Progressive apoptotic cell death triggered by transient oxidative insult in H9c2 rat ventricular cells: a novel pattern of apoptosis and the mechanisms

Many pathophysiological processes are associated with oxidative stress and progressive cell death. Oxidative stress is an apoptotic inducer that is known to cause rapid cell death. Here we show that a brief oxidative insult (5-min exposure to 400 microM H(2)O(2)), although it did not kill H9c2 rat ventricular cells during the exposure, triggered an intracellular death cascade leading to delayed time-dependent cell death starting from 1 h after the insult had been withdrawn, and this post-H(2)O(2) cell death cumulated gradually, reaching a maximum level 8 h after H(2)O(2) withdrawal. By comparison, sustained exposure to H(2)O(2) caused complete cell death within a narrow time frame (2 h). The time-dependent post-H(2)O(2) cell death was typical of apoptosis, both morphologically (cell shrinkage and nuclear condensation) and biochemically (DNA fragmentation, extracellular exposure of phosphatidylserines, and caspase-3 activation). A dichlorofluorescein fluorescent signal showed a time-dependent endogenous increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which was almost abolished by inhibition of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Application of antioxidants (vitamin E or DTT) before H(2)O(2) addition or after H(2)O(2) withdrawal prevented the H(2)O(2)-triggered progressive ROS production and apoptosis. Sequential appearance of events associated with activation of the mitochondrial death pathway was found, including progressive dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, and late activation of caspase-3. In conclusion, transient oxidative stress triggers an intrinsic program leading to self-sustained apoptosis in H9c2 cells via cumulative production of mitochondrial ROS and subsequent activation of the mitochondrial death pathway. This pattern of apoptosis may contribute to the progressive and long-lasting cell loss in some degenerative diseases.

Opposite Cell Density-Dependence between Spontaneous and Oxidative Stress-Induced Apoptosis in Mouse Fibroblast L-Cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Spontaneous apoptosis in culture is cell density-dependent. Yet, little is known about the density-dependence of apoptosis induced by oxidative stress and the underlying signaling mechanisms.

METHODS

We compared apoptosis occurring spontaneously and induced by H2O2 in mouse fibroblast L-cells seeded at three different densities, using ELISA and TUNEL to measure DNA fragmentation, Western blot and pharmacological probes to evaluate the roles of signaling molecules.

RESULTS

The high-density (HD, 2.5 x 10(5)/cm2) culture had approximately 1.5- and approximately 3-times more spontaneous apoptosis than medium-density (MD, 5 x 10(4)/cm2) and low-density (LD, 1 x 10(4)/cm2) cultures, respectively. The opposite was seen with H2O2 (500 microM)-induced apoptosis: more apoptosis in LD than in MD and HD. Caspase inhibitor (Z-VAD-fmK) diminished the density-dependence of both spontaneous and H2O2-induced apoptosis. Activation of caspase 3 by H2O2 was more pronounced in LD than in MD and HD. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt increased spontaneous apoptosis more in LD and H2O2-induced apoptosis more in HD, diminishing the density-dependence of apoptosis. p38 MAPK inhibition reduced H2O2-induced apoptosis more in LD, diminishing the density-dependence of H2O2-induced apoptosis without altering that of spontaneous apoptosis. Akt level and activity and Hsp72 level were increased in HD, but decreased in MD and LD cells, by H2O2, and the active p38 MAPK was enhanced by H2O2 in all groups.

CONCLUSION

Spontaneous apoptosis is cell density-dependent whereas H2O2-induced apoptosis is reverse density-dependent. PI3K/Akt, p38 MAPK and Hsp72 pathways are critical for the opposite density-dependence of apoptosis.

Electrophysiological characterization of cardiac muscarinic acetylcholine receptors: different subtypes mediate different potassium currents

To characterize electrophysiologically the K+ currents mediated by various mAChR subtypes, we performed detailed whole-cell patch-clamp studies in canine atrial myocytes. I(KACh) was induced by 1 mM ACh (acetylcholine) or by arecaidine but-2-ynyl ester tosylate (100 nM, an M2 receptor selective agonist) and was blocked by methoctramine (20 nM, an M2 receptor selective antagonist). Tetramethylammonium (0.5 mM) activated a K+ conductance with delayed rectifying properties (I(KM3)) and the currents were highly sensitive to 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide (2 nM, an M3 receptor inhibitor). 4-aminopyridine (1 mM) induced a delayed rectifier-like current (I(K4AP)) which was selectively suppressed by tropicamide (200 nM, an M4 receptor blocker). The current waveforms, I-V relationships, steady-state voltage-dependence, kinetics and pharmacological properties of these three currents were different from one another and distinct from the classical delayed rectifier K+ currents (I(Kr) and I(Ks)). Both I(KACh) and I(K4AP) were sensitive to pertussis ntoxin, whereas I(KM3) was not. Isoproterenol (1 mM) markedly depressed I(KM3), but increased I(K4AP) and did not alter I(KACh). The effects of isoproterenol were reversed by propranolol (1 mM); and ACh completely suppressed I(KM3) and I(K4AP). The results suggest that the K+ currents mediated by different subtypes of mAChR represent different populations of K+ channels and that the cholinergic regulation of the heart's electrical function is a consequence of activating multiple mAChRs linked to different effector systems with potentially varying signal transduction.

