a summary of the existing evidence on the status of the transportome in chronic intestinal inflammation.

Role of adenosine A(2B) receptors in inflammation

Recent progress in our understanding of the unique role of A(2B) receptors in the regulation of inflammation, immunity, and tissue repair was considerably facilitated with the introduction of new pharmacological and genetic tools. However, it also led to seemingly conflicting conclusions on the role of A(2B) adenosine receptors in inflammation with some publications indicating proinflammatory effects and others suggesting the opposite. This chapter reviews the functions of A(2B) receptors in various cell types related to inflammation and integrated effects of A(2B) receptor modulation in several animal models of inflammation. It is argued that translation of current findings into novel therapies would require a better understanding of A(2B) receptor functions in diverse types of inflammatory responses in various tissues and at different points of their progression.

The resurgence of A2B adenosine receptor signaling

Since its discovery as a low-affinity adenosine receptor (AR), the A2B receptor (A2BAR), has proven enigmatic in its function. The previous discovery of the A2AAR, which shares many similarities with the A2BAR but demonstrates significantly greater affinity for its endogenous ligand, led to the original perception that the A2BAR was not of substantial physiologic relevance. In addition, lack of specific pharmacological agents targeting the A2BAR made its initial characterization challenging. However, the importance of this receptor was reconsidered when it was observed that the A2BAR is highly transcriptionally regulated by factors implicated in inflammatory hypoxia. Moreover, the notion that during ischemia or inflammation extracellular adenosine is dramatically elevated to levels sufficient for A2BAR activation, indicated that A2BAR signaling may be important to dampen inflammation particularly during tissue hypoxia. In addition, the recent advent of techniques for murine genetic manipulation along with development of pharmacological agents with enhanced A2BAR specificity has provided invaluable tools for focused studies on the explicit role of A2BAR signaling in different disease models. Currently, studies performed with combined genetic and pharmacological approaches have demonstrated that A2BAR signaling plays a tissue protective role in many models of acute diseases e.g. myocardial ischemia, or acute lung injury. These studies indicate that the A2BAR is expressed on a wide variety of cell types and exerts tissue/cell specific effects. This is an important consideration for future studies where tissue or cell type specific targeting of the A2BAR may be used as therapeutic approach.

Adenosine 2B receptor expression is post-transcriptionally regulated by microRNA

We have reported that epithelial adenosine 2B receptor (A(2B)AR) mRNA and protein are up-regulated in colitis, which we demonstrated to be regulated by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Here, we examined the mechanism that governs A(2B)AR expression during colitis. A 1.4-kb sequence of the A(2B)AR promoter was cloned into the pFRL7 luciferase vector. Anti-microRNA (miRNA) was custom-synthesized based on specific miRNA binding sites. The binding of miRNA to the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of A(2B)AR mRNA was examined by cloning this 3'-UTR downstream of the luciferase gene in pMIR-REPORT. In T84 cells, TNF-alpha induced a 35-fold increase in A(2B)AR mRNA but did not increase promoter activity in luciferase assays. By nuclear run-on assay, no increase in A(2B)AR mRNA following TNF-alpha treatment was observed. Four putative miRNA target sites (miR27a, miR27b, miR128a, miR128b) in the 3'-UTR of the A(2B)AR mRNA were identified in T84 cells and mouse colon. Pretreatment of cells with TNF-alpha reduced the levels of miR27b and miR128a by 60%. Over expression of pre-miR27b and pre-miR128a reduced A(2B)AR levels by >60%. Blockade of miR27b increased A(2B)AR mRNA levels by 6-fold in vitro. miR27b levels declined significantly in colitis-affected tissue in mice in the presence of increased A(2B)AR mRNA. Collectively, these data demonstrate that TNF-alpha-induced A(2B)AR expression in colonic epithelial cells is post-transcriptionally regulated by miR27b and miR128a and show that miR27b influences A(2B)AR expression in murine colitis.

