Shikonin causes cell-cycle arrest and induces apoptosis by regulating the EGFR-NF-κB signalling pathway in human epidermoid carcinoma A431 cells

Shikonin, a naphthoquinone pigment isolated from the Chinese herbal Zicao, has been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anticancer effects. In the present study, we investigated the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of shikonin on A431 cells and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. In the present study, our results showed that shikonin significantly inhibited the growth of A431 cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, and caused cell cycle arrest by upregulation of p21 and p27, and downregulation of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. In addition, shikonin evidently induced apoptosis due to decreasing Bcl-2 expression, increasing Bax expression, activating caspase and inactivating NF-κB, while pretreatment with a pan-caspase inhibitor Z-Asp-CH2-DCB abrogated shikonin-induced apoptosis. Moreover, EGF could significantly increase the NF-κB DNA-binding activity and reversed the shikonin-induced inactivation of NF-κB. As anticipated AG1478 (EGFR inhibitor) and Bay11-7082 (NF-κB inhibitor) blocked EGF-reversed the inactivation of NF-κB induced by shikonin. Our data also showed that EGF could evidently reverse the shikonin-induced decreases in cell viability and increases in apoptosis. Then, the NF-κB inhibitors such as Bay11-7082, SN50, Helenalin and the EGFR inhibitor AG1478 and its downstream inhibitor such as PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and STAT3 inhibitor Stattic dramatically blocked EGF-reversed decreases in cell viability and increases in apoptosis induced by shikonin. Collectively, our findings indicated that shikonin inhibited cell growth and caused cell cycle arrest of the A431 cells through the regulation of apoptosis. Moreover, these effects were mediated at least partially by suppressing the activation of the EGFR-NF-κB signaling pathways.

The multifaceted responses of primary human astrocytes and brain microvascular endothelial cells to the Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi

The vector-borne pathogen, Borrelia burgdorferi, causes a multi-system disorder including neurological complications. These neurological disorders, collectively termed neuroborreliosis, can occur in up to 15% of untreated patients. The neurological symptoms are probably a result of a glial-driven, host inflammatory response to the bacterium. However, the specific contributions of individual glial and other support cell types to the pathogenesis of neuroborreliosis are relatively unexplored. The goal of this project was to characterize specific astrocyte and endothelial cell responses to B. burgdorferi. Primary human astrocytes and primary HBMEC (human brain microvascular endothelial cells) were incubated with B. burgdorferi over a 72-h period and the transcriptional responses to the bacterium were analyzed by real-time PCR arrays. There was a robust increase in several surveyed chemokine and related genes, including IL (interleukin)-8, for both primary astrocytes and HBMEC. Array results were confirmed with individual sets of PCR primers. The production of specific chemokines by both astrocytes and HBMEC in response to B. burgdorferi, including IL-8, CXCL-1, and CXCL-10, were confirmed by ELISA. These results demonstrate that primary astrocytes and HBMEC respond to virulent B. burgdorferi by producing a number of chemokines. These data suggest that infiltrating phagocytic cells, particularly neutrophils, attracted by chemokines expressed at the BBB (blood-brain barrier) may be important contributors to the early inflammatory events associated with neuroborreliosis.

DBC1 (Deleted in Breast Cancer 1) modulates the stability and function of the nuclear receptor Rev-erbα

The nuclear receptor Rev-erbα has been implicated as a major regulator of the circadian clock and integrates circadian rhythm and metabolism. Rev-erbα controls circadian oscillations of several clock genes and Rev-erbα protein degradation is important for maintenance of the circadian oscillations and also for adipocyte differentiation. Elucidating the mechanisms that regulate Rev-erbα stability is essential for our understanding of these processes. In the present paper, we report that the protein DBC1 (Deleted in Breast Cancer 1) is a novel regulator of Rev-erbα. Rev-erbα and DBC1 interact in cells and in vivo, and DBC1 modulates the Rev-erbα repressor function. Depletion of DBC1 by siRNA (small interfering RNA) in cells or in DBC1-KO (knockout) mice produced a marked decrease in Rev-erbα protein levels, but not in mRNA levels. In contrast, DBC1 overexpression significantly enhanced Rev-erbα protein stability by preventing its ubiquitination and degradation. The regulation of Rev-erbα protein levels and function by DBC1 depends on both the N-terminal and C-terminal domains of DBC1. More importantly, in cells depleted of DBC1, there was a dramatic decrease in circadian oscillations of both Rev-erbα and BMAL1. In summary, our data identify DBC1 as an important regulator of the circadian receptor Rev-erbα and proposes that Rev-erbα could be involved in mediating some of the physiological effects of DBC1.

AS160 deficiency causes whole-body insulin resistance via composite effects in multiple tissues

AS160 (Akt substrate of 160 kDa) is a Rab GTPase-activating protein implicated in insulin control of GLUT4 (glucose transporter 4) trafficking. In humans, a truncation mutation (R363X) in one allele of AS160 decreased the expression of the protein and caused severe postprandial hyperinsulinaemia during puberty. To complement the limited studies possible in humans, we generated an AS160-knockout mouse. In wild-type mice, AS160 expression is relatively high in adipose tissue and soleus muscle, low in EDL (extensor digitorum longus) muscle and detectable in liver only after enrichment. Despite having lower blood glucose levels under both fasted and random-fed conditions, the AS160-knockout mice exhibited insulin resistance in both muscle and liver in a euglycaemic clamp study. Consistent with this paradoxical phenotype, basal glucose uptake was higher in AS160-knockout primary adipocytes and normal in isolated soleus muscle, but their insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and overall GLUT4 levels were markedly decreased. In contrast, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and GLUT4 levels were normal in EDL muscle. The liver also contributes to the AS160-knockout phenotype via hepatic insulin resistance, elevated hepatic expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase isoforms and pyruvate intolerance, which are indicative of increased gluconeogenesis. Overall, as well as its catalytic function, AS160 influences expression of other proteins, and its loss deregulates basal and insulin-regulated glucose homoeostasis, not only in tissues that normally express AS160, but also by influencing liver function.

