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Relationship between intact cell ATP levels and glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity in the AtT-20 cell
Abstract:
This study tested the relationship between intact cell ATP levels and glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity in the AtT-20 mouse pituitary tumor cell. Four treatments were used to alter intact cell ATP levels: incubation with NaF, incubation with 2,4-dinitrophenol, alterations in culture age, and incubation with dexamethasone. Each of these treatments clearly altered glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity. Their effects on ATP levels, however, were not the same: NaF decreased ATP levels, dinitrophenol decreased ATP levels only transiently, and the last two treatments (increasing culture age and incubation with dexamethasone) produced an inverse relationship between ATP levels and receptor-binding capacity. It is concluded that, at least in the intact AtT-20 cell, receptor-binding capacity is not always directly related to ATP levels.
Insights
Cellular ATP levels and glucocorticoid receptor binding capacity were examined in mouse pituitary tumor cells. Findings indicate receptor binding capacity is not always directly related to ATP levels in intact cells.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling is crucial for cellular function.
- Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy currency of the cell.
- The relationship between cellular energy status and GR binding capacity requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between intact cell ATP levels and glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity.
- To determine how various treatments affecting ATP levels influence GR binding in AtT-20 cells.
Main Methods:
- AtT-20 mouse pituitary tumor cells were utilized.
- Cellular ATP levels were manipulated using sodium fluoride (NaF), 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP), varying culture age, and dexamethasone treatment.
- Glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity was assessed following these treatments.
Main Results:
- All tested treatments altered glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity.
- NaF and DNP treatments decreased ATP levels.
- Increasing culture age and dexamethasone treatment showed an inverse relationship between ATP levels and GR binding capacity.
Conclusions:
- Glucocorticoid receptor-binding capacity is not consistently and directly proportional to intact cell ATP levels in AtT-20 cells.
- Cellular energy status may have a complex, non-linear influence on GR function.
