Widespread distribution of calcium pump in calcium-transporting tissues. Immunohistochemical studies

We examined the distribution of the plasma membrane calcium pump in several calcium-transporting tissues. Epitopes of the pump were found in the human kidney, specifically in the basolateral membrane of the distal tubule. The 28-kD calcium-binding protein co-localized with the calcium pump in cells of the distal tubule. Other human tissues that contain calcium pump epitopes include the basal surface of the syncytiotrophoblast of the placenta, human osteoblast-like cells and human choroid plexus. In the rat, calcium pump epitopes were found in the distal tubule of the kidney, the duodenum, the ileum, jejunum, placenta and in the choroid plexus. The pump is widely distributed in various calcium-transporting tissues and probably plays an important role in the translocation of calcium.

Experimentally-induced maternal hypothyroidism alters crucial enzyme activities in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of the offspring rat

Thyroid hormone insufficiency during neurodevelopment can result into significant structural and functional changes within the developing central nervous system (CNS), and is associated with the establishment of serious cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptomatology. The aim of the present study was to shed more light on the effects of gestational and/or lactational maternal exposure to propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothyroidism as a multilevel experimental approach to the study of hypothyroidism-induced changes on crucial brain enzyme activities of 21-day-old Wistar rat offspring in a brain region-specific manner. This experimental approach has been recently developed and characterized by the authors based on neurochemical analyses performed on newborn and 21-day-old rat offspring whole brain homogenates; as a continuum to this effort, the current study focused on two CNS regions of major significance for cognitive development: the frontal cortex and the hippocampus. Maternal exposure to PTU in the drinking water during gestation and/or lactation resulted into changes in the activities of acetylcholinesterase and two important adenosinetriphosphatases (Na(+),K(+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase), that seemed to take place in a CNS-region-specific manner and that were dependent upon the PTU-exposure timeframe followed. As these findings are analyzed and compared to the available literature, they: (i) highlight the variability involved in the changes of the aforementioned enzymatic parameters in the studied CNS regions (attributed to both the different neuroanatomical composition and the thyroid-hormone-dependent neurodevelopmental growth/differentiation patterns of the latter), (ii) reveal important information with regards to the neurochemical mechanisms that could be involved in the way clinical hypothyroidism could affect optimal neurodevelopment and, ultimately, cognitive function, as well as (iii) underline the need for the adoption of more consistent approaches towards the experimental simulation of congenital and early-age-occurring hypothyroidism.

ATPases and lipid peroxidation in the rat sciatic nerve in the course of experimental neoplastic disease

Peripheral nerve involvement in the course of neoplastic disease represents a clinically significant complication, with clinical uncertainties raising questions as to its pathophysiology. The aim of this study was the analysis of ATPase activities, lipid peroxidation and sulfhydryl groups in the sciatic nerve of tumor-bearing rats. We investigated also morphometric features of the sciatic nerve of experimental animals. An increase was noted in Na+/K+-ATPase and Mg+2-ATPase activities and elevation of conjugated diene and malonyldialdehyde contents, associated with a decrease in sulfhydryl groups in Morris-hepatoma-bearing rats. The morphometric evaluation revealed myelin sheath thickening, associated with an increase in axon cross-section area and degenerative changes in dorsal horns. In this study, the moderate lipid peroxidation in experimental neoplastic disease was demonstrated to lead to depletion of sulfhydryl groups in the degenerating rat sciatic nerve which was associated with stimulation of ATPase activities.

Changes in the structure and function of the kidney of rats chronically exposed to cadmium. II. Histoenzymatic studies

Early effects of cadmium (Cd) on the structure and function of the kidney were studied in an experimental model using rats intoxicated with Cd at the levels of 5 and 50 mg Cd/l drinking water. The effect of Cd was evaluated histopathologically and biochemically. Damage to the cellular structures was assessed on the basis of histoenzymatic analyses of the activity and localization of indicator enzymes (succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphatase, Mg(2+)-dependent adenosine triphosphatase and acid phosphatase). The histochemical observations indicate that Cd causes damage to the organization and function of the nephron. Several structures, i.e. endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondrion, lysosome, cellular and intracellular membrane, as well as their biological functions, i.e. aerobic and anaerobic respiration, transport functions and biochemical processes taking place in the endoplasmic reticulum, were affected. The cytotoxic action of Cd occurs mainly in the tubules and partially also in the glomeruli. The results clearly indicate that Cd damages kidney structurally and functionally even at a relatively low level (5 mg/l) corresponding to human environmental exposure, and they confirm our previous hypothesis that the threshold for the kidney effects of Cd is less than 4.08+/-0.33 microg/g kidney wet weight and higher than 2.40+/-0.15 microg/g. The target for Cd action in the kidney is the tubules (proximal convoluted tubules and straight tubules), and disturbance in their function is the main toxic effect of Cd. Renal glomeruli are also injured, but only partially, whereas in other parts of the nephron the damage is slight. The results, together with observations reported in the first paper of the study, incline us to conclude that humans environmentally exposed to Cd are at risk of tubular damage.

Severe intracellular magnesium and potassium depletion in patients after treatment with cisplatin

The purpose of this study is (1) to evaluate skeletal muscle magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) during treatment with cisplatin; (2) to evaluate the predictive value of plasma (P)-Mg for intracellular Mg during cisplatin treatment; and (3) to evaluate whether changes in intracellular K influence skeletal muscle Na,K-ATPase. In all, 65 patients had a needle muscle biopsy obtained before and 26 patients both before and after cisplatin treatment. Biopsies were analysed for Mg, K, and Na,K-ATPase concentrations, and P-Mg and P-K determined. Treatment with a total dose of ≈500 mg (270 mg m⁻² surface area) cisplatin over 80 days was associated with reductions in muscle [Mg] (95% CI) (8.95 (8.23–9.63) to 7.76 (7.34–8.18) μmol g⁻¹ wet wt. (P<0.01), and muscle [K] (90.81 (83.29–98.34) to 82.87 (78.74–87.00) μmol g⁻¹ wet wt. (P<0.05), as well as in P-Mg 0.82 (0.80–0.85) to 0.68 (0.64–0.73) mmol l⁻¹ (P<0.01 but not in P-K (4.0 (3.8–4.1) vs 3.8 (3.7–4.0) mmol l⁻¹). No simple correlations were observed between P-Mg and muscle [Mg], or between P-K and muscle [K], either before (n=65) or after (n=26) treatment with cisplatin. The changes in [Mg] and [K] were not associated with changes in the muscle Na,K-ATPase concentration. Following treatment with cisplatin, an ≈15% decline in P-Mg was accompanied by an ≈15% loss of muscle [Mg], as well as an ≈10% reduction of muscle [K] and fatigue and muscle weakness previously ascribed to hypomagnesaemia may therefore also be well explained by muscle K depletion observed despite normal levels of P-K. There was no correlation between P-Mg and SM-Mg or between P-K and SM-K. Thus, P-Mg and P-K are not reliable indicators for Mg and K depletion during treatment with cisplatin. However, the majority of patients will present Mg and K depletion after cisplatin therapy and of these only very few patients will present a low P-Mg or P-K. Therefore, routine supplementation should be considered in all patients receiving cisplatin.

Effects of long-term hypoxia and development on cardiac contractile proteins in fetal and adult sheep

OBJECTIVE

We studied the effect of long-term, high-altitude hypoxia on cardiac myosin, actin, and troponin T (TnT) isoforms and Ca(2+)- and Mg(2+)-activated myofibrillar adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activities in fetal and adult sheep.

METHODS

We exposed pregnant (beginning at day 30 of gestation) and nonpregnant sheep to high altitude (3820 m) for 110 days. Myosin, actin, and TnT isoforms were analyzed by Western analysis. In purified myofibrillar preparations, Ca(2+)(-) and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities were measured by the appearance of inorganic phosphate after the addition of NaATP and various concentrations of either calcium or magnesium to the reaction mixture.

RESULTS

We found no change in myosin, actin, or TnT isoform composition after exposure to long-term hypoxia in either fetal or adult sheep. However, Mg(2+)-activated myofibrillar ATPase activity decreased significantly in the right ventricle of both fetus and adult after hypoxic exposure. There was also a significant maturational increase in both Ca(2+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase activity in control animals.

