SOCIC: the store-operated calcium influx complex

Exercise and muscular dystrophy: implications and analysis of effects on musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems

The muscular dystrophies are a heterogeneous collection of progressive, inherited diseases of muscle weakness and degeneration. Although these diseases can vary widely in their etiology and presentation, nearly all muscular dystrophies cause exercise intolerance to some degree. Here, we focus on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the most common form of muscular dystrophy, as a paradigm for the effects of muscle disease on exercise capacity. First described in the mid-1800s, DMD is a rapidly progressive and lethal muscular dystrophy caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Dystrophin is a membrane-associated cytoskeletal protein, the loss of which causes numerous cellular defects including mechanical instability of the sarcolemma, increased influx of extracellular calcium, and cell signaling defects. Here, we discuss the physiological basis for exercise intolerance in DMD, focusing on the molecular and cellular defects caused by loss of dystrophin and how these manifest as organ-level dysfunction and reduced exercise capacity. The main focus of this article is the defects present in dystrophin-deficient striated muscle. However, discussion regarding the effects of dystrophin loss on other tissues, including vascular smooth muscle is also included. Collectively, the goal of this article is to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the mechanistic basis for exercise intolerance in DMD, which may serve as an archetype for other muscular dystrophies and diseases of muscle wasting.

STIM1/Orai1-mediated SOCE: current perspectives and potential roles in cardiac function and pathology

Store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) is critical for Ca²⁺ signaling in nonexcitable cells; however, its role in the regulation of cardiomyocyte Ca²⁺ homeostasis has only recently been investigated. The increased understanding of the role of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) in regulating SOCE combined with recent studies demonstrating the presence of STIM1 in cardiomyocytes provides support that this pathway co-exists in the heart with the more widely recognized Ca²⁺ handling pathways associated with excitation-contraction coupling. There is now substantial evidence that STIM1-mediated SOCE plays a key role in mediating cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, both in vitro and in vivo, and there is growing support for the contribution of SOCE to Ca²⁺ overload associated with ischemia/reperfusion injury. Here, we provide an overview of our current understanding of the molecular regulation of SOCE and discuss the evidence supporting the role of STIM1/Orai1-mediated SOCE in regulating cardiomyocyte function.

Urotensin-II promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation through store-operated calcium entry and EGFR transactivation

AIMS

Urotensin-II (UII) is a vasoactive peptide that promotes vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, restenosis, and vascular remodelling. This study aimed to determine the role of calcium (Ca(2+))-dependent signalling and alternative signalling pathways in UII-evoked VSMCs proliferation focusing on store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) and epithelium growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We used primary cultures of VSMCs isolated from Wistar rat aorta to investigate the effects of UII on intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization, and proliferation determined by the 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assay. We found that UII enhanced intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) which was significantly reduced by classical SOCE inhibitors and by knockdown of essential components of the SOCE such as stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), Orai1, or TRPC1. Moreover, UII activated a Gd(3+)-sensitive current with similar features of the Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) current (ICRAC). Additionally, UII stimulated VSMCs proliferation and Ca(2+)/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) activation through the SOCE pathway that involved STIM1, Orai1, and TRPC1. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that UII promoted the association between Orai1 and STIM1, and between Orai1 and TRPC1. Moreover, we determined that EGFR transactivation, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent kinase (CaMK) signalling pathways were involved in both UII-mediated Ca(2+) influx, CREB activation and VSMCs proliferation.

CONCLUSION

Our data show for the first time that UII-induced VSMCs proliferation and CREB activation requires a complex signalling pathway that involves on the one hand SOCE mediated by STIM1, Orai1, and TRPC1, and on the other hand EGFR, ERK, and CaMK activation.

A relay mechanism between EB1 and APC facilitate STIM1 puncta assembly at endoplasmic reticulum-plasma membrane junctions

The assembly of STIM1 protein puncta near endoplasmic reticulum-plasma membrane (ER-PM) junctions is required for optimal activation of store-operated channels (SOC). The mechanisms controlling the translocation of STIM1 puncta to ER-PM junctions remain largely unknown. In the present study, we have explored the role of the microtubule binding protein adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), on STIM1 puncta and store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). APC-depleted cells showed reduced STIM1 puncta near ER-PM junctions, instead puncta is found at the ER surrounding the cell nucleus. Reduced STIM1 puncta near ER-PM junctions in APC-depleted cells correlates with a strong inhibition of SOCE and diminished Orai whole-cell currents. Immunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy co-localization studies indicate that, upon depletion of the ER, STIM1 dissociates from EB1 and associates to APC. Deletion analysis identified an APC-binding domain in the carboxyl terminus of STIM1 (STIM1 650-685). These results together position APC as an important element in facilitating the translocation of STIM1 puncta near ER-PM junctions, which in turn is required for efficient SOCE and Orai activation upon depletion of the ER.

Endothelial calcium dynamics, connexin channels and blood-brain barrier function

Situated between the circulation and the brain, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the brain from circulating toxins while securing a specialized environment for neuro-glial signaling. BBB capillary endothelial cells exhibit low transcytotic activity and a tight, junctional network that, aided by the cytoskeleton, restricts paracellular permeability. The latter is subject of extensive research as it relates to neuropathology, edema and inflammation. A key determinant in regulating paracellular permeability is the endothelial cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) that affects junctional and cytoskeletal proteins. Ca(2+) signals are not one-time events restricted to a single cell but often appear as oscillatory [Ca(2+)]i changes that may propagate between cells as intercellular Ca(2+) waves. The effect of Ca(2+) oscillations/waves on BBB function is largely unknown and we here review current evidence on how [Ca(2+)]i dynamics influence BBB permeability.

