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

Inositol trisphosphate receptor and ion channel models based on single-channel data

The inositol trisphosphate receptor (IPR) plays an important role in controlling the dynamics of intracellular Ca(2+). Single-channel patch-clamp recordings are a typical way to study these receptors as well as other ion channels. Methods for analyzing and using this type of data have been developed to fit Markov models of the receptor. The usual method of parameter fitting is based on maximum-likelihood techniques. However, Bayesian inference and Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques are becoming more popular. We describe the application of the Bayesian methods to real experimental single-channel data in three ion channels: the ryanodine receptor, the K(+) channel, and the IPR. One of the main aims of all three studies was that of model selection with different approaches taken. We also discuss the modeling implications for single-channel data that display different levels of channel activity within one recording.

Toward a predictive model of Ca2+ puffs

We investigate the key characteristics of Ca(2+) puffs in deterministic and stochastic frameworks that all incorporate the cellular morphology of IP(3) receptor channel clusters. In the first step, we numerically study the Ca(2+) liberation in a three-dimensional representation of a cluster environment with reaction-diffusion dynamics in both the cytosol and the lumen. These simulations reveal that Ca(2+) concentrations at a releasing cluster range from 80 to 170 microM and equilibrate almost instantaneously on the time scale of the release duration. These highly elevated Ca(2+) concentrations eliminate Ca(2+) oscillations in a deterministic model of an IP(3)R channel cluster at physiological parameter values as revealed by a linear stability analysis. The reason lies in the saturation of all feedback processes in the IP(3)R gating dynamics, so that only fluctuations can restore experimentally observed Ca(2+) oscillations. In this spirit, we derive master equations that allow us to analytically quantify the onset of Ca(2+) puffs and hence the stochastic time scale of intracellular Ca(2+) dynamics. Moving up the spatial scale, we suggest to formulate cellular dynamics in terms of waiting time distribution functions. This approach prevents the state space explosion that is typical for the description of cellular dynamics based on channel states and still contains information on molecular fluctuations. We illustrate this method by studying global Ca(2+) oscillations.

Biophysically based mathematical modeling of interstitial cells of Cajal slow wave activity generated from a discrete unitary potential basis

Spontaneously rhythmic pacemaker activity produced by interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) is the result of the entrainment of unitary potential depolarizations generated at intracellular sites termed pacemaker units. In this study, we present a mathematical modeling framework that quantitatively represents the transmembrane ion flows and intracellular Ca2+ dynamics from a single ICC operating over the physiological membrane potential range. The mathematical model presented here extends our recently developed biophysically based pacemaker unit modeling framework by including mechanisms necessary for coordinating unitary potential events, such as a T-Type Ca2+ current, Vm-dependent K+ currents, and global Ca2+ diffusion. Model simulations produce spontaneously rhythmic slow wave depolarizations with an amplitude of 65 mV at a frequency of 17.4 cpm. Our model predicts that activity at the spatial scale of the pacemaker unit is fundamental for ICC slow wave generation, and Ca2+ influx from activation of the T-Type Ca2+ current is required for unitary potential entrainment. These results suggest that intracellular Ca2+ levels, particularly in the region local to the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, significantly influence pacing frequency and synchronization of pacemaker unit discharge. Moreover, numerical investigations show that our ICC model is capable of qualitatively replicating a wide range of experimental observations.

A kinetic model of the inositol trisphosphate receptor based on single-channel data

In many cell types, the inositol trisphosphate receptor is one of the important components controlling intracellular calcium dynamics, and an understanding of this receptor is necessary for an understanding of calcium oscillations and waves. Based on single-channel data from the type-I inositol trisphosphate receptor, and using a Markov chain Monte Carlo approach, we show that the most complex time-dependent model that can be unambiguously determined from steady-state data is one with three closed states and one open state, and we determine how the rate constants depend on calcium. Because the transitions between these states are complex functions of calcium concentration, each model state must correspond to a group of physical states. We fit two different topologies and find that both models predict that the main effect of [Ca(2+)] is to modulate the probability that the receptor is in a state that is able to open, rather than to modulate the transition rate to the open state.

Protein-tyrosine phosphatase-alpha and Src functionally link focal adhesions to the endoplasmic reticulum to mediate interleukin-1-induced Ca2+ signaling

Calcium (Ca2+) signaling by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) is dependent on focal adhesions, which contain diverse structural and signaling proteins including protein phosphatases. We examined here the role of protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) alpha in regulating IL-1-induced Ca2+ signaling in fibroblasts. IL-1 promoted recruitment of PTPalpha to focal adhesions and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) fractions, as well as tyrosine phosphorylation of the ER Ca2+ release channel IP3R. In response to IL-1, catalytically active PTPalpha was required for Ca2+ release from the ER, Src-dependent phosphorylation of IP3R1 and accumulation of IP3R1 in focal adhesions. In pulldown assays and immunoprecipitations PTPalpha was required for the association of PTPalpha with IP3R1 and c-Src, and this association was increased by IL-1. Collectively, these data indicate that PTPalpha acts as an adaptor to mediate functional links between focal adhesions and the ER that enable IL-1-induced Ca2+ signaling.

