Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) and calcium interact to increase the dynamic range of InsP3 receptor-dependent calcium signaling

A kinetic Monte Carlo simulation study of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) calcium release channel

Most of the previously theoretical studies about the stochastic nature of the IP3R calcium release channel gating use the chemical master equation (CME) approach. Because of the limitations of this approach we have used a stochastic simulation algorithm (SSA) presented by Gillespie. A single subunit of De Young-Keizer (DYK) model was simulated using Gillespie algorithm. The model has been considered in its complete form with eight states. We investigate the conditions which affect the open state of the model. Calcium concentrations were the subject of fluctuation in the previous works while in this study the population of the states is the subject of stochastic fluctuations. We found out that decreasing open probability is a function of Ca(2+) concentration in fast time domain, while in slow time domain it is a function of IP3 concentration. Studying the population of each state shows a time dependent reaction pattern in fast and medium time domains (10(-4) and 10(-3)s). In this pattern the state of X(010) has a determinative role in selecting the open state path. Also, intensity and frequency of fluctuations and Ca(2+) inhibitions have been studied. The results indicate that Gillespie algorithm can be a better choice for studying such systems, without using any approximation or elimination while having acceptable accuracy. In comparison with the chemical master equation, Gillespie algorithm is also provides a wide area for studying biological systems from other points of view.

BG60S dissolution interferes with osteoblast calcium signals

We investigated the influence of extracellular calcium concentration, caused by the dissolution of a bioactive glass with 60% of silicon (BG60S), on intracellular calcium (Ca(i) (2 +)) signals and expression of inositol 1, 4, 5-triphosphate receptors (InsP(3)R) in primary culture of osteoblasts. We found that BG60S caused an increase in Ca(i) (2 +) signals in this cell type. Additionally, osteoblasts pre-incubated in the presence of BG60S showed an increase in Ca(i) (2 +) when cells were stimulated with vasopressin. On the other hand, a decrease in Ca(i) (2 +) signals were observed in osteoblasts pre-treated with BG60S and stimulated with KCl. We furher found that in osteoblasts, the type I InsP(3)R is preferentially distributed in the nucleus while the type II InsP(3)R in the cytoplasm. Preincubation of osteoblasts with BG60S altered the receptor expression level, increasing the type I InsP(3)R in the nucleus and decreasing type II InsP(3)R in the cytosol. Together, our results showed that in osteoblasts, BG60S increased Ca(i) (2 +)signals and altered Ca(i) (2 +) machinery.

Modulation of Ca(2+) release and Ca(2+) oscillations in HeLa cells and fibroblasts by mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter stimulation

The recent availability of activators of the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter allows direct testing of the influence of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake on the overall Ca(2+) homeostasis of the cell. We show here that activation of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake by 4,4',4''-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol (PPT) or kaempferol stimulates histamine-induced Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and that this effect is enhanced if the mitochondrial Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchanger is simultaneously inhibited with CGP37157. This suggests that both Ca(2+) uptake and release from mitochondria control the ability of local Ca(2+) microdomains to produce feedback inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP(3)Rs). In addition, the ability of mitochondria to control Ca(2+) release from the ER allows them to modulate cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations. In histamine stimulated HeLa cells and human fibroblasts, both PPT and kaempferol initially stimulated and later inhibited oscillations, although kaempferol usually induced a more prolonged period of stimulation. Both compounds were also able to induce the generation of Ca(2+) oscillations in previously silent fibroblasts. Our data suggest that cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations are exquisitely sensitive to the rates of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake and release, which precisely control the size of the local Ca(2+) microdomains around InsP(3)Rs and thus the ability to produce feedback activation or inhibition of Ca(2+) release.

The dynamics of luminal depletion and the stochastic gating of Ca2+-activated Ca2+ channels and release sites

Single channel models of intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) channels such as the 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor and ryanodine receptor often assume that Ca(2+)-dependent transitions are mediated by constant background cytosolic [Ca(2+)]. This assumption neglects the fact that Ca(2+) released by open channels may influence subsequent gating through the processes of Ca(2+)-activation or inactivation. Similarly, the influence of the dynamics of luminal depletion on the stochastic gating of intracellular Ca(2+) channels is often neglected, in spite of the fact that the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum [Ca(2+)] near the luminal face of intracellular Ca(2+) channels influences the driving force for Ca(2+), the rate of Ca(2+) release, and the magnitude and time course of the consequent increase in cytosolic domain [Ca(2+)]. Here we analyze how the steady-state open probability of several minimal Ca(2+)-regulated Ca(2+) channel models depends on the conductance of the channel and the time constants for the relaxation of elevated cytosolic [Ca(2+)] and depleted luminal [Ca(2+)] to the bulk [Ca(2+)] of both compartments. Our approach includes Monte Carlo simulation as well as numerical solution of a system of advection-reaction equations for the multivariate probability density of elevated cytosolic [Ca(2+)] and depleted luminal [Ca(2+)] conditioned on each state of the stochastically gating channel. Both methods are subsequently used to study the role of luminal depletion in the dynamics of Ca(2+) puff/spark termination in release sites composed of Ca(2+) channels that are activated, but not inactivated, by cytosolic Ca(2+). The probability density approach shows that such minimal Ca(2+) release site models may exhibit puff/spark-like dynamics in either of two distinct parameter regimes. In one case, puffs/spark termination is due to the process of stochastic attrition and facilitated by rapid Ca(2+) domain collapse [cf. DeRemigio, H., Smith, G., 2005. The dynamics of stochastic attrition viewed as an absorption time on a terminating Markov chain. Cell Calcium 38, 73-86]. In the second case, puff/spark termination is promoted by the local depletion of luminal Ca(2+).

The mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger plays a key role in the control of cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations

There is increasing evidence that mitochondria play an important role in the control of cytosolic Ca2+ signaling. We show here that the main mitochondrial Ca2+-exit pathway, the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, controls the pattern of cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations in non-excitable cells. In HeLa cells, the inhibitor of the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger CGP37157 changed the pattern of the oscillations induced by histamine from a high-frequency irregular one to a lower frequency baseline spike type, surprisingly with little changes in the average Ca2+ values of a large cell population. In human fibroblasts, CGP37157 increased the frequency of the baseline oscillations in cells having spontaneous activity and induced the generation of oscillations in cells without spontaneous activity. This effect was dose-dependent, disappeared when the inhibitor was washed out and was not mimicked by mitochondrial depolarization. CGP37157 increased mitochondrial [Ca2+] and ATP production in histamine-stimulated HeLa cells, but the effect on ATP production was only transient. CGP37157 also activated histamine-induced Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and increased the size of the cytosolic Ca2+ peak induced by histamine in HeLa cells. Our results suggest that the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger directly modulates inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release and in that way controls cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations.

The asymptotic behavior of solutions of the buffered bistable system

In this paper, we study a model for calcium buffering with bistable nonlinearity. We present some results on the stability of equilibrium states and show that there exists a threshold phenomenon in our model. In comparing with the model without buffers, we see that stationary buffers cannot destroy the asymptotic stability of the associated equilibrium states and the threshold phenomenon. Moreover, we also investigate the propagation property of solutions with initial data being a disturbance of one of the stable states which is confined to a half-line. We show that the more stable state will eventually dominate the whole dynamics and that the speed of this propagation (or invading process) is positive.

Airway smooth muscle relaxation results from a reduction in the frequency of Ca2+ oscillations induced by a cAMP-mediated inhibition of the IP3 receptor

Background

It has been shown that the contractile state of airway smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in response to agonists is determined by the frequency of Ca²⁺ oscillations occurring within the SMCs. Therefore, we hypothesized that the relaxation of airway SMCs induced by agents that increase cAMP results from the down-regulation or slowing of the frequency of the Ca²⁺ oscillations.

Methods

The effects of isoproterenol (ISO), forskolin (FSK) and 8-bromo-cAMP on the relaxation and Ca²⁺ signaling of airway SMCs contracted with methacholine (MCh) was investigated in murine lung slices with phase-contrast and laser scanning microscopy.