Coordinate down-regulation of adenylyl cyclase isoforms and the stimulatory G protein (G(s)) in intestinal epithelial cell differentiation

The intestinal epithelium is dynamic, with proliferation of undifferentiated crypt cells balanced by terminal differentiation and cell death at the colon surface or small intestinal villus tips. Cyclic AMP, induced by agonists such as prostaglandin E(2) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, promotes proliferation and ion secretion and suppresses apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells. Here, we show that cell differentiation in a model intestinal epithelium leads to attenuation of cAMP production in response to G protein-coupled receptor and receptor-independent agonists. Concomitantly, key components of the cAMP cascade, the alpha subunit of the stimulatory G protein, G(s), and adenylyl cyclase (AC) isoforms 3, 4, 6, and 7 are down-regulated. By contrast, AC1, AC2, AC8, and AC9, and the receptors for prostaglandin E(2) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, are not expressed or not affected by differentiation. We confirmed key findings in normal murine colon epithelium, in which the major AC isoforms and G(s)alpha are markedly down-regulated in differentiated surface cells. Suppression of AC isoforms and G(s)alpha is functionally important, because their constitutive expression completely reverses differentiation-induced cAMP attenuation. Thus, down-regulation of AC isoforms and G(s)alpha is an integral part of the intestinal epithelial differentiation program, perhaps serving to release cells from cAMP-promoted anti-apoptosis as a prerequisite for cell death upon terminal differentiation.

Good fences make good neighbors: Gastrointestinal mucosal structure

The gastrointestinal lumen is home to over 400 species of microorganisms. The composition of this microbial community varies along the length of the gastrointestinal tract as a function of regional epithelial secretory activity as well as diet and other defined and undefined determinants. Improved understanding of the factors that impact luminal microbial populations and development of means to modulate gut microbes for therapeutic benefit hold great promise. The gastrointestinal epithelium, which regulates interactions between microbes and the mammalian host, is the topic of this review.

Adenosine 2B receptors (A(2B)AR) on enteric neurons regulate murine distal colonic motility

Delayed colonic emptying leading to constipation is a significant health concern. We investigated the role of adenosine 2B receptor (A(2B)AR) in modulating distal colonic motility using wild-type and A(2B)AR-knockout (A(2B)AR(-/-)) mice. Colon motility was assessed using stool characteristics and colonic transit. Distal colonic ganglia, isolated by laser capture microdissection, were tested for A(2B)AR expression by RT-PCR. The distal colon contraction and relaxation responses were assessed by electrical field stimulation (EFS) in presence of A(2B)AR agonists, antagonists or inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) and guanylate cyclase. Nitrite levels were measured in enteric neuronal cultures exposed to A(2B)AR agonists/antagonists. A(2B)AR(-/-) mice display increased stool retention, decreased stool frequency, delayed colonic emptying, and decreased circular muscle relaxation. RT-PCR identified A(2B)AR expression in distal colonic ganglia. EFS studies revealed that enteric neuronal A(2B)AR is essential for distal colonic relaxation, and A(2B)AR antagonists can inhibit relaxation. Enteric neurons stimulated with A(2B)AR agonists produced more nitrite than cultures treated with antagonists. We demonstrate an essential role of A(2B)AR in regulating distal colon relaxation, as A(2B)AR activation is linked to NO signaling. Hence targeting the colonic A(2B)AR could represent a novel therapeutic strategy to treat constipation.

Adenosine signaling contributes to ethanol-induced fatty liver in mice

Fatty liver is commonly associated with alcohol ingestion and abuse. While the molecular pathogenesis of these fatty changes is well understood, the biochemical and pharmacological mechanisms by which ethanol stimulates these molecular changes remain unknown. During ethanol metabolism, adenosine is generated by the enzyme ecto-5'-nucleotidase, and adenosine production and adenosine receptor activation are known to play critical roles in the development of hepatic fibrosis. We therefore investigated whether adenosine and its receptors play a role in the development of alcohol-induced fatty liver. WT mice fed ethanol on the Lieber-DeCarli diet developed hepatic steatosis, including increased hepatic triglyceride content, while mice lacking ecto-5'-nucleotidase or adenosine A1 or A2B receptors were protected from developing fatty liver. Similar protection was also seen in WT mice treated with either an adenosine A1 or A2B receptor antagonist. Steatotic livers demonstrated increased expression of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis, which was prevented by blockade of adenosine A1 receptors, and decreased expression of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, which was prevented by blockade of adenosine A2B receptors. In vitro studies supported roles for adenosine A1 receptors in promoting fatty acid synthesis and for A2B receptors in decreasing fatty acid metabolism. These results indicate that adenosine generated by ethanol metabolism plays an important role in ethanol-induced hepatic steatosis via both A1 and A2B receptors and suggest that targeting adenosine receptors may be effective in the prevention of alcohol-induced fatty liver.

