Material basis and molecular mechanisms of Chaihuang Qingyi Huoxue Granule in the treatment of acute pancreatitis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking-based strategy

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze active compounds and signaling pathways of CH applying network pharmacology methods, and to additionally verify the molecular mechanism of CH in treating AP.

Materials and methods

Network pharmacology and molecular docking were firstly used to identify the active components of CH and its potential targets in the treatment of AP. The pancreaticobiliary duct was retrogradely injected with sodium taurocholate (3.5%) to create an acute pancreatitis (AP) model in rats. Histological examination, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot and TUNEL staining were used to determine the pathway and mechanism of action of CH in AP.

Results

Network pharmacological analysis identified 168 active compounds and 276 target proteins. In addition, there were 2060 targets associated with AP, and CH had 177 targets in common with AP. These shared targets, including STAT3, IL6, MYC, CDKN1A, AKT1, MAPK1, MAPK3, MAPK14, HSP90AA1, HIF1A, ESR1, TP53, FOS, and RELA, were recognized as core targets. Furthermore, we filtered out 5252 entries from the Gene Ontology(GO) and 186 signaling pathways from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG). Enrichment and network analyses of protein-protein interactions predicted that CH significantly affected the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which played a critical role in programmed cell death. The core components and key targets showed strong binding activity based on molecular docking results. Subsequently, experimental validation demonstrated that CH inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT in pancreatic tissues, promoted the apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells, and further alleviated inflammation and histopathological damage to the pancreas in AP rats.

Conclusion

Apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells can be enhanced and the inflammatory response can be reduced through the modulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, resulting in the amelioration of pancreatic disease.

Acute Pancreatitis Induced by COVID-19 Vaccine: A Systematic Review

Acute pancreatitis, marked by sudden inflammation of the pancreas, presents a complex spectrum of causative factors including gallstone obstruction, alcohol abuse, and viral infections. Recent studies have illuminated the emergence of vaccine-induced acute pancreatitis, notably associated with COVID-19 vaccinations, presenting diverse mechanisms ranging from direct viral-mediated injury to autoimmune reactions. Understanding this link is pivotal for public health, yet challenges persist in identifying and managing cases post-vaccination. Comprehensive literature reviews employing the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement outline the potential pathways and mechanisms leading to vaccine-induced pancreatitis, emphasizing the need for deeper investigations into underlying health conditions and modifications to vaccine components. Notably, the rare occurrences of vaccine-induced pancreatitis extend beyond COVID-19 vaccines, with reports also documenting associations with measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), human papillomavirus (HPV), and other viral vaccinations. Mechanistically, hypotheses such as molecular mimicry and immunologic injury have been proposed, necessitating ongoing vigilance and exploration. Regulatory agencies play a crucial role in monitoring and communicating vaccine safety concerns, emphasizing transparency to address potential risks and maintain public trust. Understanding and communicating these rare adverse events with transparency remain integral for informed vaccination policies and to allay concerns surrounding vaccine safety.

Acinar-ductal cell rearrangement drives branching morphogenesis of the murine pancreas in an IGF/PI3K-dependent manner

During organ formation, progenitor cells need to acquire different cell identities and organize themselves into distinct structural units. How these processes are coordinated and how tissue architecture(s) is preserved despite the dramatic cell rearrangements occurring in developing organs remain unclear. Here, we identified cellular rearrangements between acinar and ductal progenitors as a mechanism to drive branching morphogenesis in the pancreas while preserving the integrity of the acinar-ductal functional unit. Using ex vivo and in vivo mouse models, we found that pancreatic ductal cells form clefts by protruding and pulling on the acinar basement membrane, which leads to acini splitting. Newly formed acini remain connected to the bifurcated branches generated by ductal cell rearrangement. Insulin growth factor (IGF)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway finely regulates this process by controlling pancreatic ductal tissue fluidity, with a simultaneous impact on branching and cell fate acquisition. Together, our results explain how acinar structure multiplication and branch bifurcation are synchronized during pancreas organogenesis.

Ca2+ signals in pancreatic acinar cells in response to physiological stimulation in vivo

The exocrine pancreas secretes fluid and digestive enzymes in response to parasympathetic release of acetylcholine (ACh) via the vagus nerve and the gut hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). Both secretion of fluid and exocytosis of secretory granules containing enzymes and zymogens are dependent on an increase in the cytosolic [Ca²⁺ ] in acinar cells. It is thought that the specific spatiotemporal characteristics of the Ca²⁺ signals are fundamental for appropriate secretion and that these properties are disrupted in disease states in the pancreas. While extensive research has been performed to characterize Ca²⁺ signalling in acinar cells, this has exclusively been achieved in ex vivo preparations of exocrine cells, where it is difficult to mimic physiological conditions. Here we have developed a method to optically observe pancreatic acinar Ca²⁺ signals in vivo using a genetically expressed Ca²⁺ indicator and imaged with multi-photon microscopy in live animals. In vivo, acinar cells exhibited baseline activity in fasted animals, which was dependent on CCK1 receptors (CCK1Rs). Both stimulation of intrinsic nervous input and administration of systemic CCK induced oscillatory activity in a proportion of the cells, but the maximum frequencies were vastly different. Upon feeding, oscillatory activity was also observed, which was dependent on CCK1Rs. No evidence of a vago-vagal reflex mediating the effects of CCK was observed. Our in vivo method revealed the spatial and temporal profile of physiologically evoked Ca²⁺ signals, which will provide new insights into future studies of the mechanisms underlying exocrine physiology and that are disrupted in pathological conditions. KEY POINTS: In the exocrine pancreas, the spatiotemporal properties of Ca²⁺ signals are fundamentally important for the appropriate stimulation of secretion by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and gut hormone cholecystokinin. These characteristics were previously defined in ex vivo studies. Here we report the spatiotemporal characteristics of Ca²⁺ signals in vivo in response to physiological stimulation in a mouse engineered to express a Ca²⁺ indicator in acinar cells. Specific Ca²⁺ 'signatures' probably important for stimulating secretion are evoked in vivo in fasted animals, by feeding, neural stimulation and cholecystokinin administration. The Ca²⁺ signals are probably the result of the direct action of ACh and CCK on acinar cells and not indirectly through a vago-vagal reflex.

