Thermodynamic properties in the approach to the quantum critical point of the spin-ladder material Na2Co2(C2O4)3(H2O)2

Magnetic susceptibility and heat capacity measurements as a function of temperature on a single-crystal sample of a spin-ladder material, Na2Co2(C2O4)3(H2O)2, are reported. Principal susceptibilities, parallel and perpendicular to the ladder direction, respectively, show broad maxima around 22 and 17 K. Both susceptibilities decay exponentially down to about 5 K and thereafter they are essentially independent of temperature. These findings amount to a signature of a quantum phase transition from a spin-liquid to Néel ordered state previously predicted theoretically. No anomaly is found in the heat capacity around the transition temperature.

Zeeman levels with exotic field dependence in the high field phase of an S=1 Heisenberg antiferromagnetic chain

We have performed electron spin resonance measurements over a wide frequency and magnetic field range on a single crystal of the S=1 quasi-one-dimensional Heisenberg antiferromagnet Ni(C5H14N2)2N3(PF6). We observed gapped excitation branches above the critical field H(c) where the Haldane gap closes. These branches are analyzed by a phenomenological field theory using the complex-field phi(4) model. A satisfactory agreement between experiment and theory is obtained.

Quasielastic neutron scattering in the high-field phase of a Haldane antiferromagnet

Inelastic neutron scattering experiments on the Haldane-gap quantum antiferromagnet Ni(C5D14N2)2-N3(PF6) are performed in magnetic fields below and above the critical field H(c) at which the gap closes. Quasielastic neutron scattering is found for H>H(c), indicating topological excitations in the high-field phase.

Field-induced three- and two-dimensional freezing in a quantum spin liquid

Field-induced commensurate transverse magnetic ordering is observed in the Haldane-gap compound Ni(C(5)D(14)N(2))2N(3)(PF(6)) by means of neutron diffraction. Depending on the direction of applied field, the high-field phase is shown to be either a three-dimensional ordered Néel state or a short-range ordered state with dominant two-dimensional spin correlations. The structure of the high-field phase is determined, and properties of the observed quantum phase transition are discussed.

Overexpression of the glycogen targeting (G(M)) subunit of protein phosphatase-1

The G(M) glycogen-targeting subunit of protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) is believed to be involved in dephosphorylation of the enzymes of glycogen metabolism. To assess the roles of G(M) on glycogen metabolism, we created site-directed G(M) mutants and overexpressed them in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing human insulin receptor. Overexpressed G(M) recruited glycogen synthase as well as PP1 to the glycogen pellet, and upregulated basal glycogen synthase activity. Overexpressed G(M)-67A (Ser-67 replaced with alanine) exhibited decreased sensitivity to suppression of glycogen synthase activity by forskolin, while overexpression of G(M)-48A (Ser-48 replaced with alanine) preserved glycogen synthase activation in response to insulin. These observations indicate that in CHO cells overexpressing G(M); (1) G(M) translocates glycogen synthase to the glycogen pellet and affected basal glycogen synthase, (2) Ser-67 might be involved in the suppression of glycogen synthase activity by glycogenolytic agents, and (3) Ser-48 might not commit to activation of glycogen synthase by insulin.

Differential involvement of Src family kinases in Fc gamma receptor-mediated phagocytosis

The tyrosine phosphorylation cascade originated from Fc gamma receptors (Fc gamma Rs) is essential for macrophage functions including phagocytosis. Although the initial step is ascribed to Src family tyrosine kinases, the role of individual kinases in phagocytosis signaling is still to be determined. In reconstitution experiments, we first showed that expression in the RAW 264.7 cell line of C-terminal Src kinase (Csk) inhibited and that of a membrane-anchored, gain-of-function Csk abolished the Fc gamma R-mediated signaling that leads to phagocytosis in a kinase-dependent manner. We next tested reconstruction of the signaling in the membrane-anchored, gain-of-function Csk-expressing cells by introducing Src family kinases the C-terminal negative regulatory sequence of which was replaced with a c-myc epitope. Those constructs derived from Lyn and Hck (a-Lyn and a-Hck) that associated with detergent-resistant membranes successfully reconstructed Fc gamma R-mediated Syk activation, filamentous actin rearrangement, and phagocytosis. In contrast, c-Src-derived construct (a-Src), that was excluded from detergent-resistant membranes, could not restore the series of phagocytosis signaling. Tyrosine phosphorylation of Vav and c-Cbl was restored in common by a-Lyn, a-Hck, and a-Src, but Fc gamma RIIB tyrosine phosphorylation, which is implicated in negative signaling, was reconstituted solely by a-Lyn and a-Hck. These findings suggest that Src family kinases are differentially involved in Fc gamma R-signaling and that selective kinases including Lyn and Hck are able to fully transduce phagocytotic signaling.

