AJP: Endocrinology and Metabolism current issue

Follicular origins of modern reproductive endocrinology

Stephens, S. M., Moley, K. H. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

This essay looks at the historical significance of the APS Classic Paper: Allen E, Doisy EA. The induction of a sexually mature condition in immature females by injection of the ovarian follicular hormone. Am J Physiol 69: 577–588, 1924 (http://ajplegacy.physiology.org/cgi/reprint/69/3/577).

The search for the membrane thyroid hormone receptor

Samson, W. K. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

Translational implications of nongenomic actions of thyroid hormone initiated at its integrin receptor

Davis, P. J., Davis, F. B., Lin, H.-Y., Mousa, S. A., Zhou, M., Luidens, M. K. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

A thyroid hormone receptor on integrin vβ3 that mediates cell surface-initiated nongenomic actions of thyroid hormone on tumor cell proliferation and on angiogenesis has been described. Transduction of the hormone signal into these recently recognized proliferative effects is by extracellular-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2). Other nongenomic actions of the hormone may be transduced by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and are initiated in cytoplasm or at the cell surface. PI3K-mediated effects are important to angiogenesis or other recently appreciated cell functions but apparently not to tumor cell division. For those actions of thyroid hormone [l-thyroxine (T₄) and 3,3'-5-triiodo-l-thyronine (T₃)] that begin at the integrin receptor, tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac) is an inhibitor of and probe for the participation of the receptor in downstream intracellular events. In addition, tetrac has actions initiated at the integrin receptor that are unrelated to inhibition of the effects of T₄ and T₃ but do involve gene transcription in tumor cells. Discussed here are the implications of translating these nongenomic mechanisms of thyroid hormone analogs into clinical cancer cell biology, tumor-related angiogenesis, and modulation of angiogenesis that is not related to cancer.

Recent advances in understanding leptin signaling and leptin resistance

Morris, D. L., Rui, L. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

The brain controls energy homeostasis and body weight by integrating various metabolic signals. Leptin, an adipose-derived hormone, conveys critical information about peripheral energy storage and availability to the brain. Leptin decreases body weight by both suppressing appetite and promoting energy expenditure. Leptin directly targets hypothalamic neurons, including AgRP and POMC neurons. These leptin-responsive neurons widely connect to other neurons in the brain, forming a sophisticated neurocircuitry that controls energy intake and expenditure. The anorexigenic actions of leptin are mediated by LEPRb, the long form of the leptin receptor, in the hypothalamus. LEPRb activates both JAK2-dependent and -independent pathways, including the STAT3, PI 3-kinase, MAPK, AMPK, and mTOR pathways. These pathways act coordinately to form a network that fully mediates leptin response. LEPRb signaling is regulated by both positive (e.g., SH2B1) and negative (e.g., SOCS3 and PTP1B) regulators and by endoplasmic reticulum stress. Leptin resistance, a primary risk factor for obesity, likely results from impairment in leptin transport, LEPRb signaling, and/or the neurocircuitry of energy balance.

Short-term prednisone use antagonizes insulin's anabolic effect on muscle protein and glucose metabolism in young healthy people

Short, K. R., Bigelow, M. L., Nair, K. S. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

Glucocorticoids cause muscle atrophy and weakness, but the mechanisms for these effects are unclear. The purpose of this study was to test a hypothesis that prednisone (Pred) counteracts insulin's anabolic effects on muscle. A randomized, double-blind cross-over design was used to test the effects of 6 days either Pred (0.8 mg·kg^–1·day^–1) or placebo use in seven healthy young volunteers. Protein dynamics were measured across the leg using stable isotope tracers of leucine (Leu) and phenylalanine (Phe) after overnight fast and during a hyperinsulinemic (1.5 µU·min^–1·kg FFM^–1) euglycemic clamp with amino acid replacement. Fasting glucose, amino acids, insulin, and glucagon were higher (P < 0.01) on Pred vs. placebo, whereas leg blood flow was 18% lower. However, basal whole body and leg kinetics of Leu and Phe were unaltered by Pred. Insulin infusion increased leg glucose uptake in both trials but was 65% lower with Pred than with placebo. Insulin in both trials similarly suppressed whole body flux of Leu and Phe. Importantly, insulin increased net Leu and Phe balance across the leg and the balance between muscle protein synthesis and breakdown, but these changes were 45–140% lower (P < 0.03) in Pred than in placebo. The present study demonstrates that short-term Pred use in healthy people does not alter whole body or leg muscle protein metabolism during the postaborptive state but causes muscle insulin resistance for both glucose and amino acid metabolism, with a blunted protein anabolism. This interactive effect may lead to muscle atrophy with continued use of glucocorticoids.

