Myosin light chain phosphorylation associated with contraction in arterial smooth muscle

Engines of change: Nonmuscle myosin II in mechanobiology

The emergence of mechanobiology has unveiled complex mechanisms by which cells adjust intracellular force production to their needs. Most communicable intracellular forces are generated by myosin II, an actin-associated molecular motor that transforms adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis into contraction in nonmuscle and muscle cells. Myosin II-dependent force generation is tightly regulated, and deregulation is associated with specific pathologies. Here, we focus on the role of myosin II (nonmuscle myosin II, NMII) in force generation and mechanobiology. We outline the regulation and molecular mechanism of force generation by NMII, focusing on the actual outcome of contraction, that is, force application to trigger mechanosensitive events or the building of dissipative structures. We describe how myosin II-generated forces drive two major types of events: modification of the cellular morphology and/or triggering of genetic programs, which enhance the ability of cells to adapt to, or modify, their microenvironment. Finally, we address whether targeting myosin II to impair or potentiate its activity at the motor level is a viable therapeutic strategy, as illustrated by recent examples aimed at modulating cardiac myosin II function in heart disease.

Vascular mechanotransduction

This review aims to survey the current state of mechanotransduction in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs), including their sensing of mechanical stimuli and transduction of mechanical signals that result in the acute functional modulation and longer-term transcriptomic and epigenetic regulation of blood vessels. The mechanosensors discussed include ion channels, plasma membrane-associated structures and receptors, and junction proteins. The mechanosignaling pathways presented include the cytoskeleton, integrins, extracellular matrix, and intracellular signaling molecules. These are followed by discussions on mechanical regulation of transcriptome and epigenetics, relevance of mechanotransduction to health and disease, and interactions between VSMCs and ECs. Throughout this review, we offer suggestions for specific topics that require further understanding. In the closing section on conclusions and perspectives, we summarize what is known and point out the need to treat the vasculature as a system, including not only VSMCs and ECs but also the extracellular matrix and other types of cells such as resident macrophages and pericytes, so that we can fully understand the physiology and pathophysiology of the blood vessel as a whole, thus enhancing the comprehension, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular diseases.

Actomyosin Complex

Formation of cross-bridges between actin and myosin occurs ubiquitously in eukaryotic cells and mediates muscle contraction, intracellular cargo transport, and cytoskeletal remodeling. Myosin motors repeatedly bind to and dissociate from actin filaments in a cycle that transduces the chemical energy from ATP hydrolysis into mechanical force generation. While the general layout of surface elements within the actin-binding interface is conserved among myosin classes, sequence divergence within these motifs alters the specific contacts involved in the actomyosin interaction as well as the kinetics of mechanochemical cycle phases. Additionally, diverse lever arm structures influence the motility and force production of myosin molecules during their actin interactions. The structural differences generated by myosin's molecular evolution have fine-tuned the kinetics of its isoforms and adapted them for their individual cellular roles. In this chapter, we will characterize the structural and biochemical basis of the actin-myosin interaction and explain its relationship with myosin's cellular roles, with emphasis on the structural variation among myosin isoforms that enables their functional specialization. We will also discuss the impact of accessory proteins, such as the troponin-tropomyosin complex and myosin-binding protein C, on the formation and regulation of actomyosin cross-bridges.

miR-181a-2-3p Stimulates Gastric Cancer Progression via Targeting MYLK

Background: The abnormal expression of miRNAs facilitates tumorigenesis and development. miR-181a-2-3p is up-regulated in various cancers, yet its mechanism in gastric cancer (GC) remains elusive.

Objective: To understand mechanism of miR-181a-2-3p stimulating GC cell progression via targeting Myosin Light Chain Kinase (MYLK) expression.

Methods: Downstream genes of miRNA of interest were predicted in TargetScan and miRTarBase. qRT-PCR and western blot were applied to assess miR-181a-2-3p and MYLK expression in GC cells and normal cells. Dual-luciferase and RIP assays were completed to assess binding of miR-181a-2-3p and MYLK. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was conducted for detecting viability of AGS and SNU-1 cells, while Transwell tested migratory and invasive abilities of cells. Nude mouse transplantation tumor experiment was performed to assay tumor growth in vivo.

Results: miR-181a-2-3p was notably increased in human GC cell lines, while MYLK was remarkably down-regulated. RIP and dual-luciferase assay disclosed that miR-181a-2-3p targeted MYLK and repressed MYLK. Forced miR-181a-2-3p expression fostered GC cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and fostered tumor growth in vivo. Promoting effect of miR-181a-2-3p on GC cells was reversed when miR-181a-2-3p and MYLK were simultaneously overexpressed.

Conclusion: miR-181a-2-3p facilitated GC cell progression by targeting MYLK, and it may be a pivotal prognostic biomarker in investigating molecular mechanism of GC.

Nonmuscle Myosin II Regulation Directs Its Multiple Roles in Cell Migration and Division

Nonmuscle myosin II (NMII) is a multimeric protein complex that generates most mechanical force in eukaryotic cells. NMII function is controlled at three main levels. The first level includes events that trigger conformational changes that extend the complex to enable its assembly into filaments. The second level controls the ATPase activity of the complex and its binding to microfilaments in extended NMII filaments. The third level includes events that modulate the stability and contractility of the filaments. They all work in concert to finely control force generation inside cells. NMII is a common endpoint of mechanochemical signaling pathways that control cellular responses to physical and chemical extracellular cues. Specific phosphorylations modulate NMII activation in a context-dependent manner. A few kinases control these phosphorylations in a spatially, temporally, and lineage-restricted fashion, enabling functional adaptability to the cellular microenvironment. Here, we review mechanisms that control NMII activity in the context of cell migration and division. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Cell and Developmental Biology, Volume 37 is October 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.

The Crossroads between RAS and RHO Signaling Pathways in Cellular Transformation, Motility and Contraction

Ras and Rho proteins are GTP-regulated molecular switches that control multiple signaling pathways in eukaryotic cells. Ras was among the first identified oncogenes, and it appears mutated in many forms of human cancer. It mainly promotes proliferation and survival through the MAPK pathway and the PI3K/AKT pathways, respectively. However, the myriad proteins close to the plasma membrane that activate or inhibit Ras make it a major regulator of many apparently unrelated pathways. On the other hand, Rho is weakly oncogenic by itself, but it critically regulates microfilament dynamics; that is, actin polymerization, disassembly and contraction. Polymerization is driven mainly by the Arp2/3 complex and formins, whereas contraction depends on myosin mini-filament assembly and activity. These two pathways intersect at numerous points: from Ras-dependent triggering of Rho activators, some of which act through PI3K, to mechanical feedback driven by actomyosin action. Here, we describe the main points of connection between the Ras and Rho pathways as they coordinately drive oncogenic transformation. We emphasize the biochemical crosstalk that drives actomyosin contraction driven by Ras in a Rho-dependent manner. We also describe possible routes of mechanical feedback through which myosin II activation may control Ras/Rho activation.

Hypoxic modulation of fetal vascular MLCK abundance, localization, and function

Changes in vascular contractility are among the most important physiological effects of acute and chronic fetal hypoxia. Given the essential role of myosin light-chain kinase (MLCK) in smooth muscle contractility and its heterogeneous distribution, this study explores the hypothesis that subcellular changes in MLCK distribution contribute to hypoxic modulation of fetal carotid artery contractility. Relative to common carotid arteries from normoxic term fetal lambs (FN), carotids from fetal lambs gestated at high altitude (3,802 m) (FH) exhibited depressed contractility without changes in MLCK mRNA or protein abundance. Patterns of confocal colocalization of MLCK with α-actin and 20-kDa regulatory myosin light chain (MLC20) enabled calculation of subcellular MLCK fractions: 1) colocalized with the contractile apparatus, 2) colocalized with α-actin distant from the contractile apparatus, and 3) not colocalized with α-actin. Chronic hypoxia did not affect MLCK abundance in the contractile fraction, despite a concurrent decrease in contractility. Organ culture for 72 h under 1% O2 decreased total MLCK abundance in FN and FH carotid arteries, but decreased the contractile MLCK abundance only in FH carotid arteries. Correspondingly, culture under 1% O2 depressed contractility more in FH than FN carotid arteries. In addition, hypoxia appeared to attenuate ubiquitin-independent proteasomal degradation of MLCK, as reported for other proteins. In aggregate, these results demonstrate that the combination of chronic hypoxia followed by hypoxic culture can induce MLCK translocation among at least three subcellular fractions with possible influences on contractility, indicating that changes in MLCK distribution are a significant component of fetal vascular responses to hypoxia.