Essential roles of Lyn in fibronectin-mediated filamentous actin assembly and cell motility in mast cells

Although the requirement for c-Src in extracellular matrix (ECM)-mediated fibroblast motility has been well established, the roles of hemopoietic Src family protein tyrosine kinases in leukocyte migration have not been fully elucidated. To address the issue, we analyzed fibronectin (Fn)-mediated adhesion signaling in rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) 2H3 cells overexpressing 1) Csk, 2) a membrane-anchored, gain-of-function Csk (mCsk), and 3) a kinase-defective mCsk (mCsk(-)). Parent RBL2H3 cells, expressing autoactivated c-kit, readily adhered to Fn-coated surface, developed typical leukocyte adhesion machinery (podosome), and migrated toward Fn without cytokine priming, thus provided a simple experimental system to analyze Fn-mediated outside-in signaling. While overexpression of Csk or the Csk mutants did not significantly affect cell adhesion to the Fn surface or alpha5 integrin recruitment to the attachment sites, Csk suppressed and mCsk almost abolished Fn-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of paxillin, filamentous actin assembly to podosomes, and cell migration, but mCsk(-) did not. Coexpression of LynA devoid of C-terminal negative regulatory tyrosine in mCsk cells successfully restored Fn-mediated podosome formation and cell migration. Coexpression of c-Src lacking the C-terminal tyrosine reconstructed podosomes, but could not restore the cell migration regardless of its expression level. Collectively, these observations provide evidence that Src family protein tyrosine kinases are required, and that Lyn could transmit sufficient signal for Fn-mediated cytoskeletal changes leading to cell locomotion in RBL2H3 cells, and they suggest that Lyn and c-Src are differentially involved in cell motility.

Cardiovascular anomaly, impaired actin bundling and resistance to Src-induced transformation in mice lacking p130Cas

p130Cas (Cas), the protein encoded by the Crkas gene (also known as Cas), is an adaptor molecule with a unique structure that contains a Src homology (SH)-3 domain followed by multiple YXXP motifs and a proline-rich region. Cas was originally cloned as a highly tyrosine-phosphorylated protein in cells transformed by v-Src (refs 2,3) or v-Crk (ref. 4) and has subsequently been implicated in a variety of biological processes including cell adhesion, cell migration, growth factor stimulation, cytokine receptor engagement and bacterial infection. To determine its role in vivo, we generated mice lacking Cas. Cas-deficient embryos died in utero showing marked systemic congestion and growth retardation. Histologically, the heart was poorly developed and blood vessels were prominently dilated. Electron microscopic analysis of the heart revealed disorganization of myofibrils and disruption of Z-disks. In addition, actin stress fiber formation was severely impaired in Cas-deficient primary fibroblasts. Moreover, expression of activated Src in Cas-deficient primary fibroblasts did not induce a fully transformed phenotype, possibly owing to insufficient accumulation of actin cytoskeleton in podosomes. These findings have defined Cas function in cardiovascular development, actin filament assembly and Src-induced transformation.

Mutant of insulin receptor substrate-1 incapable of activating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase did not mediate insulin-stimulated maturation of Xenopus laevis oocytes

Insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) is rapidly phosphorylated on multiple tyrosine residues in response to insulin and binds several Src homology 2 domain-containing proteins, thereby initiating downstream signaling. To assess the tyrosine phosphorylation sites that mediate relevant downstream signaling and biological effects, we created site-directed mutants of IRS-1 and overexpressed them in the Xenopus laevis oocyte. In oocytes overexpressing IRS-1 or IRS-1-895F (Tyr-895 replaced with phenylalanine), insulin activated phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase, p70 S6 kinase, and mitogen-activated protein kinase and induced oocyte maturation. In contrast, in oocytes overexpressing IRS-1-4F (Tyr-460, Tyr-608, Tyr-939, and Tyr-987 of IRS-1 replaced with phenylalanine), insulin did not activate PI 3-kinase, p70 S6 kinase, and mitogen-activated protein kinase and failed to induce oocyte maturation. These observations indicate that in X. laevis oocytes overexpressing IRS-1, the association of PI 3-kinase rather than Grb2 (growth factor-bound protein 2) with IRS-1 plays a major role in insulin-induced oocyte maturation. Activation of PI 3-kinase may lie upstream of mitogen-activated protein kinase activation and p70 S6 kinase activation in response to insulin.

Micro-trap phosphorylation assay of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases to detect their activation by lipopolysaccharides

We designed a microplate-based assay method for mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. Using anion-exchanger resin, MAP kinases from murine macrophages were partially purified in 96-well plates. The activities of these purified enzymes correlated well with those detected in heretofore used assays. The micro-trap phosphorylation assay has advantages over conventional methods (immunoprecipitation, Western blotting for the detection of mobility shift, or kinase detection assay in myelin basic protein (MBP)-containing gel), in terms of sensitivity, economy and rapid execution for hundreds of samples. Using micro-trap phosphorylation assay, it was demonstrated that MAP kinase activities in macrophages were persistently increased by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, and this activation was inhibited by polymyxin B or tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This method is expected to give a wide range of application, such as determining effects of drug inhibitors or antisense oligonucleotides on MAP kinases, or measuring the various protein kinases after specificity controls were done.

