Blunted hepcidin response to inflammation in the absence of Hfe and transferrin receptor 2

Blood ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 117 (10) ◽  
pp. 2960-2966 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel F. Wallace ◽  
Cameron J. McDonald ◽  
Lesa Ostini ◽  
V. Nathan Subramaniam
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Serum Iron ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Homeostatic Regulation ◽  
Wild Type ◽  
Regulatory Peptide ◽  
Basal Expression ◽  
Low Levels ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

AbstractThe induction of the iron-regulatory peptide hepcidin by proinflammatory cytokines is thought to result in the withholding of iron from invading pathogens. Hfe and transferrin receptor 2 (Tfr2) are involved in the homeostatic regulation of hepcidin and their disruption causes hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). To determine whether either Hfe or Tfr2 is involved in the inflammatory pathway regulating hepcidin, we analyzed the effect of inflammation in 3 mouse models of HH. The inflammatory response and indicators of iron homeostasis were measured in wild-type, Hfe−/−, Tfr2−/−, and Hfe−/−/Tfr2−/− mice injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The administration of LPS significantly reduced serum iron in wild-type and Hfe−/− mice, with smaller reductions in Tfr2−/− and Hfe−/−/Tfr2−/− mice. Low basal levels of hepcidin in the Hfe−/−/Tfr2−/− mice were increased in response to LPS, but remained significantly lower than in the other strains of mice. These results suggest that despite the absence of Hfe and Tfr2, hepcidin is responsive to inflammation; however, the low basal expression and subsequent low levels of circulating hepcidin are insufficient to reduce serum iron effectively. This suggests that in HH, the iron-withholding response to invading pathogens may be inadequate, and this is especially the case in the absence of both Hfe and Tfr2.

Defective trafficking and localization of mutated transferrin receptor 2: implications for type 3 hereditary hemochromatosis

2008 ◽  
Vol 294 (2) ◽  
pp. C383-C390 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel F. Wallace ◽  
Lesa Summerville ◽  
Emily M. Crampton ◽  
V. Nathan Subramaniam
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Wild Type ◽  
Mouse Liver Cell ◽  
Functional Consequences ◽  
Consequences Of Disease ◽  
Type 3 ◽  
Mutant Forms ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

Transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2), a homologue of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1), is a key molecule involved in the regulation of iron homeostasis. Mutations in TfR2 result in iron overload with similar features to HFE-associated hereditary hemochromatosis. The precise role of TfR2 in iron metabolism and the functional consequences of disease-causing mutations have not been fully determined. We have expressed wild-type and various mutant forms of TfR2 that are associated with human disease in a mouse liver cell line. Intracellular and surface analysis shows that all the TfR2 mutations analyzed cause the intracellular retention of the protein in the endoplasmic reticulum, whereas the wild-type protein is expressed in endocytic structures and at the cell surface. Our results indicate that the majority of mutations that cause type 3 hereditary hemochromatosis are a consequence of the defective localization of the protein.

scholarly journals The Functional Versatility of Transferrin Receptor 2 and Its Therapeutic Value

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 115 ◽  
Author(s):  
Antonella Roetto ◽  
Mariarosa Mezzanotte ◽  
Rosa Pellegrino
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Iron Regulation ◽  
Role Taking ◽  
Therapeutic Value ◽  
Living Organisms ◽  
Type 3 ◽  
Functional Versatility ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

Iron homeostasis is a tightly regulated process in all living organisms because this metal is essential for cellular metabolism, but could be extremely toxic when present in excess. In mammals, there is a complex pathway devoted to iron regulation, whose key protein is hepcidin (Hepc), which is a powerful iron absorption inhibitor mainly produced by the liver. Transferrin receptor 2 (Tfr2) is one of the hepcidin regulators, and mutations in TFR2 gene are responsible for type 3 hereditary hemochromatosis (HFE3), a genetically heterogeneous disease characterized by systemic iron overload. It has been recently pointed out that Hepc production and iron regulation could be exerted also in tissues other than liver, and that Tfr2 has an extrahepatic role in iron metabolism as well. This review summarizes all the most recent data on Tfr2 extrahepatic role, taking into account the putative distinct roles of the two main Tfr2 isoforms, Tfr2α and Tfr2β. Representing Hepc modulation an effective approach to correct iron balance impairment in common human diseases, and with Tfr2 being one of its regulators, it would be worthwhile to envisage Tfr2 as a therapeutic target.