Selenoprotein Gpx3 knockdown induces myocardial damage through Ca2+ leaks in chickens

Glutathione peroxidase 3 (Gpx3) is a pivotal selenoprotein that acts as an antioxidant. However, the role of Gpx3 in maintaining the normal metabolism of cardiomyocytes remains to be elucidated in more detail. Herein, we employed a model of Gpx3 interference in chicken embryos in vivo and Gpx3 knockdown chicken cardiomyocytes in vitro. Real-time PCR, western blotting and fluorescent staining were performed to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS), the calcium (Ca²⁺) concentration, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, myocardial contraction, inflammation and heat shock proteins (HSPs). Our results revealed that Gpx3 suppression increased the level of ROS, which induced Ca²⁺ leakage in the cytoplasm by blocking the expression of Ca²⁺ channels. The imbalance of Ca²⁺ homeostasis triggered ER stress and blocked myocardial contraction. Furthermore, we found that Ca²⁺ imbalance in the cytoplasm induced severe inflammation, and HSPs might play a protective role throughout these processes. In conclusion, Gpx3 suppression induces myocardial damage through the activation of Ca²⁺-dependent ER stress.

Contextual role of E2F1 in suppression of melanoma cell motility and invasiveness

The general transcription factor E2F1 reportedly functions in a protumorigenic manner in several cancer models. We show that the genetic context of cancer cells influence E2F1's role to impede the protumorigenic role. Thirty to fifty percent of melanoma patients carry mutant BRAF with about 90% of mutant BRAF melanomas being V600E mutation. Tissue microarrays from melanoma patients were used to establish an association between E2F1 and BRAFV600E . We show for the first time that low E2F1 levels in BRAFV600E melanomas are associated with lymph node metastasis. Genetic manipulation of E2F1 in BRAFV600E and BRAFwt cells were used to determine its role in malignant melanoma progression by examining effects on migration and invasion. E2F1-mediated negative regulation of myosin light chain kinase (MYLK) increased migration and invasion in BRAFV600E cells by phosphorylating myosin light chain and increased stress fiber formation. We show that E2F1 inhibits extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation in BRAFV600E cells and provide evidence for a negative feedback loop between E2F1 and ERK in these cells. This study shows for the first time that E2F1 has a cancer protective role in oncogenic BRAF-activated melanoma cells and that loss of E2F1 can allow disease progression through a novel mechanism of E2F1-mediated MYLK regulation. This study has implications for oncogenic BRAF-activated tumors and resistance to targeted oncogenic BRAF therapy.

Thioredoxin silencing-induced cardiac supercontraction occurs through endoplasmic reticulum stress and calcium overload in chicken

The thioredoxin (Txn) system is the most crucial antioxidant defense mechanism in the myocardium, and hampering the Txn system may compromise cell survival. Calcium (Ca) imbalance is associated with a variety of cardiomyopathies, and dysregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis is often considered a critical starting point for heart disease. However, the roles of Txn and the Txn system in maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis in cardiomyocytes have been infrequently reported. Here, we examined the expression of genes associated with Ca2+ channels using a model of Txn suppression in cardiomyocyte cultures (siRNA and Txn inhibitor) and report that Txn knockdown can cause Ca2+ overload in the myocardial cytoplasm and release of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+, which induces ER stress. Our results showed that Txn knockdown could lead to cytosolic Ca2+ overload through upregulated gene expression of Ca2+ channel-related genes in the cytoplasmic and ER membranes. Furthermore, we find that excessive Ca2+ concentrations in the cytoplasm may increase myocardial contraction, and heat shock proteins may play a protective role throughout the process. Our present study reveals a novel model of regulation for low Txn expression in myocardial injury.

Phosphorylation of the regulatory light chain of myosin in striated muscle: methodological perspectives

Phosphorylation of the regulatory light chain (RLC) of myosin modulates cellular functions such as muscle contraction, mitosis, and cytokinesis. Phosphorylation defects are implicated in a number of diseases. Here we focus on striated muscle where changes in RLC phosphorylation relate to diseases such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and muscular dystrophy, or age-related changes. RLC phosphorylation in smooth muscle and non-muscle cells are covered briefly where relevant. There is much scientific interest in controlling the phosphorylation levels of RLC in vivo and in vitro in order to understand its physiological function in striated muscles. A summary of available and emerging in vivo and in vitro methods is presented. The physiological role of RLC phosphorylation and novel pathways are discussed to highlight the differences between muscle types and to gain insights into disease processes.

Mechanics of Vascular Smooth Muscle

Vascular smooth muscle (VSM; see Table 1 for a list of abbreviations) is a heterogeneous biomaterial comprised of cells and extracellular matrix. By surrounding tubes of endothelial cells, VSM forms a regulated network, the vasculature, through which oxygenated blood supplies specialized organs, permitting the development of large multicellular organisms. VSM cells, the engine of the vasculature, house a set of regulated nanomotors that permit rapid stress-development, sustained stress-maintenance and vessel constriction. Viscoelastic materials within, surrounding and attached to VSM cells, comprised largely of polymeric proteins with complex mechanical characteristics, assist the engine with countering loads imposed by the heart pump, and with control of relengthening after constriction. The complexity of this smart material can be reduced by classical mechanical studies combined with circuit modeling using spring and dashpot elements. Evaluation of the mechanical characteristics of VSM requires a more complete understanding of the mechanics and regulation of its biochemical parts, and ultimately, an understanding of how these parts work together to form the machinery of the vascular tree. Current molecular studies provide detailed mechanical data about single polymeric molecules, revealing viscoelasticity and plasticity at the protein domain level, the unique biological slip-catch bond, and a regulated two-step actomyosin power stroke. At the tissue level, new insight into acutely dynamic stress-strain behavior reveals smooth muscle to exhibit adaptive plasticity. At its core, physiology aims to describe the complex interactions of molecular systems, clarifying structure-function relationships and regulation of biological machines. The intent of this review is to provide a comprehensive presentation of one biomachine, VSM.

Emerging roles of A-kinase anchoring proteins in cardiovascular pathophysiology

Heart and blood vessels ensure adequate perfusion of peripheral organs with blood and nutrients. Alteration of the homeostatic functions of the cardiovascular system can cause hypertension, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease leading to heart injury and failure. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) constitute a family of scaffolding proteins that are crucially involved in modulating the function of the cardiovascular system both under physiological and pathological conditions. AKAPs assemble multifunctional signaling complexes that ensure correct targeting of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) as well as other signaling enzymes to precise subcellular compartments. This allows local regulation of specific effector proteins that control the function of vascular and cardiac cells. This review will focus on recent advances illustrating the role of AKAPs in cardiovascular pathophysiology. The accent will be mainly placed on the molecular events linked to the control of vascular integrity and blood pressure as well as on the cardiac remodeling process associated with heart failure. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cardiomyocyte Biology: Integration of Developmental and Environmental Cues in the Heart edited by Marcus Schaub and Hughes Abriel.