IRAG2 Interacts with IP3-Receptor Types 1, 2, and 3 and Regulates Intracellular Ca2+ in Murine Pancreatic Acinar Cells

The inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor-associated 2 (IRAG2) is also known as Jaw1 or lymphoid-restricted membrane protein (LRMP) and shares homology with the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor-associated cGMP kinase substrate 1 (IRAG1). IRAG1 interacts with inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP₃ receptors /IP₃R) via its coiled-coil domain and modulates Ca²⁺ release from intracellular stores. Due to the homology of IRAG1 and IRAG2, especially in its coiled-coil domain, it is possible that IRAG2 has similar interaction partners like IRAG1 and that IRAG2 also modulates intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling. In our study, we localized IRAG2 in pancreatic acinar cells of the exocrine pancreas, and we investigated the interaction of IRAG2 with IP₃ receptors and its impact on intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling and exocrine pancreatic function, like amylase secretion. We detected the interaction of IRAG2 with different subtypes of IP₃R and altered Ca²⁺ release in pancreatic acinar cells from mice lacking IRAG2. IRAG2 deficiency decreased basal levels of intracellular Ca²⁺, suggesting that IRAG2 leads to activation of IP₃R under unstimulated basal conditions. Moreover, we observed that loss of IRAG2 impacts the secretion of amylase. Our data, therefore, suggest that IRAG2 modulates intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling, which regulates exocrine pancreatic function.

miR-340-5p inhibits pancreatic acinar cell inflammation and apoptosis via targeted inhibition of HMGB1

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common gastrointestinal disease that affects 1 million individuals worldwide. Inflammation and apoptosis are considered to be important pathogenic mechanisms of AP, and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has been shown to play a particularly important role in the etiology of this disease. MicroRNAs (miRs) are emerging as critical regulators of gene expression and, as such, they represent a promising area of therapeutic target identification and development for a variety of diseases, including AP. Using the online database query (microRNA.org), the current study identified a site in the 3' untranslated region of HMGB1 mRNA that was a viable target for miR-340-5p. The present study aimed to investigate the association between miR-340-5p and HMGB1 expression in pancreatic acinar cells following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment by performing luciferase, western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR assays. The results suggest that miR-340-5p attenuates the induction of HMGB1 by LPS, thereby inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis via blunted activation of Toll-like receptor 4 and enhanced AKT signaling. Thus, the therapeutic application of miR-340-5p may be a useful strategy in AP via upregulation of HMGB1 and subsequent promotion of inflammation and apoptosis.

Emodin inhibits the progression of acute pancreatitis via regulation of lncRNA TUG1 and exosomal lncRNA TUG1

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal diseases and has no specific treatment. It has been shown that dysfunction of pancreatic acinar cells can lead to AP progression. Emodin is a natural product, which can alleviate the symptoms of AP. However, the mechanism by which emodin regulates the function of pancreatic acinar cells remains unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which emodin modulates the function of pancreatic acinar cells. To mimic AP in vitro, pancreatic acinar cells were cotreated with caerulein and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Exosomes were isolated using the ExoQuick precipitation kit. Western blot analysis, Nanosight Tracking analysis and transmission electron microscopy were performed to detect the efficiency of exosome separation. Gene expression was detected by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. The levels of IL‑1β and TNF‑α were detected by ELISA. The data indicated that emodin significantly decreased the levels of IL‑1β and TNF‑α in the supernatant samples derived from AR42J cells cotreated with caerulein and LPS. In addition, emodin significantly promoted the proliferation of AR42J cells cotreated with caerulein and LPS, and inhibited apoptosis, while the effect of emodin was reversed by long non‑coding (lnc)RNA taurine upregulated 1 (TUG1) overexpression. The expression level of TUG1 in AR42J cells or exosomes derived from AR42J cells was significantly increased following treatment of the cells with LPS and caerulein, while this effect was notably reversed by emodin treatment. In addition, exosomes derived from caerulein and LPS cotreated AR42J cells inhibited the differentiation and anti‑inflammatory function of regulatory T cells, while treatment of the cells with emodin significantly decreased this effect. In conclusion, the data indicated that emodin inhibited the induction of inflammation in AR42J cells by regulating the expression of cellular and exosomal lncRNA. Therefore, emodin may be used as a potential agent for the treatment of AP.

The roles of calcium and ATP in the physiology and pathology of the exocrine pancreas

This review deals with the roles of calcium ions and ATP in the control of the normal functions of the different cell types in the exocrine pancreas as well as the roles of these molecules in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Repetitive rises in the local cytosolic calcium ion concentration in the apical part of the acinar cells not only activate exocytosis but also, via an increase in the intramitochondrial calcium ion concentration, stimulate the ATP formation that is needed to fuel the energy-requiring secretion process. However, intracellular calcium overload, resulting in a global sustained elevation of the cytosolic calcium ion concentration, has the opposite effect of decreasing mitochondrial ATP production, and this initiates processes that lead to necrosis. In the last few years it has become possible to image calcium signaling events simultaneously in acinar, stellate, and immune cells in intact lobules of the exocrine pancreas. This has disclosed processes by which these cells interact with each other, particularly in relation to the initiation and development of acute pancreatitis. By unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying this disease, several promising therapeutic intervention sites have been identified. This provides hope that we may soon be able to effectively treat this often fatal disease.

Pancreatogenic Diabetes: Triggering Effects of Alcohol and HIV

Multiorgan failure may not be completely resolved among people living with HIV despite HAART use. Although the chances of organ dysfunction may be relatively low, alcohol may potentiate HIV-induced toxic effects in the organs of alcohol-abusing, HIV-infected individuals. The pancreas is one of the most implicated organs, which is manifested as diabetes mellitus or pancreatic cancer. Both alcohol and HIV may trigger pancreatitis, but the combined effects have not been explored. The aim of this review is to explore the literature for understanding the mechanisms of HIV and alcohol-induced pancreatotoxicity. We found that while premature alcohol-inducing zymogen activation is a known trigger of alcoholic pancreatitis, HIV entry through C-C chemokine receptor type 5(CCR5)into pancreatic acinar cells may also contribute to pancreatitis in people living with HIV (PLWH). HIV proteins induce oxidative and ER stresses, causing necrosis. Furthermore, infiltrative immune cells induce necrosis on HIV-containing acinar cells. When necrotic products interact with pancreatic stellate cells, they become activated, leading to the release of both inflammatory and profibrotic cytokines and resulting in pancreatitis. Effective therapeutic strategies should block CCR5 and ameliorate alcohol's effects on acinar cells.

