Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcel...Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcellu lar distribution of Ca(2+) in living human fibroblasts exposing to calcium-free medium in response to agonists has been investigated. PDGF, which releases Ca(2+) from intracellular stores by inositol(1, 4, 5)-trisphosphate pathway,produced a biphasic transient rise in intracellular calcium.The initial rise was resulted from a direct release of calcium from the Golgi apparatus. Calcium could be also released from and reaccumulated into the Golgi apparatus by the stimulation of thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the Ca(2+) transport ATPase of intracellular calcium store. Permeablizing the plasma membrane by 10 μM digitonin resulted in the calcium release from the Golgi apparatus and depletion of the internal calcium store. These results suggest that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in Ca(2+) regulation in signal transduction.展开更多
Hepatitis B virus X(HBx)protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and is me...Hepatitis B virus X(HBx)protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and is mediated by HBx protein,the mechanism of HBx protein regulating intracellular calcium level remains poorly understood.The present study examined whether HBx protein elevated the intracellular calcium through interacting with storeoperated calcium entry(SOCE)components,Orai1 and stromal interaction molecule 1,and then identified the targets of HBx protein,with an attempt to understand the mechanism of HBx protein upsetting intracellular calcium homeostasis.By employing co-immunoprecipitation and GST-pull-down assay,we found that Orai1 protein interacted with HBx protein,and the C-terminus of Orai1 was implicated in the interaction.Confocal microscopy also revealed that HBx protein could co-localize with full-length Orai1 protein in HEK293 cells.Moreover,live cell calcium imaging exhibited that HBx protein elevated intracellular calcium,possibly by binding to SOCE components.Our results suggest that HBx protein binds to STIM1-Orai1 complexes to positively regulate the activity of plasma membrane store-operated calcium channels.展开更多
It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. ...It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. Following WBI of male Kunming micc With 75 mGy X-rays at a dose rate of 12.5 mGy/min the mobilization of [Ca2+]i with Con A in CD4+ and CD8+ Cells in the thymus and spleen was potentiated and the amplitude of [Ca2+], mobilization in thymocytes in response to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody increased with time from 4 to 24 h following low dose radiation. The PKC activity in the homogenate of spleen was markedly stimulated 12 h after WBl with 75 mGy, reaching its peak value at 24-48 h and coming down to lower than normal on day 7. However, the PKC activity in the separated T lymphocytes reached its peak value at 12 h and that in the B lymphocytes reached its peak value on day 4, both coming down to below control on day 7. The implications of this facilitation of signal transduction in T lymphocytes in the mechanism of immunoenhancement after low dose radiation were discussed展开更多
Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. lntracellula...Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. lntracellular calcium concentrations were measured by confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Fura-3 fluorescence dyeing techniques. Cell growth was measured by MTT assay. Results PDGF-BB increased intracellular calcium concentrations in a dose-dependent manner, and at the same time promote the proliferation of mesangial cells. After preincubation with calcium channel blocker nifedipine or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, both the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations and cell proliferations induced by PDGF-BB were inhibited. Tripteriglum Wilfordii Glycosides (TMG) significantly inhibited the mesangial cell proliferations, but it had no significant effect on intracellular calcium concentrations. Conclusion There was a positive relationship between the elevation of intracellular calcium concentration and cell proliferation in glomerular mesangial cells, but the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations wasn't the only way for proliferation.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenoca...Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells were incubated in vitro and assigned with OA concentrations of 0,10,20 and 40μg/mL. The apoptosis status of A549 cell line was detected with Annexin V-FITC/PI by flow cytometry (FCM); fluorescence intensity (FI) of A549 cells was assessed and the level of intracellular calcium was calculated at 24 hour of OA intervention. The relation between apoptosis and calcium FI was illustrated by curve fitting. Results FCM showed that 10,20 and 40μg/mL of OA could induce A549 cell apoptosis,which followed a concentration-effect pattern; 24-hour intervention with 20μg/mL and 40μg/mL OA showed increased A549 cell apoptosis,and was significantly different from that with 0μg/mL OA (P<0.01). The FI of intracellular calcium concentration in 10,20 and 40μg/mL OA groups was significantly higher than that in 0μg/mL group after 24 hours’ intervention,and the FI showed a trend of increase with increased OA concentration (P<0.01). Curve fitting showed a significant correlation between apoptosis rate and intracellular calcium concentration in A549 cells (r=0.981,P<0.01). Regression equation was Y=0.508X-1.627. Conclusion OA plays a role in inducing apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The OA-induced apoptosis is responsible for intracellular calcium overload of the tumor.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium (...BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium ([Ca^2+]i) in neurons of aged rats, and to compare with young rats. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A randomized control experiment of neurophysiology was performed at the Central Laboratory of School of Pharmaceutical Science, China Medical University from June to August 2004. MATERIALS: Ten male, healthy, Wistar rats, 19 months old, were selected for the aged group. Ten male, 3-month-old, Wistar rats were selected for the young control group. Fura-2/AM was provided by the Institute of Pharmaceutical Research of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and the F-2000 fluorospectrophotometer was a product of Hitachi, Japan. METHODS: Fluorescence Fura-2 spectrophotometer was used to measure [Ca^2+]i in acutely dissociated brain cells of aged and young rats. The concentration of extracellular potassium was controlled by adding different volumes of chloridated potassium solution of high concentration. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats in the presence of I mmol/L extracellular calcium concentration and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium. Absolute increase of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats when extracellular potassium was 5, 10, 20, 40 mmol/L. RESULTS: In the presence of 1 mmol/L extracellular Ca〉 and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium, [Ca^2+]i in the neurons of aged rats was significantly less than that in young rats (P 〈 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in absolute [Ca^2+]i increase induced by different concentrations of KCI between the aged and the young rats (P 〉 0.05). CONCLUSION: The overload of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of aged rats is greater than that of young rats under the same circumstances.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in t...Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in the presence of intracellular Ca^(2+)or endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+)chelators.Virus infectivity was measured by focus-forming assay and quantitative RT-PCR.Intracellular Ca^(2+)was measured using Fluo-4-AM dye.VE-cadherin and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)expressions were investigated by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays,respectively.Results:DENV infection increased intracellular cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels and caused disassembly of the adherens junction protein,VEcadherin as evidenced by decreased VE-cadherin expression at the periphery of DENV-2 infected HUVECs.Depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)stores,particularly those of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+),significantly decreased DENV yield in HUVECs.Decreased virus yield following the depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)was caused by the inhibition of viral entry into HUVECs and not the inhibition of viral binding or attachment.DENV-2 infection also resulted in Ca^(2+)-dependent activation of FAK.Conclusions:Intracellular Ca^(2+)is required for the early phases of DENV infection in endothelial cells.Increased cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels in endothelial cells during DENV infection activated FAK,disrupted adherens junctions and compromised barrier integrity.Thus,Ca^(2+)plays an important role in DENV infection in endothelial cells.展开更多
Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to inve...Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of urocortin (UCN), a 40-amino-acid CRF family peptide, on degranulation and intracellular calcium of rat lung mast cells. The activation and degranulation of mast cells were observed by Toluidine blue staining and transmission electron microscope. The intracellular calcium was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. The results indicated that all the three different concentrations of UCN(0.1, 1 and 10 mu M) significantly induced the activation and degranulation of rat lung mast cells in vitro. This effect was markedly blocked by selective CRF receptor 1(CRF-R1) antagonist antalarmin, but not by specific CRF receptor 2(CRF-R2) antagonist antisauvagine-30(anti-Svg-30). The results also showed that UCN caused a rapid peak increase inCa2+(i) at point of 300s after UCN treatment, followed by a decrease to a sustained plateau phase. The peak increase inCa2+(i) induced by UCN was significantly inhibited by antalarmin, but not by anti-Svg-30. This effect of UCN onCa2+(i) in rat lung mast cells was also found by flow cytometry. Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between mast cells degranulation extent and the maximum value ofCa2+(i)(P < 0.01). Taken together, our present study suggested that UCN induced the increase of Ca2+(i) and degranulation of rat lung mast cells through CRF-R1. These findings may have implications for the pathophysiology of allergic and inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, which is closely associated with mast cell activation and degranulation. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.展开更多
Objective Formaldehyde at high concentrations is a contributor to air pollution. It is also an endogenous metabolic product in cells, and when beyond physiological concentrations, has pathological effects on neurons. ...Objective Formaldehyde at high concentrations is a contributor to air pollution. It is also an endogenous metabolic product in cells, and when beyond physiological concentrations, has pathological effects on neurons. Formaldehyde induces mis-folding and aggregation of neuronal tau protein, hippocampal neuronal apoptosis, cognitive impairment and loss of memory functions, as well as excitation of peripheral nociceptive neurons in cancer pain models. Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) is an important intracellular messenger, and plays a key role in many pathological processes. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of formaldehyde on [Ca2+]i and the possible involvement of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) and T-type Ca2+ channels on the cell membrane. Methods Using primary cultured hippocampal neurons as a model, changes of [Ca2+]i in the presence of formaldehyde at a low concentration were detected by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results Formaldehyde at 1 mmol/L approximately doubled [Ca2+]i. (2R)-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate (AP5, 25 μmol/L, an NMDAR antagonist) and mibefradil (MIB, 1 μmol/L, a T-type Ca2+ channel blocker), given 5 min after formaldehyde perfusion, each partly inhibited the formaldehyde-induced increase of [Ca:+]i, and this inhibitory effect was reinforced by combined application of AP5 and MIB. When applied 3 min before formaldehyde perfusion, AP5 (even at 50μmol/L) did not inhibit the formaldehyde-induced increase of [Ca2+]i, but MIB (1 μmol/L) significantly inhibited this increase by 70%. Conclusion These results suggest that formaldehyde at a low concentration increases [Ca2+]i in cultured hippocampal neurons; NMDARs and T-type Ca2+ channels may be involved in this process.展开更多
Dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is associated with various pathological conditions and arrhythmogenesis of the heart.The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of an acute increase in i...Dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is associated with various pathological conditions and arrhythmogenesis of the heart.The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of an acute increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i) on the electrophysiology of ventricular myocytes by mimicking intracellular Ca 2+ overload.The [Ca2+] i was clamped to either a controlled (65-100 nmol L-1) or increased (1 μmol L-1) level.The transmembrane action potentials and ionic currents were recorded using whole-cell patch clamp techniques.We found that the acute increase in [Ca2+] i shortened the action potential duration,reduced the action potential amplitude,maximum depolarization velocity and resting membrane potential,caused delayed after-depolarizations (DADs),and triggered activity--compared with these parameters in the control.The increased [Ca2+] i augmented late I Na in a time-dependent manner,reduced ICaL and IK1,and increased IKr but not IKs.The results of this study can be used to explain calcium overload-induced ventricular arrhythmias.展开更多
To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spon...To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Metheds: Fluo 3-acetoxymethylester(Fluo-3/AM) was used to observe the effects of TFH (100mg/L) and its essential monomers, namely Que (10^-4mol/L) and Isor (10^-4mol/L) on changes of [Ca^2+]1 in cultured SHR and WKY VSMC (abbr. to Ca-SHR & Ca-WKY) following exposure to high K^+, norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ), and to compare with the effects of verapamil (Ver). Results: (1) TFH, Que and Isor had inhibitory effects on resting Ca-SHR (P〈0.05), but had no significant effects on Ca-WKY (P〉0.05). (2) High K^+ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05); TFH, Que and Isor could inhibit the elevation of [Ca^2+]1 induced by high K^+ -depolarization, with the effects similar to that of Ver, and the effect on Ca-SHR was more significant than that on Ca-WKY (P〈0.05). (3) NE and Ang Ⅱ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05), TFH, Que and Isor had remarkably inhibitory effect on the elevation of Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE or Ang Ⅱ. (4) In the absence of extracellular Ca^2+ , TFH, Que and Isor also had certain inhibitory effect on Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE, and the effect on the former was more significant than that on the latter(P〈0.05). Ceaclusiea: TFH, Que and Isor might decrease the levels of [Ca^2+], in VSMCs by blocking both voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDC) and receptoroperated calcium channels (ROC) in physiological or pathological state, which may be one of the important mechanisms of their hypotensive and protective effects on target organs in patients with hypertension.展开更多
Human β-definsin-2(hBD-2)is mainly induced by bacterial factors and pro-inflammation mediators in epithelial cells.As the major cause of community-acquired pneumonia,whether Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae)stim...Human β-definsin-2(hBD-2)is mainly induced by bacterial factors and pro-inflammation mediators in epithelial cells.As the major cause of community-acquired pneumonia,whether Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae)stimulation induces hBD-2 expression in airway epithelial cells is elusive.In this study,we found that S.pneumoniae stimulation induced hBD-2 expression in a time-and concentration-dependent manner in primary human airway epithelial cells.To further reveal the mechanism of S.pneumoniae inducing hBD-2,we found that S.pneumoniae stimulation activated NF-jB signaling pathway.Specific NF-jB inhibitor,PDTC,could reverse the induction of hBD-2 by S.pneumoniae.We also found that cellular inner Ca2+ signaling is involved in the S.pneumoniae-induced hBD-2.Taken together,our findings indicated that S.pneumoniae can stimulate the expression of hBD-2 in airway epithelial cells and NF-jB and inositol triphosphate-dependent intracellular calcium release is involved in this induction.展开更多
The oligomers of Aβ1-40 peptide in PBS buffer solution were analyzed by SEC and native PAGE, and the trimer of Aβ1-40 was also isolated by SEC. In addition, the effects of the soluble Aβ1-40 trimer on intracellular...The oligomers of Aβ1-40 peptide in PBS buffer solution were analyzed by SEC and native PAGE, and the trimer of Aβ1-40 was also isolated by SEC. In addition, the effects of the soluble Aβ1-40 trimer on intracellular free calcium (Ca2+) balance of hippocampal neurons of postnatal rats were investi- gated by fluorescence microscopy. The experimental results indicated that Aβ1-40 peptide existed in the form of low molecular weight oligomers in 0.231 mmol/L fresh Aβ1-40 solution (20 mmol/L sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.4, 0.02% sodium azide) within 24 h and the soluble trimer was the most abundant species. Both the trimeric and the fibrillar Aβ1-40 were able to increase the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, but the Aβ1-40 trimer caused a gradual rise and the potential was also stronger than that of the fibrils at the same concentration. In addition there were dif- ferent response modes for trimeric and fibrillar Aβ1-40, meaning that there are different mechanisms of in- crease in intracellular Ca2+ caused by Aβ1-40.展开更多