Amino-acid sequence and tissue distribution of guinea-pig leukotriene A4 hydrolase

The guinea-pig leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H)-encoding cDNA was isolated from a guinea-pig lung cDNA library by cross-hybridization using a human probe. The deduced amino acid (aa) sequence consists of 611 aa (68 756 Da) and contains all twelve internal peptide and N-terminal sequences determined from the purified enzyme from guinea-pig intestine. The aa identity of the guinea-pig enzyme with its human, mouse and rat counterparts was 92.9, 90.5 and 90.4%, respectively. The previously characterized zinc-binding motif and a putative active site were highly conserved, supporting the aminopeptidase activity described for this enzyme. RNA blot analysis demonstrated ubiquitous expression of the LTA4H mRNA.

Prostaglandin F2 alpha stimulates formation of p21ras-GTP complex and mitogen-activated protein kinase in NIH-3T3 cells via Gq-protein-coupled pathway

Prostaglandin (PG) F2 alpha activated mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and MAP kinase kinase in NIH-3T3 cells by a mechanism that was completely inhibited by protein kinase inhibitors, staurosporine (20 nM) or H-7 (20 microM), but was insensitive to pretreatment with islet-activating protein (100 ng/ml; 24 h) or 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (2.5 microM; 24 h). PGF2 alpha stimulation also led to a significant increase in Ras.GTP complex. Transfection of a cDNA encoding a constitutively active mutant of Gq alpha-subunit (Q209L) mimicked PGF2 alpha-induced MAP kinase activation, increase in Ras.GTP complex, and DNA synthesis in these cells, suggesting that activation of Gq mediates the PGF2 alpha-activation of Ras-MAP kinase pathway and mitogenesis in NIH-3T3 cells. These data provide a new insight into regulatory mechanisms of Ras-MAP kinase pathway through heterotrimeric G-protein-mediated pathways.

Gq pathway desensitizes chemotactic receptor-induced calcium signaling via inositol trisphosphate receptor down-regulation

Desensitization of a chemotactic receptor is an adaptive process that terminates inflammation. Although homologous desensitization can be well explained by the action of specific receptor kinases, the mechanisms of heterologous desensitization remain elusive. As an approach to evaluate the roles of Gq pathway in desensitization of calcium signaling, we expressed a constitutively active Gq alpha mutant (Gq alpha Q-L) together with platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Gq alpha Q-L expression completely attenuated the calcium-sensitive chloride current and the 45Ca release elicited by PAF. The Gq-mediated desensitization could not be ascribed to G protein/receptor uncoupling via receptor phosphorylation, because (i) PAF-induced inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) synthesis was only partially suppressed and (ii) a mutated PAF receptor devoid of all Ser and Thr in the third cytoplasmic loop and in the C-terminal tail was also completely desensitized by Gq alpha Q-L. In Gq alpha Q-L expressing oocytes, microinjection of IP3 failed to elicit the calcium response, and the IP3 receptor, detected by a specific antibody, disappeared. Thus, the Gq-mediated desensitization can be most likely explained by IP3 receptor down-regulation. These novel mechanisms may explain in part heterologous desensitization in chemotactic factor-stimulated inflammatory cells.

Activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and arachidonate release via two G protein-coupled receptors expressed in the rat hippocampus

Platelet-activating factor and somatostatin receptors, two G protein-coupled receptors expressed in the rat hippocampus, were analyzed for the downstream signaling pathways in Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing each receptor. Ligand stimulation to each CHO cell line induced (1) inhibition of forskolin-induced accumulation of cAMP, (2) arachidonate release, and (3) activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase and MAP kinase kinase. In contrast, inositol phosphate breakdown was seen only in the PAF-stimulated CHO cells. The induction of these signals accompanied no detectable Ras activation. Suppression of the signals by pertussis toxin was almost complete for the somatostatin receptor but partial for the PAF receptor, suggesting that the somatostatin receptor couples only with PTX-sensitive G protein, while the PAF receptor couples with both PTX-sensitive and -insensitive G proteins. A model of G protein-mediated signaling pathways was proposed in which the signals from Gi and those from Gq converge at MAP kinase kinase and lead to arachidonate release. The present system using CHO cells is useful for analyzing signaling pathways from G proteins to MAP kinase kinase and will thereby provide clues for understanding the mechanisms underlying the physiological and pathological events mediated by PAF, somatostatin, and other G protein-coupled receptors in the central nervous system and other tissues.

