bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enteric microflora contribute to constitutive ICAM-1 expression on vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Komatsu Shunichiro , Berg Rodney D. , Russell Janice M. , Nimura Yuji , Granger D. Neil
Published: December 2017

Quantitative estimates of endothelial cell adhesion molecule expression have revealed that some adhesion molecules [e.g., intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1)] are abundantly expressed in different vascular beds under normal conditions. The objective of this study was to determine whether the enteric microflora contribute to the constitutive expression of ICAM-1 and other endothelial cell adhesion molecules in the gastrointestinal tract and other regional vascular beds. The dual radiolabeled monoclonal antibody technique was used to measure endothelial expression of ICAM-1, ICAM-2, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin in conventional, germ-free mice and germ-free mice receiving the cecal contents of conventional mice to reestablish the enteric microflora (total association). Constitutive ICAM-1 expression was significantly lower in the splanchnic organs (pancreas, stomach, small and large intestine, mesentery, and liver), kidneys, skeletal muscle, and skin of germ-free mice compared with their conventional counterparts. These differences were abolished after total association of germ-free mice with the indigenous gastrointestinal flora. The expression of ICAM-2, VCAM-1, and E-selectin in the various tissues studied did not differ between conventional and germ-free mice. These findings indicate that the indigenous gastrointestinal microflora are responsible for a significant proportion of the basal ICAM-1 expression detected in both intestinal and extraintestinal tissues.
Spontaneously developing chronic colitis in IL-10/iNOS double-deficient mice
Authors: McCafferty Donna-Marie , Sihota Elaine , Muscara Marcelo , Wallace John L. , Sharkey Keith A. , Kubes Paul
Published: December 2017

Mice deficient in both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and interleukin (IL)-10 (iNOS−/−/IL-10−/−) were created to examine the role of iNOS in spontaneously developing intestinal inflammation. IL-10−/−/iNOS−/−mice were compared with IL-10−/−(iNOS+/+) littermates over 6 mo. RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry were performed to measure iNOS message and protein levels. Plasma nitrate/nitrite (NOx) levels were assessed by HPLC. Damage scores (macroscopic and microscopic) and granulocyte infiltration were assessed. At 3–4 wk, IL-10−/−and IL-10−/−/iNOS−/−mice had no signs of colonic inflammation or granulocyte infiltration. Plasma NOxlevels were not different from controls. By 3–4 mo, IL-10−/−mice had increased damage scores and granulocyte infiltration concurrent with increased mRNA and protein synthesis (restricted to the epithelium) for iNOS in intestinal tissues but not other tissues. Plasma NOxlevels increased fivefold. Interestingly, in the absence of iNOS induction or increased plasma NOx, iNOS−/−/IL-10−/−mice had damage and granulocyte infiltration equivalent to those observed in IL-10−/−littermates. These data suggest that iNOS does not impact on the development or severity of spontaneous chronic inflammation in IL-10-deficient mice.
Mice lacking the dopamine transporter display altered regulation of distal colonic motility
Authors: Walker Julia K. L. , Gainetdinov Raul R. , Mangel Allen W. , Caron Marc G. , Shetzline Michael A.
Published: December 2017

The mechanisms by which dopamine (DA) influences gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility are incompletely understood and complicated by tissue- and species-specific differences in dopaminergic function. To improve the understanding of DA action on GI motility, we used an organ tissue bath system to characterize motor function of distal colonic smooth muscle segments from wild-type and DA transporter knockout (DAT −/−) mice. In wild-type mice, combined blockade of D1 and D2 receptors resulted in significant increases in tone (62 ± 9%), amplitude of spontaneous phasic contractions (167 ± 24%), and electric field stimulation (EFS)-induced (40 ± 8%) contractions, suggesting that endogenous DA is inhibitory to mouse distal colonic motility. The amplitudes of spontaneous phasic and EFS-induced contractions were lower in DAT −/− mice relative to wild-type mice. These differences were eliminated by combined D1 and D2 receptor blockade, indicating that the inhibitory effects of DA on distal colonic motility are potentiated in DAT −/− mice. Motility index was decreased but spontaneous phasic contraction frequency was enhanced in DAT −/− mice relative to wild-type mice. The fact that spontaneous phasic and EFS-induced contractile activity were altered by the lack of the DA transporter suggests an important role for endogenous DA in modulating motility of mouse distal colon.
Lymphatic absorption of fatty acids and cholesterol in the neonatal rat
Authors: Ee Looi C. , Zheng Shuqin , Yao Lili , Tso Patrick
Published: December 2017

High-fat diets are essential in suckling animals to ensure adequate calories for postnatal growth, but their lymphatic transport of dietary lipids has not been characterized. We established a lymph fistula model in suckling rats to quantify intestinal uptake and lymphatic transport of dietary lipids and analyzed lipoprotein fractions. Suckling 19-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats had their mesenteric lymph ducts cannulated and gastroduodenal tubes inserted. After overnight recovery, [3H]triolein and [14C]cholesterol were infused for 6 h. Of the total dose, only 38% of triolein and 24% of cholesterol were transported in the lymph of suckling rats. Analyses of residual luminal contents and intestinal mucosal homogenate showed neither reduced absorption nor delayed mucosal processing of ingested lipids to be the cause. Thin-layer chromatographic analysis of radioactive mucosal lipids, however, showed a predominance of free fatty acids (60%) and free cholesterol (67%), implying impaired esterification capacity in these animals. We speculate that this reduced esterification allows for portal transport or direct enterocyte metabolism of dietary lipids.
NH4Cl inhibition of acid secretion: possible involvement of an apical K+channel in bullfrog oxyntic cells
Authors: Hagen Susan J. , Wu Hui , Morrison Sarah W.
Published: December 2017