CONCLUSION

The decrease in Mg(2+)-activated myofibrillar ATPase activity might affect the decrease in cardiac contractility previously noted in the right ventricle of fetal sheep after exposure to long-term hypoxia. Likewise, the increase in Ca(2+)- and Mg(2+)-activated ATPase activities from the fetus to adult could partially explain the previously found maturational increase in cardiac contractility.

Myofibrillar Ca2+-stimulated Mg2+-ATPase from chronically ischemic canine heart

Functional properties of myofibrils from chronically ischemic canine myocardium were evaluated. Ischemia was produced by tight stenosis of left anterior descending artery (LAD), followed by 40 min acute ischemia with prior preconditioning. Animals of the first group were sacrificed after 8 weeks. In the second group, angioplasty of LAD was performed after 8 weeks of ischemia and animals were kept alive for other 4 weeks. Control animals were sham operated. Activity and kinetic parameters of myofibrillar Ca2+-stimulated Mg2+-ATPase were measured in myofibrils isolated from anterior and posterior parts of all hearts. We did not find any differences in maximal velocity (Vmax), half-maximal activation constant for calcium (K(Ca2+)50) and cooperativity coefficient (n(hill)) of myofibrils from different experimental groups as compared to controls, either at pH 7, pH 6.5 (acidosis) or pH 7.5 (alkalosis). K(Ca2+)50 increased in medium simulated acidosis (12.6-33.5 times) and n(hill) decreased significantly in all groups as compared with values obtained at pH 7. These results indicate that activity and Ca2+-sensitivity of myofibrillar Mg2+-ATPase remain unchanged despite deteriorated heart function 8 weeks after LAD obstruction. Experiments have confirmed that Ca2+-stimulated-ATPase from canine heart myofibrils responded to pH decrease by a decreased sensitivity to Ca2+ and a decreased cooperativity. However, sensitivity of the enzyme to the pH changes is unaltered by 8 weeks of chronic ischemia.

Cytochemical and biochemical demonstration of an ATPase in membranes of human peroxisomes

We demonstrated a neutral Mg-ATPase activity in human peroxisomal membranes. To establish the precise experimental conditions for detection of this ATPase, both cytochemical and biochemical characterizations were first carried out in liver peroxisomes from control and cipofibrate-treated rats. The results demonstrated an Mg-ATPase reaction in both normal and proliferated peroxisomes. The nucleotidase activity, with marked preference for ATP, was sensitive to the inhibitors N-ethylmaleimide and 7-chloro-4-nitro-benzo-2-oxadiazole (NBDCl). An ultrastructural cytochemical analysis was developed to evaluate the peroxisomal localization, which localized the reaction product to the peroxisomal membrane. These characteristics can help to differentiate the peroxisomal ATPase from the activity found in mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. The conditions established for detecting the rat peroxisomal ATPase were then applied to human peroxisomes isolated from liver and skin fibroblasts in culture. A similar Mg-ATPase activity was readily shown, both cytochemically and biochemically, in the membranes of human peroxisomes. These results, together with previous evidence, strongly support the presence of a specific ATPase in the human peroxisomal membrane. This ATPase may play a crucial role in peroxisome biogenesis.

Ca++, Mg++-ATPase activity in insulin-dependent and non-insulin dependent diabetic Nigerians

A study of Ca++, Mg++-ATPase activity was carried out in normal (HHm) and diabetic Nigerians of both sexes with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). The results showed that protein concentration of erythrocyte ghost membranes of healthy humans (HHm) was the highest when compared with protein concentrations of IDDM and NIDDM patients. The protein concentration was lowest in IDDM, while the value in NIDDM was between those of HHm and IDDM. The basal activities of erythrocyte Ca++-ATPase from IDDM and NIDDM were determined and were found to be significantly lower than that of HHm. The addition of calmodulin (CaM) 2 microg/ml stimulated the activity of the calcium pump in all the groups (IDDM, NIDDM and HHm). The effects of calcium (Ca++) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) on the activity of the pump from each group were determined. Enzyme kinetics (Km and Vmax) revealed that the activity of Ca++, Mg++-ATPase was initiated by ATP in the presence of Ca++ in a dose-dependent manner. Calmodulin also enhanced the activity of the enzyme in the presence of Ca++ in all the groups, though activities in IDDM and NIDDM were significantly lower than in HHm. There was no significant difference in the activities between IDDM and NIDDM. These results suggest a defective calcium translocating mechanism in diabetic Nigerians.

Pharmacological and immunohistochemical characterization of calmodulin-stimulated (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase in cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells

Plasma membrane (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase and Ca(2+) transport activities, best characterized in human erythrocytes, are stimulated by calmodulin and thought to play a crucial role in the termination of cellular Ca(2+) signaling in all cells. In plasma membranes isolated from cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells, the (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase was not readily measured. This is in part because of an overabundance of nonspecific Ca(2+)- and/or Mg(2+)-activated ecto-5'-nucleotide phosphohydrolases. Moreover, addition of exogenous calmodulin (10(-9) to 10(-6) mol/L) produced no measurable stimulation of ATPase activities, suggesting a permanently activated state or, alternatively, a complete lack thereof. To establish and verify the presence of a calmodulin-regulated (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase activity in these endothelial cells, immunohistochemical localization using a monoclonal mouse anti-(Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase antibody (clone 5F10) was applied to intact pig aorta endothelium, cultured endothelial monolayers, and isolated endothelial plasma membrane fractions. This approach clearly demonstrated Ca(2+) pump immunoreactivity in each of these preparations. To confirm functional calmodulin stimulation of the (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase, 10(-5) mol/L calmidazolium (R24571) was added to the isolated plasma membrane preparation, which lowered the (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase activity from 143.0 to 78.15 nmol P(i)/mg protein x min(-1). This calmidazolium-reduced activity could then be stimulated 113.1+/-0.8% in a concentration-dependent manner by the addition of exogenous calmodulin (10(-7) to 2 x 10(-6) mol/L) with an EC(50) of 3.45+/-0.04 x 10(-7) mol/L (n=4). This represents a competitive lowering of the apparent calmodulin affinity by approximately 100 compared with other unopposed calmodulin-stimulated processes. Together, these findings support evidence for the presence of a calmodulin-stimulated plasma membrane (Ca(2+)+Mg(2+))-ATPase activity in cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells.

Isolation of viable cell types from the gill epithelium of Japanese eel Anguilla japonica

High-purity viable cells with low mitochondria (pavement cells) and mitochondria-rich content (chloride cells) were successfully isolated from the gill epithelium of Japanese eels, using three-step Percoll gradient low-speed centrifugation. Cytochemistry (silver staining for chloride, rhodamine-123, and Mitotracker for mitochondria and actin/spectrin immunofluorescence) and scanning electron microscope images were used to identify the cell types in the gill epithelium of the eel. Pavement cells were isolated at 97 and 98% purity for freshwater- and seawater-adapted eels, respectively, and chloride cells were obtained at 89 and 92% purity. The enzymatic activities of the isolated cells were determined. Na+-K+-ATPase, Mg2+-ATPase, and succinate dehydrogenase were found mainly in the chloride cell. Alkaline Ca2+-ATPase and low- and high-affinity Ca2+-ATPase were about twice as high in the chloride cell compared with the pavement cell. Transfer of eels to seawater resulted in enlargement of chloride cell sizes and significant increases in Na+-K+-ATPase, Mg2+-ATPase, and succinate dehydrogenase activities, while all Ca2+-ATPases declined by approximately 60-80%. This is the first report demonstrating the successful isolation of freshwater chloride cells and also an exclusive method of getting high-purity seawater chloride cells. The isolated cells are viable and suitable for further cytological and molecular studies to elucidate the mechanisms of ionic transport.

Separation of radiolabeled orthophosphate and adenosine 5'-triphosphate by 20% polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis: an assay for brain microsomal Mg2+/Ca2+ ATPase activity

Measuring orthophosphate is an important tool in biochemical analyses used to study membrane transport ATPases essential for calcium homeostasis. Current techniques involve extraction of radioactive phosphate with organic solvents, a technique that results in large quantities of hazardous radioactive waste. Other colorimetric assays are less sensitive and are complicated by interference of background absorbance from membrane tissue and unutilized ATP. This report describes a unique assay for the detection of inorganic phosphate and its application to the study of rat brain microsomal Mg2+/Ca2+ ATPase from a membrane fraction. The technique involves the separation of radioactive phosphate from unused gamma-radiolabeled ATP by resolution on 20% polyacrylamide gels. Both are visualized with X-ray film and quantitated by liquid scintillation counting after extraction from the gels. The assay can detect as little as 4.1 pmol of radiolabeled ATP and ATPase activity in 3.5 ng/microliter of membrane protein. This method offers the advantage of simultaneous quantitation of radiolabeled ATP and radioactive orthophosphate without the generation of large quantities of radioactive waste. The results demonstrate the development of a novel assay procedure for quantitating orthophosphate that is extremely sensitive, reproducible, and applicable to the study of any phosphate liberating enzyme.

Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide interaction with the voltage-dependent anion channel from sarcoplasmic reticulum

In a recent study [Shoshan-Barmatz, V., Orr, I., Weil, S., Meyer, H., Varsanyi, M. & Heilmeyer, L. M. G. (1996) FEBS Lett. 386, 205-210] we have demonstrated the presence of the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) in skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) as supported here by co-localization of VDAC and (Ca2+ + Mg2+)ATPase in the SR using double-immunogold labeling. The interaction of the carboxyl-modifying reagent dicyclohexylcarbodiimide with the SR-VDAC is characterized by labeling with [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide modification of the reconstituted-purified VDAC channel activity. In both SR and mitochondrial membranes, [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide most specifically labeled a 35-kDa protein, identified as VDAC by specific anti-VDAC Ig. Labeling of the SR-VDAC was about twofold higher than that of the mitochondrial VDAC, which could result either form higher labeling of the SR protein or from relatively higher amounts of VDAC/mg total protein in the SR membranes. [14C]Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide labeling of the SR, but not the mitochondrial VDAC, was biphasic with respect to time and concentration of [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. Partial digestion of [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-labeled SR-VDAC with chymotrypsin yielded five proteolytic fragments which were recognized by the anti-VDAC Ig, and the dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding site was localized in the 19-kDa fragment. VDAC was purified from SR and mitochondrial membranes by spermine-agarose column. The interaction of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide with functional carboxyl residue(s) in the purified VDAC is demonstrated by recording its channel activity, following its reconstitution into planar lipid bilayer (PLB). Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide inhibited the channel activity in a voltage-dependent manner, requiring incubation with dicyclohexylcarbodiimide at high (negative or positive) potentials. Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide slowed down the transition from the high-conducting to a long-lived low-conducting states of the channel (approximately 20% of its maximal conductance), by stabilizing the intermediate states. Similar results were also obtained with purified-reconstituted mitochondrial VDAC. Hydrophilic carboxyl reagents [[1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylamino)propyl] carbodiimide, N-ethyl-phenylisoxazolium-3'-sulfonate] neither modified the channel activity nor prevented [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide labeling. These results indicate that dicyclohexylcarbodiimide interacts with a carboxyl group located in a hydrophobic region of the protein which is involved in the channel gating.

[Enzymatic markers of cell membranes in rats during adaptation to hypoxic hypoxia]

The activities of Na+, K(+)-ATPase and 5'-nucleotidase of the plasma membranes, Ca++, Mg(++)-ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondrial cytochrome C-oxidase and succinate dehydrogenase were investigated in the brain, liver and gastrocnemius muscle of Wistar rats at various terms of adaptation to hypoxic hypobaric intermittent hypoxia. An increase in the activity of Na+, K(+)-ATPase and mitochondrial enzymes (mostly in the liver) as well as in the activity of Ca++, Mg(++)-ATPase in the skeletal muscle beginning from 14 days of adaptation have been shown. Starting with the same term the authors have registered the less marked changes of the enzymic markers of cell membranes in adapted rats under additional acute and severe hypoxic test when compared to unadapted animals. Possible changes in the regulation of membrane-bound enzyme activity during the process of adaptation to hypoxic hypoxia have been discussed.

Quantitative immunocytochemistry of Ca(2+)-Mg2+ ATPase in ameloblasts associated with enamel secretion and maturation in the rat incisor

Our previous studies revealed intense membrane-associated labeling for Ca(2+)-Mg2+ ATPase (Ca(2+)-pump) in secretory and maturation ameloblasts in the rat incisor, both by enzyme cytochemistry and by immunohistochemical techniques. The purpose of the present study was to map the distribution of Ca(2+)-pump protein at the cellular and subcellular levels by means of a Ca(2+)-pump-specific monoclonal antibody and electron microscopic immunogold cytochemistry. Tissue specimens were dissected from secretory, early, and late enamel maturation zones. We quantified results by comparing gold particle densities over ameloblast lateral and distal plasma membrane regions, supranuclear cytoplasm, regions of the ruffled borders, and nuclei. The highest concentration of gold particles was seen over the distal membranes of early-maturation ameloblasts relative to those in late-maturation and secretory stages. Cytoplasmic labeling was less than that of the distal and lateral membranes, and gold particles located over nuclei were considered to be due to non-specific binding. These results are consistent with our earlier findings and suggest a role for the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-pump in the regulation of calcium availability to mineralizing enamel.

Thiazide treatment of rats provokes apoptosis in distal tubule cells

We studied the effects of inhibition of apical NaCl entry on the structural correlates for electrolyte transport in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) of rats. Thiazide diuretics were used to block NaCl entry specifically in the DCT. Metolazone or hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) were applied for three days subcutaneously via osmotic minipumps. The renal epithelial structure of control and treated rats was studied by light and electron microscopy. Distribution of the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (rTSC1), calbindin D28K and Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase was examined by immunohistochemistry, and the content of rTSC1 transcripts by Northern blot and in situ hybridization. In treated rats the DCT epithelium had lost the structural characteristics of electrolyte transporting epithelia and the cells were in different stages of apoptosis. In damaged cells calbindin D28K and Ca(2+)-Mg(2+)-ATPase were strongly decreased; the rTSC1 was shifted from the luminal membrane to the basal cell half and was found additionally in small membrane vesicles in intercellular and peritubular spaces. Transcripts of rTSC1 were drastically reduced in homogenates of kidney cortex and almost absent in damaged DCT cells. All other tubular segments were unaffected by the treatment. Focal inflammatory infiltrates were found to be specifically surrounding DCT profiles. Thus, inhibition by thiazides of apical NaCl entry into DCT cells is associated with apoptosis of DCT cells and focal peritubular inflammation.

Cytochemical localization of ecto-ATPases in rat neurohypophysis

We studied the distribution of Ca(2+)- or Mg(2+)-dependent ATPase activity in rat neurohypophysis using the lead cytochemical method of Ando et al. In electron microscopy, precipitates were found lining the outer surface of the plasma membrane surrounding nerve endings and pituicytes. These precipitates were believed to represent the activity of ecto-ATPases (as opposed to Ca pump ATPases) for the following reasons: there was equal activation by Ca2+ in the absence of Mg2+ or Mg2+ in the absence of Ca2+; the effects of the two ions were not additive; there was activation by ATP or GTP; and there was resistance to glutaraldehyde fixation, to high (10 mM) Ca2+ concentrations, and to various inhibitors such as NEM, vanadate, oligomycin, quercetin, p-chloromercuribenzoate, ouabain, and levamisole. Cytosolic activity observed in certain nerve endings in the same conditions of incubation but more sensitive to NEM is also described and discussed.

Cytochemical localization of Ca(2+)-ATPases and demonstration of ATP-dependent calcium sequestration in giant smooth muscle fibres of Beroe

A cytochemical analysis of the mechanisms underlying cytosolic calcium regulation was undertaken in the giant smooth muscle fibres of the marine invertebrate Beroe. The ability of the sarcoplasmic reticulum to accumulate Ca2+ was demonstrated on living skinned single cells. In the presence of oxalate, and physiological concentrations of Ca2+, calcium oxalate crystals were formed in the lumen of tubules and cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The subcellular distribution of Ca(2+)-ATPase was studied with a cytochemical technique; a dense precipitate resulting from Ca(2+)-ATPase activity was found on the plasma membrane, on the membranes of tubules and cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and in mitochondria.

