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R Seifert

Publications and source records attributed to R Seifert.

At least 91 records · Page 5Linked to original sources

Synthetic lipopeptide Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 is an effective activator of human platelets.

Lipopeptide analogues of the NH2-terminus of bacterial lipoprotein are known to induce activation of macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. We studied the effect of the lipopeptide N-palmitoyl-S-[2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)-(2RS)-propyl]-(R)-cysteinyl-( S)-seryl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysine [Pam3CysSer(Lys)4] on several functions of human platelets. Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 led to the aggregation of platelets and induced the secretion of serotonin with an effectiveness similar to thrombin. These cellular effects of Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 were concentration dependent, being half maximal at 2-3 microM and maximal at 10-30 microM. Another lipopeptide also induced platelet aggregation and serotonin secretion but was less potent and less effective than Pam3CysSer(Lys)4. The lipid moiety and the peptide moiety of Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 alone were without any effect. Lipopeptides also stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins with molecular masses similar to those found to be tyrosine phosphorylated in response to thrombin, and Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 led to an increase in the cytosolic calcium concentration. All studied responses of platelets to lipopeptides were inhibited by the prostacyclin receptor agonist cicaprost. Taken together, our data show that lipopeptides are effective activators of human platelets and that this activation is susceptible to the action of physiological platelet inhibitors.

Blood Platelets↗

Violent incidents in a psychiatric intensive care unit.

A prospective study was undertaken of physical assaults over six months in a newly opened psychiatric intensive care unit. There were 58 admissions of 48 patients, and 37 assaults, three against other patients, and 34 against nursing and medical staff. Features which correlated with committing assault were a criminal record and previous drug abuse. Assaults occurred most frequently during the week, at times when staff were actively involved with the patients.

Adolescent↗

The H1 receptor agonist 2-(3-chlorophenyl)histamine activates Gi proteins in HL-60 cells through a mechanism that is independent of known histamine receptor subtypes.

In dibutyryl-cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells, histamine H1 and formyl peptide receptors mediate increases in the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) via pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins of the Gi family. We compared the effects of 2-(3-chlorophenyl)-histamine (CPH) [2-[2-(3-chlorophenyl)-1H-imidazol-4-yl] ethanamine], one of the most potent and selective H1 receptor agonists presently available, with those of histamine and N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMLP) in these cells. CPH increased [Ca2+]i through Ca2+ mobilization and Ca2+ influx. Unlike histamine-induced rises in [Ca2+]i, those induced by CPH were not desensitized in a homologous manner, and there was no cross-desensitization between CPH and histamine. Like fMLP, CPH activated phospholipases C and D, tyrosine phosphorylation, superoxide anion formation, and azurophilic granule release. The effects of CPH on [Ca2+]i, phospholipase D, and superoxide anion formation were inhibited by pertussis toxin. CPH and fMLP stimulated high affinity GTP hydrolysis by Gi proteins in HL-60 membranes. They also enhanced binding of guanosine-5'-O-(3-thio)triphosphate and GTP azidoanilide to, and cholera toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of, Gi protein alpha subunits. Histamine receptor antagonists did not inhibit the stimulatory effects of CPH, and CPH did not reduce fMLP binding in HL-60 membranes. Our data suggest that CPH activates Gi proteins in HL-60 cells through a receptor agonist-like mechanism that is, however, independent of known histamine receptor subtypes and formyl peptide receptors. CPH may be an agonist at an as yet unknown histamine receptor subtype or, by analogy with other cationic-amphiphilic substances, may activate G proteins directly. Future studies will have to take into consideration the fact that CPH, in addition to activating H1 receptors, may show other, most unexpected, stimulatory effects on G protein-mediated signal transduction processes.

Calcium↗

Lipopeptides activate Gi-proteins in dibutyryl cyclic AMP-differentiated HL-60 cells.