This study was undertaken to determine the mechanism by which ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) inhibits stimulated acid secretion in the bullfrog gastric mucosa. To this end, four possible pathways of inhibition were studied: 1) blockade of basolateral K+channel, 2) blockade of ion transport activity, 3) neutralization of secreted H+in the luminal solution, or 4) ATP depletion. Addition of nutrient 10 mM NH4Cl (calculated NH3concentration = 92.5 μM and NH4+concentration = 9.91 mM) inhibited acid secretion within 30 min. Inhibition of acid secretion did not occur by blockade of basolateral K+channel activity or ion transport activity or by neutralization of the luminal solution. Although ATP depletion occurred in the presence of NH4Cl, the magnitude of ATP depletion in 30 min was not sufficient to inhibit stimulated acid secretion. By comparing the effect of NH4Cl on the resistance of inhibited or stimulated tissues, we demonstrate that NH4Cl acts specifically on stimulated tissues. We propose that NH4Cl blocks activity of an apical K+channel present in stimulated oxyntic cells. Our data suggest that the activity of this channel is important for the regulation of acid secretion in bullfrog oxyntic cells.
Dynamic regulation of mucus gel thickness in rat duodenum
Authors: Akiba Yasutada , Guth Paul H. , Engel Eli , Nastaskin Igor , Kaunitz Jonathan D.
Published: December 2017

We examined the dynamic regulation of mucus gel thickness (MGT) in vivo in rat duodenum in response to luminal acid, cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition, and exogenous PGE2. An in vivo microscopic technique was used to measure MGT with fluorescent microspheres in urethan-anesthetized rats. Duodenal mucosa was topically superfused with pH 7.0 or pH 2.2 solutions with or without PGE2and indomethacin treatments. Glycoprotein concentration of duodenal loop perfusates was measured with periodic acid/Schiff (PAS) or Alcian blue (AB) staining. MGT and perfusate glycoprotein concentration were stable during a 35-min perfusion with pH 7.0 solution. Acid exposure increased MGT and PAS- and AB-positive perfusate glycoprotein concentrations. Indomethacin pretreatment increased both PAS- and AB-positive perfusate glycoprotein at baseline; subsequent acid superfusion decreased perfusate glycoproteins and gel thickness. PGE2(1 mg/kg iv) simultaneously increased MGT and PAS-positive perfusate glycoprotein concentrations followed by a transient increase in AB-positive glycoprotein concentration, suggesting contributions from goblet cells and Brunner's glands. Parallel changes in MGT and perfusate glycoprotein concentration in response to luminal acid and PGE2suggest that rapid MGT variations reflect alterations in the balance between mucus secretion and exudation, which in turn are regulated by a COX-related pathway. Luminal acid and PGE2augment mucus secretion from goblet cells and Brunner's glands.
III. Posttranscriptional regulation of type I collagen
Authors: Lindquist J. N. , Marzluff W. F. , Stefanovic B.
Published: December 2017

There are several independent metabolic steps that determine the level of a protein in eukaryotic cells. The steady-state level of the mRNA encoding the specific protein is determined by rate of transcription, percentage of transcripts that are ultimately processed and transported to the cytoplasm, and half-life of the mRNA in cytoplasm. The amount of protein that accumulates from a particular transcript is influenced not only by the amount of mRNA present in the cytoplasm but also by the rate of translation of the mRNA and stability of the protein product. There is compelling evidence that the steady-state level of many proteins is regulated at multiple steps, and when there is a large change in the amount of either mRNA or protein it is likely that multiple steps in the metabolism of the mRNA and protein have been altered. In the case of type I collagen production in the fibrotic liver, recent work has shown that there is regulation of multiple steps resulting in an ∼70-fold increase in collagen production by the hepatic stellate cells. In addition to the well-documented relatively small effect on transcription, there are effects on processing/transport of the mRNA, translation of the mRNA, and stability of the mRNA. Large changes of protein levels are produced by altering the rates or efficiency of multiple steps. The molecular details of some of these posttranscriptional regulatory events are currently being elucidated. Here we review the various potential steps for regulation in the synthesis of a protein and discuss how the synthesis of type I collagen may be regulated in the fibrotic liver.
Endothelin-1-induced PMN infiltration and mucosal dysfunction in the rat small intestine
Authors: Oktar Berna K. , Coşkun Tamer , Bozkurt Ayhan , Yeǧen Berrak Ç. , Yüksel Meral , Haklar Goncagül , Bilsel Serpil , Aksungar Fehime Benli , Çetinel Şule , Granger D. Neil , Kurtel Hizir
Published: December 2017