Neural regulation of lacrimal gland secretory processes: relevance in dry eye diseases

The lacrimal gland is the major contributor to the aqueous layer of the tear film which consists of water, electrolytes and proteins. The amount and composition of this layer is critical for the health, maintenance, and protection of the cells of the cornea and conjunctiva (the ocular surface). Small changes in the concentration of tear electrolytes have been correlated with dry eye syndrome. While the mechanisms of secretion of water, electrolytes and proteins from the lacrimal gland differ, all three are under tight neural control. This allows for a rapid response to meet the needs of the cells of the ocular surface in response to environmental conditions. The neural response consists of the activation of the afferent sensory nerves in the cornea and conjunctiva to stimulate efferent parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves that innervate the lacrimal gland. Neurotransmitters are released from the stimulated parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves that cause secretion of water, electrolytes, and proteins from the lacrimal gland and onto the ocular surface. This review focuses on the neural regulation of lacrimal gland secretion under normal and dry eye conditions.

IP(3) receptor subtype-dependent activation of store-operated calcium entry through I(CRAC)

The store-operated, calcium release-activated calcium current I(CRAC) is activated by the depletion of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3))-sensitive stores. The significantly different dose-response relationships of IP(3)-mediated Ca(2+) release and CRAC channel activation indicate that I(CRAC) is activated by a functionally, and possibly physically, distinct sub-compartment of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the so-called CRAC store. Vertebrate genomes contain three IP(3) receptor (IP(3)R) genes and most cells express at least two subtypes, but the functional relevance of various IP(3)R subtypes with respect to store-operated Ca(2+) entry is completely unknown. We here demonstrate in avian B cells (chicken DT40) that IP(3)R type II and type III participate in IP(3)-induced activation of I(CRAC), but IP(3)R type I does not. This suggests that the expression pattern of IP(3)R contributes to the formation of specialized CRAC stores in B cells.

Markov chain Monte Carlo fitting of single-channel data from inositol trisphosphate receptors

In many cell types, the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IPR) is one of the important components that control intracellular calcium dynamics, and an understanding of this receptor (which is also a calcium channel) is necessary for an understanding of calcium oscillations and waves. Recent advances in experimental techniques now allow for the measurement of single-channel activity of the IPR in conditions similar to its native environment, and these data can be used to determine the rate constants in Markov models of the IPR. We illustrate a parameter estimation method based on Markov chain Monte Carlo, which can be used to fit directly to single-channel data, and determining, as an intrinsic part of the fit, the times at which the IPR is opening and closing. We show, using simulated data, the most complex Markov model that can be unambiguously determined from steady-state data and show that non-steady-state data is required to determine more complex models.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release by reversible phosphorylation and dephosphorylation

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is a universal intracellular Ca2+-release channel. It is activated after cell stimulation and plays a crucial role in the initiation and propagation of the complex spatio-temporal Ca2+ signals that control cellular processes as different as fertilization, cell division, cell migration, differentiation, metabolism, muscle contraction, secretion, neuronal processing, and ultimately cell death. To achieve these various functions, often in a single cell, exquisite control of the Ca2+ release is needed. This review aims to highlight how protein kinases and protein phosphatases can interact with the IP3R or with associated proteins and so provide a large potential for fine tuning the Ca2+-release activity and for creating efficient Ca2+ signals in subcellular microdomains.

Regulation of single inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor channel activity by protein kinase A phosphorylation