The coupling of plasma membrane calcium entry to calcium uptake by endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria

Cross-talk between organelles and plasma membrane Ca(2+) channels is essential for modulation of the cytosolic Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]C) signals, but such modulation may differ among cells. In chromaffin cells Ca(2+) entry through voltage-operated channels induces calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that amplifies the signal. [Ca(2+)]C microdomains as high as 20-50 μm are sensed by subplasmalemmal mitochondria, which accumulate large amounts of Ca(2+) through the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter (MCU). Mitochondria confine the high-Ca(2+) microdomains (HCMDs) to beneath the plasma membrane, where exocytosis of secretory vesicles happens. Cell core [Ca(2+)]C is much smaller (1-2 μm). By acting as a Ca(2+) sink, mitochondria stabilise the HCMD in space and time. In non-excitable HEK293 cells, activation of store-operated Ca(2+) entry, triggered by ER Ca(2+) emptying, also generated subplasmalemmal HCMDs, but, in this case, most of the Ca(2+) was taken up by the ER rather than by mitochondria. The smaller size of the [Ca(2+)]C peak in this case (about 2 μm) may contribute to this outcome, as the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase has much higher Ca(2+) affinity than MCU. It is also possible that the relative positioning of organelles, channels and effectors, as well as cytoskeleton and accessory proteins plays an important role.

Cytoskeletal and scaffolding proteins as structural and functional determinants of TRP channels

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are six transmembrane-spanning proteins, with variable selectivity for cations, that play a relevant role in intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. There is a large body of evidence that shows association of TRP channels with the actin cytoskeleton or even the microtubules and demonstrating the functional importance of this interaction for TRP channel function. Conversely, cation currents through TRP channels have also been found to modulate cytoskeleton rearrangements. The interplay between TRP channels and the cytoskeleton has been demonstrated to be essential for full activation of a variety of cellular functions. Furthermore, TRP channels have been reported to take part of macromolecular complexes including different signal transduction proteins. Scaffolding proteins play a relevant role in the association of TRP proteins with other signaling molecules into specific microdomains. Especially relevant are the roles of the Homer family members for the regulation of TRPC channel gating in mammals and INAD in the modulation of Drosophila TRP channels. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Reciprocal influences between cell cytoskeleton and membrane channels, receptors and transporters. Guest Editor: Jean Claude Hervé.

Ca2+-imaging techniques to analyze Ca2+ signaling in cells and to monitor neuronal activity in the retina

Ca(2+) is an important regulator of many cell functions including proliferation, apoptosis, movements, secretion, contraction, excitation, and differentiation. The regulation of these different cell functions is encoded by the specific temporal and spatial distribution of Ca(2+) signals. In degenerative diseases mutations can lead to changes in cell functions in the worst case to apoptosis. Thus analysis of signals arising as changes in intracellular free Ca(2+) represent an important step towards the understanding of mutation-dependent or environmental impact into cell function. The classic approach to study changes in intracellular free Ca(2+) is the measurement of intracellular Ca(2+) by using Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescence dyes in conjunction with fluorescence microscopy as a method called Ca(2+) imaging. In this chapter the basic method and a short theoretical background will be provided to perform Ca(2+)-imaging experiments. As a model cultured retinal pigment epithelial cells will be used. The basic steps of the method are the loading of the cells with the fluorescence dye by incubation with a membrane permeable ester of the dye. The next step would be the application of an agonist which can be further analyzed by blockers of enzymes or by manipulating the different Ca(2+)-storing compartments which contribute to changes in intracellular free Ca(2+). At the end of an experiment an on-cell type of calibration will be performed to calculate the underlying concentration of intracellular free Ca(2+). Furthermore, the successful calibration of an experiment can be used as a measure of a reliable experiment. In addition to that, three examples for basic experiments will be given which can lead to a first insight into the mechanism underlying changes in cytosolic free Ca(2+)as a second messenger.

Store-operated Ca2+ entry in hippocampal neurons: Regulation by protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B

Store operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) replenishes intracellular Ca(2+) stores and activates a number of intracellular signalling pathways. Whilst several molecular components forming store operated Ca(2+) channels (SOCC) have been identified, their modulation in neurons remains poorly understood. Here, we extend on our previous findings and show that neuronal SOCE is modulated by tyrosine phosphorylation. Cyclopiazonic acid induced SOCE was characterised in hippocampal cultures derived from forebrain specific protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B knockout (PTP1B KO) mice and wild type (WT) litter mates using Fura-2 Ca(2+) imaging. PTP1B KO cultures expressed elevated SOCE relative to WT cultures without changes in cytoplasmic Ca(2+) homeostasis or depolarisation-induced Ca(2+) influx. WT and PTP1B KO cultures displayed similar pharmacological sensitivities towards the SOCE inhibitors gadolinium and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, as well as the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Ag126 indicating an augmentation of native SOCCs by PTP1B. Following store depletion WT culture homogenates showed heightened phospho-tyrosine levels, an increase in Src tyrosine kinase activation and two minor PTP1B species. These data suggest tyrosine phosphorylation gating SOCE, and implicate PTP1B as a key regulatory enzyme. The involvement of PTP1B in SOCE and its relation to SOCC components and mechanism of regulation are discussed.