Barium block of Kir2 and human cardiac inward rectifier currents: evidence for subunit-heteromeric contribution to native currents

BACKGROUND

Kir2 subunits are believed to underlie the cardiac inwardly rectifying current I(K1). The subunit composition of native I(K1) currents is uncertain, and it has been suggested that heteromultimer formation may play a role.

METHODS

We studied Ba(2+) block of homo- and heteromeric Kir2 channels in Xenopus oocytes and compared the properties observed to those of human cardiac I(K1) in cells isolated from myocardial biopsies of normal human hearts.

RESULTS

Homomeric expression of Kir2.1 and Kir2.3 produced currents with similar Ba(2+) sensitivities (e.g. IC(50) at -120 mV: 16.2+/-3.4, n=11 and 18.5+/-2.1, n=10, respectively), but these were less sensitive to Ba(2+) than native I(K1) (4.7+/-0.5 microM, n=10, P=0.001, P<0.001, respectively) and had different Ba(2+) blocking kinetics from cardiac I(K1). Kir2.2 sensitivity was similar to cardiac I(K1) (e.g., 2.8+/-0.4 microM, Kir2.2, n=9, vs. 4.7+/-0.5 microM for I(K1)), but the blocking kinetics of Kir2.2 were faster than those of I(K1). Currents resulting from co-expression of Kir2 subunits had similar Ba(2+) sensitivities and blocking kinetics among groups and were similar to I(K1) in both Ba(2+) sensitivity (e.g., IC(50) at -120 mV: 4.5+/-1.0, 2.5+/-0.5, and 2.3+/-0.4 microM for co-injected Kir2.1/2.2, n=6, Kir2.1/2.3, n=5, and Kir2.2/2.3, n=4, respectively) and blocking kinetics.

CONCLUSION

Co-injection of Kir2 subunits results in currents with Ba(2+) blocking properties different from homomeric Kir2 expression but similar to cardiac I(K1). These observations suggest that a substantial proportion of native I(K1) may result from heteromultimer formation among diverse Kir2 family subunits.

Tissue-specific expression of two human Ca(v)1.2 isoforms under the control of distinct 5' flanking regulatory elements

Transcriptional regulation may be important for L-type Ca(2+) channel alpha(1C) subunit (Ca(v)1.2) gene expression. In this study, we found two human Ca(v)1.2 isoforms, one strongly and selectively expressed in heart and the other with apparently ubiquitous expression. The promoter for the cardiac isoform has an 'initiator' sequence, and is active in neonatal cardiomyocytes but not in cardiac fibroblasts, H9C2 cells, human aorta-vascular smooth muscle and HEK293 cells. The promoter for the ubiquitously expressed isoform is of the 'housekeeping' type and is active in all cell types examined. These data indicate specific expression patterns of two human Ca(v)1.2 isoforms under the control of distinct 5' flanking regulatory sequences.

Ultrarapid delayed rectifier K(+) current in H9c2 rat ventricular cell line: biophysical property and molecular identity

Ultrarapid delayed rectifier K(+) currents (I(Kur)s) contribute importantly to cardiac repolarization. However, understanding of I(Kur)s has been hampered by the difficulty of dissecting them from overlapping currents in primary cells. We found with whole-cell patch-clamp recordings that H9c2 cells, a rat ventricular cell line, under 50% confluence (single myoblasts) express exclusively I(Kur)-like current which activates rapidly upon depolarization and partially inactivates during 150-ms pulses. The H9c2 I(Kur) activates within the same voltage range as native cardiac I(Kur)s, with a half-activation voltage of -13 mV. The H9c2 I(Kur) can be completely blocked by tetraethylammonium and 4-aminopyridine. Reversal potential (-79 mV) and envelope-of tail analyses indicate that the H9c2 I(Kur) is carried by a single population of K(+) channels. H9c2 I(Kur) was increased by beta-adrenoceptor-PKA and decreased by alpha(1)-adrenoceptor-PKC activation by isoproterenol and phenylephrine, respectively. Immunocytochemistry was performed with antibodies against 11 different K(+) channels. Positive immuno-stain-ing of the cytoplasmic membrane of H9c2 cells was seen only with Kv3.1b antibody. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides directed against Kv3.1b subunit sequence significantly inhibited the H9c2 I(Kur). We conclude that the H9c2 cells at the myoblast stage express mainly I(Kur) and Kv3.1b may be a molecular component of the H9c2 I(Kur), and H9c2 cells provide a suitable system for studying I(Kur).