Proinflammatory cytokines inhibit thiamin uptake by human and mouse pancreatic acinar cells: involvement of transcriptional mechanism(s)

Thiamin (vitamin B1) plays critical roles in normal metabolism and function of all mammalian cells. Pancreatic acinar cells (PACs) import thiamin from circulation via specific carrier-mediated uptake that involves thiamin transporter-1 and -2 (THTR-1 and -2; products of SLC19A2 and SLC19A3, respectively). Our aim in this study was to investigate the effect(s) of proinflammatory cytokines on thiamin uptake by PACs. We used human primary (h)PACs, PAC 266-6 cells, and mice in vivo as models in the investigations. First, we examined the level of expression of THTR-1 and -2 mRNA in pancreatic tissues of patients with chronic pancreatitis and observed severe reduction in their expression compared with normal control subjects. Exposing hPACs and PAC 266-6 to proinflammatory cytokines (hyper IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) was found to lead to a significant inhibition in thiamin uptake. Focusing on hyper-IL-6 (which also inhibited thiamin uptake by primary mouse PACs), the inhibition in thiamin uptake was found to be associated with significant reduction in THTR-1 and -2 proteins and mRNA expression as well as in activity of the SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 promoters; it was also associated with reduction in level of expression of the transcription factor Sp1 (which is required for activity of these promoters). Finally, blocking the intracellular Stat3 signaling pathway was found to lead to a significant reversal in the inhibitory effect of hyper IL-6 on thiamin uptake by PAC 266-6. These results show that exposure of PACs to proinflammatory cytokines negatively impacts thiamin uptake via (at least in part) transcriptional mechanism(s).NEW & NOTEWORTHY Findings of the current study demonstrate, for the first time, that exposure of pancreatic acinar cells to proinflammatory cytokines (including hyper IL-6) cause significant inhibition in vitamin B1 (thiamin; a micronutrient that is essential for normal cellular energy metabolism) and that this effect is mediated at the level of transcription of the thiamin transporter genes SLC19A2 and SLC19A3.

Experimental Acute Pancreatitis Models: History, Current Status, and Role in Translational Research

Acute pancreatitis is a potentially severe inflammatory disease that may be associated with a substantial morbidity and mortality. Currently there is no specific treatment for the disease, which indicates an ongoing demand for research into its pathogenesis and development of new therapeutic strategies. Due to the unpredictable course of acute pancreatitis and relatively concealed anatomical site in the retro-peritoneum, research on the human pancreas remains challenging. As a result, for over the last 100 years studies on the pathogenesis of this disease have heavily relied on animal models. This review aims to summarize different animal models of acute pancreatitis from the past to present and discuss their main characteristics and applications. It identifies key studies that have enhanced our current understanding of the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis and highlights the instrumental role of animal models in translational research for developing novel therapies.

Docosahexaenoic Acid Induces Expression of NAD(P)H: Quinone Oxidoreductase and Heme Oxygenase-1 through Activation of Nrf2 in Cerulein-Stimulated Pancreatic Acinar Cells

Oxidative stress is a major risk factor for acute pancreatitis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediate expression of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) which reflects the severity of acute pancreatitis. The nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway is activated to induce the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) as a cytoprotective response to oxidative stress. In addition, binding of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) to Nrf2 promotes degradation of Nrf2. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—an omega-3 fatty acid—exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Oxidized omega-3 fatty acids react with Keap1 to induce Nrf2-regulated gene expression. In this study, we investigated whether DHA reduces ROS levels and inhibits IL-6 expression via Nrf2 signaling in pancreatic acinar (AR42J) cells stimulated with cerulein, as an in vitro model of acute pancreatitis. The cells were pretreated with or without DHA for 1 h and treated with cerulein (10⁻⁸ M) for 1 (ROS levels, protein levels of NQO1, HO-1, pNrf2, Nrf2, and Keap1), 6 (IL-6 mRNA expression), and 24 h (IL-6 protein level in the medium). Our results showed that DHA upregulates the expression of NQO1 and HO-1 in cerulein-stimulated AR42J cells by promoting phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Nrf2. DHA increased interaction between Keap1 and Nrf2 in AR42J cells, which may increase Nrf2 activity by inhibiting Keap1-mediated sequestration of Nrf2. In addition, DHA-induced expression of NQO1 and HO-1 is related to reduction of ROS and IL-6 levels in cerulein-stimulated AR42J cells. In conclusion, DHA inhibits ROS-mediated IL-6 expression by upregulating Nrf2-mediated expression of NQO1 and HO-1 in cerulein-stimulated pancreatic acinar cells. DHA may exert positive modulatory effects on acute pancreatitis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine production by activating Nrf2 signaling in pancreatic acinar cells.

Calcium Signaling in Pancreatic Immune Cells In situ

Immune cells were identified in intact live mouse pancreatic lobules and their Ca²⁺ signals, evoked by various agents, characterized and compared with the simultaneously recorded Ca²⁺ signals in neighboring acinar and stellate cells. Immunochemistry in the live lobules indicated that the pancreatic immune cells most likely are macrophages. In the normal pancreas the density of these cells is very low, but induction of acute pancreatitis (AP), by a combination of ethanol and fatty acids, markedly increased the number of the immune cells. The principal agent eliciting Ca²⁺ signals in the pancreatic immune cells was ATP, but these cells also frequently produced Ca²⁺ signals in response to acetylcholine and to high concentrations of bradykinin. Pharmacological studies, using specific purinergic agonists and antagonists, indicated that the ATP-elicited Ca²⁺ signals were mediated by both P2Y1 and P2Y13 receptors. The pancreatic immune cells were not electrically excitable and the Ca²⁺ signals generated by ATP were primarily due to release of Ca²⁺ from internal stores followed by store-operated Ca²⁺ entry through Ca²⁺ release-activated Ca²⁺ channels. The ATP-induced intracellular Ca²⁺ liberation was dependent on both IP₃ generation and IP₃ receptors. We propose that the ATP-elicited Ca²⁺ signal generation in the pancreatic immune cells is likely to play an important role in the severe inflammatory response to the primary injury of the acinar cells that occurs in AP.

Posttranscriptional regulation of thiamin transporter-1 expression by microRNA-200a-3p in pancreatic acinar cells