Regulation of food intake and body weight by recombinant proghrelin

Zhang, W., Majumder, A., Wu, X., Mulholland, M. W. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

Ghrelin is a 28-amino-acid hormone derived from the endoproteolytic processing of its prehormone proghrelin. Although ghrelin has been reported to regulate food intake and body weight, it is still unknown whether proghrelin exercises any biological function. Here we show that recombinant proghrelin alters food intake and energy metabolism in mice. After intraperitoneal administration of recombinant proghrelin (100 nmol/kg body wt), cumulative food intake was significantly increased at days 1, 2, and 3 (6 ± 0.3, 13 ± 0.5, and 20 ± 0.8 g vs. 5 ± 0.2, 10 ± 0.2, and 16 ± 0.3 g of the control mice receiving normal saline, respectively, n = 6, P < 0.05). Twelve-hour cumulative food intake in the light photo period in mice treated with proghrelin increased significantly relative to the control (2.1 ± 0.04 vs. 1.3 ± 0.2 g, n = 6, P < 0.05). No change in 12-h cumulative food intake in the dark photo period was observed between mice treated with proghrelin and vehicle (4.2 ± 0.6 vs. 4.3 ± 0.6 g, n = 6, P > 0.05). This is associated with a decrease in body weight (0.42 ± 0.04 g) for mice treated with proghrelin, whereas control animals gained body weight (0.31 ± 0.04 g). Mice treated with proghrelin demonstrate a significant decrease in respiratory quotient, indicating an increase in fat consumption. Recombinant proghrelin is functionally active with effects on food intake and energy metabolism.

A regulatory role of LPCAT1 in the synthesis of inflammatory lipids, PAF and LPC, in the retina of diabetic mice

Cheng, L., Han, X., Shi, Y. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) are potent inflammatory lipids. Elevated levels of PAF and LPC are associated with the onset of diabetic retinopathy and neurodegeneration. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying such defects remain elusive. LPCAT1 is a newly reported lysophospholipid acyltransferase implicated in the anti-inflammatory response by its role in conversion of LPC to PC. Intriguingly, the LPCAT1 enzyme also catalyzes the synthesis of PAF from lyso-PAF with use of acetyl-CoA as a substrate. The present studies investigated regulatory roles of LPCAT1 in the synthesis of inflammatory lipids during the onset of diabetes. Our work shows that LPCAT1 plays an important role in the inactivation of PAF by catalyzing the synthesis of alkyl-PC, an inactivated form of PAF with use of acyl-CoA and lyso-PAF as substrates. In support of a role of LPCAT1 in anti-inflammatory responses in diabetic retinopathy, LPCAT1 is most abundantly expressed in the retina. Moreover, LPCAT1 mRNA levels and acyltransferase activity toward lyso-PAF and LPC were significantly downregulated in retina and brain tissues in response to the onset of diabetes in Ins2^Akita and db/db mice, mouse models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Conversely, treatment of db/db mice with rosiglitazone, an antidiabetes compound, significantly upregulated LPCAT1 mRNA levels concurrently with increased acyltransferase activity in the retina and brain. Collectively, these findings identified a novel regulatory role of LPCAT1 in catalyzing the inactivation of inflammatory lipids in the retina of diabetic mice.

