15-deoxy-delta(12-14)-prostaglandin-j2 and ciglitazone

Collagenase-3 (matrix metalloproteinase, MMP-13) plays an important role in the degradation of cartilage in pathologic conditions. MMP-13 is elevated in joint tissues in both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). In addition, inflammation-stimulated synovial fibroblasts are able to release MMP-13 and other cytokines in these diseases. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) ligands are recently considered as new anti-inflammatory compounds and these ligands were reported to ameliorate inflammatory arthritis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the mechanisms how PPARγ ligands inhibit the inflammatory response in synovial fibroblasts. Two PPARγ ligands, cyclopentenone prostaglandin 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14) -prostaglandin-J2 (15d-PGJ2) and synthetic thiazolidinedione compound ciglitazone were examined in this study. Here we found that 15d-PGJ2 and ciglitazone markedly inhibited TNF-α-induced MMP-13 production in human synovial fibroblasts. In addition, activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is strongly associated with MMP-13 induction by TNF-α and the activation of NF-κB was determined by Western blot, reporter assay, and immunofluorescence. It was found that 15d-PGJ2 markedly attenuated the translocation of NF-κB by direct inhibition of the activation of IKK via a PPARγ-independent manner. Ciglitazone also inhibits TNF-α-induced MMP-13 expression by suppressing NF-κB activation mainly via the modulation of p38-MAPK. Collectively, our data demonstrate that 15d-PGJ2 and ciglitazone attenuated TNF-α-induced MMP-13 expression in synovial fibroblasts primarily through the modulation of NF-κB signaling pathways. These compounds may have therapeutic application in inflammatory arthritis.

Topics: Active Transport, Cell Nucleus; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Blotting, Western; Cells, Cultured; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Fibroblasts; Fluorescent Antibody Technique; Genes, Reporter; Humans; I-kappa B Kinase; I-kappa B Proteins; Matrix Metalloproteinase 13; Mutation; NF-kappa B; NF-KappaB Inhibitor alpha; p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Kinase Inhibitors; Signal Transduction; Synovial Membrane; Thiazolidinediones; Transfection; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) has been shown to induce colon cancer cell apoptosis in the presence of interferon-gamma. We hypothesized that co-treatment using TWEAK with other pro-apoptosis agents could sensitize death receptor-resistant colon cancer cells.. The effects of chemopreventive agents and TWEAK on cell death and apoptosis were determined using propidium iodide (PI) exclusion and M30 CytoDEATH.. We found that 15d-PGJ(2) sensitizes colon cancer cells to TWEAK-induced apoptosis. Caspase inhibition reduced 15d-PGJ(2)-, but not 15d-PGJ(2)+TWEAK-induced apoptosis. 15d-PGJ(2) promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and dissipation of mitochondrial potential (DeltaPsi(m)) that were more marked with combined treatment. ROS, DeltaPsi(m) and cell death were partially normalized by the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine. TWEAK induced nuclear factor-kappa B activation, which was attenuated by 15d-PGJ(2). 15d-PGJ(2) reduced the expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins BCL-X(L) and MCL-1, while increasing BAX and translocation of cytochrome c and apoptosis-inducing factor.. 15d-PGJ(2) sensitized cancer cells to TWEAK-induced apoptosis through an ROS-dependent cell death pathway and may have chemotherapeutic utility as an apoptosis-enhancing agent.

Topics: Apoptosis; Butyrates; Caco-2 Cells; Cell Line, Tumor; Colonic Neoplasms; Cytokine TWEAK; Drug Synergism; HT29 Cells; Humans; Interferon-gamma; Leucine; Ligands; Membrane Potential, Mitochondrial; Mitochondria; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Thiazolidinediones; Tumor Necrosis Factors

Activators of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma), originally found to be implicated in lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis, have been shown to modulate inflammatory responses through interference with cytokine and chemokine production. Given the central role of mesangial cell-derived chemokines in glomerular leukocyte recruitment in human and experimental glomerulonephritis, we studied the influence of natural and synthetic PPARgamma activators on INF-gamma-induced expression of the T cell-attracting chemokines IP-10/CXCL10, Mig/CXCL9 and I-TAC/CXCL11 in mouse mesangial cells.. INF-gamma-treated mesangial cells were cultured in the presence or absence of either the naturally occurring PPARgamma ligand 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) or synthetic PPARgamma activators of the glitazone group. Chemokine mRNA and protein expression and activation of the JAK/STAT signalling pathway were analysed.. The 15d-PGJ(2), but not synthetic PPARgamma ligands, dose-dependently inhibited INF-gamma-induced chemokine gene (mRNA and protein) expression. Combined results from EMSA and western blot analysis revealed the inhibitory ability of 15d-PGJ(2), but not of synthetic PPARgamma ligands, on IFN-gamma-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of JAK1, JAK2, STAT1 and nuclear STAT1 translocation and DNA binding.. Our results demonstrate that 15d-PGJ(2) inhibits INF-gamma-induced chemokine expression in mesangial cells by targeting the JAK/STAT signalling pathway. This effect is independent of an interference with PPARgamma.

Topics: Animals; Cells, Cultured; Chemokine CXCL10; Chemokine CXCL11; Chemokine CXCL9; Chromans; Gene Expression; Glomerulonephritis; Interferon-gamma; Janus Kinases; Mesangial Cells; Mice; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Recombinant Proteins; RNA, Messenger; Signal Transduction; STAT1 Transcription Factor; Thiazolidinediones; Troglitazone

To investigate the molecular mechanism of fish adipocyte differentiation, the three subtypes of PPAR genes (alpha, beta and gamma) were characterized in a marine teleost red sea bream (Pagrus major). The primary structures of red sea bream PPARs exhibited high degrees of similarities to their mammalian counterparts, and their gene expression was detected in various tissues including adipose tissue, heart and hepatopancreas. During the differentiation of primary cultured red sea bream adipocytes, three PPARs showed distinct expression patterns: The alpha subtype showed a transient increase and the beta gene expression tended to increase during adipocyte differentiation whereas the gene expression level of PPARgamma did not change. These results suggest that they play distinct roles in adipocyte differentiation in red sea bream. In the differentiating red sea bream adipocytes, mammalian PPAR agonists, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2), ciglitazone and fenofibrate did not show clear effects on the adipogenic gene expression. However, 2-bromopalmitate increased the PPARgamma and related adipogenic gene expression levels, suggesting the gamma subtype plays a central role in red sea bream adipocyte differentiation and in addition, fatty acid metabolites can be used as modulators of adipocyte function. Thus our study highlighted the roles of PPARs in fish adipocyte differentiation and provided information on the molecular mechanisms of fish adipocyte development.

Topics: Adipocytes; Animals; Cell Differentiation; Cells, Cultured; Fenofibrate; Hypoglycemic Agents; Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors; Phylogeny; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Isoforms; Sea Bream; Thiazolidinediones

The role of PPARgamma in ciglitazone and 15-d PGJ(2)-induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of Jurkat (before and after PPARgamma gene silencing), U937 (express high levels of PPARgamma) and HeLa (that express very low levels of PPARgamma) cells was investigated. PPARgamma gene silencing, per se, induced a G2/M cell arrest, loss of membrane integrity and DNA fragmentation of Jurkat cells, indicating that PPARgamma is important for this cell survival and proliferation. Ciglitazone-induced apoptosis was abolished after knockdown of PPARgamma suggesting a PPARgamma-dependent pro-apoptotic effect. However, ciglitazone treatment was toxic for U937 and HeLa cells regardless of the presence of PPARgamma. This treatment did not change the cell cycle distribution corroborating with a PPARgamma-independent mechanism. On the other hand, 15-d PGJ(2) induced apoptosis of the three cancer cell lines regardless of the expression of PPARgamma. These results suggest that PPARgamma plays an important role for death of malignant T lymphocytes (Jurkat cells) and PPARgamma agonists exert their effects through PPARgamma-dependent and -independent mechanisms depending on the drug and the cell type.

Topics: Apoptosis; Cell Cycle; Cell Division; DNA Fragmentation; G2 Phase; Gene Expression Regulation; Gene Silencing; HeLa Cells; Humans; Jurkat Cells; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Thiazolidinediones; U937 Cells

A peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) ligand, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory activity in activated monocytes/macrophages. In this study, we investigated the effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of chemokine mRNAs, especially macrophage inhibitory protein (MIP)-2 (CXCL2), in mouse peritoneal macrophages. The inhibitory actions of the natural PPARgamma ligands, 15d-PGJ(2) and prostaglandin A1 (PGA1), on the expression of RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T expressed and secreted; CCL5), MIP-1beta (CCL4), MIP-1alpha (CCL3), IFN-gamma-inducible protein 10 kilodaltons (IP-10; CXCL10) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1; CCL2) mRNA in LPS-treated cells were stronger than those of the synthetic PPARgamma ligands troglitazone and ciglitazone. However, 15d-PGJ(2) enhanced the expression of LPS-induced MIP-2 (CXCL2) mRNA. A specific PPARgamma antagonist (GW9662) had no effect on the inhibitory action of 15d-PGJ(2) and PGA1 in LPS-induced chemokine mRNA expression and on the synergistic action of 15d-PGJ(2) in LPS-induced MIP-2 (CXCL2) expression. Moreover, LPS itself reduced the expression of PPARgamma. Although the synergistic effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on LPS-induced MIP-2 (CXCL2) mRNA expression was remarkable, the production of MIP-2 (CXCL2) in cells treated with 15d-PGJ(2) and LPS did not increase compared to the production in cells treated with LPS alone. The synergistic action of 15d-PGJ(2) on LPS-induced MIP-2 (CXCL2) mRNA expression was dependent on the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), and 15d-PGJ(2) increased the phosphorylation of p38 and stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) in cells stimulated with LPS. These results suggest that the synergistic effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on LPS-induced MIP-2 (CXCL2) expression is PPARgamma-independent, and is mediated by the p38 and SAPK/JNK pathway in mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, which activates NF-kappaB. Our data may give more insights into the different mechanisms contrary to the anti-inflammatory effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on the expression of chemokine genes.