The possible relevance of autoxidative glycosylation in glucose mediated alterations of proteins: an in vitro study on myofibrillar proteins

The present work was carried out to examine the role of glycation and transition metal catalysed autoxidation of sugars in glucose-mediated alterations of myofibrillar proteins. Myofibrils were prepared from rat skeletal muscle and incubated with 1) sugar alone 2) sugar and micromolar concentrations of transition metals (Cu2+ or Fe3+) 3) transition metals alone and the control remained without sugar or transition metals. A significant increase in extent of glycation and decrease in ATPase activity of myofibrils incubated under autoxidative conditions were observed over the other three incubations. Reducing agent 2-mercaptoethanol was highly effective in preventing the alterations induced by glucoxidation, compared to EDTA and aminoguanidine, suggesting the involvement of thiol group oxidation in the reduced function of the protein. Free radical scavengers like catalase, benzoic acid and mannitol were also effective in preventing glucose mediated alterations. Although a high concentration of glucose alone has an insignificant effect on myofibrils in vitro, the results from the present work suggest that glucose in combination with transition metals could lead to functional alterations of myofibrils, and this process by generating free radicals may contribute to the overall complications of diabetes and aging.

Morphometric and metabolic profile of the distal segment of the internal mammary artery: caution on its use for coronary anastomoses

OBJECTIVE

Elastic arteries were found to be less prone to intimal hyperplasia than muscular arteries. The internal mammary artery (IMA), which is elastic in its proximal segment, presents a gradual decrease of media elastic fibers along its downstream course. Metabolic and morphometric studies of the distal end of the IMA with regard to its local susceptibility to develop intimal changes were undertaken in order to evaluate the reliability of its use as an anastomotic site for bypass grafting.

METHODS

Twenty distal segments of IMA were harvested from patients who had undergone myocardial revascularization. Histologic, enzyme-histochemical and morphometric studies were undertaken on these arterial segments.

RESULTS

Histologic examinations indicated an elastomuscular structure in 13 patients, a muscular structure in 6 and an elastic structure in 1. Of the 20 IMAs, none was found to have intimal thickening of greater than 25% of the diameter of the lumen. The enzyme-histochemical profile of the proliferating cells found in the intimal thickening differed from normal contractile smooth muscle medial cells in the loss of myosin and mitochondrial ATPase, plasma membrane 5' nucleotidase, moderately decreased aerobic dehydrogenase and increased lactate dehydrogenase activity and ribonucleoprotein-linked pyroninophilia. Lysosomal beta-glucuronidase and sulfatase were strongly active. This enzyme behavior is unfavorable to contractile function and favorable to cell proliferation and lipid accumulation, two events strongly involved in the atherogenic process.

CONCLUSION

Intimal proliferative changes were observed in the distal segment of the IMA. Although there was no histologic evidence of atherosclerotic plaque, the enzyme-histochemical profile of this intimal thickening was favorable to cell proliferation and lipid accumulation. These findings suggest that it may be beneficial to avoid coronary anastomoses with the distal end of the IMA and to use a more proximal/elastic segment.

Altered lipid composition and differential changes in activities of membrane-bound enzymes of erythrocytes in hepatic cirrhosis

Lipid composition, fluidity, and Na+,K(+)-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), Mg(2+)-ATPase, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities of erythrocyte membranes were examined in comparison to plasma lipid composition and lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activities in 39 patients with hepatic cirrhosis due to viral hepatitis (Child-Pugh class A, n = 12; class B, n = 13; and class C, n = 14). Plasma LCAT activities decreased and the plasma free-cholesterol to phospholipid molar ratio (C/PL) increased with progressive severity of hepatic cirrhosis. C/PL and fluorescence polarization (inverse of fluidity) of erythrocyte membranes also increased with disease progression (C/PL: Child-Pugh A, 0.911 +/- 0.010; B, 0.941 +/- 0.011; C, 0.979 +/- 0.028; and normal, 0.798 +/- 0.010; fluorescence polarization: Child-Pugh A, 0.348 +/- 0.002; B, 0.351 +/- 0.002; C, 0.355 +/- 0.002; and normal, 0.340 +/- 0.002). There was a correlation between C/PL and fluorescence polarization of erythrocyte membranes (r = .629, P < .001). Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity of erythrocyte membranes did not differ between cirrhotic patients and normal subjects. On the other hand, Mg(2+)-ATPase activity decreased in Child-Pugh C cirrhosis. AChE activity was decreased in Child-Pugh A cirrhosis, and decreased further in Child-Pugh B and C cirrhosis. AChE and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities correlated inversely with fluorescence polarization (r = -.652, P < .001 and r = -.381, P < .01, respectively).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Renaissance of cytochemical localization of membrane ATPases in the myocardium

ATPases of cardiac cells are known to be among the most important enzymes to maintain the fluxes of vital cations by hydrolysis of the terminal high-energy phosphate of ATP. Biochemically the activities of Ca(2+)-pump ATPase, Ca2+/Mg(2+)-ecto ATPase, Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase are determined in homogenates and isolated membranes as well as in myofibrillar and mitochondrial fractions of various purities. Such techniques permit estimation of enzyme activities in vitro under optimal conditions without precise enzyme topography. On the other hand, cytochemical methods demonstrate enzyme activity in situ, but not under optimal conditions. Until recently several cytochemical methods have been employed for each enzyme in order to protect its specific activity and precise localization but the results are difficult to interpret. To obtain more consistent data from biochemical and cytochemical point of view, we modified cytochemical methods in which unified conditions for each ATPase were used. The fixative solution (1% paraformaldehyde-0.2% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M Tris Base buffer, pH 7.4), the same cationic concentrations of basic components in the incubation medium (0.1 M Tris Base, 2 mM Pb(NO2)3, 5 mM MgSO4, 5 mM ATP) and selective stimulators or inhibitors were employed. The results reveal improved localization of Ca(2+)-pump ATPase, Na(+)-K+ ATPase and Ca2+/Mg(2+)-ecto ATPase in the cardiac membrane.

Use of thermal analysis to distinguish magnesium and calcium stimulated ATPase activity in isolated transverse tubules from skeletal muscle

The presence of calcium stimulated adenosine triphosphatase (Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase) activity in isolated transverse tubule (t-tubule) membranes is distinguished from magnesium adenosine triphosphatase (Mg(2+)-ATPase) activity on the basis of differing thermal stabilities. The Mg(2+)-ATPase is the major protein component of the t-tubule membrane, and it can be difficult to discriminate between the low levels of Ca2+ stimulated ATPase activity found in isolates of t-tubules compared to the much higher Mg(2+)-ATPase activity. Thermal analysis reveals different inactivation temperatures (Ti) for the proteins responsible for ATP dependent calcium transport (Ti = 49 degrees C) and Mg(2+)-ATPase activity (Ti = 57 degrees C) in isolated t-tubule membranes. The differential scanning calorimetry profile of t-tubule membranes consists of three major components with transition temperatures (Tm) of 51 degrees C, 57 degrees C and 63 degrees C. Denaturation of the component with Tm = 57 degrees C correlates with inactivation of Mg(2+)-ATPase activity, and denaturation of the Tm = 51 degrees C component correlates with the inactivation of Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity and calcium transport. The functions of the t-tubule membrane component or components that denature with Tm = 63 degrees C have yet to be identified. The lack of stimulation of calcium transport in isolated t-tubules by oxalate, the impermeability of isolated t-tubules to oxalate, and experiments performed on t-tubules with defined amounts of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) added suggest that contamination of the isolated t-tubules by SR is unlikely to account for the level of Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity detected. The presence of a Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase in the t-tubule membrane would provide a mechanism that may be involved in the partial removal of calcium that is accumulated in the junctional space during muscle relaxation or calcium that is released from the terminal cisternae of sarcoplasmic reticulum during excitation-contraction coupling.

