Showing papers in "Biochemical Journal in 1996"

Damage to DNA by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species: role in inflammatory disease and progression to cancer.

Abstract: It is increasingly proposed that reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) play a key role in human cancer development [1–6], especially as evidence is growing that antioxidants may prevent or delay the onset of some types of cancer (reviewed in [7,8]). ROS is a collective term often used by biologists to include oxygen radicals [superoxide (O # J−), hydroxyl (OHJ), peroxyl (RO # J) and alkoxyl (ROJ)] and certain nonradicals that are either oxidizing agents and}or are easily converted into radicals, such as HOCl, ozone (O $ ), peroxynitrite (ONOO−), singlet oxygen ("O # ) and H # O # . RNS is a similar collective term that includes nitric oxide radical (NOJ), ONOO−, nitrogen dioxide radical (NO # J), other oxides of nitrogen and products arising when NOJ reacts with O # J−, ROJ and RO # J. ‘Reactive ’ is not always an appropriate term; H # O # , NOJ and O # J− react quickly with very few molecules, whereas OHJ reacts quickly with almost anything. RO # J, ROJ, HOCl, NO # J, ONOO− and O $ have intermediate reactivities. ROS and RNS have been shown to possess many characteristics of carcinogens [4] (Figure 1). Mutagenesis by ROS}RNS could contribute to the initiation of cancer, in addition to being important in the promotion and progression phases. For example, ROS}RNS can have the following effects. (1) Cause structural alterations in DNA, e.g. base pair mutations, rearrangements, deletions, insertions and sequence amplification. OHJ is especially damaging, but "O # , RO # J, ROJ, HNO # , O $ , ONOO− and the decomposition products of ONOO− are also effective [9–13]. ROS can produce gross chromosomal alterations in addition to point mutations and thus could be involved in the inactivation or loss of the second wild-type allele of a mutated proto-oncogene or tumour-suppressor gene that can occur during tumour promotion and progression, allowing expression of the mutated phenotype [4]. (2) Affect cytoplasmic and nuclear signal transduction pathways [14,15]. For example, H # O # (which crosses cell and organelle membranes easily) can lead to displacement of the inhibitory subunit from the cytoplasmic transcription factor nuclear factor κB, allowing the activated factor to migrate to the nucleus [14]. Nitration of tyrosine residues by ONOO− may block phosphorylation. (3) Modulate the activity of the proteins and genes that respond to stress and which act to regulate the genes that are related to cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis [4,14–17]. For example, H # O # can stimulate transcription of c-jun

The lipocalin protein family: structure and function

Abstract: The lipocalin protein family is a large group of small extracellular proteins. The family demonstrates great diversity at the sequence level; however, most lipocalins share three characteristic conserved sequence motifs, the kernel lipocalins, while a group of more divergent family members, the outlier lipocalins, share only one. Belying this sequence dissimilarity, lipocalin crystal structures are highly conserved and comprise a single eight-stranded continuously hydrogen-bonded antiparallel beta-barrel, which encloses an internal ligand-binding site. Together with two other families of ligand-binding proteins, the fatty-acid-binding proteins (FABPs) and the avidins, the lipocalins form part of an overall structural superfamily: the calycins. Members of the lipocalin family are characterized by several common molecular-recognition properties: the ability to bind a range of small hydrophobic molecules, binding to specific cell-surface receptors and the formation of complexes with soluble macromolecules. The varied biological functions of the lipocalins are mediated by one or more of these properties. In the past, the lipocalins have been classified as transport proteins; however, it is now clear that the lipocalins exhibit great functional diversity, with roles in retinol transport, invertebrate cryptic coloration, olfaction and pheromone transport, and prostaglandin synthesis. The lipocalins have also been implicated in the regulation of cell homoeostasis and the modulation of the immune response, and, as carrier proteins, to act in the general clearance of endogenous and exogenous compounds.

Collagen fibril formation

Abstract: Collagen is most abundant in animal tissues as very long fibrils with a characteristic axial periodic structure. The fibrils provide the major biomechanical scaffold for cell attachment and anchorage of macromolecules, allowing the shape and form of tissues to be defined and maintained. How the fibrils are formed from their monomeric precursors is the primary concern of this review. Collagen fibril formation is basically a self-assembly process (i.e. one which is to a large extent determined by the intrinsic properties of the collagen molecules themselves) but it is also sensitive to cell-mediated regulation, particularly in young or healing tissues. Recent attention has been focused on "early fibrils' or "fibril segments' of approximately 10 microns in length which appear to be intermediates in the formation of mature fibrils that can grow to be hundreds of micrometers in length. Data from several laboratories indicate that these early fibrils can be unipolar (with all molecules pointing in the same direction) or bipolar (in which the orientation of collagen molecules reverses at a single location along the fibril). The occurrence of such early fibrils has major implications for tissue morphogenesis and repair. In this article we review the current understanding of the origin of unipolar and bipolar fibrils, and how mature fibrils are assembled from early fibrils. We include preliminary evidence from invertebrates which suggests that the principles for bipolar fibril assembly were established at least 500 million years ago.