Impairment of human ether-à-go-go-related gene (HERG) K+ channel function by hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Similar phenotypes but different mechanisms

Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia both can cause prolongation of the Q-T interval and ventricular arrhythmias. Here we studied modulation of human ether-à-go-go-related gene (HERG) K(+) channel, the major molecular component of delayed rectifier K(+) current responsible for cardiac repolarization, by glucose in HEK293 cells using whole-cell patch clamp techniques. We found that both hyperglycemia (extracellular glucose concentration [Glu](o) = 10 or 20 mm) and hypoglycemia ([Glu](o) = 2.5, 1, or 0 mm) impaired HERG function by reducing HERG current (I(HERG)) density, as compared with normoglycemia ([Glu](o) = 5 mm). Complete inhibition of glucose metabolism (glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation) by 2-deoxy-d-glucose mimicked the effects of hypoglycemia, but inhibition of glycolysis or oxidative phosphorylation alone did not cause I(HERG) depression. Depletion of intracellular ATP mimicked the effects of hypoglycemia, and replacement of ATP by GTP or non-hydrolysable ATP failed to prevent the effects. Inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation by NaCN or application of antioxidants vitamin E or superoxide dismutase mimetic (Mn(III) tetrakis(4-benzoic acid) porphyrin chloride) abrogated and incubation with xanthine/xanthine oxidase mimicked the effects of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia or xanthine/xanthine oxidase markedly increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species, as measured by 5-(and-6)-chloromethyl-2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (CM-H(2)DCFDA) fluorescence dye, and this increase was prevented by NaCN, vitamin E, or Mn(III) tetrakis(4-benzoic acid) porphyrin chloride. We conclude that ATP, derived from either glycolysis or oxidative phosphorylation, is critical for normal HERG function; depression of I(HERG) in hypoglycemia results from underproduction of ATP and in hyperglycemia from overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Impairment of HERG function might contribute to Q-T prolongation caused by hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

Normal function of HERG K+ channels expressed in HEK293 cells requires basal protein kinase B activity

The potential role of protein kinase B (PKB), a serine/threonine protein kinase, in regulating HERG (human ether-a-go-go related gene) K(+) channel function was investigated. Wortmannin (a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor) caused approximately 30% reduction of HERG current (I(HERG)) stably expressed in HEK293 cells. Transient transfection with the constitutively active PI3K in HERG-expressing HEK293 cells slightly increased ( approximately 7%) I(HERG) while a dominant negative PI3K significantly reduced I(HERG) ( approximately 25%) relative to results in vehicle-transfected cells. I(HERG) was approximately 35% greater in cells transfected with the constitutively activated PKB (caPKB), whereas it was approximately 47% smaller in cells transfected with dominant negative PKB (dnPKB). Basal activation of PKB was detected by immunocytochemistry. PKB activity was significantly enhanced in caPKB-transfected cells and nearly abolished in dnPKB-transfected cells. We conclude that normal HERG function in HEK293 cells requires basal activity of PKB. Our data represent the first evidence that PKB phosphorylation regulates K(+) channels.

Comparison of ion-channel subunit expression in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers and ventricular muscle

Although Purkinje fibers (PFs) play an important role in cardiac electrophysiology, almost nothing is known about the expression of ion-channel subunits in PFs. We applied competitive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry to compare the expression of ion-channel subunit mRNA and protein in canine PFs versus ventricular muscle (VM). For transient outward current-related subunits, Kv4.2 was not detected, and Kv1.4 expression was extremely low. Kv4.3 expression was of the same order for VM and PFs. The tetraethylammonium chloride-sensitive subunit Kv3.4 was expressed much more strongly in PFs than in VM, and Kv channel-interacting protein transcript expression was 25-fold stronger in VM than in PFs. For delayed rectifiers, ERG and KvLQT1 expression was lower in PFs at both mRNA and protein levels. Although minK transcripts were more numerous in PFs, minK protein was significantly more strongly expressed in VM. L-type Ca2+ current alpha-subunit (Ca(V)1.2) and Na+-Ca2+ exchanger proteins were more strongly expressed in VM than in PFs. For T-type Ca2+ current, Ca(V)3.1, Ca(V)3.2, and Ca(V)3.3 transcripts were all more strongly expressed in PFs. For the nonselective cation current, hyperpolarization-activated cation channel 1 (HCN1) expression was subquantifiable, HCN2 transcript expression was comparable in PFs and VM, and HCN4 mRNA expression was strong in PFs but below the detection threshold in VM. HCN2 and HCN4 protein expression was much stronger in PFs than in VM. We conclude that ion-channel subunit expression in PFs differs from that in VM in ways that are consistent with, and shed light on the molecular basis of, well-recognized fundamental PF ionic properties.