The water-soluble vitamin B1 (thiamin) plays essential roles in normal metabolism and function of all human/mammalian cells, including the pancreatic acinar cells (PACs). PACs obtain thiamin from their surrounding circulation via transport across the plasma membrane, a process that is mediated by thiamin transporter (THTR)-1 and THTR-2. We have previously characterized different aspects of thiamin uptake by mouse and human primary PACs, but little is known about posttranscriptional regulation of the uptake event. We addressed this by focusing on the predominant thiamin transporter THTR-1 (encoded by SLC19A2 gene) in PACs. Transfecting pmirGLO-SLC19A2 3'-untranslated region (UTR) into mouse-derived PAC 266-6 cells leads to a significant reduction in luciferase activity compared with cells transfected with empty vector. Subjecting the SLC19A2 3'-UTR to different in silico algorithms identified multiple putative microRNA binding sites in this region. Focusing on miR-200a-3p (since it is highly expressed in mouse and human pancreas), we found that transfecting PAC 266-6 and human primary PACs (hPACs) with mimic miR-200a-3p leads to a significant inhibition of THTR-1 expression (both protein and mRNA levels) and in thiamin uptake. In contrast, transfection by miR-200a-3p inhibitor leads to an increase in THTR-1 expression and thiamin uptake. Additionally, truncating the region carrying miR-200a-3p binding site in SLC19A2 3'-UTR and mutating the binding site lead to abrogation in the inhibitory effect of this microRNA on luciferase activity in PAC 266-6. These results demonstrate that expression of THTR-1 and thiamin uptake in PACs is subject to posttranscriptional regulation by microRNAs.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The findings of this study show, for the first time, that the membrane transporter of vitamin B1, i.e., thiamin transporter-1 (THTR-1), is subject to regulation by microRNAs (specifically miR-200a-3p) in mouse and human primary pancreatic acinar cells (PACs). The results also show that this posttranscriptional regulation has functional consequences on the ability of PACs to take in the essential micronutrient thiamin.

Downregulated microRNA-92a-3p inhibits apoptosis and promotes proliferation of pancreatic acinar cells in acute pancreatitis by enhancing KLF2 expression

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is known worldwide as one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases, prospectively leading to hospitalization coupled with increasing incidence. Several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to be potential biomarkers for pancreatitis. In this study, we verified the hypothesis that miR-92a-3p is implicated in the development of AP by controlling the proliferation and apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells (PACs) through the modulation of the Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) and inflammatory factors in rats. Initially, we established a rat model of AP and extracted the pancreatic tissues. Then, the positive rate of KLF2 was measured using immunohistochemistry, and the expression of the related genes was determined by rReverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay and flow cytometry, and the contents of inflammatory factors were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. AP rats presented with increased miR-92a-3p expression as well as decreased KLF2 expression in PACs. The downregulation of miR-92a-3p and overexpression of KLF2 led to decline in expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), survivin, tumor necrosis factor-α, and Bax as well as extent of NF-κB phosphorylation, contents of inflammatory factors, and apoptosis rate of PACs, but to increased KLF2 and B-cell lymphoma-2 levels and proliferation rate of PACs. Collectively, the data obtained from the present study demonstrated that reduced miR-92a-3p expression may relieve AP through its suppressive effects on cell apoptosis, inflammatory factors, and facilitatory effects on cell proliferation by enhancing KLF2 expression.

LAP-like non-canonical autophagy and evolution of endocytic vacuoles in pancreatic acinar cells

Activation of trypsinogen (formation of trypsin) inside the pancreas is an early pathological event in the development of acute pancreatitis. In our previous studies we identified the activation of trypsinogen within endocytic vacuoles (EVs), cellular organelles that appear in pancreatic acinar cells treated with the inducers of acute pancreatitis. EVs are formed as a result of aberrant compound exocytosis and subsequent internalization of post-exocytic structures. These organelles can be up to 12 μm in diameter and can be actinated (i.e. coated with F-actin). Notably, EVs can undergo intracellular rupture and fusion with the plasma membrane, providing trypsin with access to cytoplasmic and extracellular targets. Unraveling the mechanisms involved in cellular processing of EVs is an interesting cell biological challenge with potential benefits for understanding acute pancreatitis. In this study we have investigated autophagy of EVs and discovered that it involves a non-canonical LC3-conjugation mechanism, reminiscent in its properties to LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP); in both processes LC3 was recruited to single, outer organellar membranes. Trypsinogen activation peptide was observed in approximately 55% of LC3-coated EVs indicating the relevance of the described process to the early cellular events of acute pancreatitis. We also investigated relationships between actination and non-canonical autophagy of EVs and concluded that these processes represent sequential steps in the evolution of EVs. Our study expands the known roles of LAP and indicates that, in addition to its well-established functions in phagocytosis and macropinocytosis, LAP is also involved in the processing of post-exocytic organelles in exocrine secretory cells.

ABBREVIATIONS

AP: acute pancreatitis; CCK: cholecystokinin; CLEM: correlative light and electron microscopy; DPI: diphenyleneiodonium; EV: endocytic vacuole; LAP: LC3-associate phagocytosis; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; PACs: pancreatic acinar cells; PFA: paraformaldehyde; PtdIns3K: phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; PtdIns3P: phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate; Res: resveratrol; TAP: trypsinogen activation peptide; TEM: transmission electron microscopy; TLC-S: taurolithocholic acid 3-sulfate; TRD: Dextran Texas Red 3000 MW Neutral; ZGs: zymogen granules.

Knockout of the Mitochondrial Calcium Uniporter Strongly Suppresses Stimulus-Metabolism Coupling in Pancreatic Acinar Cells but Does Not Reduce Severity of Experimental Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a frequent disease that lacks specific drug treatment. Unravelling the molecular mechanisms of acute pancreatitis is essential for the development of new therapeutics. Several inducers of acute pancreatitis trigger sustained Ca²⁺ increases in the cytosol and mitochondria of pancreatic acinar cells. The mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) mediates mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake that regulates bioenergetics and plays an important role in cell survival, damage and death. Aberrant Ca²⁺ signaling and mitochondrial damage in pancreatic acinar cells have been implicated in the initiation of acute pancreatitis. The primary aim of this study was to assess the involvement of the MCU in experimental acute pancreatitis. We found that pancreatic acinar cells from MCU^-/- mice display dramatically reduced mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake. This is consistent with the drastic changes of stimulus-metabolism coupling, manifested by the reduction of mitochondrial NADH/FAD⁺ responses to cholecystokinin and in the decrease of cholecystokinin-stimulated oxygen consumption. However, in three experimental models of acute pancreatitis (induced by caerulein, taurolithocholic acid 3-sulfate or palmitoleic acid plus ethanol), MCU knockout failed to reduce the biochemical and histological changes characterizing the severity of local and systemic damage. A possible explanation of this surprising finding is the redundancy of damaging mechanisms activated by the inducers of acute pancreatitis.

Anisodamine alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced pancreatic acinar cell injury through NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway

Purpose: Anisodamine (An) has anti-inflammatory effects, but its role in acute pancreatitis is still unknown. This study aimed to explore the action mechanism of An pretreatment in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pancreatic acinar cells, hoping to provide a research basis for the disease treatment.Materials and methods: Pancreatic acinar cells were pretreated with An at different concentrations and then induced by LPS. The viability and apoptosis of the treated cells were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry. The releases of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), Caspase-1, p65, and inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα) in the treated cells were detected by Western blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay.Results: LPS promoted apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells, suppressed cell viability, increased TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-18 releases and the expression levels of TXNIP, ASC, NLRP3, Caspase-1, p-p65, and p-IκBα, however, such effects of LPS could be alleviated by An pretreatment with the strongest effect when the concentration of An was set at 100 μg/mL. Moreover, overexpressed NLRP3 aggravated the effects of LPS in pancreatic acinar cells, which could be reversed by pretreatment of 100 μg/mL An.Conclusion: An pretreatment attenuated LPS-induced apoptosis and inflammatory response of pancreatic acinar cells through suppressing NLRP3 and inactivating NF-κB signaling pathway, thus, it could be explored as a potential therapy for treating acute pancreatitis.