USP19-deubiquitinating enzyme regulates levels of major myofibrillar proteins in L6 muscle cells

Sundaram, P., Pang, Z., Miao, M., Yu, L., Wing, S. S. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:17 PST

The ubiquitin-proteasome system plays an important role in the degradation of myofibrillar proteins that occurs in muscle wasting. Many studies have demonstrated the importance of enzymes mediating conjugation of ubiquitin. However, little is known about the role of deubiquitinating enzymes. We previously showed that the USP19-deubiquitinating enzyme is induced in atrophying skeletal muscle (Combaret L, Adegoke OA, Bedard N, Baracos V, Attaix D, Wing SS. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 288: E693–E700, 2005). To further explore the role of USP19, we used small interfering RNA (siRNA) in L6 muscle cells. Lowering USP19 by 70–90% in myotubes resulted in a 20% decrease in the rate of proteolysis and an 18% decrease in the rate of protein synthesis, with no net change in protein content. Despite the decrease in overall synthesis, there were ~1.5-fold increases in protein levels of myosin heavy chain (MHC), actin, and troponin T and a ~2.5-fold increase in tropomyosin. USP19 depletion also increased MHC and tropomyosin mRNA levels, suggesting that this effect is due to increased transcription. Consistent with this, USP19 depletion increased myogenin protein and mRNA levels approximately twofold. Lowering myogenin using siRNA prevented the increase in MHC and tropomyosin upon USP19 depletion, indicating that myogenin mediated the increase in myofibrillar proteins. Dexamethasone treatment lowered MHC and increased USP19. Depletion of USP19 reversed the dexamethasone suppression of MHC. These studies demonstrate that USP19 modulates transcription of major myofibrillar proteins and indicate that the ubiquitin system not only mediates the increased protein breakdown but is also involved in the decreased protein synthesis in atrophying skeletal muscle.

Different impacts of saturated and unsaturated free fatty acids on COX-2 expression in C2C12 myotubes

Kadotani, A., Tsuchiya, Y., Hatakeyama, H., Katagiri, H., Kanzaki, M. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

In skeletal muscle, saturated free fatty acids (FFAs) act as proinflammatory stimuli, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is a pro/anti-inflammatory enzyme induced at sites of inflammation, which contributes to prostaglandin production. However, little is known about the regulation of COX-2 expression and its responses to FFAs in skeletal muscle. Herein, we examined the effects of saturated and unsaturated FFAs, including a recently identified lipokine (lipid hormone derived from adipocytes), palmitoleate, on COX-2 expression in C₂C₁₂ myotubes as a skeletal muscle model. Exposure of myotubes to saturated FFAs [palmitate (16:0) and stearate (18:0)], but not to unsaturated FFAs [palmitoleate (16:1), oleate (18:1), and linoleate (18:2)], led to a slow-onset induction of COX-2 expression and subsequent prostaglandin E₂ production via mechanisms involving the p38 MAPK and NF-B but not the PKC signaling cascades. Pharmacological modulation of mitochondrial oxidative function failed to interfere with COX-2 expression, suggesting the mitochondrial overload/excessive β-oxidation contribution to this event to be minimal. On the contrary, unsaturated FFAs appeared to effectively antagonize palmitate-induced COX-2 expression with markedly different potencies (linoleate > oleate > palmitoleate), being highly associated with the suppressive profile of each unsaturated FFA toward palmitate-evoked intracellular signals, including p38, JNK, ERK1/2 MAPKs, and PKC, as well as IB degradation. In addition, our data suggest little involvement of PPAR in the protective actions of unsaturated FFAs against palmitate-induced COX-2 expression. No direct contribution of the increased COX-2 activity in generating palmitate-induced insulin resistance was detected, at least in terms of insulin-responsive Akt phosphorylation and GLUT4 translocation. Taken together, our data provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms responsible for the FFA-induced COX-2 expression in skeletal muscle and raise the possibility that, in skeletal myocytes, COX-2 and its product prostaglandins may play an important role in the complex inflammation responses caused by elevated FFAs, for example, in the diabetic state.

Deletion of Fas in the pancreatic {beta}-cells leads to enhanced insulin secretion

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Fas/Fas ligand belongs to the tumor necrosis factor superfamily of receptors/ligands and is best known for its role in apoptosis. However, recent evidence supports its role in other cellular responses, including proliferation and survival. Although Fas has been implicated as an essential mediator of β-cell death in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, the essential role of Fas specifically in pancreatic β-cells has been found to be controversial. Moreover, the role of Fas on β-cell homeostasis and function is not clear. The objective of this study is to determine the role of Fas specifically in β-cells under both physiological and diabetes models. Mice with Fas deletion specifically in the β-cells were generated using the Cre-loxP system. Cre-mediated Fas deletion was under the control of the rat insulin promoter. Absence of Fas in β-cells leads to complete protection against FasL-induced cell death. However, Fas is not essential in determining β-cell mass or susceptibility to streptozotocin- or HFD-induced diabetes. Importantly, Fas deletion in β-cells leads to increased p65 expression, enhanced glucose tolerance, and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, with increased exocytosis as manifested by increased changes in membrane capacitance and increased expression of Syntaxin1A, VAMP2, and munc18a. Together, our study shows that Fas in the β-cells indeed plays an essential role in the canonical death receptor-mediated apoptosis but is not essential in regulating β-cell mass or diabetes development. However, β-cell Fas is critical in the regulation of glucose homeostasis through regulation of the exocytosis machinery.