Role of cytoplasmic tail phosphorylation sites of platelet-activating factor receptor in agonist-induced desensitization

The platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor couples with multiple signaling pathways such as activation of phospholipase C, phospholipase A2, and mitogen-activated protein kinase and the inhibition of adenylate cyclase. The PAF-induced signals are attenuated by repetitive or long standing applications of the agonist (homologous desensitization). To investigate mechanisms underlying the agonist-induced desensitization, we constructed mutant forms of the cloned guinea pig PAF receptor and stably expressed them in Chinese hamster ovary cells. The cells expressing the wild type receptor transiently activated phospholipase C in response to PAF. Intracellular inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate level and intracellular Ca2+ concentration reached the maximal levels within 20 s and returned to the basal levels in several minutes, even in the continuous presence of the ligand. In contrast, a truncated PAF receptor lacking the carboxyl-terminal cytoplasmic tail induced sustained elevations of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. Similar findings were noted in another mutant, in which the Ser/Thr residues in the carboxyl-terminal tail were substituted with Ala. Both mutant PAF receptors more potently activated the other signals (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase, arachidonate release, and inhibition of adenylate cyclase) than did the wild type receptor. Thus, while the carboxyl-terminal cytoplasmic tail of the PAF receptor is not required for the forward activation of multiple signals, it does have a critical role for signal attenuation induced by the agonist through phosphate accepters. We also noted that the synthetic peptide of the PAF receptor carboxyl-terminal tail was strongly phosphorylated by the recombinant beta-adrenergic receptor kinase 1, suggesting that it or its relatives might be involved in PAF receptor phosphorylation and homologous desensitization.

Functional coupling of SSTR4, a major hippocampal somatostatin receptor, to adenylate cyclase inhibition, arachidonate release and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade

Somatostatin has a modulatory role in regulating the membrane conductance in hippocampal neurons. To examine the signal transducing molecules involved in this process, we isolated the cDNA encoding the dominant rat hippocampal somatostatin receptor, SSTR4. Distribution of SSTR4 in the adult central nervous system was restricted to the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, striatum, hypothalamus, and thalamus, as determined by Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization. In SSTR4-expressing Chinese hamster ovary cells, SSTR4 was functionally coupled not only to inhibition of adenylate cyclase, but also to activation of both arachidonate release and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade, with similar ED50 values. All of these pathways, including both MAP kinase kinase and MAP kinase activation, were completely blocked by pretreatment with pertussis toxin. On the other hand, neither inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate synthesis nor intracellular Ca2+ mobilization was induced upon SSTR4 stimulation. These data indicate that the hippocampal functions of somatostatin might be mediated through diverse but selective second messenger systems activated via SSTR4 and reveal an unsuspected coupling of a neuronal SSTR subtype to a mitogenic signaling pathway. SSTR4, in addition, provides a useful system to study the Ca(2+)-independent, Gi-dependent (pertussis toxin-sensitive) pathway of MAP kinase activation.

Cloning, expression and tissue distribution of rat platelet-activating-factor-receptor cDNA

The biological functions of platelet-activating factor (PAF) have been extensively studied in the rat. However, the precise structure and distribution of rat PAF receptor has not been reported. To address this question, we isolated a rat PAF-receptor cDNA from a size-fractionated rat spleen cDNA library. The deduced amino acid sequence of the rat PAF receptor showed 80% and 79% identity with guinea pig and human PAF receptors, respectively. Pharmacological properties (ED50, inhibition by WEB2086) of rat PAF receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes were similar to those for PAF receptors expressed from guinea pig or human cDNAs. Northern blot analysis showed a widespread distribution of PAF-receptor mRNA in almost all organs including spleen, small intestine, kidney, lung, liver and brain. Considerable difference in the PAF-receptor distribution detected among species suggests the existence of a species-specific and tissue-specific regulatory mechanism for PAF-receptor-mRNA expression. Isolation of rat PAF-receptor cDNA should facilitate further analysis of PAF-receptor function and pharmacology in diverse pathophysiological processes.

Transfected platelet-activating factor receptor activates mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and MAP kinase kinase in Chinese hamster ovary cells

The platelet-activating factor (PAF) was seen to potently activate mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and MAP kinase kinase through the cloned guinea pig PAF receptor stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Both 42- and 44-kDa MAP kinases were activated and tyrosine-phosphorylated in response to PAF. The PAF receptor also triggered the production of inositol phosphates and the release of arachidonic acid and inhibited cyclic AMP accumulation. Differential inhibitory effects of pertussis toxin (PTX) on these signals suggested that the PAF receptor couples to both PTX-sensitive and -insensitive G proteins in CHO cells. MAP kinase and MAP kinase activations were partially regulated by PTX-sensitive G proteins. The PAF receptor did not trigger any detectable increase in the GTP form of Ras under the conditions in which the human insulin receptor expressed in the same parent CHO cells potently increased the level. Since these agonists induced comparable MAP kinase activations through cognate receptors, Ras seems to play different roles in MAP kinase activation by the two different classes of receptors. The activation of MAP kinase by the cloned PAF receptor may explain part of the mechanisms underlying PAF-induced differentiation and proliferation in non-inflammatory cells.

Two distinct signal transduction pathways for the activation of guinea-pig macrophages and neutrophils by endotoxin

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) is a major component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. Although it interacts with many types of cells and is linked to numerous events associated with sepsis and endotoxic shock, the mechanisms underlying these actions are poorly understood. We found that Ca-signaling induced by endotoxin in guinea-pig neutrophils and macrophages is caused by cross-recognition of LPS with platelet activating factor (PAF) receptors. However, the synthesis of tumor necrosis factor-alpha or the priming effect of O2- production was not affected by PAF antagonists. Thus, at least two distinct pathways are involved in the actions of LPS, one via the PAF receptor, while the other is independent of a PAF receptor and Ca-signaling.