Chrm3 protects against acinar cell necrosis by stabilizing caspase-8 expression in severe acute pancreatitis mice model

Acinar cells in acute pancreatitis (AP) die through apoptosis and necrosis, the impacts of which are quite different. Early clinical interference strategies on preventing the progress of AP to severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) are the elimination of inflammation response and inhibition of necrosis. Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3 was encoded by Chrm3 gene. It is one of the best-characterized receptors of pancreatic β cells and regulates insulin secretion, but its function in AP remains unclear. In this study, we explored the function of Chrm3 gene in the regulation of cell death in l-arginine-induced SAP animal models. We found that Chrm3 was upregulated in pancreatitis, and we further confirmed the localization of Chrm3 resided in both pancreatic islets and acinar cell membranes. The reduction of Chrm3 decreased the pathological lesion of SAP and reduced amylase activities in serum. Consistently, Chrm3 can suppress acinar cells necrosis markedly, but has no effect on regulating apoptosis after l-arginine treatment. It was shown that Chrm3 attenuated acinar cells necrosis at least in part by stabilizing caspase-8. Thus, this study indicates that Chrm3 is critical participants in SAP, and regulation of Chrm3 expression might be a useful therapeutic strategy for preventing pathologic necrosis.

Pyridoxine and pancreatic acinar cells: transport physiology and effect on gene expression profile

Pyridoxine (vitamin B₆), an essential micronutrient for normal cell physiology, plays an important role in the function of the exocrine pancreas. Pancreatic acinar cells (PACs) obtain vitamin B₆ from circulation, but little is known about the mechanism involved in the uptake process; limited information also exists on the effect of pyridoxine availability on the gene expression profile in these cells. We addressed both these issues in the current investigation using mouse-derived pancreatic acinar 266-6 cells (PAC 266-6) and human primary PACs (hPACs; obtained from organ donors), together with appropriate physiological and molecular (RNA-Seq) approaches. The results showed [³H]pyridoxine uptake to be 1) pH and temperature (but not Na⁺) dependent, 2) saturable as a function of concentration, 3) cis-inhibited by unlabeled pyridoxine and its close structural analogs, 4) trans-stimulated by unlabeled pyridoxine, 5) regulated by an intracellular Ca²⁺/calmodulin-mediated pathway, 6) adaptively-regulated by extracellular substrate (pyridoxine) availability, and 7) negatively impacted by exposure to cigarette smoke extract. Vitamin B₆ availability was found (by means of RNA-Seq) to significantly (FDR < 0.05) modulate the expression profile of many genes in PAC 266-6 cells (including those that are relevant to pancreatic health and development). These studies demonstrate, for the first time, the involvement of a regulatable and specific carrier-mediated mechanism for pyridoxine uptake by PACs; the results also show that pyridoxine availability exerts profound effects on the gene expression profile in mammalian PACs.

Oxidative stress induces apoptosis via calpain- and caspase-3-mediated cleavage of ATM in pancreatic acinar cells

Oxidative stress-induced DNA cleavage and apoptosis in pancreatic acinar cells has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis. Thus, an efficient DNA repair process is key to prevention of apoptotic pancreatic acinar cell death. Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), a sensor of DNA breaks, functions by recruiting DNA repair proteins to initiate the DNA repair process. In the present study, we investigated whether H₂O₂ produced by the action of glucose oxidase on α-D-glucose (G/GO) induces apoptosis in pancreatic acinar AR42J cells through an alteration of the level of ATM. As a result, G/GO induced apoptosis by promoting a loss of cell viability, increase in Bax, decrease in Bcl-2, cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and fragmentation of DNA. In addition, ATM cleavage along with elevated levels of calpain and caspase-3 activity was induced by G/GO. By using ATM siRNA, we demonstrated that reduction in ATM levels enhanced G/GO-induced apoptosis. Moreover, inhibition of calpain activity by calpeptin or calpastatin, or by inhibition of caspase-3 with z-DEVD, suppressed G/GO-induced apoptosis and ATM cleavage. Collectively, these findings suggest that proteolysis of ATM is the underlying mechanism of apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells caused by exposure to oxidative stress.

Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Ca2+ Signaling Pathways in Cerulein-Treated Pancreatic Acinar Cells, Determined by RNA-Sequencing Analysis

Intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis is commonly disrupted in acute pancreatitis. Sustained Ca²⁺ release from internal stores in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs), mediated by inositol triphosphate receptor (IP3R) and the ryanodine receptor (RyR), plays a key role in the initiation and propagation of acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis induced by cerulein, an analogue of cholecystokinin, causes premature activation of digestive enzymes and enhanced accumulation of cytokines and Ca²⁺ in the pancreas and, as such, it is a good model of acute pancreatitis. High concentrations of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) inhibit inflammatory signaling pathways and cytokine expression in PACs treated with cerulein. In the present study, we determined the effect of DHA on key regulators of Ca²⁺ signaling in cerulein-treated pancreatic acinar AR42 J cells. The results of RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis showed that cerulein up-regulates the expression of IP3R1 and RyR2 genes, and that pretreatment with DHA blocks these effects. The results of real-time PCR confirmed that DHA inhibits cerulein-induced IP3R1 and RyR2 gene expression, and demonstrated that DHA pre-treatment decreases the expression of the Relb gene, which encodes a component of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) transcriptional activator complex, and the c-fos gene, which encodes a component of activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcriptional activator complex. Taken together, DHA inhibits mRNA expression of IP3R1, RyR2, Relb, and c-fos, which is related to Ca²⁺ network in cerulein-stimulated PACs.