Kir2.4 and Kir2.1 K(+) channel subunits co-assemble: a potential new contributor to inward rectifier current heterogeneity

Heteromeric channel assembly is a potential source of physiological variability. The potential significance of Kir2 subunit heterotetramerization has been controversial, but recent findings suggest that heteromultimerization of Kir2.1-3 may be significant. This study was designed to investigate whether the recently described Kir2.4 subunit can form heterotetramers with the important subunit Kir2.1, and if so, to investigate whether the resulting heterotetrameric channels are functional. Co-expression of either dominant negative Kir2.1 or Kir2.4 subunits in Xenopus oocytes with either wild-type Kir2.1 or 2.4 strongly decreased resulting current amplitude. To examine physical association between Kir2.1 and Kir2.4, Cos-7 cells were co-transfected with a His(6)-tagged Kir2.1 subunit (Kir2.1-His(6)) and a FLAG-tagged Kir2.4 subunit (Kir2.4-FLAG). After pulldown with a His(6)-binding resin, Kir2.4-FLAG could be detected in the eluted cell lysate by Western blotting, indicating co-assembly of Kir2.1-His(6) and Kir2.4-FLAG. Expression of a tandem construct containing covalently linked Kir2.1 and 2.4 subunits led to robust current expression. Kir2.1-Kir2.4 tandem subunit expression, as well as co-injection of Kir2.1 and Kir2.4 cRNA into Xenopus oocytes, produced currents with barium sensitivity greater than that of Kir2.1 or Kir2.4 subunit expression alone. These results show that Kir2.4 subunits can co-assemble with Kir2.1 subunits, and that co-assembled channels are functional, with properties different from those of Kir2.4 or Kir2.1 alone. Since Kir2.1 and Kir2.4 mRNAs have been shown to co-localize in the CNS, Kir2.1 and Kir2.4 heteromultimers might play a role in the heterogeneity of native inward rectifier currents.

HERG K+ channel, a regulator of tumor cell apoptosis and proliferation

The human ether-a-go-go related gene (HERG) encodes K+ channel identified as a molecular target for mutations underlying some forms of the long Q-T syndrome, a lethal cardiac arrhythmia. Recent studies revealed that HERG is abundantly expressed in a variety of tumor cells. Yet, the role of HERG in tumor cells had remained unclear. Here, we show that HERG conductance markedly promotes H2O2-induced apoptosis of various tumor cells, whereas HERG expression facilitates the tumor cell proliferation caused by tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand (TNF-alpha). Immunostaining and immunocoprecipitation reveal coexpression of HERG and TNF receptor 1 on the cytoplasmic membrane, which is correlated with greater activities of nuclear transcription factor, nuclear factor-kappaB, in HERG-expressing tumor cells. Our data suggest that HERG K+ channel is a regulator of tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis and provide a potential new target for cancer therapy.

Cholinergic atrial fibrillation in a computer model of a two-dimensional sheet of canine atrial cells with realistic ionic properties

Classical concepts of atrial fibrillation (AF) have been rooted in Moe's multiple-wavelet hypothesis and simple cellular-automaton computer model. Recent experimental work has raised questions about the multiple-wavelet mechanism, suggesting a discrete "driver region" underlying AF. We reexplored the theoretical basis for AF with a 2-dimensional computer model of a 5x10-cm sheet of atrial cells with realistic ionic and coupling properties. Vagal actions were formulated based on patch-clamp studies of acetylcholine (ACh) effects. In control, a single extrastimulus resulted in a highly meandering unstable spiral wave. Simulated electrograms showed fibrillatory activity, with a dominant frequency (DF, 6.5 Hz) that correlated with the mean rate. Uniform ACh reduced core meander of the spiral wave by approximately 70% (as measured by the standard deviation of spiral-wave tip position) and accelerated the DF to 17.0 Hz. Simulated vagally induced refractoriness heterogeneity caused wavefront breakup as accelerated reentrant activity in regions of short refractoriness impinged on regions unable to respond in a 1:1 fashion because of longer refractoriness. In 7 simulations spanning the range of conditions giving sustained AF, 5 were maintained by single dominant spiral waves. On average, 3.0+/-1.3 wavelets were present (range, 1 to 7). Most wavelets were short-lived and did not contribute to AF maintenance. In contrast to predictions of the multiple-wavelet hypothesis, but in agreement with recent experimental evidence, our model indicates that AF can result from relatively stable primary spiral-wave generators and is significantly organized. Our results suggest that vagal AF may arise from ACh-induced stabilization of the primary spiral-wave generator and disorganization of the heterogeneous tissue response. The full text of this article is available at http://www.circresaha.org.