mTOR, AMPK, and GCN2 coordinate the adaptation of hepatic energy metabolic pathways in response to protein intake in the rat

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Three transduction pathways are involved in amino acid (AA) sensing in liver: mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and general control nondepressible kinase 2 (GCN2). However, no study has investigated the involvement of these signaling pathways in hepatic AA sensing. To address the question of liver AA sensing and signaling in response to a high-protein (HP) dietary supply, we investigated the changes in the phosphorylation state of hepatic mTOR (p-mTOR), AMPK (p-AMPK), and GCN2 (p-GCN2) by Western blotting. In rats fed a HP diet for 14 days, the hepatic p-AMPK and p-GCN2 were lower (P < 0.001), and those of both the p-mTOR and eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein-1 phosphorylation (p-4E-BP1) were higher (P < 0.01) compared with rats receiving a normal protein (NP) diet. In hepatocytes in primary culture, high AA concentration decreased AMPK phosphorylation whether insulin was present or not (P < 0.01). Either AAs or insulin can stimulate p-mTOR, but this is not sufficient for 4E-BP1 phosphorylation that requires both (P < 0.01). As expected, branched-chain AAs (BCAA) or leucine stimulated the phosphorylation of mTOR, but both insulin and BCAA or leucine are required for 4E-BP1 phosphorylation. GCN2 phosphorylation was reduced by both AAs and insulin(P < 0.01), suggesting for the first time that the translation inhibitor GCN2 senses not only the AA deficiency but also the AA increase in the liver. The present findings demonstrate that AAs and insulin exert a coordinated action on translation and involved mTOR, AMPK, and GCN2 transduction pathways.

VLDL-TG kinetics: a dual isotope study for quantifying VLDL-TG pool size, production rates, and fractional oxidation in humans

Sorensen, L. P., Gormsen, L. C., Nielsen, S. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) are large, complex particles containing both surface proteins (e.g., ApoB100) and core lipids, e.g., cholesterol and triglycerides (TG). Whereas ApoB100 kinetics have been thoroughly studied, accurate measurement of VLDL-TG kinetics have proven difficult due to either complex mathematics or laborious procedures. The present study was therefore designed to measure VLDL-TG kinetics by dual isotope ex vivo labeled VLDL-TG tracers and well-established kinetics equations (bolus injection or the primed continuous infusion). Ten healthy Caucasian men [age, 23 ± 3 yr old (mean ± SD); body mass index, 24.7 ± 1.3 kg/m²] were included in the study. VLDL-TG rate of appearance (Ra) was measured using a dual-tracer technique ([9,10-³H]-labeled VLDL-TG and [1-¹⁴C]-labeled VLDL-TG) to allow comparison of various bolus decay curve fits with the Ra obtained by the primed continuous infusion (PCI; considered the gold standard). In addition, VLDL-TG fatty acid oxidation was measured as ¹⁴CO₂ in exhaled breath, using the hyamine trapping technique. Following a bolus injection, tracer decay was better described by a biexponential than a monoexponential fit (r² = 0.99 ± 0.01 vs. 0.97 ± 0.04, respectively, P = 0.01). VLDL-TG Ra calculated using the PCI correlated significantly with the biexponential fit ( = 0.62, P < 0.05), whereas this was not the case for the monoexponential fit ( = –0.18, P = not significant). VLDL-TG Ra using the best fit of the bolus injection method (biexponential) was less than values obtained by the constant infusion technique [biexponential, 34.3 (range, 27.1–69.6) vs. PCI, 44.4 (range, 33.0–72.7), P < 0.05]. Fractional oxidation of VLDL-TG was 37.2 ± 8.8% at 240 min corresponding to 198.8 ± 55.9 kcal/day or 10.6 ± 3.3% of resting energy expenditure (REE). Our data demonstrate that VLDL-TG Ra measured by a biexponential fit to a bolus decay curve correlates well with VLDL-TG Ra measured by a primed continuous infusion, and therefore that a "second" peripheral VLDL-TG compartment with rapid exchange of TG exists. VLDL-TG volume of distribution is therefore greater than previously anticipated. Finally our data supports that VLDL-TG contributes quantitatively to REE.