Diferric transferrin regulates transferrin receptor 2 protein stability

Blood ◽  
2004 ◽  
Vol 104 (13) ◽  
pp. 4287-4293 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martha B. Johnson ◽  
Caroline A. Enns
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Transmembrane Protein ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Pcr Analysis ◽  
Mrna Levels ◽  
Dependent Manner ◽  
Diferric Transferrin ◽  
In Cells ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

Abstract Transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2) is a type 2 transmembrane protein expressed in hepatocytes that binds iron-bound transferrin (Tf). Mutations in TfR2 cause one form of hereditary hemochromatosis, a disease in which excessive absorption of dietary iron can lead to liver cirrhosis, diabetes, arthritis, and heart failure. The function of TfR2 in iron homeostasis is unknown. We have studied the regulation of TfR2 in HepG2 cells. Western blot analysis shows that TfR2 increases in a time- and dose-dependent manner after diferric Tf is added to the culture medium. In cells exposed to diferric Tf, the amount of TfR2 returns to control levels within 8 hours after the removal of diferric Tf from the medium. However, TfR2 does not increase when non–Tf-bound iron (FeNTA) or apo Tf is added to the medium. The response to diferric Tf appears to be hepatocyte specific. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis shows that TfR2 mRNA levels do not change in cells exposed to diferric Tf. Rather, the increase in TfR2 is attributed to an increase in the half-life of TfR2 protein in cells exposed to diferric Tf. Our results support a role for TfR2 in monitoring iron levels by sensing changes in the concentration of diferric Tf.

scholarly journals Hepatocyte-targeted HFE and TFR2 control hepcidin expression in mice

Blood ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 115 (16) ◽  
pp. 3374-3381 ◽  
Author(s):  
Junwei Gao ◽  
Juxing Chen ◽  
Ivana De Domenico ◽  
David M. Koeller ◽  
Cary O. Harding ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Serum Iron ◽  
Protein Complexes ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Wild Type ◽  
Specific Expression ◽  
Adeno Associated Virus ◽  
Hepcidin Expression ◽  
Hepcidin Mrna ◽  
Deficient Mice

Abstract Hereditary hemochromatosis is caused by mutations in the hereditary hemochromatosis protein (HFE), transferrin-receptor 2 (TfR2), hemojuvelin, hepcidin, or ferroportin genes. Hepcidin is a key iron regulator, which is secreted by the liver, and decreases serum iron levels by causing the down-regulation of the iron transporter, ferroportin. Mutations in either HFE or TfR2 lower hepcidin levels, implying that both HFE and TfR2 are necessary for regulation of hepcidin expression. In this study, we used a recombinant adeno-associated virus, AAV2/8, for hepatocyte-specific expression of either Hfe or Tfr2 in mice. Expression of Hfe in Hfe-null mice both increased Hfe and hepcidin mRNA and lowered hepatic iron and Tf saturation. Expression of Tfr2 in Tfr2-deficient mice had a similar effect, whereas expression of Hfe in Tfr2-deficient mice or of Tfr2 in Hfe-null mice had no effect on liver or serum iron levels. Expression of Hfe in wild-type mice increased hepcidin mRNA and lowered iron levels. In contrast, expression of Tfr2 had no effect on wild-type mice. These findings suggest that Hfe is limiting in formation of the Hfe/Tfr2 complex that regulates hepcidin expression. In addition, these studies show that the use of recombinant AAV vector to deliver genes is a promising approach for studying physiologic consequences of protein complexes.

scholarly journals The Effect of the Flavonol Rutin on Serum and Liver Iron Content in a Genetic Mouse Model of Iron Overload

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zachary Hawula ◽  
Eriza Secondes ◽  
Daniel Wallace ◽  
Gautam Rishi ◽  
V. Nathan Subramaniam
Keyword(s):  
Mouse Model ◽  
Iron Overload ◽  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Binding Capacity ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Transferrin Saturation ◽  
Iron Loading ◽  
Genetic Mouse Model ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

The flavonol rutin has been shown to possess antioxidant and iron chelating properties in vitro and in vivo. These dual properties are beneficial as therapeutic options to reduce iron accumulation and the generation of reactive oxygen species resultant from excess free iron. The effect of rutin on iron metabolism has been limited to studies performed in wild type mice either injected or fed high iron diets. The effect of rutin on iron overload caused by genetic dysregulation of iron homeostasis has not yet been investigated. In this study we examined the effect of rutin treatment on tissue iron loading in a genetic mouse model of iron overload, which mirrors the iron loading associated with Type 3 hereditary hemochromatosis patients who have a defect in Transferrin Receptor 2. Male Transferrin Receptor 2 knockout mice were administered rutin via oral gavage for 21 continuous days. Following treatment, iron levels in serum, liver, duodenum, and spleen were assessed. In addition, hepatic ferritin protein levels were determined by western blotting, and expression of iron homeostasis genes by quantitative real-time PCR. Rutin treatment resulted in a significant reduction in hepatic ferritin protein expression and serum transferrin saturation. In addition, trends towards decreased iron levels in the liver and serum, and increased serum unsaturated iron binding capacity were observed. This is the first study to explore the utility of rutin as a potential iron chelator and therapeutic in an animal model of genetic iron overload.

scholarly journals Heterotypic interactions between transferrin receptor and transferrin receptor 2