Phosphorylation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP(3)R) by PKA represents an important, common route for regulation of Ca(2+) release. Following phosphorylation of the S2 splice variant of InsP(3)R-1 (S2-InsP-1), Ca(2+) release is markedly potentiated. In this study we utilize the plasma membrane (PM) expression of InsP(3)R-1 and phosphorylation state mutant InsP(3)R-1 to study how this regulation occurs at the single InsP(3)R-1 channel level. DT40-3KO cells stably expressing rat S2- InsP(3)R-1 were generated and studied in the whole-cell mode of the patch clamp technique. At hyperpolarized holding potentials, small numbers of unitary currents (average approximately 1.7 per cell) were observed which were dependent on InsP(3) and the presence of functional InsP(3)R-1, and regulated by both cytoplasmic Ca(2+) and ATP. Raising cAMP markedly enhanced the open probability (P(o)) of the InsP(3)R-1 and induced bursting activity, characterized by extended periods of rapid channel openings and subsequent prolonged refractory periods. The activity, as measured by the P(o) of the channel, of a non-phosphorylatable InsP(3)R-1 construct (Ser1589Ala/Ser1755Ala InsP(3)R-1) was markedly less than wild-type (WT) InsP(3)R-1 and right shifted some approximately 15-fold when the concentration dependency was compared to a phosphomimetic construct (Ser1589Glu/Ser1755Glu InsP(3)R-1). No change in conductance of the channel was observed. This shift in apparent InsP(3) sensitivity occurred without a change in InsP(3) binding or Ca(2+) dependency of activation or inactivation. Biophysical analysis indicated that channel activity can be described by three states: an open state, a long lived closed state which manifests itself as long interburst intervals, and a short-lived closed state. Bursting activity occurs as the channel shuttles rapidly between the open and short-lived closed state. The predominant effect of InsP(3)R-1 phosphorylation is to increase the likelihood of extended bursting activity and thus markedly augment Ca(2+) release. These analyses provide insight into the mechanism responsible for augmenting InsP(3)R-1 channel activity following phosphorylation and moreover should be generally useful for further detailed investigation of the biophysical properties of InsP(3)R.

A biophysically based mathematical model of unitary potential activity in interstitial cells of Cajal

Unitary potential (UP) depolarizations are the basic intracellular events responsible for pacemaker activity in interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs), and are generated at intracellular sites termed "pacemaker units". In this study, we present a mathematical model of the transmembrane ion flows and intracellular Ca(2+) dynamics from a single ICC pacemaker unit acting at near-resting membrane potential. This model quantitatively formalizes the framework of a novel ICC pacemaking mechanism that has recently been proposed. Model simulations produce spontaneously rhythmic UP depolarizations with an amplitude of approximately 3 mV at a frequency of 0.05 Hz. The model predicts that the main inward currents, carried by a Ca(2+)-inhibited nonselective cation conductance, are activated by depletion of sub-plasma-membrane [Ca(2+)] caused by sarcoendoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase Ca(2+) sequestration. Furthermore, pacemaker activity predicted by our model persists under simulated voltage clamp and is independent of [IP(3)] oscillations. The model presented here provides a basis to quantitatively analyze UP depolarizations and the biophysical mechanisms underlying their production.

Cholinergic-mediated IP3-receptor activation induces long-lasting synaptic enhancement in CA1 pyramidal neurons

Cholinergic-glutamatergic interactions influence forms of synaptic plasticity that are thought to mediate memory and learning. We tested in vitro the induction of long-lasting synaptic enhancement at Schaffer collaterals by acetylcholine (ACh) at the apical dendrite of CA1 pyramidal neurons and in vivo by stimulation of cholinergic afferents. In vitro ACh induced a Ca2+ wave and synaptic enhancement mediated by insertion of AMPA receptors in spines. Activation of muscarinic ACh receptors (mAChRs) and Ca2+ release from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-sensitive stores were required for this synaptic enhancement that was insensitive to blockade of NMDA receptors and also triggered by IP3 uncaging. Activation of cholinergic afferents in vivo induced an analogous atropine-sensitive synaptic enhancement. We describe a novel form of synaptic enhancement (LTP(IP3)) that is induced in vitro and in vivo by activation of mAChRs. We conclude that Ca2+ released from postsynaptic endoplasmic reticulum stores is the critical event in the induction of this unique form of long-lasting synaptic enhancement.

ATP and adenosine trigger the interaction of plasma membrane IP3 receptors with protein kinase A in oviductal ciliated cells

We have demonstrated that adenosine did not produce any change of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in oviductal ciliated cells; however, it increased the ATP-induced Ca2+ influx through the activation of protein kinase A (PKA). Uncaging of IP3 and cAMP triggered a larger Ca2+ influx than did IP3 alone. Furthermore, the IP3 effect was abolished by Xestospongin C, an IP3 receptor blocker. Whole-cell recordings demonstrated the presence of an ATP-induced Ca2+ current, and the addition of adenosine increased the peak of this current. This effect was not observed in the presence of H-89, a PKA inhibitor. Using excised macro-patches of plasma membrane, IP3 generated a current, which was higher in the presence of the catalytic PKA subunit and this current was blocked by Xestospongin C. We show here that activation of plasma membrane IP3 receptors directly triggers Ca2+ influx in response to ATP and that these receptors are modulated by adenosine-activated PKA.