Two different promoters direct expression of two distinct forms of mRNAs of human platelet-activating factor receptor

The human platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor gene exists as a single copy on chromosome 1. We identified two 5'-noncoding exons, each of which has distinct transcriptional initiation sites. These exons are alternatively spliced to a common splice acceptor site on a third exon that contains the total open reading frame to yield two different species of functional mRNA (Transcript 1 and 2). Transcript 1 has consensus sequences for transcription factor NF-kappa B and Sp-1, and the Initiator (Inr) sequence homologous to the murine terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase gene. Transcript 2 also contains consensus sequences for transcription factor AP-1, AP-2, and Sp-1. Transcripts 1 and 2 were both detected in heart, lung, spleen, and kidney, whereas only Transcript 1 was found in peripheral leukocytes, a differentiated human eosinophilic cell line (EoL-1 cells), and brain. Existence of distinct promoters was thus suggested to play a role in the regulatory control of PAF receptor gene expression in different human tissues and cells.

Characterization of prostaglandin F2 alpha receptor of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts and its functional expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes

Prostaglandin (PG) F2 alpha increased [3H]thymidine incorporation into quiescent NIH 3T3 cells, stimulated phosphoinositide breakdown, and raised intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in a dose-dependent manner with ED50 values of 2.0 x 10(-8) M, 4.6 x 10(-8) M, and 7.5 x 10(-8) M, respectively. The increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation with PGF2 alpha was additive with that seen with epidermal growth factor (EGF) or insulin. The peak [Ca2+]i increase with PGF2 alpha was still obvious in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ and was insensitive to islet activating protein (IAP) pretreatment. Membranes prepared from NIH 3T3 cells exhibited a specific binding for PGF2 alpha, which was sensitive to GTP gamma S but not sensitive to IAP pretreatment. Xenopus laevis oocytes injected with NIH 3T3 cell mRNA between 18S and 28S rRNA fractionated by sucrose gradient, expressed a PGF2 alpha-specific Cl- current when examined by voltage clamp. This Cl- current was also insensitive to IAP pretreatment and not affected by extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]o). These results indicate 1) that the NIH 3T3 cells expressed a specific PGF2 alpha receptor which is linked to phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) activation and to mobilization of Ca2+ via an IAP-insensitive G-protein(s), 2) that this PGF2 alpha receptor may play an active role in the proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells, and 3) that this PGF2 alpha receptor can be expressed in the oocyte system.

Isolation and properties of platelet-activating factor receptor cDNAs

The cDNA encoding the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor was cloned from a guinea pig lung cDNA library by using a Xenopus laevis oocyte expression system. The human PAF receptor cDNA was isolated from a human leukocyte cDNA library using a 0.8-kbp fragment of the guinea pig PAF receptor cDNA as a probe. Both receptors have the same number of amino acids (342 residues) with seven putative transmembrane spanning domains, and belong to the G-protein-linked receptor superfamily. Overall amino acid identity between the two receptors was 83%:91% in the transmembrane domains. Seven threonine and three serine residues conserved in the cytoplasmic loops of both receptors may function as phosphate acceptors, as related to the homologous desensitization of the receptor. Activation of the PAF receptor yielded inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production in the PAF receptor expressed COS-7 cells and oocytes, and guanosine 5'-O-(2-thio)bisphosphate injected into the oocytes inhibited PAF-induced Cl- current, providing evidence that PAF stimulates phosphoinositide turnover via G-protein(s).

Three types of Gi alpha protein of the guinea-pig lung: cDNA cloning and analysis of their tissue distribution

cDNA clones encoding three types of Gi alpha, the alpha subunit of GTP-binding protein (Gi1 alpha, Gi2 alpha, and Gi3 alpha), were isolated from a cDNA library of the guinea-pig lung. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed a high degree of homology with other mammalian Gi alpha cDNAs. By RNA blot analysis, the expression pattern of Gi1 alpha was more tissue-specific than those of other types of Gi alphas in the guinea-pig tissues examined. While Gi2 alpha and Gi3 alpha mRNAs were ubiquitously expressed in all tissues examined, Gi1 alpha mRNA was mainly expressed in the brain, lung and kidney. These results suggest that each Gi alpha protein may have a different role.

Endotoxin transduces Ca2+ signaling via platelet-activating factor receptor

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a pathogenic substance causing severe multiple organ failures and high mortality. Although several LPS binding proteins have been identified, the molecular mechanism underlying the LPS signaling pathway still remains obscure. We have found that the LPS-induced Ca2+ increase in platelets and platelet aggregation is blocked by selective platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonists, thus suggesting a cross-talk between LPS and the PAF receptor. Next, we confirmed this hypothesis using the cloned PAF receptors [(1991) Nature 349, 342-346; (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 20400-20405] expressed in Xenopus oocytes and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. In both systems, cells responded to LPS only when PAF receptors were expressed, and specific PAF binding was successfully displaced and reversibly dissociated by LPS. PAF receptor activation by LPS may represent a novel important pathway in the pathogenesis of circulatory collapse and systemic thrombosis caused by endotoxin.