TRPC1 and Orai1 interact with STIM1 and mediate capacitative Ca2+ entry caused by acute hypoxia in mouse pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

Previous studies in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) showed that acute hypoxia activates capacitative Ca2+ entry (CCE) but the molecular candidate(s) mediating CCE caused by acute hypoxia remain unclear. The present study aimed to determine if transient receptor potential canonical 1 (TRPC1) and Orai1 interact with stromal interacting molecule 1 (STIM1) and mediate CCE caused by acute hypoxia in mouse PASMCs. In primary cultured PASMCs loaded with fura-2, acute hypoxia caused a transient followed by a sustained rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). The transient but not sustained rise in [Ca2+]i was partially inhibited by nifedipine. Acute hypoxia also increased the rate of Mn2+ quench of fura-2 fluorescence that was inhibited by SKF 96365, Ni2+, La3+, and Gd3+, exhibiting pharmacological properties characteristic of CCE. The nifedipine-insensitive rise in [Ca2+]i and the increase in Mn2+ quench rate were both inhibited in cells treated with TRPC1 antibody or TRPC1 small interfering (si)RNA, in STIM1 siRNA-transfected cells and in Orai1 siRNA-transfected cells. Moreover, overexpression of STIM1 resulted in a marked increase in [Ca2+]i and Mn2+ quench rate caused by acute hypoxia, and they were reduced in cells treated with TRPC1 antibody and in cells transfected with Orai1 siRNA. Furthermore, TRPC1 and Orai1 coimmunoprecipitated with STIM1 and the precipitation levels of TRPC1 and Orai1 were increased in cells exposed to acute hypoxia. Immunostaining showed colocalizations of TRPC1-STIM1 and Orai1-STIM1, and the colocalizations of these proteins were more apparent in acute hypoxia. These data provide direct evidence that TRPC1 and Orai1 channels mediate CCE through activation of STIM1 in acute hypoxic mouse PASMCs.

Modification of STIM1 by O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) attenuates store-operated calcium entry in neonatal cardiomyocytes

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) is a major Ca(2+) signaling pathway responsible for regulating numerous transcriptional events. In cardiomyocytes SOCE has been shown to play an important role in regulating hypertrophic signaling pathways, including nuclear translocation of NFAT. Acute activation of pathways leading to O-GlcNAc synthesis have been shown to impair SOCE-mediated transcription and in diabetes, where O-GlcNAc levels are chronically elevated, cardiac hypertrophic signaling is also impaired. Therefore the goal of this study was to determine whether changes in cardiomyocyte O-GlcNAc levels impaired the function of STIM1, a widely recognized mediator of SOCE. We demonstrated that acute activation of SOCE in neonatal cardiomyocytes resulted in STIM1 puncta formation, which was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by increasing O-GlcNAc synthesis with glucosamine or inhibiting O-GlcNAcase with thiamet-G. Glucosamine and thiamet-G also inhibited SOCE and were associated with increased O-GlcNAc modification of STIM1. These results suggest that activation of cardiomyocyte O-GlcNAcylation attenuates SOCE via STIM1 O-GlcNAcylation and that this may represent a new mechanism by which increased O-GlcNAc levels regulate Ca(2+)-mediated events in cardiomyocytes. Further, since SOCE is a fundamental mechanism underlying Ca(2+) signaling in most cells and tissues, it is possible that STIM1 represents a nexus linking protein O-GlcNAcylation with Ca(2+)-mediated transcription.

On the role of TRPC1 in control of Ca2+ influx, cell volume, and cell cycle

Ca(+) signaling plays a crucial role in control of cell cycle progression, but the understanding of the dynamics of Ca(2+) influx and release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores during the cell cycle is far from complete. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of the free extracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](o)) in cell proliferation, the pattern of changes in the free intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) during cell cycle progression, and the role of the transient receptor potential (TRP)C1 in these changes as well as in cell cycle progression and cell volume regulation. In Ehrlich Lettré Ascites (ELA) cells, [Ca(2+)](i) decreased significantly, and the thapsigargin-releasable Ca(2+) pool in the intracellular stores increased in G(1) as compared with G(0). Store-depletion-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) and TRPC1 protein expression level were both higher in G(1) than in G(0) and S phase, in parallel with a more effective volume regulation after swelling [regulatory volume decrease (RVD)] in G(1) as compared with S phase. Furthermore, reduction of [Ca(2+)](o), as well as two unspecific SOCE inhibitors, 2-APB (2-aminoethyldiphenyl borinate) and SKF96365 (1-(β-[3-(4-methoxy-phenyl)propoxyl-4-methoxyphenethyl)1H-imidazole-hydrochloride), inhibited ELA cell proliferation. Finally, Madin-Darby canine kidney cells in which TRPC1 was stably silenced [TRPC1 knockdown (TRPC1-KD) MDCK] exhibited reduced SOCE, slower RVD, and reduced cell proliferation compared with mock controls. In conclusion, in ELA cells, SOCE and TRPC1 both seem to be upregulated in G(1) as compared with S phase, concomitant with an increased rate of RVD. Furthermore, TRPC1-KD MDCK cells exhibit decreased SOCE, decreased RVD, and decreased proliferation, suggesting that, at least in certain cell types, TRPC1 is regulated during cell cycle progression and is involved in SOCE, RVD, and cell proliferation.