Mode switching is the major mechanism of ligand regulation of InsP3 receptor calcium release channels

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP₃) receptor (InsP₃R) plays a critical role in generation of complex Ca²⁺ signals in many cell types. In patch clamp recordings of isolated nuclei from insect Sf9 cells, InsP₃R channels were consistently detected with regulation by cytoplasmic InsP₃ and free Ca²⁺ concentrations ([Ca²⁺]_i) very similar to that observed for vertebrate InsP₃R. Long channel activity durations of the Sf9-InsP₃R have now enabled identification of a novel aspect of InsP₃R gating: modal gating. Using a novel algorithm to analyze channel modal gating kinetics, InsP₃R gating can be separated into three distinct modes: a low activity mode, a fast kinetic mode, and a burst mode with channel open probability (P_o) within each mode of 0.007 ± 0.002, 0.24 ± 0.03, and 0.85 ± 0.02, respectively. Channels reside in each mode for long periods (tens of opening and closing events), and transitions between modes can be discerned with high resolution (within two channel opening and closing events). Remarkably, regulation of channel gating by [Ca²⁺]_i and [InsP₃] does not substantially alter channel P_o within a mode. Instead, [Ca²⁺]_i and [InsP₃] affect overall channel P_o primarily by changing the relative probability of the channel being in each mode, especially the high and low P_o modes. This novel observation therefore reveals modal switching as the major mechanism of physiological regulation of InsP₃R channel activity, with implications for the kinetics of Ca²⁺ release events in cells.

The plasma membrane Na+/Ca2+ exchange inhibitor KB-R7943 is also a potent inhibitor of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The thiourea derivative KB-R7943, originally developed as inhibitor of the plasma membrane Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, has been shown to protect against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. We have studied here its effects on mitochondrial Ca(2+) fluxes.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

[Ca(2+)] in cytosol, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and mitochondrial membrane potential were monitored using both luminescent (targeted aequorins) and fluorescent (fura-2, tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester) probes in HeLa cells.

KEY RESULTS

KB-R7943 was also a potent inhibitor of the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter (MCU). In permeabilized HeLa cells, KB-R7943 inhibited mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake with a Ki of 5.5+/-1.3 microM (mean+/-S.D.). In intact cells, 10 microM KB-R7943 reduced by 80% the mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] peak induced by histamine. KB-R7943 did not modify the mitochondrial membrane potential and had no effect on the mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger. KB-R7943 inhibited histamine-induced ER-Ca(2+) release in intact cells, but not in cells loaded with a Ca(2+)-chelator to damp cytosolic [Ca(2+)] changes. Therefore, inhibition of ER-Ca(2+)-release by KB-R7943 was probably due to the increased feedback Ca(2+)-inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors after MCU block. This mechanism also explains why KB-R7943 reversibly blocked histamine-induced cytosolic [Ca(2+)] oscillations in the same range of concentrations required to inhibit MCU.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Inhibition of MCU by KB-R7943 may contribute to its cardioprotective activity by preventing mitochondrial Ca(2+)-overload during ischemia-reperfusion. In addition, the effects of KB-R7943 on Ca(2+) homeostasis provide new evidence for the role of mitochondria modulating Ca(2+)-release and regenerative Ca(2+)-oscillations. Search for permeable and selective MCU inhibitors may yield useful pharmacological tools in the future.

Modeling P2Y receptor-Ca2+ response coupling in taste cells

Here we elaborated an analytical approach for the simulation of dose-response curves mediated by cellular receptors coupled to PLC and Ca(2+) mobilization. Based on a mathematical model of purinergic Ca(2+) signaling in taste cells, the analysis of taste cells responsiveness to nucleotides was carried out. Consistently with the expression of P2Y(2) and P2Y(4) receptors in taste cells, saturating ATP and UTP equipotently mobilized intracellular Ca(2+). Cellular responses versus concentration of BzATP, a P2Y(2) agonist and a P2Y(4) antagonist, implicated high and low affinity BzATP receptors. Suramin modified the BzATP dose-response curve in a manner that suggested the low affinity receptor to be weakly sensitive to this P2Y antagonist. Given that solely P2Y(2) and P2Y(11) are BzATP receptors, their high sensitivity to suramin is poorly consistent with the suramin effects on BzATP responses. We simulated a variety of dose-response curves for different P2Y receptor sets and found that the appropriate fit of the overall pharmacological data was achievable only with dimeric receptors modeled as P2Y(2)/P2Y(4) homo- and heterodimers. Our computations and analytical analysis of experimental dose-response curves raise the possibility that ATP responsiveness of mouse taste cells is mediated by P2Y(2) and P2Y(4) receptors operative mostly in the dimeric form.

Inositol trisphosphate receptor Ca2+ release channels

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptors (InsP3Rs) are a family of Ca2+ release channels localized predominately in the endoplasmic reticulum of all cell types. They function to release Ca2+ into the cytoplasm in response to InsP3 produced by diverse stimuli, generating complex local and global Ca2+ signals that regulate numerous cell physiological processes ranging from gene transcription to secretion to learning and memory. The InsP3R is a calcium-selective cation channel whose gating is regulated not only by InsP3, but by other ligands as well, in particular cytoplasmic Ca2+. Over the last decade, detailed quantitative studies of InsP3R channel function and its regulation by ligands and interacting proteins have provided new insights into a remarkable richness of channel regulation and of the structural aspects that underlie signal transduction and permeation. Here, we focus on these developments and review and synthesize the literature regarding the structure and single-channel properties of the InsP3R.