Results

All three cAMP-elevating agents simultaneously induced a reduction in the frequency of Ca²⁺ oscillations within the SMCs and the relaxation of contracted airways. The decrease in the Ca²⁺ oscillation frequency correlated with the extent of airway relaxation and was concentration-dependent. The mechanism by which cAMP reduced the frequency of the Ca²⁺ oscillations was investigated. Elevated cAMP did not affect the re-filling rate of the internal Ca²⁺ stores after emptying by repetitive exposure to 20 mM caffeine. Neither did elevated cAMP limit the Ca²⁺ available to stimulate contraction because an elevation of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration induced by exposure to a Ca²⁺ ionophore (ionomycin) or by photolysis of caged-Ca²⁺ did not reverse the effect of cAMP. Similar results were obtained with iberiotoxin, a blocker of Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels, which would be expected to increase Ca²⁺ influx and contraction. By contrast, the photolysis of caged-IP₃ in the presence of agonist, to further elevate the intracellular IP₃ concentration, reversed the slowing of the frequency of the Ca²⁺ oscillations and relaxation of the airway induced by FSK. This result implied that the sensitivity of the IP₃R to IP₃ was reduced by FSK and this was supported by the reduced ability of IP₃ to release Ca²⁺ in SMCs in the presence of FSK.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the relaxant effect of cAMP-elevating agents on airway SMCs is achieved by decreasing the Ca²⁺ oscillation frequency by reducing internal Ca²⁺ release through IP₃ receptors.

Calcium regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

Ca2+ exerts both a stimulatory and inhibitory effect on type-I IP3R channel activity. However, the structural determinants of Ca2+ sensing in IP3Rs are not fully understood. Previous studies by others have identified eight domains of the type-I IP3R that bind 45Ca2+ when expressed as GST-fusion proteins. We have mutated six highly conserved acidic residues within the second of these domains (aa378-450) in the full-length IP3R and measured the Ca2+ regulation of IP3-mediated Ca2+ release in COS-7 cells. 45Ca2+ flux assays measured with a maximal [IP3] (1 microM) indicate that one of the mutants retained a Ca2+ sensitivity that was not significantly different from control (E411Q), three of the mutants show an enhanced Ca2+ inhibition (D426N, E428Q and E439Q) and two of the mutants were relatively insensitive to Ca2+ inhibition (D442N and D444N). IP3 dose-response relationships indicated that the sensitivity to Ca2+ inhibition and affinity for IP3 were correlated for three of the constructs. Other mutants with enhanced IP3 sensitivity (e.g. R441Q and a type-II/I IP3R chimera) were also less sensitive to Ca2+ inhibition. We conclude that the acidic residues within the aa378-450 segment are unlikely to represent a single functional Ca2+ binding domain and do not contribute to Ca2+ activation of the receptor. The different effects of the mutations may be related to their location within two clusters of acidic residues identified in the crystal structure of the ligand-binding domain [I. Bosanac, J.R. Alattia, T.K. Mal, et al., Structure of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor binding core in complex with its ligand, Nature 420 (2002) 696-700]. The data support the view that all IP3R isoforms may display a range of Ca2+ sensitivities that are determined by multiple sites within the protein and markedly influenced by the affinity of the receptor for IP3.

Models of the inositol trisphosphate receptor

The inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptor (IPR) plays a crucial role in calcium dynamics in a wide range of cell types, and is often a central feature in quantitative models of calcium oscillations and waves. We review deterministic and stochastic mathematical models of the IPR, from the earliest ones of the 1970s and 1980s, to the most recent. The effects of IPR stochasticity on Ca2+ dynamics are briefly discussed.

Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors and inositol phosphates in the heart-evolutionary artefacts or active signal transducers?

The generation of the second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P(3)) and its associated release of Ca(2+) from internal stores is a highly conserved module in intracellular signaling from Drosophila to mammals. Many cell types, often nonexcitable cells, depend on this pathway to couple external signals to intracellular Ca(2+) release. However, despite the presence of the requisite Ins(1,4,5)P(3) signaling machinery, excitable cells such as cardiac myocytes employ a robust alternate system of intracellular Ca(2+) release, namely, a coupled system of Ca(2+) influx, followed by Ca(2+) release via the IP(3)R-related ryanodine receptors. In these systems, Ins(1,4,5)P(3) signaling pathways appear to be largely dormant. In this review, we consider the general features of inositol phosphate (InsP) responses in cardiac myocytes and the molecules mediating these responses. The spatial localization of Ins(1,4,5)P(3) generation and Ins(1,4,5)P(3) receptor (IP(3)Rs) is likely of key importance, and we examine the state of knowledge in atrial, ventricular, and Purkinje myocytes. Several studies have implicated Ins(1,4,5)P(3) generation in both arrhythmogenic and hypertrophic responses, and possible mechanisms involving Ins(1,4,5)P(3) are discussed. While Ins(1,4,5)P(3) is unlikely to be a key player in cardiac excitation-contraction (EC) coupling, its potential role in an alternate Ca(2+) release system to signal changes in gene transcription warrants further investigation. Such studies will help to determine whether cardiac Ins(1,4,5)P(3) generation represents a vestigial pathway or plays an active role in cardiac signaling.

Modeling and analysis of calcium signaling events leading to long-term depression in cerebellar Purkinje cells

Modeling and simulation of the calcium signaling events that precede long-term depression of synaptic activity in cerebellar Purkinje cells are performed using the Virtual Cell biological modeling framework. It is found that the unusually high density and low sensitivity of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3R) are critical to the ability of the cell to generate and localize a calcium spike in a single dendritic spine. The results also demonstrate the model's capability to simulate the supralinear calcium spike observed experimentally during coincident activation of the parallel and climbing fibers. The sensitivity of the calcium spikes to certain biological and geometrical effects is investigated as well as the mechanisms that underlie the cell's ability to generate the supralinear spike. The sensitivity of calcium release rates from the IP3R to calcium concentrations, as well as IP3 concentrations, allows the calcium spike to form. The diffusion barrier caused by the small radius of the spine neck is shown to be important, as a threshold radius is observed above which a spike cannot be formed. Additionally, the calcium buffer capacity and diffusion rates from the spine are found to be important parameters in shaping the calcium spike.

Cell volume regulation following hypotonic stress in the intestine of the eel, Anguilla anguilla, is Ca2+-dependent

The involvement of Ca2+ in the regulatory volume decrease (RVD) mechanism was studied in both isolated enterocytes and intestine of the eel, Anguilla anguilla. Videometric methods and electrophysiological techniques were respectively employed. The isolated enterocytes rapidly swelled following a change from isotonic (315 mOsm/kg) to hypotonic (180 mOsm/kg) saline solutions. Afterwards, they tended to recover their original size. This homeostatic response was inhibited both in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ and in the presence of TMB8, an inhibitor of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. It is likely that Ca2+ entry through verapamil-sensitive Ca2+ channels is responsible for RVD since the blocker impaired the ability of the cell to recover its volume after the hypotonic shock. The observation that a 10-fold increase of K+ concentration as well as the presence of quinine in the hypotonic solution completely abolished RVD indicated the involvement of K+ in this response. Experiments performed with the isolated intestine suggested that the opening of basolateral K+ channels facilitates K+ loss (and hence water efflux) from the cell during RVD and that this opening is probably due to Ca2+ entry into the cell through both the mucosal and the serosal membranes.

The effect of residual on the stochastic gating of -regulated channel models

Single-channel models of intracellular Ca(2+) channels such as the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor and ryanodine receptor often assume that Ca(2+)-dependent transitions are mediated by a constant background [Ca(2+)] as opposed to a dynamic [Ca(2+)] representing the formation and collapse of a localized Ca(2+) domain. This assumption neglects the fact that Ca(2+) released by open intracellular Ca(2+) channels may influence subsequent gating through the processes of Ca(2+)-activation or -inactivation. We study the effect of such "residual Ca(2+)" from previous channel opening on the stochastic gating of minimal and realistic single-channel models coupled to a restricted cytoplasmic compartment. Using Monte Carlo simulation as well as analytical and numerical solution of a system of advection-reaction equations for the probability density of the domain [Ca(2+)] conditioned on the state of the channel, we determine how the steady-state open probability (p(open)) of single-channel models of Ca(2+)-regulated Ca(2+) channels depends on the time constant for Ca(2+) domain formation and collapse. As expected, p(open) for a minimal model including Ca(2+) activation increases as the domain time constant becomes large compared to the open and closed dwell times of the channel, that is, on average the channel is activated by residual Ca(2+) from previous openings. Interestingly, p(open) for a channel model that is inactivated by Ca(2+) also increases as a function of the domain time constant when the maximum domain [Ca(2+)] is fixed, because slow formation of the Ca(2+) domain attenuates Ca(2+)-mediated inactivation. Conversely, when the source amplitude of the channel is fixed, increasing the domain time constant leads to elevated domain [Ca(2+)] and decreased open probability. Consistent with these observations, a realistic De Young-Keizer-like IP(3)R model responds to residual Ca(2+) with a steady-state open probability that is a monotonic function of the domain time constant, though minimal models that include both Ca(2+)-activation and -inactivation show more complex behavior. We show how the probability density approach described here can be generalized for arbitrarily complex channel models and for any value of the domain time constant. In addition, we present a comparatively simple numerical procedure for estimating p(open) for models of Ca(2+)-regulated Ca(2+) channels in the limit of a very fast or very slow Ca(2+) domain. When the ordinary differential equation for the [Ca(2+)] in a restricted cytoplasmic compartment is replaced by a partial differential equation for the buffered diffusion of intracellular Ca(2+) in a homogeneous isotropic cytosol, we find the dependence of p(open) on the buffer time constant is qualitatively similar to the above-mentioned results.