Effect of bacterial flagellin on thiamin uptake by human and mouse pancreatic acinar cells: inhibition mediated at the level of transcription of thiamin transporters 1 and 2

Thiamin (vitamin B₁) is essential for normal cellular metabolism and function. Pancreatic acinar cells (PACs) obtain thiamin from the circulation via a specific carrier-mediated process that involves the plasma membrane thiamin transporters 1 and 2 (THTR-1 and THTR-2; products of SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 genes, respectively). There is nothing known about the effect of bacterial products/toxins on thiamin uptake by PACs. We addressed this issue in the present investigation by examining the effect of bacterial flagellin on physiological and molecular parameters of thiamin uptake by PACs. We used human primary PACs, mice in vivo, and cultured mouse-derived pancreatic acinar 266-6 cells in our investigation. The results showed that exposure of human primary PACs to flagellin led to a significant inhibition in thiamin uptake; this inhibition was associated with a significant decrease in expression of THTR-1 and -2 at the protein and mRNA levels. These findings were confirmed in mice in vivo as well as in cultured 266-6 cells. Subsequent studies showed that flagellin exposure markedly suppressed the activity of the SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 promoters and that this effect involved the Sp1 regulatory factor. Finally, knocking down Toll-like receptor 5 by use of gene-specific siRNA was found to lead to abrogation in the inhibitory effect of flagellin on PAC thiamin uptake. These results show, for the first time, that exposure of PACs to flagellin negatively impacts the physiological and molecular parameters of thiamin uptake and that this effect is mediated at the level of transcription of the SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 genes. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study demonstrates, for the first time, that prolonged exposure of pancreatic acinar cells to flagellin inhibits uptake of vitamin B₁, a micronutrient that is essential for energy metabolism and ATP production. This effect is mediated at the level of transcription of the SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 genes and involves the Sp1 transcription factor.

F1F0-ATP Synthase Inhibitory Factor 1 in the Normal Pancreas and in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Effects on Bioenergetics, Invasion and Proliferation

F1F0-ATP synthase inhibitory factor 1 (IF1) inhibits the reverse mode of F1F0-ATP synthase, and therefore protects cellular ATP content at the expense of accelerated loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). There is considerable variability in IF1 expression and its influence on bioenergetics between different cell types. High levels of IF1 in a number of cancers have been linked to increased glycolysis, resistance to cell death, increased migration and proliferation. However, neither the expression nor role of IF1 in the normal pancreas or in pancreatic cancer has been characterized. In this study, we found that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients express higher levels of IF1 in cancerous cells than in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs). PDAC cell lines have a higher IF1 content and IF1/ATP synthase ratio than PACs. The observed differences are consistent with the ability of the respective cell types to maintain ΔΨm and ATP levels in conditions of chemical hypoxia. Acinar cells and PDAC cells preferentially express different IF1 isoforms. Both knockdown and knockout of IF1 in the PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell line modified cellular bioenergetics and decreased migration, invasion and proliferation suggesting the putative importance of IF1 for PDAC growth and metastasis.

Intracellular rupture, exocytosis and actin interaction of endocytic vacuoles in pancreatic acinar cells: initiating events in acute pancreatitis

Key points

Giant trypsin‐containing endocytic vacuoles are formed in pancreatic acinar cells stimulated with inducers of acute pancreatitis.

F‐actin envelops endocytic vacuoles and regulates their properties.

Endocytic vacuoles can rupture and release their content into the cytosol of acinar cells.

Endocytic vacuoles can fuse with the plasma membrane of acinar cells and exocytose their content.

Abstract

Intrapancreatic activation of trypsinogen is an early event in and hallmark of the development of acute pancreatitis. Endocytic vacuoles, which form by disconnection and transport of large post‐exocytic structures, are the only resolvable sites of the trypsin activity in live pancreatic acinar cells. In the present study, we characterized the dynamics of endocytic vacuole formation induced by physiological and pathophysiological stimuli and visualized a prominent actin coat that completely or partially surrounded endocytic vacuoles. An inducer of acute pancreatitis taurolithocholic acid 3‐sulphate and supramaximal concentrations of cholecystokinin triggered the formation of giant (more than 2.5 μm in diameter) endocytic vacuoles. We discovered and characterized the intracellular rupture of endocytic vacuoles and the fusion of endocytic vacuoles with basal and apical regions of the plasma membrane. Experiments with specific protease inhibitors suggest that the rupture of endocytic vacuoles is probably not induced by trypsin or cathepsin B. Perivacuolar filamentous actin (observed on the surface of ∼30% of endocytic vacuoles) may play a stabilizing role by preventing rupture of the vacuoles and fusion of the vacuoles with the plasma membrane. The rupture and fusion of endocytic vacuoles allow trypsin to escape the confinement of a membrane‐limited organelle, gain access to intracellular and extracellular targets, and initiate autodigestion of the pancreas, comprising a crucial pathophysiological event.

Giant trypsin‐containing endocytic vacuoles are formed in pancreatic acinar cells stimulated with inducers of acute pancreatitis.

F‐actin envelops endocytic vacuoles and regulates their properties.

Endocytic vacuoles can rupture and release their content into the cytosol of acinar cells.

Endocytic vacuoles can fuse with the plasma membrane of acinar cells and exocytose their content.

Adaptive regulation of pancreatic acinar mitochondrial thiamin pyrophosphate uptake process: possible involvement of epigenetic mechanism(s)

The essentiality of thiamin stems from its roles as a cofactor [mainly in the form of thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP)] in critical metabolic reactions including oxidative energy metabolism and reduction of cellular oxidative stress. Like other mammalian cells, pancreatic acinar cells (PAC) obtain thiamin from their surroundings and convert it to TPP; mitochondria then take up TPP by a carrier-mediated process that involves the mitochondrial TPP (MTPP) transporter (MTPPT; product of SLC25A19 gene). Previous studies have characterized different physiological/biological aspects of the MTPP uptake process, but little is known about its possible adaptive regulation. We addressed this issue using pancreatic acinar 266-6 cells (PAC 266-6) maintained under thiamin-deficient (DEF) and oversupplemented (OS) conditions, as well as thiamin-DEF and -OS transgenic mice carrying the SLC25A19 promoter. We found that maintaining PAC 266-6 under the thiamin-DEF condition leads to a significant induction in mitochondrial [³H]TPP uptake, as well as in the level of expression of the MTPPT protein and mRNA compared with thiamin-OS cells. Similar findings were observed in mitochondria from thiamin-DEF mice compared with thiamin-OS. Subsequently, we demonstrated that adaptive regulation of MTTP protein was partly mediated via transcriptional mechanism(s) via studies with PAC 266-6 transfected with the SLC25A19 promoter and transgenic mice carrying the SLC25A19 promoter. This transcriptional regulation appeared to be, at least in part, mediated via epigenetic mechanism(s) involving histone modifications. These studies report, for the first time, that the PAC mitochondrial TPP uptake process is adaptively regulated by the prevailing thiamin level and that this regulation is transcriptionally mediated and involves epigenetic mechanism(s).NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings show, for the first time, that the mitochondrial thiamin pyrophosphate (MTPP) uptake process is adaptively regulated by the prevailing thiamin level in pancreatic acinar cells and this regulation is mediated, at least in part, by transcriptional and epigenetic mechanism(s) affecting the SLC25A19 promoter.