Synthetic lipopeptides activate superoxide-anion (O2-) formation in human neutrophils in a pertussis-toxin (PTX)-sensitive manner, suggesting the involvement of G-proteins of the Gi family in the signal-transduction pathway. We compared G-protein activation by lipopeptides and the chemotactic peptide N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) in dibutyryl-cyclic-AMP-differentiated HL-60 cells. The lipopeptide (2S)-2-palmitoylamino-6-palmitoyloxymethyl-7-palmitoyloxy heptanoyl-SK4 (Pam3AhhSK4) and fMLP activated high-affinity GTPase, i.e. the enzymic activity of G-protein alpha-subunits, in HL-60 membranes in a time- and protein-dependent manner, but they had no effect on Mg(2+)-ATPase and Na+/K(+)-ATPase. Pam3AhhSK4 and fMLP increased Vmax. of GTP hydrolysis. Pam3AhhSK4 activated GTP hydrolysis with half-maximal and maximal effects at about 2 microM and 10 microM respectively. Other lipopeptides activated GTP hydrolysis as well. Lipopeptides were less effective than fMLP to activate GTPase. In membranes from PTX-treated cells, the stimulatory effects of lipopeptides and fMLP on GTPase were abolished. In N-ethylmaleimide-treated membranes, the relative stimulatory effect of Pam3AhhSK4 on GTP hydrolysis was enhanced, whereas that of fMLP was diminished. fMLP and Pam3AhhSK4 activated GTPase in an over-additive manner in N-ethylmaleimide-treated membranes. Unlike fMLP, Pam3AhhSK4 did not enhance incorporation of GTP azidoanilide into, and cholera-toxin-catalysed ADP-ribosylation of Gi-protein alpha-subunits in, HL-60 membranes and did not induce rises in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. Pam3AhhSK4 and fMLP stimulated phosphatidic acid formation in a PTX-sensitive manner. Pam3AhhSK4 itself did not activate O2- formation, but potentiated the stimulatory effects of fMLP. Our data suggest that (i) lipopeptides activate the GTPase of Gi-proteins, (ii) lipopeptides and fMLP activate Gi-proteins differently, (iii) lipopeptides stimulate phospholipase D via Gi-proteins, and (iv) phosphatidic acid formation is not sufficient for activation of O2- formation.

Adenosine Diphosphate Ribose↗

Cyclosporin H is a potent and selective formyl peptide receptor antagonist. Comparison with N-t-butoxycarbonyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanyl-L- leucyl-L-phenylalanine and cyclosporins A, B, C, D, and E.

The cyclic undecapeptide, cyclosporin (Cs) H, is a potent inhibitor of FMLP-induced superoxide anion (O2-) formation in human neutrophils. We studied the effects of CsH in comparison with those of N-t-butoxycarbonyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-leucyl-L- phenylalanine (BocPLPLP), a well known formyl peptide receptor antagonist, and of other Cs on activation of N6,2'-O-dibutyryl adenosine 3:5'-monophosphate-differentiated HL-60 cells and human erythroleukemia cells (HEL cells). CsH inhibited FMLP binding in HL-60 membranes with a Ki (inhibition constant) of 0.10 microM. CsH inhibited activation by FMLP of high affinity GTPase (the enzymatic activity of alpha-subunits of heterotrimeric regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins) in HL-60 membranes with a Ki of 0.79 microM. CsH inhibited the stimulatory effects of FMLP on cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), O2- formation, and beta-glucuronidase release with Ki values of 0.08, 0.24, and 0.45 microM, respectively. BocPLPLP was 14-fold less potent than CsH in inhibiting FMLP binding and 4- to 6-fold less potent than CsH in inhibiting FMLP-induced GTP hydrolysis, rises in [Ca2+]i, O2- formation, and beta-glucuronidase release. CsA reduced FMLP-induced O2- formation by 20%, but CsB, CsC, CsD, and CsE did not. CsA, CsB, CsC, CsD, and CsE did not affect FMLP-induced rises in [Ca2+]i. BocPLPLP inhibited leukotriene B4-induced rises in [Ca2+]i with a Ki of 0.33 microM, whereas CsH showed no inhibitory effect. CsH and BocPLPLP did not inhibit the rises in [Ca2+]i induced by several other stimuli in HL-60 cells and HEL cells. Our results show that 1) CsH is a more potent formyl peptide receptor antagonist than BocPLPLP; 2) unlike BocPLPLP, CsH is selective; and 3) N-methyl-D-valine which is present at position 11 of the amino acid sequence of CsH but not of other Cs is crucial for FMLP antagonism.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Preparations of Rp-cyclic adenosine 3',5'-phosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPS) can contain biologically active amounts of adenosine.