Calcium feedback mechanisms regulate oscillatory activity of a TRP-like Ca2+ conductance in C. elegans intestinal cells

Inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-dependent Ca2+ oscillations in Caenorhabditis elegans intestinal epithelial cells regulate the nematode defecation cycle. The role of plasma membrane ion channels in intestinal cell oscillatory Ca2+ signalling is unknown. We have shown previously that cultured intestinal cells express a Ca2+-selective conductance, I(ORCa), that is biophysically similar to TRPM7 currents. I(ORCa) activates slowly and stabilizes when cells are patch clamped with pipette solutions containing 10 mm BAPTA and free Ca2+ concentrations of approximately 17 nm. However, when BAPTA concentration is lowered to 1 mm, I(ORCa) oscillates. Oscillations in channel activity induced simultaneous oscillations in cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ inhibited I(ORCa) oscillations, whereas readdition of Ca2+ to the bath caused a rapid and transient reactivation of the current. Experimental manoeuvres that elevated intracellular Ca2+ blocked current oscillations. Elevation of intracellular Ca2+ in the presence of 10 mm BAPTA to block I(ORCa) oscillations led to a dose-dependent increase in the rate of current activation. At intracellular Ca2+ concentrations of 250 nm, current activation was transient. Patch pipette solutions buffered with 1-4 mm of either BAPTA or EGTA gave rise to similar patterns of I(ORCa) oscillations. We conclude that changes in Ca2+ concentration close to the intracellular opening of the channel pore regulate channel activity. Low concentrations of Ca2+ activate the channel. As Ca2+ enters and accumulates near the pore mouth, channel activity is inhibited. Oscillating plasma membrane Ca2+ entry may play a role in generating intracellular Ca2+ oscillations that regulate the C. elegans defecation rhythm.

Gating mechanisms of the type-1 inositol trisphosphate receptor

A large amount of data and observations on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) binding to the IP(3) receptor/Ca(2+) channel, the steady-state activity of the channel, and its inactivation by IP(3) can be explained by assuming one activation and one inhibition module, both allosterically operated by Ca(2+), IP(3), and ATP, and one adaptation element, driven by IP(3), Ca(2+), and the interconversion between two possible conformations of the receptor. The adaptation module becomes completely insensitive to a second IP(3) pulse within 80 s. Observed kinetic responses are well reproduced if, in addition, two module open states are rendered inactive by the current charge carrier Mn(2+). The inactivation time constants are 59 s in the activation, and 0.75 s in the adaptation module. The in vivo open probability of the channel is predicted to be almost in coincidence with the behavior in lipid bilayers for IP(3) levels of 0.2 and 2 microM and one-order-higher at 0.02 microM IP(3), whereas at 180 microM IP(3) the maximal in vivo activity may be 2.5-orders higher than in bilayers and restricted to a narrower Ca(2+) domain (approximately 10 microM-wide versus approximately 100 microM-wide). IP(3) is likely to inhibit channel activity at < or =120 nM Ca(2+) in vivo.

Facilitatory effect of Ins(1,4,5)P3 on store-operated Ca2+-permeable cation channels in rabbit portal vein myocytes

In rabbit portal vein smooth muscle cells, store-operated Ca2+-permeable cation channels (SOCs) display multi-modal gating mechanisms. SOCs are activated by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores but also may be stimulated in a store-independent manner by noradrenaline acting on alpha-adrenoceptors and by diacylglycerol (DAG) via protein kinase C (PKC). In the present study we have investigated whether inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3) modulates SOC activity in freshly dispersed rabbit portal vein myocytes with patch pipette recording techniques. Inclusion of 1 mum Ins(1,4,5)P3 in the patch pipette solution increased whole-cell currents evoked by the Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) by about 3-fold at -80 mV. In the cell-attached configuration the cell-permeable Ca2+ chelator BAPTA-AM stimulated SOC activity and after excision of an isolated inside-out patch bath application of 1 mum Ins(1,4,5)P3 increased open channel probability (NP(o)) by approximately 3-fold. Ins(1,4,5)P3 also produced a similar increase in NP(o) of SOCs stimulated by the phorbol ester, phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) in inside-out patches and these channel currents had a unitary conductance of about 2 pS. The equilibrium constant of Ins(1,4,5)P3 on increasing PDBu-evoked SOC activity was about 0.4 mum. The facilitatory effect of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was also manifest as markedly increasing the rate of activation of SOCs. The synergistic effect of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was mimicked by the metabolically stable analogue 3-fluoro-Ins(1,4,5)P3 and Ins(1,4)P2, a metabolite of Ins(1,4,5)P3, but was not inhibited by the classical Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor antagonist heparin. Finally Ins(1,4,5)P3 also increased NP(o) of SOCs activated by a PKC catalytic subunit. It is concluded that Ins(1,4,5)P3 facilitates SOC opening via a heparin-insensitive mechanism at, or close to, the channel protein.

Cell calcium oscillations: The origin of their variability

Oscillation in calcium levels in the cytoplasm of individual cells has been observed experimentally to consist of a series of spikes and plateaux of differing amplitudes and inter-peak intervals. On the other hand, mathematical models based on known biochemical reaction kinetic behaviours predict, in the main, limit cycle behaviour. Chaotic solutions do not mimic the observed variability, and so another solution was sought by the introduction of filtered noise into some of the kinetic coefficients. Some of the variability can be predicted from this mechanism, but it is likely that other sources contribute to this as well.

Spontaneously active and InsP3-activated ion channels in cell nuclei from rat cerebellar Purkinje and granule neurones

Increases in Ca(2+) concentration in the nucleus of neurones modulate gene transcription and may be involved in activity-dependent long-term plasticity, apoptosis, and neurotoxicity. Little is currently known about the regulation of Ca(2+) in the nuclei of neurones. Investigation of neuronal nuclei is hampered by the cellular heterogeneity of the brain where neurones comprise no more than 10% of the cells. The situation is further complicated by large differences in properties of different neurones. Here we report a method for isolating nuclei from identified central neurones. We employed this technique to study nuclei from rat cerebellar Purkinje and granule neurones. Patch-clamp recording from the nuclear membrane of Purkinje neurones revealed numerous large-conductance channels selective for monovalent cations. The nuclear membrane of Purkinje neurones also contained multiple InsP(3)- activated ion channels localized exclusively in the inner nuclear membrane with their receptor loci facing the nucleoplasm. In contrast, the nuclear membrane of granule neurones contained only a small number of mainly anion channels. Nuclear InsP(3) receptors (InsP(3)Rs) were activated by InsP(3) with EC(50) = 0.67 microm and a Hill coefficient of 2.5. Ca(2+) exhibited a biphasic effect on the receptors elevating its activity at low concentrations and inhibiting it at micromolar concentrations. InsP(3) in saturating concentrations did not prevent the inhibitory effect of Ca(2+), but strongly increased InsP(3)R activity at resting Ca(2+) concentrations. These data are the first evidence for the presence of intranuclear sources of Ca(2+) in neurones. Ca(2+) release from the nuclear envelope may amplify Ca(2+) transients penetrating the nucleus from the cytoplasm or generate Ca(2+) transients in the nucleus independently of the cytoplasm.