Topics: Animals; Cells, Cultured; Chemokine CXCL2; Chemokines; Chemokines, CXC; Chromans; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; Lipopolysaccharides; Macrophages, Peritoneal; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins A; RNA, Messenger; Thiazolidinediones; Troglitazone; Up-Regulation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) is a nuclear receptor that regulates diverse biological functions including inflammation. The PPARgamma ligands have been reported to exert cardioprotective effects and attenuate myocardial reperfusion injury. Here, we examined the molecular mechanisms of their anti-inflammatory effects. Male Wistar rats were subjected to myocardial ischemia and reperfusion and were treated with the PPAR-gamma ligands, 15-deoxy-Delta-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) or ciglitazone, or with vehicle only, in the absence or presence of the selective PPAR-gamma antagonist GW-9662. In vehicle-treated rats, myocardial injury was associated with elevated tissue activity of myeloperoxidase, indicating infiltration of neutrophils, and elevated plasma levels of creatine kinase and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. These events were preceded by activation of the nuclear factor-kappaB pathway. The PPAR-gamma DNA binding was also increased in the heart after reperfusion. Treatment with ciglitazone or 15d-PGJ2 reduced myocardial damage and neutrophil infiltration and blunted creatine kinase levels and cytokine production. The beneficial effects of both ligands were associated with enhancement of PPAR-gamma DNA binding and reduction of nuclear factor-kappaB activation. Treatment with 15d-PGJ2, but not ciglitazone, enhanced DNA binding of heat shock factor 1 and upregulated the expression of the cardioprotective heat shock protein 70. Treatment with 15d-PGJ2, but not ciglitazone, also induced a significant increase in nuclear phosphorylation of the prosurvival kinase Akt. The cardioprotection afforded by ciglitazone was attenuated by the PPAR-gamma antagonist GW-9662. In contrast, GW-9662 did not affect the beneficial effects afforded by 15d-PGJ2. Thus, our data suggest that treatment with these chemically unrelated PPAR-gamma ligands results in diverse anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Topics: Anilides; Animals; Creatine Kinase; DNA-Binding Proteins; Heat Shock Transcription Factors; HSP70 Heat-Shock Proteins; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Inflammation; Ligands; Male; Myocardial Reperfusion Injury; Neutrophil Infiltration; NF-kappa B; Peroxidase; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Signal Transduction; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Up-Regulation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) is a ligand-activated nuclear receptor with effects on inflammation, atherosclerosis, and apoptosis. The endogenous PPARgamma ligand, 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2), and the synthetic ligand, ciglitazone, have anti-inflammatory properties in endothelial cells. In addition to PPARgamma-dependent effects on the anti-inflammatory process, it has been proposed that PPARgamma ligands may also inhibit the nuclear transcription factor kappaB (NFkappaB) pathway in a PPARgamma-independent manner. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 15d-PGJ2 and ciglitazone on the cytokine-induced activation of the NFkappaB pathway. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were transiently transfected with NFkappaB-luciferase or PPARgamma elements-luciferase reporter constructs for 48 h. The HUVECs were pretreated with 15d-PGJ2 or ciglitazone (30 microM) for 1 h, followed by a 4-h stimulation with tumor necrosis factor alpha (100 U/mL). Luciferase assay was performed to determine reporter activity. Additionally, HUVECs were transiently transfected with a dominant-negative mutant, which retains ligand and DNA binding but exhibits markedly reduced transactivation. Stimulation of HUVEC with tumor necrosis factor alpha increased NFkappaB activation while decreasing PPARgamma activity. Overexpression of a dominant-negative PPARgamma mutant prevented the inhibitory effect of ciglitazone on cytokine-induced NFkappaB activation in transfected human endothelial cells. Conversely, 15d-PGJ2 inhibited the cytokine-induced NFkappaB activation even in the absence of PPARgamma. Our data suggest that 15d-PGJ2 exerts direct inhibitory effects on the NFkappaB pathway through a PPARgamma-independent mechanism. On the contrary, the inhibitory effect of ciglitazone on the NFkappaB pathway seems to require PPARgamma activation.

Topics: Cells, Cultured; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; E-Selectin; Endothelial Cells; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Humans; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Luciferases; Mutation; NF-kappa B; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Recombinant Fusion Proteins; Signal Transduction; Thiazolidinediones; Transfection; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1

The PPAR-gamma ligands, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) and ciglitazone, and the PPAR-alpha ligand, WY-14643, were examined for their effects on proliferation and apoptosis of A375 melanoma, DU145 and PC3 prostate cancer, and MB-MDA-231 breast cancer. While 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) inhibited proliferation of A375 melanoma, ciglitazone was inactive against this and the other cell lines. Restriction of specific amino acids known to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis sensitized all cell lines to ciglitazone, and the combined effects were greater than the individual effects of either treatment. WY-14643 alone or in combination with amino acid deprivation was inactive. Normal fibroblasts were resistant to the treatments.

Topics: Amino Acids; Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; Breast Neoplasms; Cell Line, Tumor; Cell Proliferation; Cell Survival; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; Male; Melanoma; Methionine; Phenylalanine; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Prostatic Neoplasms; Thiazolidinediones; Tyrosine

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. All three PPAR subtypes, PPAR-alpha, PPAR-beta/delta and PPAR-gamma are expressed in human melanocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of PPAR-gamma activator on melanocyte growth, and apoptosis. The PPAR-gamma activators ciglitazone, troglitazone, and 15-deoxy-prostaglandin J2 inhibited melanocyte growth in a dose-dependent manner. This inhibitory effect of ciglitazone seemed to occur through induction of apoptosis. Apoptosis was increased after ciglitazone treatment, which was observed by the TUNEL method and flow cytometry. We noted a decrease in extracellular signal regulated kinase protein expression under ciglitazone treatment. Western blot analysis revealed an apparent time-dependent reduction in Bcl-2 protein levels in ciglitazone-treated melanocytes. In terms of Bax expression, a difference was not found. The expression of caspase-3 proteins was increased time-dependently with ciglitazone treatment. These results indicate that melanocyte growth and apoptosis may be modulated through PPAR-gamma and that ciglitazone, a PPAR-gamma activator, inhibits growth of human melanocytes by inducing apoptosis.

Topics: Apoptosis; bcl-2-Associated X Protein; Caspase 3; Caspases; Cell Proliferation; Cells, Cultured; Chromans; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Male; Melanocytes; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2; Thiazolidinediones; Troglitazone

Cancer cell invasion and metastasis require the concerted action of several proteases that degrade extracellular matrix proteins and basement membranes. Recent reports suggest the plasminogen activator system plays a critical role in pancreatic cancer biology. In the present study, we determined the contribution of the plasminogen activator system to pancreatic cancer cell invasion in vitro. Moreover, the effect of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma ligands, which are currently in clinical use as antidiabetic drugs and interestingly seem to display antitumor activities, on pancreatic cancer cell invasion and the plasminogen activator system was assessed. Expression of components of the plasminogen activator system [i.e., urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and uPA receptor] was detected in six human pancreatic cancer cell lines. Inhibition of urokinase activity by specific synthetic compounds reduced baseline pancreatic cancer cell invasion. The PPAR-gamma ligands 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 and ciglitazone also attenuated pancreatic cancer cell invasion. This effect was abrogated by dominant-negative PPAR-gamma receptors and pharmacologic PPAR-gamma inhibitors. Moreover, activation of PPAR-gamma by ligands increased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and decreased uPA levels in pancreatic cancer cells, and this was accompanied by a reduction in total urokinase activity. The present study shows that the plasminogen activator system plays an integral role in pancreatic cancer cell invasion in vitro. Activation of the nuclear receptor PPAR-gamma by ligands reduced pancreatic cancer cell invasion, which was largely mediated by modulation of the plasminogen activator system. These findings further underscore the potential role of PPAR-gamma ligands as therapeutic agents in pancreatic cancer.

Topics: Cell Line, Tumor; Down-Regulation; Humans; Ligands; Neoplasm Invasiveness; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Thiazolidinediones; Up-Regulation; Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator

Inflammatory mechanisms may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma), such as rosiglitazone, have been recently demonstrated to regulate inflammation by modulating the production of inflammatory mediators and adhesion molecules. The purpose of this study was to examine the protective effects of rosiglitazone on cisplatin nephrotoxicity and to explore the mechanism of its renoprotection.. Mice were treated with cisplatin with or without pre-treatment with rosiglitazone. Renal functions, histological findings, aquaporin 2 (AQP2) and adhesion molecule expression, macrophage infiltration and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) levels were investigated. The effect of rosiglitazone on nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB activity and on viability was examined using cultured human kidney (HK-2) cells.. Rosiglitazone significantly decreased both the damage to renal function and histological pathology after cisplatin injection. Pre-treatment with rosiglitazone reduced the systemic levels of TNF-alpha and down-regulated adhesion molecule expression in addition to the infiltration of inflammatory cells after cisplatin administration. Rosiglitazone restored the decreased AQP2 expression after cisplatin treatment. Pre-treatment with rosiglitazone blocked the phosphorylation of the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB in cultured HK-2 cells. Rosiglitazone had a protective effect via a PPARgamma-dependent pathway in cisplatin-treated HK-2 cells.. These results showed that pre-treatment with rosiglitazone attenuates cisplatin-induced renal damage through the suppression of TNF-alpha overproduction and NF-kappaB activation.

Topics: Anilides; Animals; Apoptosis; C-Peptide; Cell Line; Chromans; Cisplatin; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Glioma; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Inflammation; Insulin; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Kidney; Kidney Diseases; Kidney Function Tests; Kidney Tubules, Proximal; Macrophages; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Monocytes; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Transport; Rosiglitazone; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factor RelA; Troglitazone; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma is a nuclear receptor transcription factor that regulates cell growth, differentiation and homeostasis. PPARgamma agonists have been used to treat obesity, diabetes, cancer and inflammation and recent studies have shown the protective effects of PPARgamma agonists on experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), a Th1 cell-mediated autoimmune disease model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Our studies have further demonstrated that the PPARgamma agonists, 15d-PGJ2 and Ciglitazone, inhibit EAE through blocking IL-12 signaling leading to Th1 differentiation and the PPARgamma deficient heterozygous mice (PPARgamma+/-) or those treated with PPARgamma antagonists develop an exacerbated EAE in association with an augmented Th1 response. In this study, we show that the PPARgamma antagonists, Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) and 2-chloro-5-nitro-N-(4-pyridyl)benzamide (T0070907), reverse the inhibition of EAE by the PPARgamma agonists, Ciglitazone and 15-Deoxy-Delta(12,14)-Prostaglandin J2, in C57BL/6 wild-type and PPARgamma+/- mice. The reversal of EAE by BADGE and T0070907 was associated with restoration of neural antigen-induced T cell proliferation, IFNgamma production and Th1 differentiation inhibited by Ciglitazone and 15d-PGJ2. These results suggest that Ciglitazone and 15d-PGJ2 ameliorate EAE through PPARgamma-dependent mechanisms and further confirm a physiological role for PPARgamma in the regulation of CNS inflammation and demyelination in EAE.

Topics: Animals; Antigens; Benzamides; Benzhydryl Compounds; Cell Differentiation; Cell Proliferation; Demyelinating Diseases; Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Epoxy Compounds; Female; Immunologic Factors; Inflammation; Interferon-gamma; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Myelin Proteins; Myelin-Associated Glycoprotein; Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Pyridines; Th1 Cells; Thiazolidinediones

Peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs) play an important role in peritoneal inflammatory and immune response. It was reported that the peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) ligand could effectively reduce inflammatory processes. However, the expression and function of PPARgamma in PMCs has not been reported. This study was to investigate the expression of PPARgamma in rat PMCs and the effect of PPARgamma activation on the production of CD40 and ICAM-1 induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).. Rat PMCs (RPMCs) were harvested from the peritoneal cavity of Sprague-Dawley rats and maintained under defined in vitro conditions. The cells were treated separately with LPS, 15d-PGJ(2), and ciglitazone at different time points. The mRNA and protein expression of PPARgamma, CD40 and ICAM-1 were detected by RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. The intracellular distribution of PPARgamma was detected by immunocytochemistry.. RPMCs expressed PPARgamma both at the mRNA and protein level. The specific signals for PPARgamma were mainly localized in the nucleus with weak staining in the cytoplasm. Stimulation of RPMCs with LPS resulted in a time-dependent increase in the expression of PPARgamma with the peak of mRNA at 3 h and protein at 12 h. Thereafter the expression of PPARgamma gradually attenuated. The mRNA expressions for CD40, ICAM-1 and protein expression of ICAM-1 were significantly upregulated following stimulation with LPS. Both 15d-PGJ(2) and ciglitazone decreased the expression of CD40 mRNA and ICAM-1 protein. However, ciglitazone was less effective than 15d-PGJ(2).. There is constitutive expression of PPARgamma in cultured RPMCs and PPARgamma ligands which strongly inhibit LPS-induced CD40 and ICAM-1 production in RPMCs. It suggested that PPARgamma might play a part in the local defense of the peritoneal cavity by downregulating inflammatory mediators, which may play a potential role in preventing peritoneal fibrosis induced by peritonitis. Further in vivo study is needed to demonstrate the long-term effects.