Molecular Ghrelin System in the Pancreatic Acinar Cells: The Role of the Polypeptide, Caerulein and Sensory Nerves

Ghrelin (GHRL) is an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). Experimental studies showed that GHRL protects the stomach and pancreas against acute damage, but the effect of GHRL on pancreatic acinar cells was still undetermined. Aim: To investigate the effect of GHRL and caerulein on the functional ghrelin system in pancreatic acinar cells taking into account the role of sensory nerves (SN). Methods: Experiments were carried out on isolated pancreatic acinar cells and AR42J cells. Before acinar cells isolation, GHRL was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 µg/kg to rats with intact SN or with capsaicin deactivation of SN (CDSN). After isolation, pancreatic acinar cells were incubated in caerulein-free or caerulein containing solution. AR42J cells were incubated under basal conditions and stimulated with caerulein, GHRL or a combination of the above. Results: Incubation of isolated acinar cells with caerulein inhibited GHS-R and GHRL expression at the level of mRNA and protein in those cells. Either in rats with intact SN or with CDSN, administration of GHRL before isolation of acinar cells increased expression of GHRL and GHS-R in those cells and reversed the caerulein-induced reduction in expression of those parameters. Similar upregulation of GHS-R and GHRL was observed after administration of GHRL in AR42J cells. Conclusions: GHRL stimulates its own expression and expression of its receptor in isolated pancreatic acinar cells and AR42J cells on the positive feedback pathway. This mechanism seems to participate in the pancreatoprotective effect of GHRL in the course of acute pancreatitis.

Photodynamic Physiology-Photonanomanipulations in Cellular Physiology with Protein Photosensitizers

Singlet oxygen generated in a type II photodynamic action, due to its limited lifetime (1 μs) and reactive distance (<10 nm), could regulate live cell function nanoscopically. The genetically-encoded protein photosensitizers (engineered fluorescent proteins such as KillerRed, TagRFP, and flavin-binding proteins such as miniSOG, Pp2FbFP^L30M) could be expressed in a cell type- and/or subcellular organelle-specific manner for targeted protein photo-oxidative activation/desensitization. The newly emerged active illumination technique provides an additional level of specificity. Typical examples of photodynamic activation include permanent activation of G protein-coupled receptor CCK1 and photodynamic activation of ionic channel TRPA1. Protein photosensitizers have been used to photodynamically modulate major cellular functions (such as neurotransmitter release and gene transcription) and animal behavior. Protein photosensitizers are increasingly used in photon-driven nanomanipulation in cell physiology research.

Inhibition of pancreatic acinar mitochondrial thiamin pyrophosphate uptake by the cigarette smoke component 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone

Thiamin is essential for normal metabolism in pancreatic acinar cells (PAC) and is obtained from their microenvironment through specific plasma-membrane transporters, converted to thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP) in the cytoplasm, followed by uptake of TPP by mitochondria through the mitochondrial TPP (MTPP) transporter (MTPPT; product of SLC25A19 gene). TPP is essential for normal mitochondrial function. We examined the effect of long-term/chronic exposure of PAC in vitro (pancreatic acinar 266-6 cells) and in vivo (wild-type or transgenic mice carrying the SLC25A19 promoter) of the cigarette smoke toxin, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), on the MTPP uptake process. Our in vitro and in vivo findings demonstrate that NNK negatively affects MTPP uptake and reduced expression of MTPPT protein, MTPPT mRNA, and heterogenous nuclear RNA, as well as SLC25A19 promoter activity. The effect of NNK on Slc25a19 transcription was neither mediated by changes in expression of transcriptional factor NFY-1 (known to drive SLC25A19 transcription), nor due to changes in methylation profile of the Slc25a19 promoter. Rather, it appears to be due to changes in histone modifications that involve significant decreases in histone H3K4-trimethylation and H3K9-acetylation (activation markers). The effect of NNK on MTPPT function is mediated through the nonneuronal α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR), as indicated by both in vitro (using the nAChR antagonist mecamylamine) and in vivo (using an α7-nAchR(-/-) mouse model) studies. These findings demonstrate that chronic exposure of PAC to NNK negatively impacts PAC MTPP uptake. This effect appears to be exerted at the level of Slc25a19 transcription, involve epigenetic mechanism(s), and is mediated through the α7-nAchR.

Chronic alcohol exposure affects pancreatic acinar mitochondrial thiamin pyrophosphate uptake: studies with mouse 266-6 cell line and primary cells

Thiamin is essential for normal metabolic activity of all mammalian cells, including those of the pancreas. Cells obtain thiamin from their surroundings and enzymatically convert it into thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP) in the cytoplasm; TPP is then taken up by mitochondria via a specific carrier the mitochondrial TPP transporter (MTPPT; product of the SLC25A19 gene). Chronic alcohol exposure negatively impacts the health of pancreatic acinar cells (PAC), but its effect on physiological/molecular parameters of MTPPT is not known. We addressed this issue using mouse pancreatic acinar tumor cell line 266-6 and primary PAC of wild-type and transgenic mice carrying the SLC25A19 promoter that were fed alcohol chronically. Chronic alcohol exposure of 266-6 cells (but not to its nonoxidative metabolites ethyl palmitate and ethyl oleate) led to a significant inhibition in mitochondrial TPP uptake, which was associated with a decreased expression of MTPPT protein, mRNA, and activity of the SLC25A19 promoter. Similarly, chronic alcohol feeding of mice led to a significant inhibition in expression of MTPPT protein, mRNA, heterogeneous nuclear RNA, as well as in activity of SLC25A19 promoter in PAC. While chronic alcohol exposure did not affect DNA methylation of the Slc25a19 promoter, a significant decrease in histone H3 euchromatin markers and an increase in H3 heterochromatin marker were observed. These findings show, for the first time, that chronic alcohol exposure negatively impacts pancreatic MTPPT, and that this effect is exerted, at least in part, at the level of Slc25a19 transcription and appears to involve epigenetic mechanism(s).