Nucleation and inhibition of hydroxyapatite formation by mineralized tissue proteins.

Abstract: Many proteins found in mineralized tissues have been proposed to function as regulators of the mineralization process, either as nucleators or inhibitors of hydroxyapatite (HA) formation. We have studied the HA-nucleating and HA-inhibiting properties of proteins from bone [osteocalcin (OC), osteopontin (OPN), osteonectin (ON) and bone sialoprotein (BSP)], dentine [phosphophoryn (DPP)] and calcified cartilage [chondrocalcin (CC)] over a wide range of concentrations. Nucleation of HA was studied with a steady-state agarose gel system at sub-threshold [Ca] x [PO4] product. BSP and DPP exhibited nucleation activity at minimum concentrations of 0.3 microgram/ml (9 nM) and 10 micrograms/ml (67 nM) respectively. OC, OPN, ON and CC all lacked nucleation activity at concentrations up to 100 micrograms/ml. Inhibition of HA formation de novo was studied with calcium phosphate solutions buffered by autotitration. OPN was found to be a potent inhibitor of HA formation [IC50 = 0.32 microgram/ml (0.01 microM)] whereas OC was of lower potency [IC50 = 6.1 micrograms/ml (1.1 microM)]; BSP, ON and CC all lacked inhibitory activity at concentrations up to 10 micrograms/ml. The effect of OPN on HA formation de novo is mainly to inhibit crystal growth, whereas OC delays nucleation. These findings are consistent with the view that BSP and DPP may play roles in the initiation of mineralization in bone and dentine respectively. OPN seems to be the mineralized tissue protein most likely to function in the inhibition of HA formation, possibly by preventing phase separation in tissue fluids of high supersaturation.

The role of cellular hydration in the regulation of cell function.

Abstract: The cellular hydration state is dynamic and changes within minutes under the influence of aniso-osmolarity, hormones, nutrients and oxidative stress. This occurs despite the activity of potent mechanisms for cell volume regulation, which have been observed in virtually all cell types studied so far. These volumeregulatory mechanisms are apparently not designed to maintain absolute cell volume constancy; rather, they act as dampeners in order to prevent excessive cell volume deviations which would otherwise result from cumulative substrate uptake. On the other hand, these volume-regulatory mechanisms can even be activated in the resting state by hormones, and by this means changes in cell hydration are created. Most importantly, small fluctuations of cell hydration, i.e. of cell volume, act as a separate and potent signal for cellular metabolism and gene expression. Accordingly, a simple but elegant method is created for the adaptation of cell function to environmental challenges. In liver, cell swelling and shrinkage lead to certain opposite patterns of cellular metabolic function. Apparently, hormones and amino acids can trigger these patterns by altering cell volume. Thus cell volume homeostasis does not simply mean volume constancy, but rather the integration of events which allow cell hydration to play its physiological role as a regulator of cell function (for reviews see [1–4]). The interaction between cellular hydration and cell function has been most extensively studied in liver cells, but evidence is increasing that regulation of cell function through alterations of cell hydration also occurs in other cell types. This review will largely refer to hepatocytes, but when appropriate other cell types will also be considered. Regulation of mitochondrial function by hormone-induced changes of matrix volume has been established in the past (for reviews see [5,6]) ; this aspect will only be covered briefly. For further details, the reader is referred to recent surveys [2,4,7,8].

Signal-transducing protein phosphorylation cascades mediated by Ras/Rho proteins in the mammalian cell: the potential for multiplex signalling

Abstract: The features of three distinct protein phosphorylation cascades in mammalian cells are becoming clear. These signalling pathways link receptor-mediated events at the cell surface or intracellular perturbations such as DNA damage to changes in cytoskeletal structure, vesicle transport and altered transcription factor activity. The best known pathway, the Ras-->Raf-->MEK-->ERK cascade [where ERK is extracellular-signal-regulated kinase and MEK is mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase/ERK kinase], is typically stimulated strongly by mitogens and growth factors. The other two pathways, stimulated primarily by assorted cytokines, hormones and various forms of stress, predominantly utilize p21 proteins of the Rho family (Rho, Rac and CDC42), although Ras can also participate. Diagnostic of each pathway is the MAP kinase component, which is phosphorylated by a unique dual-specificity kinase on both tyrosine and threonine in one of three motifs (Thr-Glu-Tyr, Thr-Phe-Tyr or Thr-Gly-Tyr), depending upon the pathway. In addition to activating one or more protein phosphorylation cascades, the initiating stimulus may also mobilize a variety of other signalling molecules (e.g. protein kinase C isoforms, phospholipid kinases, G-protein alpha and beta gamma subunits, phospholipases, intracellular Ca2+). These various signals impact to a greater or lesser extent on multiple downstream effectors. Important concepts are that signal transmission often entails the targeted relocation of specific proteins in the cell, and the reversible formation of protein complexes by means of regulated protein phosphorylation. The signalling circuits may be completed by the phosphorylation of upstream effectors by downstream kinases, resulting in a modulation of the signal. Signalling is terminated and the components returned to the ground state largely by dephosphorylation. There is an indeterminant amount of cross-talk among the pathways, and many of the proteins in the pathways belong to families of closely related proteins. The potential for more than one signal to be conveyed down a pathway simultaneously (multiplex signalling) is discussed. The net effect of a given stimulus on the cell is the result of a complex intracellular integration of the intensity and duration of activation of the individual pathways. The specific outcome depends on the particular signalling molecules expressed by the target cells and on the dynamic balance among the pathways.