HIV Assembly and Budding: Ca(2+) Signaling and Non-ESCRT Proteins Set the Stage

More than a decade has elapsed since the link between the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery and HIV-1 protein trafficking and budding was first identified. L domains in HIV-1 Gag mediate recruitment of ESCRT which function in bud abscission releasing the viral particle from the host cell. Beyond virus budding, the ESCRT machinery is also involved in the endocytic pathway, cytokinesis, and autophagy. In the past few years, the number of non-ESCRT host proteins shown to be required in the assembly process has also grown. In this paper, we highlight the role of recently identified cellular factors that link ESCRT machinery to calcium signaling machinery and we suggest that this liaison contributes to setting the stage for productive ESCRT recruitment and mediation of abscission. Parallel paradigms for non-ESCRT roles in virus budding and cytokinesis will be discussed.

Store-operated channels regulate intracellular calcium in mammalian rods

Exposure to daylight closes cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) and voltage-operated Ca(2+) -permeable channels in mammalian rods. The consequent lowering of the cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), if protracted, can contribute to light-induced damage and apoptosis in these cells. We here report that mouse rods are protected against prolonged lowering of [Ca(2+)](i) by store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE). Ca(2+) stores were depleted in Ca(2+)-free saline supplemented with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) sequestration blocker cyclopiazonic acid. Store depletion elicited [Ca(2+)](i) signals that exceeded baseline [Ca(2+)](i) by 5.9 ± 0.7-fold and were antagonized by an inhibitory cocktail containing 2-APB, SKF 96365 and Gd(3+). Cation influx through SOCE channels was sufficient to elicit a secondary activation of L-type voltage-operated Ca2+ entry. We also found that TRPC1, the type 1 canonical mammalian homologue of the Drosophila photoreceptor TRP channel, is predominantly expressed within the outer nuclear layer of the retina. Rod loss in Pde6b(rdl) (rd1), Chx10/Kip1(-/-rdl) and Elovl4(TG2) dystrophic models was associated with ∼70% reduction in Trpc1 mRNA content whereas Trpc1 mRNA levels in rodless cone-full Nrl(-/-) retinas were decreased by ∼50%. Genetic ablation of TRPC1 channels, however, had no effect on SOCE, the sensitivity of the rod phototransduction cascade or synaptic transmission at rod and cone synapses. Thus, we localized two new mechanisms, SOCE and TRPC1, to mammalian rods and characterized the contribution of SOCE to Ca(2+) homeostasis. By preventing the cytosolic [Ca(2+)](i) from dropping too low under sustained saturating light conditions, these signalling pathways may protect Ca(2+)-dependent mechanisms within the ER and the cytosol without affecting normal rod function.

Privileged coupling between Ca(2+) entry through plasma membrane store-operated Ca(2+) channels and the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) pump

The sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) is the third element of capacitative calcium entry. It colocalizes with STIM1 and Orai1 at puncta, where couples plasma membrane store-operated Ca(2+) channels (SOC) to Ca(2+) pumping into the ER. The efficiency of this calcium entry-calcium refilling (CECR) coupling is comparable to the classic excitation-response transduction mechanisms. This allows efficient filling of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) with the Ca(2+) entering through SOC channels with little progression of the Ca(2+) wave towards the cell core. CECR coupling is very sensitive to changes in stoichiometry among STIM, Orai and SERCA, with excess Orai antagonizing ER refilling. ER takes up most of the calcium load that enters through SOC, whereas mitochondria take up a very small fraction. This difference is due to the spatial positioning with regard to SOC, the amplitude of the high Ca(2+) microdomains, and the differences in the Ca(2+) affinity of the uptake mechanisms.

Direct binding between Orai1 and AC8 mediates dynamic interplay between Ca2+ and cAMP signaling

The interplay between calcium ion (Ca(2+)) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling underlies crucial aspects of cell homeostasis. The membrane-bound Ca(2+)-regulated adenylyl cyclases (ACs) are pivotal points of this integration. These enzymes display high selectivity for Ca(2+) entry arising from the activation of store-operated Ca(2+) (SOC) channels, and they have been proposed to functionally colocalize with SOC channels to reinforce crosstalk between the two signaling pathways. Using a multidisciplinary approach, we have identified a direct interaction between the amino termini of Ca(2+)-stimulated AC8 and Orai1, the pore component of SOC channels. High-resolution biosensors targeted to the AC8 and Orai1 microdomains revealed that this protein-protein interaction is responsible for coordinating subcellular changes in both Ca(2+) and cAMP. The demonstration that Orai1 functions as an integral component of a highly organized signaling complex to coordinate Ca(2+) and cAMP signals underscores how SOC channels can be recruited to maximize the efficiency of the interplay between these two ubiquitous signaling pathways.