The effects of simulated microgravity on matrix mineralization of chondrocytes were examined using cultured chicken embryonic chondrocytes as the model. In four days, there was a time course decrease in alkaline phosp...The effects of simulated microgravity on matrix mineralization of chondrocytes were examined using cultured chicken embryonic chondrocytes as the model. In four days, there was a time course decrease in alkaline phosphatase activity of chondrocytes, a marker of matrix mineralization.Meanwhile, in two days, there was a significant drop in intracellular calcium concentration in contrast to the control. These results indicate that simulated microgravity can suppress matrix calcification of cultured chondrocytes, and intracellular calcium may be involved in the regulation of matrix calcification as the second messenger.展开更多
By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated ph...By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated photoelectric detecting system. The experiments were designed to three groups (The drug was spit to the cells for 20 s): Group A receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate; Group B receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate and1×10 —5 mol/L Mg 2+ simultaneously; Group C receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate again after [Ca 2+]i in group B back to the baseline. The results showed that in group A, [Ca 2+]i was obviously increased. In group B, the changes in [Ca 2+]i and the peak value were significantly decreased. Moreover, the elevation of Phase 1 was slowed down and Phase 2 was shortened to some extent, and the plateau phase between them was relatively prolonged. In group C, calcium oscillation similar to that in group A occurred, but both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 were shortened and the △[Ca 2+]i was slightly decreased. It was suggested that Mg 2+ could quickly inhibit the rise of [Ca 2+]i induced by glutamate in the cultured hippocampal neurons in rats.展开更多
By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were...By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were studied. Normoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell-conditioned medium (NPAECCM) obviously elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC,whereas the hypoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell conditioned medium (HPAECCM)significantly elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC much more than NPAECCM. Both the effects of NPAECCM and HPAECCM were dependent on the cultured endothelial cell extracellular calcium concentrations, ranged from 1.8 mmol/L to 2. 4 mmol/L.Meanwhile, hypoxia directly increased, which was partially inhibited by verapamil,[Ca2+]i in PASMC through Ca2+ influx pathway.The data suggest that the augmented regulation of endothelial cell on PASMC via Ca2+ second messenger system and the hypoxia-induced Ca2+ influx into PASMC,particularly the former, may be components of mechanisms underlying hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and chronic pulmonary hypertension.展开更多
文摘Using laser scanning confocal microscopy, we have found that the in cells loaded with fluo-3/AM, highest intracellular Ca(2+) in the perinuclear region is associated with the Golgi apparatus. The spatiotemporal subcellu lar distribution of Ca(2+) in living human fibroblasts exposing to calcium-free medium in response to agonists has been investigated. PDGF, which releases Ca(2+) from intracellular stores by inositol(1, 4, 5)-trisphosphate pathway,produced a biphasic transient rise in intracellular calcium.The initial rise was resulted from a direct release of calcium from the Golgi apparatus. Calcium could be also released from and reaccumulated into the Golgi apparatus by the stimulation of thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the Ca(2+) transport ATPase of intracellular calcium store. Permeablizing the plasma membrane by 10 μM digitonin resulted in the calcium release from the Golgi apparatus and depletion of the internal calcium store. These results suggest that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in Ca(2+) regulation in signal transduction.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81001063)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2015QN150)
文摘Hepatitis B virus X(HBx)protein plays a pivotal role in the development of hepatitis B virus(HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma.Although regulation of cytosolic calcium is essential for HBV replication and is mediated by HBx protein,the mechanism of HBx protein regulating intracellular calcium level remains poorly understood.The present study examined whether HBx protein elevated the intracellular calcium through interacting with storeoperated calcium entry(SOCE)components,Orai1 and stromal interaction molecule 1,and then identified the targets of HBx protein,with an attempt to understand the mechanism of HBx protein upsetting intracellular calcium homeostasis.By employing co-immunoprecipitation and GST-pull-down assay,we found that Orai1 protein interacted with HBx protein,and the C-terminus of Orai1 was implicated in the interaction.Confocal microscopy also revealed that HBx protein could co-localize with full-length Orai1 protein in HEK293 cells.Moreover,live cell calcium imaging exhibited that HBx protein elevated intracellular calcium,possibly by binding to SOCE components.Our results suggest that HBx protein binds to STIM1-Orai1 complexes to positively regulate the activity of plasma membrane store-operated calcium channels.