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.

Ca2+-sparks constitute elementary building blocks for global Ca2+-signals in myocytes of retinal arterioles

Spontaneous Ca²⁺-events were imaged in myocytes within intact retinal arterioles (diameter <40 μm) freshly isolated from rat eyes. Ca²⁺-sparks were often observed to spread across the width of these small cells, and could summate to produce prolonged Ca²⁺-oscillations and contraction. Application of cyclopiazonic acid (20 μM) transiently increased spark frequency and oscillation amplitude, but inhibited both sparks and oscillations within 60 s. Both ryanodine (100 μM) and tetracaine (100 μM) reduced the frequency of sparks and oscillations, while tetracaine also reduced oscillation amplitude. None of these interventions affected spark amplitude. Nifedipine, which blocks store filling independently of any action on L-type Ca²⁺-channels in these cells, reduced the frequency and amplitude of both sparks and oscillations. Removal of external [Ca²⁺] (1 mM EGTA) also reduced the frequency of sparks and oscillations but these reductions were slower in onset than those in the presence of tetracaine or cyclopiazonic acid. Cyclopiazonic acid, nifedipine and low external [Ca²⁺] all reduced SR loading, as indicated by the amplitude of caffeine evoked Ca²⁺-transients. This study demonstrates for the first time that spontaneous Ca²⁺-events in small arterioles of the eye result from activation of ryanodine receptors in the SR and suggests that this activation is not tightly coupled to Ca²⁺-influx. The data also supports a model in which Ca²⁺-sparks act as building blocks for more prolonged, global Ca²⁺-signals.

Knock-out mice reveal the contributions of P2Y and P2X receptors to nucleotide-induced Ca2+ signaling in macrophages

Immune cell function is modulated by changes in extracellular nucleotide levels. Here we used reverse transcription-PCR analyses, single cell Ca2+ imaging, and knock-out mice to define the receptors mediating nucleotide-induced Ca2+ signaling in resident peritoneal macrophages. In Ca2+-free buffer, the potent (K0.5<1 microm) stimulatory effect of UTP (or ATP) on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ release was abolished in cells isolated from P2Y2/P2Y4 double knock-out mice. Moreover, P2Y4(0/-), but not P2Y2-/-, macrophages responded to UTP. In P2Y2-/- macrophages, we could elicit Ca2+ responses to "pure" P2X receptor activation by applying ATP in buffer containing Ca2+. Purified UDP and ADP were ineffective agonists, although modest UDP-induced Ca2+ responses could be elicited in macrophages after "activation" with lipopolysaccharide and interferon-gamma. Notably, in Ca2+-free buffer, UTP-induced Ca2+ transients decayed within 1 min, and there was no response to repeated agonist challenge. Measurements of ER [Ca2+] with mag-fluo-4 showed that ER Ca2+ stores were depleted under these conditions. When extracellular Ca2+ was available, ER Ca2+ stores refilled, but Ca2+ increased to only approximately 40% of the initial value upon repeated UTP challenge. This apparent receptor desensitization persisted in GRK2+/- and GRK6-/- macrophages and after inhibition of candidate kinases protein kinase C and calmodulin-dependent kinase II. Initial challenge with UTP also reduced Ca2+ mobilization by complement component C5a (and vice versa). In conclusion, homologous receptor desensitization is not the major mechanism that rapidly dampens Ca2+ signaling mediated by P2Y2, the sole Gq-coupled receptor for UTP or ATP in macrophages. UDP responsiveness (P2Y6 receptor expression) increases following macrophage activation.

Modulation of calcium wave propagation in the dendrites and to the soma of rat hippocampal pyramidal neurons

Repetitive synaptic stimulation in the stratum radiatum (SR) evokes large amplitude Ca2+ waves in the thick apical dendrites of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. These waves are initiated by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), which mobilize inositol-1,4,5-trisphospate (IP3) and release Ca2+ from intracellular stores. We explored mechanisms that modulate the spatial properties of these waves. Higher stimulus current evoked waves of increasing spatial extent. Most waves did not propagate through the soma; the majority stopped close to the junction of the soma and apical dendrite. Pairing strong stimulation with one electrode and subthreshold stimulation with another (associative activation) extended the waves distally but failed to extend waves into the cell body. Pairing synaptic stimulation with backpropagating action potentials enhanced the likelihood of wave generation but did not extend the waves to the somatic region. Priming the stores with Ca2+ entry through voltage dependent channels modulated wave properties but did not extend them past the dendrites. These results are consistent with propagation failing due to the dilution of synaptically generated IP3 as it diffuses into the large volume of the soma (impedance mismatch). Synaptically activating waves in the presence of low concentrations of carbachol, which probably increased the tonic level of IP3 throughout the cell, enhanced the extent of propagation and generated waves that invaded the soma, as long as low-affinity indicators were used to detect the [Ca2+]i changes. Consistent with this explanation direct injection of IP3 into the soma promoted wave propagation into this region. Ca2+ waves that propagated through the cell body were interesting because they did not fill the volume of the soma, but passed through the centre, often with large amplitude. These waves may be particularly effective in activating gene expression and protein synthesis.

