Kai Schuh

Publications of Kai Schuh

• Stress-dependent dilated cardiomyopathy in mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted inactivation of cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase I.

  Authors: Stefan Frantz, Michael Klaiber, Hideo A Baba, Heike Oberwinkler, Katharina Völker, Birgit Gaβner, Barbara Bayer, Marco Abeβer, Kai Schuh, Robert Feil, Franz Hofmann, Michaela Kuhn

  European heart journal. 12/2011;

  AimsCardiac hypertrophy is a common and often lethal complication of arterial hypertension. Elevation of myocyte cyclic GMP levels by local actions of endogenous atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) andAimsCardiac hypertrophy is a common and often lethal complication of arterial hypertension. Elevation of myocyte cyclic GMP levels by local actions of endogenous atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) or by pharmacological inhibition of phosphodiesterase-5 was shown to counter-regulate pathological hypertrophy. It was suggested that cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (cGKI) mediates this protective effect, although the role in vivo is under debate. Here, we investigated whether cGKI modulates myocyte growth and/or function in the intact organism.Methods and resultsTo circumvent the systemic phenotype associated with germline ablation of cGKI, we inactivated the murine cGKI gene selectively in cardiomyocytes by Cre/loxP-mediated recombination. Mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted cGKI deletion exhibited unaltered cardiac morphology and function under resting conditions. Also, cardiac hypertrophic and contractile responses to β-adrenoreceptor stimulation by isoprenaline (at 40 mg/kg/day during 1 week) were unaltered. However, angiotensin II (Ang II, at 1000 ng/kg/min for 2 weeks) or transverse aortic constriction (for 3 weeks) provoked dilated cardiomyopathy with marked deterioration of cardiac function. This was accompanied by diminished expression of the [Ca(2+)](i)-regulating proteins SERCA2a and phospholamban (PLB) and a reduction in PLB phosphorylation at Ser(16), the specific target site for cGKI, resulting in altered myocyte Ca(2+)(i) homeostasis. In isolated adult myocytes, CNP, but not ANP, stimulated PLB phosphorylation, Ca(2+)(i)-handling, and contractility via cGKI.ConclusionThese results indicate that the loss of cGKI in cardiac myocytes compromises the hypertrophic program to pathological stimulation, rendering the heart more susceptible to dysfunction. In particular, cGKI mediates stimulatory effects of CNP on myocyte Ca(2+)(i) handling and contractility.

• Impaired melanoma growth in VASP deficient mice.

  Authors: Young Min Kim, Christoph Renné, Stefanie Seifert, Kai Schuh, Thomas Renné

  FEBS letters. 08/2011; 585(15):2533-6.

  Progression of tumors depends on interactions of cancer cells with the host environment. Expression of the cytoskeleton protein VASP is upregulated in various cancer entities. We analyzed the role ofProgression of tumors depends on interactions of cancer cells with the host environment. Expression of the cytoskeleton protein VASP is upregulated in various cancer entities. We analyzed the role of VASP for melanoma growth in murine allograft models. Growth of VASP expressing melanomas was retarded in VASP(-/-) versus wild-type animals. Over time tumor size was <50% in VASP(-/-) versus wild-type animals and independent of expression levels of Ena/VASP protein family members. Histological analyses showed smaller cells with impaired nutrition status and less vascularization in melanomas derived from VASP(-/-) versus counterparts from wild-type mice. Cumulatively, the data reveal a critical role of VASP in non-tumor cells in the tumor environment for melanoma growth in vivo.

• Identification of SPRED2 (sprouty-related protein with EVH1 domain 2) as a negative regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

  Authors: Melanie Ullrich, Karin Bundschu, Peter M Benz, Marco Abesser, Ruth Freudinger, Tobias Fischer, Julia Ullrich, Thomas Renné, Ulrich Walter, Kai Schuh

  The Journal of biological chemistry. 01/2011; 286(11):9477-88.