The objectives of this study were to characterize the effects of endothelin (ET)-1 on intestinal mucosal parameters and to assess the contribution of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and a platelet-activating factor (PAF) to the mucosal dysfunction induced by ET-1. Different concentrations of ET-1 (100, 200, and 400 pmol/kg) were infused into the superior mesenteric artery for 10 min, and tissue samples were obtained 30 min after terminating the infusion. ET-1 administration significantly elevated tissue myeloperoxidase activity, plasma carbonyl content, and tissue chemiluminescence intensity, indicating that ET-1 produces PMN infiltration and oxidant stress. Blood-to-lumen clearance of51Cr-EDTA significantly increased after ET-1 infusion (400 pmol/kg). Monoclonal antibodies against ICAM-1 (1A29, 2 mg/kg), antineutrophil serum, and PAF antagonist (WEB-2086, 10 mg/kg) attenuated the mucosal barrier dysfunction induced by ET-1. Overall, our data indicate that ET-1 causes PMN accumulation, oxidant stress, and mucosal dysfunction in the rat small intestine and that ET-1-induced mucosal dysfunction involves a mechanism that includes a role for PMNs, ICAM-1, and PAF.
Actions of histamine on muscle and ganglia of the guinea pig gallbladder
Authors: Hemming Jason M. , Guarraci Fay A. , Firth Tracy A. , Jennings Lee J. , Nelson Mark T. , Mawe Gary M.
Published: December 2017

Histamine is an inflammatory mediator present in mast cells, which are abundant in the wall of the gallbladder. We examined the electrical properties of gallbladder smooth muscle and nerve associated with histamine-induced changes in gallbladder tone. Recordings were made from gallbladder smooth muscle and neurons, and responses to histamine and receptor subtype-specific compounds were tested. Histamine application to intact smooth muscle produced a concentration-dependent membrane depolarization and increased excitability. In the presence of the H2 antagonist ranitidine, the response to histamine was potentiated. Activation of H2 receptors caused membrane hyperpolarization and elimination of spontaneous action potentials. The H2response was attenuated by the ATP-sensitive K+(KATP) channel blocker glibenclamide in intact and isolated smooth muscle. Histamine had no effect on the resting membrane potential or excitability of gallbladder neurons. Furthermore, neither histamine nor the H3 agonist R-α-methylhistamine altered the amplitude of the fast excitatory postsynaptic potential in gallbladder ganglia. The mast cell degranulator compound 48/80 caused a smooth muscle depolarization that was inhibited by the H1 antagonist mepyramine, indicating that histamine released from mast cells can activate gallbladder smooth muscle. In conclusion, histamine released from mast cells can act on gallbladder smooth muscle, but not in ganglia. The depolarization and associated contraction of gallbladder smooth muscle represent the net effect of activation of both H1 (excitatory) and H2 (inhibitory) receptors, with the H2receptor-mediated response involving the activation of KATPchannels.
Mechanism(s) of butyrate transport in Caco-2 cells: role of monocarboxylate transporter 1
Authors: Hadjiagapiou Christos , Schmidt Larry , Dudeja Pradeep K. , Layden Thomas J. , Ramaswamy Krishnamurthy
Published: December 2017

The short-chain fatty acid butyrate was readily taken up by Caco-2 cells. Transport exhibited saturation kinetics, was enhanced by low extracellular pH, and was Na+independent. Butyrate uptake was unaffected by DIDS; however, α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate and the butyrate analogs propionate and l-lactate significantly inhibited uptake. These results suggest that butyrate transport by Caco-2 cells is mediated by a transporter belonging to the monocarboxylate transporter family. We identified five isoforms of this transporter, MCT1, MCT3, MCT4, MCT5, and MCT6, in Caco-2 cells by PCR, and MCT1 was found to be the most abundant isoform by RNase protection assay. Transient transfection of MCT1, in the antisense orientation, resulted in significant inhibition of butyrate uptake. The cells fully recovered from this inhibition by 5 days after transfection. In conclusion, our data showed that the MCT1 transporter may play a major role in the transport of butyrate into Caco-2 cells.
Transport of procainamide via H+/tertiary amine antiport system in rabbit intestinal brush-border membrane
Authors: Katsura Toshiya , Mizuuchi Hiroshi , Hashimoto Yukiya , Inui Ken-Ichi
Published: December 2017

Transport characteristics of procainamide in the brush-border membrane isolated from rabbit small intestine were studied by a rapid-filtration technique. Procainamide uptake by brush-border membrane vesicles was stimulated by an outward H+gradient (pHin= 6.0, pHout= 7.5) against a concentration gradient (overshoot phenomenon), and this stimulation was reduced when the H+gradient was subjected to rapid dissipation by the presence of a protonophore, FCCP. An outward H+gradient-dependent procainamide uptake was not caused by H+diffusion potential. The initial uptake of procainamide was inhibited by other tertiary amines with N-dimethyl or N-diethyl moieties in their structures, such as triethylamine, dimethylaminoethyl chloride, and diphenhydramine, but not by tetraethylammonium and thiamine. Furthermore, procainamide uptake was stimulated by preloading the vesicles with these tertiary amines ( trans-stimulation effect), indicating the existence of a specific transport system for tertiary amines. These findings indicate that procainamide transport in the intestinal brush-border membrane is mediated by the H+/tertiary amine antiport system that recognizes N-dimethyl or N-diethyl moieties in the structures of tertiary amines.
Regulation of parietal cell calcium signaling in gastric glands
Authors: Athmann Christoph , Zeng Ningxin , Scott David R. , Sachs George
Published: December 2017