Myosin superfamily: The multi-functional and irreplaceable factors in spermatogenesis and testicular tumors

Spermatogenesis is a fundamental process in sexual development and reproduction, in which the diploid spermatogonia transform into haploid mature spermatozoa. This process is under the regulation of multiple factors and pathway. Myosin has been implicated in various aspects during spermatogenesis. Myosins constitute a diverse superfamily of actin-based molecular motors that translocate along microfilament in an ATP-dependent manner, and six kinds of myosins have been proved that function during spermatogenesis. In mitosis and meiosis, myosins play an important role in spindle assembly and positioning, karyokinesis and cytokinesis. During spermiogenesis, myosins participate in acrosomal formation, nuclear morphogenesis, mitochondrial translocation and spermatid individualization. In this review, we summarize current understanding of the functions of myosin in spermatogenesis and some reproductive system diseases such as testicular tumors and prostate cancer, and discuss the roles of possible upstream molecules which regulate myosin in these processes.

Cortical actin regulation modulates vascular contractility and compliance in veins

Most cardiovascular research focuses on arterial mechanisms of disease, largely ignoring venous mechanisms. Here we examine ex vivo venous stiffness, spanning tissue to molecular levels, using biomechanics and magnetic microneedle technology, and show for the first time that venous stiffness is regulated by a molecular actin switch within the vascular smooth muscle cell in the wall of the vein. This switch connects the contractile apparatus within the cell to adhesion structures and facilitates stiffening of the vessel wall, regulating blood flow return to the heart. These studies also demonstrate that passive stiffness, the component of total stiffness not attributable to vascular smooth muscle activation, is severalfold lower in venous tissue than in arterial tissue. We show here that the activity of the smooth muscle cells plays a dominant role in determining total venous stiffness and regulating venous return. The literature on arterial mechanics is extensive, but far less is known about mechanisms controlling mechanical properties of veins. We use here a multi-scale approach to identify subcellular sources of venous stiffness. Portal vein tissue displays a severalfold decrease in passive stiffness compared to aortic tissues. The α-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine (PE) increased tissue stress and stiffness, both attenuated by cytochalasin D (CytoD) and PP2, inhibitors of actin polymerization and Src activity, respectively. We quantify, for the first time, cortical cellular stiffness in freshly isolated contractile vascular smooth muscle cells using magnetic microneedle technology. Cortical stiffness is significantly increased by PE and CytoD inhibits this increase but, surprisingly, PP2 does not. No detectable change in focal adhesion size, measured by immunofluorescence of FAK and zyxin, accompanies the PE-induced changes in cortical stiffness. Probing with phospho-specific antibodies confirmed activation of FAK/Src and ERK pathways and caldesmon phosphorylation. Thus, venous tissue stiffness is regulated both at the level of the smooth muscle cell cortex, via cortical actin polymerization, and by downstream smooth muscle effectors of Src/ERK signalling pathways. These findings identify novel potential molecular targets for the modulation of venous capacitance and venous return in health and disease.

A role for actin polymerization in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is defined as the failure of normal pulmonary vascular relaxation at birth. Hypoxia is known to impede postnatal disassembly of the actin cytoskeleton in pulmonary arterial myocytes, resulting in elevation of smooth muscle α-actin and γ-actin content in elastic and resistance pulmonary arteries in PPHN compared with age-matched controls. This review examines the original histological characterization of PPHN with attention to cytoskeletal structural remodeling and actin isoform abundance, reviews the existing evidence for understanding the biophysical and biochemical forces at play during neonatal circulatory transition, and specifically addresses the role of the cortical actin architecture, primarily identified as γ-actin, in the transduction of mechanical force in the hypoxic PPHN pulmonary circuit.

Genes influenced by the non-muscle isoform of Myosin light chain kinase impact human cancer prognosis

The multifunctional non-muscle isoform of myosin light chain kinase (nmMLCK) is critical to the rapid dynamic coordination of the cytoskeleton involved in cancer cell proliferation and migration. We identified 45 nmMLCK-influenced genes by bioinformatic filtering of genome–wide expression in wild type and nmMLCK knockout (KO) mice exposed to preclinical models of murine acute inflammatory lung injury, pathologies that are well established to include nmMLCK as an essential participant. To determine whether these nmMLCK-influenced genes were relevant to human cancers, the 45 mouse genes were matched to 38 distinct human orthologs (M38 signature) (GeneCards definition) and underwent Kaplan-Meier survival analysis in training and validation cohorts. These studies revealed that in training cohorts, the M38 signature successfully identified cancer patients with poor overall survival in breast cancer (P<0.001), colon cancer (P<0.001), glioma (P<0.001), and lung cancer (P<0.001). In validation cohorts, the M38 signature demonstrated significantly reduced overall survival for high-score patients of breast cancer (P = 0.002), colon cancer (P = 0.035), glioma (P = 0.023), and lung cancer (P = 0.023). The association between M38 risk score and overall survival was confirmed by univariate Cox proportional hazard analysis of overall survival in the both training and validation cohorts. This study, providing a novel prognostic cancer gene signature derived from a murine model of nmMLCK-associated lung inflammation, strongly supports nmMLCK-involved pathways in tumor growth and progression in human cancers and nmMLCK as an attractive candidate molecular target in both inflammatory and neoplastic processes.

The focal adhesion: a regulated component of aortic stiffness

Increased aortic stiffness is an acknowledged predictor and cause of cardiovascular disease. The sources and mechanisms of vascular stiffness are not well understood, although the extracellular matrix (ECM) has been assumed to be a major component. We tested here the hypothesis that the focal adhesions (FAs) connecting the cortical cytoskeleton of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to the matrix in the aortic wall are a component of aortic stiffness and that this component is dynamically regulated. First, we examined a model system in which magnetic tweezers could be used to monitor cellular cortical stiffness, serum-starved A7r5 aortic smooth muscle cells. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), an activator of myosin that increases cell contractility, increased cortical stiffness. A small molecule inhibitor of Src-dependent FA recycling, PP2, was found to significantly inhibit LPA-induced increases in cortical stiffness, as well as tension-induced increases in FA size. To directly test the applicability of these results to force and stiffness development at the level of vascular tissue, we monitored mouse aorta ring stiffness with small sinusoidal length oscillations during agonist-induced contraction. The alpha-agonist phenylephrine, which also increases myosin activation and contractility, increased tissue stress and stiffness in a PP2- and FAK inhibitor 14-attenuated manner. Subsequent phosphotyrosine screening and follow-up with phosphosite-specific antibodies confirmed that the effects of PP2 and FAK inhibitor 14 in vascular tissue involve FA proteins, including FAK, CAS, and paxillin. Thus, in the present study we identify, for the first time, the FA of the VSMC, in particular the FAK-Src signaling complex, as a significant subcellular regulator of aortic stiffness and stress.

Role of cyclic nucleotide-dependent actin cytoskeletal dynamics:Ca(2+)](i) and force suppression in forskolin-pretreated porcine coronary arteries

Initiation of force generation during vascular smooth muscle contraction involves a rise in intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) and phosphorylation of myosin light chains (MLC). However, reversal of these two processes alone does not account for the force inhibition that occurs during relaxation or inhibition of contraction, implicating that other mechanisms, such as actin cytoskeletal rearrangement, play a role in the suppression of force. In this study, we hypothesize that forskolin-induced force suppression is dependent upon changes in actin cytoskeletal dynamics. To focus on the actin cytoskeletal changes, a physiological model was developed in which forskolin treatment of intact porcine coronary arteries (PCA) prior to treatment with a contractile agonist resulted in complete suppression of force. Pretreatment of PCA with forskolin suppressed histamine-induced force generation but did not abolish [Ca(2+)]i rise or MLC phosphorylation. Additionally, forskolin pretreatment reduced filamentous actin in histamine-treated tissues, and prevented histamine-induced changes in the phosphorylation of the actin-regulatory proteins HSP20, VASP, cofilin, and paxillin. Taken together, these results suggest that forskolin-induced complete force suppression is dependent upon the actin cytoskeletal regulation initiated by the phosphorylation changes of the actin regulatory proteins and not on the MLC dephosphorylation. This model of complete force suppression can be employed to further elucidate the mechanisms responsible for smooth muscle tone, and may offer cues to pathological situations, such as hypertension and vasospasm.