Regulation of reactive-oxygen-species generation in fibroblasts by Rac1.

Abstract: In a variety of non-phagocytic cell types, there is a marked increase in intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide and H2O2, after ligand stimulation. We demonstrate that in NIH 3T3 cells transient expression of constitutively activated forms of the small GTP-binding proteins Ras or Rac1 leads to a significant increase in intracellular ROS. An increase in intracellular ROS is also demonstrated after growth factor [platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) or epidermal growth factor (EGF)] or cytokine [tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) or interleukin (IL)-1 beta] stimulation of NIH 3T3 cells. Expression of a dominant negative allele of Rac1 inhibits the rise in ROS seen after Ras expression or after stimulation by either growth factors or cytokines. These results provide the first demonstration of the pathway by which ligand stimulation of ROS occurs in non-phagocytic cells and suggest that the family of Ras-related small GTP-binding proteins may function as regulators of the intracellular redox state.

Benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp (OMe) fluoromethylketone (Z-VAD.FMK) inhibits apoptosis by blocking the processing of CPP32.

Abstract: Interleukin-1 beta converting enzyme (ICE)-like proteases, which are synthesized as inactive precursors, play a key role in the induction of apoptosis. We now demonstrate that benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp (OMe) fluoromethylketone (Z-VAD.FMK), an ICE-like protease inhibitor, inhibits apoptosis by preventing the processing of CPP32 to its active form. These results suggest that novel inhibitors of apoptosis can be developed which prevent processing of proforms of ICE-like proteases.

Molecular cloning, expression and potential functions of the human proteinase-activated receptor-2

Abstract: We used PCR to amplify proteinase activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) from human kidney cDNA. The open reading frame comprised 1191 bp and encoded a protein of 397 residues with 83% identity with mouse PAR-2. In KNRK cells (a line of kirsten murine sarcoma virus-transformed rat kidney epithelial cells) transfected with this cDNA, trypsin and activating peptide (AP) corresponding to the tethered ligand exposed by trypsin cleavage (SLIGKV-NH2) induced a prompt increase in cytosolic calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i). Human PAR-2 (hPAR-2) resided both on the plasma membrane and in the Golgi apparatus. hPAR-2 mRNA was highly expressed in human pancreas, kidney, colon, liver and small intestine, and by A549 lung and SW480 colon adenocarcinoma cells. Hybridization in situ revealed high expression in intestinal epithelial cells throughout the gut. Trypsin and AP stimulated an increase in [Ca2+]i in a rat intestinal epithelial cell line (hBRIE 380) and stimulated amylase secretion in isolated pancreatic acini. In A549 cells, which also responded to trypsin and AP with mobilization of cytosolic Ca2+, AP inhibited colony formation. Thus PAR-2 may serve as a trypsin sensor in the gut. Its expression by cells and tissues not normally exposed to pancreatic trypsin suggests that other proteases could serve as physiological activators.

Non-erythroid alpha-spectrin breakdown by calpain and interleukin 1 beta-converting-enzyme-like protease(s) in apoptotic cells: contributory roles of both protease families in neuronal apoptosis.

Abstract: The cytoskeletal protein non-erythroid alpha-spectrin is well documented as an endogenous calpain substrate, especially under pathophysiological conditions. In cell necrosis (e.g. maitotoxin-treated neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells), alpha-spectrin breakdown products (SBDPs) of 150 kDa and 145 kDa were produced by cellular calpains. In contrast, in neuronal cells undergoing apoptosis (cerebellar granule neurons subjected to low potassium and SH-SY5Y cells treated with staurosporine), an additional SBDP of 120 kDa was also observed. The formation of the 120 kDa SBDP was insensitive to calpain inhibitors but was completely blocked by an interleukin 1 beta-converting-enzyme (ICE)-like protease inhibitor, Z-Asp-CH2OC(O)-2,6-dichlorobenzene. Autolytic activation of both calpain and the ICE homologue CPP32 was also observed in apoptotic cells. alpha-Spectrin can also be cleaved in vitro by purified calpains to produce the SBDP doublet of 150/145 kDa and by ICE and ICE homologues [ICH-1, ICH-2 and CPP32(beta)] to produce a 150 kDa SBDP. In addition, CPP32 and ICE also produced a 120 kDa SBDP. Furthermore inhibition of either ICE-like protease(s) or calpain protects both granule neurons and SH-SY5Y cells against apoptosis. Our results suggest that both protease families participate in the expression of neuronal apoptosis.