The ligands interacting with enterochromaffin-like (ECL) and parietal cells and the signaling interactions between these cells were investigated in rabbit gastric glands using confocal microscopy. Intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) changes were used to monitor cellular responses. Histamine and carbachol increased [Ca2+]iin parietal cells. Gastrin (1 nM) increased [Ca2+]iin ECL cells and adjacent parietal cells. Only the increase of [Ca2+]iin parietal cells was inhibited by H2receptor antagonists (H2RA). Gastrin (10 nM) evoked an H2RA-insensitive [Ca2+]iincrease in parietal cells. Carbachol produced large H2RA- and somatostatin-insensitive signals in parietal cells. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP, 100 nM) elevated [Ca2+]iin ECL cells and adjacent parietal cells. H2RAs abolished the PACAP-stimulated [Ca2+]iincrease in adjacent parietal cells. Somatostatin did not inhibit the increase of [Ca2+]iin parietal cells stimulated with histamine, high gastrin concentrations, or carbachol but abolished ECL cell calcium responses to gastrin or PACAP. Hence, rabbit parietal cells express histaminergic, muscarinic, and CCK-B receptors coupled to calcium signaling but insensitive to somatostatin, whereas rabbit and rat ECL cells express PACAP and CCK-B calcium coupled receptors sensitive to somatostatin.
Superantigen immune stimulation activates epithelial STAT-1 and PI 3-K: PI 3-K regulation of permeability
Authors: McKay Derek M. , Botelho Fernando , Ceponis Peter J. M. , Richards Carl D.
Published: December 2017

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) are critical intracellular signaling molecules for many cytokines. We compared the ability of T84 epithelial cells to activate STATs in response to cytokines [interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (10 ng/ml)] and conditioned medium from superantigen [ Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB)]-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA). Of the cytokines tested, only IFN-γ caused a STAT-1 response. Exposure to SEB-PBMC-conditioned medium resulted in STAT-1 or STAT-1/3 activation, and inclusion of anti-IFN-γ antibodies in the conditioned medium abolished the STAT-1 signal. Cells treated with transcription factor decoys, DNA oligonucleotides bearing the STAT-1 recognition motif, and then SEB-PBMC-conditioned medium displayed a reduced STAT-1 signal on EMSA, yet this treatment did not prevent the drop in transepithelial resistance (measured in Ussing chambers) caused by SEB-PBMC-conditioned medium. In contrast, the phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase (PI 3-K) inhibitor LY-294002 significantly reduced the drop in transepithelial resistance caused by SEB-PBMC-conditioned medium. Thus data are presented showing STAT-1 (±STAT-3) and PI 3-K activation in epithelial cells in response to immune mediators released by superantigen immune activation. Although the involvement of STAT-1/-3 in the control of barrier function remains a possibility, PI-3K has been identified as a regulator of T84 paracellular permeability.
V. TGF-β signaling pathways
Authors: Wells Rebecca G.
Published: December 2017

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a multifunctional peptide growth factor with a wide range of potential effects on growth, differentiation, extracellular matrix deposition, and the immune response. General TGF-β signaling pathways have been described in detail over the last several years, but factors that determine the nature of the TGF-β response are poorly understood. In particular, signaling pathways that specifically mediate the matrix effects of TGF-β have received little attention, although they will be important therapeutic targets in the treatment of pathological fibrosis. This themes article focuses on TGF-β signaling and highlights potential points for generating matrix-specific responses.
IV. Regulation of tight junctions by extracellular stimuli: nutrients, cytokines, and immune cells
Authors: Nusrat A. , Turner J. R. , Madara J. L.
Published: December 2017

The epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract forms a regulated, selectively permeable barrier between luminal contents and the underlying tissue compartments. Permeability across the epithelium is, in part, determined by the rate-limiting barrier of the paracellular pathway—the most apical intercellular junction referred to as the tight junction (TJ). The TJ is composed of a multiprotein complex that affiliates with the underlying apical actomyosin ring. TJ structure and function, and therefore epithelial permeability, are influenced by diverse physiological and pathological stimuli; here we review examples of such stimuli that are detected at the cell surface. For example, luminal glucose induces an increase in paracellular permeability to small molecules. Similarly, but by other means, cytokines and leukocytes in the vicinity of the epithelium also regulate TJ structure and paracellular permeability by influencing the TJ protein complex and/or its association with the underlying actin cytoskeleton.
Neural pathways regulating Brunner's gland secretion in guinea pig duodenum in vitro
Authors: Moore Beverley A. , Kim David , Vanner Stephen
Published: December 2017

This study examined the neural pathways innervating Brunner's glands using a novel in vitro model of acinar secretion from Brunner's glands in submucosal preparations from the guinea pig duodenum. Neural pathways were activated by focal electrical stimulation and excitatory agonists, and videomicroscopy was used to monitor dilation of acinar lumen. Electrical stimulation of perivascular nerves evoked large dilations that were blocked by TTX (1 μM) or the muscarinic receptor antagonist 4-diphenylacetoxy- N-(2-chloroethyl)-piperidine hydrochloride (1 μM). The nicotinic agonist 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide (100 μM) had no effect, and the nerve-evoked responses were not inhibited by hexamethonium (200 μM). Dilations were abolished in preparations from chronically vagotomized animals. Activation of submucosal ganglia significantly dilated submucosal arterioles but not Brunner's glands. Effects of electrical stimulation of perivascular and submucosal nerves were not altered by guanethidine. Capsaicin and substance P also dilated arterioles but had no effect on Brunner's glands. Cholinergic (choline acetyltransferase-immunoreactive) nerve fibers were found in Brunner's glands. These findings demonstrate that Brunner's glands are innervated by cholinergic vagal fibers but not by capsaicin-sensitive or intrinsic enteric nerves.
Expression of cell volume-regulated kinase h-sgk in pancreatic tissue
Authors: Klingel K. , Wärntges S. , Bock J. , Wagner C. A. , Sauter M. , Waldegger S. , Kandolf R. , Lang F.
Published: December 2017