Expression of platelet activating factor receptor in renal tubular cell line (LLC-PK1)

Northern blot analyses of poly(A)+ RNA extracted from cloned renal tubule cells, LLC-PK1, MDCK and JTC-12 cells, were performed using an isolated cDNA of guinea pig platelet activating factor (PAF) receptor as a probe. The results showed the expression of single entity of PAF receptor mRNA in LLC-PK1, but not in MDCK or JTC-12 cells. PAF also induced a dose-dependent elevation of intracellular calcium in LLC-PK1 cells as assessed by Fura-2 fluorescence signals, which was completely blocked by a PAF receptor antagonist, WEB 2170. These results indicate a PAF receptor-effector system in a renal tubular cell line LLC-PK1, providing a possible model system for studying physiological roles of PAF receptors in renal tubules.

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor in rat brain: PAF mobilizes intracellular Ca2+ in hippocampal neurons

Platelet-activating factor (PAF), an alkylether phospholipid, is produced in the brain when it is subjected to various stimuli. Using a Xenopus oocyte expression system, we obtained evidence for functional PAF receptor mRNA expression in rat brain. The presence of the PAF receptor was confirmed and shown to be quite ubiquitous in the CNS by RNA blot and radioligand binding studies. To investigate the neuronal functions of PAF, intracellular Ca2+ increase elicited by nanomolar PAF application was analyzed in cultured rat hippocampal cells. Fractions of NMDA-responsive cells and non-NMDA-responsive cells were shown to respond to PAF, suggesting a potential role for PAF in the Ca2+ signaling pathway in the hippocampus.

Properties of the guinea-pig lung platelet-activating factor receptor encoded by the cloned cDNA

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a naturally occurring phospholipid possessing proinflammatory and shock-inducing activities. Although PAF exerts these functions via specific receptors, the molecular structures of the receptor has not been clarified. We have isolated a cDNA coding for PAF receptor through expression cloning. The PAF receptor expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and COS-7 cells showed pharmacological properties consistent with those in previous reports. Sequence analysis revealed that PAF receptor belongs to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors.

Molecular cloning and expression of platelet-activating factor receptor from human leukocytes

The cDNA for a platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor was cloned from a human leukocyte cDNA library using a 0.8-kilobase pair fragment of the guinea pig lung PAF receptor cDNA (Honda, Z., Nakamura, M., Miki, I., Minami, M., Watanabe, T., Seyama, Y., Okado, H., Toh, H., Ito, K., Miyamoto, T., and Shimizu, T. (1991) Nature 349, 342-346). The cDNA (1.8-kilobase pairs) had an open reading frame encoding 342 amino acid residues with a calculated Mr of 39,203. The clone was shown to code for a PAF receptor based on the following criteria: 1) the amino acid sequence possesses seven putative membrane spanning domains with 83% identity to the guinea pig lung PAF receptor, 2) Xenopus laevis oocytes injected with the transcript of the clone showed an electrophysiological response to PAF, and 3) COS-7 cells expressing the encoded receptor showed ligand binding with the pharmacological properties of the PAF receptor. Activation of the PAF receptor yielded inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production in both COS-7 cells and oocytes, and guanosine 5'-O-(2-thio)bisphosphate injection into the oocytes inhibited PAF-induced Cl- current, providing an evidence that PAF stimulates phosphoinositide turnover via G-protein(s). PAF receptor mRNA was abundant in leukocytes and less so in an undifferentiated human eosinophilic cell line (EoL-1 cells) or human erythroleukemia cells (HEL cells). The production of the mRNA was prominently increased when EoL-1 cells were treated with granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor, interleukin-5, and n-butyrate.

Demonstration of platelet activating factor receptor in guinea pig kidney

Distribution of platelet activating factor (PAF) receptor was examined in the guinea pig kidney. Northern blot analysis showed a single band electrophoresed just below the 28S rRNA, and the mRNA was richest in the cortex with lesser amounts in the outer and then inner medulla. Scatchard analysis of membrane fraction using [3H]WEB 2086, a specific PAF receptor antagonist, revealed a single binding site with Bmax of 522, 228, 58 fmol/mg protein for the cortex, outer medulla and inner medulla, respectively. Kd values were in the same order of magnitude (10(-8) M). These results indicate the presence of a single class of PAF receptor in the guinea pig kidney which is most abundant in the cortex.