文摘It is first reported in the present paper that whole-body irradiation (WBI) with low dose X-rays could increase intracellular calcium ions ([Ca2+]i) and stimulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity of mouse lymphocytes. Following WBI of male Kunming micc With 75 mGy X-rays at a dose rate of 12.5 mGy/min the mobilization of [Ca2+]i with Con A in CD4+ and CD8+ Cells in the thymus and spleen was potentiated and the amplitude of [Ca2+], mobilization in thymocytes in response to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody increased with time from 4 to 24 h following low dose radiation. The PKC activity in the homogenate of spleen was markedly stimulated 12 h after WBl with 75 mGy, reaching its peak value at 24-48 h and coming down to lower than normal on day 7. However, the PKC activity in the separated T lymphocytes reached its peak value at 12 h and that in the B lymphocytes reached its peak value on day 4, both coming down to below control on day 7. The implications of this facilitation of signal transduction in T lymphocytes in the mechanism of immunoenhancement after low dose radiation were discussed
文摘Objective To investigate the relationship between the alteration of intracellular calcium concentration and proliferation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. Methods Rat mesangial cells were cultured. lntracellular calcium concentrations were measured by confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Fura-3 fluorescence dyeing techniques. Cell growth was measured by MTT assay. Results PDGF-BB increased intracellular calcium concentrations in a dose-dependent manner, and at the same time promote the proliferation of mesangial cells. After preincubation with calcium channel blocker nifedipine or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, both the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations and cell proliferations induced by PDGF-BB were inhibited. Tripteriglum Wilfordii Glycosides (TMG) significantly inhibited the mesangial cell proliferations, but it had no significant effect on intracellular calcium concentrations. Conclusion There was a positive relationship between the elevation of intracellular calcium concentration and cell proliferation in glomerular mesangial cells, but the increase of intracellular calcium concentrations wasn't the only way for proliferation.
文摘Objective To investigate the effect of oleanolic acid (OA) on apoptosis,correlation between apoptosis and intracellular calcium,and its mechanism in human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549. Methods Human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells were incubated in vitro and assigned with OA concentrations of 0,10,20 and 40μg/mL. The apoptosis status of A549 cell line was detected with Annexin V-FITC/PI by flow cytometry (FCM); fluorescence intensity (FI) of A549 cells was assessed and the level of intracellular calcium was calculated at 24 hour of OA intervention. The relation between apoptosis and calcium FI was illustrated by curve fitting. Results FCM showed that 10,20 and 40μg/mL of OA could induce A549 cell apoptosis,which followed a concentration-effect pattern; 24-hour intervention with 20μg/mL and 40μg/mL OA showed increased A549 cell apoptosis,and was significantly different from that with 0μg/mL OA (P<0.01). The FI of intracellular calcium concentration in 10,20 and 40μg/mL OA groups was significantly higher than that in 0μg/mL group after 24 hours’ intervention,and the FI showed a trend of increase with increased OA concentration (P<0.01). Curve fitting showed a significant correlation between apoptosis rate and intracellular calcium concentration in A549 cells (r=0.981,P<0.01). Regression equation was Y=0.508X-1.627. Conclusion OA plays a role in inducing apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The OA-induced apoptosis is responsible for intracellular calcium overload of the tumor.