Mammalian mitochondrial beta-oxidation

Abstract: The enzymic stages of mammalian mitochondrial beta-oxidation were elucidated some 30-40 years ago. However, the discovery of a membrane-associated multifunctional enzyme of beta-oxidation, a membrane-associated acyl-CoA dehydrogenase and characterization of the carnitine palmitoyl transferase system at the protein and at the genetic level has demonstrated that the enzymes of the system itself are incompletely understood. Deficiencies of many of the enzymes have been recognized as important causes of disease. In addition, the study of these disorders has led to a greater understanding of the molecular mechanism of beta-oxidation and the import, processing and assembly of the beta-oxidation enzymes within the mitochondrion. The tissue-specific regulation, intramitochondrial control and supramolecular organization of the pathway is becoming better understood as sensitive analytical and molecular techniques are applied. This review aims to cover enzymological and organizational aspects of mitochondrial beta-oxidation together with the biochemical aspects of inherited disorders of beta-oxidation and the intrinsic control of beta-oxidation.

A novel nickel-containing superoxide dismutase from Streptomyces spp

Abstract: A novel type of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was purified to apparent homogeneity from the cytosolic fractions of Streptomyces sp. IMSNU-1 and Strep. coelicolor ATCC 10147 respectively. Both enzymes were composed of four identical subunits of 13.4 kDa, were stable at pH 4.0–8.0 and up to 70 °C, and were inhibited by cyanide and H 2 O 2 but little inhibited by azide. The atomic absorption analyses revealed that both enzymes contain 0.74 g-atom of nickel per mol of subunit. Both enzymes were different from iron-containing SOD and manganese-containing SOD from Escherichia coli , and copper- and zinc-containing SODs from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bovine erythrocytes, with respect to amino acid composition, N-terminal amino acid sequence and cross-reactivity against antibody. The absorption spectra of both enzymes were identical, exhibiting maxima at 276 and 378 nm, and a broad peak at 531 nm. The EPR spectra of both enzymes were almost identical with that of Ni III in a tetragonal symmetry of Ni III -oligopeptides especially containing histidine. The apoenzymes, lacking in nickel, had no ability to mediate the conversion of superoxide anion radical to hydrogen peroxide, strongly indicating that Ni III plays a main role in these enzymes.

Steroid hormone receptors and their regulation by phosphorylation.

Abstract: The steroid/thyroid hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors encompasses not only the receptors for steroids, thyroid hormone, retinoids and vitamin D, but also a large number of proteins whose functions and/or ligands are unknown and which are thus termed orphan receptors. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of phosphorylation in receptor function. Although most of the phosphorylation sites are serine and threonine residues, a few of the family members are also phosphorylated on tyrosine. Those steroid receptor family members that are bound to heat-shock proteins in the absence of ligand typically are basally phosphorylated and exhibit increases in phosphorylation upon ligand binding. Most of these sites contain Ser-Pro motifs, and there is evidence that cyclin-dependent kinases and MAP kinases (mitogen-activated protein kinases) phosphorylate subsets of these sites. In contrast, phosphorylation sites identified thus far in members of the family that bind to DNA in the absence of hormone typically do not contain Ser-Pro motifs and are frequently casein kinase II or protein kinase A sites. Phosphorylation has been implicated in DNA binding, transcriptional activation and stability of the receptors. The finding that some of the steroid receptor family members can be activated in the absence of ligand by growth factors or neurotransmitters that modulate kinase and/or phosphatase pathways underscores the role of phosphorylation in receptor function. Hence this family of transcription factors integrates signals from ligands as well as from signal transduction pathways, resulting in alterations in mRNA and protein expression that are unique to the complex signals received.

Biosynthesis of isoprenoids (carotenoids, sterols, prenyl side-chains of chlorophylls and plastoquinone) via a novel pyruvate/glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate non-mevalonate pathway in the green alga Scenedesmus obliquus.

Abstract: Isoprenoid biosynthesis was investigated in the green alga Scenedesmus obliquus grown heterotrophically on 13C-labelled glucose and acetate. Several isoprenoid compounds were isolated and investigated by 13C-NMR spectroscopy. According to the 13C-labelling pattern indicated by the 13C-NMR spectra, the biosynthesis of all plastidic isoprenoids investigated (prenyl side-chains of chlorophylls and plastoquinone-9, and the carotenoids beta-carotene and lutein), as well as of the non-plastidic cytoplasmic sterols, does not proceed via the classical acetate/mevalonate pathway (which leads from acetyl-CoA via mevalonate to isopentenyl diphosphate), but via the novel glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate/pyruvate route recently detected in eubacteria. Formation of isopentenyl diphosphate involves the condensation of a C2 unit derived from pyruvate decarboxylation with glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and a transposition yielding the branched C5 skeleton of isoprenic units.

Cellular consequences of thrombin-receptor activation.