Orai1 calcium channels in the vasculature

Orai1 was discovered in T cells as a calcium-selective channel that is activated by store depletion. Recent studies suggest that it is expressed and functionally important also in blood vessels, not only because haematopoietic cells can incorporate in the vascular wall but also because Orai1 is expressed and functional in vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. This article summarises the arising observations in this new area of vascular research and debates underlying issues and challenges for future investigations. The primary focus is on vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. Specific topics include Orai1 expression; Orai1 roles in store-operated calcium entry and ionic currents of store-depleted cells; blockade of Orai1-related signals by Synta 66 and other pharmacology; activation or regulation of Orai1-related signals by physiological substances and compartments; stromal interaction molecules and the relationship of Orai1 to other ion channels, transporters and pumps; transient receptor potential canonical channels and their contribution to store-operated calcium entry; roles of Orai1 in vascular tone, remodelling, thrombus formation and inflammation; and Orai2 and Orai3. Overall, the observations suggest the existence of an additional, previously unrecognised, calcium channel of the vascular wall that is functionally important particularly in remodelling but probably also in certain vasoconstrictor contexts.

Urotensin-II signaling mechanism in rat coronary artery: role of STIM1 and Orai1-dependent store operated calcium influx in vasoconstriction

OBJECTIVE

Human urotensin-II (UII) is considered the most potentendogenous vasoconstrictor discovered to date, although the precise mechanism activated downstream of its receptor UTS2R in blood vessels remains elusive. The aim of this study was to determine the role of the store operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) signaling pathway in UII-induced coronary artery vasoconstriction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We used a combination of isometric tension measurement, Ca(2+) imaging, pharmacology, and molecular approaches to study UII-mediated rat coronary artery vasoconstriction and intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization in coronary smooth muscle cells. We found that UII promoted dose-dependent vasoconstriction and elicited Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) influx, which were sensitive to classical SOCE inhibitors. In addition, knockdown of either STIM1 or Orai1 essentially inhibited UII-mediated SOCE and prevented UII but not high-KCL evoked contraction in transfected coronary artery. Moreover, we found that Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2)β was involved in UII effects and that is colocalized with STIM1 in different submembrane compartments. Importantly, STIM1 but not Orai1 downregulation inhibits significantly independent phospholipase A(2) activation. Furthermore, lysophosphatidylcholine, an independent phospholipase A(2) product, activated Orai1 but not STIM1-dependent contraction and SOCE.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we demonstrated that different critical players of SOCE signaling pathway are required for UII-induced vasoconstriction of rat coronary artery.

ESCRT machinery potentiates HIV-1 utilization of the PI(4,5)P(2)-PLC-IP3R-Ca(2+) signaling cascade

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) release efficiency is directed by late (L) domain motifs in the viral structural precursor polyprotein Gag, which serve as links to the ESCRT (endosomal sorting complex required for transport) machinery. Linkage is normally through binding of Tsg101, an ESCRT-1 component, to the P(7)TAP motif in the p6 region of Gag. In its absence, budding is directed by binding of Alix, an ESCRT adaptor protein, to the LY(36)PX(n)L motif in Gag. We recently showed that budding requires activation of the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor (IP3R), a protein that "gates" Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores, triggers Ca(2+) cell influx and thereby functions as a major regulator of Ca(2+) signaling. In the present study, we determined whether the L domain links Gag to Ca(2+) signaling machinery. Depletion of IP3R and inactivation of phospholipase C (PLC) inhibited budding whether or not Tsg101 was bound to Gag. PLC hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol-(4,5)-bisphosphate generates inositol (1,4,5)-triphosphate, the ligand that activates IP3R. However, with Tsg101 bound, Gag release was independent of Gq-mediated activation of PLC, and budding was readily enhanced by pharmacological stimulation of PLC. Moreover, IP3R was redistributed to the cell periphery and cytosolic Ca(2+) was elevated, events indicative of induction of Ca(2+) signaling. The results suggest that L domain function, ESCRT machinery and Ca(2+) signaling are linked events in Gag release.

Calcium Channels in the Development, Maturation, and Function of Spermatozoa

A proper dialogue between spermatozoa and the egg is essential for conception of a new individual in sexually reproducing animals. Ca2+ is crucial in orchestrating this unique event leading to a new life. No wonder that nature has devised different Ca2+-permeable channels and located them at distinct sites in spermatozoa so that they can help fertilize the egg. New tools to study sperm ionic currents, and image intracellular Ca2+ with better spatial and temporal resolution even in swimming spermatozoa, are revealing how sperm ion channels participate in fertilization. This review critically examines the involvement of Ca2+ channels in multiple signaling processes needed for spermatozoa to mature, travel towards the egg, and fertilize it. Remarkably, these tiny specialized cells can express exclusive channels like CatSper for Ca2+ and SLO3 for K+, which are attractive targets for contraception and for the discovery of novel signaling complexes. Learning more about fertilization is a matter of capital importance; societies face growing pressure to counteract rising male infertility rates, provide safe male gamete-based contraceptives, and preserve biodiversity through improved captive breeding and assisted conception initiatives.