Superoxide anion (O2-.) production from human neutrophils stimulated by N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMLP, 1 microM) was inhibited by preparations of the inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, Rp-cyclic adenosine 3',5'-phosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPS, 100 microM). This effect of Rp-cAMPS was reversed by xanthine amine congener (0.1 microM), an adenosine receptor antagonist, and by low concentrations of adenosine desaminase (0.02 mg/ml). HPLC analysis shows that these preparations of Rp-cAMPS contained concentrations of adenosine which could produce significant inhibition of fMLP-induced O2-. production. These results suggest that Rp-cAMPS should be used with caution in cells or tissues containing adenosine receptors, and that preparations of Rp-cAMPS should be treated with adenosine desaminase before use to avoid activation of adenosine receptors.

Adenosine↗

Partial inhibition of human neutrophil activation by FK-506 at supratherapeutic concentrations.

The macrolide, FK-506, is a potent and effective inhibitor of lymphocyte activation. We studied the effects of FK-506 on human neutrophil activation induced by chemoattractants and by various substances which circumvent receptor stimulation. After preincubation for 5 min at 37 degrees C, FK-506 (1 microM) inhibited N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMet-Leu-Phe)- or platelet-activating factor-induced superoxide production in neutrophils by about 30%. At therapeutic concentrations (0.1-1 nM) FK-506 was ineffective. FK-506 did not inhibit exocytosis and rises in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i mediated by these stimuli, and it did not at all inhibit neutrophil activation induced by C5a, leukotriene B4 and 4 beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. FK-506 (1 microM) inhibited A23187-induced exocytosis by about 35%, but A23187-induced superoxide production was unaffected. After preincubation for 5 min at 37 degrees C, FK-506 inhibited fMet-Leu-Phe-induced superoxide production in dibutyryl cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells by about 20%; preincubation with the drug for 24 h did not result in inhibition of superoxide production. FK-506 did not inhibit agonist-binding to formyl peptide receptors and fMet-Leu-Phe-stimulated GTP hydrolysis of heterotrimeric regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G-proteins) in membranes from dibutyryl cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells. FK-506 did not change steady-state and differential polarized phase fluorescence in HL-60 membranes using 1,6-diphenylhexa-1,3,5-triene and 12-(9-anthroyloxy)-stearate as probes. Our results show that FK-506 at supratherapeutic concentrations partially inhibits neutrophil activation. Inhibition by FK-506 of fMet-Leu-Phe-induced superoxide production is rapid in onset and is not due to inhibition of agonist-binding to receptors, interference with G-proteins or protein kinase C, reduction of rises in [Ca2+]i or alteration in physical membrane state.

Adult↗

The avian prechordal head region: a morphological study.