Models of IP3 and Ca2+ oscillations: frequency encoding and identification of underlying feedbacks

Hormones that act through the calcium-releasing messenger, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), cause intracellular calcium oscillations, which have been ascribed to calcium feedbacks on the IP3 receptor. Recent studies have shown that IP3 levels oscillate together with the cytoplasmic calcium concentration. To investigate the functional significance of this phenomenon, we have developed mathematical models of the interaction of both second messengers. The models account for both positive and negative feedbacks of calcium on IP3 metabolism, mediated by calcium activation of phospholipase C and IP3 3-kinase, respectively. The coupled IP3 and calcium oscillations have a greatly expanded frequency range compared to calcium fluctuations obtained with clamped IP3. Therefore the feedbacks can be physiologically important in supporting the efficient frequency encoding of hormone concentration observed in many cell types. This action of the feedbacks depends on the turnover rate of IP3. To shape the oscillations, positive feedback requires fast IP3 turnover, whereas negative feedback requires slow IP3 turnover. The ectopic expression of an IP3 binding protein has been used to decrease the rate of IP3 turnover experimentally, resulting in a dose-dependent slowing and eventual quenching of the Ca2+ oscillations. These results are consistent with a model based on positive feedback of Ca2+ on IP3 production.

Graded recruitment and inactivation of single InsP3 receptor Ca2+-release channels: implications for quantal [corrected] Ca2+release

Modulation of cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) by receptor-mediated generation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) and activation of its receptor (InsP3R), a Ca2+-release channel in the endoplasmic reticulum, is a ubiquitous signalling mechanism. A fundamental aspect of InsP3-mediated signalling is the graded release of Ca2+ in response to incremental levels of stimuli. Ca2+ release has a transient fast phase, whose rate is proportional to [InsP3], followed by a much slower one even in constant [InsP3]. Many schemes have been proposed to account for quantal Ca2+ release, including the presence of heterogeneous channels and Ca2+ stores with various mechanisms of release termination. Here, we demonstrate that mechanisms intrinsic to the single InsP3R channel can account for quantal Ca2+ release. Patch-clamp electrophysiology of isolated insect Sf9 cell nuclei revealed a consistent and high probability of detecting functional endogenous InsP3R channels, enabling InsP3-induced channel inactivation to be identified as an inevitable consequence of activation, and allowing the average number of activated channels in the membrane patch (N(A)) to be accurately quantified. InsP3-activated channels invariably inactivated, with average duration of channel activity reduced by high [Ca2+]i and suboptimal [InsP3]. Unexpectedly, N(A) was found to be a graded function of both [Ca2+]i and [InsP3]. A qualitative model involving Ca2+-induced InsP3R sequestration and inactivation can account for these observations. These results suggest that apparent heterogeneous ligand sensitivity can be generated in a homogeneous population of InsP3R channels, providing a mechanism for graded Ca2+ release that is intrinsic to the InsP3R Ca2+ release channel itself.

The pilus and porin of Neisseria gonorrhoeae cooperatively induce Ca2+ transients in infected epithelial cells

Purified pili and porin from Neisseria quickly mobilize calcium (Ca(2+)) stores in monocytes and epithelial cells, ultimately influencing host cell viability as well as bacterial intracellular survival. Here, we examined the Ca(2+) transients induced in human epithelial cells during infection by live, piliated N. gonorrhoeae. Porin induced an influx of Ca(2+) from the extracellular medium less than 60 s post infection. The porin-induced transient is followed by a pilus-induced release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. The timing of these events is similar to that observed using purified proteins. Interestingly, the porin-induced Ca(2+) flux is required for the pilus-induced transient, indicating that the pilus-induced Ca(2+) release is, itself, Ca(2+) dependent. Several lines of evidence indicate that porin is present on pili. Moreover, pilus retraction strongly influences the porin- and pilus-induced Ca(2+) fluxes. These and other results strongly suggest that the pilus and porin cooperate to modulate calcium signalling in epithelial cells, and propose a model to explain how N. gonorrhoeae triggers Ca(2+) transients in the initial stages of pilus-mediated attachment.

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.