Molecular bases of impaired water and ion movements in inflammatory bowel diseases

The intestine is dedicated to the absorption of water and nutrients. Fine tuning of this process is necessary to maintain an adequate balance and inflammation disrupts the equilibrium. This review summarizes the current evidence in this field. Classical mechanisms proposed include alteration of epithelial integrity, augmented secretion, and reduced absorption. In addition, intestinal inflammation is associated with defects in epithelial barrier function. However, our understanding of the phenomenon has been complicated by the fact that ionic secretion is in fact diminished in vivo, even after inflammation has subsided. Inhibited ionic secretion can be reversed partially or totally in vitro by maneuvers such as blockade of inducible nitric oxide synthase or removal of the submucosal layer. Disturbances in ionic absorption are less well characterized but clearly involve both electroneutral and electrogenic Na(+) absorption. Altered ionic transport is associated with changes in the expression and function of the transporters, including the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase, the sodium/potassium/chloride cotransporter 1 (NKCC1), the sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3), and the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), as well as to the modulation of intracellular signaling. Further investigation is needed in this area in order to provide an integrated paradigm of ionic transport in the inflamed intestine. In particular, we do not know exactly how diarrhea ensues in inflammation and, consequently, we do not have specific pharmacological tools to combat this condition effectively and without side effects. Moreover, whether transport disturbances are reversible independently of inflammatory control is unknown.

Adenosine receptors and inflammation

Extracellular adenosine is produced in a coordinated manner from cells following cellular challenge or tissue injury. Once produced, it serves as an autocrine- and paracrine-signaling molecule through its interactions with seven-membrane-spanning G-protein-coupled adenosine receptors. These signaling pathways have widespread physiological and pathophysiological functions. Immune cells express adenosine receptors and respond to adenosine or adenosine agonists in diverse manners. Extensive in vitro and in vivo studies have identified potent anti-inflammatory functions for all of the adenosine receptors on many different inflammatory cells and in various inflammatory disease processes. In addition, specific proinflammatory functions have also been ascribed to adenosine receptor activation. The potent effects of adenosine signaling on the regulation of inflammation suggest that targeting specific adenosine receptor activation or inactivation using selective agonists and antagonists could have important therapeutic implications in numerous diseases. This review is designed to summarize the current status of adenosine receptor signaling in various inflammatory cells and in models of inflammation, with an emphasis on the advancement of adenosine-based therapeutics to treat inflammatory disorders.

Mechanisms of induction of adenosine receptor genes and its functional significance

Adenosine is a metabolite generated and released from cells, particularly under injury or stress. It elicits protective or damaging responses via signaling through the adenosine receptors, including the adenylyl cyclase inhibitory A(1) and A(3), and the adenylyl cyclase stimulatory A(2A) and A(2B). Multiple adenosine receptor types, including stimulatory and inhibitory, can be found in the same cell, suggesting that a careful balance of adenosine receptor expression in a particular cell is necessary for a specific adenosine-induced response. This balance could be controlled by differential expression of the adenosine receptor genes under different stimuli. Here, we have reviewed an array of studies that have characterized basal or induced expression of the adenosine receptors and common as well as distinct mechanisms of effect, in hopes that ongoing studies on this topic will further elucidate detailed mechanisms of adenosine receptor regulation, leading to potential therapeutic applications.

Short-term TNF-Alpha treatment induced A2B adenosine receptor desensitization in human astroglial cells

Long-term glial cell treatment with the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha has been demonstrated to increase the functional responsiveness of A(2B) adenosine receptors (A(2B) ARs), which in turn synergize with the cytokine inducing chronic astrogliosis. In the present study, we investigated the short-term effects of TNF-alpha on A(2B) AR functional responses in human astroglial cells (ADF), thus simulating the acute phase of cerebral damage which is characterized by both cytokine and adenosine high level release. Short-term TNF-alpha cell treatment caused A(2B) AR phosphorylation inducing, in turn, impairment in A(2B) AR-G protein coupling and cAMP production. These effects occurred in a time-dependent manner with a maximum following 3-h cell exposure. Moreover, we showed PKC intracellular kinase is mainly involved in the TNF-alpha-mediated regulation of A(2B) AR functional responses. The results may indicate the A(2B) AR functional impairment as a cell defense mechanism to counteract the A(2B) receptor-mediated effects during the acute phase of brain damage, underlying A(2B) AR as a target to modulate early inflammatory responses.