The axial mesoderm of the anterior head region was investigated in young chick and quail embryos by light and electron microscopy. Semithin sections showed that the axial head mesoderm consists of the head process and prechordal mesoderm. At the anterior end of the prechordal mesoderm, a group of columnar epithelial cells formed a pit-like structure. The bases of these columnar cells extended to the neural plate, thus limiting the prechordal mesoderm anteriorly. The cells lining the pit-like structure at its anterior end joined a cell accumulation made up of cells of mesenchymal character. Electron microscopy revealed that the columnar cells forming the pit-like structure were covered by a basal lamina which was discontinuous on its anterior aspect. No basal lamina was recognisable between the columnar epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells joining them anteriorly. The columnar epithelial cells bordering the prechordal mesoderm anteriorly were therefore assumed to be part of the endodermal germ layer. In agreement with the findings of other authors, it is proposed to term these axially located columnar cells of the endoderm the prechordal plate and to distinguish them from the prechordal mesoderm arising during gastrulation. For the mesenchymal cell accumulation anterior to the prechordal plate, participation in the formation of the prosencephalic mesenchyme is assumed. This implies that the definitive endodermal germ layer, like the ectodermal one represented by the neural crest, may also be able to contribute to mesenchyme formation in the head.

Animals↗

Formyl peptides and ATP stimulate Ca2+ and Na+ inward currents through non-selective cation channels via G-proteins in dibutyryl cyclic AMP-differentiated HL-60 cells. Involvement of Ca2+ and Na+ in the activation of beta-glucuronidase release and superoxide production.

In human neutrophils, the chemotactic peptide N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMLP) induces increases in the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) with subsequent activation of beta-glucuronidase release and superoxide (O2-) production. Results from several laboratories suggest that the increase in [Ca2+]i is due to activation of non-selective cation (NSC) channels. We studied the biophysical characteristics, pharmacological modulation and functional role of NSC channels in dibutyryl cyclic AMP (Bt2cAMP)-differentiated HL-60 cells. fMLP increased [Ca2+]i by release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular space. fMLP also induced Mn2+ influx. Ca2+ and Mn2+ influxes were inhibited by 1-(beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl)-1H-imidazole hydrochloride (SK&F 96365). Under whole-cell voltage-clamp conditions, fMLP and ATP (a purinoceptor agonist) activated inward currents characterized by a linear current-voltage relationship and a reversal potential near 0 mV. NSC channels were substantially more permeable to Na+ than to Ca2+. SK&F 96365 inhibited fMLP- and ATP-stimulated currents with a half-maximal effect at about 3 microM. Pertussis toxin prevented stimulation by fMLP of NSC currents and reduced ATP-stimulated currents by about 80%. Intracellular application of the stable GDP analogue, guanosine 5'-O-[2-thio]diphosphate, completely blocked stimulation by agonists of NSC currents. In excised inside-out patches, single channel openings with an amplitude of 0.24 pA were observed in the presence of fMLP and the GTP analogue, guanosine 5'-O-[3-thio]triphosphate. The bath solution contained neither Ca2+ nor ATP. The current/voltage relationship was linear with a conductance of 4-5 pS and reversed at about 0 mV. fMLP-induced beta-glucuronidase release and O2- production were substantially reduced by replacement of extracellular CaCl2 or NaCl by ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)tetra-acetic acid and choline chloride respectively. In the absence of Ca2+ and Na+, fMLP was ineffective. SK&F 96365 inhibited fMLP-induced beta-glucuronidase release and O2- production in the presence of both Ca2+ and Na+, and in the presence of Ca2+ or Na+ alone. NaCl (25-50 mM) enhanced the basal and absolute extent of fMLP-stimulated GTP hydrolysis of heterotrimeric regulatory G-proteins in HL-60 membranes. The order of effectiveness of salts in enhancing GTP hydrolysis was LiCl > KCl > NaCl > choline chloride.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Adenosine Triphosphate↗

Molsidomine inhibits the chemoattractant-induced respiratory burst in human neutrophils via a no-independent mechanism.

