Effects of an E-cadherin-derived peptide on the gene expression of Caco-2 cells

Abstract

Purpose. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of exposure to an HAV peptide (Ac-SHAVSS-NH 2) on the protein and gene expression in Caco-2 cells, a model for the intestinal mucosa. Methods. Caco-2 cells were incubated with either 100 or 500 μM of the hexapeptide then evaluated over a 48-h time period. Results. Cell detachment from the monolayer was seen only after 48 h of exposure to the peptide, with the greatest effects occurring with a peptide concentration of 500 μM. Total protein expression of E-cadherin showed a decrease of nearly 20% at the 24-h time point for each concentration examined, whereas no significant changes were detected at the other time points studied. Short term exposure to a 500 μM solution of Ac-SHAVSS-NH 2 caused few changes in gene expression as determined by Affymetrix GeneChip® microarrays; however, longer exposure periods produced numerous changes in the treated cells. The variations in mRNA expression indicate that this HAV peptide has an effect in the E-cadherin signaling pathways. The greatest increases in mRNA expression were found in genes regulating excretion or degradation of the peptide. Conclusions. This work suggests that this HAV peptide produces effects that reach beyond modulation of adhesion. © 2004 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.