Transcript levels of the human serine/threonine kinase h-sgk have been found to be highest in pancreas. In the present study, localization and regulation of h-sgk transcription in pancreatic tissue were elucidated. As was apparent from radioactive in situ hybridization, most pancreatic acinar cells expressed high levels of h-sgk mRNA. h-sgk mRNA-positive cells were also found in ductal epithelia but not in pancreatic islets. In biopsy specimens from patients with pancreatitis, h-sgk mRNA levels were decreased in acinar cells but abundant in numerous mononuclear interstitial cells within areas of pancreatic necrosis and fibrosis. As shown by Northern blotting, h-sgk transcription in DAN-G pancreatic tumor cells is upregulated by osmotic cell shrinkage, serum, phorbol esters (phorbol 12,13-didecanoate), and Ca2+ionophore A-23187 and decreased by staurosporine and cAMP. In conclusion, h-sgk transcription is regulated not only by cell volume but also by serum, protein kinase C stimulation, cAMP, and increase of intracellular Ca2+activity. The kinase may participate not only in normal function of exocrine pancreas but also in fibrosing pancreatitis.
Luminal and systemic signals trigger intestinal adaptation in the juvenile python
Authors: Secor Stephen M. , Whang Edward E. , Lane John S. , Ashley Stanley W. , Diamond Jared
Published: December 2017

Juvenile pythons undergo large rapid upregulation of intestinal mass and intestinal transporter activities upon feeding. Because it is also easy to do surgery on pythons and to maintain them in the laboratory, we used a python model to examine signals and agents for intestinal adaptation. We surgically isolated the middle third of the small intestine from enteric continuity, leaving its mesenteric nerve and vascular supply intact. Intestinal continuity was restored by an end-to-end anastomosis between the proximal and distal thirds. Within 24 h of the snake's feeding, the reanastomosed proximal and distal segments (receiving luminal nutrients) had upregulated amino acid and glucose uptakes by up to 15-fold, had doubled intestinal mass, and thereby soon achieved total nutrient uptake capacities equal to those of the normal fed full-length intestine. At this time, however, the isolated middle segment, receiving no luminal nutrients, experienced no changes from the fasted state in either nutrient uptakes or in morphology. By 3 days postfeeding, the isolated middle segment had upregulated nutrient uptakes to the same levels as the reanastomosed proximal and distal segments, but it still lacked any appreciable morphological response. These contrasting results for the reanastomosed intestine and for the isolated middle segment suggest that luminal nutrients and/or pancreatic biliary secretions are the agents triggering rapid upregulation of transporters and of intestinal mass and that systemic nerve or hormonal signals later trigger transporter regulation but no trophic response.
Expression, transport properties, and chromosomal location of organic anion transporter subtype 3
Authors: Walters Holly C. , Craddock Ann L. , Fusegawa Hisae , Willingham Mark C. , Dawson Paul A.
Published: December 2017

The rat and mouse organic anion-transporting polypeptides (oatp) subtype 3 (oatp3) were cloned to further define components of the intestinal bile acid transport system. In transfected COS cells, oatp3 mediated Na+-independent, DIDS-inhibited taurocholate uptake (Michaelis-Menten constant ∼30 μM). The oatp3-mediated uptake rates and affinities were highest for glycine-conjugated dihydroxy bile acids. In stably transfected, polarized Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, oatp3 mediated only apical uptake of taurocholate. RT-PCR analysis revealed that rat oatp3, but not oatp1 or oatp2, was expressed in small intestine. By RNase protection assay, oatp3 mRNA was readily detected down the length of the small intestine as well as in brain, lung, and retina. An antibody directed to the carboxy terminus localized oatp3 to the apical brush-border membrane of rat jejunal enterocytes. The mouse oatp3 gene was localized to a region of mouse chromosome 6. This region is syntenic with human chromosome 12p12, where the human OATP-A gene was mapped, suggesting that rodent oatp3 is orthologous to the human OATP-A. These transport and expression properties suggest that rat oatp3 mediates the anion exchange-driven absorption of bile acids previously described for the proximal small intestine.
GLP-2 stimulates intestinal growth in premature TPN-fed pigs by suppressing proteolysis and apoptosis
Authors: Burrin D. G. , Stoll B. , Jiang R. , Petersen Y. , Elnif J. , Buddington R. K. , Schmidt M. , Holst J. J. , Hartmann B. , Sangild P. T.
Published: December 2017

We wished to determine whether exogenous glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-2 infusion stimulates intestinal growth in parenterally fed immature pigs. Piglets (106–108 days gestation) were given parenteral nutrient infusion (TPN), TPN + human GLP-2 (25 nmol · kg−1 · day−1), or sow's milk enterally (ENT) for 6 days. Intestinal protein synthesis was then measured in vivo after a bolus dose of [1-13C]phenylalanine, and degradation was calculated from the difference between protein accretion and synthesis. Crypt cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured in situ by 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL), respectively. Intestinal protein and DNA accretion rates and villus heights were similar in GLP-2 and ENT pigs, and both were higher ( P < 0.05) than in TPN pigs. GLP-2 decreased fractional protein degradation rate, whereas ENT increased fractional protein synthesis rate compared with TPN pigs. Percentage of TUNEL-positive cells in GLP-2 and ENT groups was 48 and 64% lower, respectively, than in TPN group ( P < 0.05). However, ENT, but not GLP-2, increased percentage of BrdU-positive crypt cells above that in TPN piglets. We conclude that GLP-2 increases intestinal growth in premature, TPN-fed pigs by decreasing proteolysis and apoptosis, whereas enteral nutrition acts via increased protein synthesis and cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis.
Functional properties of transfected human DMT1 iron transporter
Authors: Worthington Mark T. , Browne Lauren , Battle Emily H. , Luo Roger Qi
Published: December 2017