  Sprouty-related proteins with EVH1 (enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology 1) domain (SPREDs) are inhibitors of MAPK signaling. To elucidate SPRED2 in vivo function, we characterizedSprouty-related proteins with EVH1 (enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology 1) domain (SPREDs) are inhibitors of MAPK signaling. To elucidate SPRED2 in vivo function, we characterized body homeostasis in SPRED2(-/-) mice. They showed a doubled daily water uptake, induced by elevated serum osmolality, originating from increased blood salt load. Accordingly, serum aldosterone was doubled, accompanied by augmented adrenal aldosterone synthase (AS) expression. Surprisingly, serum vasopressin (AVP) was unaltered, and, as evidenced by halved angiotensin II (Ang II) levels, the renin angiotensin system (RAS) was down-regulated. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was significantly elevated in SPRED2(-/-) mice, together with its secretagogue corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its downstream target corticosterone. ERK phosphorylation in brains was augmented, and hypothalamic CRH mRNA levels were elevated, both contributing to the increased CRH release. Our data were supported by CRH promoter reporter assays in hypothalamic mHypoE-44 cells, revealing a SPRED-dependent inhibition of Ets (ERK/E-twenty-six)-dependent transcription. Furthermore, SPRED suppressed CRH production in these cells. In conclusion, our study suggests that SPRED2 deficiency leads to an increased MAPK signaling, which results in an augmented CRH promoter activity. The subsequent CRH overproduction causes an up-regulation of downstream hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) hormone secretion. This constitutes a possible trigger for the observed compulsive grooming in SPRED2(-/-) mice and may, together with hyperplasia of aldosterone-producing cells, contribute to the hyperaldosteronism and homeostatic imbalances.

• Conditional overexpression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase is cardioprotective in ischemia/reperfusion.

  Authors: Natalie Burkard, Tatjana Williams, Martin Czolbe, Nadja Blömer, Franziska Panther, Martin Link, Daniela Fraccarollo, Julian D Widder, Kai Hu, Hong Han, Ulrich Hofmann, Stefan Frantz, Peter Nordbeck, Jan Bulla, Kai Schuh, Oliver Ritter

  Circulation. 10/2010; 122(16):1588-603.

  We previously demonstrated that conditional overexpression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibited L-type Ca2+ channels and decreased myocardial contractility. However, nNOS has multipleWe previously demonstrated that conditional overexpression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibited L-type Ca2+ channels and decreased myocardial contractility. However, nNOS has multiple targets within the cardiac myocyte. We now hypothesize that nNOS overexpression is cardioprotective after ischemia/reperfusion because of inhibition of mitochondrial function and a reduction in reactive oxygen species generation. Ischemia/reperfusion injury in wild-type mice resulted in nNOS accumulation in the mitochondria. Similarly, transgenic nNOS overexpression caused nNOS abundance in mitochondria. nNOS translocation into the mitochondria was dependent on heat shock protein 90. Ischemia/reperfusion experiments in isolated hearts showed a cardioprotective effect of nNOS overexpression. Infarct size in vivo was also significantly reduced. nNOS overexpression also caused a significant increase in mitochondrial nitrite levels accompanied by a decrease of cytochrome c oxidase activity. Accordingly, O(2) consumption in isolated heart muscle strips was decreased in nNOS-overexpressing nNOS(+)/αMHC-tTA(+) mice already under resting conditions. Additionally, we found that the reactive oxygen species concentration was significantly decreased in hearts of nNOS-overexpressing nNOS(+)/αMHC-tTA(+) mice compared with noninduced nNOS(+)/αMHC-tTA(+) animals. We demonstrated that conditional transgenic overexpression of nNOS resulted in myocardial protection after ischemia/reperfusion injury. Besides a reduction in reactive oxygen species generation, this might be caused by nitrite-mediated inhibition of mitochondrial function, which reduced myocardial oxygen consumption already under baseline conditions.

• Spred2 expression during mouse development.

  Authors: Ioana Laura Tuduce, Kai Schuh, Karin Bundschu

  Developmental dynamics : an official publication of the American Association of Anatomists. 09/2010; 239(11):3072-85.