Topics: Animals; CD40 Antigens; Cells, Cultured; Gene Expression; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Lipopolysaccharides; Male; Peritoneum; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Thiazolidinediones

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) plays a critical albeit poorly defined role in the development and progression of several cancer types including those of the breast, colon, and lung. A PPAR response element (PPRE) reporter assay was utilized to evaluate the selective transactivation of PPARgamma in 10 different cell lines including normal mammary epithelial, breast, lung, and colon cancer cells. Cells were treated with one of four compounds including rosglitizone (Ros), ciglitizone (Cig), 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (PGJ2), or GW 9662 (GW). We observed differences in transactivation between cell lines from different tissue origin, across cell lines from a single tissue type, and selective modulation of PPARgamma within a single cell line by different ligands. Interestingly, GW, a PPARgamma antagonist in adipocytes, enhanced PPRE reporter activation in normal mammary epithelial cells while it had virtually no effect in any of the cancer cell lines tested. Within each cancer type, individual cell lines were found to respond differently to distinct PPARgamma ligands. For instance, Ros, Cig, and PGJ2 were all potent agonist of PPARgamma transactivation in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines while these same ligands had no effect in squamous cell or large cell carcinomas of the lung. Message levels of PPARgamma and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRalpha) in the individual cell lines were quantitated by real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The ratio of PPARgamma to RXRalpha was predictive of how cells responded to co-treatment of Ros and 9-cis-retinoic acid, an RXRalpha agonist, in two out of three cell lines tested. These data indicate that PPARgamma can be selectively modulated and suggests that it may be used as a therapeutic target for individual tumors.

Topics: Alitretinoin; Anilides; Breast Neoplasms; Caco-2 Cells; Cell Line, Tumor; Colonic Neoplasms; Female; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Genes, Reporter; HT29 Cells; Humans; Ligands; Lung Neoplasms; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Retinoid X Receptor alpha; RNA, Messenger; Rosiglitazone; Thiazolidinediones; Transfection; Tretinoin

15-Deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) was initially identified as a high affinity natural ligand for the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma. Recent studies have shown that it has a potent anti-inflammatory effect by attenuating the expression of proinflammatory mediators in activated macrophages, mainly through the inhibition of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB-dependent transcription of inflammatory genes. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on the expression of LPS-induced chemokine KC mRNA in mouse peritoneal macrophages. The time course of KC mRNA expression in cells stimulated with 15d-PGJ(2) plus LPS simultaneously (15d-PGJ(2)/LPS) showed similar patterns to the cells treated with LPS alone, and 15d-PGJ(2) had no effect on the stability of LPS-induced KC mRNA expression. Although NF-kappaB activity in cells treated with LPS was augmented by 15d-PGJ(2), pyrrolidone dithiocarbamate (PDTC) did not block the synergistic effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on LPS-induced KC mRNA expression. However, the synergistic effect of 15d-PGJ(2) was markedly inhibited when the macrophages were treated with a inhibitor of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway, 2'-amino-3'-methoxyflavine (PD98059). Therefore, the mechanism of synergistic action of 15d-PGJ(2) on the expression of LPS-induced KC mRNA in mouse peritoneal macrophages is possibly related to the MAPK signalling pathway, not to NF-kappaB activation. These data may contribute to unravelling some of the different mechanisms contrary to the anti-inflammatory effect of 15d-PGJ(2).

Topics: Animals; Blotting, Northern; Chemokine CXCL1; Chemokines, CXC; Cycloheximide; Dactinomycin; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Synergism; Enzyme Inhibitors; Flavonoids; Gene Expression; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; Lipopolysaccharides; Macrophages, Peritoneal; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; NF-kappa B; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Pyrrolidines; RNA Stability; RNA, Messenger; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; Thiazolidinediones; Thiocarbamates; Time Factors; Up-Regulation

15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-PGJ(2)(15d-PGJ(2)) is a natural ligand that activates the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma, a member of nuclear receptor family implicated in regulation of lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. Recent studies have shown that 15d-PGJ(2) is the potent anti-inflammatory agent functioning via PPARgamma-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Most postulated mechanisms for anti-inflammatory action of PPARgamma agonists are involved in inhibiting NF-kappaB signaling pathway. We examined the possibility that IL-6 signaling via the Jak-Stat pathway is modulated by 15d-PGJ(2) in lymphocytes and also examined whether the inhibition of IL-6 signaling is dependent of PPARgamma. 15d-PGJ(2) blocked IL-6 induced Stat1 and Stat3 activation in primary human lymphocytes, Jurkat cells and immortalized rheumatoid arthritis B cells. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling was induced rapidly within 15 min after treatment of 15d-PGJ(2). Other PPARgamma-agonists, such as troglitazone and ciglitazone, did not inhibit IL-6 signaling, indicating that 15d-PGJ(2) affect the IL-6-induced Jak-Stat signaling pathway via PPARgamma-independent mechanism. Although cycloheximide reversed 15d-PGJ(2)-mediated inhibition of Stat3 activation, actinomycin D had no effect on 15d-PGJ(2)-mediated inhibition of IL-6 signaling, indicating that inhibition of IL-6 signaling occur independent of de novo gene expression. These results show that 15d-PGJ(2) specifically inhibit Jak-Stat signaling pathway in lymphocytes, and suggest that 15d-PGJ(2) may regulate inflammatory reactions through the modulation of different signaling pathway other than NF-kappaB in lymphocytes.

Topics: Arthritis, Rheumatoid; Chromans; Cycloheximide; Dactinomycin; DNA-Binding Proteins; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Interleukin-6; Jurkat Cells; Lymphocytes; NF-kappa B; Phosphorylation; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Synthesis Inhibitors; Signal Transduction; STAT1 Transcription Factor; STAT3 Transcription Factor; Thiazolidinediones; Trans-Activators; Troglitazone

Although peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) agonists have been implicated in differentiation and growth inhibition of cancer cells, the potential therapeutic and chemopreventive effects on gastric cancer are poorly defined. We examined the in vitro and in vivo effects of PPARgamma ligands on growth of gastric cancer, and the effect of PPARgamma activation on expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and cancer related genes.. Gastric cell lines (MKN28 and MKN45) were treated with two specific PPARgamma ligands: ciglitazone and 15-deoxy-Delta(12,)(14)-prostaglandin J(2). Cell growth was determined by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assay and apoptosis was measured by DNA fragmentation. Expression of COX-2 was determined by western blot and real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Expression profiles of cancer related genes were screened with cDNA array. In vivo growth of implanted MKN45 cells in nude mice was monitored after oral treatment with rosiglitazone.. PPARgamma ligands suppressed the in vitro growth of MKN45 cells in a dose dependent manner whereas prostacyclin, a PPARdelta agonist, had no growth inhibitory effect. Growth inhibition was more pronounced in MKN45 cells, which was accompanied by DNA fragmentation and downregulation of COX-2. Screening by cDNA microarray showed that PPARgamma ligand treatment was associated with upregulation of bad and p53, and downregulation of bcl-2, bcl-xl, and cyclin E1 in MKN45 cells, which was confirmed by quantitative real time PCR. In contrast, MKN28 cells with lower PPARgamma and COX-2 expression levels had lower growth inhibitory responses to PPARgamma ligands. Microarray experiments only showed induction of the bad gene in MKN28 cells. In vivo growth of MKN45 cells in nude mice was retarded by rosiglitazone. Mean tumour volume in rosiglitazone treated mice was significantly lower than controls at six weeks (p = 0.019) and seven weeks (p = 0.001) after treatment.. PPARgamma ligands suppress both in vitro and in vivo growth of gastric cancer and may play a major role in cancer therapy and prevention.

Topics: Animals; Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; Cell Division; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Humans; Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; Isoenzymes; Ligands; Male; Membrane Proteins; Mice; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Mice, Nude; Neoplasm Proteins; Neoplasm Transplantation; Nuclear Receptor Coactivators; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rosiglitazone; Stomach Neoplasms; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tumor Cells, Cultured

We have previously shown that nuclear factor-kappaB inhibition by adenovirus expressing mutated IkappaB-alpha or by proteasome inhibitor increases human articular chondrocytes sensibility to apoptosis. Moreover, the nuclear factor-kappaB inhibitor BAY11-7085, a potent anti-inflammatory drug in rat adjuvant arthritis, is itself a proapoptotic agent for chondrocytes. In this work, we show that BAY 11-7085 but not the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 induced a rapid and sustained phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) in human articular chondrocytes. The level of ERK1/2 phosphorylation correlated with BAY 11-7085 concentration and chondrocyte apoptosis. 15-Deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and its precursor prostaglandin (PG) D2 but not PGE2 and PGF2alpha rescued chondrocytes from BAY 11-7085-induced apoptosis. 15d-PGJ2 markedly inhibited BAY 11-7085-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2. BAY 11-7085 also induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and apoptosis in human synovial fibroblasts, and these reactions were down-regulated by 15d-PGJ2. Further analysis in synovial fibroblasts showed that only molecules that suppressed BAY 11-7085-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (i.e. 15d-PGJ2, PGD2, and to a lesser extent, MEK1/2 inhibitor UO126, but not prostaglandins E2 and F2alpha or peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma agonist ciglitazone) were able protect cells from apoptosis. These results suggested that the antiapoptotic effect of 15d-PGJ2 on chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts might involve inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation.

Topics: Annexin A5; Anti-Infective Agents; Apoptosis; Blotting, Western; Cartilage; Cartilage, Articular; Cell Survival; Cells, Cultured; Chondrocytes; Coloring Agents; Cysteine Endopeptidases; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Down-Regulation; Fibroblasts; Humans; I-kappa B Proteins; Immunologic Factors; Leupeptins; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Multienzyme Complexes; Mutation; NF-kappa B; NF-KappaB Inhibitor alpha; Nitriles; Phosphorylation; Prostaglandin D2; Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Sulfones; Synovial Membrane; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

15-Deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15dPGJ(2) has been recently proposed as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. However, the mechanisms by which 15dPGJ(2) mediates its therapeutic effects in vivo are unclear. We demonstrate that 15dPGJ(2) at micromolar (2.5-10 microm) concentrations induces the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an anti-inflammatory enzyme, at both mRNA and protein levels in human lymphocytes. In contrast, troglitazone and ciglitazone, two thiazolidinediones that mimic several effects of 15dPGJ(2) through their binding to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma, did not affect HO-1 expression, and the positive effect of 15dPGJ(2) on this process was mimicked instead by other cyclopentenone prostaglandins (PG), such as PGD(2) (the precursor of 15dPGJ(2)) and PGA(1) and PGA(2) which do not interact with PPAR-gamma. Also, 15dPGJ(2) enhanced the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased xanthine oxidase activity in vitro. Inhibition of intracellular ROS production by N-acetylcysteine, TEMPO, Me(2)SO, 1,10-phenanthroline, or allopurinol resulted in a decreased 15dPGJ(2)-dependent HO-1 expression in the cells. Furthermore, buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of reduced glutathione synthesis, or Fe(2+)/Cu(2+) ions enhanced the positive effect of 15dPGJ(2) on HO-1 expression. On the other hand, the inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, or the blockade of transcription factor NF-kappaB activation, hindered 15dPGJ(2)-elicited HO-1 expression. Collectively, the present data suggest that 15dPGJ(2) anti-inflammatory actions at pharmacological concentrations involve the induction of HO-1 gene expression through mechanisms independent of PPAR-gamma activation and dependent on ROS produced via the xanthine/xanthine oxidase system and/or through Fenton reactions. Both phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways also appear implicated in modulation of HO-1 expression by 15dPGJ(2).