Effects of sustained beta-adrenergic stimulation on ionic currents of cultured adult guinea pig cardiomyocytes

Short-term stimulation of beta-receptors is known to affect cardiac ion channels; however, the impact of longer-term stimulation on intrinsic channel function is poorly understood. To evaluate this, cultured guinea pig ventricular myocytes were exposed to isoproterenol (10 nM), vehicle, or isoproterenol plus propranolol (1 microM) for 48 h. Sustained exposure to isoproterenol decreased the density of the inward rectifier (I(K1)), slow delayed rectifier (I(Ks)), and L-type Ca2+ (I(Ca L)) currents, effects that were fully prevented by propranolol. Changes in K+ currents were prevented by the beta1-selective antagonist CGP-20712A, unaffected by the beta2-antagonist ICI-118,551, and mimicked by the membrane-permeable cAMP analog 8-bromo-cAMP. Isoproterenol did not alter the current-voltage relationship of the K+ currents but increased the density of T-type Ca2+ current (I(Ca T)) and thereby increased the proportion of the total Ca2+ current at more negative potentials. We conclude that sustained exposure to isoproterenol reduces I(K1), I(Ks), and I(Ca L) density and increases the density of I(Ca T). The direct ionic current remodeling effects of sustained beta-adrenoceptor stimulation resemble changes reported with heart failure and may be important in arrhythmogenic ionic remodeling.

Phospholipid metabolite 1-palmitoyl-lysophosphatidylcholine enhances human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG) K(+) channel function

BACKGROUND

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), a naturally occurring phospholipid metabolite, accumulates in the ischemic heart and causes extracellular K(+) accumulation and action potential shortening. LPC has been incriminated as a biochemical trigger of lethal cardiac arrhythmias, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied the effect of 1-palmitoyl-LPC (Pal-LPC) on currents resulting from human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG) expression in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques. Bath application of Pal-LPC consistently and reversibly increased HERG current (I(HERG)). The effects of Pal-LPC were apparent as early as 3 minutes after application of the drug, reached maximum within 10 minutes, and were reversible on washout. Pal-LPC increased I(HERG) at voltages between -20 and +30 mV, with greater effects at stronger depolarization. However, Pal-LPC did not affect the voltage-dependence of I(HERG) activation. In contrast, Pal-LPC significantly shifted the inactivation curve toward more positive potentials, causing a mean 20.0+/-2.2 mV shift in half-inactivation voltage relative to control.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that apart from being a well-recognized target for drug inhibition, I(HERG) can also be enhanced by natural substances. An increase in I(HERG) by Pal-LPC may contribute to K(+) loss, abnormal electrophysiology, and arrhythmia occurrence in the ischemic heart.

Effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition on the development of the atrial fibrillation substrate in dogs with ventricular tachypacing-induced congestive heart failure

BACKGROUND

Atrial structural remodeling creates a substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF), but the underlying signal transduction mechanisms are unknown. This study assessed the effects of ACE inhibition on arrhythmogenic atrial remodeling and associated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) changes in a dog model of congestive heart failure (CHF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Dogs were subjected to various durations of ventricular tachypacing (VTP, 220 to 240 bpm) in the presence or absence of oral enalapril 2 mg. kg(-1). d(-1). VTP for 5 weeks induced CHF, local atrial conduction slowing, and interstitial fibrosis and prolonged atrial burst pacing-induced AF. Atrial angiotensin II concentrations and MAPK expression were increased by tachypacing, with substantial changes in phosphorylated forms of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38-kinase. Enalapril significantly reduced tachypacing-induced changes in atrial angiotensin II concentrations and ERK expression. Enalapril also attenuated the effects of CHF on atrial conduction (conduction heterogeneity index reduced from 3.1+/-0.4 to 1.9+/-0.2 ms/mm, P<0.05), atrial fibrosis (from 11.9+/-1.1% to 7.5+/-0.4%, P<0.01), and mean AF duration (from 651+/-164 to 218+/-75 seconds, P<0.05). Vasodilator therapy of a separate group of VTP dogs with hydralazine and isosorbide mononitrate did not alter CHF-induced fibrosis or AF promotion.