Recently, mutation of the DMT1 gene has been discovered to cause ineffective intestinal iron uptake and abnormal body iron metabolism in the anemic Belgrade rat and mkmouse. DMT1 transports first-series transition metals, but only iron turns on an inward proton current. The process of iron transport was studied by transfection of human DMT1 into the COS-7 cell line. Native and epitope-tagged human DMT1 led to increased iron uptake. The human gene with the Belgrade rat mutation was found to have one-fifth of the activity of the wild-type protein. The pH optimum of human DMT1 iron uptake was 6.75, which is equivalent to the pH of the duodenal brush border. The transporter demonstrates uptake without saturation from 0 to 50 μM iron, recapitulating earlier studies of isolated intestinal enterocytes. Diethylpyrocarbonate inhibition of iron uptake in DMT1-transfected cells suggests a functional role for histidine residues. Finally, a model is presented that incorporates the selectivity of the DMT1 transporter for transition metals and a potential role for the inward proton current.
Gut-derived norepinephrine plays a critical role in producing hepatocellular dysfunction during early sepsis
Authors: Yang Shaolong , Koo Douglas J. , Zhou Mian , Chaudry Irshad H. , Wang Ping
Published: December 2017

Although plasma norepinephrine (NE) increases and hepatocellular function is depressed during early sepsis, it is unknown whether gut is a significant source of NE and, if so, whether gut-derived NE helps produce hepatocellular dysfunction. We subjected rats to sepsis by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and 2 h later (i.e., early sepsis) portal and systemic blood samples were collected and plasma levels of NE were assayed. Other rats were enterectomized before CLP. Hepatocellular function was assessed with an in vivo indocyanine green (ICG) clearance technique, systemic levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 were determined, and the effect of NE on hepatic ICG clearance capacity was assessed in an isolated, perfused liver preparation. Portal levels of NE were significantly higher than systemic levels at 2 h after CLP. Prior enterectomy reduced NE levels in septic animals. Thus gut appears to be the major source of NE release during sepsis. Enterectomy before sepsis also attenuated hepatocellular dysfunction and downregulated TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Perfusion of the isolated livers with 20 nM NE (similar to that observed in sepsis) significantly reduced ICG clearance capacity. These results suggest that gut-derived NE plays a significant role in hepatocellular dysfunction and upregulating inflammatory cytokines. Modulation of NE release and/or hepatic responsiveness to NE should provide a novel approach for maintaining hepatocellular function in sepsis.
Microbes and Microbial Toxins: Paradigms for Microbial- Mucosal Interactions II. The integrated response of the intestine toClostridium difficiletoxins
Authors: Pothoulakis Charalabos , Lamont J. Thomas
Published: December 2017

Clostridium difficile, the major etiologic factor of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis, mediates its effects by releasing two large protein exotoxins, toxins A and B. A major toxin effect is related to the disassembly of actin microfilaments, leading to impairment of tight junctions in human colonocytes. The mechanism of actin disaggregation involves monoglucosylation of the signaling proteins Rho A, Rac, and Cdc 42, which control stress fiber formation directly by toxins A and B. An important aspect of C. difficile infection is the acute necroinflammatory changes seen in patients with pseudomembranous colitis. The early mechanism of toxin-mediated inflammation involves toxin effects on cellular mitochondria, release of reactive oxygen species, and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB. Injection of toxin A into animal intestine triggers secretion of fluid and intestinal inflammation characterized by epithelial cell destruction and neutrophil activation. A critical feature of C. difficile enterotoxicity is communication between enterocytes and lamina propria nerves, macrophages, and mast cells mediated via release of neuropeptides and proinflammatory cytokines.
Involvement of PI 3-kinase in IGF-I stimulation of jejunal Na+-K+-ATPase activity and nutrient absorption
Authors: Alexander Andrew N. , Carey Hannah V.
Published: December 2017

Mechanisms responsible for increased jejunal transport rates observed in tissues treated with orally administered insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) were studied in 5-day-old colostrum-deprived piglets. Human recombinant IGF-I (3.5 mg · kg−1 · day−1) or control vehicle was given orogastrically for 4 days. Disaccharidase activity, fructose uptake, and Na+-glucose cotransporter SGLT-1 protein abundance were similar between groups. Oral IGF-I produced greater rates of enterocyte Na+-K+-ATPase activity with no significant differences in Na+-K+-ATPase abundance. Cellular mechanisms responsible for transport changes were studied in Ussing chambers. In control tissues, the presence of IGF-I in mucosal solutions increased basal short-circuit current ( I sc), potential difference, d-glucose-stimulated I sc, and Na+-K+-ATPase activity; these changes were abolished by preincubation of tissues with wortmannin, a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) inhibitor. The results suggest that the effect of IGF-I on jejunal ion and nutrient transport involves activation of PI 3-kinase and stimulation of Na+-K+-ATPase activity in enterocytes.
Epithelial calcium transporter expression in human duodenum
Authors: Barley Natalie F. , Howard Alison , O'Callaghan David , Legon Stephen , Walters Julian R. F.
Published: December 2017