Blood ◽  
2003 ◽  
Vol 101 (5) ◽  
pp. 2008-2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Todd M. Vogt ◽  
Aaron D. Blackwell ◽  
Anthony M. Giannetti ◽  
Pamela J. Bjorkman ◽  
Caroline A. Enns
Keyword(s):  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Iron Uptake ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Hereditary Hemochromatosis ◽  
Metabolic Labeling ◽  
Western Blots ◽  
Cellular Iron ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

Cellular iron uptake in most tissues occurs via endocytosis of diferric transferrin (Tf) bound to the transferrin receptor (TfR). Recently, a second transferrin receptor, transferrin receptor 2 (TfR2), has been identified and shown to play a critical role in iron metabolism. TfR2 is capable of Tf-mediated iron uptake and mutations in this gene result in a rare form of hereditary hemochromatosis unrelated to the hereditary hemochromatosis protein, HFE. Unlike TfR, TfR2 expression is not controlled by cellular iron concentrations and little information is currently available regarding the role of TfR2 in cellular iron homeostasis. To investigate the relationship between TfR and TfR2, we performed a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments using antibodies generated to each receptor. Western blots demonstrate that TfR2 protein is expressed strongest in erythroid/myeloid cell lines. Metabolic labeling studies indicate that TfR2 protein levels are approximately 20-fold lower than TfR in these cells. TfR and TfR2 have similar cellular localizations in K562 cells and coimmunoprecipitate to only a very limited extent. Western analysis of the receptors under nonreducing conditions reveals that they can form heterodimers.

scholarly journals Variability of the Transferrin Receptor 2 Gene in AMD

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Wysokinski ◽  
Janusz Blasiak ◽  
Mariola Dorecka ◽  
Marta Kowalska ◽  
Jacek Robaszkiewicz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Oxidative Stress ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Fenton Reaction ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Age Related Macular Degeneration ◽  
Age Related ◽  
Its Gene ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

Oxidative stress is a major factor in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Iron may catalyze the Fenton reaction resulting in overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Transferrin receptor 2 plays a critical role in iron homeostasis and variability in its gene may influence oxidative stress and AMD occurrence. To verify this hypothesis we assessed the association between polymorphisms of theTFR2gene and AMD. A total of 493 AMD patients and 171 matched controls were genotyped for the two polymorphisms of theTFR2gene: c.1892C>T (rs2075674) and c.−258+123T>C (rs4434553). We also assessed the modulation of some AMD risk factors by these polymorphisms. The CC and TT genotypes of the c.1892C>T were associated with AMD occurrence but the latter only in obese patients. The other polymorphism was not associated with AMD occurrence, but the CC genotype was correlated with an increasing AMD frequency in subjects withBMI<26. The TT genotype and the T allele of this polymorphism decreased AMD occurrence in subjects above 72 years, whereas the TC genotype and the C allele increased occurrence of AMD in this group. The c.1892C>T and c.−258+123T>C polymorphisms of theTRF2gene may be associated with AMD occurrence, either directly or by modulation of risk factors.

scholarly journals Gender biased neuroprotective effect of Transferrin Receptor 2 deletion in multiple models of Parkinson’s disease

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chiara Milanese ◽  
Sylvia Gabriels ◽  
Sander Barnhoorn ◽  
Silvia Cerri ◽  
Ayse Ulusoy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Parkinson’S Disease ◽  
Parkinson's Disease ◽  
Substantia Nigra ◽  
Iron Overload ◽  
Transferrin Receptor ◽  
Dopaminergic Neurons ◽  
Iron Homeostasis ◽  
Alpha Synuclein ◽  
Substantia Nigra Pars Compacta ◽  
Transferrin Receptor 2

AbstractAlterations in the metabolism of iron and its accumulation in the substantia nigra pars compacta accompany the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Changes in iron homeostasis also occur during aging, which constitutes a PD major risk factor. As such, mitigation of iron overload via chelation strategies has been considered a plausible disease modifying approach. Iron chelation, however, is imperfect because of general undesired side effects and lack of specificity; more effective approaches would rely on targeting distinctive pathways responsible for iron overload in brain regions relevant to PD and, in particular, the substantia nigra. We have previously demonstrated that the Transferrin/Transferrin Receptor 2 (TfR2) iron import mechanism functions in nigral dopaminergic neurons, is perturbed in PD models and patients, and therefore constitutes a potential therapeutic target to halt iron accumulation. To validate this hypothesis, we generated mice with targeted deletion of TfR2 in dopaminergic neurons. In these animals, we modeled PD with multiple approaches, based either on neurotoxin exposure or alpha-synuclein proteotoxic mechanisms. We found that TfR2 deletion can provide neuroprotection against dopaminergic degeneration, and against PD- and aging-related iron overload. The effects, however, were significantly more pronounced in females rather than in males. Our data indicate that the TfR2 iron import pathway represents an amenable strategy to hamper PD progression. Data also suggest, however, that therapeutic strategies targeting TfR2 should consider a potential sexual dimorphism in neuroprotective response.

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