Abstract: To say that thrombin is a multi-functional protein is rather to understate the case. It is the key enzyme involved in haemostasis, playing important roles at all levels of complexity. First, in the coagulation cascade, thrombin converts fibrinogen into fibrin, which is readily cross-linked to form a clot (reviewed in [1,2]) ; secondly, thrombin activates blood platelets, causing aggregation and secretion [3,4] ; and thirdly, thrombin can elicit mitogenic responses from vascular smooth-muscle cells [5,6]. This latter property is probably most significant in the renewal of damaged blood-vessel walls. Additionally, thrombin is able to elicit responses from cell types as diverse as macrophages [7], monocytes [8] and neutrophils [9]. Perhaps more surprisingly, it is able to regulate neurite outgrowth from cells of neuronal origin [10] and initiate resorption of bone cells [11]. All of these properties of thrombin appear to rely on its action as a serine proteinase, since modification (either chemically [12–14] or mutationally [15–17]) which destroys its proteolytic activity leads to a loss of biological activity. These crucial findings have been explained to a large extent by the recent elegant characterization of a novel, widely expressed thrombin receptor which is activated by proteolytic cleavage rather than by ligand (protein) binding [18,19]. At the same time as elucidation of the mechanism of thrombin signalling there has been a dramatic increase in our understanding of how thrombin signals are mediated within the cell. This therefore seems an appropriate time to assess our current knowledge and perhaps to try to predict areas where the greatest advances will be made in the immediate future. In this review, because of limitations in length, emphasis will be placed on recent advances, in particular on the characterization of the thrombin receptor and in the mechanisms of intracellular signalling. Whilst most studies of thrombin have concentrated on its action on cells involved in blood clotting and wound healing, it is now becoming apparent that it can modulate the growth and differentiation status of cells of neuronal origin. A consideration of recent advances in this area of study will form the third major theme of this review.

Specific binding of the Akt-1 protein kinase to phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate without subsequent activation

Abstract: Recent evidence has suggested that activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) is required for the activation of Akt-1 by growth factors and insulin. Here we demonstrate by two independent methods that Akt-1 from L6 myotubes binds to PtdIns(3,4,5)P3, PtdIns(3,4)P2 and PtdIns(4,5)P2 when presented against a background of phosphatidylserine (PtdSer) or a 1:1 mixture of PtdSer and phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho). No binding was observed with the lipids PtdIns(3,5)P2, PtdIns4P and PtdIns3P or background lipids. Activated, hyperphosphorylated forms of Akt-1 from insulin-stimulated L6 myotubes bound to PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 in a similar manner as inactive Akt-1. Quantitative analysis using surface plasmon resonance showed that the equilibrium association constant for the binding of Akt-1 to PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 was submicromolar and that PtdIns(3,4)P2 and PtdIns(4,5)P2 bound to Akt-1 with 3- and 6-fold lower affinities respectively. Interaction of Akt-1 with PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 did not activate the protein kinase activity, either before or after incubation with MgATP. A model is presented in which PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 may prime Akt-1 for activation by another protein kinase, perhaps by recruiting it to the plasma membrane.

Nitric oxide and peroxynitrite exert distinct effects on mitochondrial respiration which are differentially blocked by glutathione or glucose

Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) and peroxynitrite both inhibit respiration by brain submitochondrial particles, the former reversibly at cytochrome c oxidase, the latter irreversibly at complexes I-III. Both GSH (IC50 =10 microM) and glucose (IC50 = 8 mM) prevented inhibition of respiration by peroxynitrite (ONOO-), but neither glucose (100 mM) nor GSH (100 microM) affected that by NO. Thus, unless ONOO- is formed within mitochondria it is unlikely to inhibit respiration in cells directly, because of reactions with cellular thiols and carbohydrates. However, the reversible inhibition of respiration cytochrome c oxidase by NO is likely to occur (e.g. in the brain during ischaemia) and could be responsible for cytotoxicity.

ATP-dependent glutathione disulphide transport mediated by the MRP gene-encoded conjugate export pump

Abstract: We have previously shown that the multidrug resistance protein (MRP) mediates the ATP-dependent membrane transport of the endogenous glutathione conjugate leukotriene C4 (LTC4) and of structurally related anionic conjugates of lipophilic compounds [Jedlitschky, Leier, Buchholz, Center and Keppler (1994) Cancer Res. 54, 4833-4836; Leier, Jedlitschky, Buchholz, Cole, Deeley and Keppler (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 27807-27810]. We demonstrate in the present study that MRP also mediates the ATP-dependent transport of GSSG, as shown in membrane vesicles from human leukaemia cells overexpressing MRP (HL60/ADR cells) or HeLa cells transfected with an MRP expression vector (HeLa T5 cells) in comparison with the respective parental or control cells. The Km value for ATP-dependent transport of GSSG was 93 +/- 26 microM (mean value +/- S.D., n=5) in membrane vesicles from HeLa T5 cells. GSH, at a concentration of 100 microM, was not a substrate for any significant ATP-dependent MRP-mediated transport. The transport of GSSG was competitively inhibited by LTC4, by the leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist 3-([?3-(2-[7-chloro-2-quinolinyl]ethenyl)phenyl?-?(3-dimethylamino-3- oxopropyl)-thio?-methyl]thio)propanoic acid (MK 571) and by S-decylglutathione, with K1 values of 0.3, 0.6 and 0.7 microM respectively. These studies identify MRP as the membrane glycoprotein which mediates the ATP-dependent export of GSSG from these cells.