The effect of higher order RNA processes on changing patterns of protein domain selection: A developmentally regulated transcriptome of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

The domain structure of proteins synthesized from a single gene can be remodeled during tissue development by activities at the RNA level of gene expression. The impact of higher order RNA processing on changing patterns of protein domain selection may be explored by systematically profiling single-gene transcriptomes. itpr1 is one of three mammalian genes encoding receptors for the second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3). Some phenotypic variations of InsP3 receptors have been attributed to hetero-oligomers of subunit isoforms from itpr1, itpr2, and itpr3. However, itpr1 itself is subject to alternative RNA splicing, with 7 sites of transcript variation, 6 within the ORF. We have identified 17 itpr1 subunit species expressed in mammalian brain in ensembles that change with tissue differentiation. Statistical analyses of populations comprising >1,300 full-length clones suggest that subunit variation arises from a variably biased stochastic splicing mechanism. Surprisingly, the protein domains of this highly allosteric receptor appear to be assembled in a partially randomized way, yielding stochastic arrays of subunit species that form tetrameric complexes in single cells. Nevertheless, functional expression studies of selected subunits confirm that splicing regulation is connected to phenotypic variation. The potential for itpr1 subunits to form hetero-tetramers in single cells suggests the expression of a developmentally regulated continuum of molecular forms that could display diverse properties, including incremental sensitivities to agonist activation and varying patterns of Ca2+ mobilization. These studies illuminate the extent to which itpr1 molecular phenotype is induced by higher order RNA processing.

Regulation of the cerebellar inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor by univalent cations

In the present study we investigated the effects of K and other univalent cations on [3H]InsP3 [[3H]Ins(1,4,5)P3] binding to sheep cerebellar microsomes. In equilibrium binding experiments performed over 4 s at pH 7.1 and 20 degrees C, the addition of K to the binding medium decreased the affinity and increased the total number of binding sites for InsP3 in a dose-dependent manner. At low InsP3 concentration (0.5 nM) these effects resulted in a biphasic dose-response curve, with maximal binding at about 75 mM K. In contrast, the dose-response curve calculated for InsP3 at the physiological concentration of 5 mM, was linear up to 200 mM K. Univalent inorganic cations stimulated [3H]InsP3 binding to various extents, with the following descending order of efficiency at 75 mM: Cs approximately Rb approximately K>Na>Li. The effect of K on InsP3R affinity was rapidly reversed upon cation removal. We were therefore also able to demonstrate that K increased Bmax (maximal specific binding) by pre-treating microsomes with K before measuring [3H]InsP3 binding in the absence of that cation. The increase in Bmax was reversible, but this reversal occurred less rapidly than the change in affinity. These results are consistent with a process by which K reversibly converted very low-affinity sites into sites with higher affinity, making them detectable in competitive binding experiments. They suggest that interconversion between these two affinity states constitutes the basis of a K-controlled regulatory mechanism for cerebellar InsP3R.

Novel regulation of calcium inhibition of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor calcium-release channel

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor (InsP3R), a Ca2+-release channel localized to the endoplasmic reticulum, plays a critical role in generating complex cytoplasmic Ca2+ signals in many cell types. Three InsP3R isoforms are expressed in different subcellular locations, at variable relative levels with heteromultimer formation in different cell types. A proposed reason for this diversity of InsP3R expression is that the isoforms are differentially inhibited by high cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i), possibly due to their different interactions with calmodulin. Here, we have investigated the possible roles of calmodulin and bath [Ca2+] in mediating high [Ca2+]i inhibition of InsP3R gating by studying single endogenous type 1 InsP3R channels through patch clamp electrophysiology of the outer membrane of isolated Xenopus oocyte nuclei. Neither high concentrations of a calmodulin antagonist nor overexpression of a dominant-negative Ca2+-insensitive mutant calmodulin affected inhibition of gating by high [Ca2+]i. However, a novel, calmodulin-independent regulation of [Ca2+]i inhibition of gating was revealed: whereas channels recorded from nuclei kept in the regular bathing solution with [Ca2+] approximately 400 nM were inhibited by 290 muM [Ca2+]i, exposure of the isolated nuclei to a bath solution with ultra-low [Ca2+] (<5 nM, for approximately 300 s) before the patch-clamp experiments reversibly relieved Ca2+ inhibition, with channel activities observed in [Ca2+]i up to 1.5 mM. Although InsP3 activates gating by relieving high [Ca2+]i inhibition, it was nevertheless still required to activate channels that lacked high [Ca2+]i inhibition. Our observations suggest that high [Ca2+]i inhibition of InsP3R channel gating is not regulated by calmodulin, whereas it can be disrupted by environmental conditions experienced by the channel, raising the possibility that presence or absence of high [Ca2+]i inhibition may not be an immutable property of different InsP3R isoforms. Furthermore, these observations support an allosteric model in which Ca2+ inhibition of the InsP3R is mediated by two Ca2+ binding sites, only one of which is sensitive to InsP3.

A comparison of three models of the inositol trisphosphate receptor

The inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptor (IPR) plays a crucial role in calcium dynamics in a wide range of cell types, and is often a central feature in quantitative models of calcium oscillations and waves. We compare three mathematical models of the IPR, fitting each of them to the same data set to determine ranges for the parameter values. Each of the fits indicates that fast activation of the receptor, followed by slow inactivation, is an important feature of the model, and also that the speed of inositol trisphosphate IP3 binding cannot necessarily be assumed to be faster than Ca2+ activation. In addition, the model which assumed saturating binding rates of Ca2+ to the IPR demonstrated the best fit. However, lack of convergence in the fitting procedure indicates that responses to step increases of Ca2+ and IP3 provide insufficient data to determine the parameters unambiguously in any of the models.

Control of aldosterone secretion: a model for convergence in cellular signaling pathways

Aldosterone secretion by glomerulosa cells is stimulated by angiotensin II (ANG II), extracellular K(+), corticotrophin, and several paracrine factors. Electrophysiological, fluorimetric, and molecular biological techniques have significantly clarified the molecular action of these stimuli. The steroidogenic effect of corticotrophin is mediated by adenylyl cyclase, whereas potassium activates voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels. ANG II, bound to AT(1) receptors, acts through the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3))-Ca(2+)/calmodulin system. All three types of IP(3) receptors are coexpressed, rendering a complex control of Ca(2+) release possible. Ca(2+) release is followed by both capacitative and voltage-activated Ca(2+) influx. ANG II inhibits the background K(+) channel TASK and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, and the ensuing depolarization activates T-type (Ca(v)3.2) Ca(2+) channels. Activation of protein kinase C by diacylglycerol (DAG) inhibits aldosterone production, whereas the arachidonate released from DAG in ANG II-stimulated cells is converted by lipoxygenase to 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, which may also induce Ca(2+) signaling. Feedback effects and cross-talk of signal-transducing pathways sensitize glomerulosa cells to low-intensity stimuli, such as physiological elevations of [K(+)] (< or =1 mM), ANG II, and ACTH. Ca(2+) signaling is also modified by cell swelling, as well as receptor desensitization, resensitization, and downregulation. Long-term regulation of glomerulosa cells involves cell growth and proliferation and induction of steroidogenic enzymes. Ca(2+), receptor, and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases and mitogen-activated kinases participate in these processes. Ca(2+)- and cAMP-dependent phosphorylation induce the transfer of the steroid precursor cholesterol from the cytoplasm to the inner mitochondrial membrane. Ca(2+) signaling, transferred into the mitochondria, stimulates the reduction of pyridine nucleotides.

Regulation of the Type 1 Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor by Phosphorylation at Tyrosine 353

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) plays an essential role in Ca2+ signaling during lymphocyte activation. Engagement of the T cell or B cell receptor by antigen initiates a signal transduction cascade that leads to tyrosine phosphorylation of IP3R by Src family nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases, including Fyn. However, the effect of tyrosine phosphorylation on the IP3R and subsequent Ca2+ release is poorly understood. We have identified tyrosine 353 (Tyr353) in the IP3-binding domain of type 1 IP3R (IP3R1) as a phosphorylation site for Fyn both in vitro and in vivo. We have developed a phosphoepitope-specific antibody and shown that IP3R1-Y353 becomes phosphorylated during T cell and B cell activation. Furthermore, tyrosine phosphorylation of IP3R1 increased IP3 binding at low IP3 concentrations (<10 nm). Using wild-type IP3R1 or an IP3R1-Y353F mutant that cannot be tyrosine phosphorylated at Tyr353 or expressed in IP3R-deficient DT40 B cells, we demonstrated that tyrosine phosphorylation of Tyr353 permits prolonged intracellular Ca2+ release during B cell activation. Taken together, these data suggest that one function of tyrosine phosphorylation of IP3R1-Y353 is to enhance Ca2+ signaling in lymphocytes by increasing the sensitivity of IP3R1 to activation by low levels of IP3.