Quantification of pancreatic islet distribution in situ in mice

Kilimnik, G., Kim, A., Jo, J., Miller, K., Hara, M. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Tracing changes of specific cell populations in health and disease is an important goal of biomedical research. Precisely monitoring pancreatic β-cell proliferation and islet growth is a challenging area of research. We have developed a method to capture the distribution of β-cells in the intact pancreas of transgenic mice with fluorescence-tagged β-cells with a macro written for ImageJ (rsb.info.nih.gov/ij/). Total β-cell area and islet number and size distribution are quantified with reference to specific parameters and location for each islet and for small clusters of β-cells. The entire distribution of islets can now be plotted in three dimensions, and the information from the distribution on the size and shape of each islet allows a quantitative and a qualitative comparison of changes in overall β-cell area at a glance.

Chronically elevated plasma C-type natriuretic peptide level stimulates skeletal growth in transgenic mice

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) plays a critical role in endochondral ossification through guanylyl cyclase-B (GC-B), a natriuretic peptide receptor subtype. Cartilage-specific overexpression of CNP enhances skeletal growth and rescues the dwarfism in a transgenic achondroplasia model with constitutive active mutation of fibroblast growth factor receptor-3. For future clinical application, the efficacy of CNP administration on skeletal growth must be evaluated. Due to the high clearance of CNP, maintaining a high concentration is technically difficult. However, to model high blood CNP concentration, we established a liver-targeted CNP-overexpressing transgenic mouse (SAP-CNP tgm). SAP-CNP tgm exhibited skeletal overgrowth in proportion to the blood CNP concentration and revealed phenotypes of systemic stimulation of cartilage bones, including limbs, paws, costal bones, spine, and skull. Furthermore, in SAP-CNP tgm, the size of the foramen magnum, the insufficient formation of which results in cervico-medullary compression in achondroplasia, also showed significant increase. CNP primarily activates GC-B, but under high concentrations it cross-reacts with guanylyl cyclase-A (GC-A), a natriuretic peptide receptor subtype of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptides (BNP). Although activation of GC-A could alter cardiovascular homeostasis, leading to hypotension and heart weight reduction, the skeletal overgrowth phenotype in the line of SAP-CNP tgm with mild overexpression of CNP did not accompany decrease of systolic blood pressure or heart weight. These results suggest that CNP administration stimulates skeletal growth without adverse cardiovascular effect, and thus CNP could be a promising remedy targeting achondroplasia.

Changed mitochondrial function by pre- and/or postpartum diet alterations in sheep

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

In a sheep model, we investigated diet effects on skeletal muscle mitochondria to look for fetal programming. During pregnancy, ewes were fed normally (N) or were 50% food restricted (L) during the last trimester, and lambs born to these ewes received a normal (N) or a high-fat diet (H) for the first 6 mo of life. We examined mitochondrial function in permeabilized muscle fibers from the lambs at 6 mo of age (adolescence) and after 24 mo of age (adulthood). The postpartum H diet for the lambs induced an ~30% increase (P < 0.05) of mitochondrial Vo_2max and an ~50% increase (P < 0.05) of the respiratory coupling ratio (RCR) combined with lower levels of UCP3 and PGC-1 mRNA levels (P < 0.05). These effects proved to be reversible by a normal diet from 6 to 24 mo of age. However, at 24 mo, a long-term effect of the maternal gestational diet restriction (fetal programming) became evident as a lower Vo_2max (~40%, P < 0.05), a lower state 4 respiration (~40%, P < 0.05), and lower RCR (~15%, P < 0.05). Both PGC-1 and UCP3 mRNA levels were increased (P < 0.05). Two analyzed muscles were affected differently, and muscle rich in type I fibers was more susceptible to fetal programming. We conclude that fetal programming, seen as a reduced Vo_2max in adulthood, results from gestational undernutrition. Postnatal high-fat diet results in a pronounced RCR and Vo_2max increase in adolescence. However, these effects are reversible by diet correction and are not maintained in adulthood.