CONCLUSIONS

CHF-induced increases in angiotensin II content and MAPK activation contribute to arrhythmogenic atrial structural remodeling. ACE inhibition interferes with signal transduction leading to the AF substrate in CHF and may represent a useful new component to AF therapy.

Different subtypes of alpha1-adrenoceptor modulate different K+ currents via different signaling pathways in canine ventricular myocytes

Multiple subtypes (alpha1A, alpha1B, and alpha1D) of alpha1-adrenoreceptors (alpha1ARs) co-exist in the heart and mediate a variety of cellular functions. We studied alphaAR modulation of inward rectifier (IK1) and transient outward (Ito) K(+) currents in canine ventricular myocytes. Phenylephrine at 10 microM depressed only Ito without affecting IK1 and at 100 microM inhibited both Ito and IK1. The effect of phenylephrine on Ito was abolished by (+)niguldipine (10 nm) to inhibit alpha1AARs but not by chloroethyclonidine (10 microM) to inactivate alpha1BARs nor by BMY-7378 to antagonize alpha1DARs. In contrast, phenylephrine inhibition of IK1 was reversed only by BMY-7378 (1 nm). PDD (100 nm, phorbol ester activator of protein kinase C (PKC)) simulates and bisindolylmaleimide (50 nm, PKC inhibitor) weakens phenylephrine modulation of Ito but not IK1. Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) inhibitor KN-93 and inhibitor peptides abolished the effects of phenylephrine on IK1. Enhancement of PKC or CaMKII activities was seen in alpha1aAR- or alpha1dAR-transfected HEK293 cells and in myocytes pretreated with 10 or 100 microM phenylephrine, respectively. Our data suggest that different subtypes of alpha1ARs selectively modulate different cardiac K(+) currents via different signal transduction mechanisms; alpha1AARs mediate Ito regulation via PKC, and alpha1DARs mediate IK1 regulation via CaMKII.

Oxidative preconditioning and apoptosis in L-cells. Roles of protein kinase B and mitogen-activated protein kinases

Oxidative stress can cause significant cell death by apoptosis. We performed studies in L-cells to explore whether prior exposure to oxidative stress ("oxidative preconditioning") can protect the cell against the apoptotic consequences of subsequent oxidative insults and to establish the mediators in the preconditioning signaling cascade. Cells were preconditioned with three 5-min exposures to H(2)O(2), followed by 10-h recovery and subsequent exposure to 600 microm H(2)O(2) for 10 h. A single 10-h exposure to H(2)O(2) induced substantial apoptotic cell death (approximately 90%), as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, TUNEL (terminal deoxyribonucleotide transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling), and Annexin V methods, but apoptosis was largely prevented in preconditioned cells. The degree of cytoprotection depended on the strength of preconditioning or H(2)O(2) concentration (20 approximately 600 microm). Transient increases in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), p38, and JNK/SAPK activities and sustained protein kinase B (Akt) activation, accompanied by drastically reduced caspase 3 activity, were seen after preconditioning. The expression levels of these kinases were unaltered. Inhibitors of p38 (SB203580) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K, LY294002) pathways abolished the protection provided by preconditioning. We conclude that oxidative preconditioning protects cells against apoptosis and that this effect involves MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways. This system may be important in regulating apoptotic cell death in development and disease states.

Expression of multiple subtypes of muscarinic receptors and cellular distribution in the human heart

Five isoforms of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) have been identified by molecular cloning and designated m(1)-m(5), of which four correspond to the functional subtypes M(1), M(2), M(3), and M(4) in primary tissues. The presence of M(5) receptors in tissues remains uncertain. The present study was designed to explore the diversity and cellular distribution of various mAChR subtypes in human hearts. Competition binding of [N-methyl-(3)H]-scopolamine methyl chloride with various mAChR antagonists yielded data consistent with the presence of multiple subtypes (M(1)/M(2)/M(3)/M(5)) of mAChRs in both human atrial (HA) and ventricular (HV) tissues. Expression of mRNAs encoding all five subtypes was readily detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in both HA and HV samples. Immunoblotting with subtype-specific antibodies confirmed the presence of M(1), M(2), M(3), and M(5), but not M(4), proteins in membrane preparations from both HA and HV. The protein levels of M(1) and M(2) were comparable between HA and HV. Although the density of M(3) appeared approximately 10-fold higher in HV than HA, that of M(5) was approximately 5 times lower in HV than in HA. Positive immunostaining of single ventricular myocytes by M(1), M(2), M(3), and M(5) antibodies, respectively, was consistently detected. Under confocal microscopy, M(5) showed characteristic localization to the intercalated discs, whereas other subtypes were more evenly distributed throughout the surface membrane. Our results provide the first molecular evidence for the presence of multiple subtypes of mAChR, including endogenous M(5) receptors, in human hearts and suggest that different subtypes have different tissue distributions and cellular localization.