SMB myosin heavy chain knockout enhances tonic contraction and reduces the rate of force generation in ileum and stomach antrum

The role of SMA and SMB smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms in tonic and phasic contractions was studied in phasic (longitudinal ileum and stomach circular antrum) and tonic (stomach circular fundus) smooth muscle tissues of SMB knockout mice. Knocking out the SMB MHC gene eliminated SMB MHC protein expression and resulted in upregulation of the SMA MHC protein without altering the total MHC protein level. Switching from SMB to SMA MHC protein expression decreased the rate of the force transient and increased the sustained tonic force in SMB((-/-)) ileum and antrum with high potassium (KPSS) but not with carbachol (CCh) stimulation. The increased tonic contraction under the depolarized condition was not through changes in second messenger signaling pathways (PKC/CPI-17 or Rho/ROCK signaling pathway) or LC(20) phosphorylation. Biochemical analyses showed that the expression of contractile regulatory proteins (MLCK, MLCP, PKCδ, and CPI-17) did not change significantly in tissues tested except for PKCα protein expression being significantly decreased in the SMB((-/-)) antrum. However, specifically activating PKCα with phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu) was not significantly different in knockout and wild-type tissues, with total force being a fraction of the force generation with KPSS or CCh stimulation in SMB((-/-)) ileum and antrum. Taken together, these data show removing the SMB MHC protein expression with a compensatory increase in the SMA MHC protein results in enhanced sustained KPSS-induced tonic contraction with a reduced rate of force generation in these phasic tissues.

Myoplasmic [ca], crossbridge phosphorylation and latch in rabbit bladder smooth muscle

TONIC SMOOTH MUSCLE EXHIBIT THE LATCH PHENOMENON: high force at low myosin regulatory light chains (MRLC) phosphorylation, shortening velocity (Vo), and energy consumption. However, the kinetics of MRLC phosphorylation and cellular activation in phasic smooth muscle are unknown. The present study was to determine whether Ca(2+)-stimulated MRLC phosphorylation could suffice to explain the agonist- or high K(+)-induced contraction in a fast, phasic smooth muscle. We measured myoplasmic [Ca(2+)], MRLC phosphorylation, half-time after step-shortening (a measure of Vo) and contractile stress in rabbit urinary bladder strips. High K(+)-induced contractions were phasic at both 22℃ and 37℃: myoplasmic [Ca(2+)], MRLC phosphorylation, 1/half-time, and contractile stress increased transiently and then all decreased to intermediate values. Carbachol (CCh)-induced contractions exhibited latch at 37℃: stress was maintained at high levels despite decreasing myoplasmic [Ca(2+)], MRLC phosphorylation, and 1/half-time. At 22℃ CCh induced sustained elevations in all parameters. 1/half-time depended on both myoplasmic [Ca(2+)] and MRLC phosphorylation. The steady-state dependence of stress on MRLC phosphorylation was very steep at 37℃ in the CCh- or K(+)-depolarized tissue and reduced temperature flattend the dependence of stress on MRLC phosphorylation compared to 37℃. These data suggest that phasic smooth muscle also exhibits latch behavior and latch is less prominent at lower temperature.

Androgen regulation of gene expression

The biological action of androgenic male sex steroid hormones in prostate tissue is mediated by the androgen receptor, a nuclear transcription factor. The transcriptional program of androgenic signaling in the prostate consists of thousands of gene targets whose products play a role in almost all cellular functions, including cellular proliferation, survival, lipid metabolism, and differentiation. This review will provide a summary of the most recent data regarding androgen-regulated target genes and modulation of androgen receptor activity, especially with regard to androgen-dependent and castration-recurrent prostate cancer.

FRET analysis of actin–myosin interaction in contracting rat aortic smooth muscle

We examined the interaction of smooth muscle myosin with α-actin and β-actin isoforms during the contraction of A7r5 smooth muscle cells and rat aortic smooth muscle. The techniques of confocal microscopy and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) analysis were utilized in examining A7r5 cells and rat aortic rings contracted with phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate. Visual evaluation of confocal images of A7r5 smooth muscle cells contracted by phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate indicated significant disassociation of myosin from α-actin but not β-actin. Whole-cell FRET analysis confirmed these observations (α-actin–myosin –67%, β-actin–myosin –2%). Time course studies further showed that α-actin–myosin complex increased significantly (40%) within 1.5 min after the addition of phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate and then declined as contraction progressed. FRET analysis of rat aortic rings at different intervals of contraction indicated significant increases in α-actin–myosin at the initiation (79%) and plateau (67%) in force development, but not during the intermediate period of slowly developing tension (–4%). By comparison, β-actin–myosin complex was unchanged except during slow force development, in which the association was significantly decreased (–30%). Similar to that of α-actin–myosin, Alexa 488 – phalloidin staining fluorescence indicated increased tissue F-actin content at the initiation (21%) and plateau (62%) in force. FRET images indicated the development of thickened cables and patches of α-actin–myosin in tissue throughout the interval of contraction. The results provide direct evidence of dynamic remodeling of the contractile protein during vascular smooth muscle contraction and suggest that FRET analysis may be a powerful tool for assessment of tissue protein–protein associations.

Androgens down-regulate myosin light chain kinase in human prostate cancer cells

Androgens play a major role in the growth and survival of primary prostate tumors. The molecular mechanisms involved in prostate cancer progression are not fully understood but genes that are regulated by androgens clearly influence this process. We searched for new androgen-regulated genes using the Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U95 Set in the androgen-sensitive LNCaP prostate cancer cell line. Analysis of gene expression profiles revealed that myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) mRNA levels were markedly down-regulated by the synthetic androgen R1881. The microarray data were confirmed by ribonuclease protection assays. RNA and protein analyses revealed that LNCaP cells express both long (non-muscle) and short (smooth muscle) isoforms, and that both isoforms are down-regulated by androgens. Taken together, these data identify MLCK as a novel downstream target of the androgen signalling pathway in prostate cells.

Differential effects of intravenous anesthetics on capacitative calcium entry in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

We assessed the roles of the protein kinase C (PKC) and the tyrosine kinase (TK) signaling pathways in regulating capacitative calcium entry (CCE) in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and investigated the effects of intravenous anesthetics (midazolam, propofol, thiopental, ketamine, etomidate, morphine, and fentanyl) on CCE in human PASMCs. Fura-2-loaded human PASMCs were placed in a dish (37°C) on an inverted fluorescence microscope. Intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured as the 340/380 fluorescence ratio in individual PASMCs. Thapsigargin, a sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-adenosine triphosphatase inhibitor, was used to deplete intracellular Ca2+stores after removing extracellular Ca2+. CCE was then activated by restoring extracellular Ca2+(2.2 mM). The effects of PKC activation and inhibition, TK inhibition, and the intravenous anesthetics on CCE were assessed. Thapsigargin caused a transient increase in [Ca2+]i. Restoring extracellular Ca2+caused a rapid peak increase in [Ca2+]i, followed by a sustained increase in [Ca2+]i; i.e., CCE was stimulated in human PASMCs. PKC activation attenuated ( P < 0.05), whereas PKC inhibition potentiated ( P < 0.05), both peak and sustained CCE. TK inhibition attenuated ( P < 0.05) both peak and sustained CCE. Midazolam, propofol, and thiopental each attenuated ( P < 0.05) both peak and sustained CCE, whereas ketamine, etomidate, morphine, and fentanyl had no effect on CCE. Our results suggest that CCE in human PASMCs is influenced by both the TK and PKC signaling pathways. Midazolam, propofol, and thiopental each attenuated CCE, whereas ketamine, etomidate, morphine, and fentanyl had no effect on CCE.