A novel dual-fluorescence strategy for functionally validating microRNA targets in 3' untranslated regions: regulation of the inward rectifier potassium channel K(ir)2.1 by miR-212

Gene targeting by microRNAs is important in health and disease. We developed a functional assay for identifying microRNA targets and applied it to the K(+) channel K(ir)2.1 [KCNJ2 (potassium inwardly-rectifying channel, subfamily J, member 2)] which is dysregulated in cardiac and vascular disorders. The 3'UTR (untranslated region) was inserted downstream of the mCherry red fluorescent protein coding sequence in a mammalian expression plasmid. MicroRNA sequences were inserted into the pSM30 expression vector which provides enhanced green fluorescent protein as an indicator of microRNA expression. HEK (human embryonic kidney)-293 cells were co-transfected with the mCherry-3'UTR plasmid and a pSM30-based plasmid with a microRNA insert. The principle of the assay is that functional targeting of the 3'UTR by the microRNA results in a decrease in the red/green fluorescence intensity ratio as determined by automated image analysis. The method was validated with miR-1, a known down-regulator of K(ir)2.1 expression, and was used to investigate the targeting of the K(ir)2.1 3'UTR by miR-212. The red/green ratio was lower in miR-212-expressing cells compared with the non-targeting controls, an effect that was attenuated by mutating the predicted target site. miR-212 also reduced inward rectifier current and K(ir)2.1 protein in HeLa cells. This novel assay has several advantages over traditional luciferase-based assays including larger sample size, amenability to time course studies and adaptability to high-throughput screening.

Analysis of LIN28A in early human ovary development and as a candidate gene for primary ovarian insufficiency

Lin28 proteins are emerging as important regulators of microRNAs in endocrine systems. Lin28a regulates primordial germ cell development and puberty timing in mice, whereas the related protein LIN28B is associated with age at menarche in genome-wide association studies in humans. Here, we studied expression of LIN28A and LIN28B in early human gonad development. LIN28A increased in the developing ovary between 6 and 9weeks post conception, but not in the developing testis. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated LIN28A in peripheral germ cells. LIN28B was expressed at lower levels in both tissues and did not increase with time. As disruption of Lin28a affects germ cell development in mice, LIN28A was considered a candidate gene for primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in humans. However, no significant changes were found in 50 women studied. These findings show LIN28A is strongly expressed in germ cells during early human ovary development, but disruption of LIN28A is not a common cause of POI.

Effects of fenbendazole on the murine humoral immune system

Pinworms are highly contagious parasites that have been effectively treated in laboratory rodents with fenbendazole (FBZ). Whether FBZ has any detrimental side effects that may compromise experimental results is unknown. Here we asked whether the immune systems from young and aged mice are altered under FBZ treatment. We compared control and FBZ-treated groups of young (age, 2 to 4 mo) and old (age, 22 to 24 mo) BALB/cN mice. The treated mice received a total of 4 wk (alternating-week treatment regimen) of FBZ-medicated feed. Spleen and bone marrow were collected for immunologic assays, and heart, stomach, intestines, kidneys, and liver were evaluated by histopathology. Our results indicate that FBZ treatment has significant effects on the immune systems of mice; these effects are greater in aged mice. FBZ treatment adversely affected mRNA and protein expression of E2A (a transcription factor crucial for B lymphocytes) in activated precursor B lymphocytes obtained from the bone marrow of young and old mice. These effects were reversed by 6 wk on regular feed after the end of treatment. Activated B lymphocytes from the spleens of young and old mice showed decreased function (cell proliferation, E2A mRNA and protein expression) through the last time point of FBZ treatment but recovered by 2 to 4 wk after treatment. Our findings suggest that FBZ treatment may alter sensitive immune and molecular measures as presented here, and postponing the experimental use of mice until at least 6 wk after treatment should be considered.

Phospholipase C-gamma1 is required for the activation of store-operated Ca2+ channels in liver cells

Repetitive hormone-induced changes in concentration of free cytoplasmic Ca2+ in hepatocytes require Ca2+ entry through receptor-activated Ca2+ channels and SOCs (store-operated Ca2+ channels). SOCs are activated by a decrease in Ca2+ concentration in the intracellular Ca2+ stores, but the molecular components and mechanisms are not well understood. Some studies with other cell types suggest that PLC-gamma (phospholipase C-gamma) is involved in the activation of receptor-activated Ca2+ channels and/or SOCs, independently of PLC-gamma-mediated generation of IP3 (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate). The nature of the Ca2+ channels regulated by PLC-gamma has not been defined clearly. The aim of the present study was to determine if PLC-gamma is required for the activation of SOCs in liver cells. Transfection of H4IIE cells derived from rat hepatocytes with siRNA (short interfering RNA) targeted to PLC-gamma1 caused a reduction (by approx. 70%) in the PLC-gamma1 protein expression, with maximal effect at 72-96 h. This was associated with a decrease (by approx. 60%) in the amplitude of the I(SOC) (store-operated Ca2+ current) developed in response to intracellular perfusion with either IP(3) or thapsigargin. Knockdown of STIM1 (stromal interaction molecule type 1) by siRNA also resulted in a significant reduction (approx. 80% at 72 h post-transfection) of the I(SOC) amplitude. Immunoprecipitation of PLC-gamma1 and STIM1, however, suggested that under the experimental conditions these proteins do not interact with each other. It is concluded that the PLC-gamma1 protein, independently of IP3 generation and STIM1, is required to couple endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release to the activation of SOCs in the plasma membrane of H4IIE liver cells.