Electroporation loading and photoactivation of caged InsP3: tools to investigate the relation between cellular ATP release in response to intracellular InsP3 elevation

Photolytic liberation of InsP(3) in single cells triggers cell-to-cell propagating calcium changes that are communicated by a gap junctional and a paracrine purinergic pathway involving InsP(3)-triggered ATP release. We investigated the relation between the InsP(3) stimulus and the resulting ATP release in ECV304 cells using UV photolysis of caged compounds and bioluminescent ATP measurements. Careful consideration of all steps, starting from caged InsP(3) loading into the cells by electroporation, up to photoliberation upon UV exposure, allowed to derive a dose-response relation that revealed a first part with a flattening ATP release response in the below 10microM InsP(3) concentration range and a second phase of steeply increasing ATP release in response to above 10microM InsP(3) stimulation. ATP release triggered by below 10microM InsP(3) concentrations attained a level in the order of 30% above baseline ATP release, while the steeply increasing response to high InsP(3) concentrations attained values in the order of 150% above baseline. Our data indicate the involvement of low affinity InsP(3) receptor sites in the pathway leading to triggered ATP release, with activation of these receptors causing the release of 1-2% of the total cellular ATP pool.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (type 1) phosphorylation and modulation by Cdc2

Calcium (Ca2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) controls numerous cellular functions including proliferation, and is regulated in part by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs). IP3Rs are ubiquitously expressed intracellular Ca2+-release channels found in many cell types. Although IP3R-mediated Ca2+ release has been implicated in cellular proliferation, the biochemical pathways that modulate intracellular Ca2+ release during cell cycle progression are not known. Sequence analysis of IP3R1 reveals the presence of two putative phosphorylation sites for cyclin-dependent kinases (cdks). In the present study, we show that cdc2/CyB, a critical regulator of eukaryotic cell cycle progression, phosphorylates IP3R1 in vitro and in vivo at both Ser(421) and Thr(799) and that this phosphorylation increases IP3 binding. Taken together, these results indicate that IP3R1 may be a specific target for cdc2/CyB during cell cycle progression.

Spontaneous channel activity of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor (InsP3R). Application of allosteric modeling to calcium and InsP3 regulation of InsP3R single-channel gating

The InsP3R Ca2+ release channel has a biphasic dependence on cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). InsP3 activates gating primarily by reducing the sensitivity of the channel to inhibition by high [Ca2+]i. To determine if relieving Ca2+ inhibition is sufficient for channel activation, we examined single-channel activities in low [Ca2+]i in the absence of InsP3, by patch clamping isolated Xenopus oocyte nuclei. For both endogenous Xenopus type 1 and recombinant rat type 3 InsP3R channels, spontaneous InsP3-independent channel activities with low open probability Po ( approximately 0.03) were observed in [Ca2+]i < 5 nM with the same frequency as in the presence of InsP3, whereas no activities were observed in 25 nM Ca2+. These results establish the half-maximal inhibitory [Ca2+]i of the channel to be 1.2-4.0 nM in the absence of InsP3, and demonstrate that the channel can be active when all of its ligand-binding sites (including InsP3) are unoccupied. In the simplest allosteric model that fits all observations in nuclear patch-clamp studies of [Ca2+]i and InsP3 regulation of steady-state channel gating behavior of types 1 and 3 InsP3R isoforms, including spontaneous InsP3-independent channel activities, the tetrameric channel can adopt six different conformations, the equilibria among which are controlled by two inhibitory and one activating Ca2+-binding and one InsP3-binding sites in a manner outlined in the Monod-Wyman-Changeux model. InsP3 binding activates gating by affecting the Ca2+ affinities of the high-affinity inhibitory sites in different conformations, transforming it into an activating site. Ca2+ inhibition of InsP3-liganded channels is mediated by an InsP3-independent low-affinity inhibitory site. The model also suggests that besides the ligand-regulated gating mechanism, the channel has a ligand-independent gating mechanism responsible for maximum channel Po being less than unity. The validity of this model was established by its successful quantitative prediction of channel behavior after it had been exposed to ultra-low bath [Ca2+].

Single channel function of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type-1 and -2 isoform domain-swap chimeras

The InsP3R proteins have three recognized domains, the InsP3-binding, regulatory/coupling, and channel domains (Mignery, G.A., and T.C. Südhof. 1990. EMBO J. 9:3893-3898). The InsP3 binding domain and the channel-forming domain are at opposite ends of the protein. Ligand regulation of the channel must involve communication between these different regions of the protein. This communication likely involves the interceding sequence (i.e., the regulatory/coupling domain). The single channel functional attributes of the full-length recombinant type-1, -2, and -3 InsP3R channels have been defined. Here, two type-1/type-2 InsP3R regulatory/coupling domain chimeras were created and their single channel function defined. One chimera (1-2-1) contained the type-2 regulatory/coupling domain in a type-1 backbone. The other chimera (2-1-2) contained the type-1 regulatory/coupling domain in a type-2 backbone. These chimeric proteins were expressed in COS cells, isolated, and then reconstituted in proteoliposomes. The proteoliposomes were incorporated into artificial planar lipid bilayers and the single-channel function of the chimeras defined. The chimeras had permeation properties like that of wild-type channels. The ligand regulatory properties of the chimeras were altered. The InsP3 and Ca2+ regulation had some unique features but also had features in common with wild-type channels. These results suggest that different independent structural determinants govern InsP3R permeation and ligand regulation. It also suggests that ligand regulation is a multideterminant process that involves several different regions of the protein. This study also demonstrates that a chimera approach can be applied to define InsP3R structure-function.

Nuclear and cytosolic calcium are regulated independently

Nuclear calcium (Ca(2+)) regulates a number of important cellular processes, including gene transcription, growth, and apoptosis. However, it is unclear whether Ca(2+) signaling is regulated differently in the nucleus and cytosol. To investigate this possibility, we examined subcellular mechanisms of Ca(2+) release in the HepG2 liver cell line. The type II isoform of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptor (InsP(3)R) was expressed to a similar extent in the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus, whereas the type III InsP(3)R was concentrated in the endoplasmic reticulum, and the type I isoform was not expressed. Ca(2+) signals induced by low InsP(3) concentrations started earlier or were larger in the nucleus than in the cytosol, indicating higher sensitivity of nuclear Ca(2+) stores for InsP(3). Nuclear InsP(3)R channels were active at lower InsP(3) concentrations than InsP(3)R from cytosol. Enriched expression of type II InsP(3)R in the nucleus results in greater sensitivity of the nucleus to InsP(3), thus providing a mechanism for independent regulation of Ca(2+)-dependent processes in this cellular compartment.

Integrated luminal and cytosolic aspects of the calcium release control

We propose here a unitary approach to the luminal and cytosolic control of calcium release. A minimal number of model elements that realistically describe different data sets are combined and adapted to correctly respond to various physiological constraints. We couple the kinetic properties of the inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptor/calcium channel with the dynamics of Ca(2+) and K(+) in both the lumen and cytosol, and by using a detailed simulation approach, we propose that local (on a radial distance approximately 2 micro m) calcium oscillations in permeabilized cells are driven by the slow inactivation of channels organized in discrete clusters composed of between six and 15 channels. Moreover, the character of these oscillations is found to be extremely sensitive to K(+), so that the cytosolic and luminal calcium variations are in or out of phase if the store at equilibrium has tens or hundreds micro M Ca(2+), respectively, depending on the K(+) gradient across the reticulum membrane. Different patterns of calcium signals can be reproduced through variation of only a few parameters.