Myosin II isoforms in smooth muscle: heterogeneity and function

Both smooth muscle (SM) and nonmuscle class II myosin molecules are expressed in SM tissues comprising hollow organ systems. Individual SM cells may express one or more of multiple myosin II isoforms that differ in myosin heavy chain (MHC) and myosin light chain (MLC) subunits. Although much has been learned, the expression profiles, organization within contractile filaments, localization within cells, and precise roles in various contractile functions of these different myosin molecules are still not well understood. However, data supporting unique physiological roles for certain isoforms continues to build. Isoform differences located in the S1 head region of the MHC can alter actin binding and rates of ATP hydrolysis. Differences located in the MHC tail can alter the formation, stability, and size of the myosin thick filament. In these distinct ways, both head and tail isoform differences can alter force generation and muscle shortening velocities. The MLCs that are associated with the lever arm of the S1 head can affect the flexibility and range of motion of this domain and possibly the motion of the S2 and motor domains. Phosphorylation of MLC(20) has been associated with conformational changes in the S1 and/or S2 fragments regulating enzymatic activity of the entire myosin molecule. A challenge for the future will be delineation of the physiological significance of the heterogeneous expression of these isoforms in developmental, tissue-specific, and species-specific patterns and or the intra- and intercellular heterogeneity of myosin isoform expression in SM cells of a given organ.

Signaling pathways involved with the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II on vacuolar H+-ATPase in proximal tubule cells

It has been documented that angiotensin II (ANG II) (10(-9) M) stimulates proton extrusion via H(+)-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) in proximal tubule cells. In the present study, we investigated the signaling pathways involved in the effects of ANG II on H(+)-ATPase activity and on the cytosolic free calcium concentration in immortalized rat proximal tubule cells, a permanent cell line derived from rat proximal tubules. The effects of ANG on pH(i) and [Ca(+2)](i) were assessed by the fluorescent probes, 2',7-bis (2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein-acetoxy-methyl ester and fluo-4-acetoxy-methyl ester, in the absence of Na(+) to block the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger. In the control situation, the pH recovery rate following intracellular acidification with NH(4)Cl was 0.073+/-0.011 pH units/min (n=12). This recovery was significantly increased with ANG II (10(-9 )M), to 0.12+/-0.015 pH units/min, n=10. This last effect was also followed by a significant increase of Ca(+2) (i), from 99.72+/-1.704 nM (n=21) to 401.23+/-33.91 nM (n=39). The stimulatory effect of ANG II was blocked in the presence of losartan, an angiotensin II subtype 1 (AT(1)) receptor antagonist. H89 [protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor] plus ANG II had no effect on the pH recovery. Staurosporine [protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor] impaired the effect of ANG II. Phorbol myristate acetate (PKC activator) mimicked in part the stimulatory effect of ANG II, but reduced Ca(+2) (i). 1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (intracellular calcium chelator) alone reduced the pH(i) recovery rate below control levels and impaired the effect of ANG II, in a way similar to that of trimethoxy benzoate (a blocker of Ca(+2) (i) mobilization). We conclude that ANG II regulates rat proximal tubule vacuolar H(+)-ATPase by a PKA-independent mechanism and that PKC and intracellular calcium play a critical role in this regulation.

Regulation of smooth muscle calcium sensitivity: KCl as a calcium-sensitizing stimulus

KCl has long been used as a convenient stimulus to bypass G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) and activate smooth muscle by a highly reproducible and relatively “simple” mechanism involving activation of voltage-operated Ca2+channels that leads to increases in cytosolic free Ca2+([Ca2+]i), Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent myosin light chain (MLC) kinase activation, MLC phosphorylation and contraction. This KCl-induced stimulus-response coupling mechanism is a standard tool-set used in comparative studies to explore more complex mechanisms generated by activation of GPCRs. One area where this approach has been especially productive is in studies designed to understand Ca2+sensitization, the relationship between [Ca2+]iand force produced by GPCR agonists. Studies done in the late 1980s demonstrated that a unique relationship between stimulus-induced [Ca2+]iand force does not exist: for a given increase in [Ca2+]i, GPCR activation can produce greater force than KCl, and relaxant agents can produce the opposite effect to cause Ca2+desensitization. Such changes in Ca2+sensitivity are now known to involve multiple cell signaling strategies, including translocation of proteins from cytosol to plasma membrane, and activation of enzymes, including RhoA kinase and protein kinase C. However, recent studies show that KCl can also cause Ca2+sensitization involving translocation and activation of RhoA kinase. Rather than complicating the Ca2+sensitivity story, this surprising finding is already providing novel insights into mechanisms regulating Ca2+sensitivity of smooth muscle contraction. KCl as a “simple” stimulus promises to remain a standard tool for smooth muscle cell physiologists, whose focus is to understand mechanisms regulating Ca2+sensitivity.

Heat shock protein 20-mediated force suppression in forskolin-relaxed swine carotid artery

Increases in cyclic nucleotide levels induce smooth muscle relaxation by deactivation [reductions in myosin regulatory light chain (MRLC) phosphorylation (e.g., by reduced [Ca(2+)])] or force suppression (reduction in force without reduction in MRLC phosphorylation). Ser(16)-heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) phosphorylation is the proposed mediator of force suppression. We evaluated three potential hypotheses whereby Ser(16)-HSP20 phosphorylation could regulate smooth muscle force: 1) a threshold level of HSP20 phosphorylation could inactivate a thin filament as a whole, 2) phosphorylation of a single HSP20 could fully inactivate a small region of a thin filament, or 3) HSP20 phosphorylation could weakly inhibit myosin binding at either the thin- or thick-filament level. We tested these hypotheses by analyzing the dependence of force on Ser(16)-HSP20 phosphorylation in swine carotid media. First, we determined that swine HSP20 has a second phosphorylation site at Ser(157). Ser(157)-HSP20 phosphorylation values were high and did not change during contractile activation or forskolin-induced relaxation. Forskolin significantly increased Ser(16)-HSP20 phosphorylation. The relationship between Ser(16)-HSP20 phosphorylation and force remained linear and was shifted downward in partially activated muscles relaxed with forskolin. Neither forskolin nor nitroglycerin induced actin depolymerization as detected using the F/G-actin ratio method in smooth muscle homogenates. These results suggest that force suppression does not occur in accordance with the first hypothesis (inactivation of a thin filament as a whole). Our data are more consistent with the second and third hypotheses that force suppression is mediated by full or partial inhibition of local myosin binding at the thin- or thick-filament level.

Localization and Regulation of the ATP6V0A4 (a4) Vacuolar H+-ATPase Subunit Defective in an Inherited Form of Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis

ABSTRACT. Vacuolar-type H+-ATPases (V-H+-ATPases) are the major H+-secreting protein in the distal portion of the nephron and are involved in net H+secretion (bicarbonate generation) or H+reabsorption (net bicarbonate secretion). In addition, V-H+-ATPases are involved in HCO3−reabsorption in the proximal tubule and distal tubule. V-H+-ATPases consist of at least 13 subunits, the functions of which have not all been elucidated. Mutations in the accessory ATP6V0A4 (a4 isoform) subunit have recently been shown to cause an inherited form of distal renal tubular acidosis in humans. Here, the localization of this subunit in human and mouse kidney was studied and the regulation of expression and localization of this subunit in mouse kidney in response to acid-base and electrolyte intake was investigated. Reverse transcription-PCR on dissected mouse nephron segments amplified a4-specific transcripts in proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal convoluted tubule, and cortical and medullary collecting duct. a4 protein was localized by immunohistochemistry to the apical compartment of the proximal tubule (S1/S2 segment), the loop of Henle, the intercalated cells of the distal convoluted tubule, the connecting segment, and all intercalated cells of the entire collecting duct in human and mouse kidney. All types of intercalated cells expressed a4. NH4Cl or NaHCO3loading for 24 h, 48 h, or 7 d as well as K+depletion for 7 and 14 d had no influence on a4 protein expression levels in either cortex or medulla as determined by Western blotting. Immunohistochemistry, however, demonstrated a subcellular redistribution of a4 in response to the different stimuli. NH4Cl and K+depletion led to a pronounced apical staining in the connecting segment, cortical collecting duct, and outer medullary collecting duct, whereas NaHCO3loading caused a stronger bipolar staining in the cortical collecting duct. Taken together, these results demonstrate a4 expression in the proximal tubule, loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct and suggest that under conditions in which increased V-H+-ATPase activity is required, a4 is regulated by trafficking but not protein expression. This may allow for the rapid adaptation of V-H+-ATPase activity to altered acid-base intake to achieve systemic pH homeostasis. The significance of a4 expression in the proximal tubule in the context of distal renal tubular acidosis will require further clarification.