A new type of Ca(2+)-dependent, Mg(2+)-stimulated ATPase of rat liver plasma membrane

Incubation of a glycoprotein fraction obtained from rat liver plasma membrane which has been previously well characterized using [gamma-32P]ATP results in the phosphorylation of a 230-kDa glycoprotein (pgp230). It is composed of a 120-kDa subunit (pgp120) and a 110-kDa subunit (pgp110) linked by interchain disulfide bonds. Peptide maps of pgp120 and pgp110 suggest extensive similarity in their polypeptide chains. Glycan analysis reveals between four and six hybrid-type oligosaccharide chains for both phosphoproteins. Immunoblotting using monoclonal antibodies and endoglycosidase digestion exclude an identity of pgp120 or pgp110 with the hepatocyte plasma membrane glycoproteins dipeptidylpeptidase IV or the taurocholate transport protein, which co-purify and co-migrate in SDS/PAGE. Protein phosphorylation is Ca(2+)-dependent (K0.5(Ca2+) = 0.35 microM, in the absence of Mg2+). In the presence of Mg2+, the glycoprotein undergoes rapid cycles of phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, resulting in ATPase activity. Analysis of phosphorylated amino acids identifies phosphothreonine as the major one. Photoaffinity labeling with 8-azido-[alpha-32P]ATP demonstrates the presence of one or more ATP binding site(s). Preincubation of pgp230 with various purine or pyrimidine nucleotides (ATP, UTP, TTP, ADP, GDP, AMP, CMP) or known P2-purinoceptor agonists or antagonists (adenosine 5'-[alpha,beta-methylene]triphosphate, 2-methyl-thio-adenosine 5'-triphosphate, suramin) inhibits its phosphorylation by [gamma-32P]ATP. The biological function of pgp230 is unknown at present. Several findings of the present study are compatible with the idea that pgp230 may be involved in a P2-purinoceptor function of the hepatocyte. Following this concept, a mechanism is discussed where a cytosolically exposed high-affinity Ca(2+)-binding site of pgp230 would allow for receptor feedback control, via phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, by sensing changes in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration.

Identification of coelomocyte unconventional myosin and its association with in vivo particle/vesicle motility

Sea urchin coelomocytes undergo an inducible structural transformation from petalloid to filopodial form during the ‘clotting’ response in sea urchins. Using a petalloid coelomocyte model, stimulated coelomocytes exhibited bidirectional particle/vesicle motility with a broad distribution of velocities, ranging from 0.02 to 0.12 microns s-1 in the outward bound direction. Coelomocytes treated with the microtubule-disrupting drug, nocodazole, continued to exhibit outward particle/vesicle movements along linear paths with an average velocity of 0.028 +/- 0.006 microns s-1. We partially purified a 110 kDa polypeptide possessing K+EDTA-, Ca2(+)-, Mg2(+)- and F-actin-activated Mg(2+)-ATPase activities characteristic of myosin-like motor proteins. The 110 kDa protein immuno-crossreacted with both affinity-purified, anti-brush border unconventional myosin-I polyclonal antibodies and anti-Acanthamoeba myosin head monoclonal antibodies. By indirect immunofluorescence, the 110 kDa unconventional myosin was localized to clusters of particles/vesicles within the perinuclear region of unstimulated coelomocytes, an area containing numerous mitochondria, acidic, lysosomal and Golgi organelles. Indirect immunofluorescence of partially transformed and filopodial coelomocytes detected a diminution of perinuclear staining with a concomitant appearance of stained linear arrays of particles/vesicles, enhanced staining of peripheral lamellae, and staining of the entire length of the filopodia. Subfractionation of unstimulated coelomocyte homogenates on linear sucrose gradients identified distinct peaks of ATPase activity associated with fractions containing conventional and 110 kDa unconventional myosin. Unconventional myosin-containing fractions were found to have numerous particles that stained with anti-brush border unconventional myosin-I antibodies and the lipophilic dye, DiOC6. Thus, coelomocytes demonstrate activatable movements of particles/vesicles in cells devoid of microtubules and possess an unconventional myosin, which may be the motor protein driving particle/vesicle translocation.

High-affinity Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase in plasma membrane-rich preparations from olfactory epithelium of Atlantic salmon

High-affinity Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase was identified in a plasma membrane-rich fraction of olfactory epithelium from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The enzyme required both Ca2+ and Mg2+ for activation. The apparent Km for Ca2+ was 9.5 nM and Vmax was 0.85 mumol Pi/mg of protein per min. Stimulation by Ca2+ was optimal at 5-100 microM MgCl2. Bovine brain calmodulin had no effect on Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase, even after multiple washes of the membrane preparation with EDTA or EGTA. Endogenous calmodulin was somewhat resistant to removal and could be detected with immunoblotting after multiple washes of the membrane preparation with EDTA or EGTA. This endogenous calmodulin may regulate Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity because the activity was inhibited by calmidazolium. Vanadate inhibited Ca2+,Mg(2)-ATPase activity and thapsigargin, a specific inhibitor for Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase of endoplasmic reticulum, had no effect on the enzyme activity. High affinity Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase exists in both ciliary and nonciliary membranes with a similar Km for Ca2+. Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity is greater in cilia preparations than in membranes from the deciliated olfactory epithelium. As a putative plasma membrane Ca2+ pump, this high-affinity Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase may play an important role in the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ in olfactory epithelia. In particular, the ciliary membrane may play a prominent role in the removal of Ca2+ from ciliated olfactory receptor cells after odorant stimulation.

Low-frequency stimulation of rat fast-twitch muscle enhances the expression of hexokinase II and both the translocation and expression of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT-4)

This study followed changes in the capacities of uptake and phosphorylation of glucose in response to contractile activity in low-frequency stimulated (10Hz, 24 h/d) rat fast-twitch muscle. We investigated the intracellular distribution of GLUT-4, the major glucose transporter isoform in muscle, changes in the amounts of its specific mRNA and total cellular protein, as well as changes in its relative synthesis rate. These analyses were complemented by measurements of total hexokinase activity and hexokinase II (HKII) expression at the levels of mRNA content and protein synthesis. Changes in protein synthesis were determined by in vivo labeling with [35S]methionine. Translocation of GLUT-4 into the sarcolemma was an immediate response to contractile activity, whereas changes in its total amount were observed only with ongoing stimulation (5 d and longer). A twofold increase in GLUT-4 content after 5 d and longer stimulation periods was preceded by elevations of its mRNA and by enhanced [35S]methionine incorporation. Conversely, increases in HKII expression with a rise in total hexokinase activity occurred soon after the onset of stimulation (30-fold elevations of HKII mRNA after 12 h and 20-fold increases in [35S]methionine incorporation after 24 h). With ongoing stimulation, HKII mRNA and synthesis returned to lower levels (fivefold elevations). Nevertheless, hexokinase activity continued to rise, stabilizing at fivefold-elevated levels after 3 d. These observation suggested that posttranscriptional mechanisms contributed to the upregulation of HKII, e.g. stabilization by elevated intracellular glucose and mitochondrial binding of the enzyme. This suggestion was supported by experiments with cessation after 24 h where hexokinase activity continued to increase, although the mRNA content and, especially, the [35S]methionine incorporation decayed steeply. The increase in HKII prior to GLUT-4 suggests that phosphorylation may be rate limiting in glucose utilization of glycolytic fibers under conditions of sustained contractile activity. Taken together, the changes in distribution and content of GLUT-4, as well as in HKII represent early metabolic adaptations. In addition, they are related to the overall process of stimulation-induced fiber type transformation.

Development and cell phenotypes in primary follicles of foetal sheep lymph nodes

Lymph nodes from sheep foetuses and postnatal lambs were examined to determine the participation of different leucocyte populations in primary follicle formation, with special emphasis on the emergence and subsequent development of follicular dendritic cells during late gestation and early postnatal life. A series of immune and enzyme histochemical markers was used. The first 5'-nucleotidase-positive primary follicles were found at 80 days gestational age (gestation in sheep is 150 days) in superficial cervical lymph nodes. In the last month of gestation the primary follicles possessed follicular dendritic cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and CD5-positive lymphocytes, in addition to IgM-positive cells. Follicular dendritic cells in primary follicles were found to be ultrastructurally immature. These follicular dendritic cells were characterised by a few, course surface projections and many ribosomes attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. A final differentiation to mature follicular dendritic cells was coincident with the postnatal germinal centre reaction. Computer-assisted morphometric analysis demonstrated that the size of 5'-nucleotidase-positive primary follicles in the distal jejunal lymph node, but not in the superficial cervical lymph node, increased significantly during late gestation. It was concluded that stromal cells in primary follicles of foetal sheep lymph nodes were a continuously developing population but that ultrastructural maturity was only achieved in the germinal centres of postnatal lambs.

[Na, K-ATPase activity in the erythrocyte membrane preparations and kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats]

The enzyme activity in the cortex and medulla of the SHR was 1.5-2.0-fold lower than that of the WKY and Wistar rats. The Na, K-ATPase and Ca-ATPase activities were by 25 and 15% lower in the erythrocyte ghosts of the SHR than in normotensive rats. Removal of protein of the membrane skeleton from the erythrocyte membranes abolished the difference in the enzyme activity of normo- and hypertensive rats. The lower Na, K-ATPase activity in the SHR kidney seems to be an etiological factor in development of primary hypertension.