Enhanced store-operated Ca²+ entry and TRPC channel expression in pulmonary arteries of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertensive rats

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with profound vascular remodeling and alterations in Ca(2+) homeostasis in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Previous studies show that canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) genes are upregulated and store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) is augmented in PASMCs of chronic hypoxic rats and patients of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Here we further examine the involvement of TRPC and SOCE in PH with a widely used rat model of monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH. Rats developed severe PAH, right ventricular hypertrophy, and significant increase in store-operated TRPC1 and TRPC4 mRNA and protein in endothelium-denuded pulmonary arteries (PAs) 3 wk after MCT injection. Contraction of PA and Ca(2+) influx in PASMC evoked by store depletion using cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) were enhanced dramatically, consistent with augmented SOCE in the MCT-treated group. The time course of increase in CPA-induced contraction corresponded to that of TRPC1 expression. Endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced vasoconstriction was also potentiated in PAs of MCT-treated rats. The response was partially inhibited by SOCE blockers, including Gd(3+), La(3+), and SKF-96365, as well as the general TRPC inhibitor BTP-2, suggesting that TRPC-dependent SOCE was involved. Moreover, the ET-1-induced contraction and Ca(2+) response in the MCT group were more susceptible to the inhibition caused by the various SOCE blockers. Hence, our study shows that MCT-induced PAH is associated with increased TRPC expression and SOCE, which are involved in the enhanced vascular reactivity to ET-1, and support the hypothesis that TRPC-dependent SOCE is an important pathway for the development of PH.

SOC and now also SIC: store-operated and store-inhibited channels

There is a specialized form of calcium influx that involves a close communication between endoplasmic reticulum and the channels at the plasma membrane. In one side store depletion activates channels known as store-operated channels (SOC), which are responsible of the well-studied store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). SOC comprises two different types of channels. Orai, which is exclusively activated by store depletion being the channel responsible of the calcium release-activated calcium current, and transient receptor potential canonical channel, which in contrast, is activated by store depletion only under specific conditions and carries nonselective cationic currents. On the other hand, it has been recently shown that store depletion also inhibits calcium channels. The first member identified, of what we named as store-inhibited channels (SIC), is the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel. Stores control both SOC and SIC by means of the multifunctional protein STIM1. The identification of SOC and SIC opens a new scenario for the role of store depletion in the modulation of different calcium entry pathways, which may satisfy different cellular processes.

Does calcium contribute to the CD95 signaling pathway?

Death receptors play a crucial role in immune surveillance and cellular homeostasis, two processes circumvented by tumor cells. CD95 (also termed Fas or APO1) is a transmembrane receptor, which belongs to the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, and induces a potent apoptotic signal. Initial steps of the CD95 signal take place through protein/protein interactions that bring zymogens such as caspase-8 and caspase-10 closer. Aggregation of these procaspases leads to their autoprocessing, to the release of activated caspases in the cytosol, which causes a caspase cascade, and to the transmission of the apoptotic signal. In parallel, CD95 engagement drives an increase in the intracellular calcium concentration (Ca(2+))i whose origin and functions remain controversial. Although Ca(2+) ions play a central role in apoptosis/necrosis induction, recent studies have highlighted a protective role of Ca(2+) in death receptor signaling. In the light of these findings, we discuss the role of Ca(2+) ions as modulators of CD95 signaling.

Cell proliferation, calcium influx and calcium channels

Both increases in the basal cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) and [Ca(2+)](cyt) transients play major roles in cell cycle progression, cell proliferation and division. Calcium transients are observed at various stages of cell cycle and more specifically during late G(1) phase, before and during mitosis. These calcium transients are mainly due to calcium release and reuptake by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are observed over periods of hours in oocytes and mammalian cells. Calcium entry sustains the ER Ca(2+) load and thereby helps to maintain these calcium transients for such a long period. Calcium influx also controls cell growth and proliferation in several cell types. Various calcium channels are involved in this process and the tight relation between the expression and activity of cyclins and calcium channels also suggests that calcium entry may be needed only at particular stages of the cell cycle. Consistent with this idea, the expression of l-type and T-type calcium channels and SOCE amplitude fluctuate along the cell cycle. But, as calcium influx regulates several other transduction pathways, the presence of a specific connection to trigger activation of proliferation and cell division in mammalian cells will be discussed in this review.

Regulators of Ca(2+) signaling in mast cells: potential targets for treatment of mast cell-related diseases?

A calcium signal is essential for degranulation, generation of eicosanoids and optimal production of cytokines in mast cells in response to antigen and other stimulants. The signal is initiated by phospholipase C-mediated production of inositol1,4,5-trisphosphate resulting in release of stored Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi. Depletion of these stores activates influx of extracellular Ca(2+), usually referred to as store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), through the interaction of the Ca(2+)-sensor, stromal interacting molecule-1 (STIM1 ), in ER with Orai1(CRACM1) and transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channel proteins in the plasma membrane (PM). This interaction is enabled by microtubular-directed reorganization of ER to form ER/PM contact points or "punctae" in which STIM1 and channel proteins colocalize. The ensuing influx of Ca(2+) replenishes Ca(2+) stores and sustains elevated levels of cytosolic Ca(2+) ions-the obligatory signal for mast-cell activation. In addition, the signal can acquire spatial and dynamic characteristics (e.g., calcium puffs, waves, oscillations) that encode signals for specific functional outputs. This is achieved by coordinated regulation of Ca(2+) fluxes through ATP-dependent Ca(2+)-pumps and ion exchangers in mitochondria, ER and PM. As discussed in this chapter, studies in mast cells revealed much about the mechanisms described above but little about allergic and autoimmune diseases although studies in other types of cells have exposed genetic defects that lead to aberrant calcium signaling in immune diseases. Pharmacologic agents that inhibit or activate the regulatory components of calcium signaling in mast cells are also discussed along with the prospects for development of novel SOCE inhibitors that may prove beneficial in the treatment inflammatory mast-cell related diseases.