PPARalpha and AP-2alpha regulate bombesin receptor subtype 3 expression in ozone-stressed bronchial epithelial cells

Previously, we found that bombesin receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3) significantly increased in an ozone-stressed airway hyperresponsiveness animal model and resulted in induced wound repair and protection from acute lung injury. In the present study, we determined molecular mechanisms of BRS-3 regulation in human BECs (bronchial epithelial cells) in response to ozone stress. Ten oligonucleotide probes corresponding to various regions of the BRS-3 promoter were used in EMSA (electrophoretic mobilityshift assays). Four were found to have an enhanced mobility shift with extracts from ozone-stressed cells. On the basis of the assay of mutated probes binding with extracts and antibody supershift, they were verified as MTF-1 (metal-regulatory-element-binding transcription factor-1), PPARalpha (peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor alpha), AP-2alpha (activator protein 2alpha) and HSF-1 (heat-shock factor 1). Next, ChIP (chromatin immunoprecipitation) assay, site-directed mutagenesis technology and antisense oligonucleotide technology were used to observe these transcription factors associated with the BRS-3 promoter. Only AP-2alpha and PPARalpha increased ozone-inducible DNA binding on the BRS-3 promoter and BRS-3 expression. The time courses of AP-2alpha and PPARalpha activation, followed by BRS-3 expression, were also examined. It was shown that ozone-inducible BRS-3 expression and AP-2alpha- and PPARalpha-binding activity correlated over a 48 h period. The translocation of PPARalpha was observed by immunofluorescence assay, which showed that PPARalpha nuclear translocation increased after ozone exposure. Our data suggest that AP-2alpha and PPARalpha may be especially involved in this ozone-inducible up-regulation mechanism of BRS-3 expression.

Involvement of chondroitin sulfate synthase-3 (chondroitin synthase-2) in chondroitin polymerization through its interaction with chondroitin synthase-1 or chondroitin-polymerizing factor

Previously, we have demonstrated that co-expression of ChSy-1 (chondroitin synthase-1), with ChPF (chondroitin-polymerizing factor) resulted in a marked augmentation of glycosyltransferase activities and the expression of the chondroitin polymerase activity of ChSy-1. These results prompted us to evaluate the effects of co-expression of the recently cloned CSS3 (chondroitin sulfate synthase-3) with ChPF, because ChSy-1 and CSS3 have similar properties, i.e. they possess GalNAcT-II (N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-II) and GlcAT-II (glucuronyltransferase-II) activities responsible for the elongation of CS (chondroitin sulfate) chains but cannot polymerize chondroitin chains by themselves. Co-expressed CSS3 and ChPF showed not only substantial GalNAcT-II and GlcAT-II activities but also chondroitin polymerase activity. Interestingly, co-expressed ChSy-1 and CSS3 also exhibited polymerase activity. The chain length of chondroitin formed by the co-expressed proteins in various combinations was different. In addition, interactions between any two of ChSy-1, CSS3 and ChPF were demonstrated by pull-down assays. Moreover, overexpression of CSS3 increased the amount of CS in HeLa cells, while the RNA interference of CSS3 resulted in a reduction in the amount of CS in the cells. Altogether these results suggest that chondroitin polymerization is achieved by multiple combinations of ChSy-1, CSS3 and ChPF. Based on these characteristics, we have renamed CSS3 ChSy-2 (chondroitin synthase-2).

Induced JunD in intestinal epithelial cells represses CDK4 transcription through its proximal promoter region following polyamine depletion

Maintenance of intestinal epithelial integrity requires cellular polyamines that regulate expression of various genes involved in cell proliferation, growth arrest and apoptosis. In prior studies, depletion of cellular polyamines has been shown to stabilize JunD, a member of the AP-1 (activator protein-1) family of transcription factors, leading to inhibition of intestinal epithelial cell proliferation, but the exact downstream targets of induced JunD remain elusive. CDK4 (cyclin-dependent kinase 4) is essential for the G1- to S-phase transition during the cell cycle and its expression is primarily controlled at the transcriptional level. In the present study, we show that induced JunD in IECs (intestinal epithelial cells) is a transcriptional repressor of the CDK4 gene following polyamine depletion. Increased JunD in polyamine-deficient cells was associated with a significant inhibition of CDK4 transcription, as indicated by repression of CDK4-promoter activity and decreased levels of CDK4 mRNA and protein, all of which were prevented by using specific antisense JunD oligomers. Ectopic expression of the wild-type junD also repressed CDK4-promoter activity and decreased levels of CDK4 mRNA and protein without any effect on CDK2 expression. Gel shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that JunD bound to the proximal region of the CDK4-promoter in vitro as well as in vivo, while experiments using different CDK4-promoter mutants showed that transcriptional repression of CDK4 by JunD was mediated through an AP-1 binding site within this proximal sequence of the CDK4-promoter. These results indicate that induced JunD in IECs represses CDK4 transcription through its proximal promoter region following polyamine depletion.

The regulation of ATF3 gene expression by mitogen-activated protein kinases

ATF3 (activating transcription factor 3) gene encodes a member of the ATF/CREB (cAMP-response-element-binding protein) family of transcription factors. Its expression is induced by a wide range of signals, including stress signals and signals that promote cell proliferation and motility. Thus the ATF3 gene can be characterized as an 'adaptive response' gene for the cells to cope with extra- and/or intra-cellular changes. In the present study, we demonstrate that the p38 signalling pathway is involved in the induction of ATF3 by stress signals. Ectopic expression of CA (constitutively active) MKK6 [MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) kinase 6], a kinase upstream of p38, indicated that activation of the p38 pathway is sufficient to induce the expression of the ATF3 gene. Inhibition of the pathway indicated that the p38 pathway is necessary for various signals to induce ATF3, including anisomycin, IL-1beta (interleukin 1beta), TNFalpha (tumour necrosis factor alpha) and H2O2. Analysis of the endogenous ATF3 gene indicates that the regulation is at least in part at the transcription level. Specifically, CREB, a transcription factor known to be phosphorylated by p38, plays a role in this induction. Interestingly, the ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) and JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase)/SAPK (stress-activated protein kinase) signalling pathways are neither necessary nor sufficient to induce ATF3 in the anisomycin stress paradigm. Furthermore, analysis of caspase 3 activation indicated that knocking down ATF3 reduced the ability of MKK6(CA) to exert its pro-apoptotic effect. Taken together, our results indicate that a major signalling pathway, the p38 pathway, plays a critical role in the induction of ATF3 by stress signals, and that ATF3 is functionally important to mediate the pro-apoptotic effects of p38.