3-Morpholino-sydnonimine (SIN-1) is a NO-releasing compound which mimics the effects of cGMP through activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase. Its prodrug, molsidomine (SIN-10), does not release NO but does modulate various cell functions. These findings prompted us to study the effects of SIN-10 and SIN-1 on the respiratory burst in human neutrophils. SIN-10 was more effective than SIN-1 in inhibiting superoxide anion (O2-) formation induced by N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMet-Leu-Phe) and by C5a. The effects of SIN-1 and SIN-10 on O2- formation were additive or less than additive, indicating the sydnonimines acted through a common mechanism. The sydnonimines showed no effect on O2- formations induced by gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane, arachidonic acid and a phorbol ester. They did not inhibit O2- formation induced by xanthine oxidase, by autoxidation of pyrogallol and in a cell-free system from HL-60 leukemic cells. Neutrophils did not convert SIN-10 to SIN-1 as assessed by O2 consumption which accompanies NO release from SIN-1. The cell-permeant analogue of cGMP, N2,2'-O-dibutyryl guanosine 3':5'-monophosphate (Bt2cGMP), and SIN-10 but not SIN-1 inhibited fMet-Leu-Phe-induced O2 consumption. SIN-1 and SIN-10 slightly enhanced agonist binding to formyl peptide receptors, whereas Bt2cGMP was inhibitory. The sydnonimines did not affect GTP hydrolysis of heterotrimeric regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins in HL-60 membranes. SIN-1 but not SIN-10 stimulated ADP-ribosylation of a 39-kDa protein in the cytosol of HL-60 cells. SIN-10 reduced fMet-Leu-Phe-induced rises in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in neutrophils. These data suggest that SIN-10 inhibits the respiratory burst via a NO-independent mechanism which may involve inhibition of rises in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration.

Acetates↗

Generation of specific antibodies against the rap1A, rap1B and rap2 small GTP-binding proteins. Analysis of rap and ras proteins in membranes from mammalian cells.

Specific antibodies against rap1A and rap1B small GTP-binding proteins were generated by immunization of rabbits with peptides derived from the C-terminus of the processed proteins. Immunoblot analysis of membranes from several mammalian cell lines and human thrombocytes with affinity-purified antibodies against rap1A or rap1B demonstrated the presence of multiple immunoreactive proteins in the 22-23 kDa range, although at strongly varying levels. Whereas both proteins were present in substantial amounts in membranes from myelocytic HL-60, K-562 and HEL cells, they were hardly detectable in membranes from lymphoma U-937 and S49.1 cyc- cells. Membranes from human thrombocytes and 3T3-Swiss Albino fibroblasts showed strong rap1B immunoreactivity, whereas rap1A protein was present in much lower amounts. In the cytosol of HL-60 cells, only small amounts of rap1A and rap1B proteins were detected, unless the cells were treated with lovastatin, an inhibitor of hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, suggesting that both proteins are isoprenylated. By comparison with recombinant proteins, the ratio of rap1A/ras proteins in membranes from HL-60 cells was estimated to be about 4:1. An antiserum directed against the C-terminus of rap2 reacted strongly with recombinant rap2, but not with membranes from tested mammalian cells. In conclusion, rap1A and rap1B proteins are distributed differentially among membranes from various mammalian cell types and are isoprenylated in HL-60 cells.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Lipopeptides are effective stimulators of tyrosine phosphorylation in human myeloid cells.

