CREB, AP-1, ternary complex factors and MAP kinases connect transient receptor potential melastatin-3 (TRPM3) channel stimulation with increased c-Fos expression

Abstract

Background and Purpose The rise in intracellular Ca2+ stimulates the expression of the transcription factor c-Fos. Depending on the mode of entry of Ca2+ into the cytosol, distinct signal transducers and transcription factors are required. Here, we have analysed the signalling pathway connecting a Ca2+ influx via activation of transient receptor potential melastatin-3 (TRPM3) channels with enhanced c-Fos expression. Experimental Approach Transcription of c-Fos promoter/reporter genes that were integrated into the chromatin via lentiviral gene transfer was analysed in HEK293 cells overexpressing TRPM3. The transcriptional activation potential of c-Fos was measured using a GAL4-c-Fos fusion protein. Key Results The signalling pathway connecting TRPM3 stimulation with enhanced c-Fos expression requires the activation of MAP kinases. On the transcriptional level, three Ca2+-responsive elements, the cAMP-response element and the binding sites for the serum response factor (SRF) and AP-1, are essential for the TRPM3-mediated stimulation of the c-Fos promoter. Ternary complex factors are additionally involved in connecting TRPM3 stimulation with the up-regulation of c-Fos expression. Stimulation of TRPM3 channels also increases the transcriptional activation potential of c-Fos. Conclusions and Implications Signalling molecules involved in connecting TRPM3 with the c-Fos gene are MAP kinases and the transcription factors CREB, SRF, AP-1 and ternary complex factors. As c-Fos constitutes, together with other basic region leucine zipper transcription factors, the AP-1 transcription factor complex, the results of this study explain TRPM3-induced activation of AP-1 and connects TRPM3 with the biological functions regulated by AP-1.