Slow delayed rectifier current and repolarization in canine cardiac Purkinje cells

Although cardiac Purkinje cells (PCs) are believed to be the source of early afterdepolarizations generating ventricular tachyarrhythmias in long Q-T syndromes (LQTS), the ionic determinants of PC repolarization are incompletely known. To evaluate the role of the slow delayed rectifier current (I(Ks)) in PC repolarization, we studied PCs from canine ventricular false tendons with whole cell patch clamp (37 degrees C). Typical I(Ks) voltage- and time-dependent properties were noted. Isoproterenol enhanced I(Ks) in a concentration-dependent fashion (EC(50) approximately 30 nM), negatively shifted I(Ks) activation voltage dependence, and accelerated I(Ks) activation. Block of I(Ks) with 293B did not alter PC action potential duration (APD) in the absence of isoproterenol; however, in the presence of isoproterenol, 293B significantly prolonged APD. We conclude that, without beta-adrenergic stimulation, I(Ks) contributes little to PC repolarization; however, beta-adrenergic stimulation increases the contribution of I(Ks) by increasing current amplitude, accelerating I(Ks) activation, and shifting activation voltage toward the PC plateau voltage range. I(Ks) may therefore provide an important "braking" function to limit PC APD prolongation in the presence of beta-adrenergic stimulation.

Molecular evidence for a role of Shaw (Kv3) potassium channel subunits in potassium currents of dog atrium

We previously described an ultrarapid delayed rectifier current in dog atrial myocytes (IKur,d) with properties resembling currents reported for Kv3.1 channels in neural tissue; however, there was no direct molecular evidence for Shaw subfamily (Kv3) subunit expression in the heart. To identify the molecular basis of IKur,d, we cloned a full-length cDNA (dKv3.1) from canine atrium with homology-based reverse transcription (RT)- polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cloning techniques. A 1755 bp full-length cDNA (dKv3.1) was obtained, with 94.2 % homology to rat brain Kv3.1 (rbKv3.1). The deduced amino acid sequence had 99.3 % homology with rbKv3.1. Heterologous expression of dKv3.1 in Xenopus oocytes produced currents with activation voltage dependence, rectification, and activation and deactivation kinetics that strongly resemble native IKur,d. Like IKur,d, dKv3.1 was found to be highly sensitive to extracellular 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) and tetraethylammonium (TEA). RNase protection assays, Western blots and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated the presence of dKv3.1 transcripts and proteins in dog atrial preparations and isolated canine atrial myocytes. Protein corresponding to the Kv1.5 subunit, which can also carry ultrarapid delayed rectifier current, was absent. Unlike neural tissues, which express two splice variants (Kv3.1a and Kv3.1b), canine atrium showed only Kv3.1b transcripts. Whole-cell patch-clamp studies showed that IKur,d is absent in canine ventricular myocytes, and immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis demonstrated the absence of dKv3.1 protein in canine ventricle. We conclude that the Shaw-type channel dKv3.1 is present in dog atrium, but not ventricle, and is the likely molecular basis of canine atrial IKur,d.

Nicotine is a potent blocker of the cardiac A-type K(+) channels. Effects on cloned Kv4.3 channels and native transient outward current

BACKGROUND

Nicotine is a main constituent of cigarette smoke and smokeless tobacco, known to increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. This study aimed at establishing ionic mechanisms underlying potential electrophysiological effects of nicotine.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Effects of nicotine on Kv4.3 and Kv4.2 channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes were studied at the whole-cell and single-channel levels. The effects of nicotine on the transient outward K(+) current (I:(to)) were studied by use of whole-cell patch-clamp techniques in canine ventricular myocytes. Nicotine potently inhibited Kv4 current. The concentration for half-maximal inhibition (IC(50)) was 40+/-4 nmol/L, and the current was abolished by 100 micromol/L nicotine. The IC(50) for block of native I:(to) was 270+/-43 nmol/L. The steady-state activation properties of Kv4.3 and I:(to) were unaltered by nicotine, whereas positive shifts of the inactivation curves were observed. Of the total inhibition of Kv4.3 and I:(to) by nicotine, 40% was due to tonic block and 60% was attributable to use-dependent block. Activation, inactivation, and reactivation kinetics were not significantly changed by nicotine. Nicotine reduced single-channel conductance, open probability, and open time but increased the closed time of Kv4.3. The effects of nicotine were not altered by antagonists to various neurotransmitter receptors, indicating direct effects on I:(to) channels.

