Exogenous NAD⁺ Stimulates MUC2 Expression in LS 174T Goblet Cells via the PLC-Delta/PTGES/PKC-Delta/ERK/CREB Signaling Pathway

Background: MUC2, a major component of the mucus layer in the intestine, is associated with antimicrobial activity and gut immune system function. Currently, mucin is mainly known for its critical function in defense against toxic molecules and pathogens. In this study, we investigated the stimulatory effects of exogenous nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) on the expression of MUC2 in LS 174T goblet cells. Methods: Genes related to MUC2 synthesis were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). To analyze the gene expression profiles of NAD⁺-treated LS 174T goblet cells, RNA sequencing was performed. MUC2 expression in the cells and secreted MUC2 were measured by immunocytochemistry (ICC) and ELISA, respectively. Results: NAD⁺ significantly stimulated MUC2 expression at mRNA and protein levels and increased the secretion of MUC2. Through RNA sequencing, we found that the expression of genes involved in arachidonic acid metabolism increased in NAD⁺-treated cells compared with the negative control cells. NAD⁺ treatment increased phospholipase C (PLC)-δ and prostaglandin E synthase (PTGES) expression, which was inhibited by the appropriate inhibitors. Among the protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes, PKC-δ was involved in the increase in MUC2 expression. In addition, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and cyclic AMP (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB) transcript levels were higher in NAD⁺-treated cells than in the negative control cells, and the enhanced levels of phosphorylated CREB augmented MUC2 expression. Conclusions: Exogenous NAD⁺ increases MUC2 expression by stimulating the PLC-δ/PTGES/PKC-δ/ERK/CREB signaling pathway.