The role of calmodulin for inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor function

Intracellular calcium release is a fundamental signaling mechanism in all eukaryotic cells. The ryanodine receptor (RyR) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) are intracellular calcium release channels. Both channels can be regulated by calcium and calmodulin (CaM). In this review we will first discuss the role of calcium as an activator and inactivator of the IP(3)R, concluding that calcium is the most important regulator of the IP(3)R. In the second part we will further focus on the role of CaM as modulator of the IP(3)R, using results of the voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels and the RyR as reference material. Here we conclude that despite the fact that different CaM-binding sites have been characterized, their function for the IP(3)R remains elusive. In the third part we will discuss the possible functional role of CaM in IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release (IICR) by direct and indirect mechanisms. Special attention will be given to the Ca(2+)-binding proteins (CaBPs) that were shown to activate the IP(3)R in the absence of IP(3).

IP3 receptors and their regulation by calmodulin and cytosolic Ca2+

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptors are tetrameric intracellular Ca(2+) channels, the opening of which is regulated by both IP(3) and Ca(2+). We suggest that all IP(3) receptors are biphasically regulated by cytosolic Ca(2+), which binds to two distinct sites. IP(3) promotes channel opening by controlling whether Ca(2+) binds to the stimulatory or inhibitory sites. The stimulatory site is probably an integral part of the receptor lying just upstream of the pore region. Inhibition of IP(3) receptors by Ca(2+) probably requires an accessory protein, which has not yet been unequivocally identified, but calmodulin is a prime candidate. We speculate that one lobe of calmodulin tethers it to the IP(3) receptor, while the other lobe can bind Ca(2+) and then interact with a second site on the receptor to cause inhibition.

Subcellular interactions between parallel fibre and climbing fibre signals in Purkinje cells predict sensitivity of classical conditioning to interstimulus interval

Classical conditioning of the nictitating membrane response requires a specific temporal interval between conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus, and produces an increase in Protein Kinase C (PKC) activation in Purkinje cells. To evaluate whether biochemical interactions within the Purkinje cell may explain the temporal sensitivity, a model of PKC activation by Ca2+, diacylglycerol (DAG), and arachidonic acid (AA) is developed. Ca2+ elevation is due to CF stimulation and IP3 induced Ca2+ release (IICR). DAG and IP3 result from PF stimulation, while AA results from phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Simulations predict increased PKC activation when PF stimulation precedes CF stimulation by 0.1 to 3 s. The sensitivity of IICR to the temporal relation between PF and CF stimulation, together with the buffering system of Purkinje cells, significantly contribute to the temporal sensitivity.

Functional screening of intracellular proteins in single cells and in patterned cell arrays using electroporation

A tool for detection and characterization of intracellular enzyme-substrate and receptor-ligand interactions inside the cytoplasm of single targeted cells or small confined groups of cells is presented. Fluorogenic enzyme substrates and receptor ligands were rapidly delivered by electroosmosis and internalized by electroporation in cells using an electrolyte-filled capillary (EFC) biased at a high voltage. Specifically, alkaline phosphatase and proteases were detected in single NG108-15 cells using fluorescein diphosphate and casein BODIPY FL, respectively. The intracellular 1,4,5-inositol triphosphate (IP3) and ryanodine receptors were detected after EFC introduction of the selective receptor agonists IP3 and cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cADPr), respectively. Receptor activation in both cases resulted in increased cytosolic concentrations of free calcium ions that were measured using the calcium-ion-selective probe, fluo-3. The effect of cADPr could be blocked by coadministration of the ryanodine receptor antagonist ruthenium red. Furthermore, electroporation of a plurality of cells grown in microwell structures (100 x 100 x 45 microm) molded in PDMS is demonstrated. The methods and systems described using an EFC for electroporation and delivery of protein markers, ligands, and substrates might be useful in high-throughput screening of intracellular targets, with applications in proteomics and phenotype profiling, as well as in drug discovery.

The high-affinity calcium[bond]calmodulin-binding site does not play a role in the modulation of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor function by calcium and calmodulin

Modulation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptors (InsP(3)R) by cytosolic calcium (Ca(2+)) plays an essential role in Ca(2+) signalling, but structural determinants and mechanisms responsible for the InsP(3)R regulation by Ca(2+) are poorly understood. In the present study, we expressed rat InsP(3)R type 1 (InsP(3)R1) in Spodoptera frugiperda cells using a baculovirus-expression system and reconstituted the recombinant InsP(3)R1 into planar lipid bilayers for functional analysis. We observed only minor effects of 0.5 mM of calmodulin (CaM) antagonist W-7 on the Ca(2+) dependence of InsP(3)R1. Based on a previous analysis of mouse InsP(3)R1 [Yamada, Miyawaki, Saito, Nakajima, Yamamoto-Hino, Ryo, Furuichi and Mikoshiba (1995) Biochem J. 308, 83-88], we generated the Trp(1577)-->Ala (W1577A) mutant of rat InsP(3)R1 which lacks the high-affinity Ca(2+)[bond]CaM-binding site. We found that the W1577A mutant displayed a bell-shaped Ca(2+) dependence similar to the wild-type InsP(3)R1 in planar lipid bilayers. Activation of B cell receptors resulted in identical Ca(2+) signals in intact DT40 cells lacking the endogenous InsP(3)R and transfected with the wild-type InsP(3)R1 or the W1577A mutant cDNA subcloned into a mammalian expression vector. In the planar lipid bilayer experiments, we showed that both wild-type InsP(3)R1 and W1577A mutant were equally sensitive to inhibition by exogenous CaM. From these results, we concluded that the interaction of CaM with the high-affinity Ca(2+)[bond]CaM-binding site in the coupling domain of the InsP(3)R1 does not play a direct role in biphasic modulation of InsP(3)R1 by cytosolic Ca(2+) or in InsP(3)R1 inhibition by CaM.

Src kinase induces calcium release in Xenopus egg extracts via PLCgamma and IP3-dependent mechanism

Mobilization of intracellular calcium is an indispensable step of fertilization-induced egg activation. Recently, this process has been shown to require the sequential activation of Src family tyrosine kinases, phospholipase Cgamma (PLCgamma), and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-dependent receptor of endoplasmic reticulum. In the present study, we made an attempt to recapitulate the early events of egg activation by stimulating Src kinase activity in the cell-free extracts of Xenopus eggs. We found that enhanced Src kinase activity can initiate calcium response of low magnitude in cytostatic factor (CSF)-arrested mitotic extracts without releasing them into interphase. The addition of catalytically active recombinant Src kinase, as well as the activation of endogenous Xenopus Src family kinase by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), increased total tyrosine phosphorylation, tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCgamma, and IP3 production in the extracts. The treatment with the Src family kinase-specific inhibitor, PP1, or PLC inhibitor, U73122, or IP3 receptor antagonist, heparin, prevented calcium release in the extracts. We conclude, therefore, that possible mechanism of Src/H2O2 action in the extracts might involve tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of PLCgamma, accompanied by the increase in IP3 content and subsequent calcium release from IP3-regulated calcium stores. These results also suggest that monitoring calcium signals induced in the Xenopus egg extracts by various components of signaling pathways may provide a particularly useful approach to investigating their role in the signal transduction.

A dynamic model of the type-2 inositol trisphosphate receptor

The dynamic properties of the inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptor are crucial for the control of intracellular Ca(2+), including the generation of Ca(2+) oscillations and waves. However, many models of this receptor do not agree with recent experimental data on the dynamic responses of the receptor. We construct a model of the IP(3) receptor and fit the model to dynamic and steady-state experimental data from type-2 IP(3) receptors. Our results indicate that, (i) Ca(2+) binds to the receptor using saturating, not mass-action, kinetics; (ii) Ca(2+) decreases the rate of IP(3) binding while simultaneously increasing the steady-state sensitivity of the receptor to IP(3); (iii) the rate of Ca(2+)-induced receptor activation increases with Ca(2+) and is faster than Ca(2+)-induced receptor inactivation; and (iv) IP(3) receptors are sequentially activated and inactivated by Ca(2+) even when IP(3) is bound. Our results emphasize that measurement of steady-state properties alone is insufficient to characterize the functional properties of the receptor.

Regulation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor isoforms by endogenous modulators

Three isoforms of the inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] receptor have been identified. Each receptor isoform has been functionally characterized using many different techniques. Although these receptor isoforms possess high homology, interesting differences in their Ca2+ dependence, Ins(1,4,5)P3 sensitivity and subcellular distribution exist, implying distinct cellular roles. Indeed, interplay among the isoforms might be necessary for a cell to control spatial and temporal aspects of cytosolic Ca2+ signals, which are important for many cellular processes. In this review isoform-specific functions, primarily at the single-channel level, will be highlighted and these properties will be correlated with Ca2+ signals in intact cells.