Synthetic lipopeptide analogues of the N-terminus of bacterial lipoprotein are effective activators of macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes. We studied the effect of the lipopeptide N-palmitoyl-S-[2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)-(2RS)-propyl]- (R)-cysteinyl-(S)-seryl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysine [Pam3Cys-Ser-(Lys)4] on tyrosine phosphorylation in dibutyryl-cyclic-AMP-differentiated HL-60 cells, using anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies. Pam3Cys-Ser-(Lys)4 concentration-dependently stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of 100/110 kDa and 60 kDa proteins and, to a lesser extent, of 55 kDa and 70/75 kDa proteins. Half-maximal and maximal effects were observed at concentrations of 1-6 and 5-50 micrograms/ml respectively. The lipopeptide-induced increase in phosphorylation was rapid and transient, with a peak response after 30-60 s. The lipopeptide (2S)-2-palmitoylamino-6-palmitoyloxymethyl-7-palmitoyloxy heptanoyl-Ser-(Lys)4 [Pam3Ahh-Ser-(Lys)4] was as potent as Pam3Cys-Ser(Lys)4, whereas (2S,6S)-2-palmitoylamino-6,7-bis(palmitoyloxy)heptanoyl++ +-Ser-(Lys)4 [Pam3Adh-Ser-(Lys)4] and Pam3Cys-Ser-Gly did not induce tyrosine phosphorylation. Lipopeptide-induced tyrosine phosphorylation was not affected by treatment of cells with pertussis toxin. Neither phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate nor A23187 induced tyrosine phosphorylation in dibutyryl-cyclic-AMP-differentiated HL-60 cells. In HL-60 promyelocytes, Pam3Cys-Ser-(Lys)4 had no effect on tyrosine phosphorylation, whereas the lipopeptide also induced tyrosine phosphorylation in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin-D3-differentiated HL-60 cells and in human neutrophils. These results show that lipopeptides are effective stimulators of tyrosine phosphorylation in mature human myeloid cells.

Blotting, Western↗

Receptor-mediated increases in cytosolic Ca2+ in the human erythroleukaemia cell line involve pertussis toxin-sensitive and -insensitive pathways.

The pluripotent human erythroleukaemia cell line, HEL, possesses erythrocytic, megakaryocytic and macrophage-like properties. With respect to signal transduction, HEL cells have been used as a model system for platelets, but little attention has been paid to their phagocytic properties. We studied the effects of various receptor agonists on the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in HEL cells. Thrombin, platelet-activating factor (PAF), ATP, UTP, prostaglandins E1 and E2 (PGE1 and PGE2), the PGE2 analogue sulprostone and the stable PGI2 analogues iloprost and cicaprost increased [Ca2+]i. ADP was less effective than ATP, and UDP was unable to increase [Ca2+]i. The increases in [Ca2+]i induced by thrombin, PAF, ATP, UTP, iloprost and cicaprost were pertussis toxin-insensitive, whereas the increases induced by PGE2 and sulprostone were completely inhibited by the toxin. The increase in [Ca2+]i induced by PGE1 was partially inhibited by pertussis toxin. PGE2 did not desensitize the increase in [Ca2+]i induced by iloprost, and vice versa. PGE1 desensitized the response to PGE2 and iloprost but not vice versa. Adrenaline potentiated the iloprost- but not the PGE2-induced rise in [Ca2+]i. The phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate completely blocked the rise in [Ca2+]i induced by ATP and PGE1, whereas the increases induced by thrombin and PAF were only partially inhibited. Agonists increased [Ca2+]i through release from internal stores and sustained Ca2+ influx. Thrombin stimulated Mn2+ influx, which was blocked by Ni2+. Diltiazem, isradipine, gramicidin and 1-(beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl)-1H-imidazole hydrochloride (SK&F 96365) did not affect agonist-induced rises in [Ca2+]i. HEL cells contained substantial amounts of beta-glucuronidase which, however, could not be released, and they did not aggregate or generate superoxide. Our data suggest that: (1) HEL cells possess nucleotide receptors with properties similar to those of phagocytes; (2) they possess receptors for PGE2 and PGI2, and PGE1 is an agonist at both receptors; (3) agonist-induced increases in [Ca2+]i are mediated through pertussis toxin-sensitive as well as -insensitive signal transduction pathways; and (4) agonists increase [Ca2+]i by mobilization from internal stores and influx from the extracellular space through cation channels with properties similar to those of phagocytes and platelets.

Adenosine Triphosphate↗

Incomplete functional differentiation of HL-60 leukemic cells by synthetic lipopeptides. Partial inhibition by pertussis toxin of enhanced superoxide formation.