文摘BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that voltage-dependent calcium influx, and enhancement of certain calcium-dependent processes in neurons, is related to aging. OBJECTIVE: To observe changes in intracellular calcium ([Ca^2+]i) in neurons of aged rats, and to compare with young rats. DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: A randomized control experiment of neurophysiology was performed at the Central Laboratory of School of Pharmaceutical Science, China Medical University from June to August 2004. MATERIALS: Ten male, healthy, Wistar rats, 19 months old, were selected for the aged group. Ten male, 3-month-old, Wistar rats were selected for the young control group. Fura-2/AM was provided by the Institute of Pharmaceutical Research of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and the F-2000 fluorospectrophotometer was a product of Hitachi, Japan. METHODS: Fluorescence Fura-2 spectrophotometer was used to measure [Ca^2+]i in acutely dissociated brain cells of aged and young rats. The concentration of extracellular potassium was controlled by adding different volumes of chloridated potassium solution of high concentration. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats in the presence of I mmol/L extracellular calcium concentration and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium. Absolute increase of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of young and aged rats when extracellular potassium was 5, 10, 20, 40 mmol/L. RESULTS: In the presence of 1 mmol/L extracellular Ca〉 and 0 mmol/L (resting state), 5, 10, 20, and 40 mmol/L extracellular potassium, [Ca^2+]i in the neurons of aged rats was significantly less than that in young rats (P 〈 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in absolute [Ca^2+]i increase induced by different concentrations of KCI between the aged and the young rats (P 〉 0.05). CONCLUSION: The overload of [Ca^2+]i in neurons of aged rats is greater than that of young rats under the same circumstances.
基金funding from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia via the Higher Institution Centre of Excellence(HICo E)program(MO002-2019)Development of Research Institute for Excellent Enterprises(ATC+)Project,Republic of Korea(IF001-2021)
文摘Objective:To investigate the involvement of Ca^(2+)in dengue virus(DENV)-infected human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs)and the disruption of endothelial integrity.Methods:HUVECs were infected with DENV-2 in the presence of intracellular Ca^(2+)or endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+)chelators.Virus infectivity was measured by focus-forming assay and quantitative RT-PCR.Intracellular Ca^(2+)was measured using Fluo-4-AM dye.VE-cadherin and focal adhesion kinase(FAK)expressions were investigated by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting assays,respectively.Results:DENV infection increased intracellular cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels and caused disassembly of the adherens junction protein,VEcadherin as evidenced by decreased VE-cadherin expression at the periphery of DENV-2 infected HUVECs.Depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)stores,particularly those of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca^(2+),significantly decreased DENV yield in HUVECs.Decreased virus yield following the depletion of intracellular Ca^(2+)was caused by the inhibition of viral entry into HUVECs and not the inhibition of viral binding or attachment.DENV-2 infection also resulted in Ca^(2+)-dependent activation of FAK.Conclusions:Intracellular Ca^(2+)is required for the early phases of DENV infection in endothelial cells.Increased cytosolic Ca^(2+)levels in endothelial cells during DENV infection activated FAK,disrupted adherens junctions and compromised barrier integrity.Thus,Ca^(2+)plays an important role in DENV infection in endothelial cells.
文摘Corticotropin-releasing factor(CRF), which activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis under stress, also has proinflammatory peripheral effects possibly through mast cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of urocortin (UCN), a 40-amino-acid CRF family peptide, on degranulation and intracellular calcium of rat lung mast cells. The activation and degranulation of mast cells were observed by Toluidine blue staining and transmission electron microscope. The intracellular calcium was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry. The results indicated that all the three different concentrations of UCN(0.1, 1 and 10 mu M) significantly induced the activation and degranulation of rat lung mast cells in vitro. This effect was markedly blocked by selective CRF receptor 1(CRF-R1) antagonist antalarmin, but not by specific CRF receptor 2(CRF-R2) antagonist antisauvagine-30(anti-Svg-30). The results also showed that UCN caused a rapid peak increase inCa2+(i) at point of 300s after UCN treatment, followed by a decrease to a sustained plateau phase. The peak increase inCa2+(i) induced by UCN was significantly inhibited by antalarmin, but not by anti-Svg-30. This effect of UCN onCa2+(i) in rat lung mast cells was also found by flow cytometry. Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between mast cells degranulation extent and the maximum value ofCa2+(i)(P < 0.01). Taken together, our present study suggested that UCN induced the increase of Ca2+(i) and degranulation of rat lung mast cells through CRF-R1. These findings may have implications for the pathophysiology of allergic and inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, which is closely associated with mast cell activation and degranulation. Copyright (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81171042,81070893 and 81221002)the Beijing Outstanding Ph.D.Program Mentor Grantthe Specialized Research Fund for Doctoral Programs of Higher Education, China(20110001110058)