  SPREDs (Sprouty-related proteins with Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology-1 domain) are known membrane-associated modulators of receptor tyrosine kinases by inhibiting theSPREDs (Sprouty-related proteins with Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology-1 domain) are known membrane-associated modulators of receptor tyrosine kinases by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Although Spred2(-/-) mice exhibit dwarfism and increase of early haematopoiesis, the precise expression and role of SPRED2 in mouse development remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate a detailed Spred2 expression pattern during mouse development using X-Gal stainings from samples of a gene-trapped Spred2 mouse line. In early stages, Spred2 was highly expressed in ectodermal and mesodermal tissues, and later on in developing neural tissue, heart, lung, intestine, urogenital tract, and limbs. Strikingly, we observed that Spred2 was mainly expressed at leading edges of further outgrowing structures and in folds of newly forming grooves. Therefore, SPRED2 is likely involved in the regulation of dynamic developmental processes. These new data provide valuable information for further studies regarding the still enigmatic physiological SPRED functions during mouse development.

• Deficiency of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) increases blood-brain-barrier damage and edema formation after ischemic stroke in mice.

  Authors: Peter Kraft, Peter Michael Benz, Madeleine Austinat, Marc Elmar Brede, Kai Schuh, Ulrich Walter, Guido Stoll, Christoph Kleinschnitz

  PloS one. 01/2010; 5(12):e15106.

  Stroke-induced brain edema formation is a frequent cause of secondary infarct growth and deterioration of neurological function. The molecular mechanisms underlying edema formation after stroke areStroke-induced brain edema formation is a frequent cause of secondary infarct growth and deterioration of neurological function. The molecular mechanisms underlying edema formation after stroke are largely unknown. Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is an important regulator of actin dynamics and stabilizes endothelial barriers through interaction with cell-cell contacts and focal adhesion sites. Hypoxia has been shown to foster vascular leakage by downregulation of VASP in vitro but the significance of VASP for regulating vascular permeability in the hypoxic brain in vivo awaits clarification. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced in Vasp(-/-) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Evan's Blue tracer was applied to visualize the extent of blood-brain-barrier (BBB) damage. Brain edema formation and infarct volumes were calculated from 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC)-stained brain slices. Both mouse groups were carefully controlled for anatomical and physiological parameters relevant for edema formation and stroke outcome. BBB damage (p<0.05) and edema volumes (1.7 mm(3)±0.5 mm(3) versus 0.8 mm(3)±0.4 mm(3); p<0.0001) were significantly enhanced in Vasp(-/-) mice compared to controls on day 1 after tMCAO. This was accompanied by a significant increase in infarct size (56.1 mm(3)±17.3 mm(3) versus 39.3 mm(3)±10.7 mm(3), respectively; p<0.01) and a non significant trend (p>0.05) towards worse neurological outcomes. Our study identifies VASP as critical regulator of BBB maintenance during acute ischemic stroke. Therapeutic modulation of VASP or VASP-dependent signalling pathways could become a novel strategy to combat excessive edema formation in ischemic brain damage.

• Differential VASP phosphorylation controls remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton.

  Authors: Peter M Benz, Constanze Blume, Stefanie Seifert, Sabine Wilhelm, Jens Waschke, Kai Schuh, Frank Gertler, Thomas Münzel, Thomas Renné

  Journal of cell science. 10/2009;

  Proteins of the Enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (Ena/VASP) family link signal transduction pathways to actin cytoskeleton dynamics. VASP is substrate of cAMP-dependent, cGMP-dependentProteins of the Enabled/vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (Ena/VASP) family link signal transduction pathways to actin cytoskeleton dynamics. VASP is substrate of cAMP-dependent, cGMP-dependent and AMP-activated protein kinases that primarily phosphorylate the sites S157, S239 and T278, respectively. Here, we systematically analyzed functions of VASP phosphorylation patterns for actin assembly and subcellular targeting in vivo and compared the phosphorylation effects of Ena/VASP family members. Methods used were the reconstitution of VASP-null cells with 'locked' phosphomimetic VASP mutants, actin polymerization of VASP mutants in vitro and in living cells, site-specific kinase-mediated VASP phosphorylation, and analysis of the endogenous protein with phosphorylation-status-specific antibodies. Phosphorylation at S157 influenced VASP localization, but had a minor impact on F-actin assembly. Phosphorylation of the S157-equivalent site in the Ena/VASP family members Mena and EVL had no effect on the ratio of cellular F-actin to G-actin. By contrast, VASP phosphorylation at S239 (and the equivalent site in Mena) or T278 impaired VASP-driven actin filament formation. The data show that VASP functions are precisely regulated by differential phosphorylation and provide new insights into cytoskeletal control by serine/threonine kinase-dependent signaling pathways.