Troponin I inhibitory peptide suppresses the force generation in smooth muscle by directly interfering with cross-bridge formation

To explore possible mechanisms involving the thin filament-linked regulation of contraction in living smooth muscles, we studied the effects of a synthetic peptide of rabbit cardiac troponin I [residues 136-147] (TnIp), which is a minimal sequence required to inhibit striated muscle acto-tropomyosin-myosin ATPase activity, on the mechanical properties of beta-escin skinned preparations of taenia caeci from guinea pig. TnIp reversibly suppressed the Ca(2+)-activated force without significant effects on the Ca(2+) sensitivity and on the phosphorylation level of myosin regulatory light chain (MLC(20)). TnIp also reversibly suppressed the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-independent contraction induced by 30mM Mg(2+). An analogue of TnIp, which lost inhibiting action on acto-tropomyosin-myosin ATPase activity, affected neither Ca(2+)-activated nor 30mM Mg(2+)-induced contraction. These results indicate that TnIp suppresses the force generation in smooth muscle by directly interfering with cross-bridge formation rather than inhibiting the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent thick and thin filament activating processes.

Mediation of acetylcholine and substance P induced contractions by myosin light chain phosphorylation in feline colonic smooth muscle

OBJECTIVES

To determine the role of myosin light chain phosphorylation in feline colonic smooth muscle contraction.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Colonic tissue was obtained from eight 12- to 24-month-old cats.

PROCEDURE

Colonic longitudinal smooth muscle strips were attached to isometric force transducers for measurements of isometric stress. Myosin light chain phosphorylation was determined by isoelectric focusing and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Stress and phosphorylation were determined following stimulation with ACh or SP, in the absence or presence of a calmodulin antagonist (W-7; 0.1 to 1.0 mM), myosin light chain kinase inhibitor (ML-9; 1 to 10 microM), or extracellular calcium free solutions.

RESULTS

Unstimulated longitudinal colonic smooth muscle contained low amounts (6.9+/-3.2%) of phosphorylated myosin light chain. Phosphorylation of the myosin light chains was dose and time dependent with maximal values of 58.5% at 30 seconds of stimulation with 100 microM Ach and 60.2% at 45 seconds of stimulation with 100 nM SP Active isometric stress development closely paralleled phosphorylation of the myosin light chains in ACh- or SP-stimulated muscle. W-7 and ML-9 dose dependently inhibited myosin light chain phosphorylation and isometric stress development associated with ACh or SP stimulation. Removal of extracellular calcium inhibited myosin light chain phosphorylation and isometric stress development in ACh-stimulated smooth muscle.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Feline longitudinal colonic smooth muscle contraction is calcium-, calmodulin-, and myosin light chain kinase-dependent. Myosin light chain phosphorylation is necessary for the initiation of contraction in feline longitudinal colonic smooth muscle. These findings may prove useful in determining the biochemical and molecular defects that accompany feline colonic motility disorders.

Remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton in the contracting A7r5 smooth muscle cell

It has been proposed that the reorganization of components of the actin cytomatrix could contribute to force development and the low energy cost of sustained contraction in contractile cells which lack a structured sarcomere (A.S. Battistella-Patterson, S. Wang and G.L. Wright (1997) Can J Physiol Pharmacol 75: 1287-1299). However, there has been no direct evidence of an apropos actin reorganization specifically linked to the contractile response in cells of this type. Remodeling of the alpha- and beta-actin domains was studied in A7r5 smooth muscle cells during phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate (PDB)-induced contraction using immunohistologic staining and beta-actin-green fluorescent protein (beta-actin-GFP) fusion protein expression. Cell stained with phalloidin as well as cells expressing beta-actin-GFP showed densely packed actin stress cables, arranged in parallel and extending across the cell body. PDB caused approximately 85% of cells to contract with evidence of forcible detachment from peripheral adhesion sites seen in many cells. The contraction of the cell body was not uniform but occurred along a principal axis parallel to the system of densely packed beta-actin cables. During the interval of contraction, the beta-actin cables shortened without evidence of disassembly or new cable formation. The use of cytochalasin to inhibit actin polymerization resulted in the dissolution of the actin cables at the central region of the cell and caused the elongation of precontracted cells. In unstimulated cells, alpha-actin formed cables similar in arrangement to the cell spanning beta-actin cables. Within a short interval after PDB addition; however, the majority of alpha-actin cables disassembled and reformed into intensely fluorescing column-like structures extending vertically from the cell base at the center of clusters of alpha-actin filaments. The alpha-actin columns of contracting cells showed strong colocalization of alpha-actinin suggesting they could be structurally analogous to the dense bodies of highly differentiated smooth muscle cells. The results indicate that the alpha- and beta-actin domains of A7r5 cells undergo a highly structured reorganization during PDB-induced contraction. The extent and nature of this restructuring suggest that remodeling could play a role in contractile function.

Dependency of detrusor contractions on calcium sensitization and calcium entry through LOE-908-sensitive channels

1. The subcellular mechanisms regulating stimulus-contraction coupling in detrusor remain to be determined. We used Ca(2+)-free solutions, Ca(2+) channel blockers, cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), and RhoA kinase (ROK) inhibitors to test the hypothesis that Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) sensitization play primary roles. 2. In rabbit detrusor, peak bethanechol (BE)-induced force was inhibited 90% by incubation for 3 min in a Ca(2+)-free solution. By comparison, a 20 min incubation of rabbit femoral artery in a Ca(2+)-free solution reduced receptor-induced force by only 5%. 3. In detrusor, inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticular (SR) Ca(2+) release by 2APB, or depletion of SR Ca(2+) by CPA, inhibited BE-induced force by only 27%. The CPA-insensitive force was abolished by LaCl3. By comparison, 2APB inhibited receptor-induced force in rabbit femoral artery by 71%. 4. In the presence of the non-selective cation channel (NSCC) inhibitor, LOE-908, BE did not produce an increase in [Ca(2+)]i but did produce weak increases in myosin phosphorylation and force. 5. Inhibitors of ROK-induced Ca(2+) sensitization, HA-1077 and Y-27632, inhibited BE-induced force by approximately 50%, and in combination with LOE-908, nearly abolished force. 6. These data suggest that two principal muscarinic receptor-stimulated detrusor contractile mechanisms include NSCC activation, that elevates [Ca(2+)]i and ROK activation, that sensitizes cross bridges to Ca(2+).

Regional variation in myosin isoforms and phosphorylation at the resting tone in urinary bladder smooth muscle

Urinary bladder filling and emptying requires coordinated control of bladder body and urethral smooth muscles. Bladder dome, midbladder, base, and urethra showed significant differences in the percentage of 20-kDa myosin light chain (LC20) phosphorylation (35.45 +/- 4.6, 24.7 +/- 2.2, 13.6+/- 2.1, and 12.8 +/- 2.7%, respectively) in resting muscle. Agonist-mediated force was associated with a rise in LC20 phosphorylation, but the extent of phosphorylation at all levels of force was less for urethral than for bladder body smooth muscle. RT-PCR and quantitative competitive RT-PCR analyses of total RNA from bladder body and urethral smooth muscles revealed only a slight difference in myosin heavy chain mRNA copy number per total RNA, whereas mRNA copy numbers for NH2-terminal isoforms SM-B (inserted) and SM-A (noninserted) in these muscles showed a significant difference (2.28 x 10(8) vs. 1.68 x 10(8) for SM-B and 0.12 x 10(8) vs. 0.42 x 10(8) for SM-A, respectively), which was also evident at the protein level. The ratio of COOH-terminal isoforms SM2:SM1 in the urethra was moderately but significantly lower than that in other regions of the bladder body. A high degree of LC20 phosphorylation and SM-B in the bladder body may help to facilitate fast cross-bridge cycling and force generation required for rapid emptying, whereas a lower level of LC20 phosphorylation and the presence of a higher amount of SM-A in urethral smooth muscle may help to maintain the high basal tone of urethra, required for urinary continence.