Topics: Acetylcysteine; Allopurinol; Blotting, Western; Buthionine Sulfoximine; Cells, Cultured; Chromans; Cyclic N-Oxides; Cyclopentanes; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic; Glutathione; Heme Oxygenase (Decyclizing); Heme Oxygenase-1; Humans; Ions; Lymphocytes; Membrane Proteins; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; NF-kappa B; p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Phenanthrolines; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Prostaglandin D2; Reactive Oxygen Species; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Signal Transduction; Temperature; Thiazolidinediones; Time Factors; Transcription Factors; Troglitazone; Xanthine Oxidase

There is growing evidence to show that hepatic oval cells contribute to liver regeneration, dysplastic nodule formation, and hepato-carcinogenesis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and their ligands play an important role in cell growth, inflammatory responses, and liver pathogenesis including fibrosis and cancer. However, little is known about the role of PPARgamma/its ligands in the growth and differentiation of hepatic oval cells. In this study, we found that OC15-5, a rat hepatic oval cell line, expressed PPARgamma at mRNA and protein levels, and a natural ligand for PPARgamma, 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2), and a synthetic ligand, ciglitazone, inhibited growth of OC15-5 cells by arresting at G1-S in a dose-dependent manner. Apoptosis was also induced in OC15-5 cells by 15d-PGJ2 treatment. In OC15-5 cells treated with 15d-PGJ2, the expression of CDK inhibitor, p27(Kip1), was up-regulated, while that of p21(WAF1/Cip1), p18(INK4C) CDK2, CDK4, and cyclin E was unchanged. In addition, delayed up-regulation of AFP expression was observed in OC15-5 cells after 15d-PGJ2 or ciglitazone treatment. This is the first report to show that the PPARgamma ligand was involved in the growth, cell cycle, and differentiation of hepatic oval cells, raising the possibility that the PPARgamma ligands may regulate liver regeneration and hepato-carcinogenesis.

Topics: Animals; Apoptosis; Cell Cycle; Genes, cdc; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; Liver; Prostaglandin D2; Rats; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Up-Regulation

Multiple myeloma is essentially an incurable malignancy and it is therefore of great interest to develop new therapeutic approaches. We previously reported that human B cell-lymphomas express the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) and are killed by PPARgamma ligands. Herein, we investigate the therapeutic potential of PPARgamma ligands for multiple myeloma. The human multiple myeloma cell lines ANBL6 and 8226 express PPARgamma mRNA and protein. The PPARgamma ligands, 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and ciglitazone, induced multiple myeloma cell apoptosis as determined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and caspase activation. Importantly, the ability of PPARgamma ligands to kill both multiple myeloma cell lines was not abrogated by Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multiple myeloma growth survival factor. Finally, the RXR ligand 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cis RA) in combination with PPARgamma ligands greatly enhanced multiple myeloma cell killing. These new findings support that PPARgamma ligands may represent a novel therapy for multiple myeloma.

Topics: Apoptosis; Blotting, Western; Caspases; Cell Line, Tumor; Enzyme Activation; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Immunologic Factors; In Situ Nick-End Labeling; Interleukin-6; Ligands; Membrane Potentials; Mitochondria; Multiple Myeloma; PPAR gamma; Prostaglandin D2; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Thiazolidinediones; Tretinoin

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to modulate cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression, but the mechanisms involved are controversial and may be cell specific. We show in this study that indomethacin (Indo), flurbiprofen (Flur), and the selective COX-2 inhibitor NS-398 induced COX-2 expression and markedly enhanced IL-1beta-induced COX-2 expression in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells. These effects were not reversed by exogenous PGE(2), suggesting that they are prostanoid-independent. Indeed, PGE(2) also induced and enhanced IL-1beta-induced COX-2 expression. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) alpha and PPARgamma (not PPARbeta) were expressed in HASM cells. PPARgamma activators ciglitizone (Cig) and 15-Deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), but not the PPARalpha activator WY-14643, mimicked the effect of NSAIDs on COX-2 expression. Treatment with Flur, NS-398, Cig, and 15d-PGJ(2) alone, but not Indo and WY-14643, elevated COX activity; however, neither enhanced IL-1beta-induced COX activity. Pretreatment with dexamethasone suppressed COX-2 expression, PGE(2) release, and COX activity induced by NS-398, Cig, IL-1beta, alone or in combination. Unlike IL-1beta, NS-398 and Cig did not cause NF-kappaB (p65) nuclear translocation, nor did they further enhance IL-1beta-induced NF-kappaB translocation, but they stimulated PPARgamma translocation. Indo, NS-398, Flur, and 15d-PGJ(2), but not WY-14643, induced transcriptional activity of a COX-2 reporter construct containing the peroxisome proliferator response element (PPRE) on their own and enhanced the effect of IL-1beta, but had no effect on a COX-2 reporter construct lacking the PPRE. The results suggest that COX-2 expression by NSAIDs is biologically functional, prostanoid-independent, and involves PPARgamma activation, and provide the first direct evidence that the PPRE in the promoter is required for NSAID-induced COX-2 expression.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Cell Line; Cell Survival; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dexamethasone; Dinoprostone; Flurbiprofen; Humans; Indomethacin; Isoenzymes; Lung; Membrane Proteins; Muscle, Smooth; NF-kappa B; Nitrobenzenes; Promoter Regions, Genetic; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Prostaglandins; Protein Transport; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Response Elements; Sulfonamides; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Transcriptional Activation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) ligands reduce lesion formation in animal models of atherosclerosis by mechanisms that have not been defined completely. We hypothesized that PPARgamma ligands stimulate endothelial-derived nitric oxide release (*NO) to protect the vascular wall.. The PPARgamma ligands, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) or ciglitazone, stimulated a PPAR response element-luciferase reporter construct in transfected porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs), demonstrating that PPARgamma was transcriptionally functional. Treatment with 15d-PGJ2 or ciglitazone significantly increased release of *NO from PAECs or human aortic endothelial cells and augmented calcium ionophore-induced *NO release from human umbilical vein endothelial cells measured by chemiluminescence analysis of culture media. Increases in *NO release caused by treatment with 15d-PGJ2 occurred at 24 hours, but not after 1 to 16 hours, and were abrogated by treatment with the transcriptional inhibitor alpha-amanitin. Overexpression of PPARgamma or treatment with 9-cis retinoic acid also enhanced PAEC *NO release. Neither 15d-PGJ2 nor ciglitazone altered eNOS mRNA, whereas 15d-PGJ2, but not ciglitazone, decreased eNOS protein.. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that PPARgamma ligands stimulate *NO release from endothelial cells derived from multiple vascular sites, through a transcriptional mechanism unrelated to eNOS expression.

Topics: Animals; Aorta; Cells, Cultured; Endothelium, Vascular; Enzyme Induction; Humans; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; Nitric Oxide; Nitric Oxide Synthase; Prostaglandin D2; Pulmonary Artery; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Swine; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Umbilical Veins

Airway smooth muscle is actively involved in the inflammatory process in diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma by 1) contributing to airway narrowing through hyperplasia and hypertrophy and 2) the release of GM-CSF and G-CSF, which promotes the survival and activation of infiltrating leukocytes. Thus, the identification of novel anti-inflammatory pathways in airway smooth muscle will have important implications for the treatment of inflammatory airway disease. This study identifies such a pathway in the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). PPAR ligands are known therapeutic agents in the treatment of diabetes; however, their role in human airway disease is unknown. We demonstrate, for the first time, that human airway smooth muscle cells express PPAR alpha and -gamma subtypes. Activation of PPAR gamma by natural and synthetic ligands inhibits serum-induced cell growth more effectively than does the steroid dexamethasone, and induces apoptosis. Moreover, PPAR gamma activation, like dexamethasone, inhibits the release of GM-CSF. However, PPAR gamma ligands, but not dexamethasone, similarly inhibits G-CSF release. These results reveal a novel anti-inflammatory pathway in human airway smooth muscle, where PPAR gamma activation has additional anti-inflammatory effects to those of steroids. Hence, PPAR ligands might act as potential treatments in human respiratory diseases.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Apoptosis; Blotting, Western; Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Dexamethasone; DNA Fragmentation; Female; Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor; Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor; Growth Inhibitors; Humans; Interleukin-1; Ligands; Male; Middle Aged; Muscle, Smooth; Peroxisomes; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Isoforms; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Pyrimidines; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Trachea; Transcription Factors

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) has been implicated in inhibition of the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and inducible enzymes such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Using real-time RT-PCR the present study investigates the impact of two PPAR-gamma agonists, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) and ciglitazone, on the expression of several proinflammatory genes in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated human blood monocytes. Stimulation of cells with LPS resulted in a profound induction of the expression of COX-2, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Treatment of cells with 15d-PGJ(2) (10 microM) was associated with a nearly complete inhibition of the expression of all genes that remained unaltered in the presence of the PPAR-gamma antagonist bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE; 100 microM). By contrast, treatment of cells with another potent PPAR-gamma agonist, ciglitazone (50 microM), and the PPAR-alpha agonist WY-14,643 (100 microM) did not suppress LPS-induced expression of the investigated genes. Stimulation of monocytes with LPS resulted in an 88% inhibition of PPAR-gamma mRNA expression that was fully restored by 15d-PGJ(2) but only to a partial extent by ciglitazone and WY-14,643. Again, BADGE did not alter the effect of 15d-PGJ(2). Collectively, our results show that alterations of gene expression by 15d-PGJ(2) in LPS-stimulated human blood monocytes are mediated by PPAR-gamma-independent mechanisms. Moreover, it is concluded that both inhibition of proinflammatory gene expression and restoration of LPS-induced decrease of PPAR-gamma expression may contribute to the biological action of 15d-PGJ(2).

Topics: Cyclooxygenase 2; Gene Expression; Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor; Humans; Immunologic Factors; In Vitro Techniques; Inflammation; Interleukin-1; Interleukin-6; Isoenzymes; Lipopolysaccharides; Membrane Proteins; Monocytes; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

To determine whether peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma ligands can affect the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cytokines related to the pathogenesis of endometriosis.. In vitro study to determine whether PPARs are expressed in human endometrial cells and determine the effects of various PPAR-gamma ligands on IL-6 and other cytokine expression in these cells.. Academic medical center.. Women presenting for infertility workup.. Endometrial cell cultures were treated with PPAR-gamma ligands.. Interleukin-6, IL-8, colony stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) and macrophage chemotactic factor (MCP-1) protein secretion, messenger RNA expression of IL-6, PPAR-alpha, -beta, and -gamma.. Using a human endometrial cell line (EM42), as well as primary stromal and epithelial endometrial cells, we show the presence of PPAR-alpha, -beta, and -gamma by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in these cells. PPAR-gamma ligands stimulated IL-6 secretion and induced enhancement of IL-6 mRNA levels. These ligands also stimulated the secretion of IL-8 and CSF-1.. PPAR-gamma may play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis related to the production of IL-6 and some other cytokines.