Inhibition of mammalian nitric oxide synthases by agmatine, an endogenous polyamine formed by decarboxylation of arginine

Abstract: Agmatine, decarboxylated arginine, is a metabolic product of mammalian cells. Considering the close structural similarity between L-arginine and agmatine, we investigated the interaction of agmatine and nitric oxide synthases (NOSs), which use L-arginine to generate nitric oxide (NO) and citrulline. Brain, macrophages and endothelial cells were respectively used as sources for NOS isoforms I, II and III. Enzyme activity was measured by the production of nitrites or L-citrulline. Agmatine was a competitive NOS inhibitor but not an NO precursor. Ki values were approx. 660 microM (NOS I), 220 microM (NOS II) and 7.5 mM (NOS III). Structurally related polyamines did not inhibit NOS activity. Agmatine, therefore, may be an endogenous regulator of NO production in mammals.

Glutathione S-transferase class Kappa: characterization by the cloning of rat mitochondrial GST and identification of a human homologue

Abstract: We have isolated a cDNA clone that encodes rat glutahione S-transferase (GST) subunit 13, a GST originally isolated from rat liver mitochondrial matrix by Harris, Meyer, Coles and Ketterer [(1991) Biochem. J. 278, 137-141]. The 896 bp cDNA contains an open reading frame of 678 bp encoding a deduced protein sequence of which the first 33 residues (excluding the initiation methionine residue) correspond to the N-terminal sequence reported by Harris et al. Hence like many other nuclear-encoded, mitochondrially located proteins, there is no cleavable mitochondrial presequence at the N-terminus. GST subunit 13 was originally placed into the Theta class of GSTs on the basis of sequence identity at the N-terminus; however, this is the only identity with the Theta class and in fact GST subunit 13 shows little sequence similarity to any of the known GST classes. Most importantly it lacks the SNAIL/TRAIL motif that has so far been a characteristic of soluble GSTs, although it does possess a second motif (FGXXXXVXXVDGXXXXXF) reported for GST-related proteins (Koonin, Mushegian, Tatusov, Altschul, Bryant, Bork and Valencia [(1994) Protein Sci. 3, 2045-2054]. Southern and Northern blot analyses of rat DNA and mRNA are consistent with GST subunit 13's being the product of a single hybridizing gene locus. Searches of EST databases identified numerous similar human DNA sequences and a single pig sequence. We have derived a human cDNA sequence from these EST sequences which shows a high nucleotide similarity (77%) to rat GST subunit 13. The largest open reading frame is identical in length with subunit 13 and yields a deduced protein sequence identity of 70%. Most unusually the 3' non-coding nucleotide sequence identity is also 77%. We conclude that these cDNAs belong to a novel GST class hereby designated Kappa, with the rat GST subunit 13 gene designated rGSTK1 and the human gene being called hGSTK1.

Nitric oxide-induced apoptosis: p53-dependent and p53-independent signalling pathways.

Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) generation initiates apoptotic cell death in different experimental systems. In RAW 264.7 macrophages the appearance of typical apoptotic markers is linked to inducible NO synthase induction. Mechanistically, accumulation of tumour suppressor p53 precedes apoptotic DNA fragmentation. With the use of S-nitroglutathione (GSNO) we correlated a dose-dependent p53 up-regulation to DNA fragmentation measured after 4 h and 8 h, respectively. Our studies revealed a linear correlation between the potency of five different NO donors with respect to apoptosis induction and p53 accumulation. Furthermore, we probed for NO-induced apoptosis after stable transfection of RAW 264.7 macrophages with plasmids encoding p53 antisense RNA. Clones with down-regulated p53 levels in response to GSNO exhibited a marked reduction in DNA fragmentation. Expression of the inducible NO synthase in response to lipopolysaccharide and interferon-gamma caused apoptosis in RAW 264.7 macrophages and neomycin-vector controls within 24 h. In contrast, p53 antisense RNA-expressing clones appeared highly resistant towards endogenous NO, although inducible NO synthase induction with concomitant nitrite production remained unchanged. For RAW 264.7 macrophages our results established a functional role of the tumour suppressor p53 during NO-induced apoptotic cell death. However, p53 antisense experiments and the use of the p53-negative cell line U937 substantiated p53-independent signalling pathways operative during NO-mediated apoptosis.

Cellular processing of the nerve growth factor precursor by the mammalian pro-protein convertases.