• Gene trap: knockout on the fast lane.

  Authors: Melanie Ullrich, Kai Schuh

  Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.). 02/2009; 561:145-59.

  Gene trapping is a powerful tool to ablate gene function and to analyze in vivo promoter activity of the trapped gene in parallel. The gene trap strategy is not as commonly used as the conventionalGene trapping is a powerful tool to ablate gene function and to analyze in vivo promoter activity of the trapped gene in parallel. The gene trap strategy is not as commonly used as the conventional gene-targeting strategy, although it offers appealing options. Nowadays, a wide collection of embryonic stem cell clones, with a huge variety of trapped genes, have been identified and are available through the members of the International Gene Trap Consortium (IGTC). This chapter focuses on BLAST searches for the appropriate stem cell clones, the confirmation of vector insertion by RT-PCR or X-Gal staining, and the characterization of the exact insertion site to develop a PCR-based genotyping strategy. Furthermore, protocols to follow the activity of the commonly used beta-galactosidase reporter are given.

• Cytoskeleton assembly at endothelial cell-cell contacts is regulated by alphaII-spectrin-VASP complexes.

  Authors: Peter M Benz, Constanze Blume, Jan Moebius, Chris Oschatz, Kai Schuh, Albert Sickmann, Ulrich Walter, Stephan M Feller, Thomas Renné

  The Journal of cell biology. 02/2008; 180(1):205-19.

  Directed cortical actin assembly is the driving force for intercellular adhesion. Regulated by phosphorylation, vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) participates in actin fiber formation. WeDirected cortical actin assembly is the driving force for intercellular adhesion. Regulated by phosphorylation, vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) participates in actin fiber formation. We screened for endothelial proteins, which bind to VASP, dependent on its phosphorylation status. Differential proteomics identified alphaII-spectrin as such a VASP-interacting protein. alphaII-Spectrin binds to the VASP triple GP(5)-motif via its SH3 domain. cAMP-dependent protein kinase-mediated VASP phosphorylation at Ser157 inhibits alphaII-spectrin-VASP binding. VASP is dephosphorylated upon formation of cell-cell contacts and in confluent, but not in sparse cells, alphaII-spectrin colocalizes with nonphosphorylated VASP at cell-cell junctions. Ectopic expression of the alphaII-spectrin SH3 domain at cell-cell contacts translocates VASP, initiates cortical actin cytoskeleton formation, stabilizes cell-cell contacts, and decreases endothelial permeability. Conversely, the permeability of VASP-deficient endothelial cells (ECs) and microvessels of VASP-null mice increases. Reconstitution of VASP-deficient ECs rescues barrier function, whereas alphaII-spectrin binding-deficient VASP mutants fail to restore elevated permeability. We propose that alphaII-spectrin-VASP complexes regulate cortical actin cytoskeleton assembly with implications for vascular permeability.

• Getting a first clue about SPRED functions.

  Authors: Karin Bundschu, Ulrich Walter, Kai Schuh

  BioEssays : news and reviews in molecular, cellular and developmental biology. 10/2007; 29(9):897-907.

  Spreds form a new protein family with an N-terminal Enabled/VASP homology 1 domain (EVH1), a central c-Kit binding domain (KBD) and a C-terminal Sprouty-related domain (SPR). They are able to inhibitSpreds form a new protein family with an N-terminal Enabled/VASP homology 1 domain (EVH1), a central c-Kit binding domain (KBD) and a C-terminal Sprouty-related domain (SPR). They are able to inhibit the Ras-ERK signalling pathway after various mitogenic stimulations. In mice, Spred proteins are identified as regulators of bone morphogenesis, hematopoietic processes, allergen-induced airway eosinophilia and hyperresponsiveness. They inhibit cell motility and metastasis and have a high potential as tumor markers and suppressors of carcinogenesis. Moreover, in vertebrates, XtSpreds help together with XtSprouty proteins to coordinate gastrulation and mesoderm specification. Here, we give an overview of this new field and summarize the domain functions, binding partners, expression patterns and the cellular localizations, regulations and functions of Spred proteins and try to give perspectives for future scientific directions.

• Neuronal nitric oxide synthase signaling in the heart is regulated by the sarcolemmal calcium pump 4b.