Topics: Benzophenones; Colony-Stimulating Factors; Cytokines; Endometrium; Epithelial Cells; Female; Humans; Interleukin-6; Ligands; Phenylacetates; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Array Analysis; Protein Isoforms; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tyrosine

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma is an important signaling molecule in cells of mesenchymal origin, inducing differentiation and regulating cell proliferation in several cell types such as vascular smooth muscle cells. Leiomyomas arise from smooth muscle cells of the uterine myometrium with an incidence rate as high as 70% in women of reproductive age. PPAR signaling has not been characterized in these tumors, although prostaglandins, natural PPAR ligands, are known effectors of key biological functions in the normal myometrium. Leiomyomas and tumor-derived cells isolated from a rat model for this disease were characterized by Western analysis and found to express all three PPAR isoforms, suggesting that signaling pathways mediated by these receptors were intact in this tumor type. In vitro experiments with a leiomyoma-derived cell line demonstrated that the pan-PPAR ligand cis-4,7,10,13,16,19-docosahexaenoic acid and PPARgamma-specific ligands 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2), troglitazone, and ciglitazone inhibited 17beta-estradiol-stimulated cell proliferation. This inhibitory effect was not observed with PPARalpha- or PPARbeta-specific ligands. Although both PPAR and estrogen receptor (ER) signaling pathways were intact in leiomyoma cells, in addition to growth inhibition, stimulation of PPARgamma signaling also inhibited ER-mediated gene expression. Human leiomyomas were also found to express all three PPAR isoforms, and primary cultures of these cells were sensitive to the inhibitory effects of PPARgamma ligands. These results suggest that in uterine leiomyomas PPARgamma activation is growth inhibitory and that this inhibition is mediated at least in part by negative cross-talk between ER and PPAR signaling pathways.

Topics: Animals; Cell Division; Chromans; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Estradiol; Female; Humans; Leiomyoma; Ligands; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Isoforms; Rats; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Receptors, Estrogen; Signal Transduction; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Troglitazone; Tumor Cells, Cultured; Uterine Neoplasms

Phytohemagglutinin (PHA) elicited expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) in primary human T cells via the PPARgamma3 promoter, as shown by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay demonstrated no correlation between PPARgamma expression and its activation. However, addition of specific PPARgamma agonists such as ciglitazone or 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) for 1 h following PHA pretreatment provoked PPARgamma activation verified by supershift analysis. Taking the proapoptotic properties of PPARgamma into consideration, we analyzed induction of apoptosis in activated T cells in response to PPARgamma agonists. Cells exposed to PPARgamma agonists alone revealed minor cell death compared with controls, whereas treatment with 15d-PGJ(2) or ciglitazone for 4 h subsequent to PHA stimulation significantly increased cell demise, which was attenuated by the pan-caspase inhibitor zVAD, pointing to apoptosis as the underlying mechanism. These data may be relevant for pathophysiological conditions accompanied with lymphopenia of T cells under conditions such as sepsis.

Topics: Apoptosis; Cysteine Proteinase Inhibitors; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Hydrazines; Jurkat Cells; Lymphocyte Activation; Lymphopenia; Nitrogen Oxides; Phytohemagglutinins; Promoter Regions, Genetic; Prostaglandin D2; Pyrimidines; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; T-Lymphocytes; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) has been the focus of studies assessing its potential neuroprotective role. These studies have shown either neuroprotection or neurotoxicity by PPARgamma ligands. Comparison of these studies is complicated by the use of different PPARgamma ligands, mechanisms of neurotoxicity induction, and neuronal cell type. In this study, we compared the effects of the synthetic PPARgamma ligand ciglitazone with an endogenous PPARgamma ligand, 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15-deoxy PGJ(2)), on inherent neurotoxicity and neuroprotection using a reduction in extracellular KCl in rat cultured cerebellar granule neurons (CGN). We also assessed the effects of these ligands on c-Jun protein expression, which is up-regulated on induction of low-KCl-mediated neuronal apoptosis as well as being associated with PPAR in other cell types. We showed that PPARgamma mRNA is expressed in CGN cultures and observed ciglitazone- and 15-deoxy PGJ(2)-mediated inherent neurotoxicity that was concentration and time dependent. c-Jun was only modestly increased in the presence of ciglitazone but was markedly up-regulated by 15-deoxy PGJ(2) after 12 hr. Treatment of CGN cultures with ciglitazone simultaneous with KCl withdrawal resulted in a modest, time-dependent neuroprotection. Such neuroprotection after KCl withdrawal was not observed with 15-deoxy PGJ(2). Despite the absence of neuroprotection, 15-deoxy PGJ(2) markedly inhibited the early up-regulation of c-Jun during KCl withdrawal. These studies suggest that ciglitazone and 15-deoxy PGJ(2) have markedly different effects on inherent and low-KCl-induced toxicity and c-Jun expression in CGN, indicating potential non-PPARgamma mechanisms.

Topics: Animals; Cell Survival; Cells, Cultured; Cerebellum; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Gene Expression Regulation; Ligands; Neurons; Prostaglandin D2; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-jun; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is a nuclear receptor for eicosanoids that promotes differentiation of human epithelial and mesenchymal cells in vitro and in vivo. PPARgamma was proposed as a target for drug-induced differentiation therapy of cancer. Caveolin-1 is a constituent of plasma membrane caveolae in epithelial cells that is often downregulated upon oncogenic transformation. Caveolin-1 has growth-inhibitory activities and its disruption is sufficient to induce transformation in fibroblasts. Herein we have tested the hypothesis that caveolins are transcriptional target genes for PPARgamma. In human HT-29 colon carcinoma cells, thiazolidinedione PPARgamma ligands increased the levels of caveolin-1 and caveolin-2 proteins two to fivefold in a concentration-dependent manner within 24 h. In human MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells, nonthiazolidinedione PPARgamma ligands elevated caveolin-2 protein three to fourfold, while the thiazoli-dinediones were less effective. Caveolin-1 mRNA levels were found to be upregulated by PPARgamma ligands already after 3 h in both the cell lines. Ectopic expression of a dominant-negative PPARgamma construct attenuated ligand-induced upregulation of caveolins in both HT-29 and HEK-293T cells, indicating that ligand action is mediated by PPARgamma. Ligand-treated MCF-7 cells exhibited a differentiated phenotype, as evinced by analysis of cell-specific differentiation markers: protein levels of maspin were elevated and perinuclear lipid droplets accumulated. In contrast, in HT-29 cells, caveolin expression was not correlated with differentiation. Interestingly, PPARgamma partially cofractionated in lipid rafts and could be coimmunoprecipitated from cell lysates with caveolin-1, indicating that PPARgamma and caveolin-1 may coexist in a complex. Our data indicate that PPARgamma participates in the regulation of caveolin gene expression in human carcinoma cells and suggest that caveolin-1 may mediate some of the phenotypic changes induced by this nuclear receptor in cancer cells. These findings may have potentially important functional implications in the context of cancer differentiation therapy and multidrug resistance.

Topics: Adenocarcinoma; Antigens, Differentiation; Antigens, Neoplasm; Breast Neoplasms; Caveolin 1; Caveolin 2; Caveolins; Cell Differentiation; Cell Line; Chromans; Colonic Neoplasms; Dimerization; Drug Resistance, Multiple; Drug Resistance, Neoplasm; Female; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Genes, Dominant; Humans; Kidney; Ligands; Macromolecular Substances; Membrane Microdomains; Neoplasm Proteins; Phenotype; Phenylacetates; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Structure, Tertiary; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; RNA, Neoplasm; Rosiglitazone; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Transcription, Genetic; Troglitazone; Tumor Cells, Cultured

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), one of major hematopoietic growth factors, activates mature leukocytes. GM-CSF is produced by endothelial cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the LPS-induced GM-CSF production may play an important role in the activation of neutrophils on the endothelial surface. 15-Deoxy-delta 12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) is a ligand for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) and modulates inflammatory reactions by regulating the expression of various genes. We studied the effect of 15d-PGJ2 on the LPS-induced GM-CSF expression in endothelial cells. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were cultured and the expressions of GM-CSF mRNA and protein were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. 15d-PGJ2 inhibited the LPS-induced GM-CSF expression in a concentration-dependent manner; but ciglitazone, another agonist for PPAR-gamma, had no effect. This suggests that 15d-PGJ2 inhibits GM-CSF expression through a mechanism unrelated to PPAR-gamma. 15d-PGJ2 induced, by itself, the expression of interleukin-8, a potent proinflammatory chemokine, in HUVEC. 15d-PGJ2 may regulate inflammatory reactions by controlling the balance of various cytokines.

Topics: Cells, Cultured; DNA, Complementary; Down-Regulation; Endothelial Cells; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Gene Expression Regulation; Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor; Humans; Interleukin-8; Lipopolysaccharides; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Asthma is characterized by a predominant T(H)2 type immune response to airborne allergens. Controlling T(H)2 cell function has been proposed as therapy for this disease. We show here that ligands for the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)gamma significantly reduced the immunological symptoms of allergic asthma in a murine model of this disease. A PPARgamma ligand, 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2), significantly inhibited production of the T(H)2 type cytokine IL-5 from T cells activated in vitro. More importantly, in a murine model of allergic asthma, mice treated orally with ciglitazone, a potent synthetic PPARgamma ligand, had significantly reduced lung inflammation and mucous production following induction of allergic asthma. T cells from these ciglitazone treated mice also produced less IFNgamma, IL-4, and IL-2 upon rechallenge in vitro with the model allergen. Our results suggest that ligands for PPARgamma may be effective treatments for asthmatic patients.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Animals; Antigen-Antibody Complex; Asthma; Cells, Cultured; Cytokines; Female; Interleukin-5; Ligands; Lymph Nodes; Male; Mice; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reference Values; Spleen; T-Lymphocytes; Th2 Cells; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Treatment Outcome

We have previously reported that rat primary microglial cultures express the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) and that several functions associated with the activation of these cells, including nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha synthesis, are down-regulated by 15-deoxy-delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and ciglitazone, two specific PPAR-gamma agonists. Here we demonstrate that microglial cells not only express a functionally active PPAR-gamma, but also synthesize large amounts of 15d-PGJ2 upon stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In addition, we show that, although 15d-PGJ2 and ciglitazone were equally effective in reducing microglial activation when used at 1-5 microm concentrations, 15d-PGJ2, but not of ciglitazone, reduced PGE2 production at low concentration (0.1 microm) and induced a time-dependent microglial impairment and apoptosis at high concentration (10 microm). Interestingly, the inhibition of PGE2 production was achieved mainly through the inhibition of cycloxygenase-2 enzymatic activity, as the expression of this enzyme and that of the microsomal isoform of PGE synthase remained unaltered. These findings suggest that 15d-PGJ2 affects the functional state and the survival of activated microglia through mechanisms only in part dependent on PPAR-gamma and that the concentration of 15d-PGJ2 is crucial in determining the particular microglial function affected.