STIM1 and STIM2 are located in the acidic Ca2+ stores and associates with Orai1 upon depletion of the acidic stores in human platelets

Mammalian cells accumulate Ca2+ into agonist-sensitive acidic organelles, vesicles that possess a vacuolar proton-ATPase. Acidic Ca2+ stores include secretory granules and lysosome-related organelles. Current evidence clearly indicates that acidic Ca2+ stores participate in cell signaling and function, including the activation of store-operated Ca2+ entry in human platelets upon depletion of the acidic stores, although the mechanism underlying the activation of store-operated Ca2+ entry controlled by the acidic stores remains unclear. STIM1 has been presented as the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ sensor, but its role sensing intraluminal Ca2+ concentration in the acidic stores has not been investigated. Here we report that STIM1 and STIM2 are expressed in the lysosome-related organelles and dense granules in human platelets isolated by immunomagnetic sorting. Depletion of the acidic Ca2+ stores using the specific vacuolar proton-ATPase inhibitor, bafilomycin A1, enhanced the association between STIM1 and STIM2 as well as between these proteins and the plasma membrane channel Orai1. Depletion of the acidic Ca2+ stores also induces time-dependent co-immunoprecipitation of STIM1 with the TRPC proteins hTRPC1 and hTRPC6, as well as between Orai1 and both TRPC proteins. In addition, bafilomycin A1 enhanced the association between STIM2 and SERCA3. These findings demonstrate the location of STIM1 and STIM2 in the acidic Ca2+ stores and their association with Ca2+ channels and ATPases upon acidic stores discharge.

Calcium entry-calcium refilling (CECR) coupling between store-operated Ca(2+) entry and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase

Cross-talk between subcellular organelles is essential for cellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. We have studied the effects of knocking down STIM1, the Ca(2+) sensor of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), on several homeostatic Ca(2+)-handling mechanisms, including plasma membrane Ca(2+) entry and transport by ER, mitochondria and nucleus. We have used targeted aequorins to selectively measure calcium fluxes in different organelles. Actions of STIM1 were extremely selective, restricted to store operated Ca(2+) channels (SOC) and Ca(2+) uptake by the ER. No interactions with uptake or release of Ca(2+) by mitochondria or nucleus were detected. Ca(2+) exit from the ER, including passive leak, release via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and ryanodine receptors, was unaffected. STIM1 knock-down inhibited ER Ca(2+) uptake in intact but not in permeabilized cells, suggesting a privileged calcium entry-calcium refilling (CECR) coupling between plasma membrane SOC and ER calcium pump in the intact cell. As a result a large part of the entering Ca(2+) is taken up into the ER without reaching the bulk cytosol. The tightness of CECR, as measured by the slope of the stimulus-signal strength function, was comparable to classic excitation-response coupling mechanisms, such as excitation-contraction, excitation-secretion or excitation-transcription coupling.

Lipid rafts are essential for the regulation of SOCE by plasma membrane resident STIM1 in human platelets

STIM1 is a transmembrane protein essential for the activation of store-operated Ca²+ entry (SOCE), a major Ca²+ influx mechanism. STIM1 is either located in the endoplasmic reticulum, communicating the Ca²+ concentration in the stores to plasma membrane channels or in the plasma membrane, where it might sense the extracellular Ca²+ concentration. Plasma membrane-located STIM1 has been reported to mediate the SOCE sensitivity to extracellular Ca²+ through its interaction with Orai1. Here we show that plasma membrane lipid raft domains are essential for the regulation of SOCE by extracellular Ca²+. Treatment of platelets with the SERCA inhibitor thapsigargin (TG) induced Mn²+ entry, which was inhibited by increasing concentrations of extracellular Ca²+. Platelet treatment with methyl-β-cyclodextrin, which removes cholesterol and disrupts the lipid raft domains, impaired the inactivation of Ca²+ entry induced by extracellular Ca²+. Methyl-β-cyclodextrin also abolished translocation of STIM1 to the plasma membrane stimulated by treatment with TG and prevented TG-evoked co-immunoprecipitation between plasma membrane-located STIM1 and the Ca²+ permeable channel Orai1. These findings suggest that lipid raft domains are essential for the inactivation of SOCE by extracellular Ca²+ mediated by the interaction between plasma membrane-located STIM1 and Orai1.

The TRPC ion channels: association with Orai1 and STIM1 proteins and participation in capacitative and non-capacitative calcium entry

Transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins are involved in a large number of non-selective cation channels that are permeable to both monovalent and divalent cations. Two general classes of receptor-mediated Ca(2+) entry has been proposed: one of then is conduced by receptor-operated Ca(2+) channels (ROC), the second is mediated by channels activated by the emptying of intracellular Ca(2+) stores (store-operated channels or SOC). TRP channels have been presented as subunits of both ROC and SOC, although the precise mechanism that regulates the participation of TRP proteins in these Ca(2+) entry mechanisms remains unclear. Recently, TRPC proteins have been shown to associate with Orai1 and STIM1 in a dynamic ternary complex regulated by the occupation of membrane receptors in several cell models, which might play an important role in the function of TRPC proteins. The present review summarizes the current knowledge concerning the association of TRP proteins with Orai and STIM proteins and how this affects the participation of TRP proteins in store-operated or receptor-operated Ca(2+) entry.