  Authors: Delvac Oceandy, Elizabeth J Cartwright, Michael Emerson, Sukhpal Prehar, Florence M Baudoin, Min Zi, Nasser Alatwi, Luigi Venetucci, Kai Schuh, Judith C Williams, Angel L Armesilla, Ludwig Neyses

  Circulation. 02/2007; 115(4):483-92.

  BACKGROUND: Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) has recently been shown to be a major regulator of cardiac contractility. In a cellular system, we have previously shown that nNOS is regulated byBACKGROUND: Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) has recently been shown to be a major regulator of cardiac contractility. In a cellular system, we have previously shown that nNOS is regulated by the isoform 4b of plasma membrane calcium/calmodulin-dependent ATPase (PMCA4b) through direct interaction mediated by a PDZ domain (PSD 95, Drosophilia Discs large protein and Zona occludens-1) on nNOS and a cognate ligand on PMCA4b. It remains unknown, however, whether this interaction has physiological relevance in the heart in vivo. METHODS AND RESULTS: We generated 2 strains of transgenic mice overexpressing either human PMCA4b or PMCA ct120 in the heart. PMCA ct120 is a highly active mutant form of the pump that does not interact with or modulate nNOS function. Calcium was extruded normally from PMCA4b-overexpressing cardiomyocytes, but in vivo, overexpression of PMCA4b reduced the beta-adrenergic contractile response. This attenuated response was not observed in ct120 transgenic mice. Treatment with a specific nNOS inhibitor (N omega-propyl-L-arginine) reduced the beta-adrenergic response in wild-type and ct120 transgenic mice to levels comparable to those of PMCA4b transgenic animals. No differences in lusitropic response were observed in either transgenic strain compared with wild-type littermates. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate the physiological relevance of the interaction between PMCA4b and nNOS and suggests its signaling role in the heart.

• Conditional neuronal nitric oxide synthase overexpression impairs myocardial contractility.

  Authors: Natalie Burkard, Adam G Rokita, Susann G Kaufmann, Matthias Hallhuber, Rongxue Wu, Kai Hu, Ulrich Hofmann, Andreas Bonz, Stefan Frantz, Elizabeth J Cartwright, Ludwig Neyses, Lars S Maier, Sebastian K G Maier, Thomas Renné, Kai Schuh, Oliver Ritter

  Circulation research. 02/2007; 100(3):e32-44.

  The role of the neuronal NO synthase (nNOS or NOS1) enzyme in the control of cardiac function still remains unclear. Results from nNOS(-/-) mice or from pharmacological inhibition of nNOS areThe role of the neuronal NO synthase (nNOS or NOS1) enzyme in the control of cardiac function still remains unclear. Results from nNOS(-/-) mice or from pharmacological inhibition of nNOS are contradictory and do not pay tribute to the fact that probably spatial confinement of the nNOS enzyme is of major importance. We hypothesize that the close proximity of nNOS and certain effector molecules like L-type Ca(2+)-channels has an impact on myocardial contractility. To test this, we generated a new transgenic mouse model allowing conditional, myocardial specific nNOS overexpression. Western blot analysis of transgenic nNOS overexpression showed a 6-fold increase in nNOS protein expression compared with noninduced littermates (n=12; P<0.01). Measuring of total NOS activity by conversion of [(3)H]-l-arginine to [(3)H]-l-citrulline showed a 30% increase in nNOS overexpressing mice (n=18; P<0.05). After a 2 week induction, nNOS overexpression mice showed reduced myocardial contractility. In vivo examinations of the nNOS overexpressing mice revealed a 17+/-3% decrease of +dp/dt(max) compared with noninduced mice (P<0.05). Likewise, ejection fraction was reduced significantly (42% versus 65%; n=15; P<0.05). Interestingly, coimmunoprecipitation experiments indicated interaction of nNOS with SR Ca(2+)ATPase and additionally with L-type Ca(2+)- channels in nNOS overexpressing animals. Accordingly, in adult isolated cardiac myocytes, I(Ca,L) density was significantly decreased in the nNOS overexpressing cells. Intracellular Ca(2+)-transients and fractional shortening in cardiomyocytes were also clearly impaired in nNOS overexpressing mice versus noninduced littermates. In conclusion, conditional myocardial specific overexpression of nNOS in a transgenic animal model reduced myocardial contractility. We suggest that nNOS might suppress the function of L-type Ca(2+)-channels and in turn reduces Ca(2+)-transients which accounts for the negative inotropic effect.