NO donor sodium nitroprusside inhibits excitation-contraction coupling in guinea pig taenia coli

In guinea pig taenia coli, the nitric oxide (NO) donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 1 microM) reduced the carbachol-stimulated increases in muscle force in parallel with a decrease in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)). A decrease in the myosin light chain phosphorylation was also observed that was closely correlated with the decrease in [Ca(2+)](i). With the patch-clamp technique, 10 microM SNP decreased the peak Ba(2+) current, and this effect was blocked by an inhibitor of soluble guanylate cyclase. Carbachol (10 microM) induced an inward current, and this effect was markedly inhibited by SNP. SNP markedly increased the depolarization-activated outward K(+) currents, and this current was completely blocked by 0.3 micorM iberiotoxin. SNP (1 microM) significantly increased cGMP content without changing cAMP content. Decreased Ca(2+) sensitivity by SNP of contractile elements was not prominent in the permeabilized taenia, which was consistent with the [Ca(2+)](i)-force relationship in the intact tissue. These results suggest that SNP inhibits myosin light chain phosphorylation and smooth muscle contraction stimulated by carbachol, mainly by decreasing [Ca(2+)](i), which resulted from the combination of the inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels, the inhibition of nonselective cation currents, and the activation of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) currents.

cGMP-mediated phosphorylation of heat shock protein 20 may cause smooth muscle relaxation without myosin light chain dephosphorylation in swine carotid artery

Nitrovasodilators such as nitroglycerine, via production of nitric oxide and an increase in [cGMP], can induce arterial smooth muscle relaxation without proportional reduction in myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation or myoplasmic [Ca2+]. These findings suggest that regulatory systems, other than MLC phosphorylation and Ca2+, partially mediate nitroglycerine-induced relaxation. In swine carotid artery, we found that a membrane-permeant cGMP analogue induced relaxation without MLC dephosphorylation, suggesting that cGMP mediated the relaxation. Nitroglycerine-induced relaxation was associated with a reduction in O2 consumption, suggesting that the interaction between phosphorylated myosin and the thin filament was inhibited. Nitroglycerine-induced relaxation was associated with a 10-fold increase in the phosphorylation of a protein on Ser16. We identified this protein as heat shock protein 20 (HSP20), a member of a family of proteins known to bind to thin filaments. When homogenates of nitroglycerine-relaxed tissues were centrifuged at 6000 g, phosphorylated HSP20 preferentially sedimented in the pellet, suggesting that phosphorylation of HSP20 may increase its affinity for the thin filament. We noted that a domain of HSP20 is partially homologous to the 'minimum inhibitory sequence' of skeletal troponin I. The peptide HSP20110-121, which contains this domain, bound to actin-containing filaments only in the presence of tropomyosin, a characteristic of troponin I. High concentrations of HSP20110-121 abolished Ca2+-activated force in skinned swine carotid artery. HSP20110-121 also partially decreased actin-activated myosin S1 ATPase activity. These data suggest that cGMP-mediated phosphorylation of HSP20 on Ser16 may have a role in smooth muscle relaxation without MLC dephosphorylation. HSP20 contains an actin-binding sequence at amino acid residues 110-121 that inhibited force production in skinned carotid artery. We hypothesize that phosphorylation of HSP20 regulates force independent of MLC phosphorylation via binding of HSP20 to thin filaments and inhibition of cross-bridge cycling.

The presence of an extractable substance in the CSF of humans with cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid haemorrhage that correlates with phosphatase inhibition

The cellular events leading to cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid haemorrhage are poorly understood, although an increase in smooth muscle myosin light chain phosphorylation has been observed. This study set out to determine if phosphatase inhibition may be involved in the pathological maintenance of tension observed during vasospasm. We found that 1 nM okadaic acid, a type 2A protein phosphatase inhibitor, elicited an increase in rate of O(2) consumption in the porcine carotid artery similar to that by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from vasospastic patients (CSF(V), n=5) (control 0.23+/-0.03, CSF(V) 0.84+/-0.16 and okadaic acid 0.85+/-0.02 micromol min(-1) g dwt(-1)). It was also observed that phosphatase inhibition with 1 nM okadaic acid significantly slowed relaxation after a stretch in a similar fashion to CSF(V) haemorrhage. CSF from vasospastic subarachnoid haemorrhage patients, but not from those without vasospasm, contains an extractable substance which modulates myosin light chain phosphorylation in vitro. A phosphatase preparation obtained from the porcine carotid artery dephosphorylated 63+/-2% of the phosphorylated (MLC(20)) substrate in vitro, and non-vasospastic CSF treated enzyme dephosphorylated 60+/-2.6%. Okadaic acid inhibited phosphatase dephosphorylated only 7.5+/-1% of the substrate where CSF(V) treated enzyme dephosphorylated 22+/-2.8% of the substrate. We conclude that inhibition of smooth muscle phosphatase may be involved in the mechanisms associated with cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid haemorrhage.

ET(A) receptors are the primary mediators of myofilament calcium sensitization induced by ET-1 in rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle: a tyrosine kinase independent pathway

We have investigated the possibility that ET-1 can induce an increase in myofilament calcium sensitivity in pulmonary artery smooth muscle. Arterial rings were permeabilized using alpha-toxin (120 microg ml(-1)), in the presence of A23187 (10 microM) to 'knock out' Ca2+ stores, and pre-constricted with pCa 6.8 (buffered with 10 mM EGTA). In the presence of this fixed Ca2+ concentration, 1 microM ET-1 induced a sustained, reversible constriction of 0.15 mN. Pulmonary arterial rings were freeze-clamped at the peak of the induced constriction (time matched). Subsequent densitometric analysis revealed that ET-1 (1 microM) increased the level of phosphorylated myosin light chains by 34% compared to an 11% increase in the presence of pCa 6.8 alone. In contrast to ET-1, the selective ET(B) receptor agonist Sarafotoxin S6C (100 nM) failed to induce a significant constriction. The constriction induced by 1 microM ET-1 was reversibly inhibited when the preparation was preincubated (15 min) with the ETA receptor antagonist BQ 123 (100 microM). The constriction measured 0.13 mN in the absence and 0.07 mN in the presence of 100 microM BQ 123. In contrast, the constriction induced by 1 microM ET-1 measured 0.19 mN in the absence and 0.175 mN following a 15 min pre-incubation with the ET(B) antagonist BQ 788 (100 microM). The constriction induced by 1 microM ET-1 measured 0.14 mN in the presence and 0.13 mN following pre-incubation with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Tyrphostin A23 (100 microM). We conclude that ET-1 induced an increase in myofilament calcium sensitivity in rat pulmonary arteries via the activation of ET(A) receptors and by a mechanism(s) independent of tyrosine kinase.

Angiotensin II stimulates vesicular H+-ATPase in rat proximal tubular cells

Two mechanisms of H+ ion secretion in the proximal tubule that mediate bicarbonate reabsorption have been identified: the brush border Na/H exchanger and electrogenic H+ ion secretion. Angiotensin II (AII) has been shown to be a regulator of the luminal Na+/H+ exchanger and the basolateral Na+/HCO3- cotransporter. In the present study, we examined the effects of AII on H+-ATPase activity in isolated proximal tubule fragments. H+-ATPase activity was assessed by monitoring intracellular pH after Na+ removal from the bath. In addition, we investigated the effects on pH recovery of the proton pump inhibitor bafilomycin A1, removal of Cl-, and of colchicine. pH was continuously measured with the pH-sensitive fluorescent dye 2', 7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). Recovery of cell pH was observed in the absence of external Na+ and was significantly accelerated by AII. The AII-stimulated pH recovery was completely abolished by bafilomycin A1, by removal of Cl-, by NPPB [5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoate; a potent Cl- channel blocker], and by colchicine. We conclude from these studies that AII stimulates proton extrusion via H+-ATPase by a Cl--dependent process involving brush border insertion of vesicles. This process may contribute to up-regulation of HCO3- reabsorption along the proximal tubule when tubules are exposed to AII.