STAT5 proteins are involved in down-regulation of iron regulatory protein 1 gene expression by nitric oxide

RNA-binding activity of IRP1 (iron regulatory protein 1) is regulated by the insertion/extrusion of a [4Fe-4S] cluster into/from the IRP1 molecule. NO (nitic oxide), whose ability to activate IRP1 by removing its [4Fe-4S] cluster is well known, has also been shown to down-regulate expression of the IRP1 gene. In the present study, we examine whether this regulation occurs at the transcriptional level. Analysis of the mouse IRP1 promoter sequence revealed two conserved putative binding sites for transcription factor(s) regulated by NO and/or changes in intracellular iron level: Sp1 (promoter-selective transcription factor 1) and MTF1 (metal transcription factor 1), plus GAS (interferon-gamma-activated sequence), a binding site for STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) proteins. In order to define the functional activity of these sequences, reporter constructs were generated through the insertion of overlapping fragments of the mouse IRP1 promoter upstream of the luciferase gene. Transient expression assays following transfection of HuH7 cells with these plasmids revealed that while both the Sp1 and GAS sequences are involved in basal transcriptional activity of the IRP1 promoter, the role of the latter is predominant. Analysis of protein binding to these sequences in EMSAs (electrophoretic mobility-shift assays) using nuclear extracts from mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated to synthesize NO showed a significant decrease in the formation of Sp1-DNA and STAT-DNA complexes, compared with controls. We have also demonstrated that the GAS sequence is involved in NO-dependent down-regulation of IRP1 transcription. Further analysis revealed that levels of STAT5a and STAT5b in the nucleus and cytosol of NO-producing macrophages are substantially lower than in control cells. These findings provide evidence that STAT5 proteins play a role in NO-mediated down-regulation of IRP1 gene expression.

SPARC-induced migration of glioblastoma cell lines via uPA-uPAR signaling and activation of small GTPase RhoA

Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is highly expressed in human gliomas where it promotes invasion and delays tumor growth, both in vitro and in vivo. SPARC, which interacts at the cell surface, has an impact on intracellular signaling and downstream gene expression changes, which might account for some of its effects on invasion and growth. Additionally in vitro studies demonstrated that SPARC delays growth, increases attachment, and modulates migration of tumor cells in an extracellular matrix-specific and concentration-dependent manner. Because the signaling aspect of this migration is neither well understood nor characterized, we overexpressed SPARC in both the minimally-invasive U87 cell line and in the most aggressive invasive cell line, SNB19. We first performed RT-PCR analysis and observed an upregulation of uPA and its receptor, uPAR. We also observed increased expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9). Western blot analysis confirmed these results, and the enzymatic activity of the metalloproteinases and uPA was further supported by zymography. Downstream of the uPA-uPAR interaction, upregulation of PI3-K occurred in cells overexpressing SPARC. Using GST-TRBD, we showed the upregulation of active GTP-bound RhoA, but neither Rac1 nor Cdc42 were activated. The inhibition of uPA and uPAR downregulated PI3-K activity and cell migration, as shown by matrigel invasion assay. A dorsal skin-fold chamber model revealed the high angiogenic activity of SPARC, though the proliferation of SPARC overexpressing cells was unaffected. Our results show that the small GTPase RhoA was a critical mediator of invasion or migration in the uPA-uPAR/PI3-K signaling pathway.

Identification and characterization of Thermoplasma acidophilum glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase: a new class of NADP+-specific aldehyde dehydrogenase

Thermoacidophilic archaea such as Thermoplasma acidophilum and Sulfolobus solfataricus are known to metabolize D-glucose via the nED (non-phosphorylated Entner-Doudoroff) pathway. In the present study, we identified and characterized a glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase involved in the downstream portion of the nED pathway. This glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase was purified from T. acidophilum cell extracts by sequential chromatography on DEAE-Sepharose, Q-Sepharose, Phenyl-Sepharose and Affi-Gel Blue columns. SDS/PAGE of the purified enzyme showed a molecular mass of approx. 53 kDa, whereas the molecular mass of the native protein was 215 kDa, indicating that glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase is a tetrameric protein. By MALDI-TOF-MS (matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization-time-of-flight MS) peptide fingerprinting of the purified protein, it was found that the gene product of Ta0809 in the T. acidophilum genome database corresponds to the purified glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase. The native enzyme showed the highest activity towards glyceraldehyde, but no activity towards aliphatic or aromatic aldehydes, and no activity when NAD+ was substituted for NADP+. Analysis of the amino acid sequence and enzyme inhibition studies indicated that this glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase belongs to the ALDH (aldehyde dehydrogenase) superfamily. BLAST searches showed that homologues of the Ta0809 protein are not present in the Sulfolobus genome. Possible differences between T. acidophilum (Euryarchaeota) and S. solfataricus (Crenarchaeaota) in terms of the glycolytic pathway are thus expected.

Poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase silencing protects against H2O2-induced cell death

PAR [poly(ADP-ribose)] is a structural and regulatory component of multiprotein complexes in eukaryotic cells. PAR catabolism is accelerated under genotoxic stress conditions and this is largely attributable to the activity of a PARG (PAR glycohydrolase). To overcome the early embryonic lethality of parg-knockout mice and gain more insights into the biological functions of PARG, we used an RNA interference approach. We found that as little as 10% of PARG protein is sufficient to ensure basic cellular functions: PARG-silenced murine and human cells proliferated normally through several subculturing rounds and they were able to repair DNA damage induced by sublethal doses of H2O2. However, cell survival following treatment with higher concentrations of H2O2 (0.05-1 mM) was increased. In fact, PARG-silenced cells were more resistant than their wild-type counterparts to oxidant-induced apoptosis while exhibiting delayed PAR degradation and transient accumulation of ADP-ribose polymers longer than 15-mers at early stages of drug treatment. No difference was observed in response to the DNA alkylating agent N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine, suggesting a specific involvement of PARG in the cellular response to oxidative DNA damage.