Abstract: In order to define the enzymes responsible for the maturation of the precursor of nerve growth factor (proNGF), its biosynthesis and intracellular processing by the pro-protein convertases furin, PC1, PC2, PACE4, PC5 and the PC5 isoform PC5/6-B were analysed using the vaccinia virus expression system in cells containing a regulated and/or a constitutive secretory pathway. Results demonstrate that in both cell types furin, and to a lesser extent PACE4 and PC5/6-B, are the best candidate proNGF convertases. Furthermore, two processed NGF forms of 16.5 and 13.5 kDa were evident in constitutively secreting cell lines such as LoVo and BSC40 cells, whereas only the 13.5 kDa form was observed in AtT20 cells, which contain secretory granules. Both forms display the same N-terminal sequence as mature NGF, and were also produced following site-directed mutagenesis of the C-terminal Arg-Arg sequence of NGF into Ala-Ala, suggesting that the difference between them is not at the C-terminus. Co-expression of proNGF with furin and either chromogranin B or secretogranin II (but not chromogranin A) in BSC40 cells eliminated the 16.5 kDa form. Data also show that N-glycosylation of the pro-segment of proNGF and trimming of the oligosaccharide chains are necessary for the exit of this precursor from the endoplasmic reticulum and its eventual processing and secretion. Sulphate labelling experiments demonstrated that proNGF is processed into mature NGF following the arrival of the precursor in the trans-Golgi network. This comparative study shows that the three candidate mammalian subtilisin/kexin-like convertases identified process proNGF into NGF and that the nature of the final processed products is dependent on the intracellular environment.

Coordinate activation of lysosomal, Ca 2+-activated and ATP-ubiquitin-dependent proteinases in the unweighted rat soleus muscle.

Abstract: Nine days of hindlimb suspension resulted in atrophy (55%) and loss of protein (53%) in rat soleus muscle due to a marked elevation in protein breakdown (66%, P < 0.005). To define which proteolytic system(s) contributed to this increase, soleus muscles from unweighted rats were incubated in the presence of proteolytic inhibitors. An increase in lysosomal and Ca 2+-activated proteolysis (254%, P < 0.05) occurred in the atrophying incubated muscles. In agreement with the measurements in vitro, cathepsin B, cathepsins B + L and m-calpain enzyme activities increased by 111%, 92% and 180% (P < 0.005) respectively in the atrophying muscles. Enhanced mRNA levels for these proteinases (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001) paralleled the increased enzyme activities, suggesting a transcriptional regulation of these enzymes. However, the lysosomal and Ca 2+-dependent proteolytic pathways accounted for a minor part of total proteolysis in both control (9%) and unweighted rats (18%). Furthermore the inhibition of these pathways failed to suppress increased protein breakdown in unweighted muscle. Thus a non-lysosomal Ca 2+-independent proteolytic process essentially accounted for the increased proteolysis and subsequent muscle wasting. Increased mRNA levels for ubiquitin, the 14 kDa ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 (involved in the ubiquitylation of protein substrates) and the C2 and C9 subunits of the 20 S proteasome (i.e. the proteolytic core of the 26 S proteasome that degrades ubiquitin conjugates) were observed in the atrophying muscles (P < 0.02 to P < 0.001). Analysis of C9 mRNA in polyribosomes showed equal distribution into both translationally active and inactive mRNA pools, in either unweighted or control rats. These results suggest that increased ATP-ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis is most probably responsible for muscle wasting in the unweighted soleus muscle.

Different mucins are produced by the surface epithelium and the submucosa in human trachea: identification of MUC5AC as a major mucin from the goblet cells.

Abstract: Mucins were extracted from the epithelial surface and the submucosal tissue of human trachea in order to enrich glycoproteins from the goblet cells and the submucosal glands respectively. The macromolecules were purified using density-gradient centrifugation, and the presence of the MUC5AC mucin was investigated using an antiserum raised against a synthetic peptide based on the sequence of the MUC5AC apoprotein. Mucins from the surface epithelium showed a higher reactivity with the antiserum relative to carbohydrate than those from the submucosa, and ion-exchange HPLC of reduced subunits revealed the presence of two distinct mucin populations in the samples. The predominant species from the surface epithelium was more acidic than the major population from the submucosa and showed a strong reactivity with the anti-MUC5AC antiserum. In contrast, the major portion of the submucosal mucins were less acidic and showed no MUC5AC reactivity, although a more acidic population did react with the antibody. Rate-zonal centrifugation showed that the MUC5AC mucin from the surface epithelium is smaller than the major submucosal mucin, and that both are composed of subunits. Immunolocalization confirmed that the MUC5AC mucin from human trachea originates from the goblet cells and that this glycoprotein is not a major product of the submucosal glands.

The denaturation and degradation of stable enzymes at high temperatures

Abstract: Now that enzymes are available that are stable above 100 °C it is possible to investigate conformational stability at this temperature, and also the effect of high-temperature degradative reactions in functioning enzymes and the inter-relationship between degradation and denaturation. The conformational stability of proteins depends upon stabilizing forces arising from a large number of weak interactions, which are opposed by an almost equally large destabilizing force due mostly to conformational entropy. The difference between these, the net free energy of stabilization, is relatively small, equivalent to a few interactions. The enhanced stability of very stable proteins can be achieved by an additional stabilizing force which is again equivalent to only a few stabilizing interactions. There is currently no strong evidence that any particular interaction (e.g. hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions) plays a more important role in proteins that are stable at 100 °C than in those stable at 50 °C, or that the structures of very stable proteins are systematically different from those of less stable proteins. The major degradative mechanisms are deamidation of asparagine and glutamine, and succinamide formation at aspartate and glutamate leading to peptide bond hydrolysis. In addition to being temperature-dependent, these reactions are strongly dependent upon the conformational freedom of the susceptible amino acid residues. Evidence is accumulating which suggests that even at 100 °C deamidation and succinamide formation proceed slowly or not at all in conformationally intact (native) enzymes. Whether this is the case at higher temperatures is not yet clear, so it is not known whether denaturation or degradation will set the upper limit of stability for enzymes.

