Protein kinase Cbeta isoform down-regulates the expression of MDR3 P-glycoprotein in human Chang liver cells

Satoshi Suzuki1, Hisao Hayashi, Kenji Takagi

  • 1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokuriku University, Ho-3, Kanagawa-machi, Kanazawa 920-1181, Japan.

Insights

Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) reduces MDR3 protein levels in liver cells. Protein kinase C beta (PKCbeta) is identified as a key regulator in this process, influencing MDR3 expression.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • MDR3 protein transports phosphatidylcholine on the canalicular membrane of human hepatocytes.
  • Previous studies demonstrated phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) down-regulates MDR3 mRNA expression in Chang liver cells.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the specific protein kinase C (PKC) isoform involved in regulating MDR3 protein levels.
  • To investigate the mechanism by which PMA affects MDR3 protein expression.

Main Methods:

  • Treatment of human Chang liver cells with PMA.
  • Application of PKC-specific inhibitors (GF109203X, Gö6976) and antisense oligonucleotides for PKCalpha and PKCbeta.
  • Quantification of MDR3 protein levels and mRNA expression.

Main Results:

  • PMA treatment decreased MDR3 protein levels by approximately 50% over 3-5 days.
  • Non-selective PKC inhibitor GF109203X and selective PKCalpha/beta inhibitor Gö6976 antagonized the PMA-induced decrease in MDR3 protein.
  • Antisense oligonucleotides targeting PKCbeta, but not PKCalpha, attenuated the suppressive effect of PMA on MDR3 mRNA, suggesting PKCbeta's regulatory role.

Conclusions:

  • PKCbeta plays a significant regulatory role in the expression of MDR3 protein in human hepatocytes.
  • The findings elucidate a novel signaling pathway involving PKCbeta in the regulation of MDR3, a key transporter in bile formation.