[Ca(2+)+Mg2+]-dependent ATPase activity in rat pineal gland

[Ca(2+)+Mg2+]-dependent ATPase activity in the pineal gland of the rat was examined. The enzyme possesses an apparent Km (Ca2+) of 0.23 microM, and moderately high affinity for Mg2+ and ATP (Km = 53.2 microM and Km = 86.4 microM, respectively). The ATPase activity is sensitive to low concentrations (I50 approximately 1 microM) of vanadate, which specifically inhibits Ca(2+)-ATPase in the plasma membranes of the erythrocyte, cardiomyocytes and synapses. The calmodulin antagonist trifluoperazine reduced significantly Ca(2+)-stimulated, Mg(2+)-dependent ATP hydrolysis. The [Ca(2+)+Mg2+]-dependent ATPase in rat pineal gland exhibits very high affinity for Ca2+, is highly vanadate sensitive and appears to require calmodulin. The enzyme is similar to the Ca(2+)-ATPase of the erythrocyte, cardiomyocytes and synaptic plasma membranes. These new findings may help to elucidate the mechanisms of intracellular calcium homeostasis and the effect of the enzyme on the synthesis of melatonin in the pineal gland.

Localization of dynamin: widespread distribution in mature neurons and association with membranous organelles

Tissue distribution and intracellular localization of dynamin by immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry is investigated in this study. Dynamin was widely expressed in all the neurons we examined, and was especially abundant in the central nervous system after maturation, although its expression presented regional heterogeneity. Dynamin was present most abundantly in cerebellar Purkinje cells and hippocampal pyramidal cells, and to a lesser extent in motor neurons and peripheral nerves. However, dynamin was nearly absent in cells such as anterior pituitary cells and adrenal medullary cells which secrete mainly dense cored vesicles. Dynamin was localized not only in cell bodies, axons, and synapses but also in dendrites. Subcellular fractionation indicated that dynamin existed in the membrane fraction as well as in the soluble fraction. In ligated peripheral nerves, dynamin colocalized with tubulovesicular membranous organelles transported mainly anterogradely. By transfection of dynamin cDNA into mouse fibroblast L-cells, we showed it colocalized with some membranous organelles but not with microtubules. Our results show that dynamin is associated with membranous organelles in vivo, although a certain amount of dynamin also exists in the soluble fraction and is distributed diffusely throughout mature neurons. The data suggest that dynamin's fundamental role involves membrane trafficking in neurons in the central nervous system rather than in sliding microtubules as a motor protein.

Characterization of two Metabacterium sp. from the gut of rodents. 1. Morphology and histochemical examination of a new Metabacterium sp. from the gut of the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus)

A new giant Gram-negative non-cultivatable symbiotic endospore-forming bacterium was found in the gut of the European hamster. This "Metabacterium" sp., provisionally named "Metabacterium criceti", sp. n., has a length of approximately 20 microns and thickness of 4 microns. It forms 1 to 2 cylindrical endospores, approximately 9 microns long and 1.4 microns thick. TEM-micrographs show a cell wall structure characteristic of Gram-negative bacteria. Vegetative cells are filled with granules 0.3 micron in diameter which resemble starch granules. The reproduction occurs with binary fission and by formation of two endospores. Of thirteen biochemical components sought, four, i.e. glycogen, triacylglycerols, peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase, were not found. Starch, acid mucosubstances, DNA, RNA, lipids, proteins, adenosine triphosphatase and acid phosphatase were found in different patterns, depending on the developmental stage of the bacterium. In the vegetative cell stage all these components, with the exception of starch, were found. In the endospore-bearing cell stage, only the starch-like cell component granules could be detected. In free endospores only DNA, RNA and acid phosphatase were found. Some of the components, i.e. DNA, lipids, starch-like granules, were linked to certain cell substructures, the distribution of others, viz. polysaccharides, RNA, adenosine triphosphatase and proteins was diffuse. The lipids, found only in vegetative cells, were associated with the cell wall.

Subcellular action of estradiol-17 beta in a freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Injections with different doses (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 micrograms/g) of estradiol-17 beta (E2), administered three days consecutively, showed a statistically significant increase in mitochondrial Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, cytosolic malate dehydrogenase, and cytosolic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities in a dose-dependent manner in the hepatopancreas of the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) on the 4th day of treatment compared to the control values. A lower dose of 0.05 microgram/g was without any effect on these enzyme activities. A uniform increase in the Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was observed after injections with 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 micrograms/g of E2. Ergosterol, a nonsex steroid did not show any change in the malate dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities on which this compound was tested at a 2.0 micrograms/g dose, compared to the control values. Simultaneous injection of tamoxifen (0.5 microgram/g), an antiestrogenic compound, with E2 (2 micrograms/g) caused inhibition of the E2-induced rise in mitochondrial Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and cytosolic NADP-linked malate dehydrogenase activities. Conversely, tamoxifen (0.5 and 1.0 microgram/g) behaved as an estrogen agonist to the response (increase) of Mg(2+)-ATPase and cytosolic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities. Potentiation of the estrogen effect with tamoxifen (1.0 microgram/g) was observed in these enzyme activities when used simultaneously with E2 (2 micrograms/g). Use of cycloheximide (0.5 mg/liter), a protein synthesis blocker, inhibited the inhibited the E2 (2 micrograms/g)-induced increase in all the enzyme activities studied. The data show specific and prominent subcellular action of estrogen with an indication of its role in energy-dependent ion transport and metabolic activation in hepatopancreas of the freshwater prawn.

Studies of adenine nucleotide biochemistry in the Chediak-Higashi syndrome

The Chediak-Higashi syndrome (CHS) is an inherited disorder of humans and of several animal species, characterized by partial albinism, pseudohemophilia, increased susceptibility to disease, and large inclusions in all granule-forming cells. In this study, various parameters of adenine nucleotide biochemistry were examined in beige mouse kidney tissue and in peripheral blood leukocytes from CHS mink. There were no differences in the total protein content, total ATPase activity or the magnesium (Mg2+) ATPase or the sodium-potassium (Na(+)-K+) ATPase activities, the concentrations of ATP, ADP, and AMP, or the adenylate energy charge (AEC) in kidney extracts from beige and normal mice. In studies of leukocytes, there were no differences in the concentrations of ATP, ADP, AMP, and cAMP or the AECs in total leukocyte preparations and in extracts from granulocytes or nongranulocytes. These results can be explained by any one of several hypotheses: no storage pool of adenine nucleotides exists in the tissues examined; or the alleged storage pool is not affected by CHS; or the quantity of nucleotides in the alleged storage pool is too minute to be evaluated by current techniques; or the CHS defect might cause a shift from the storage pool to the metabolic pool.

Differences in maximal activation properties of skinned short- and long-sarcomere muscle fibres from the claw of the freshwater crustacean Cherax destructor

Single fibres of different sarcomere length at rest have been isolated from the claw muscle of the yabby (Cherax destructor), a decapod crustacean. Fibres of either long (SL > 6 microns) or short (SL < 4 microns) sarcomere length have been mechanically skinned and were maximally activated by Ca2+ and Sr2+ under various experimental conditions (ionic strength, in the presence of 2,3 butanedione monoxime (BDM)) to determine differences in their contractile properties. Isometric force was measured simultaneously with either myofibrillar MgATPase or fibre stiffness in both fibre types. The ultrastructure of individual long- and short-sarcomere fibres was also determined by electron microscopy. The long-sarcomere fibres developed greater tension (30.48 +/- 1.72 N cm-2) when maximally activated by Ca2+ compared with the short-sarcomere fibres (18.60 +/- 0.80 N cm-2). The difference in the maximum Ca(2+)-activated force can be explained by the difference in the amount of filament overlap between the two fibre types. The maximum Ca(2+)-activated myofibrillar MgATPase rate in the short-sarcomere fibres (1.60 +/- 0.27 mmol ATP l-1s-1) was higher, but not significantly different from the ATPase rate in fibres with long-sarcomeres (1.09 +/- 0.14 mmol ATP l-1s-1). As the concentration of myosin is estimated to be higher only by a factor of 1.22 in the short-sarcomere preparations there is no evidence to suggest that the myofibrillar MgATPase activity is different in the long- and short-sarcomere preparations. The maximum Ca(2+)-activated force (P0) of both short- and long-sarcomere fibres was quite insensitive to BDM compared with vertebrate muscle. Force decreased to 60.2 +/- 5.3% and 76.1 +/- 2.7% in the short- and long-sarcomere fibres respectively in the presence of 100 mmol l-1 BDM. The difference in the force depression between the long- and short-sarcomere fibres is statistically significant (p < 0.05). Fibre stiffness during maximum Ca(2+)-activation expressed as percentage maximum force per nm per half sarcomere was higher by a factor of 3.5 in short-sarcomere fibres than in long-sarcomere fibres suggesting that the compliance of the filaments in the long-sarcomere fibres is considerably higher than in the short-sarcomere fibres. Sr2+ could not activate the contractile apparatus to the same level as that seen by Ca2+ in either fibre type: the maximum Sr(2+)-activated force was (20 +/- 3%) and (63 +/- 3%) of the maximum Ca(2+)-activated force response in short- and long-sarcomere fibres, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