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

The inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R) are the intracellular calcium (Ca2+) release channels that play a key role in Ca2+ signaling in cells. Three InsP3R isoforms-InsP3R type 1 (InsP3R1), InsP3R type 2 (InsP3R2), and InsP3R type 3 (InsP3R3) are expressed in mammals. A single InsP3R isoform is expressed in Drosophila melanogaster (DmInsP3R) and Caenorhabditis elegans (CeInsP3R). The progress made during last decade towards understanding the function and the properties of the InsP3R is briefly reviewed in this chapter. The main emphasis is on studies that revealed structural determinants responsible for the ligand recognition by the InsP3R, ion permeability of the InsP3R, modulation of the InsP3R by cytosolic Ca2+, ATP and PKA phosphorylation and on the recently identified InsP3R-binding partners. The main focus is on the InsP3R1, but the recent information about properties of other InsP3R isoforms is also discussed.

The Pro335 --> Leu polymorphism of type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor found in mouse inbred lines results in functional change

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) is an intracellular Ca2+ channel involved in various cellular signaling. Type 3 IP3R (IP3R3) retains ligand-gated Ca2+ channel properties differing from other subtypes in terms of IP3-binding affinity and regulation of its channel activity by effector molecules. In this study, we found the natural Pro335 --> Leu polymorphism of mouse IP3R3 between BALB/c and C57BL/6J. We investigated the functional differences between Pro335IP3R3 and Leu335IP3R3 with purified receptors reconstituted into proteoliposomes as well as with soluble ligand binding domains. Pro335IP3R3 exhibited significantly higher IP3-binding affinity and IP3-induced Ca2+ release than those of Leu335IP3R3 in both forms of the receptor. Moreover, the polymorphic change caused differences in the effect of external Ca2+ on IP3-induced Ca2+ release. The Pro335 --> Leu substitution alters the conformation of soluble ligand binding domain as revealed by intrinsic fluorescence and circular dichroism spectra with or without Ca2+. The results indicate that the polymorphism of IP3R3 causes changes in receptor function, presumably affecting intracellular Ca2+ signaling.

Dual sensitivity of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic Ca2+-ATPase to cytosolic and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ as a mechanism of modulating cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations

The effects of ER (endoplasmic reticulum) Ca2+ on cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations in pancreatic acinar cells were investigated using mathematical models of the Ca2+ oscillations. We first examined the mathematical model of SERCA (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase) to reproduce the highly co-operative inhibitory effect of Ca2+ in the ER lumen on ER Ca2+ uptake in the acinar cells. The model predicts that luminal Ca2+ would most probably inhibit the conversion of the conformation state with luminal Ca2+-binding sites (E2) into the conformation state with cytoplasmic Ca2+-binding sites (E1). The SERCA model derived from this prediction showed dose-response relationships to cytosolic and luminal Ca2+ concentrations that were consistent with the experimental data from the acinar cells. According to a mathematical model of cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations based on the modified SERCA model, a small decrease in the concentration of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ (approx. 20% of the total) was sufficient to abolish the oscillations. When a single type of IP3R (IP3 receptor) was included in the model, store depletion decreased the spike frequency. However, the frequency became less sensitive to store depletion when we added another type of IP3R with higher sensitivity to the concentration of free Ca2+ in the cytosol. Bifurcation analysis of the mathematical model showed that the loss of Ca2+ from the ER lumen decreased the sensitivity of cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations to IP3 [Ins(1,4,5)P3]. The addition of a high-affinity IP3R did not alter this property, but significantly decreased the sensitivity of the spike frequency to IP3. Our mathematical model demonstrates how luminal Ca2+, through its effect on Ca2+ uptake, can control cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations.

Reactive clusters on a membrane

We investigate the reaction dynamics of diffusive molecules with immobile binding partners. The fixed reactants build clusters that are comprised of just a few tens of molecules, which leads to small cluster sizes. These molecules participate in the reaction only if they are activated. The dynamics of activation is mapped to a time-dependent size of an active region within the cluster. We focus on the deterministic description of the dynamics of a single cluster. The spatial setup accounts for one of the most important determinants of the dynamics of a cluster, i.e. diffusional transport of reaction partners towards or away from the active region of the cluster. We provide numerical and analytical evidence that diffusion influences decisively the dynamic regimes of the reactions. The application of our methods to intracellular Ca2+ dynamics shows that large local concentrations saturate the Ca2+ feedback to the channel state control. It eliminates oscillations depending on this feedback.