Cloning by functional expression of platelet-activating factor receptor from guinea-pig lung

Platelet-activating factor (PAF), a unique phospholipid mediator, possesses potent proinflammatory, smooth-muscle contractile and hypotensive activities, and appears to be crucial in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma and in the lethality of endotoxin and anaphylactic shock. Despite this, little is known of the molecular properties of the PAF receptor and related signal transduction systems. Although several lines of evidence suggest that activation of the PAF receptor stimulates phospholipase C and subsequent inositol trisphosphate formation through G protein(s), the PAF receptor and calcium channel are reported to show a close relation. As a first approach to cloning lipid autacoid receptors, we have isolated complementary DNA for the PAF receptors. Our strategy involved gene expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes and electrophysiological detection of PAF-induced responses. Sequence analysis indicates that the receptor belongs to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors.

Characterization of the guinea pig lung membrane leukotriene D4 receptor solubilized in an active form. Association and dissociation with an islet-activating protein-sensitive guanine nucleotide-binding protein

Membrane fractions from the guinea pig lung had high- and low-affinity binding sites for LTD4 with Kd values of 0.016 and 9.1 nM, respectively. In the presence of guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTP gamma S) or by prior treatment of the membrane with islet-activating protein (IAP), the high-affinity site shifted to a low-affinity state. Consistently, a 41-kDa protein was ADP-ribosylated by treatment of the lung membranes with IAP, and this event was inhibited by the addition of GTP gamma S. We solubilized the LTD4 receptor from the lung membranes in an active form with 5 mM 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS) and 10% glycerol. On a gel filtration column, the binding activity was eluted at the volume corresponding to a Mr of 70,000 or over 500,000 in the presence or absence of Mg2+ (5-20 mM), respectively, in solubilizing buffers. The Kd value of [3H]LTD4 binding to the 70-kDa protein was similar to the low-affinity binding constant of the membrane and was insensitive to GTP gamma S. The preparation solubilized in the absence of Mg2+ showed both high- and low-affinity binding sites for LTD4, and the addition of GTP gamma S shifted the high-affinity site to a low-affinity one. Thus, 1) the LTD4 receptor is coupled to an IAP-sensitive GTP-binding protein, 2) this GTP-binding protein is dissociable from the receptor by solubilizing the lung membrane with CHAPS and Mg2+, and 3) the receptor associated to or dissociated from a GTP-binding protein exhibited a high- or low-affinity state, respectively. These data provide an insight into the molecular mechanism of regulation of the LTD4 receptor signaling process by association and dissociation with an IAP-sensitive GTP-binding protein.

Solubilization and partial purification of leukotriene C4 synthase from guinea-pig lung: a microsomal enzyme with high specificity towards 5,6-epoxide leukotriene A4

Enzymic activities catalyzing allylic epoxide, leukotriene A4, to leukotriene C4 by conjugation with glutathione were present mainly in microsomal fractions of spleens and lungs of guinea pigs and rats. Leukotriene C4 (LTC4) synthase was solubilized from the microsomes of guinea-pig lung by the new procedures of a combination of 3-[3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio)-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS), digitonin and KCl. The enzyme was partially purified by two steps of column chromatography which resulted in a complete resolution of the enzyme from glutathione S-transferases (EC 2.5.1.18). The partially purified LTC4 synthase showed a Vmax value of 40 nmol/min per mg, and the apparent Km values for LTA4 and glutathione were 36 microM and 1.6 mM, respectively. The enzyme was unstable, and half of the activity was lost by incubation at 37 degrees C for 3 min. Glutathione at 10 mM completely protected the enzyme against this inactivation, while other sulfhydryl-group-reducing reagents were ineffective. The partially purified enzyme revealed a high specificity towards 5,6-epoxide leukotrienes (LTA4 and its methyl ester), while rat cytosolic glutathione S-transferases catalyzed conjugation of glutathione to various positional isomers of epoxide leukotrienes.

Role of protein kinase C in histamine release from human basophils

In this study, we investigated the role of calcium and phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase C, PKC) in the modulation of histamine release from human basophils. A novel and potent inhibitor of PKC, K-252a, inhibited the release of histamine induced by anti-IgE in a dose-dependent manner with ID50 (the dose required for 50% inhibition of histamine release) of 2.2 x 10(-8) M. Histamine release stimulated with 12-0-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate(TPA) was also suppressed by K-252a with maximal inhibition of 48.0 +/- 9.3% at 10(-7) M. In contrast, K-252a did not inhibit the release of histamine in response to FMLP and ionophore A23187. Another inhibitor of PKC, H-7, exhibited a dose-dependent inhibition of anti-IgE-induced histamine release with ID50 of 8.6 x 10(-4) M. H-8 and HA1004, which closely resemble H-7 in chemical structure but are less potent in inhibiting PKC, did not inhibit histamine release stimulated with anti-IgE, but rather enhanced the release at higher concentrations. These results strongly suggest that PKC activation plays a crucial role in the mediation of IgE-mediated histamine release from human basophils.