Topics: Animals; Apoptosis; Cell Survival; Cells, Cultured; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Isoenzymes; Lipopolysaccharides; Microglia; Nitric Oxide; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rats; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Signal Transduction; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is a nuclear receptor that controls the expression of several genes involved in metabolic homeostasis. We investigated the role of PPARgamma during the inflammatory response in sepsis by the use of the PPARgamma ligands, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) and ciglitazone. Polymicrobial sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture in rats and was associated with hypotension, multiple organ failure, and 50% mortality. PPARgamma expression was markedly reduced in lung and thoracic aorta after sepsis. Immunohistochemistry showed positive staining for nitrotyrosine and poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase in thoracic aortas. Plasma levels of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 were increased. Elevated activity of myeloperoxidase was found in lung, colon, and liver, indicating a massive infiltration of neutrophils. These events were preceded by degradation of inhibitor kappaBalpha (IkappaBalpha), activation of IkappaB kinase complex, and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase and, subsequently, activation of NF-kappaB and AP-1 in the lung. In vivo treatment with ciglitazone or 15d-PGJ(2) ameliorated hypotension and survival, blunted cytokine production, and reduced neutrophil infiltration in lung, colon, and liver. These beneficial effects of the PPARgamma ligands were associated with the reduction of IkappaB kinase complex and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase activation and the reduction of NF-kappaB and AP-1 DNA binding in the lung. Furthermore, treatment with ciglitazone or 15d-PGJ(2) up-regulated the expression of PPARgamma in lung and thoracic aorta and abolished nitrotyrosine formation and poly(ADP-ribose) expression in aorta. Our data suggest that PPARgamma ligands attenuate the inflammatory response in sepsis through regulation of the NF-kappaB and AP-1 pathways.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Aorta, Thoracic; Bacteremia; Blood Glucose; Blood Pressure; Down-Regulation; I-kappa B Kinase; I-kappa B Proteins; Interleukin-10; Interleukin-6; Leukocyte Count; Ligands; Lung; Male; Microbodies; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 8; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Neutrophil Infiltration; NF-kappa B; NF-KappaB Inhibitor alpha; Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerases; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Sepsis; Signal Transduction; Survival Rate; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factor AP-1; Transcription Factors; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Tyrosine

The expression of epsilon germline transcripts (epsilon GT) induced by interleukin (IL)-4 stimulation is essential for the progression of IgE-directed class switching. In this study, we examined the effects of various ligands for their ability to bind to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and to modify the IL-4-induced epsilon GT expression in the human B cell line DND39. We show here that the PPAR gamma ligand, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), can suppress epsilon GT expression at 1 microM without inhibiting cell proliferation. A synthetic and PPAR gamma-specific ligand, ciglitazone, also suppressed epsilon GT expression in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations between 10 and 50 microM. Agonists for other PPAR isoforms did not affect epsilon GT expression at concentrations between 0.01 and 10 microM. We also demonstrated that 1 microM 15d-PGJ(2) was able to suppress the IL-4-induced phosphorylation of the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 6 (STAT6), which is a transcription factor essential for epsilon GT expression. Therefore, the suppression of STAT6 phosphorylation by 15d-PGJ(2) is thought to participate in the inhibition of epsilon GT expression. These results suggest that PPAR gamma ligands inhibit IL-4-induced IgE class switching in B lymphocytes.

Topics: B-Lymphocytes; Cell Line; Germ Cells; Humans; Immunoglobulin E; Immunoglobulin Heavy Chains; Interleukin-4; Ligands; Phosphorylation; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; STAT6 Transcription Factor; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Trans-Activators; Transcription Factors

Peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) has been demonstrated to exert an inhibitory effect on cell growth in most cell types studied, but its role in colon cancer is still uncertain. The molecular mechanism between the activation of PPARgamma and its consequence is unknown. In the present report, we show that the expression of PPARgamma was significantly increased in tumor tissues from human colon cancer compared with non-tumor tissues and that PPARgamma ligands, 15-Deoxy-delta(12,14)prostaglandin J2 or ciglitizone, induced apoptosis in HT-29 cells, a human colon cancer cell line. The occurrence of apoptosis induced by PPARgamma ligands was sequentially accompanied by reduced levels of NF-kappaB and Bcl-2. Over-expression of Bcl-2 significantly protected the cells from apoptosis. This study suggested that a PPARgamma-Bcl-2 feedback loop may function to control the life-death continuum in colonic cells and that a deficiency in generation of PPARgamma ligands may precede the development of human colon cancer.

Topics: Apoptosis; Cell Division; Cell Survival; Colon; Colonic Neoplasms; DNA-Binding Proteins; Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay; HT29 Cells; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunoenzyme Techniques; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; NF-kappa B; Promoter Regions, Genetic; Prostaglandin D2; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Signal Transduction; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Transcription, Genetic

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) is expressed in certain human cancers; ligand-induced PPARgamma activation can result in growth inhibition and differentiation in these cells. However, the precise mechanism for the antiproliferative effect of PPARgamma ligands is not entirely known.. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of PPARgamma ligands on pancreatic cancer cell growth and invasiveness.. The effect of two PPARgamma ligands, 15 deoxy-delta12,14 prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and ciglitazone, on the growth of four human pancreatic cancer cell lines (BxPC-3, MIA PaCa-2, Panc-1, and L3.6) was assessed. Expression of cell-cycle and apoptotic-related proteins was measured. Finally, the effect of 15d-PGJ2 on pancreatic cancer cell invasiveness and matrix metalloproteinase expression was determined.. Both 15d-PGJ2 and ciglitazone inhibited the growth of all four pancreatic cancer cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. Treatment of BxPC-3 cells with 15d-PGJ2 resulted in a time-dependent decrease in cyclin D1 expression associated with a concomitant induction of p21waf1 and p27kip1. In addition, 15d-PGJ2 treatment induced apoptosis through activation of caspase-8, -9, and -3. Moreover, pancreatic cancer cell invasiveness was significantly suppressed after treatment with a nontoxic dose of 15d-PGJ2, which was associated with a reduction of MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein levels and activity.. These results demonstrate that PPARgamma ligands have the dual advantage of inhibiting pancreatic cancer cell growth while reducing the invasiveness of the tumor cells, suggesting a potential role for these agents in the adjuvant treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Topics: 3T3 Cells; Adenocarcinoma; alpha Catenin; Animals; Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; beta Catenin; Cadherins; Caspase 3; Caspase 8; Caspase 9; Caspases; Cell Cycle; Cell Cycle Proteins; Cell Division; Collagen; Cyclin D1; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p21; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p27; Cyclins; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cytoskeletal Proteins; Drug Combinations; Enzyme Induction; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Humans; Isoenzymes; Laminin; Ligands; Matrix Metalloproteinase 2; Matrix Metalloproteinase 9; Membrane Proteins; Mice; Neoplasm Invasiveness; Neoplasm Proteins; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Proteoglycans; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Trans-Activators; Transcription Factors; Tumor Cells, Cultured; Tumor Suppressor Proteins

Proliferation of intrinsic glomerular cells is a common response to renal injury. Acutely, proliferation may be beneficial, but sustained glomerular hypercellularity after injury is associated with progressive renal failure. To identify endogenous factors that may be responsible for regulating glomerular cell number, the effects of J-series cyclopentenone prostaglandins (PGs) on human glomerular mesangial cell proliferation and death were examined.. Human mesangial cells were grown in the presence or absence of PGJ2 or its metabolite 15-Deoxy-Delta12,14-PGJ2 (15dPGJ2). The number of viable cells was measured by the reduction of the tetrazolium MTS to a colored formazan product. Apoptosis was assessed by caspase-3 activation and DNA fragmentation.. PGJ2 at concentrations up to 10 micromol/L caused mesangial proliferation. 15dPGJ2 also caused mesangial proliferation at low concentrations (< or =2.5 micromol/L), but induced mesangial cell death at higher concentrations (>5 micromol/L). Cell death occurred in part through apoptosis, measured as an increase in caspase-3 activity and DNA fragmentation in 15dPGJ2-treated cells. Cell death was associated with a decline in baseline phosphorylation of the survival factor Akt and increased Akt degradation, whereas 15dPGJ2-induced mesangial proliferation was blocked by inhibition of the PI 3-kinase/Akt pathway. 15dPGJ2 is a potent PPARgamma agonist. Like 15dPGJ2, treatment of mesangial cells with thiazolidinedione-type PPARgamma ligands (10 to 20 micromol/L) caused significant cell death, but at lower concentrations also caused a small degree of proliferation.. J-series prostaglandins thus may be involved in the initiation of glomerular hypercellularity through Akt-dependent proliferation, and restoration of normal glomerular architecture through PPARgamma-mediated apoptosis. Manipulation of these prostaglandins may be relevant to the treatment of progressive glomerular disease.

Topics: 1-Phosphatidylinositol 4-Kinase; Cell Death; Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Chromans; Chromones; Enzyme Inhibitors; Glomerular Mesangium; Humans; Morpholines; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Troglitazone

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is a nuclear receptor transcription factor that regulates adipocyte differentiation and glucose homeostasis. PPARgamma agonists are potent therapeutic agents for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. PPARgamma agonists also prevent inflammation in animal models, suggesting their use for the treatment of human inflammatory diseases. Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a Th1 cell-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease model of multiple sclerosis (MS) and IL-12 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of EAE and MS. In this study we have examined the effect of PPARgamma agonists on the pathogenesis of EAE. In vivo treatment of SJL/J mice with PPARgamma agonists, 15-deoxydelta(12,14) prostaglandin J2 or Ciglitazone, decreased the duration and clinical severity of active immunization and adoptive transfer models of EAE. PPARgamma agonists inhibited EAE in association with a decrease in IL-12 production and differentiation of neural antigen-specific Th1 cells. In vitro treatment of activated T cells with PPARgamma agonists inhibited IL-12-induced activation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway and Th1 differentiation. These findings highlight the fact that PPARgamma agonists regulate central nervous system inflammation and demyelination by inhibiting IL-12 production, IL-12 signaling and Th1 differentiation in EAE.

Topics: Animals; Cell Differentiation; Cells, Cultured; DNA-Binding Proteins; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental; Immunologic Factors; Interleukin-12; Janus Kinase 2; Kinetics; Lymphocyte Activation; Macrophages; Mice; Microglia; Myelin Basic Protein; Prostaglandin D2; Protein-Tyrosine Kinases; Proto-Oncogene Proteins; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Signal Transduction; Spinal Cord; Th1 Cells; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

15-Deoxy-Delta(12-14)-prostaglandin J(2) (dPGJ2) and thiazolidinediones are known as ligands for the peroxisome proliferator activator receptor gamma (PPAR gamma) a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Herein, we show that dPGJ2 activates, in cultured primary astrocytes, Erk, Jnk, p38 MAP kinase, and ASK1, a MAP kinase kinase kinase, which can be involved in the activation of Jnk and p38 MAP kinase. The activation kinetic is similar for the three MAP kinase. The activation of the MAP kinases is detectable around 0.5 h. The activation increases with dPGJ2 in a dose dependent manner (0-15 microm). A scavenger of reactive oxygenated species (ROS), N-acetylcysteine (NAC) at 20 mm, completely suppresses the activation of MAP kinases and ASK1, suggesting a role for oxidative stress in the activation mechanism. Other prostaglandin cyclopentenones than dPGJ2, A(2), and to a lesser degree, A(1) also stimulate the MAP kinases, although they do not bind to PPAR gamma. Ciglitazone (20 microm), a thiazolidinedione that mimics several effects of dPGJ2 in different cell types, also activates the three MAP kinase families and ASK1 in cultured astrocytes. However the activation is more rapid (it is detectable at 0.25 h) and more sustained (it is still strong after 4 h). NAC prevents the activation of the three MAP kinase families by ciglitazone. Another thiazolidinedione that binds to PPAR gamma, rosiglitazone, does not activate MAP kinases, indicating that the effect of ciglitazone on MAP kinases is independent of PPAR gamma. Ciglitazone and less strongly dPGJ2 activate Erk in undifferentiated cells of the adipocyte cell line 1B8. Ciglitazone also activates Jnk and p38 MAP kinase in these preadipocytes. Our findings suggest that a part of the biological effects of dPGJ2 and ciglitazone involve the activation of the three MAP kinase families probably through PPAR gamma-independent mechanisms involving ROS.