Protein kinase C alpha enhances sodium-calcium exchange during store-operated calcium entry in mouse platelets

A rise in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) is necessary for platelet activation. A major component of the [Ca(2+)](i) elevation occurs through store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE). The aim of this study was to understand the contribution of the classical PKC isoform, PKCα to platelet SOCE, using platelets from PKCα-deficient mice. SOCE was reduced by approximately 50% in PKCα(-/-) platelets, or following treatment with bisindolylmaleimide I, a PKC inhibitor. However, TG-induced Mn(2+) entry was unaffected, which suggests that divalent cation entry through store-operated channels is not directly regulated. Blocking the autocrine action of secreted ADP or 5-HT on its receptors did not reproduce the effect of PKCα deficiency. In contrast, SN-6, a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger inhibitor, did reduce SOCE to the same extent as loss of PKCα, as did replacing extracellular Na(+) with NMDG(+). These treatments had no further effect in PKCα(-/-) platelets. These data suggest that PKCα enhances the extent of SOCE in mouse platelets by regulating Ca(2+) entry through the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger.

The role of transient receptor potential cation channels in Ca2+ signaling

The 28 mammalian members of the super-family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are cation channels, mostly permeable to both monovalent and divalent cations, and can be subdivided into six main subfamilies: the TRPC (canonical), TRPV (vanilloid), TRPM (melastatin), TRPP (polycystin), TRPML (mucolipin), and the TRPA (ankyrin) groups. TRP channels are widely expressed in a large number of different tissues and cell types, and their biological roles appear to be equally diverse. In general, considered as polymodal cell sensors, they play a much more diverse role than anticipated. Functionally, TRP channels, when activated, cause cell depolarization, which may trigger a plethora of voltage-dependent ion channels. Upon stimulation, Ca2+ permeable TRP channels generate changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]i, by Ca2+ entry via the plasma membrane. However, more and more evidence is arising that TRP channels are also located in intracellular organelles and serve as intracellular Ca2+ release channels. This review focuses on three major tasks of TRP channels: (1) the function of TRP channels as Ca2+ entry channels; (2) the electrogenic actions of TRPs; and (3) TRPs as Ca2+ release channels in intracellular organelles.

Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and not mitochondrial motility is required for STIM1-Orai1-dependent store-operated Ca2+ entry

Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is established by formation of subplasmalemmal clusters of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein, stromal interacting molecule 1 (STIM1) upon ER Ca2+ depletion. Thereby, STIM1 couples to plasma membrane channels such as Orai1. Thus, a close proximity of ER domains to the plasma membrane is a prerequisite for SOCE activation, challenging the concept of local Ca2+ buffering by mitochondria as being essential for SOCE. This study assesses the impact of mitochondrial Ca2+ handling and motility on STIM1–Orai1-dependent SOCE. High-resolution microscopy showed only 10% of subplasmalemmal STIM1 clusters to be colocalized with mitochondria. Impairments of mitochondrial Ca2+ handling by inhibition of mitochondrial Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCXmito) or depolarization only partially suppressed Ca2+ entry in cells overexpressing STIM1-Orai1. However, SOCE was completely abolished when both NCXmito was inhibited and the inner mitochondrial membrane was depolarized, in STIM1- and Orai1-overexpressing cells. Immobilization of mitochondria by expression of mAKAP-RFP-CAAX, a construct that physically links mitochondria to the plasma membrane, affected the Ca2+ handling of the organelles but not the activity of SOCE. Our observations indicate that mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake, including reversal of NCXmito, is fundamental for STIM1–Orai1-dependent SOCE, whereas the proximity of mitochondria to STIM1-Orai1 SOCE units and their motility is not required.

Lipid rafts modulate the activation but not the maintenance of store-operated Ca(2+) entry

Different studies have reported that proteins involved in Ca(2+) entry are localized in discrete plasma membrane domains known as lipid rafts, which have been suggested to support store-operated Ca(2+) entry by facilitating STIM1 clustering in endoplasmic reticulum-plasma membrane junctions as well as the interaction of STIM1 with TRPC1. Here we report that treatment of HEK293 cells with thapsigargin (TG) results in the activation of Ca(2+) entry with two components, an early, La(3+)-sensitive, component and a late component that shows both La(3+)-sensitive and -insensitive constituents. Preincubation with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (MbetaCD) prevented TG-induced activation of Ca(2+) entry but, in contrast, enhanced this process after its activation. Addition of MbetaCD after store depletion did not modify the La(3+)-sensitive store-operated divalent cation entry but increased La(3+)-insensitive non-capacitative Ca(2+) entry. Cell stimulation with TG results in a transient increase in Orai1 co-immunoprecipitation with STIM1, TRPC1 and TRPC6. TG-induced association of these proteins was significantly attenuated by preincubation for 30 min with MbetaCD, without altering surface expression of Orai1 or TRPCs. In contrast, the association of Orai1 with STIM1 or TRPC1 was unaffected when MbetaCD was added after store depletion with TG. Addition of MbetaCD to TG-treated cells promoted dissociation between Orai1 and TRPC6, as well as non-capacitative Ca(2+) entry. TRPC6 expression silencing indicates that MbetaCD-enhanced non-capacitative Ca(2+) entry was mediated by TRPC6. In conclusion, lipid raft domains are necessary for the activation but not the maintenance of SOCE probably due to the support of the formation of Ca(2+) signalling complexes involving Orai1, TRPCs and STIM1.