CONCLUSIONS

Nicotine is a potent inhibitor of cardiac A-type K(+) channels, with blockade probably due to block of closed and open channels. This action may contribute to the ability of nicotine to affect cardiac electrophysiology and induce arrhythmias.

A comparison of transient outward currents in canine cardiac Purkinje cells and ventricular myocytes

Although abnormalities in Purkinje cell (PC) repolarization are important causes of cardiac arrhythmias, the detailed properties of repolarizing currents in PCs are incompletely understood. We compared transient outward K(+) current (I(to)) in single PCs from canine false tendons with midmyocardial ventricular myocytes (VMs). I(to) reactivation was biexponential, with a similar rapid-phase time constant (30 +/- 5 and 35 +/- 4 ms for VM and PC, respectively) but a large, slow component in PCs with a much greater time constant than VM (1,427 +/- 70 vs. 181 +/- 24 ms, P < 0.001). Tetraethylammonium had no effect on VM I(to) but reversibly inhibited PC I(to) (IC(50) = 2.4 +/- 0.4 mM). PC I(to) was also more sensitive to 4-aminopyridine (IC(50) = 50 +/- 7 vs. 526 +/- 49 microM in VM, P < 0.0001). H(2)O(2) slowed I(to) inactivation in PCs but did not affect VM I(to). We conclude that PC I(to) shows significant differences from VM I(to), with some features, such as tetraethylammonium sensitivity, that have been reported in neither cardiac I(to) of atrial or ventricular myocytes nor cloned K(+) channel subunits (Kv1.4, Kv4.2, or Kv4.3) known to participate in cardiac I(to).

Effects of experimental heart failure on atrial cellular and ionic electrophysiology

BACKGROUND

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is frequently associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), but little is known about the effects of CHF on atrial cellular electrophysiology.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied action potential (AP) properties and ionic currents in atrial myocytes from dogs with CHF induced by ventricular pacing at 220 to 240 bpm for 5 weeks. Atrial myocytes from CHF dogs were hypertrophied (mean+/-SEM capacitance, 89+/-2 pF versus 71+/-2 pF in control, n=160 cells per group, P<0.001). CHF significantly reduced the density of L-type Ca(2+) current (I(Ca)) by approximately 30%, of transient outward K(+) current (I(to)) by approximately 50%, and of slow delayed rectifier current (I(Ks)) by approximately 30% without altering their voltage dependencies or kinetics. The inward rectifier, ultrarapid and rapid delayed rectifier, and T-type Ca(2+) currents were not altered by CHF. CHF increased transient inward Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX) current by approximately 45%. The AP duration of atrial myocytes was not altered by CHF at slow rates but was increased at faster rates, paralleling in vivo refractory changes. CHF created a substrate for AF, prolonging mean AF duration from 8+/-4 to 535+/-82 seconds (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Experimental CHF selectively decreases atrial I(to), I(Ca), and I(Ks), increases NCX current, and leaves other currents unchanged. The cellular electrophysiological remodeling caused by CHF is quite distinct from that caused by atrial tachycardia, highlighting important differences in the cellular milieu characterizing different clinically relevant AF substrates.

Cardiac ultrarapid delayed rectifiers: a novel potassium current family o f functional similarity and molecular diversity

Classical cardiac delayed rectifier currents activate at least two orders of magnitude slower than delayed rectifier currents in nerve and skeletal muscle tissue. It has recently become evident that many cardiac tissues express delayed rectifier currents with kinetics similar to those of nerve and muscle. These currents have been designated I(Kur) (for 'ultrarapid' delayed rectifier), in contrast to the classical cardiac rapid (I(Kr)) and slow (I(Ks)) delayed rectifier components. Although the kinetics of I(Kur) in different species and tissues are similar, their pharmacological properties vary greatly. It now appears that the differences among various I(Kur)s are due to differences in the molecular basis. A variety of Shaker-related clones (Kv1.2, 1.5, 2.1 and 3.1) that form I(Kur) channels upon heterologous expression have been identified with specific I(Kur)s (e.g. Kv1.2, rat atrium; Kv1.5, mouse ventricle and human atrium; Kv3.1, dog atrium). The present article reviews the distribution, biophysical and pharmacological properties, molecular basis and functional role of I(Kur), as well as the potential value of I(Kur) as a target for new antiarrhythmic drug development.