Topics: Adipocytes; Animals; Astrocytes; Cells, Cultured; Enzyme Activation; MAP Kinase Signaling System; Prostaglandin D2; Rats; Reactive Oxygen Species; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

In this study, we examined the signaling pathways for extracellular signal-related protein kinase (ERK) activation by three structurally different peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) agonists. In murine C2C12 myoblasts, treatment with 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), ciglitazone, and GW1929 leads to ERK1/2 phosphorylation in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Consistent with ERK phosphorylation, mitogen activated protein/ERK kinase (MEK) phosphorylation as well as Raf-1 kinase activity are also accordingly stimulated, while the constitutive Ser259 phosphorylation of Raf-1 is decreased. The ERK phosphorylation induced by PPARgamma agonists is not blocked by the PKC inhibitors GF109203X and Ro31-8220, the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin, the Ras inhibitor FPTI, the negative mutant of Ras, or the PPARgamma antagonist bisphenol A diglycidil ether. Expression of PPARgamma2 without DNA binding domain or with a nonphosphorylatable mutant (S112A) fails to change ERK phosphorylation by 15d-PGJ(2). On the contrary, the ERK phosphorylation by PPARgamma agonists is inhibited by the MEK inhibitor PD98059, GSH, and permeable SOD mimetic MnTBAP. Chemiluminescence study reveals that these three PPARgamma agonists are able to induce superoxide anion production, with an efficacy similar to their action on ERK phosphorylation. Consistent with this notion, we also show that superoxide anion donor 2,3-dimethoxy-1,4-naphoquinone elicits ERK phosphorylation. In this study, we for the first time demonstrate a novel mechanism, independent of Ras activation but initiated by superoxide anion production, for PPARgamma agonists to trigger the Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Topics: Animals; Benzophenones; Cell Line; MAP Kinase Signaling System; Mice; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Peroxisomes; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Phosphorylation; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Kinase C; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-raf; ras Proteins; Reactive Oxygen Species; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Superoxides; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tyrosine

This study was designed to investigate the effects of various chemically distinct activators of PPAR-gamma and PPAR-alpha in a rat model of acute myocardial infarction. Using Northern blot analysis and RT-PCR in samples of rat heart, we document the expression of the mRNA for PPAR-gamma (isoform 1 but not isoform 2) as well as PPAR-beta and PPAR-alpha in freshly isolated cardiac myocytes and cardiac fibroblasts and in the left and right ventricles of the heart. Using a rat model of regional myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (in vivo), we have discovered that various chemically distinct ligands of PPAR-gamma (including the TZDs rosiglitazone, ciglitazone, and pioglitazone, as well as the cyclopentanone prostaglandins 15D-PGJ2 and PGA1) cause a substantial reduction of myocardial infarct size in the rat. We demonstrate that two distinct ligands of PPAR-alpha (including clofibrate and WY 14643) also cause a substantial reduction of myocardial infarct size in the rat. The most pronounced reduction in infarct size was observed with the endogenous PPAR-gamma ligand, 15-deoxyDelta12,14-prostagalndin J2 (15D-PGJ2). The mechanisms of the cardioprotective effects of 15D-PGJ2 may include 1) activation of PPAR-alpha, 2) activation of PPAR-gamma, 3) expression of HO-1, and 4) inhibition of the activation of NF-kappaB in the ischemic-reperfused heart. Inhibition by 15D-PGJ2 of the activation of NF-kappaB in turn results in a reduction of the 1) expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and the nitration of proteins by peroxynitrite, 2) formation of the chemokine MCP-1, and 3) expression of the adhesion molecule ICAM-1. We speculate that ligands of PPAR-gamma and PPAR-alpha may be useful in the therapy of conditions associated with ischemia-reperfusion of the heart and other organs. Our findings also imply that TZDs and fibrates may help protect the heart against ischemia-reperfusion injury. This beneficial effect of 15D-PGJ2 was associated with a reduction in the expression of the 1) adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and P-selectin, 2) chemokine macrophage chemotactic protein 1, and 3) inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase. 15D-PGJ2 reduced the nitration of proteins (immunohistological analysis of nitrotyrosine formation) caused by ischemia-reperfusion, likely due to the generation of peroxynitrite. Not all of the effects of 15D-PGJ2, however, are due to the activation of PPAR-gamma. For instance, exposure of rat cardiac myocytes to 15D-PGJ2, but not to rosiglitazon

Topics: Adult; Animals; Cardiotonic Agents; Cell Adhesion Molecules; Cell Line; Cells, Cultured; Chemokine CCL2; Clofibrate; Heme Oxygenase (Decyclizing); Heme Oxygenase-1; Humans; Ligands; Male; Membrane Proteins; Myocardial Infarction; Myocardial Reperfusion Injury; Pioglitazone; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins A; Protein Isoforms; Pyrimidines; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Rosiglitazone; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

The mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases mediate the response of renal glomerular mesangial cells to a variety of physiologic and pathologic stimuli. This investigation examines the effect of the cyclopentenone prostaglandin 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) on MAP kinases in human mesangial cells. We show that 15d-PGJ2 dose-dependently increases the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity of human mesangial cells, but has no effect on Jun-NH2-terminal kinase or p38 MAP kinase. Despite the fact that 15d-PGJ2 is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligand, and PPARgamma is shown to be expressed by mesangial cells, the thiazolidinedione PPARgamma agonist ciglitazone does not activate ERK. Additionally, a synthetic PPARgamma antagonist does not attenuate the activation of ERK by 15d-PGJ2. 15d-PGJ2-mediated ERK activation is however blocked by the MEK inhibitor PD 098059, appears to require phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, but is independent of protein kinase C activation. These results demonstrate a novel effect of 15d-PGJ2 to induce ERK in human mesangial cells independently of PPARgamma.

Topics: Cells, Cultured; Cyclopentanes; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Activation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Flavonoids; Glomerular Mesangium; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; JNK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Ligands; MAP Kinase Signaling System; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma is a nuclear hormone receptor that serves as a trans factor to regulate lipid metabolism. Intense interest is focused on PPAR-gamma and its ligands owing to its putative role in adipocyte differentiation. Little is known, however, about the functions of PPAR-gamma in the immune system, especially in T lymphocytes. We demonstrate that both naive and activated ovalbumin-specific T cells from DO11.10-transgenic mice express PPAR-gamma mRNA and protein. In order to determine the function of PPAR-gamma, T cells were stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin or antigen and antigen-presenting cells. Simultaneous exposure to PPAR-gamma ligands (e. g. 15-deoxy-Delta(12, 14)-prostaglandin J(2), troglitazone) showed drastic inhibition of proliferation and significant decreases in cell viability. The decrease in cell viability was due to apoptosis of the T lymphocytes, and occurred only when cells were treated with PPAR-gamma, and not PPAR-alpha agonists, revealing specificity of this response for PPAR-gamma. These observations suggest that PPAR-gamma agonists play an important role in regulating T cell-mediated immune responses by inducing apoptosis. T cell death via PPAR-gamma ligation may act as a potent anti-inflammatory signal in the immune system, and ligands could possibly be used to control disorders in which excessive inflammation occurs.

Topics: Animals; Antigen Presentation; Apoptosis; Cell Division; Cell Survival; Cells, Cultured; Chromans; Flow Cytometry; Immunohistochemistry; In Situ Nick-End Labeling; Ionomycin; Ligands; Lymphocyte Activation; Mice; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Mice, Transgenic; Prostaglandin D2; Pyrimidines; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; T-Lymphocytes; Tetradecanoylphorbol Acetate; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Troglitazone

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear hormone transcription factors that regulate genes associated with lipid and glucose metabolism. Recent evidence suggests that PPAR-gamma may also act as a negative immunomodulator. To investigate the potential role of PPAR-gamma in regulating airway inflammation, we characterized the expression and function of PPAR-gamma in airway epithelial cells. Airway epithelial cells constitutively express PPAR-gamma-specific messenger RNA and protein. Further, airway epithelial PPAR-gamma is inducible by interleukin (IL)-4 in NIH-A549 cells. Two PPAR-gamma agonists, the prostaglandin D2 metabolite 15-deoxy-(Delta)(12,14) prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and a thiazolidinedione, ciglitazone, were used to study the effects of PPAR-gamma activation on airway epithelial cytokine expression. Activation of PPAR-gamma stimulated a PPAR-responsive reporter gene in a ligand-specific manner. In NIH-A549 cells, both ligands also blocked the cytokine-induced expression of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, ciglitazone alone had a slight effect on cytokine-induced IL-8 secretion, but markedly inhibited IL-8 secretion from cells pretreated with IL-4. The demonstration of PPAR-gamma expression and function in airway epithelial cells expands the immunoregulatory role of PPARs and suggests a critical role for PPAR-gamma in antagonizing proinflammatory pathways in the airways.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Cytokines; Down-Regulation; Humans; Inflammation Mediators; Interleukin-4; Interleukin-8; Nitric Oxide Synthase; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Respiratory Mucosa; RNA, Messenger; Signal Transduction; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Release of arachidonic acid from rat liver cells is stimulated after a 6-hour incubation with 9-cis retinoic acid, all trans retinoic acid, the selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma synthetic thiazolidinedione, ciglitazone, the cyclopentenones, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14) PGJ2 and PGA1 and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, celecoxib and indomethacin. The rates of the release stimulated by 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14) PGJ2 differ from those observed with celecoxib. Arachidonic acid release by9-cis retinoic acid in the presence of either ciglitazone or trans retinoic acid is synergistic. It is additive in the presence of celecoxib. Cycloheximide and actinomycin inhibit the release of arachidonic acid stimulated by 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14) PGJ2 but not by celecoxib. The findings indicate that agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma and retinoic acid receptors stimulate the release of arachidonic acid. The mechanisms involved may differ in the cases of 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14) PGJ2 and celecoxib.

Topics: Alitretinoin; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Arachidonic Acid; Celecoxib; Cell Line; Cycloheximide; Dactinomycin; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Synergism; Indomethacin; Kinetics; Liver; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins A; Pyrazoles; Rats; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Receptors, Retinoic Acid; Sulfonamides; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Tretinoin

Apoptosis at the site of rupture has been proposed to play a role in premature rupture of the fetal membranes, a condition associated with increased risk of neonatal sepsis and preterm birth. We investigated the ability of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma ligands 15-deoxy-delta12,14PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2), delta12PGJ2, ciglitizone and rosiglitazone to induce apoptosis in the amnion-like WISH cell line. 15d-PGJ2 (10 microM) induced morphological characteristics of apoptosis within 2 h, with biochemical indices (caspase activation and substrate cleavage) following shortly after; maximum cell death (approximately 60%) was observed by 16 h, with an EC50) of approximately 7 microM 15d-PGJ2. Delta12-PGJ2 also induced apoptosis but was less potent and acted at a much slower rate. While ciglitizone also induced apoptosis, rosiglitazone had no effect on cell viability. The mechanism of induction of apoptosis by 15d-PGJ2 and delta12PGJ2, which may be independent of PPAR-gamma activation, requires further elucidation.