Stimulation by thimerosal of histamine-induced Ca(2+) release in intact HeLa cells seen with aequorin targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum

The oxidizing thiol reagent, thimerosal, has been shown to activate reversibly the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptor in several cell types. We have studied here the effects of thimerosal by monitoring the [Ca(2+)] inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of intact HeLa cells with targeted aequorin. We show that thimerosal produced little effects on the ER-Ca(2+)-pump and only slightly increased the ER-Ca(2+)-leak in intact cells. Instead, thimerosal increased the sensitivity to histamine of ER-Ca(2+)-release by about two orders of magnitude, made the response much more prolonged at saturating histamine concentrations and enhanced both cytosolic and mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] responses to histamine. Moreover, inhibition of ER-Ca(2+)release by cytosolic [Ca(2+)] microdomains was fully preserved and sensitive to BAPTA-loading, and histamine-induced Ca(2+) release remained quantal in the presence of both thimerosal and intracellular BAPTA. The effects of thimerosal were reversible in the presence of dithiotreitol, suggesting the possible presence of a physiological redox regulatory mechanism. However, in permeabilized cells thimerosal potentiated InsP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release but oxidized glutathione had no effect. In addition, thimerosal increased the [Ca(2+)](ER) steady-state level in permeabilized cells. Thimerosal partially inhibited also plasma membrane Ca(2+)extrusion and increased Ca(2+)(Mn(2+)) entry through the plasma membrane, both phenomena contributing to increase the steady-state cytosolic [Ca(2+)]. Thimerosal-induced Ca(2+) entry was additive to that induced by emptying of the ER, suggesting that store-operated Ca(2+) channels may not be involved. These results provide new insights on the mechanisms of activation and inactivation of InsP(3) receptors.

Control of IP(3)-mediated Ca2+ puffs in Xenopus laevis oocytes by the Ca2+-binding protein parvalbumin

1. Elementary events of Ca2+ release (Ca2+ puffs) can be elicited from discrete clusters of inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs) at low concentrations of IP(3). Ca(2+) puffs have rarely been observed unless elicited by either hormone treatment or introduction of IP(3) into the cell. However, cells appear to have sufficient concentrations of IP(3) (0.1-3.0 microM) to induce Ca2+ release under resting conditions. 2. Here, we investigated Ca2+ puff activity in non-stimulated Xenopus oocytes using confocal microscopy. The fluorescent Ca2+ dye indicators Calcium Green 1 and Oregon Green 488 BAPTA-2 were injected into oocytes to monitor basal Ca2+ activity. 3. In this preparation, injection or overexpression of parvalbumin, an EF-hand Ca(2+)-binding protein (CaBP), induced Ca2+ puffs in resting Xenopus oocytes. This activity was inhibited by heparin, an IP(3)R channel blocker, and by mutation of the Ca(2+)-binding sites in parvalbumin. 4. Ca2+ puff activity was also evoked by injection of low concentrations of the Ca2+ chelator EGTA, but not by calbindin D(28k), another member of the EF-hand CaBP superfamily. 5. BAPTA and the Ca2+ indicator dye Oregon Green 488 BAPTA-1 evoked Ca2+ puff activity, while the dextran conjugate of Oregon Green 488 BAPTA-1 did not. These data indicate that a Ca(2+) buffer must be mobile in order to increase Ca2+ puff activity. 6. Together, the data indicate that some IP(3)Rs spontaneously release Ca2+ under resting concentrations of IP(3). These elementary Ca2+ events appear to be below the level of detection of current imaging techniques. We suggest that parvalbumin evokes Ca2+ puffs by coordinating the activity of elementary IP(3)R channel openings. 7. We conclude that Ca2+ release can be evoked not only by hormone-induced increases in IP(3), but also by expression of mobile cytosolic CaBPs under resting concentrations of IP(3).

Regulation by Ca2+ and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) of single recombinant type 3 InsP3 receptor channels. Ca2+ activation uniquely distinguishes types 1 and 3 insp3 receptors

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptor (InsP3R) is an endoplasmic reticulum-localized Ca2+ -release channel that controls complex cytoplasmic Ca(2+) signaling in many cell types. At least three InsP3Rs encoded by different genes have been identified in mammalian cells, with different primary sequences, subcellular locations, variable ratios of expression, and heteromultimer formation. To examine regulation of channel gating of the type 3 isoform, recombinant rat type 3 InsP3R (r-InsP3R-3) was expressed in Xenopus oocytes, and single-channel recordings were obtained by patch-clamp electrophysiology of the outer nuclear membrane. Gating of the r-InsP3R-3 exhibited a biphasic dependence on cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). In the presence of 0.5 mM cytoplasmic free ATP, r-InsP3R-3 gating was inhibited by high [Ca2+]i with features similar to those of the endogenous Xenopus type 1 Ins3R (X-InsP3R-1). Ca2+ inhibition of channel gating had an inhibitory Hill coefficient of approximately 3 and half-maximal inhibiting [Ca2+]i (Kinh) = 39 microM under saturating (10 microM) cytoplasmic InsP3 concentrations ([InsP3]). At [InsP3] < 100 nM, the r-InsP3R-3 became more sensitive to Ca2+ inhibition, with the InsP(3) concentration dependence of Kinh described by a half-maximal [InsP3] of 55 nM and a Hill coefficient of approximately 4. InsP(3) activated the type 3 channel by tuning the efficacy of Ca2+ to inhibit it, by a mechanism similar to that observed for the type 1 isoform. In contrast, the r-InsP3R-3 channel was uniquely distinguished from the X-InsP3R-1 channel by its enhanced Ca2+ sensitivity of activation (half-maximal activating [Ca2+]i of 77 nM instead of 190 nM) and lack of cooperativity between Ca2+ activation sites (activating Hill coefficient of 1 instead of 2). These differences endow the InsP3R-3 with high gain InsP3-induced Ca2+ release and low gain Ca2+ -induced Ca2+ release properties complementary to those of InsP3R-1. Thus, distinct Ca2+ signals may be conferred by complementary Ca2+ activation properties of different InsP3R isoforms.

ATP regulation of recombinant type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor gating

A family of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor (InsP3R) Ca2+ release channels plays a central role in Ca2+ signaling in most cells, but functional correlates of isoform diversity are unclear. Patch-clamp electrophysiology of endogenous type 1 (X-InsP3R-1) and recombinant rat type 3 InsP3R (r-InsP3R-3) channels in the outer membrane of isolated Xenopus oocyte nuclei indicated that enhanced affinity and reduced cooperativity of Ca2+ activation sites of the InsP3-liganded type 3 channel distinguished the two isoforms. Because Ca2+ activation of type 1 channel was the target of regulation by cytoplasmic ATP free acid concentration ([ATP](i)), here we studied the effects of [ATP]i on the dependence of r-InsP(3)R-3 gating on cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i. As [ATP]i was increased from 0 to 0.5 mM, maximum r-InsP3R-3 channel open probability (Po) remained unchanged, whereas the half-maximal activating [Ca2+]i and activation Hill coefficient both decreased continuously, from 800 to 77 nM and from 1.6 to 1, respectively, and the half-maximal inhibitory [Ca2+]i was reduced from 115 to 39 microM. These effects were largely due to effects of ATP on the mean closed channel duration. Whereas the r-InsP3R-3 had a substantially higher Po than X-InsP3R-1 in activating [Ca2+]i (< 1 microM) and 0.5 mM ATP, the Ca2+ dependencies of channel gating of the two isoforms became remarkably similar in the absence of ATP. Our results suggest that ATP binding is responsible for conferring distinct gating properties on the two InsP3R channel isoforms. Possible molecular models to account for the distinct regulation by ATP of the Ca2+ activation properties of the two channel isoforms and the physiological implications of these results are discussed. Complex regulation by ATP of the types 1 and 3 InsP3R channel activities may enable cells to generate sophisticated patterns of Ca2+ signals with cytoplasmic ATP as one of the second messengers.

Sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic-reticulum-Ca2+-ATPase-mediated Ca2+ reuptake, and not Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor inactivation, prevents the activation of macroscopic Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ current in the presence of physiological Ca2+ buffer in rat basophilic leukaemia-1 cells

Whole-cell patch-clamp experiments were performed to examine the mechanism underlying the inability of intracellular Ins(1,4,5)P(3) to activate the Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) current (I(CRAC)) in rat basophilic leukaemia (RBL)-1 cells under conditions of weak cytoplasmic Ca(2+) buffering. Dialysis with Ins(1,4,5)P(3) in weak Ca(2+) buffer did not activate any macroscopic I(CRAC) even after precautions had been taken to minimize the extent of Ca(2+) entry during the experiment. Following intracellular dialysis with Ins(1,4,5)P(3) for >150 s in weak buffer, external application of the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic-reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) pump blocker thapsigargin activated I(CRAC), and the current developed much more quickly than when thapsigargin was applied in the absence of Ins(1,4,5)P(3). This indicates that the Ins(1,4,5)P(3) receptors had not inactivated much over this timecourse. When external Ca(2+) was replaced by Ba(2+), Ins(1,4,5)P(3) still failed to generate any detectable I(CRAC) even though Ba(2+) permeates CRAC channels and is not taken up into the intracellular Ca(2+) stores. In strong Ca(2+) buffer, I(CRAC) could be activated by muscarinic-receptor stimulation, provided protein kinase C (PKC) was blocked. In weak buffer, however, as with Ins(1,4,5)P(3), stimulation of these receptors with carbachol did not activate I(CRAC) even after inhibition of PKC. The inability of Ins(1,4,5)P(3) to activate macroscopic I(CRAC) in weak Ca(2+) buffer was not altered by inhibition of Ca(2+)-dependent phosphorylation/dephosphorylation reactions. Our results suggest that the inability of Ins(1,4,5)P(3) to activate I(CRAC) under conditions of weak intracellular Ca(2+) buffering is not due to strong inactivation of the Ins(1,4,5)P(3) receptors. Instead, a futile Ca(2+) cycle across the stores seems to be occurring and SERCA pumps resequester sufficient Ca(2+) to ensure that the threshold for activation of macroscopic I(CRAC) has not been exceeded.

Traumatic injury of cortical neurons causes changes in intracellular calcium stores and capacitative calcium influx

Using an in vitro traumatic injury model, we examined the effects of mechanical (stretch) injury on intracellular Ca2+ store-mediated signaling in cultured cortical neurons using fura-2. We previously found that elevation of [Ca2+](i) by the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, was abolished 15 min post-injury. In the current studies, pre-injury inhibition of phospholipase C with neomycin sulfate maintained Ca2+-replete stores 15 min post-injury, suggesting that the initial injury-induced store depletion may be due to increased inositol trisphosphate production. Thapsigargin-stimulated elevation of [Ca2+](i) returned with time after injury and was potentiated at 3 h. Stimulation with thapsigargin in Ca2+-free media revealed that the size of the Ca2+ stores was normal at 3 h post-injury. However, Ca2+ influx triggered by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores (capacitative Ca2+ influx) was enhanced 3 h after injury. Enhancement was blocked by inhibitors of cytosolic phospholipase A2 and cytochrome P450 epoxygenase. Since intracellular Ca2+ store-mediated signaling plays an important role in neuronal function, the observed changes may contribute to dysfunction produced by traumatic brain injury. Additionally, our results suggest that capacitative Ca2+ influx may be mediated by both conformational coupling and a diffusible messenger synthesized by the combined action of cytosolic PLA2 and P450.

Hippocampal mossy fiber activity evokes Ca2+ release in CA3 pyramidal neurons via a metabotropic glutamate receptor pathway

Mossy fiber activity can evoke Ca2+ release from internal stores in CA3 neurons, but the physiological conditions under which this occurs and the mechanisms underlying the release are not understood. Using rat hippocampal slices we report here that short trains of mossy fiber stimulation activate group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) on CA3 pyramidal neurons and elicit waves of Ca2+ release from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) sensitive internal stores that propagate from stratum lucidum to the soma and in some cases distally out the dendrites. Activation of mGluR1,5 receptors by an agonist trans-azetidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid (tADA) applied to stratum lucidum was also sufficient to induce waves of Ca2+ release. This release was blocked by internal heparin, but not by dantrolene, suggesting the involvement of IP3 rather than ryanodine receptors in not only the initial release but also in the maintenance of the propagating waves. Release could be facilitated by Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, which is consistent with the known Ca2+ sensitivity of IP3 receptors.These results provide insight into the mechanisms and conditions of Ca2+ release in CA3 neurons and demonstrate the powerful influence mossy fiber input can have on these neurons.

Intercellular Ca2+ wave propagation through gap-junctional Ca2+ diffusion: a theoretical study

Intercellular regenerative calcium waves in systems such as the liver and the blowfly salivary gland have been hypothesized to spread through calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) and gap-junctional calcium diffusion. A simple mathematical model of this mechanism is developed. It includes CICR and calcium removal from the cytoplasm, cytoplasmic and gap-junctional calcium diffusion, and calcium buffering. For a piecewise linear approximation of the calcium kinetics, expressions in terms of the cellular parameters are derived for 1) the condition for the propagation of intercellular waves, and 2) the characteristic time of the delay of a wave encountered at the gap junctions. Intercellular propagation relies on the local excitation of CICR in the perijunctional space by gap-junctional calcium influx. This mechanism is compatible with low effective calcium diffusivity, and necessitates that CICR can be excited in every cell along the path of a wave. The gap-junctional calcium permeability required for intercellular waves in the model falls in the range of reported gap-junctional permeability values. The concentration of diffusive cytoplasmic calcium buffers and the maximal rate of CICR, in the case of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor calcium release channels set by the IP(3) concentration, are shown to be further determinants of wave behavior.

Single-channel function of recombinant type 2 inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate receptor

A full-length rat type 2 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)) receptor cDNA construct was generated and expressed in COS-1 cells. Targeting of the full-length recombinant type 2 receptor protein to the endoplasmic reticulum was confirmed by immunocytochemistry using isoform specific affinity-purified antibodies and InsP(3)R-green fluorescent protein chimeras. The receptor protein was solubilized and incorporated into proteoliposomes for functional characterization. Single-channel recordings from proteoliposomes fused into planar lipid bilayers revealed that the recombinant protein formed InsP(3)- and Ca(2+)-sensitive ion channels. The unitary conductance ( approximately 250 pS; 220/20 mM Cs(+) as charge carrier), gating, InsP(3), and Ca(2+) sensitivities were similar to those previously described for the native type 2 InsP(3)R channel. However, the maximum open probability of the recombinant channel was slightly lower than that of its native counterpart. These data show that our full-length rat type 2 InsP(3)R cDNA construct encodes a protein that forms an ion channel with functional attributes like those of the native type 2 InsP(3)R channel. The possibility of measuring the function of single recombinant type 2 InsP(3)R is a significant step toward the use of molecular tools to define the determinants of isoform-specific InsP(3)R function and regulation.

Mitochondria shape hormonally induced cytoplasmic calcium oscillations and modulate exocytosis

Pituitary gonadotropes transduce hormonal input into cytoplasmic calcium ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) oscillations that drive rhythmic exocytosis of gonadotropins. Using Calcium Green-1 and rhod-2 as optical measures of cytoplasmic and mitochondrial free Ca(2+), we show that mitochondria sequester Ca(2+) and tune the frequency of [Ca(2+)](cyt) oscillations in rat gonadotropes. Mitochondria accumulated Ca(2+) rapidly and in phase with elevations of [Ca(2+)](cyt) after GnRH stimulation or membrane depolarization. Inhibiting mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake by the protonophore CCCP reduced the frequency of GnRH-induced [Ca(2+)](cyt) oscillations or, occasionally, stopped them. Much of the Ca(2+) that entered mitochondria is bound by intramitochondrial Ca(2+) buffering systems. The mitochondrial Ca(2+) binding ratio may be dynamic because [Ca(2+)](mit) appeared to reach a plateau as mitochondrial Ca(2+) accumulation continued. Entry of Ca(2+) into mitochondria was associated with a small drop in the mitochondrial membrane potential. Ca(2+) was extruded from mitochondria more slowly than it entered, and much of this efflux could be blocked by CGP-37157, a selective inhibitor of mitochondrial Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchange. Plasma membrane capacitance changes in response to depolarizing voltage trains were increased when CCCP was added, showing that mitochondria lower the local [Ca(2+)](cyt) near sites that trigger exocytosis. Thus, we demonstrate a central role for mitochondria in a significant physiological response.