Reducing sugars trigger oxidative modification and apoptosis in pancreatic beta-cells by provoking oxidative stress through the glycation reaction.

Abstract: Several reducing sugars brought about apoptosis in isolated rat pancreatic islet cells and in the pancreatic beta-cell-derived cell line HIT. This apoptosis was characterized biochemically by inter-nucleosomal DNA cleavage and morphologically by nuclear shrinkage, chromatin condensation and apoptotic body formation. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine, an antioxidant, and aminoguanidine, an inhibitor of the glycation reaction, inhibited this apoptosis. We also showed directly that proteins in beta-cells were actually glycated by using an antibody which can specifically recognize proteins glycated by fructose, but not by glucose. Furthermore, fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis using dichlorofluorescein diacetate showed that reducing sugars increased intracellular peroxide levels prior to the induction of apoptosis. Levels of carbonyl, an index of oxidative modification, and of malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation product, were also increased. Taken together, these results suggest that reducing sugars trigger oxidative modification and apoptosis in pancreatic beta-cells by provoking oxidative stress mainly through the glycation reaction, which may explain the deterioration of beta-cells under conditions of diabetes.

The inter-alpha-inhibitor family : from structure to regulation

Abstract: Inter-alpha-inhibitor (IalphaI) and related molecules, collectively referred to as the IalphaI family, are a group of plasma protease inhibitors. They display attractive features such as precursor polypeptides that give rise to mature chains with quite distinct fates and functions, and inter-chain glycosaminoglycan bonds within the various molecules. The discovery of an ever growing number of such molecules has raised pertinent questions about their pathophysiological functions. The knowledge of this family has long been structure-oriented, whereas the structure/function and structure/regulation relationships of the family members and their genes have been largely ignored. These relationships are now being elucidated in events such as gene transcription, precursor processing, changes in plasma protein levels in health and disease and binding capacities that involve hyaluronan as well as other plasma proteins as ligands. This review presents some recent progress made in these fields that paves the way for an understanding of the functions of IalphaI family members in vivo. Finally, given the wealth of heterogeneous, complicated and sometimes contradictory nomenclatures and acronyms currently in use for this family, a new, uniform, nomenclature is proposed for IalphaI family genes, precursor polypeptides and assembled proteins.

Divergent regulation by growth factors and cytokines of 95 kDa and 72 kDa gelatinases and tissue inhibitors or metalloproteinases-1, -2, and -3 in rabbit aortic smooth muscle cells.

Abstract: The migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) during neointima formation in atherosclerosis and angioplasty restenosis is mediated by certain growth factors and cytokines, one action of which may be to promote basement-membrane degradation. To test this hypothesis further, the effects of such growth factors and cytokines on the synthesis of two basement-membrane-degrading metalloproteinases, namely the 72 kDa gelatinase (MMP-2, gelatinase A) and the 95 kDa gelatinase (MMP-9, gelatinase B) and three tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) was studied in primary cultured rabbit aortic SMCs. Expression of the 95 kDa gelatinase was increased by phorbol myristate acetate, foetal calf serum, thrombin and interleukin-1α (IL-1α); platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) BB alone had no effect but acted synergistically with IL-1α. A selective protein kinase C inhibitor, Ro 31-8220, abolished induction of the 95 kDa gelatinase. In contrast, none of the agents tested modulated the synthesis of the 72 kDa gelatinase. We conclude that maximal up-regulation of 95 kDa gelatinase expression requires the concerted action of growth factors and inflammatory cytokines mediated, in part, by a protein kinase C-dependent pathway. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were highly expressed, and their synthesis was not affected by growth factors or cytokines. Expression of TIMP-3 mRNAs was, however, increased by PDGF and transforming growth factor β, especially in combination. Divergent regulation of gelatinase and TIMP expression implies that either net synthesis or net degradation of basement membrane can be mediated by appropriate combinations of growth factors and cytokines.

Apoptosis induction resulting from proteasome inhibition

Abstract: Proteases are known to be involved in the apoptotic pathway. We report here that benzyloxycarbonyl (Z)-Leu-Leu-leucinal(ZLLLal), a leupeptin analogue, can induce apoptosis in MOLT-4 and L5178Y cells. ZLLLal is a cell-permeant inhibitor of proteasome. Among the protease inhibitors tested, only calpain inhibitor I (acetyl-Leu-Leu-norleucinal) and ZLLLal caused a marked induction of apoptosis in MOLT-4 cells. In contrast Z-Leu-leucinal, a specific inhibitor of calpain, did not induce apoptosis. When MOLT-4 cells were incubated in the presence of ZLLLal, p53 accumulated in the cells. These results strongly suggest that inhibition of proteasome induces p53-dependent apoptosis and that proteasome can protect cell from apoptosis.