Bradykinin‐mediated cell proliferation depends on transactivation of EGF receptor in corneal fibroblasts

In previous studies, bradykinin (BK) has been shown to induce cell proliferation through BK B2 receptor (B2R) via p42/p44 MAPK in Statens Seruminstitut Rabbit Corneal Cells (SIRCs). In addition to this pathway, EGFR transactivation pathway has been implicated in linking a variety of G‐protein coupled receptors to MAPK cascades. Here, we further investigate whether these transactivation mechanisms participating in BK‐induced cell proliferation in SIRCs. Using an immunofluorescence staining and RT‐PCR, we initially characterize that SIRCs were corneal fibroblasts and predominantly expressed B2R by BK. Inhibition of p42/p44 MAPK by the inhibitors of Src, EGFR, and Akt or transfection with respective siRNAs prevents BK‐induced DNA synthesis in SIRCs. The mechanisms underlying these responses were mediated through phosphorylation of Src and EGFR via the formation of Src/EGFR complex which was attenuated by PP1 and AG1478. Moreover, BK‐induced p42/p44 MAPK and Akt activation was mediated through EGFR transactivation, which was diminished by the inhibitors of MMP‐2/9 and heparin‐binding EGF‐like factor (HB‐EGF). Finally, increased nuclear translocation of Akt and p42/p44 MAPK turns on early gene expression leading to cell proliferation. These results suggest that BK‐induced cell proliferation is mediated through c‐Src‐dependent transactivation of EGFR via MMP2/9‐dependent pro‐HB‐EGF shedding linking to activation of Akt and p42/p44 MAPK in corneal fibroblasts. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 1367–1381, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.