Blockade of adenosine A2B receptors ameliorates murine colitis

Background and purpose:

The adenosine 2B (A_2B) receptor is the predominant adenosine receptor expressed in the colon. Acting through the A_2B receptor, adenosine mediates chloride secretion, as well as fibronectin and interleukin (IL)-6 synthesis and secretion in intestinal epithelial cells. A_2B receptor mRNA and protein expression are increased during human and murine colitis. However, the effect of the A_2B receptor in the activation of the intestinal inflammatory response is not known. In this study, we examined the effect of A_2B receptor antagonism on murine colitis.

Experimental approach:

Dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-treated mice and piroxicam-treated IL-10^−/− mice were used as animal models of colitis. The A_2B receptor-selective antagonist, ATL-801, was given in the diet.

Key results:

Mice fed ATL-801 along with DSS showed a significantly lower extent and severity of colitis than mice treated with DSS alone, as shown by reduced clinical symptoms, histological scores, IL-6 levels and proliferation indices. The administration of ATL-801 prevented weight loss, suppressed the inflammatory infiltrate into colonic mucosa and decreased epithelial hyperplasia in piroxicam-treated IL-10^−/− mice. IL-6 and keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC) concentrations in the supernatants of colonic organ cultures from colitic mice were significantly reduced by ATL-801 administration.

Conclusions and implications:

Taken together, these data demonstrate that the intestinal epithelial A_2B receptor is an important mediator of pro-inflammatory responses in the intestine and that A_2B receptor blockade may be an effective therapeutic strategy to treat inflammatory bowel disease.

Role of extracellular nucleotide phosphohydrolysis in intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Extracellular adenosine has been implicated as an innate antiinflammatory metabolite, particularly during conditions of limited oxygen availability such as ischemia. Because extracellular adenosine generation is primarily produced via phosphohydrolysis from its precursor molecule adenosine-monophosphate (AMP) through the enzyme ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73), we examined the contribution of CD73-dependent adenosine production in modulation of intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Following transcriptional and translational profiling of intestinal tissue that revealed a prominent induction of murine CD73, we next determined the role of CD73 in protection against intestinal IR injury. Interestingly, pharmacological inhibition or targeted gene deletion of CD73 significantly enhanced not only local intestinal injury, but also secondary organ injury, following IR as measured by intestinal and lung myeloperoxidase, aspartate and alanine aminotransferase, interleukin (IL) -1, IL-6, and histological injury. To confirm the role of CD73 in intestinal adenosine production, we measured adenosine tissue levels and found that they were increased with IR injury. In contrast, CD73-deficient (cd73(-/-)) mice had lower adenosine levels at baseline and no increase with IR injury. Finally, reconstitution of cd73(-/-) mice or treatment of wild-type mice with soluble 5'-nucleotidase was associated with significantly lower levels of injury. These data reveal a previously unrecognized role of CD73 in attenuating intestinal IR-mediated injury.

Purinergic receptors in gastrointestinal inflammation

Purinergic receptors comprise a family of transmembrane receptors that are activated by extracellular nucleosides and nucleotides. The two major classes of purinergic receptors, P1 and P2, are expressed widely in the gastrointestinal tract as well as immune cells. The purinergic receptors serve a variety of functions from acting as neurotransmitters, to autocoid and paracrine signaling, to cell activation and immune response. Nucleosides and nucleotide agonist of purinergic receptors are released by many cell types in response to specific physiological signals, and their levels are increased during inflammation. In the past decade, the advent of genetic knockout mice and the development of highly potent and selective agonists and antagonists for the purinergic receptors have significantly advanced the understanding of purinergic receptor signaling in health and inflammation. In fact, agonist/antagonists of purinergic receptors are emerging as therapeutic modalities to treat intestinal inflammation. In this article, the distribution of the purinergic receptors in the gastrointestinal tract and their physiological and pathophysiological role in intestinal inflammation will be reviewed.