文摘Objective Formaldehyde at high concentrations is a contributor to air pollution. It is also an endogenous metabolic product in cells, and when beyond physiological concentrations, has pathological effects on neurons. Formaldehyde induces mis-folding and aggregation of neuronal tau protein, hippocampal neuronal apoptosis, cognitive impairment and loss of memory functions, as well as excitation of peripheral nociceptive neurons in cancer pain models. Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) is an important intracellular messenger, and plays a key role in many pathological processes. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of formaldehyde on [Ca2+]i and the possible involvement of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) and T-type Ca2+ channels on the cell membrane. Methods Using primary cultured hippocampal neurons as a model, changes of [Ca2+]i in the presence of formaldehyde at a low concentration were detected by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results Formaldehyde at 1 mmol/L approximately doubled [Ca2+]i. (2R)-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate (AP5, 25 μmol/L, an NMDAR antagonist) and mibefradil (MIB, 1 μmol/L, a T-type Ca2+ channel blocker), given 5 min after formaldehyde perfusion, each partly inhibited the formaldehyde-induced increase of [Ca:+]i, and this inhibitory effect was reinforced by combined application of AP5 and MIB. When applied 3 min before formaldehyde perfusion, AP5 (even at 50μmol/L) did not inhibit the formaldehyde-induced increase of [Ca2+]i, but MIB (1 μmol/L) significantly inhibited this increase by 70%. Conclusion These results suggest that formaldehyde at a low concentration increases [Ca2+]i in cultured hippocampal neurons; NMDARs and T-type Ca2+ channels may be involved in this process.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No. 30870912)Department of Biology,Gilead Sciences,Inc.,USA.
文摘Dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis is associated with various pathological conditions and arrhythmogenesis of the heart.The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of an acute increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i) on the electrophysiology of ventricular myocytes by mimicking intracellular Ca 2+ overload.The [Ca2+] i was clamped to either a controlled (65-100 nmol L-1) or increased (1 μmol L-1) level.The transmembrane action potentials and ionic currents were recorded using whole-cell patch clamp techniques.We found that the acute increase in [Ca2+] i shortened the action potential duration,reduced the action potential amplitude,maximum depolarization velocity and resting membrane potential,caused delayed after-depolarizations (DADs),and triggered activity--compared with these parameters in the control.The increased [Ca2+] i augmented late I Na in a time-dependent manner,reduced ICaL and IK1,and increased IKr but not IKs.The results of this study can be used to explain calcium overload-induced ventricular arrhythmias.
基金Supported by One-hundred-people Plan of Hygiene Systemin Shanghai (No .990122)
文摘To explore the effects of total flavonoids of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (TFH) quercetin (Que) and isorhamnetin (Isor) on the intracellular free calcium ([Ca^2+]) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Metheds: Fluo 3-acetoxymethylester(Fluo-3/AM) was used to observe the effects of TFH (100mg/L) and its essential monomers, namely Que (10^-4mol/L) and Isor (10^-4mol/L) on changes of [Ca^2+]1 in cultured SHR and WKY VSMC (abbr. to Ca-SHR & Ca-WKY) following exposure to high K^+, norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ), and to compare with the effects of verapamil (Ver). Results: (1) TFH, Que and Isor had inhibitory effects on resting Ca-SHR (P〈0.05), but had no significant effects on Ca-WKY (P〉0.05). (2) High K^+ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05); TFH, Que and Isor could inhibit the elevation of [Ca^2+]1 induced by high K^+ -depolarization, with the effects similar to that of Ver, and the effect on Ca-SHR was more significant than that on Ca-WKY (P〈0.05). (3) NE and Ang Ⅱ could increase Ca-SHR more significantly than Ca-WKY (P〈0.05), TFH, Que and Isor had remarkably inhibitory effect on the elevation of Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE or Ang Ⅱ. (4) In the absence of extracellular Ca^2+ , TFH, Que and Isor also had certain inhibitory effect on Ca-SHR and Ca-WKY induced by NE, and the effect on the former was more significant than that on the latter(P〈0.05). Ceaclusiea: TFH, Que and Isor might decrease the levels of [Ca^2+], in VSMCs by blocking both voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDC) and receptoroperated calcium channels (ROC) in physiological or pathological state, which may be one of the important mechanisms of their hypotensive and protective effects on target organs in patients with hypertension.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81170034)
文摘Human β-definsin-2(hBD-2)is mainly induced by bacterial factors and pro-inflammation mediators in epithelial cells.As the major cause of community-acquired pneumonia,whether Streptococcus pneumoniae(S.pneumoniae)stimulation induces hBD-2 expression in airway epithelial cells is elusive.In this study,we found that S.pneumoniae stimulation induced hBD-2 expression in a time-and concentration-dependent manner in primary human airway epithelial cells.To further reveal the mechanism of S.pneumoniae inducing hBD-2,we found that S.pneumoniae stimulation activated NF-jB signaling pathway.Specific NF-jB inhibitor,PDTC,could reverse the induction of hBD-2 by S.pneumoniae.We also found that cellular inner Ca2+ signaling is involved in the S.pneumoniae-induced hBD-2.Taken together,our findings indicated that S.pneumoniae can stimulate the expression of hBD-2 in airway epithelial cells and NF-jB and inositol triphosphate-dependent intracellular calcium release is involved in this induction.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.20273002&20103001).