Activation of sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 ameliorates hyperglycemia by mediating incretin secretion in mice

Moriya, R., Shirakura, T., Ito, J., Mashiko, S., Seo, T. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Glucose ingestion stimulates the secretion of the incretin hormones, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Despite the critical role of incretins in glucose homeostasis, the mechanism of glucose-induced incretin secretion has not been established. We investigated the underlying mechanism of glucose-induced incretin secretion in vivo in mice. Injection of glucose at 1 g/kg in the upper intestine significantly increased plasma GIP and GLP-1 levels, whereas injection of glucose in the colon did not increase GIP or GLP-1 levels. This finding indicates that the glucose sensor for glucose-induced incretin secretion is in the upper intestine. Coadministration of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-1 (SGLT1) inhibitor, phloridzin, with glucose in the upper intestine blocked glucose absorption and glucose-induced incretin secretion. -methyl-d-glucopyranoside (MDG), an SGLT1 substrate that is a nonmetabolizable sugar, significantly increased plasma GIP and GLP-1 levels, whereas phloridzin blocked these increases, indicating that concomitant transport of sodium ions and glucose (substrate) via SGLT1 itself triggers incretin secretion without the need for subsequent glucose metabolism. Interestingly, oral administration of MDG significantly increased plasma GIP, GLP-1, and insulin levels and reduced blood glucose levels during an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. Furthermore, chronic MDG treatment in drinking water (3%) for 13 days reduced blood glucose levels after a 2-h fast and in an oral glucose tolerance test in diabetic db/db mice. Our findings indicate that SGLT1 serves as the intestinal glucose sensor for glucose-induced incretin secretion and that a noncalorigenic SGLT1 substrate ameliorates hyperglycemia by stimulating incretin secretion.

Attenuation of diabetes-induced renal dysfunction by multiple exposures to low-dose radiation is associated with the suppression of systemic and renal inflammation

Zhang, C., Tan, Y., Guo, W., Li, C., Ji, S., Li, X., Cai, L. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Renal protection against diabetes-induced pathogenic injuries by multiple exposures to low-dose radiation (LDR) was investigated to develop a novel approach to the prevention of renal disease for diabetic subjects. C57BL/6J mice were given multiple low-dose streptozotocin (STZ; 60 x 6 mg/kg) to produce a type 1 diabetes. Two weeks after diabetes onset, some of diabetic mice and age-matched nondiabetic mice were exposed whole body to 25 mGy X-rays every other day for 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 wk. Diabetes caused a significant renal dysfunction, shown by time-dependent increase in urinary microalbumin (Malb) and decrease in urinary creatinine (Cre), and pathological changes, shown by significant increases in renal structural changes and PAS-positive staining. However, diabetes-induced renal dysfunction and pathological changes were significantly, albeit partially, attenuated by multiple exposures to LDR. Furthermore, LDR protection against diabetes-induced renal dysfunction and pathological changes was associated with a significant suppression of diabetes-increased systemic and renal inflammation, shown by significant increases in serum and renal TNF, ICAM-1, IL-18, MCP-1, and PAI-1 contents. To further explore the mechanism by which LDR prevents diabetes-induced renal pathological changes, renal oxidative damage was examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining for 3-nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxynonenal. Significant increase in oxidative damage was observed in diabetic mice, but not diabetic mice, with LDR. Renal fibrosis, examined by Western blotting of connective tissue growth factor and Masson's trichrome staining, was also evident in the kidneys of diabetic mice but not diabetic mice with LDR. These results suggest that multiple exposures to LDR significantly suppress diabetes-induced systemic and renal inflammatory response and renal oxidative damage, resulting in a prevention of the renal dysfunction and fibrosis.