Calcium absorption in intestine and kidney involves transport through the apical membrane, cytoplasm, and basolateral membrane of the epithelial cells. Apical membrane calcium influx channels have recently been described in rabbit (epithelial calcium channel, ECaC) and rat (calcium transport protein, CaT1). We amplified from human duodenum a 446-base partial cDNA probe (ECAC2) having a predicted amino acid similarity of 97% to rat CaT1. Duodenum, but not ileum, colon, or kidney, expressed a 3-kb transcript. A larger transcript was also found in placenta and pancreas, and a different, faint transcript was found in brain. In duodenal biopsies from 20 normal volunteers, expression varied considerably but was not significantly correlated with vitamin D metabolites. This signal correlated with calbindin-D9k( r = 0.48, P< 0.05) and more strongly with the plasma membrane calcium ATPase PMCA1 ( r = 0.83, P < 0.001). These data show that although individual variations in calcium channel transcripts are not vitamin D dependent, expression of genes governing apical entry and basolateral extrusion are tightly linked. This may account for some of the unexplained variability in calcium absorption.
Initiation of distension-induced descending peristaltic reflex in opossum esophagus: role of muscle contractility
Authors: Muinuddin A. , Paterson W. G.
Published: December 2017

The balloon distension (BD)-induced descending peristaltic reflex in the opossum smooth muscle esophagus is abolished in vitro when a Ca2+-free Krebs solution is placed at the site of distension, suggesting that either synaptic transmission occurs at the origin of the reflex or initiation of the reflex requires the development of muscle tension in response to BD. To test the latter possibility, an 8- to 10-cm length of smooth muscle esophagus was placed in a dual-chamber organ bath, isolating the stimulating (orad) from the recording site (aborad). Nifedipine addition to the orad chamber (i.e., site of distension) inhibited the BD-induced “off” contractions in both chambers in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the aborad response to electrical field stimulation (EFS) was unaffected. Atropine addition to the orad chamber had no effect on BD or EFS responses in either chamber. To examine the effects of these agents on tonic contractility, an isobaric barostat was employed. Pressure-volume curves were not altered by Ca2+-free Krebs solution, nifedipine, or TTX, suggesting that resting esophageal tone is not dependent on neural factors or muscle contractility. However, both Ca2+-free Krebs solution and nifedipine markedly decreased phasic contractions over the top of the distending bag. These observations suggest that local, stretch-induced phasic muscle contraction is required for initiation of the BD-induced descending peristaltic reflex.
The myogenic component in distention-induced peristalsis in the guinea pig small intestine
Authors: Donnelly Graeme , Jackson Timothy D. , Ambrous Krista , Ye Jing , Safdar Adeel , Farraway Laura , Huizinga Jan D.
Published: December 2017

In an in vitro model for distention-induced peristalsis in the guinea pig small intestine, the electrical activity, intraluminal pressure, and outflow of contents were studied simultaneously to search for evidence of myogenic control activity. Intraluminal distention induced periods of nifedipine-sensitive slow wave activity with superimposed action potentials, alternating with periods of quiescence. Slow waves and associated high intraluminal pressure transients propagated aborally, causing outflow of content. In the proximal small intestine, a frequency gradient of distention-induced slow waves was observed, with a frequency of 19 cycles/min in the first 1 cm and 11 cycles/min 10 cm distally. Intracellular recording revealed that the guinea pig small intestinal musculature, in response to carbachol, generated slow waves with superimposed action potentials, both sensitive to nifedipine. These slow waves also exhibited a frequency gradient. In addition, distention and cholinergic stimulation induced high-frequency membrane potential oscillations (∼55 cycles/min) that were not associated with distention-induced peristalsis. Continuous distention produced excitation of the musculature, in part neurally mediated, that resulted in periodic occurrence of bursts of distally propagating nifedipine-sensitive slow waves with superimposed action potentials associated with propagating intraluminal pressure waves that caused pulsatile outflow of content at the slow wave frequency.
Different types of contractions in rat colon and their modulation by oxidative stress
Authors: Gonzalez Asensio , Sarna Sushil K.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the modulation of in vitro rat colonic circular muscle contractions by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced inflammation and in spontaneous inflammation in HLA-B27 rats. We also examined the potential role of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in modulating excitation-contraction coupling. The muscle strips from the middle colon generated spontaneous phasic contractions and giant contractions (GCs), the proximal colon strips generated primarily phasic contractions, and the distal colon strips were mostly quiescent. The spontaneous phasic contractions and GCs were not affected by inflammation, but the response to ACh was suppressed in DSS-treated rats and in HLA-B27 rats. H2O2production was increased in the muscularis of the inflamed colon. Incubation of colonic muscle strips with H2O2suppressed the spontaneous phasic contractions and concentration and time dependently reduced the response to ACh; in the middle colon, it also increased the frequency of GCs. We conclude that H2O2mimics the suppression of the contractile response to ACh in inflammation. H2O2also selectively suppresses phasic contractions and increases the frequency of GCs, as found previously in inflamed dog and human colons.
Expression and immunolocalization of aquaporin water channels in rat exocrine pancreas
Authors: Hurley Patricia T. , Ferguson Carole J. , Kwon Tae-Hwan , Andersen Marie-Louise E. , Norman Alexander G. , Steward Martin C. , Nielsen Søren , Case R. Maynard
Published: December 2017