In human neutrophils, the synthetic lipopeptide, N-palmitoyl-S-[2,3- bis(palmitoyloxy-(2RS)-propyl]-(R)-cysteinyl-(S)-seryl-(S)-lysyl-( S)-lysyl-(S) -lysyl-(S)-lysine [Pam3CysSer(Lys)4], activates NADPH-oxidase catalyzed superoxide (O2-) formation through pertussis-toxin-sensitive and pertussis-toxin-insensitive mechanisms (Seifert, R., Schultz, G., Richter-Freund, M., Metzger, J., Wiesmüller, K.-H., Jung, G., Bessler, W. G. & Hauschildt, S. (1990) Biochem. J. 267, 795-802). We studied the effects of lipopeptides on differentiation of HL-60 leukemic cells. Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 enhanced phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-induced O2- formation (presumably through the expression of components of NADPH oxidase) in a concentration-dependent manner with a half-maximal effect at 100 ng/ml and a maximum at 1 microgram/ml. The effect of the lipopeptide was evident after 24 h and reached a plateau after 48 h. (2S,6S)-2-Palmitoylamino-6,7- bis(palmitoyloxy)heptanoyl-(S)-seryl-(S)-lysyl-(S)-lysyl-(S) -lysyl-(S)-lysine enhanced O2- formation as well. The effects of Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 were potentiated by dibutyryl cAMP, dimethyl sulfoxide, retinoic acid, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, interferon-gamma and tumor-necrosis-factor-alpha. Pertussis toxin, but not its B-oligomer, partially inhibited enhanced O2- formation induced by Pam3CysSer(Lys)4. O2- formation induced by arachidonic acid and gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane were more sensitive to inhibition by pertussis toxin than O2- formation induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Enhanced O2- formation induced by dibutyryl cAMP was not affected by pertussis toxin. Unlike ATP, histamine, prostaglandin E1 and the beta-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol, Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 did not increase cytosolic Ca2+ [( Ca2+]i) in undifferentiated HL-60 cells. Histamine but not lipopeptides stimulated high-affinity GTPase of guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins in membranes of undifferentiated HL-60 cells. In Pam3CysSer(Lys)4-differentiated HL-60 cells, the responsiveness to the [Ca2+]i-increasing agonists, N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine, C5a and leukotriene B4, was increased, whilst the responsiveness to prostaglandin E1 and isoproterenol was decreased. Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 did not inhibit proliferation of HL-60 cells but decreased transferrin receptor expression and increased C3bi receptor expression. Pertussis toxin did not affect proliferation and expression of transferrin and C3bi receptors. Dibutyryl cAMP was considerably more effective than Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 at inducing alterations in the above parameters. Our results suggest that (a) Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 induces incomplete functional differentiation of HL-60 cells through a mechanism which does not depend on a rise in [Ca2+]i and is different from that of other differentiation-inducing substances and (b) the mechanism by which Pam3CysSer(Lys)4 induces differentiation involves pertussis-toxin-sensitive and pertussis-toxin-insensitive mechanisms.

Bucladesine↗

Cytokinetic studies on the aortic endothelium and limb bud vascularization in avian embryos.

Cytokinetic studies on the aortic endothelium using the BrdU/anti-BrdU-method were carried out on 2.5- to 6-day chick and quail embryos. The mitotic activity of the aortic endothelium is related temporally to the age of the avian embryo and spatially to the embryonic region where the aorta originates. The mitotic activity of the aortic endothelium decreases with increasing age of the embryos. In the limb buds, however, the mitotic rate of the aortic endothelial cells increases independently of the age of the embryo. This increase in the mitotic activity of the aortic endothelium at the appropriate levels coincides with the vascularization of the outgrowing limb buds. We concluded therefore that the aortic endothelium probably supplies endothelial cells for the formation of limb vessels at this stage. Thus our results suggest that angiogenesis (sprouting of capillaries from pre-existing vessels) takes place during limb vascularization in avian embryos. On the other hand, immunohistochemical studies with QH-1 or MB-1 antibody show, beside a capillary network in the central core of the wing bud, individual immunolabelled cells of mesenchymal character within the primarily avascular subectodermal region from the onset of vascularization onwards. We suggest that these cells have partly to be regarded as endothelial precursor cells, which have differentiated in situ from the local limb mesenchyme, and which will contribute to the developing vascular plexus. This means that not only angiogenesis, but also vasculogenesis (in situ from mesenchymal precursors differentiated endothelial cells) appears to be involved in limb vessel formation.