In vivo adenosine A(2B) receptor desensitization in guinea-pig airway smooth muscle: implications for asthma

This study was aimed at characterizing the role of adenosine receptor subtypes in the contractility modulation of guinea-pig airway smooth muscle in normal and pathological settings. In vitro and in vivo experiments were performed by testing selective agonists and antagonists on isolated tracheal smooth muscle preparations and pulmonary inflation pressure, respectively, under normal conditions or following ovalbumin-induced allergic sensitization. In normal and sensitized animals, the adenosine A(2A)/A(2B) receptor agonist, NECA, evoked relaxing responses of isolated tracheal preparations precontracted with histamine, and such an effect was reversed by the adenosine A(2B) antagonist, MRS 1706, in the presence or in the absence of epithelium. The expression of mRNA coding for adenosine A(2B) receptors was demonstrated in tracheal specimens. In vitro desensitization with 100 microM NECA markedly reduced the relaxing effect of the agonist. In vivo NECA or adenosine administration to normal animals inhibited histamine-mediated bronchoconstriction, while these inhibitory effects no longer occurred in sensitized guinea-pigs. Adenosine plasma levels were significantly higher in sensitized than normal animals. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that: (i) adenosine A(2B) receptors are responsible for the relaxing effects of adenosine on guinea-pig airways; (ii) these receptors can undergo rapid adaptive changes that may affect airway smooth muscle responsiveness to adenosine; (iii) ovalbumin-induced sensitization promotes a reversible inactivation of adenosine A(2B) receptors which can be ascribed to homologous desensitization. These findings can be relevant to better understand adenosine functions in airways as well as mechanisms of action of asthma therapies targeting the adenosine system.

Structure-activity relationships of 2,N(6),5'-substituted adenosine derivatives with potent activity at the A2B adenosine receptor

2, N6, and 5'-substituted adenosine derivatives were synthesized via alkylation of 2-oxypurine nucleosides leading to 2-arylalkylether derivatives. 2-(3-(Indolyl)ethyloxy)adenosine 17 was examined in both binding and cAMP assays and found to be a potent agonist of the human A2BAR. Simplification, altered connectivity, and mimicking of the indole ring of 17 failed to maintain A2BAR potency. Introduction of N6-ethyl or N6-guanidino substitution, shown to favor A2BAR potency, failed to enhance potency in the 2-(3-(indolyl)ethyloxy)adenosine series. Indole 5' '- or 6' '-halo substitution was favored at the A2BAR, but a 5'-N-ethylcarboxyamide did not further enhance potency. 2-(3' '-(6' '-Bromoindolyl)ethyloxy)adenosine 28 displayed an A2BAR EC50 value of 128 nM, that is, more potent than the parent 17 (299 nM) and similar to 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (140 nM). Compound 28 was a full agonist at A2B and A2AARs and a low efficacy partial agonist at A1 and A3ARs. Thus, we have identified and optimized 2-(2-arylethyl)oxo moieties in AR agonists that enhance A2BAR potency and selectivity.

Interferon-γ dose-dependently inhibits prostaglandin E2-mediated dendritic-cell-migration towards secondary lymphoid organ chemokines

Monocyte-derived human dendritic cells (MoDCs) are increasingly applied as cellular vaccines for cancer patients. Important features for their efficacy include high migratory responsiveness to lymph node-chemokines and most likely their ability to produce bioactive IL-12 p70 upon subsequent contact with CD40 ligand-expressing T-cells. The current standard DC-maturation cocktail for clinical trials is inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6) combined with prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), inducing phenotypically mature MoDCs with high migratory responsiveness to CCR7 ligands. This cocktail does not, however, induce or prime for production of IL-12 p70. Addition of IFN-gamma to PGE(2)-containing maturation cocktails has been shown to prime for substantial production of IL-12 p70 by subsequent CD40 ligation, but the impact of IFN-gamma on phenotypic maturation and migratory responsiveness induced by PGE(2)-containing inflammatory stimuli still remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that addition of IFN-gamma to the standard maturation cocktail decreased CCR7 mRNA and down-regulated CCR7 expression on MoDCs in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, addition of IFN-gamma was found to suppress MoDC-migration towards the CCR7-ligands CCL19 and CCL21. These novel findings indicate that addition of IFN-gamma to DC-maturation stimuli may have no beneficial impact on MoDC-vaccine efficiency and further implicate IFN-gamma as a negative feedback factor in DC migration towards draining lymph nodes when full-blown Th1-type responses are established. Such mechanism may restrict an uncontrolled and potentially harmful amplification of the adaptive Th1 response.

