Transglutaminase 2 is secreted from smooth muscle cells by transamidation-dependent microparticle formation

Amino Acids. 2012 Feb;42(2-3):961-73. doi: 10.1007/s00726-011-1010-3. Epub 2011 Aug 10.

Abstract

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a pleiotropic enzyme involved in both intra- and extracellular processes. In the extracellular matrix, TG2 stabilizes the matrix by both covalent cross-linking and disulfide isomerase activity. These functions become especially apparent during matrix remodeling as seen in wound healing, tumor development and vascular remodeling. However, TG2 lacks the signal sequence for a classical secretory mechanism, and the cellular mechanism of TG2 secretion is currently unknown. We developed a green fluorescent TG2 fusion protein to study the hypothesis that TG2 is secreted via microparticles. Characterization of TG2/eGFP, using HEK/293T cells with a low endogenous TG2 expression, showed that cross-linking activity and fibronectin binding were unaffected. Transfection of TG2/eGFP into smooth muscle cells resulted in the formation of microparticles (MPs) enriched in TG2, as detected both by immunofluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry. The fraction of TG2-positive MPs was significantly lower for cross-linking-deficient mutants of TG2, implicating a functional role for TG2 in the formation of MPs. In conclusion, the current data suggest that TG2 is secreted from the cell via microparticles through a process regulated by TG2 cross-linking.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amides / metabolism*
  • Cell Line
  • Fibronectins / metabolism
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Smooth / cytology
  • Muscle, Smooth / metabolism*
  • Protein Glutamine gamma Glutamyltransferase 2
  • Subcellular Fractions / enzymology
  • Transglutaminases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Amides
  • Fibronectins
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Protein Glutamine gamma Glutamyltransferase 2
  • Transglutaminases
  • GTP-Binding Proteins