Animals↗

The prostacyclin analogues, cicaprost and iloprost, increase cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in the human erythroleukemia cell line, HEL, via pertussis toxin-insensitive G-proteins.

In the human erythroleukemia cell line, HEL, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and the stable prostacyclin analogue, iloprost, increase cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) via pertussis toxin-sensitive and -insensitive pathways. Unlike iloprost, the stable prostacyclin analogue cicaprost (ZK 96480), is devoid of agonistic properties at prostaglandin E2 receptors. We compared the effects of cicaprost, iloprost and PGE2 on [Ca2+]i in HEL cells. Cicaprost, iloprost and PGE2 were similarly potent to increase [Ca2+]i in HEL cells. However, unlike the effects of PGE2, those of the prostacyclin analogues were not inhibited by pertussis toxin. The prostaglandins studied increased [Ca2+]i through both mobilization from internal stores and Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space. Prostacyclin analogue- and PGE2-induced rises in [Ca2+]i were desensitized in a homologous manner. Additionally, there was cross-desensitization between cicaprost and iloprost, but not between the prostacyclin analogues and PGE2. Our data suggest that in HEL cells (i) cicaprost and iloprost act through prostacyclin receptors and (ii) that these receptors couple to pertussis toxin-insensitive heterotrimeric regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins, (iii) resulting in an increase in [Ca2+]i by Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores and sustained influx.

Calcium↗

Histamine increases cytosolic Ca2+ in dibutyryl-cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells via H1 receptors and is an incomplete secretagogue.

Human neutrophils and dibutyryl-cAMP (Bt2cAMP)-differentiated HL-60 cells possess receptors for the chemotactic peptide N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (fMet-Leu-Phe), which mediate activation of phospholipase C, with subsequent increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and activation of specific cell functions. In many cell types, histamine, via H1 receptors, activates phospholipase C, but it is unknown whether neutrophilic cells possess functional H1 receptors. We compared the effects of histamine with those of fMet-Leu-Phe on activation of these cells. In Bt2cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells, substances increased [Ca2+]i in the effectiveness order fMet-Leu-Phe greater than histamine greater than betahistine. Pertussis toxin diminished fMet-Leu-Phe-induced rises in [Ca2+]i to a greater extent than those induced by histamine. H1 but not H2 antagonists inhibited histamine- and betahistine-induced rises in [Ca2+]i. fMet-Leu-Phe and histamine activated phospholipase C and increased [Ca2+]i through release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and sustained influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular space. The substances also induced Mn2+ influx. Ca2+ and Mn2+ influxes were inhibited by 1-(beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxyl]-4-methoxyphenethyl)-1H-imida zole hydrochloride (SK&F 96365). The stimulatory effects of histamine on [Ca2+]i were more sensitive to inhibition by 4 beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate than were those of fMet-Leu-Phe. Unlike fMet-Leu-Phe, histamine did not activate superoxide anion formation, release of beta-glucuronidase, and tyrosine phosphorylation. In neutrophils, histamine and betahistine did not induce rises in [Ca2+]i. Our data show that (i) in Bt2cAMP-differentiated HL-60 cells, histamine increases [Ca2+]i via H1 receptors coupled to pertussis toxin-sensitive and possibly, pertussis toxin-insensitive heterotrimeric regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins, (ii) histamine activates nonselective cation channels, and (iii) unlike fMet-Leu-Phe, histamine is an incomplete secretagogue.

Betahistine↗