Calcium-dependent and -independent interactions of the S100 protein family

The S100 proteins comprise at least 25 members, forming the largest group of EF-hand signalling proteins in humans. Although the proteins are expressed in many tissues, each S100 protein has generally been shown to have a preference for expression in one particular tissue or cell type. Three-dimensional structures of several S100 family members have shown that the proteins assume a dimeric structure consisting of two EF-hand motifs per monomer. Calcium binding to these S100 proteins, with the exception of S100A10, results in an approx. 40 degrees alteration in the position of helix III, exposing a broad hydrophobic surface that enables the S100 proteins to interact with a variety of target proteins. More than 90 potential target proteins have been documented for the S100 proteins, including the cytoskeletal proteins tubulin, glial fibrillary acidic protein and F-actin, which have been identified mostly from in vitro experiments. In the last 5 years, efforts have concentrated on quantifying the protein interactions of the S100 proteins, identifying in vivo protein partners and understanding the molecular specificity for target protein interactions. Furthermore, the S100 proteins are the only EF-hand proteins that are known to form both homo- and hetero-dimers, and efforts are underway to determine the stabilities of these complexes and structural rationales for their formation and potential differences in their biological roles. This review highlights both the calcium-dependent and -independent interactions of the S100 proteins, with a focus on the structures of the complexes, differences and similarities in the strengths of the interactions, and preferences for homo- compared with hetero-dimeric S100 protein assembly.

Identification of Ebp1 as a component of cytoplasmic bcl-2 mRNP (messenger ribonucleoprotein particle) complexes

The 3'-UTR (untranslated region) of bcl-2 mRNA contains an ARE (AU-rich element) that potentially regulates the stability of bcl-2 mRNA in a cell specific fashion. Previous studies have demonstrated that multiple proteins interact with bcl-2 mRNA in HL-60 (human leukaemia-60) cells, potentially contributing to the overexpression of Bcl-2 protein. Treatment of HL-60 cells with taxol or okadaic acid has been shown to induce destabilization of bcl-2 mRNA, which was associated with decreased binding of trans-acting factors to bcl-2 mRNA. Nucleolin has been identified as one of the bcl-2 mRNA-binding proteins [Sengupta, Bandyopadhyay, Fernandes and Spicer (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 10855-10863]. In an effort to identify additional bcl-2 mRNA-binding proteins, two polypeptides of approx. 45 kDa and 60 kDa were isolated from HL-60 cells by ARE(bcl-2) (transcripts that contain bcl-2 AREs) RNA affinity chromatography. These proteins were identified as the human proliferation associated protein, Ebp1, and human DRBP76 (double stranded RNA-binding protein 76) respectively, by MALDI (matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization)-MS. RNA electrophoretic mobility shift assays indicated that recombinant Ebp1 binds to ARE(bcl-2) RNA but not to the group 1 ARE present in GM-CSF (granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor) mRNA in vitro. Antibody supershift assays demonstrated that Ebp1 is present in protein-ARE(bcl-2) RNA complexes formed with cytosolic HL-60 extracts. The interaction of Ebp1 with bcl-2 mRNA in HL-60 cells was also demonstrated by RNA co-immunoprecipitation assays. This interaction was not detected in extracts of taxol-treated HL-60 cells. Immunoprecipitation assays further revealed that Ebp1 co-precipitates with nucleolin from HL-60 cytoplasmic extracts. The observation that co-precipitation was decreased when extracts were treated with RNase suggests that Ebp1 and nucleolin are present in the same bcl-2 mRNP (messenger ribonucleoprotein particle) complexes. RNA-decay assays further demonstrated that Ebp1 decreased the rate of decay of beta-globin-ARE(bcl-2) transcripts in HL-60 cell extracts. Collectively, these results indicate a novel function for Ebp1 in contributing to the regulation of bcl-2 expression in HL-60 cells.

Ca2+-ATPases in non-failing and failing heart: evidence for a novel cardiac sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 2 isoform (SERCA2c)

We recently documented the expression of a novel human mRNA variant encoding a yet uncharacterized SERCA [SR (sarcoplasmic reticulum)/ER (endoplasmic reticulum) Ca2+-ATPase] protein, SERCA2c [Gélébart, Martin, Enouf and Papp (2003) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 303, 676-684]. In the present study, we have analysed the expression and functional characteristics of SERCA2c relative to SERCA2a and SERCA2b isoforms upon their stable heterologous expression in HEK-293 cells (human embryonic kidney 293 cells). All SERCA2 proteins induced an increased Ca2+ content in the ER of intact transfected cells. In microsomes prepared from transfected cells, SERCA2c showed a lower apparent affinity for cytosolic Ca2+ than SERCA2a and a catalytic turnover rate similar to SERCA2b. We further demonstrated the expression of the endogenous SERCA2c protein in protein lysates isolated from heart left ventricles using a newly generated SERCA2c-specific antibody. Relative to the known uniform distribution of SERCA2a and SERCA2b in cardiomyocytes of the left ventricle tissue, SERCA2c was only detected in a confined area of cardiomyocytes, in close proximity to the sarcolemma. This finding led us to explore the expression of the presently known cardiac Ca2+-ATPase isoforms in heart failure. Comparative expression of SERCAs and PMCAs (plasma-membrane Ca2+-ATPases) was performed in four nonfailing hearts and five failing hearts displaying mixed cardiomyopathy and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathies. Relative to normal subjects, cardiomyopathic patients express more PMCAs than SERCA2 proteins. Interestingly, SERCA2c expression was significantly increased (166+/-26%) in one patient. Taken together, these results demonstrate the expression of the novel SERCA2c isoform in the heart and may point to a still unrecognized role of PMCAs in cardiomyopathies.