Topics: Amino Acid Chloromethyl Ketones; Amnion; Apoptosis; Caspase Inhibitors; Caspases; Cell Survival; Cells, Cultured; Cysteine Proteinase Inhibitors; Enzyme Activation; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Immunologic Factors; Ligands; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Rosiglitazone; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Time Factors; Transcription Factors

During liver injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) acquire a myofibroblast-like phenotype associated with reduction of lipid droplets, increased collagen synthesis, and proliferation. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) regulates adipocyte differentiation and controls gene transcription in response to various activators including prostanoids and antidiabetic thiazolidinediones. We explored whether the presence of PPARgamma and its transcriptional activity were involved in control of HSC proliferation in vitro. PPARgamma ligands, 15-deoxy-triangle up(1214) prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)) and ciglitizone, significantly decrease platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced proliferation in activated human HSC and inhibit alpha smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) expression during HSC transdifferentiation. Treatment with 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cisRA) and LG268, ligands of the heterodimerization partner retinoic X receptor (RXR), had a negligible effect in PDGF-treated cells but caused a further reduction of proliferation when used in combination with ciglitizone. Transfection experiments with a reporter gene consisting of 3 copies of a PPAR response element (peroxisome proliferator response element [PPRE](3)-tk-luciferase) showed a progressive reduction of PPAR transcriptional activity during plastic-induced HSC transdifferentiation. Cotransfection with human PPARgamma expression vector restored the PPRE(3)-tk-luciferase reporter expression and the increased level of the receptor in activated HSC-inhibited cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Incubation of human PPARgamma-cotransfected HSC with PDGF strongly inhibited luciferase activity and this effect was blocked by the inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signal cascade. Our results indicate that depression of PPARgamma expression and activity is involved in HSC proliferation and that the PPARgamma ligand-mediated activation exerts a previously unrecognized inhibition of PDGF-induced mitogenesis in activated human HSC.

Topics: Cell Differentiation; Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Gene Expression; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Liver; Platelet-Derived Growth Factor; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Transcription, Genetic; Transfection

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of transcription factors belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily. Until recently, the genes regulated by PPARs were those believed to be predominantly associated with lipid metabolism. Recently, an immunomodulatory role for PPAR gamma has been described in cells critical to the innate immune system, the monocyte/macrophage. In addition, evidence for an antiinflammatory role of the PPAR gamma ligand, 15-deoxy-Delta 12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2) has been found. In the present studies, we demonstrate, for the first time, that murine helper T cell clones and freshly isolated splenocytes express PPAR gamma 1. The PPAR gamma expressed is of functional significance in that two ligands for PPAR gamma, 15d-PGJ2 and a thiazolidinedione, ciglitazone, mediate significant inhibition of proliferative responses of both the T cell clones and the freshly isolated splenocytes. This inhibition is mediated directly at the level of the T cell and not at the level of the macrophage/APC. Finally, we demonstrate that the two ligands for PPAR gamma mediate inhibition of IL-2 secretion by the T cell clones while not inhibiting IL-2-induced proliferation of such clones. The demonstration of the expression and function of PPAR gamma in T cells reveals a new level of immunoregulatory control for PPARs and significantly increases the role and importance of PPAR gamma in immunoregulation.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Animals; Binding Sites, Antibody; CD3 Complex; Clone Cells; Female; Immune Sera; Immunosuppressive Agents; Interleukin-2; Lymphocyte Activation; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Microbodies; Nuclear Proteins; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Spleen; T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma is a nuclear lipid-activable receptor controlling the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. In order to investigate the possible role of PPAR-gamma in the differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells, we examined its expression in the human colon carcinoma cell line Caco-2, which undergoes rapid cell differentiation in the presence of butyrate. PPARs were quantified on mRNA level by RT competitive multiplex PCR, the corresponding proteins were determined by Western blot. In contrast to PPAR-alpha and PPAR-beta, PPAR-gamma mRNA and protein increased significantly in butyrate-treated Caco-2 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This effect was butyrate-specific, since no change in PPAR-gamma expression could be observed after incubation with propionate or valerate. Activation of PPAR-gamma by ciglitazone further increased butyrate-induced cell differentiation dose-dependently. These data demonstrate a role for PPAR-gamma in the regulation of cell differentiation in Caco-2 cells.

Topics: Alkaline Phosphatase; Blotting, Western; Butyrates; Caco-2 Cells; Cell Differentiation; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Activation; Humans; Pentanoic Acids; Propionates; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Substrate Specificity; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Up-Regulation

We report the isolation by RT-PCR of partial cDNAs encoding the human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) isoforms PPARbeta and -gamma in human primary astrocytes (HPA) as well as in the human malignant astrocytoma cell line T98G. In contrast, we failed to detect PPARalpha mRNA in either of these two cell types. Because PPARbeta is ubiquitously expressed but has, as yet, no known function, we pursued our functional studies of these cells with regard to PPARgamma. To that end, we showed that PPARgamma protein is abundantly expressed in both cell types, having a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa. Immunocytochemistry revealed a predominantly nuclear localization of this receptor. Moreover, incubation of the two cell types with 1-12 mcM 15-deoxy PGJ(2) or 1-12 mcM ciglitazone, both of which are agonists of PPARgamma, induced loss of cellular viability as assessed by the MTT assay after a 4 hr incubation. Reduced cellular viability as a consequence of exposure to PGJ(2) or ciglitazone resulted from induction of apoptosis, as assessed by DNA fragmentation and Hoechst staining, and involves activation of the CPP32 (caspase-3) protease. These data show that modulation of the process of apoptosis is one function of PPARgamma in cells derived from the human astrocytic lineage.

Topics: Apoptosis; Astrocytes; Caspase 3; Caspases; Cell Survival; DNA Fragmentation; Gene Expression; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Peroxisomes; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

The research described herein evaluates the expression and functional significance of peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) on B-lineage cells. Normal mouse B cells and a variety of B lymphoma cells reflective of stages of B cell differentiation (e.g., 70Z/3, CH31, WEHI-231, CH12, and J558) express PPAR-gamma mRNA and, by Western blot analysis, the 67-kDa PPAR-gamma protein. 15-Deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), a PPAR-gamma agonist, has a dose-dependent antiproliferative and cytotoxic effect on normal and malignant B cells as shown by [(3)H]thymidine and 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays. Only PPAR-gamma agonists (thiazolidinediones), and not PPAR-alpha agonists, mimicked the effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on B-lineage cells, indicating that the mechanism by which 15d-PGJ(2) negatively affects B-lineage cells involves in part PPAR-gamma. The mechanism by which PPAR-gamma agonists induce cytotoxicity is via apoptosis, as shown by annexin V staining and as confirmed by DNA fragmentation detected using the TUNEL assay. Interestingly, addition of PGF(2alpha), which was not known to affect lymphocytes, dramatically attenuated the deleterious effects of PPAR-gamma agonists on B lymphomas. Surprisingly, 15d-PGJ(2) induced a massive increase in nuclear mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, and pretreatment with PGF(2alpha) blunted the mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. This is the first study evaluating PPAR-gamma expression and its significance on B lymphocytes. PPAR-gamma agonists may serve as a counterbalance to the stimulating effects of other PGs, namely PGE(2), which promotes B cell differentiation. Finally, the use of PGs, such as 15d-PGJ(2), and synthetic PPAR-gamma agonists to induce apoptosis in B-lineage cells may lead to the development of novel therapies for fatal B lymphomas.

Topics: Animals; Apoptosis; B-Lymphocytes; Cell Lineage; Cells, Cultured; Chromans; Dinoprost; Hypoglycemic Agents; Lymphoma, B-Cell; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C3H; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Inbred DBA; Prostaglandin D2; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Troglitazone; Tumor Cells, Cultured

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) is a nuclear receptor that functions as a transcription factor to mediate ligand-dependent transcriptional regulation. Activation of PPARgamma by the naturally occurring ligand, 15-deoxy-Delta12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2), or members of a new class of oral antidiabetic agents, e.g. BRL49653 and ciglitizone, has been linked to adipocyte differentiation, regulation of glucose homeostasis, inhibition of macrophage and monocyte activation, and inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. Here we report that human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) express PPARgamma mRNA and protein. Activation of PPARgamma by the specific ligands 15d-PGJ2, BRL49653, or ciglitizone, dose dependently suppresses HUVEC differentiation into tube-like structures in three-dimensional collagen gels. In contrast, specific PPARalpha and -beta ligands do not affect tube formation although mRNA for these receptors are expressed in HUVEC. PPARgamma ligands also inhibit the proliferative response of HUVEC to exogenous growth factors. Treatment of HUVEC with 15d-PGJ2 also reduced mRNA levels of vascular endothelial cell growth factor receptors 1 (Flt-1) and 2 (Flk/KDR) and urokinase plasminogen activator and increased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) mRNA. Finally, administration of 15d-PGJ2 inhibited vascular endothelial cell growth factor-induced angiogenesis in the rat cornea. These observations demonstrate that PPARgamma ligands are potent inhibitors of angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, and suggest that PPARgamma may be an important molecular target for the development of small-molecule inhibitors of angiogenesis.

Topics: Animals; Cell Differentiation; Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Cornea; Eicosanoids; Endothelium, Vascular; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Ligands; Neovascularization, Physiologic; Prostaglandin D2; Rats; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; RNA, Messenger; Rosiglitazone; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

A prominent functional change during differentiation of lutein cells from follicular thecal and granulosa cells is an enhanced production and secretion of progestins. The regulation of this process is not fully understood but may be associated with the expression of transcription factors which activate genes, products of which are involved in pathways of the cholesterol and lipid metabolism. As peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) play a role in both pathways, we were interested in the expression of PPARgamma, a PPAR form which is involved in adipogenic differentiation. First, we were able to show the expression of PPARgamma in bovine lutein cells (day 12 of the ovarian cycle) at the mRNA and protein level by imaging, flow cytometry and blot analysis, and secondly a role of PPARgamma in the secretion of progesterone. The cells (24 h culture) responded dose dependently by increasing progesterone secretion (up to 1.5-fold of the basal level) to an endogenous ligand of PPARgamma, 15-deoxy-delta12,14 prostaglandin J2 (15-dPGJ2) and to the thiazolidinedione ciglitizone. Aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA) was found to reduce the intracellular PPARgamma level and to promote cell cycle progress, indicating that ATA can be used as a tool for experimental changes of PPARgamma proteins in intact cells and for studying the physiological consequences. The ATA-mediated decrease of PPARgamma was accompanied by reduced progesterone production and a progression of the cell cycle, suggesting a function of PPARgamma in both processes. The response to ATA was abrogated by a high dose (>490 nM) of 15-dPGJ2, suggesting that 15-dPGJ2 exerts its effect on steroidogenic activity via PPARgamma and that the 15-dPGJ2-PPARgamma system plays a role in the maintenance of a differentiated quiescent stage in lutein cells.

Topics: Analysis of Variance; Animals; Aurintricarboxylic Acid; Cattle; Cell Cycle; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Flow Cytometry; Granulosa Cells; Hypoglycemic Agents; Luteal Cells; Luteinizing Hormone; Microscopy, Fluorescence; Progesterone; Prostaglandin D2; Protein Isoforms; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Receptors, LH; RNA, Messenger; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors

Prostaglandins (PGs) of the J2 series form in vivo and exert effects on a variety of biological processes. While most of PGs mediate their effects through G protein-coupled receptors, the mechanism of action for the J2 series of PGs remains unclear. Here, we report the PGJ2 and its derivatives are efficacious activators of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors alpha and gamma (PPAR alpha and PPAR gamma, respectively), orphan nuclear receptors implicated in lipid homeostasis and adipocyte differentiation. The PGJ2 metabolite 15-deoxy-delta 12,14-PGJ2 binds directly to PPAR gamma and promotes efficient differentiation of C3H10T1/2 fibroblasts to adipocytes. These data provide strong evidence that a fatty acid metabolite can function as an adipogenic agent through direct interactions with PPAR gamma and furthermore, suggest a novel mechanism of action for PGs of the J2 series.

Topics: Adipocytes; Animals; Binding, Competitive; Cell Differentiation; Cells, Cultured; Fibroblasts; Hypoglycemic Agents; Ligands; Mice; Microbodies; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins; Pyrimidines; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; Recombinant Fusion Proteins; Rosiglitazone; Signal Transduction; Thiazoles; Thiazolidinediones; Transcription Factors; Transcriptional Activation