• The VASP-Spred-Sprouty domain puzzle.

  Authors: Karin Bundschu, Ulrich Walter, Kai Schuh

  The Journal of biological chemistry. 01/2007; 281(48):36477-81.

  Sprouty-related proteins with an EVH1 domain (Spreds) belong to a new protein family harboring a conserved N-terminal EVH1 domain, which is related to the VASP (vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein)Sprouty-related proteins with an EVH1 domain (Spreds) belong to a new protein family harboring a conserved N-terminal EVH1 domain, which is related to the VASP (vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein) EVH1 domain (Enabled/VASP homology 1 domain) and a C-terminal Sprouty-related domain, typical for Sprouty proteins. Spreds were, like Sproutys, initially discovered as inhibitors of the Ras/MAPK pathway, and the SPR (Sprouty-related) domains of both protein families seem to be very important for many protein interactions and cellular processes. VASP was initially characterized as a proline-rich substrate of protein kinases A and G in human platelets and later shown to be a scaffold protein, regulating both signal transduction pathways and the actin filament system. The VASP-EVH1 domain is known to bind specifically to a FP(4) binding motif, which is, for example, present in the focal adhesion proteins vinculin and zyxin. In this review we give a structural and functional overview on these three protein families and ask whether nature plays a modular protein domain puzzle with stable exchangeable elements or if these closely related domains have various functions when pasted in a different protein context.

• Inhibition of nuclear import of calcineurin prevents myocardial hypertrophy.

  Authors: Matthias Hallhuber, Natalie Burkard, Rongxue Wu, Mamta H Buch, Stefan Engelhardt, Lutz Hein, Ludwig Neyses, Kai Schuh, Oliver Ritter

  Circulation research. 10/2006; 99(6):626-35.

  The time that transcription factors remain nuclear is a major determinant for transcriptional activity. It has recently been demonstrated that the phosphatase calcineurin is translocated to theThe time that transcription factors remain nuclear is a major determinant for transcriptional activity. It has recently been demonstrated that the phosphatase calcineurin is translocated to the nucleus with the transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT). This study identifies a nuclear localization sequence (NLS) and a nuclear export signal (NES) in the sequence of calcineurin. Furthermore we identified the nuclear cargo protein importinbeta(1) to be responsible for nuclear translocation of calcineurin. Inhibition of the calcineurin/importin interaction by a competitive peptide (KQECKIKYSERV), which mimicked the calcineurin NLS, prevented nuclear entry of calcineurin. A noninhibitory control peptide did not interfere with the calcineurin/importin binding. Using this approach, we were able to prevent the development of myocardial hypertrophy. In angiotensin II-stimulated cardiomyocytes, [(3)H]-leucine incorporation (159%+/-9 versus 111%+/-11; P<0.01) and cell size were suppressed significantly by the NLS peptide compared with a control peptide. The NLS peptide inhibited calcineurin/NF-AT transcriptional activity (227%+/-11 versus 133%+/-8; P<0.01), whereas calcineurin phosphatase activity was unaffected (298%+/-9 versus 270%+/-11; P=NS). We conclude that calcineurin is not only capable of dephosphorylating NF-AT, thus enabling its nuclear import, but the presence of calcineurin in the nucleus is also important for full NF-AT transcriptional activity.

• Tissue-specific Spred-2 promoter activity characterized by a gene trap approach.

  Authors: Karin Bundschu, Stefan Gattenlöhner, Klaus-Peter Knobeloch, Ulrich Walter, Kai Schuh

  Gene expression patterns : GEP. 04/2006; 6(3):247-55.

  Spreds (Sprouty-related proteins with an Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology-1 domain) are a new protein family inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalingSpreds (Sprouty-related proteins with an Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein homology-1 domain) are a new protein family inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Different RNA and protein studies already revealed an almost ubiquitous Spred-2 expression pattern. But until now, only few data were available on the in situ Spred-2 promoter activity. Here, we show a detailed in situ analysis of a mouse strain with a trapped Spred-2 gene, bringing a beta-galactosidase and neomycin fusion gene (beta-geo) under the control of the endogenous Spred-2 promoter. This allowed us to monitor Spred-2 promoter activity in practically every organ and their corresponding sub-compartments. X-Gal staining of newborn and adult mice revealed a nearly congruent Spred-2 promoter activity pattern. Our detailed data provide information for further studies of the still enigmatic physiological functions of Spred-2 in various organs by identifying the tissues with strong Spred-2 promoter activity.