Human acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase 2 gene expression in intestinal Caco-2 cells and in hepatocellular carcinoma

Humans express two ACAT (acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase) genes, ACAT1 and ACAT2. ACAT1 is ubiquitously expressed, whereas ACAT2 is primarily expressed in intestinal mucosa and plays an important role in intestinal cholesterol absorption. To investigate the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for the tissue-specific expression of ACAT2, we identified five cis-elements within the human ACAT2 promoter, four for the intestinal-specific transcription factor CDX2 (caudal type homeobox transcription factor 2), and one for the transcription factor HNF1alpha (hepatocyte nuclear factor 1alpha). Results of luciferase reporter and electrophoretic mobility shift assays show that CDX2 and HNF1alpha exert a synergistic effect, enhancing the ACAT2 promoter activity through binding to these cis-elements. In undifferentiated Caco-2 cells, the ACAT2 expression is increased when exogenous CDX2 and/or HNF1alpha are expressed by co-transfection. In differentiated Caco-2 cells, the ACAT2 expression significantly decreases when the endogenous CDX2 or HNF1alpha expression is suppressed by using RNAi (RNA interference) technology. The expression levels of CDX2, HNF1alpha, and ACAT2 are all greatly increased when the Caco-2 cells differentiate to become intestinal-like cells. These results provide a molecular mechanism for the tissue-specific expression of ACAT2 in intestine. In normal adult human liver, CDX2 expression is not detectable and the ACAT2 expression is very low. In the hepatoma cell line HepG2 the CDX2 expression is elevated, accounting for its elevated ACAT2 expression. A high percentage (seven of fourteen) of liver samples from patients affected with hepatocellular carcinoma exhibited elevated ACAT2 expression. Thus, the elevated ACAT2 expression may serve as a new biomarker for certain form(s) of hepatocellular carcinoma.

A novel ARF-binding protein (LZAP) alters ARF regulation of HDM2

The tumour suppressor ARF (alternative reading frame) is encoded by the INK4a (inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 4)/ARF locus, which is frequently altered in human tumours. ARF binds MDM2 (murine double minute 2) and releases p53 from inhibition by MDM2, resulting in stabilization, accumulation and activation of p53. Recently, ARF has been found to associate with other proteins, but, to date, little is known about ARF-associated proteins that are implicated in post-translational regulation of ARF activity. Using a yeast two-hybrid screen, we have identified a novel protein, LZAP (LXXLL/leucine-zipper-containing ARF-binding protein), that interacts with endogenous ARF in mammalian cells. In the present study, we show that LZAP reversed the ability of ARF to inhibit HDM2's ubiquitin ligase activity towards p53, but simultaneously co-operated with ARF, maintaining p53 stability and increasing p53 transcriptional activity. Expression of LZAP, in addition to ARF, increased the percentage of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Expression of LZAP also caused activation of p53 and a p53-dependent G1 cell-cycle arrest in the absence of ARF. Taken together, our data suggest that LZAP can regulate ARF biochemical and biological activity. Additionally, LZAP has p53-dependent cell-cycle effects that are independent of ARF.

Role of the vitamin D receptor in FGF23 action on phosphate metabolism

FGF23 (fibroblast growth factor 23) is a novel phosphaturic factor that influences vitamin D metabolism and renal re-absorption of Pi. The goal of the present study was to characterize the role of the VDR (vitamin D receptor) in FGF23 action using VDR(-/-) (VDR null) mice. Injection of FGF23M (naked DNA encoding the R179Q mutant of human FGF23) into VDR(-/-) and wildtype VDR(+/+) mice resulted in an elevation in serum FGF23 levels, but had no effect on serum calcium or parathyroid hormone levels. In contrast, injection of FGF23M resulted in significant decreases in serum Pi levels, renal Na/Pi co-transport activity and type II transporter protein levels in both groups when compared with controls injected with mock vector or with FGFWT (naked DNA encoding wild-type human FGF23). Injection of FGF23M resulted in a decrease in 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1a-hydroxylase mRNA levels in VDR(-/-) and VDR(+/+) mice, while 25-hydroxyvitamin D 24-hydroxylase mRNA levels were significantly increased in FGF23M-treated animals compared with mock vector control- or FGF23WT-treated animals. The degree of 24-hydroxylase induction by FGF23M was dependent on the VDR, since FGF23M significantly reduced the levels of serum 1,25(OH)2D3 [1,25-hydroxyvitamin D3] in VDR(+/+) mice, but not in VDR(-/-) mice. We conclude that FGF23 reduces renal Pi transport and 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1a-hydroxylase levels by a mechanism that is independent of the VDR. In contrast, the induction of 25-hydroxyvitamin D 24-hydroxylase and the reduction of serum 1,25(OH)2D3 levels induced by FGF23 are dependent on the VDR.

Purification, characterization and molecular cloning of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored arginine-specific ADP-ribosyltransferases from chicken

Mono-ADP-ribosylation is a post-translational modification that regulates the functions of target proteins or peptides by attaching an ADP-ribose moiety. Here we report the purification, molecular cloning, characterization and tissue-specific distribution of novel arginine-specific Arts (ADP-ribosyltransferases) from chicken. Arts were detected in various chicken tissues as GPI (glycosylphosphatidylinositol)-anchored forms, and purified from the lung membrane fraction. By molecular cloning based on the partial amino acid sequence using 5'- and 3'-RACE (rapid amplification of cDNA ends), two full-length cDNAs of chicken GPI-anchored Arts, cgArt1 (chicken GPI-anchored Art1) and cgArt2, were obtained. The cDNA of cgArt1 encoded a novel polypeptide of 298 amino acids which shows a high degree of identity with cgArt2 (82.9%), Art6.1 (50.2%) and rabbit Art1 (42.1%). In contrast, the nucleotide sequence of cgArt2 was identical with that of Art7 cloned previously from chicken erythroblasts. cgArt1 and cgArt2 proteins expressed in DT40 cells were shown to be GPI-anchored Arts with a molecular mass of 45 kDa, and these Arts showed different enzymatic properties from the soluble chicken Art, Art6.1. RNase protection assays and real-time quantitative PCR revealed distinct expression patterns of the two Arts; cgArt1 was expressed predominantly in the lung, spleen and bone marrow, followed by the heart, kidney and muscle, while cgArt2 was expressed only in the heart and skeletal muscle. Thus GPI-anchored Arts encoded by the genes cgArt1 and cgArt2 are expressed extensively in chicken tissues. It may be worthwhile determining the functional roles of ADP-ribosylation in each tissue.