Suppression of human polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis by adenosine analogs

The effects of adenosine analogs on human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) phagocytosis to latex beads or sheep red blood cells were investigated in an in vitro experiment. The purine compounds such as N6-phenylisopropyladenosine (PIA), 5'-N-ethylcarboxamido-adenosine (NECA), an A2 adenosine receptor agonist, and adenosine as high as 2 mM had no effect on PMN phagocytosis. In contrast, 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA), a P-site adenosine receptor agonist, and 5'-methylthioadenosine (MTA), a naturally occurring purine nucleoside, caused profound inhibition of phagocytic function of PMNs in a dose-dependent manner. Dipyridamole, which blocks purine nucleoside uptake, reversed the suppression due to MTA. Theophylline, an R-site receptor antagonists did not prevent the effect of MTA. These results suggested that phagocytosis of PMNs is suppressed by stimulation of the P-site adenosine receptors.

Differential inhibitory effects of auranofin on leukotriene B4 and leukotriene C4 formation by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Auranofin (AF) is a newly introduced oral gold compound having antirheumatic properties, and its efficacy in the treatment of bronchial asthma is now under investigation. In this study, we examined the effects of AF on leukotriene (LT) formation by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) stimulated with the calcium ionophore A23187. AF inhibited LTC4 formation in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 (concentration required to produce 50% inhibition of control) of 3.2 microM. In contrast, LTB4 formation was not prevented by AF at concentrations up to 6 microM, but it was reduced to 59 +/- 4% (mean +/- SE, N = 3) of control by an 8 microM concentration. As a next step, we explored the mechanisms of the differential inhibitory effects of AF using cell-free systems. When arachidonic acid (AA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were used as substrates, AF inhibited LTC4 synthesis more effectively (IC50 = 14 microM) than LTB4 synthesis (IC50 = 100 microM). However, LTB4 and LTC4 syntheses from LTA4 were affected only slightly by AF within the concentrations tested (3-100 microM). These results in the cell-free systems indicate that the inhibition of LT formation was caused by a reduction of LTA4 synthesis and that the differential inhibitory effects can be ascribed to the higher Km value of glutathione S-transferase for LTA4 than that of LTA4 hydrolase in PMNs. In accordance with this hypothesis, LTC4 synthesis was more dependent than LTB4 synthesis on LTA4 concentrations within 25-100 microM, and AA-861, a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, caused similar differential inhibitory effects on the formation of LTs by intact PMNs. The inhibitory effect of AF on LT formation at physiological concentrations may play some role in the efficacy of this drug.

Clinical evaluation of three types of plasmapheresis in a patient with type IIa familial hypercholesterolemia

Long-term plasmapheresis (PP) therapy was studied in a 56-year-old patient with homozygous type IIa familial hypercholesterolemia also suffering from severe coronary heart disease. Three different PP techniques, plasma exchange (PE), double-membrane-filtration plasmapheresis (DFP), and the recently developed low-density lipoprotein adsorbent column (adsorption plasmapheresis, adsorption PP), were used in an attempt to develop better means of managing the disease. All three techniques showed similar elimination efficiency with respect to plasma total cholesterol level. Adsorption PP with minimal supplemental plasma protein managed the circulatory status of the patient better than DFP during extracorporeal treatment. In the course of PP therapy xanthoma tuberosum markedly regressed, and the cardiac status of the patient was clearly improved.

Differential composition of cytosol 5'-nucleotidases between T and B lymphoblasts

WI-L2 cells (a B-lymphoblastoid cell line) were more resistant than CEM cells (a T-lymphoblastoid cell line) to deoxyadenosine, ara-A (9-beta-D-arabinofuranosyladenine), or ara-C (1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine) inhibition. This was caused by a difference in the composition of cytosol 5'-nucleotidases between WI-L2 and CEM cells. In intact cells, the endogenous production of deoxyadenosine from WI-L2 cells deficient in adenosine kinase (EC 2.7.1.20) and deoxycytidine kinase (EC 2.7.1.74) was consistently high, despite changes in endogenous adenosine production. Endogenous production of deoxyadenosine from CEM cells deficient in adenosine kinase and deoxycytidine kinase was, however, coordinated with endogenous adenosine production. In broken cells, cytosol dAMPase (2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-monophosphate 5'-nucleotidase) activity of WI-L2 cells was 3-5-fold higher than that of CEM cells. dAMPase activity could be separated from ATP-activated IMPase (inosine 5'-monophosphate 5'-nucleotidase) by gel filtration (molecular weight: dAMPase; 39,000-46,000; ATP-activated IMPase, greater than 150,000). Cytosol ATP-activated IMPase and dAMPase were isolated by phosphocellulose or DEAE-Bio-Gel A chromatography from non-specific phosphatases. The ATP-activated IMPase showed only marginal activity towards dAMP (2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-monophosphate), ara-AMP (9-beta-D-arabinofuranosyladenine 5'-monophosphate), or ara-CMP (cytosine-beta-D-arabinofuranoside 5'-monophosphate), even in the presence of ATP. The activity of ATP-activated IMPase was similar in WI-L2 and CEM cells. dAMPase was separated into two peaks by DEAE-Bio-Gel A chromatography; one of these peaks degraded ara-AMP and ara-CMP. The activities of both peaks from WI-L2 cells were higher than those from CEM cells. These results show that the degradation of dAMP, ara-AMP or ara-CMP was more specific and rapid in WI-L2 than in CEM cells.