文摘The oligomers of Aβ1-40 peptide in PBS buffer solution were analyzed by SEC and native PAGE, and the trimer of Aβ1-40 was also isolated by SEC. In addition, the effects of the soluble Aβ1-40 trimer on intracellular free calcium (Ca2+) balance of hippocampal neurons of postnatal rats were investi- gated by fluorescence microscopy. The experimental results indicated that Aβ1-40 peptide existed in the form of low molecular weight oligomers in 0.231 mmol/L fresh Aβ1-40 solution (20 mmol/L sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.4, 0.02% sodium azide) within 24 h and the soluble trimer was the most abundant species. Both the trimeric and the fibrillar Aβ1-40 were able to increase the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, but the Aβ1-40 trimer caused a gradual rise and the potential was also stronger than that of the fibrils at the same concentration. In addition there were dif- ferent response modes for trimeric and fibrillar Aβ1-40, meaning that there are different mechanisms of in- crease in intracellular Ca2+ caused by Aβ1-40.
文摘The effects of simulated microgravity on matrix mineralization of chondrocytes were examined using cultured chicken embryonic chondrocytes as the model. In four days, there was a time course decrease in alkaline phosphatase activity of chondrocytes, a marker of matrix mineralization.Meanwhile, in two days, there was a significant drop in intracellular calcium concentration in contrast to the control. These results indicate that simulated microgravity can suppress matrix calcification of cultured chondrocytes, and intracellular calcium may be involved in the regulation of matrix calcification as the second messenger.
文摘By using Fura-2/AM, the effects of magnesium (Mg 2+) on the glutamate-induced increase of intracellular free calcium ([Ca 2+]i) in the cultured hippocampal neurons and the features were investigated by integrated photoelectric detecting system. The experiments were designed to three groups (The drug was spit to the cells for 20 s): Group A receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate; Group B receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate and1×10 —5 mol/L Mg 2+ simultaneously; Group C receiving 1×10 —5 mol/L glutamate again after [Ca 2+]i in group B back to the baseline. The results showed that in group A, [Ca 2+]i was obviously increased. In group B, the changes in [Ca 2+]i and the peak value were significantly decreased. Moreover, the elevation of Phase 1 was slowed down and Phase 2 was shortened to some extent, and the plateau phase between them was relatively prolonged. In group C, calcium oscillation similar to that in group A occurred, but both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 were shortened and the △[Ca 2+]i was slightly decreased. It was suggested that Mg 2+ could quickly inhibit the rise of [Ca 2+]i induced by glutamate in the cultured hippocampal neurons in rats.
文摘By using Ca2+ -sensitive fluorescent probe, Fura-2 , the effects of endothelial cell-conditioned medium and hypoxia on intracellular free calcium ( [Ca2+]i) in cultured pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were studied. Normoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell-conditioned medium (NPAECCM) obviously elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC,whereas the hypoxic porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cell conditioned medium (HPAECCM)significantly elevated [Ca2+]i in PASMC much more than NPAECCM. Both the effects of NPAECCM and HPAECCM were dependent on the cultured endothelial cell extracellular calcium concentrations, ranged from 1.8 mmol/L to 2. 4 mmol/L.Meanwhile, hypoxia directly increased, which was partially inhibited by verapamil,[Ca2+]i in PASMC through Ca2+ influx pathway.The data suggest that the augmented regulation of endothelial cell on PASMC via Ca2+ second messenger system and the hypoxia-induced Ca2+ influx into PASMC,particularly the former, may be components of mechanisms underlying hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and chronic pulmonary hypertension.