Pigment epithelium-derived factor suppresses adipogenesis via inhibition of the MAPK/ERK pathway in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes

Wang, M., Wang, J. J., Li, J., Park, K., Qian, X., Ma, J.-x., Zhang, S. X. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

We previously reported that circulating levels of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a newly identified adipokine, are increased in patients with type 2 diabetes, correlating with body mass index. However, the role of PEDF in adipogenesis remains elusive. In the present study, we have investigated the effects and mechanisms of PEDF on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes was induced in the presence or absence of human recombinant PEDF protein. The effects of PEDF on adipogenic gene expression, mitotic clonal expansion (MCE), and MAPK activation were investigated. Physiological concentrations of human PEDF protein inhibited adipocyte differentiation, evidenced by decreased lipid accumulation, downregulation of adipocyte markers, and inhibition of master adipogenic transcription factors such as C/EBP- and PPAR. The antiadipogenic effects of PEDF were observed only when PEDF was added to the cells on day 0, but not on day 3 during differentiation, suggesting that PEDF targets some early adipogenic events. Similarly, overexpression of PEDF by adenovirus attenuated adipocyte differentiation. Further studies revealed that PEDF, or U-0126, a specific MAPK/ERK inhibitor, sequentially inhibited the early activation of ERK and MCE. Moreover, PEDF attenuated expression and the phosphorylation of C/EBP-β at Thr¹⁸⁸, an essential step for transcriptional activation of C/EBP-β. In addition, PEDF expression was decreased significantly in the first 24 h during adipocyte differentiation, suggesting that downregulation of PEDF may be essential for the initiation of MCE and adipogenesis. We conclude that PEDF inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes partially because of inhibition of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway and MCE.

Role of the AMPK{gamma}3 isoform in hypoxia-stimulated glucose transport in glycolytic skeletal muscle

Deshmukh, A. S., Glund, S., Tom, R. Z., Zierath, J. R. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

Skeletal muscle glucose transport is regulated via the canonical insulin-signaling cascade as well as by energy-sensing signals. 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been implicated in the energy status regulation of glucose transport. We determined the role of the AMPK3 isoform in hypoxia-mediated energy status signaling and glucose transport in fast-twitch glycolytic extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle from AMPK3-knockout (KO) mice and wild-type mice. Although hypoxia increased glucose transport (P < 0.001) in wild-type mice, this effect was attenuated in AMPK3-KO mice (45% reduction, P < 0.01). The role of Ca²⁺-mediated signaling was tested using the Ca²⁺/calmodulin competitive inhibitor KN-93. KN-93 exposure reduced hypoxia-mediated glucose transport in AMPK3-KO and wild-type mice (P < 0.05). To further explore the underlying signaling mechanisms, phosphorylation of CaMKII, AMPK, ACC, and TBC1D1/D4 as well as isoform-specific AMPK activity was determined. Basal and hypoxia-mediated phosphorylation of CaMKII, AMPK, and ACC as well as 1- and 2-associated AMPK activity was comparable between AMPK3-KO and wild-type mice. KN-93 reduced hypoxia-mediated CaMKII phosphorylation in AMPK3-KO and wild-type mice (P < 0.05), whereas phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC as well as 1- and 2-associated AMPK activity was unaltered. Hypoxia increased TBC1D1/D4 phosphorylation in AMPK3-KO and wild-type mice (P < 0.001). KN-93 exposure prevented this effect in AMPK3-KO, but not in wild-type mice. Taken together, we provide direct evidence for a role of the AMPK3 isoform in hypoxia-mediated glucose transport in glycolytic muscle. Moreover, hypoxia-mediated TBC1D1/D4 phosphorylation was uncoupled from glucose transport in AMPK3-KO mice, indicating that TBC1D1/D4-independent mechanisms contribute to glucose transport in skeletal muscle.

Functional analysis of FSP27 protein regions for lipid droplet localization, caspase-dependent apoptosis, and dimerization with CIDEA