High-affinity calcium-stimulated, magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase in Trypanosoma cruzi

1. A high-affinity (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase and a low-affinity Mg(2+)-ATPase were identified in the 105,000 g fraction from epimastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas' disease (Tulahuen strain). 2. Activities were conserved after enzyme solubilization with deoxycholate. 3. The Ca(2+)-stimulated ATPase activity was (a) lower than that of the Mg(2+)-ATPase; (b) inhibited by p-chloromercurobenzoate and orthovanadate and (c) insensitive to oligomycin. 4. Optimal stimulation by Ca2+ was observed at pH 6.5-6.8 in the presence of 1 mM MgCl2 and 0.1 M KCl. 5. The Mg(2+)-ATPase was insensitive to p-chloromercurobenzoate and orthovanadate and did not require KCl for activity. 6. Kinetic analysis of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase yielded a half-maximal stimulating concentration of 1.1 microM for Ca2+ and a Km of 66 microM for ATP. 7. The (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase clearly differed from the Ca(2+)- or Mg(2+)-ATPases previously characterized in the same strain of T. cruzi (Frasch et al., 1978; Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 60B, 271-275).

Histochemical arguments for muscular non-shivering thermogenesis in muscovy ducklings

1. The histochemical characteristics of gastrocnemius muscle were investigated in 6-week-old cold-acclimated (5 weeks, 4 degrees C) and glucagon-treated (5 weeks, 25 degrees C, 103 nmol/kg I.P. twice daily) muscovy ducklings, two groups able to develop non-shivering thermogenesis in vivo. A comparison was made with thermoneutral controls (25 degrees C) of the same age. All animals were fed ad libitum. Fibre type, fibre area and capillary supply have been studied. Further, a quantitative histochemical method for mitochondrial Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was developed to characterize the mitochondrial coupling state in situ. 2. White gastrocnemius was composed of fast glycolytic (FG) and fast oxidative glycolytic (FOG) fibres, while red gastrocnemius contained FOG and slow oxidative (SO) fibres. In white gastrocnemius, the proportion of FG fibres was higher in glucagon-treated than in control or cold-acclimated ducklings. In red gastrocnemius, the proportion of SO fibres was higher in both cold-acclimated and glucagon-treated ducklings than in controls. The area of all fibres was generally lower in glucagon-treated than in other ducklings. 3. The capillary density was higher in both red and white components of the gastrocnemius muscle in cold-acclimated and glucagon-treated than in control ducklings, as a result of an increased number of capillaries around each fibre. 4. In all fibres, except the FG type in cold-acclimated ducklings, the staining intensity of the Mg(2+)-ATPase reaction was higher in cold-acclimated and glucagon-treated than in control ducklings whereas the staining intensity with maximal decoupling of oxidative phosphorylation by dinitrophenol was unchanged. This indicated a more loose-coupled state of mitochondria in situ in all fibres of cold-acclimated ducklings, and in FOG fibres of white gastrocnemius and SO fibres of red gastrocnemius in glucagon-treated ducklings. 5. These results indicated a higher oxidative metabolism of skeletal muscle in both cold-acclimated and glucagon-treated than in control ducklings, and for most of the parameters studied, a similarity between cold acclimation and glucagon treatment. Because of the higher loose-coupled state of muscle mitochondria in cold-acclimated and glucagon-treated than in control ducklings, the higher oxidative capacity of skeletal muscle in these ducklings could be used for heat production rather than ATP synthesis and account for muscular non-shivering thermogenesis.

[The histoenzymological diagnosis of the time of occurrence of a closed spinal cord trauma]

Time course of the activities of transport enzymes in capillary walls of human spinal cord was studied in various periods after closed injury to the cord, inflicted by hard blunt objects, with the use of histochemical methods for the detection of alkaline phosphatase and Mg-dependent ATPase. Wave-like fluctuations in the activities of the examined enzymes were revealed. The findings may be used to assess the period elapsed since the cord injury.

[The distribution and properties of the Mg2(+)-ATPase in the membranes of functionally different muscles in the hen]

From striated (m. pectoralis and myocardium) and smooth (myometrium) muscle tissues of hen, by means of differential centrifugation with Ca-oxalate loading, membrane preparations were obtained with high activity of Mg(2+)-ATPase, i.e. a marker enzyme of tubular membranes of T-system of skeletal muscles. Some properties (pH and temperature optima) of this enzyme were investigated and compared to those of Ca(2+)-ATPase from membranes of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. It was shown that in all the investigated muscles, Mg(2+)-ATPase is associated with membrane fraction which in its density corresponds to tubular membranes of T-system. Activation of this enzyme is characterized by similar optimal levels of pH (7.2) and temperature (25 degrees C). The activity of Ca(2+)-ATPase in the membranes of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, in contrast to that of Mg(2+)-ATPase, is observed in more narrow bands of pH and temperature, exhibiting tissue specificity. The data obtained, indicating a possibility of chromatographic separation of these enzymes, confirm their biochemical individuality.

Ultrastructural and cytochemical analysis of Na+, K+, ATPase and H+, K+, ATPase in parietal cells of gastric mucosa in the rabbit

Rabbit gastric secretion has the physiological peculiarity of being continuous and uninfluenced by food intake. In this respect, ultrastructural analysis of rabbit parietal cells has revealed morphofunctional features situated between states of rest and very active acid secretion. Our cytochemical study shows that Mg2+ ATPase and ADPase activities vary from cell to cell and can even be totally absent. These activities concern either microcanaliculi or laterobasal folds or both, but never tubulovesicles. Application of the technique of Mayahara to K+ pNPP, associated or not with inhibitors (ouabain, vanadate, N-ethyl-maleimide, sodium fluoride), enabled us to confirm the coexistence of H+, K+, ATPase and Na+, K+, ATPase activities in the rabbit and to determine that these activities concern basolateral folds, microcanaliculi, hyaloplasm and tubulovesicles. The global activity of K+, pNPPase varied considerably in intensity. The results of using inhibitors suggest that proton transport ceases completely in certain cells. The signs of functional alternation found in this study are in agreement with physiological data relative to this animal.

Effect of diabetes mellitus on epididymal enzymes of adult rats

Diabetes mellitus caused significant reduction in serum testosterone and accessory sex glands weight. The sperm content of epididymal regions also decreased. Among the epididymal regions, the cauda epididymidal tissue alone showed significant reduction in Na(+)-K+ ATPase activity. However, Mg2+ ATPase activity was lowered in caput epididymidis only. Specific activity of Ca2+ ATPase significantly decreased in caput and cauda epididymides. All three ATPases decreased significantly in caput epididymidal spermatozoa leaving cauda epididymidal spermatozoa unaffected. Specific activity of alkaline phosphatase was suppressed in caput epididymidis and in the spermatozoa collected from caput and cauda epididymides, while the acid phosphatase was unaffected. In general, the results are suggestive of definite influence of diabetes on epididymal phosphatases which is region specific. Diabetes induced decrease in phosphatases may have an impact on secretory and absorptive functions of epididymis and thus on sperm maturation.