Adenosine 2b receptor (A2bR) signals through adenylate cyclase (AC) 6 isoform in the intestinal epithelial cells

Adenosine 2b receptor (A2bR), a G-protein coupled receptor positively coupled to adenylate cyclase, mediates key events such as chloride, IL-6 and fibronectin secretion in intestinal epithelial cells and is upregulated during intestinal inflammation. In order to gain insight into the overall mechanism of A2bR activation, in this study, we sought to characterize the AC isoform associated with A2bR signaling. The colonic epithelial cell line T84, expressing only the A2b subtype of adenosine receptor, and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, were used in these studies. cAMP was measured by luminometric assay and AC isoform expression was determined by Western blot, RT-PCR, isoform-specific stealth RNAi and Quantigene. T84 and CHO cells express all nine known AC isoforms. In order to characterize which AC isoform(s) are associated with A2bR, we used the differential inhibition of specific AC isoforms by calcium and nitric oxide. Pretreatment of cells with carbachol or nitric oxide donors such as S-Nitroso-N-acetylpencillamine (SNAP) and PAPANANOATE inhibited A2bR mediated increase in cAMP. Further, overexpression of AC-5 or AC-6 potentiated A2bR-mediated increases in cAMP levels. Finally, transfection with AC isoform-specific RNAi demonstrated that AC-6 but not AC-5 RNAi inhibited adenosine-induced cAMP levels. Taken together, these results suggest that A2bR mediates signaling through AC-6 isoform. Since pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) modulate the expression of specific AC isoforms in the intestinal epithelia, our observation may have therapeutic implications for intestinal inflammation or diarrhea wherein aA2bR is upregulated.

Exendin-4, a glucagon-like protein-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, reverses hepatic steatosis in ob/ob mice

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a burgeoning problem in hepatology, and is associated with insulin resistance. Exendin-4 is a peptide agonist of the glucagon-like peptide (GLP) receptor that promotes insulin secretion. The aim of this study was to determine whether administration of Exendin-4 would reverse hepatic steatosis in ob/ob mice. Ob/ob mice, or their lean littermates, were treated with Exendin-4 [10 microg/kg or 20 microg/kg] for 60 days. Serum was collected for measurement of insulin, adiponectin, fasting glucose, lipids, and aminotransferase concentrations. Liver tissue was procured for histological examination, real-time RT-PCR analysis and assay for oxidative stress. Rat hepatocytes were isolated and treated with GLP-1. Ob/ob mice sustained a reduction in the net weight gained during Exendin-4 treatment. Serum glucose and hepatic steatosis was significantly reduced in Exendin-4 treated ob/ob mice. Exendin-4 improved insulin sensitivity in ob/ob mice, as calculated by the homeostasis model assessment. The measurement of thiobarbituric reactive substances as a marker of oxidative stress was significantly reduced in ob/ob-treated mice with Exendin-4. Finally, GLP-1-treated hepatocytes resulted in a significant increase in cAMP production as well as reduction in mRNA expression of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 and genes associated with fatty acid synthesis; the converse was true for genes associated with fatty acid oxidation. In conclusion, Exendin-4 appears to effectively reverse hepatic steatosis in ob/ob mice by improving insulin sensitivity. Our data suggest that GLP-1 proteins in liver have a novel direct effect on hepatocyte fat metabolism.

Mechanism of IFN-gamma-induced endocytosis of tight junction proteins: myosin II-dependent vacuolarization of the apical plasma membrane

Disruption of epithelial barrier by proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-gamma represents a major pathophysiological consequence of intestinal inflammation. We have previously shown that IFN-gamma increases paracellular permeability in model T84 epithelial cells by inducing endocytosis of tight junction (TJ) proteins occludin, JAM-A, and claudin-1. The present study was designed to dissect mechanisms of IFN-gamma-induced endocytosis of epithelial TJ proteins. IFN-gamma treatment of T84 cells resulted in internalization of TJ proteins into large actin-coated vacuoles that originated from the apical plasma membrane and resembled the vacuolar apical compartment (VAC) previously observed in epithelial cells that lose cell polarity. The IFN-gamma dependent formation of VACs required ATPase activity of a myosin II motor but was not dependent on rapid turnover of F-actin. In addition, activated myosin II was observed to colocalize with VACs after IFN-gamma exposure. Pharmacological analyses revealed that formation of VACs and endocytosis of TJ proteins was mediated by Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) but not myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). Furthermore, IFN-gamma treatment resulted in activation of Rho GTPase and induced expressional up-regulation of ROCK. These results, for the first time, suggest that IFN-gamma induces endocytosis of epithelial TJ proteins via RhoA/ROCK-mediated, myosin II-dependent formation of VACs.