Both the acinar and ductal cells of the pancreas secrete a near-isotonic fluid and may thus be sites of aquaporin (AQP) water channel expression. Northern blot analysis of mRNA from whole rat pancreas revealed high levels of AQP1 and AQP8 expression, whereas lower levels of AQP4 and AQP5 expression were just detectable by RT-PCR Southern blot analysis. Immunohistochemistry showed that AQP1 is localized in the microvasculature, whereas AQP8 is confined to the apical pole of the acinar cells. No labeling of acinar, ductal, or vascular tissue was detected with antibodies to AQP2–7. With immunoelectron microscopy, AQP8 labeling was observed not only at the apical membrane of the acinar cells but also among small intracellular vesicles in the subapical cytoplasm, suggesting that there may be regulated trafficking of AQP8 to the apical plasma membrane. To evaluate the contribution of AQPs to the membrane water permeability, video microscopy was used to measure the swelling of acinar cells in response to hypotonic stress. Osmotic water permeability was reduced by 90% following exposure to Hg2+. Since AQP8 is confined to the apical membrane, the marked effect of Hg2+ suggests that other water channels may be expressed in the basolateral membrane.
Increased apoptosis in lamina propria B cells during polymicrobial sepsis is FasL but not endotoxin mediated
Authors: Chung Chun-Shiang , Wang Weiyang , Chaudry Irshad H. , Ayala Alfred
Published: December 2017

Recent studies from our laboratory demonstrated that mucosal lymphoid tissue such as Peyer's patch cells and lamina propria (LP) B lymphocytes from mice shows evidence of increased apoptosis after sepsis that is associated with localized inflammation/activation. The mechanism for this is poorly understood. Endotoxin as well as Fas/Fas ligand (FasL) have been shown to augment lymphocyte apoptosis; however, their contribution to the increase of apoptosis in LP B-cells during sepsis is not known. To study this, sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in endotoxin-tolerant C3H/HeJ or FasL-deficient C3H/HeJ- FasLgld(FasL−) mice and LP lymphocytes were isolated 24 h later. Phenotypic, apoptotic, and functional indexes were assessed. The number of LP B cells decreased markedly in C3H/HeJ mice but not in FasL-deficient animals at 24 h after CLP. This was associated with comparable alteration in apoptosis and Fas antigen expression in the B cells of these mice. Septic LP lymphocytes also showed increased IgA production, which was absent in the FasL-deficient CLP mice. Furthermore, Fas ligand deficiency appeared to improve survival of septic challenge. These data suggest that the increase in B cell apoptosis in septic animals is partially due to a Fas/FasL-mediated process but not endotoxin.
HGF regulates tight junctions in new nontumorigenic gastric epithelial cell line
Authors: Hollande Frederic , Blanc Emmanuelle M. , Bali Jean Pierre , Whitehead Robert H. , Pelegrin Andre , Baldwin Graham S. , Choquet Armelle
Published: December 2017

The regulation of intercellular adhesion by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was examined on a novel nontumorigenic gastric epithelial cell line (IMGE-5) derived from H-2Kb-tsA58 transgenic mice. IMGE-5 cells constitutively expressed cytokeratin 18 and HGF receptors. Under permissive conditions (33°C + interferon-γ), IMGE-5 cells proliferated rapidly but did not display membrane expression of adherens and tight junction proteins. Under nonpermissive conditions, their proliferation was decreased and they displayed a strong, localized membrane expression of E-cadherin/β-catenin and occludin/ZO-1. HGF treatment largely prevented the targeting of ZO-1 to the tight junction and induced a significant decrease of the transepithelial resistance measured across a confluent IMGE-5 cell monolayer. HGF rapidly increased the tyrosine phosphorylation of ZO-1 and decreased its association with occludin in a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase)-dependent manner. PI 3-kinase was also involved in HGF-induced migration of IMGE-5 cells. Our results demonstrate that 1) HGF prevents the appearance of ZO-1 in the membrane during epithelial cell differentiation; 2) HGF causes partial relocalization of ZO-1 to the cytoplasm and nucleus and concomitantly stimulates cell dissociation and migration; and 3) IMGE-5 cells offer a useful model for the study of gastric epithelial cell differentiation.
The adherent gastrointestinal mucus gel layer: thickness and physical state in vivo
Authors: Atuma C. , Strugala V. , Allen A. , Holm L.
Published: December 2017

Divergent results from in vitro studies on the thickness and appearance of the gastrointestinal mucus layer have previously been reported. With an in vivo model, we studied mucus gel thickness over time from stomach to colon. The gastrointestinal tissues of Inactin-anesthetized rats were mounted luminal side up for intravital microscopy. Mucus thickness was measured with a micropipette before and after mucus removal by suction. The mucus layer was translucent and continuous; it was thickest in the colon (∼830 μm) and thinnest in the jejunum (∼123 μm). On mucus removal, a continuous, firmly adherent mucus layer remained attached to the epithelial surface in the corpus (∼80 μm), antrum (∼154 μm), and colon (∼116 μm). In the small intestine, this layer was very thin (∼20 μm) or absent. After mucus removal, there was a continuous increase in mucus thickness with the highest rate in the colon and the lowest rate in the stomach. In conclusion, the adherent gastrointestinal mucus gel in vivo is continuous and can be divided into two layers: a loosely adherent layer removable by suction and a layer firmly attached to the mucosa.