Using light scattering to locate less than a microgram of protein per band in polyacrylamide tube gels after isoelectric focusing

After separation by isoelectric focusing (IEF) or non-equilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis (NEPHGE) in 9.2 M urea polyacrylamide tube gels, proteins with Mr > 20,000 can be precipitated by shaking the gels in 25% methanol. When a fiber-optic illuminator is placed in contact with the end of the gel, the cylindrical gel transmits light by internal reflection. In regions of the gel where protein is precipitated, this light is scattered, making it visible when the gel is viewed in a darkened room against a black background. The sensitivity of the method is moderate: less than 1 microgram protein per band (in a 3-mm diameter gel) can be detected. Because the protein in the bands precipitates rapidly (30 min), the solution used (25% methanol) is fairly benign to proteins, and the apparatus is not expensive, this technique should be useful in several situations including electrophoretic purification schemes. This method is especially useful for evaluating the quality of an IEF or NEPHGE tube gel before using it for the second dimension of a two-dimensional gel.

Cellular mechanisms of cyclic nucleotide-induced vasorelaxation

PURPOSE

Endothelial-derived vasorelaxants such as prostacyclin and nitric oxide (NO) induce vascular smooth muscle relaxation through activation of cyclic nucleotide-dependent cellular signalling pathways. However, the specific events that lead to dissociation of actin and myosin and relaxation are not known. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the late phase signaling events that modulate vascular smooth muscle relaxation.

METHODS

Fresh bovine carotid artery smooth muscle (BCASM) contractile responses were determined in a muscle bath under Ca(2+)-containing and Ca(2+)-free conditions. Physiologic responses were correlated with phosphorylation events using whole cell phosphorylation and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis.

RESULTS

Cyclic nucleotide-dependent vasorelaxation can occur without detectable changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. However, vascular smooth muscles that had been precontracted with the phosphatase inhibitor calyculin were refractory to relaxation. Vascular smooth muscle relaxation was associated with an increase in the phosphorylation of two 20 kDa proteins under Ca(2+)-containing and Ca(2+)-free conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Ca(2+)-independent mechanisms may also modulate vascular smooth muscle relaxation. Two possible late phase signaling mechanisms include phosphatase activation and an increase in the phosphorylation of two 20 kDa phosphoproteins.

Purine and pyrimidine nucleotide metabolism of vascular smooth muscle cells in culture

1. Cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells accumulate extracellular breakdown products of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides that, over 9 hr, represent 60 +/- 7 and 78 +/- 17%, respectively, of the intracellular nucleotide content. 2. The accumulation is stimulated during contracture with 20 mM KCl or 70 microM carbachol, consistent with the notion that both pyrimidine and purine nucleotides are involved in the energetics of smooth muscle contracture. 3. Because the intracellular levels of pyrimidine and purine nucleotides remain constant, it appears likely that rates of synthesis match the rates of release. 4. Ectonucleotidases are present that can degrade ATP, UTP, and CTP. High-energy nucleotides may be the primary products released.

Focal increases in [Ca2+]i may account for apparent low Ca2+ sensitivity in swine carotid artery

Estimates of [Ca2+]i sensitivity in intact smooth muscle are frequently obtained by measuring [Ca2+]i with indicators such as aequorin or Fura-2. We investigated whether focal increases in [Ca2+]i could impair such measures of [Ca2+]i sensitivity. Stimulation of swine carotid artery with 10 microM histamine increased aequorin estimated [Ca2+]i, Fura-2 estimated [Ca2+]i and Ca2+ sensitivity without significantly altering the aequorin/Fura-2 ratio (an estimate of [Ca2+]i homogeneity). Subsequent inhibition of Na+/Ca2+ exchange by replacement of Na+ in the PSS with choline+ significantly increased aequorin-estimated [Ca2+]i but only minimally increased Fura-2 estimated [Ca2+]i, myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation and force. This resulted in a large increase in the aequorin/Fura-2 ratio, suggesting an increase in [Ca2+] inhomogeneity. Addition of 100 microM histamine to tissues in the choline+ buffer initially increased both aequorin and Fura-2 estimated [Ca2+]i, but after 10 min exposure both of the [Ca2+]i estimates declined to pre-histamine levels. Histamine addition significantly increased MLC phosphorylation and force, indicating increased Ca2+ sensitivity, but the aequorin/Fura-2 ratio remained elevated and unchanged from pre-histamine values. These data show that under certain conditions, aequorin and Fura-2 can yield widely differing estimates of [Ca2+]i and thus can cause misleading assessments of Ca2+ sensitization mechanisms. These discrepancies may arise from inhomogeneous or focal increases in [Ca2+]i which can be evaluated with the aequorin/Fura-2 ratio.

Dependence of force on length at constant cross-bridge phosphorylation in the swine carotid media

1. The dependence of force (F) on length (L) in smooth muscle remains uncertain since (i) it is influenced by changes in activation (myosin light chain phosphorylation), (ii) no anatomical reference length for the contractile unit is available, (iii) the length at which optimum force is generated (L(o)) exhibits a broad, flat optimum, and (iv) the presence of an extensive connective tissue network makes it difficult to stretch tissues without damage. 2. A swine carotid medial ring preparation prepared by removal of the adventitia and endothelium could be stretched to 1.8 L(o) without decreasing active force generation on return to shorter lengths. 3. A highly reproducible mechanically defined reference length, L(o), was obtained by fitting force-length data between 0.3 and 1.6 L(o) with a third-order polynomial where L = L(o) when dF/dL = 0. 4. Activation as assessed by myosin regulatory light chain (MRLC) phosphorylation increased with length in 100 microM histamine-stimulated tissues from 0.6 to 1.8 L(o). 5. Activation was constant in K(+)-depolarized and field-stimulated tissues from 1.0 to 1.8 L(o) allowing determination of the descending limb of the force-length relation to be assessed independently of activation. 6. The slope of the descending limb of the force-length relation was linear except at very long lengths, which often produced tissue damage. The slope was not statistically different from that estimated for sarcomeres in vertebrate skeletal muscle. 7. The medial ring preparation and the procedures used to define the reference length provide advantages for the measurement of length-dependent variables.

Contractions and relaxations accompanied by endothelial nitric oxide production induced in the porcine coronary artery by Ca2+, Ba2+ and Sr2+

In order to investigate the effects of Ca2+, Ba2+ and Sr2+ on vascular endothelial nitric oxide (NO) production, contractile and relaxant responses of porcine depolarized coronary arteries to these divalent cations were compared. In the presence of diltiazem, Ba2+ induced NO-dependent relaxation, Sr2+ did slightly and Ca2+ did not; however all three cations increased cGMP levels in endothelium-intact arteries to similar extents. In the absence of diltiazem, these cations evoked contractions: the EC50 of Ca2+ for endothelium-denuded arteries was lower than those of Ba2+ and Sr2+. The IC50 of diltiazem for arteries precontracted with Ca2+ was higher than for arteries precontracted with Ba2+ and Sr2+. These results suggest that Ba2+ and Sr2+, as well as Ca2+, activate coronary arterial NO production, and also that the different responses of coronary arteries to these divalent cations can be explained, in part, by the different sensitivities of the smooth muscle to these cations and by the different potencies of diltiazem to inhibit the contractions the cations induced.

Polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic methods in the separation of structural muscle proteins

Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis plays a major role in analyzing the function of muscle structural proteins. This review describes one- and two-dimensional gel electrophoretic methods for qualitative and quantitative investigation of the muscle proteins, with special emphasis on determination of protein phosphorylation. The electrophoretic studies established the subunit structures of the muscle proteins, characterized their multiple forms, revealed changes in subunit composition or shifts in isoform distribution of specific proteins during development, upon stimulation or denervation of the muscle. Protein phosphorylation during muscle contraction is preferentially studied by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. The same method demonstrated protein alterations in human neuromuscular diseases.