Chronic alcohol exposure inhibits biotin uptake by pancreatic acinar cells: possible involvement of epigenetic mechanisms

Chronic exposure to alcohol affects different physiological aspects of pancreatic acinar cells (PAC), but its effect on the uptake process of biotin is not known. We addressed this issue using mouse-derived pancreatic acinar 266-6 cells chronically exposed to alcohol and wild-type and transgenic mice (carrying the human SLC5A6 5'-promoter) fed alcohol chronically. First we established that biotin uptake by PAC is Na(+) dependent and carrier mediated and involves sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter (SMVT). Chronic exposure of 266-6 cells to alcohol led to a significant inhibition in biotin uptake, expression of SMVT protein, and mRNA as well as in the activity of the SLC5A6 promoter. Similarly, chronic alcohol feeding of wild-type and transgenic mice carrying the SLC5A6 promoter led to a significant inhibition in biotin uptake by PAC, as well as in the expression of SMVT protein and mRNA and the activity of the SLC5A6 promoters expressed in the transgenic mice. We also found that chronic alcohol feeding of mice is associated with a significant increase in the methylation status of CpG islands predicted to be in the mouse Slc5a6 promoters and a decrease in the level of expression of transcription factor KLF-4, which plays an important role in regulating SLC5A6 promoter activity. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that chronic alcohol exposure negatively impacts biotin uptake in PAC and that this effect is exerted (at least in part) at the level of transcription of the SLC5A6 gene and may involve epigenetic/molecular mechanisms.

Protein kinase d regulates cell death pathways in experimental pancreatitis

Inflammation and acinar cell necrosis are two major pathological responses of acute pancreatitis, a serious disorder with no current therapies directed to its molecular pathogenesis. Serine/threonine protein kinase D family, which includes PKD/PKD1, PKD2, and PKD3, has been increasingly implicated in the regulation of multiple physiological and pathophysiological effects. We recently reported that PKD/PKD1, the predominant PKD isoform expressed in rat pancreatic acinar cells, mediates early events of pancreatitis including NF-κB activation and inappropriate intracellular digestive enzyme activation. In current studies, we investigated the role and mechanisms of PKD/PKD1 in the regulation of necrosis in pancreatic acinar cells by using two novel small molecule PKD inhibitors CID755673 and CRT0066101 and molecular approaches in in vitro and in vivo experimental models of acute pancreatitis. Our results demonstrated that both CID755673 and CRT0066101 are PKD-specific inhibitors and that PKD/PKD1 inhibition by either the chemical inhibitors or specific PKD/PKD1 siRNAs attenuated necrosis while promoting apoptosis induced by pathological doses of cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK) in pancreatic acinar cells. Conversely, up-regulation of PKD expression in pancreatic acinar cells increased necrosis and decreased apoptosis. We further showed that PKD/PKD1 regulated several key cell death signals including inhibitors of apoptotic proteins, caspases, receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 to promote necrosis. PKD/PKD1 inhibition by CID755673 significantly ameliorated necrosis and severity of pancreatitis in an in vivo experimental model of acute pancreatitis. Thus, our studies indicate that PKD/PKD1 is a key mediator of necrosis in acute pancreatitis and that PKD/PKD1 may represent a potential therapeutic target in acute pancreatitis.

Review of experimental animal models of biliary acute pancreatitis and recent advances in basic research

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a formidable disease, which, in severe forms, causes significant mortality. Biliary AP, or gallstone obstruction-associated AP, accounts for 30-50% of all clinical cases of AP. In biliary AP, pancreatic acinar cell (PAC) death (the initiating event in the disease) is believed to occur as acinar cells make contact with bile salts when bile refluxes into the pancreatic duct. Recent advances have unveiled an important receptor responsible for the major function of bile acids on acinar cells, namely, the cell surface G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor-1 (Gpbar1), located in the apical pole of the PAC. High concentrations of bile acids induce cytosolic Ca(2+) overload and inhibit mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, resulting in cell injury to both PACs and pancreatic ductal epithelial cells. Various bile salts are employed to induce experimental AP, most commonly sodium taurocholate. Recent characterization of taurolithocholic acid 3-sulphate on PACs has led researchers to focus on this bile salt because of its potency in causing acinar cell injury at relatively low, sub-detergent concentrations, which strongly implicates action via the receptor Gpbar1. Improved surgical techniques have enabled the infusion of bile salts into the pancreatic duct to induce experimental biliary AP in mice, which allows the use of these transgenic animals as powerful tools. This review summarizes recent findings using transgenic mice in experimental biliary AP.

The role of kinesin, dynein and microtubules in pancreatic secretion

The regulated secretion of pancreatic zymogens depends on a functional cytoskeleton and intracellular vesicle transport. To study the dynamics of tubulin and its motor proteins dynein and kinesin during secretion in pancreatic acinar cells, we infused rats with 0.1 mug/kg/h caerulein. Electron and fluorescence microscopy detected neither dynein nor kinesin at the apical secretory pole, nor on the surface of mature zymogen granules. After 30 min of secretagogue stimulation, kinesin and the Golgi marker protein 58 K were reallocated towards the apical plasma membrane and association of kinesin with tubulin was enhanced. Disruption of acinar cell microtubules had no effect on initial caerulein-induced amylase release but completely blocked secretion during a second stimulus. Our results suggest that mature zymogen granule exocytosis is independent of intact microtubules, kinesin and dynein. However, microtubule-dependent mechanisms seem to be important for the replenishment of secretory vesicles by redistribution of Golgi elements towards the apical cell pole.

Seasonal variation in trypsin activity in juvenile Atlantic salmon upper and lower modal groups

Juvenile salmon in their first year of growth showed a bimodal distribution of body lengths by December. For experimental purposes samples of fish from the upper 2% of body lengths were taken as representing the upper modal group (UMG), whilst fish from the bottom 5% of body lengths were taken to represent the lower modal group (LMG). The population of fish from which the samples were taken were fed ad libitum from December to July. During the winter months to March, neither group increased in weight. Growth resumed between March and July. The LMG fish had a very low food intake, as indicated by the relative weight of digesta in the stomach, in the winter months. However, following resumption of feeding, the relative weight of stomach digesta of the LMG fish exceeded that of the UMG fish between May and July. The activity of trypsin in the intestinal digesta followed a similar pattern, the LMG fish showing a higher trypsin activity in the spring months. Starvation of UMG fish for 5 days in winter resulted in accumulation of trypsin in the pancreatic tissues, whilst injection of the trypsin releasing hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) into starving UMG fish resulted in reduction of trypsin in the secretory tissues. CCK also caused reduction of trypsin in the pancreatic tissues of LMG fish, suggesting that the pancreas of this group is potentially fully functional during the winter period. Ultrastructure studies of the pancreatic acinar cells showed evidence for lower secretory activity in the LMG fish, as indicated by smaller numbers of zymogen granules, less well developed Golgi systems and a smaller number of active secreting cells. It appears that trypsin secretion by the pancreas in LMG fish is at a low level during the winter, in response to the reduced amounts of food passing through the gut, which is ultimately controlled by changes in food intake, lowered metabolic level and lowered appetite levels.