Effects of chronic manganese treatment on rat brain regional sodium-potassium-activated and magnesium-activated adenosine triphosphatase activities during development

The effects of chronic manganese (Mn) treatments (1 and 10 mg MnCl2.4H2O per ml of drinking water) from conception onwards on brain regional development of sodium-potassium-activated and magnesium-activated adenosine triphosphatases (Na-K-ATPase and Mg-ATPase) were studied. The activities of these enzymes were determined in hypothalamus, cerebellum, pons and medulla, striatum, midbrain and cerebral cortex (which included the hippocampus) of Mn-treated and age-matched control rats at 5 postnatal ages. Both ATPase activities doubled in most brain regions between day 5 and day 20 postnatal. In pons and medulla, striatum, midbrain, and cerebral cortex, adult levels of both enzymatic activities were attained by day 20 postnatal. Na-K-ATPase activities transiently increased in the midbrain (+25%) at day 12 with the lower Mn dose and in the cerebral cortex (+31%) at day 20 with the higher Mn dose. With the higher Mn dose only, Mg-ATPase activities were increased in the hypothalamus (+20%) at day 12 and in the pons and medulla (+22%) at day 20 but were decreased in the pons and medulla (-20%) at day 60. Thus, only transient changes in enzymatic activities were observed despite dose-dependent increases in the brain levels of Mn resulting from the Mn treatment. A hypothesis regarding the role of early but transient changes in brain metabolism in the pathogenesis of the initial psychotic symptoms in Mn intoxication was proposed and discussed in relation to several other observations of a similar nature.

[HPLC method for measuring (Na(+)-K(+)) ATPase and (Ca(++)-Mg(++)) ATPase in erythrocytes from different species of mammals]

(Na(+)-K+)ATPase and (Ca(++)-Mg++)ATPase are enzymes located in erythrocyte plasma membranes, driving back ions against the electrochemical gradient; (Na(+)-K+)ATPase transports 3 Na+ ions out of the cell, and 2 K+ ions into it for each hydrolyzed ATP molecule, whereas the Ca(2+)-pump transports Ca2+ ions out of the cells, by utilizing still the ATP hydrolysis. The method used to test the activity of the above mentioned enzymes is based on the measuring of the ADP quantity released during the reaction by HPLC, that is High Performance Liquid Chromatography; the chromatographic type is a Ion-Pair Reversed-Phase. This method presents the following important advantages for the assay of the enzymes we analysed: 1) It is reproducible through time; 2) It is perfectly linear; 3) It is extremely sensitive. This method allowed us to carry out a comparative study of (Na(+)-K+)ATPase and (Ca(++)-Mg++)ATPase in erythrocyte plasma membranes of several species of mammalia: man, horse, rabbit, lamb, rat. We recovered different values in ATPase activity; (Ca(++)-Mg++)ATPase shows a higher activity than Na(+)-K+)ATPase; moreover, some differences exist in the various Mammalia considered, with relation to each pump: the lamb shows the lowest activity for both pumps, whereas the rabbit shows the highest one. At present, the different values obtained are being interpreted and analysed. This method is also very versatile, since it allowed us to assess the Km value for Ca++ of the (Ca(++)-Mg++)ATPase in erythrocyte plasma membranes of rabbit. The value resulted to be 100 microMs, thus 10 times higher than the human Km value for the Ca++.

Simultaneous investigation of the rat serum and liver response in an acute toxic substances exposure

Some biochemical parameters were simultaneously investigated in serum and hepatic homogenate in acute experiment with three pesticides in rat. The one-dose exposure response was relatively well correlated with the chemical toxicity and showed the statistically significant values, preferentially placed 48 hours after dosing. The liver morphological alteration might be associated with the serum and tissue comportment of the bioenzymological factors. The various genotoxicity induced by the three pesticides, appreciated by the frequency of micronucleus induction in the bone marrow cells, completes the data about the one-dose exposure effects of the chemical in rat.

Alkaline phosphatase, 5'-nucleotidase and magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase activities in the transitional epithelium of the rat urinary bladder

The cerium-based method was used to demonstrate cytochemically the ultrastructural localization of alkaline phosphatase (ALPase), 5'-nucleotidase (5'-Nase) and magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase (Mg-ATPase) on the transitional epithelium of the rat urinary bladder. The reaction product for ALPase was found on the plasma membrane of all epithelial cells, except the luminal surface of superficial cells. The activity of 5'-Nase appeared on the plasma membrane of all bladder transitional epithelial cells, including the free surface of superficial cells. The Mg-ATPase reaction product was seen on the plasma membrane of superficial, intermediate and basal cells, but never on the luminal surface of superficial cells and it was only occasionally seen on the basal surface. The possible functions of these phosphatases have been discussed, and it was emphasized that the 5'-Nase activity present on the luminal surface of superficial cells may play a special role in the membrane movement of these cells in the transitional epithelium.

Cytochemical localization of enzyme markers in Tritrichomonas foetus

Cytochemical techniques associated with transmission electron microscopy were used for the localization in Tritrichomonas foetus of enzymes used as markers of different cell structures. Reaction product indicating the presence of Mg(2+)-adenosine triphosphatase (Mg(2+)-ATPase) and 5'-nucleotidase was observed in the plasma membrane. Glucose-6-phosphatase was seen in association with the endoplasmic reticulum, revealing its organization as parallel cisternae. Thiamino-pyrophosphatase was located in the cis-most region of the Golgi complex. Acid phosphatase was found within lysosomes as well as in several cisternae of the Golgi complex, in contrast to previous observations in mammalian cells. These observations provide support for the use of enzyme markers in future studies on cell fractionation of T. foetus.

Ontogeny of reticular cells in the ileal Peyer's patch of sheep and goats

The ontogeny of reticular cells in the ileal Peyer's patch of sheep from 70 days gestational age was studied by light and electron microscopy and by enzyme histochemistry. Small to medium-sized lymphocytes were seen in the lamina propria at 97 days, when the stroma was essentially still mesenchymal. By 110 days, the stromal cells in the dome/follicle primordia had differentiated into reticular fibroblasts, whose processes and fibers were seen to surround groups of lymphocytes. With advancing age the number and size of primordia increased, and proliferation was obvious among the lymphocytes. Processes of reticular cells increased in number and penetrated between individual lymphocytes of the groups. Coarser desmosome-like contacts were seen between the reticular cells from 115 days onwards. A central light area in the follicle was apparent from 130 days onwards. The fine structure of the stromal cells in this light follicle center developed towards but never became similar to that of follicular dendritic cells in a typical germinal center. The fine interdigitating end branches of the stromal cells were less numerous, and the dense homogeneous material present in between the end branches was not observed in the ileal Peyer's patch follicle. Instead, small particles and vesicles were seen between the various cell types of the light center and were not restricted to the intercellular spaces between the stromal cells. In the dark peripheral zone of the follicle, the stromal cells retained more immature features. The follicle became bordered by a capsule at an early stage. This capsule was formed by multiple layers of flattened fibroblasts separated by small amounts of intercellular material only. The alkaline phosphatase, Mg(2+)-dependent adenosine triphosphatase and 5' nucleotidase reactivities of the follicular dendritic cells in the ileal Peyer's patch were similar to those of early prenatal primary follicles of sheep lymph nodes. This study indicates that the stromal cells of the ileal Peyer's patch are mesenchymal in nature and different from those of germinal centers and the epithelial stromal cells of bursa Fabricii of birds.

Effect of histamine H2-receptor antagonist, ranitidine on renal brush border and basolateral membranes

The antiulcerogenic drug ranitidine, given orally to mice, brought about reductions of kidney-bound hydrolytic enzymes at three different dose levels, viz. 10 mg, 100 mg, and 1000 mg/kg body weight, and for three different time points (single administration for 2 h and 24 h, and daily administration for 15 days). The activities of Na+, K(+)-ATPase, Ca2(+)-ATPase, and Mg2(+)-ATPase (marker enzymes of basolateral membranes) were reduced, and these reductions were significant at higher doses and after a 24-h single treatment or 15 days' daily treatment. Maltase, alkaline phosphatase, and leucine aminopeptidase (marker enzymes of brush border membrane [BBM]) activities were significantly inhibited after ranitidine treatment. Kinetic analysis of BBM-associated enzymes indicated that ranitidine decreased the maximum of apparent initial enzyme velocity (Vmax) of maltase, alkaline phosphatase, and leucine aminopeptidase. The substrate affinity constant (Km) was decreased in the case of alkaline phosphatase and maltase, while it was not altered in the case of leucine aminopeptidase. In vitro addition of ranitidine to renal BBM also produced significant inhibition of these enzymes, the inhibition constants (Ki) for maltase, alkaline phosphatase, and leucine aminopeptidase being 7.5, 15.5, and 3.5 mM, respectively. Membrane-bound lipid estimation showed a significant increase in phospholipids, triglycerides, and free fatty acids. Cholesterol, however, was decreased in both renal basolateral and brush border membranes.