Preservation of eumelanin hair pigmentation in proopiomelanocortin-deficient mice on a nonagouti (a/a) genetic background

The original strain of proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-deficient mice (Pomc-/-) was generated by homologous recombination in 129X1/SvJ (A(w)/A(w))-derived embryonic stem cells using a targeting construct that deleted exon 3, encoding all the known functional POMC-derived peptides including alpha MSH, from the Pomc gene. Although these Pomc-/- mice exhibited adrenal hypoplasia and obesity similar to the syndrome of POMC deficiency in children, their agouti coat color was only subtly altered. To further investigate the mechanism of hair pigmentation in the absence of POMC peptides, we studied wild-type (Pomc+/+), heterozygous (Pomc+/-), and homozygous (Pomc-/-) mice on a nonagouti (a/a) 129;B6 hybrid genetic background. All three genotypes had similar black fur pigmentation with yellow hairs behind the ears, around the nipples, and in the perianal area characteristic of inbred C57BL/6 mice. Histologic and electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometry examination demonstrated that hair follicles in back skin of Pomc-/- mice developed with normal structure and eumelanin pigmentation; corresponding molecular analyses, however, excluded local production of alpha MSH and ACTH because neither Pomc nor putative Pomc pseudogene mRNAs were detected in the skin. Thus, 129;B6 Pomc null mutant mice produce abundant eumelanin hair pigmentation despite their congenital absence of melanocortin ligands. These results suggest that either the mouse melanocortin receptor 1 has sufficient basal activity to trigger and sustain eumelanogenesis in vivo or that redundant nonmelanocortin pathway(s) compensate for the melanocortin deficiency. Whereas the latter implies feedback control of melanogenesis, it is also possible that the two mechanisms operate jointly in hair follicles.

Transcriptional regulation of the human DNA methyltransferase 3A and 3B genes by Sp3 and Sp1 zinc finger proteins

The DNMT3A (DNA methyltransferase 3A) and DNMT3B genes encode putative de novo methyltransferases and show complex transcriptional regulation in the presence of three and two different promoters respectively. All promoters of DNMT3A and DNMT3B lack typical TATA sequences adjacent to their transcription start sites and contain several Sp1-binding sites. The importance of these Sp1-binding sites was demonstrated by using a GC-rich DNA-binding protein inhibitor, mithramycin A, i.e. on the basis of decrease in the promoter activities and mRNA expression levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B. Overexpression of Sp1 and Sp3 up-regulated the promoter activities of these two genes. The physical binding of Sp1 and Sp3 to DNMT3A and DNMT3B promoters was confirmed by a gel shift assay. Interestingly, Sp3 overexpression in HEK-293T cells (human embryonic kidney 293T cells) resulted in 3.3- and 4.0-fold increase in DNMT3A and DNMT3B mRNA expression levels respectively by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR, whereas Sp1 overexpression did not. Furthermore, an antisense oligonucleotide to Sp3 significantly decreased the mRNA levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B. These results indicate the functional importance of Sp proteins, particularly Sp3, in the regulation of DNMT3A and DNMT3B gene expression.

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K represses transcription from a cytosine/thymidine-rich element in the osteocalcin promoter

HnRNP K (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K) was biochemically purified from a screen of proteins co-purifying with binding activity to the osteocalcin promoter. We identify hnRNP K as a novel repressor of osteocalcin gene transcription. Overexpression of hnRNP K lowers the expression of osteocalcin mRNA by 5-fold. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assays demonstrate that overexpression of hnRNP K represses osteocalcin transcription from a CT (cytosine/thymidine)-rich element in the proximal promoter. Electrophoretic mobility-shift analysis reveals that recombinant hnRNP K binds to the CT-rich element, but binds ss (single-stranded), rather than ds (double-stranded) oligonucleotide probes. Accordingly, hnRNP K antibody can supershift a binding activity present in nuclear extracts using ss sense, but not antisense or ds oligonucleotides corresponding to the CT-rich -95 to -47 osteocalcin promoter. Importantly, addition of recombinant hnRNP K to ROS 17/2.8 nuclear extract disrupts formation of a DNA-protein complex on ds CT element oligonucleotides. This action is mutually exclusive with hnRNP K's ability to bind ss DNA. These results demonstrate that hnRNPK, although co-purified with a dsDNA-binding activity, does not itself bind dsDNA. Rather, hnRNP K represses osteocalcin gene transcription by inhibiting the formation of a transcriptional complex on the CT element of the osteocalcin promoter.

Zoledronic acid up-regulates bone sialoprotein expression in osteoblastic cells through Rho GTPase inhibition

Clinical practice reveals that osteoporotic women treated with BPs (bisphosphonates) show an increased bone mass density and a reduced risk of fractures. However, the mechanisms leading to these beneficial effects of BPs are still poorly understood. We hypothesized that ZOL (zoledronic acid), a potent third-generation BP, may induce the expression of proteins associated with the bone-forming potential of osteoblastic cells such as BSP (bone sialo-protein). Expression of BSP gene is up-regulated by hormones that promote bone formation and has been associated with de novo bone mineralization. Using real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR and Western-blot analysis, we demonstrated that ZOL increased BSP expression in Saos-2 osteoblast-like cells. Nuclear run-on and mRNA decay assays showed no effect at the transcriptional level but a stabilization of BSP transcripts in ZOL-treated cells. ZOL effect on BSP expression occurred through an interference with the mevalonate pathway since it was reversed by either mevalonate pathway intermediates or a Rho GTPase activator. We showed that ZOL impaired membrane localization of RhoA in Saos-2 cells indicating reduced prenylation of this protein. By the use of small interfering RNAs directed to RhoA and Rac1, we identified both Rho GTPases as negative regulators of BSP expression in Saos-2 cells. Our study demonstrates that ZOL induces BSP expression in osteoblast-like cells through inactivation of Rho GTPases and provides a potential mechanism to explain the favourable effects of ZOL treatment on bone mass and integrity.

Myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS) is involved in myoblast fusion through its regulation by protein kinase Calpha and calpain proteolytic cleavage

MARCKS (myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate) is a major cytoskeletal protein substrate of PKC (protein kinase C) whose cellular functions are still unclear. However numerous studies have implicated MARCKS in the stabilization of cytoskeletal structures during cell differentiation. The present study was performed to investigate the potential role of Ca(2+)-dependent proteinases (calpains) during myogenesis via proteolysis of MARCKS. It was first demonstrated that MARCKS is a calpain substrate in vitro. Then, the subcellular expression of MARCKS was examined during the myogenesis process. Under such conditions, there was a significant decrease in MARCKS expression associated with the appearance of a 55 kDa proteolytic fragment at the time of intense fusion. The addition of calpastatin peptide, a specific calpain inhibitor, induced a significant decrease in the appearance of this fragment. Interestingly, MARCKS proteolysis was dependent of its phosphorylation by the conventional PKCalpha. Finally, ectopic expression of MARCKS significantly decreased the myoblast fusion process, while reduced expression of the protein with antisense oligonucleotides increased the fusion. Altogether, these data demonstrate that MARCKS proteolysis is necessary for the fusion of myoblasts and that cleavage of the protein by calpains is involved in this regulation.

A proteome analysis of the arsenite response in cultured lung cells: evidence for in vitro oxidative stress-induced apoptosis

Arsenite is well documented as a chemotherapeutic agent capable of inducing cell death. However, the cellular response at the molecular level has not been studied extensively. In the present study, we provide for the first time a proteomic analysis of rat LECs (lung epithelial cells) treated with arsenite, with the aim of identifying defence proteins, probably expressed to protect the cells during the course of arsenic-induced apoptosis. Comparative proteome analysis was conducted on LECs and LECs treated with 40 microM arsenite to identify global changes in their protein expression profiles. Over 1000 protein spots were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis and visualized by silver staining. Seven proteins changed expression levels significantly and were identified by matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry and database searching. The proteins up-regulated were mostly HSPs (heat-shock proteins) and antioxidative stress proteins, including HSP70, aldose reductase, haem oxygenase-1, HSP27, ferritin light chain and alphaB-crystallin. The glycolytic enzyme glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase was down-regulated. Pretreatment with the thiol antioxidants glutathione or N-acetylcysteine before arsenite insult effectively abrogated the induction of these defence proteins and sustained cell viability, whereas antioxidants were protective only at earlier time points if they were added to cells after arsenite. Taken together, our results demonstrate that high levels of arsenite cause oxidative stress-induced apoptosis.

Expression of the gene for Dec2, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, is regulated by a molecular clock system

Dec2, a member of the basic helix-loop-helix superfamily, is a recently confirmed regulatory protein for the clockwork system. Transcripts of Dec2, as well as those of its related gene Dec1, exhibit a striking circadian oscillation in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and Dec2 inhibits transcription from the Per1 promoter induced by Clock/Bmal1 [Honma, Kawamoto, Takagi, Fujimoto, Sato, Noshiro, Kato and Honma (2002) Nature (London) 419, 841-844]. It is known that mammalian circadian rhythms are controlled by molecular clockwork systems based on negative-feedback loop(s), but the molecular mechanisms for the circadian regulation of Dec2 gene expression have not been clarified. We show here that transcription of the Dec2 gene is regulated by several clock molecules and a negative-feedback loop. Luciferase and gel retardation assays showed that expression of Dec2 was negatively regulated by binding of Dec2 or Dec1 to two CACGTG E-boxes in the Dec2 promoter. Forced expression of Clock/Bmal1 and Clock/Bmal2 markedly increased Dec2 mRNA levels, and up-regulated the transcription of the Dec2 gene through the CACGTG E-boxes. Like Dec, Cry and Per also suppressed Clock/Bmal-induced transcription from the Dec2 promoter. Moreover, the circadian expression of Dec2 transcripts was abolished in the kidney of Clock/Clock mutant mice. These findings suggest that the Clock/Bmal heterodimer enhances Dec2 transcription via the CACGTG E-boxes, whereas the induced transcription is suppressed by Dec2, which therefore must contribute to its own rhythmic expression. In addition, Cry and Per may also modulate Dec2 transcription.

Identification of acute myeloid leukemia patients with diminished expression of CD13 myeloid transcripts by competitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)

Normal myeloid cells of monocytic and granulocytic origin express the metallopeptidase cluster of differentiation 13 (CD13) on the surface just as leukemic blasts in most acute myeloid leukemias (AML). A minor percentage of AML patients, however, lack the surface expression of CD13 antigen. To study this difference in CD13 surface expression, specific CD13 mRNA from 44 individuals were quantified by competitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Absolute values for CD13 transcripts were normalised against glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) transcript levels to control for variations in sample preparation and mRNA degradation. By correlating normalised CD13 transcript levels and CD13 surface expression, a subgroup of AML patients was identified, having simultaneous diminished levels of myeloid CD13 transcripts and surface expression of the corresponding antigen. For this subgroup we suggest CD13/aminopeptidase N (APN) gene expression to be restricted primarily by limited amounts of transcripts. For the majority of AML patients determinants in addition to transcript levels must be involved in regulating CD13/APN gene expression.

Cloning and characterization of a putative mouse acetyl-CoA transporter cDNA

A mouse acetyl-CoA transporter (Acatn) cDNA was isolated by PCR cloning. Mouse Acatn exhibited 92% homology with human sequence on the basis of amino-acid sequence. The predicted gene product of Acatn is a 61 kDa hydrophobic protein with six to 10 transmembrane domains. Transfection of mouse Acatn cDNA into HeLa/GT3+ cells resulted in significant increase in the amount of 9-O-acetylated gangliosides, suggesting that Acatn does play an important role in the acetylation of gangliosides. Northern blot analysis of Acatn mRNA suggested that transcript of Acatn is widely distributed in various adult tissues. Expression of Acatn was found to be developmentally regulated, with high expression levels during early embryonic stages, and then there was a subsequent decrease in expression levels in the later embryonic stages.