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

The adipocyte-specific protein FSP27, also known as CIDEC, is one of three cell death-inducing DFF45-like effector (CIDE) proteins. The first known function for CIDEs was promotion of apoptosis upon ectopic expression in mammalian cells. Recent studies in endogenous settings demonstrated key roles for CIDEs in energy metabolism. FSP27 is a lipid droplet-associated protein whose heterologous expression enhances formation of enlarged lipid droplets and is required for unilocular lipid droplets typical of white adipocytes in vivo. Here, we delineate relationships between apoptotic function and lipid droplet localization of FSP27. We demonstrate that ectopic expression of FSP27 induces enlarged lipid droplets in multiple human cell lines, which is indicative that its mechanism involves ubiquitously present, rather than adipocyte-specific, cellular machinery. Furthermore, promotion of lipid droplet formation in HeLa cells via culture in exogenous oleic acid offsets FSP27-mediated apoptosis. Using transient cotransfections and analysis of lipid droplets in HeLa cells stably expressing FSP27, we show that FSP27 does not protect lipid droplets from action of ATGL lipase. Domain mapping with eGFP-FSP27 deletion constructs indicates that lipid droplet localization of FSP27 requires amino acids 174–192 of its CIDE C domain. The apoptotic mechanism of FSP27, which we show involves caspase-9 and mitochondrial cytochrome c, also requires this 19-amino acid region. Interaction assays determine the FSP27 CIDE C domain complexes with CIDEA, and Western blot reveals that FSP27 protein levels are reduced by coexpression of CIDEA. Overall, our findings demonstrate the function of the FSP27 CIDE C domain and/or regions thereof for apoptosis, lipid droplet localization, and CIDEA interaction.

Lactate distribution in culture medium of human myometrial biopsies incubated under different conditions

Akerud, H., Ronquist, G., Wiberg-Itzel, E. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

It is generally believed that a relationship exists between muscle fatigue and intracellular accumulation of lactate. This reasoning is relevant to obstetrical issues. Myocytes in uterus work together during labor, and the contractions need to be strong and synchronized for a child to be delivered. At labor dystocia, the progress of labor becomes slow or arrested after a normal beginning. It has been described that, during labor dystocia, when the force of the contractions is low, the uterus is under hypoxia, and anaerobic conditions with high levels of lactate in amniotic fluid dominate. The purpose of this study was to examine whether myometrial cells are involved in the production of lactate in amniotic fluid and whether there are differences in production and distribution of lactate in cells incubated under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. We also wanted to elucidate the involvement of specific membrane-bound lactate carriers. Women undergoing elective caesarean section were included. Myometrial biopsies from uteri were collected and subjected to either immunohistochemistry to identify lactate carriers or in vitro experiments to analyze production of lactate. The presence of lactate carriers named monocarboxylate transporters 1 and 4 was verified. Myometrial cells produced lactate extracellularly, and the lactate carriers operated differently under anaerobic and aerobic conditions; while being mainly unidirectional under anaerobic conditions, they became bidirectional under aerobic conditions. Human myometrial cells produced and delivered lactate to the extracellular medium under both anaerobic and aerobic conditions. The delivery was mediated by lactate carriers.

Long-term Fenretinide treatment prevents high-fat diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis

Preitner, F., Mody, N., Graham, T. E., Peroni, O. D., Kahn, B. B. — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:29:18 PST

The synthetic retinoid Fenretinide (FEN) increases insulin sensitivity in obese rodents and is in early clinical trials for treatment of insulin resistance in obese humans with hepatic steatosis (46). We aimed to determine the physiological mechanisms for the insulin-sensitizing effects of FEN. Wild-type mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) with or without FEN from 4–5 wk to 36–37 wk of age (preventive study) or following 22 wk of HF diet-induced obesity (12 wk intervention study). Retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP4) knockout mice were also fed the HFD with or without FEN in a preventive study. FEN had minimal effects on HFD-induced body weight gain but markedly reduced HFD-induced adiposity and hyperleptinemia in both studies. FEN-HFD mice gained epididymal fat but not subcutaneous or visceral fat mass in contrast to HFD mice without FEN. FEN did not have a measurable effect on energy expenditure, food intake, physical activity, or stool lipid content. Glucose infusion rate during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp was reduced 86% in HFD mice compared with controls and was improved 3.6-fold in FEN-HFD compared with HFD mice. FEN improved insulin action on glucose uptake and glycogen levels in muscle, insulin-stimulated suppression of hepatic glucose production, and suppression of serum FFA levels in HFD mice. Remarkably, FEN also reduced hepatic steatosis. In RBP4 knockout mice, FEN reduced the HFD-induced increase in adiposity and hyperleptinemia. In conclusion, long-term therapy with FEN partially prevents or reverses obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis in mice on HFD. The anti-adiposity effects are independent of the RBP4 lowering effect.