• Targeting coagulation factor XII provides protection from pathological thrombosis in cerebral ischemia without interfering with hemostasis.

  Authors: Christoph Kleinschnitz, Guido Stoll, Martin Bendszus, Kai Schuh, Hans-Ulrich Pauer, Peter Burfeind, Christoph Renné, David Gailani, Bernhard Nieswandt, Thomas Renné

  The Journal of experimental medicine. 04/2006; 203(3):513-8.

  Formation of fibrin is critical for limiting blood loss at a site of blood vessel injury (hemostasis), but may also contribute to vascular thrombosis. Hereditary deficiency of factor XII (FXII), theFormation of fibrin is critical for limiting blood loss at a site of blood vessel injury (hemostasis), but may also contribute to vascular thrombosis. Hereditary deficiency of factor XII (FXII), the protease that triggers the intrinsic pathway of coagulation in vitro, is not associated with spontaneous or excessive injury-related bleeding, indicating FXII is not required for hemostasis. We demonstrate that deficiency or inhibition of FXII protects mice from ischemic brain injury. After transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, the volume of infarcted brain in FXII-deficient and FXII inhibitor-treated mice was substantially less than in wild-type controls, without an increase in infarct-associated hemorrhage. Targeting FXII reduced fibrin formation in ischemic vessels, and reconstitution of FXII-deficient mice with human FXII restored fibrin deposition. Mice deficient in the FXII substrate factor XI were similarly protected from vessel-occluding fibrin formation, suggesting that FXII contributes to pathologic clotting through the intrinsic pathway. These data demonstrate that some processes involved in pathologic thrombus formation are distinct from those required for normal hemostasis. As FXII appears to be instrumental in pathologic fibrin formation but dispensable for hemostasis, FXII inhibition may offer a selective and safe strategy for preventing stroke and other thromboembolic diseases.

• Fibroblast migration after myocardial infarction is regulated by transient SPARC expression.

  Authors: Rong Xue Wu, Martin Laser, Hong Han, Jeeva Varadarajulu, Kai Schuh, Matthias Hallhuber, Kai Hu, Georg Ertl, Christof R Hauck, Oliver Ritter

  Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany). 04/2006; 84(3):241-52.

  Secreted protein, acidic, and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is thought to regulate cell matrix interaction during wound repair. We hypothesized that SPARC might promote migration via integrin-dependentSecreted protein, acidic, and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is thought to regulate cell matrix interaction during wound repair. We hypothesized that SPARC might promote migration via integrin-dependent mechanisms. The present study was designed to clarify the contribution of SPARC in the wound healing process after myocardial infarction (MI). Adult mice received a specific alpha(v) integrin inhibitor or vehicle through osmotic mini pumps. Mice of each group were either sham-operated or MI was induced. SPARC expression was investigated 2 days, 7 days, and 1 month after the surgical procedure. For migration assays, a modified Boyden chamber assay was used. A transient increase of SPARC levels was observed, starting at day 2 (2.55+/-0.21), day 7 (3.72+/-0.28), and 1 month (1.9+/-0.16) after MI. After 2 months, SPARC expression dropped back to normal levels compared to sham-operated hearts. Immunofluorescence analysis showed an increase of SPARC in the infarcted area 2 days after MI, a strong increase in the scar area 7 days after MI, and only low levels in the scar area 2 months after MI. Integrin alpha(v) inhibition abolished the up-regulation of SPARC. In vitro migration assays demonstrated that fibronectin-stimulated haptotaxis of fibroblasts was modulated by SPARC. This study provides evidence that SPARC is significantly up-regulated in the infarcted region after MI. This up-regulation is dependent on alpha(v) integrins. As SPARC is found to regulate fibroblast migration, it appears to play an important role in the injured myocardium with regard to healing and scar formation.

• Platelets promote coagulation factor XII-mediated proteolytic cascade systems in plasma.

  Authors: Julia Johne, Constanze Blume, Peter M Benz, Miroslava Pozgajová, Melanie Ullrich, Kai Schuh, Bernhard Nieswandt, Ulrich Walter, Thomas Renné

  Biological chemistry. 03/2006; 387(2):173-8.

  Blood coagulation factor XII (FXII, Hageman factor) is a plasma serine protease which is autoactivated following contact with negatively charged surfaces in a reaction involving plasma kallikrein andBlood coagulation factor XII (FXII, Hageman factor) is a plasma serine protease which is autoactivated following contact with negatively charged surfaces in a reaction involving plasma kallikrein and high-molecular-weight kininogen (contact phase activation). Active FXII has the ability to initiate blood clotting via the intrinsic pathway of coagulation and inflammatory reactions via the kallikrein-kinin system. Here we have determined FXII-mediated bradykinin formation and clotting in plasma. Western blotting analysis with specific antibodies against various parts of the contact factors revealed that limited activation of FXII is sufficient to promote plasma kallikrein activation, resulting in the conversion of high-molecular-weight kininogen and bradykinin generation. The presence of platelets significantly promoted FXII-initiated bradykinin formation. Similarly, in vitro clotting assays revealed that platelets critically promoted FXII-driven thrombin and fibrin formation. In summary, our data suggest that FXII-initiated protease cascades may proceed on platelet surfaces, with implications for inflammation and clotting.

• Local bradykinin formation is controlled by glycosaminoglycans.

  Authors: Thomas Renné, Kai Schuh, Werner Müller-Esterl

  Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). 10/2005; 175(5):3377-85.

  Bradykinin is a potent inflammatory mediator that induces vasodilation, vascular leakage, and pain sensations. This short-lived peptide hormone is liberated from its large precursor protein highBradykinin is a potent inflammatory mediator that induces vasodilation, vascular leakage, and pain sensations. This short-lived peptide hormone is liberated from its large precursor protein high molecular weight kininogen (HK) through the contact system cascade involving coagulation factor XII and plasma kallikrein. Although bradykinin release is well established in vitro, the factors and mechanisms controlling bradykinin generation in vivo are still incompletely understood. In this study we demonstrate that binding of HK to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) of the heparan and chondroitin sulfate type efficiently interferes with bradykinin release in plasma and on endothelial surfaces. Proteolytic bradykinin production on endothelial cells is restored following degradation of cell surface GAG through heparinase. Alternatively, application of HK fragments D3 or light chain, which compete with uncleaved HK for cell binding, promote kininogen proteolysis and bradykinin release. Intravital microscopy revealed that HK fragments increase bradykinin-mediated mesentery microvascular leakage. Topical application of D3 or light chain enhanced bradykinin generation and edema formation in the mouse skin. Our results demonstrate that bradykinin formation is controlled by HK binding to and detachment from GAGs. Separation of the precursor from cell surfaces is a prerequisite for its efficient proteolytic processing. By this means, fragments arising from HK processing propagate bradykinin generation, revealing a novel regulatory level for the kallikrein-kinin system.

• Calcium transport in cardiovascular health and disease--the sarcolemmal calcium pump enters the stage.

  Authors: Elizabeth J Cartwright, Kai Schuh, Ludwig Neyses

  Journal of molecular and cellular cardiology. 10/2005; 39(3):403-6.

  Calcium is known to be one of the most important ionic regulators of the heart, where it has a crucial role in contraction-relaxation. Within a single beat of the cardiomyocyte there is a 100-foldCalcium is known to be one of the most important ionic regulators of the heart, where it has a crucial role in contraction-relaxation. Within a single beat of the cardiomyocyte there is a 100-fold increase in the cytosolic free Ca(2+) level, this must be returned to its original concentration in order to maintain the normal physiological function of the cell. Two of the mechanisms involved in returning the Ca(2+) concentration back to resting levels are located at the sarcolemma; the sodium/calcium exchanger (NCX) and the sarcolemmal calcium pump. Compared to the NCX the sarcolemmal calcium pump extrudes significantly less calcium from the cardiomyocyte and has long been thought to be involved in the maintenance of low diastolic calcium levels. This review will outline recent evidence suggesting that the sarcolemmal calcium pump may in fact play a key role in signal transduction in the cardiovascular system.