Release currents of IP(3) receptor channel clusters and concentration profiles

We simulate currents and concentration profiles generated by Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cytosol through IP(3) receptor channel clusters. Clusters are described as conducting pores in the lumenal membrane with a diameter from 6 nm to 36 nm. The endoplasmic reticulum is modeled as a disc with a radius of 1-12 microm and an inner height of 28 nm. We adapt the dependence of the currents on the trans Ca(2+) concentration (intralumenal) measured in lipid bilayer experiments to the cellular geometry. Simulated currents are compared with signal mass measurements in Xenopus oocytes. We find that release currents depend linearly on the concentration of free Ca(2+) in the lumen. The release current is approximately proportional to the square root of the number of open channels in a cluster. Cytosolic concentrations at the location of the cluster range from 25 microM to 170 microM. Concentration increase due to puffs in a distance of a few micrometers from the puff site is found to be in the nanomolar range. Release currents decay biexponentially with timescales of <1 s and a few seconds. Concentration profiles decay with timescales of 0.125-0.250 s upon termination of release.

Translational mobility of the type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor Ca2+ release channel in endoplasmic reticulum membrane

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) is an integral membrane protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) which functions as a ligand-gated Ca2+ release channel. InsP3-mediated Ca2+ release modulates the cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), providing a ubiquitous intracellular signal with high temporal and spatial specificity. Precise localization of the InsP3R is believed to be important for providing local [Ca2+] regulation and for ensuring efficient functional coupling between Ca2+ release sites by enabling graded recruitment of channels with increasing stimulus strength in the face of the intrinsically unstable regenerative process of Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release. Highly localized Ca2+ release has been attributed to the ability of the InsP3R channels to cluster and to be localized to discrete areas, suggesting that mechanisms may exist to restrict their movement. Here, we examined the lateral mobility of the type 3 isoform of the InsP3R (InsP3R3) in the ER membrane by performing confocal fluorescence recovery after photobleaching of an InsP3R3 with green fluorescent protein fused to its N terminus. In Chinese hamster ovary and COS-7 cells, the diffusion coefficient D was approximately 4 x 10(-10) cm2/s at room temperature, a value similar to that determined for other ER-localized integral membrane proteins, with a high fraction (approximately 75%) of channels mobile. D was modestly increased at 37 degrees C, and it as well as the mobile fraction were reversibly reduced by ATP depletion. Although disruption of the actin cytoskeleton (latrunculin) was without effect, disruption of microtubules (nocodazole) reduced D by half without affecting the mobile fraction. We conclude that the entire ER is continuous in these cells, with the large majority of InsP3R3 channels free to diffuse throughout it, at rates that are comparable with those measured for other polytopic ER integral membrane proteins. The observed InsP3R3 mobility may be higher than its intrinsic diffusional mobility because of additional ATP- and microtubule-facilitated motility of the channel.

Functional characterization of mammalian inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor isoforms

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R) play a key role in intracellular calcium (Ca2+) signaling. Three mammalian InsP3R isoforms--InsP3R type 1 (InsP3R1), InsP3R type 2 (InsP3R2), and InsP3R type 3 (InsP3R3) are expressed in mammals, but the functional differences between the three mammalian InsP3R isoforms are poorly understood. Here we compared single-channel behavior of the recombinant rat InsP3R1, InsP3R2, and InsP3R3 expressed in Sf9 cells, reconstituted into planar lipid bilayers and recorded with 50 mM Ba2+ as a current carrier. We found that: 1), for all three mammalian InsP3R isoforms the size of the unitary current is 1.9 pA and single-channel conductance is 74-80 pS; 2), in optimal recording conditions the maximal single-channel open probability for all three mammalian InsP3R isoforms is in the range 30-40%; 3), in optimal recording conditions the mean open dwell time for all three mammalian InsP3R isoforms is 7-8 ms, the mean closed dwell time is approximately 10 ms; 4), InsP3R2 has the highest apparent affinity for InsP(3) (0.10 microM), followed by InsP3R1 (0.27 microM), and then by InsP3R3 (0.40 microM); 5), InsP3R1 has a high-affinity (0.13 mM) ATP modulatory site, InsP3R2 gating is ATP independent, and InsP3R3 has a low-affinity (2 mM) ATP modulatory site; 6), ATP modulates InsP3R1 gating in a noncooperative manner (n(Hill) = 1.3); 7), ATP modulates InsP3R3 gating in a highly cooperative manner (n(Hill) = 4.1). Obtained results provide novel information about functional properties of mammalian InsP3R isoforms.

Modulation of mammalian inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor isoforms by calcium: a role of calcium sensor region

In the accompanying article, we compared main functional properties of the three mammalian inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R) isoforms. In this article we focused on modulation of mammalian InsP3R isoforms by cytosolic Ca2+. We found that: 1), when recorded in the presence of 2 microM InsP3 and 0.5 mM ATP all three mammalian InsP3R isoforms display bell-shaped Ca2+ dependence in physiological range of Ca2+ concentrations (pCa 8-5); 2), in the same experimental conditions InsP3R3 is most sensitive to modulation by Ca2+ (peak at 107 nM Ca2+), followed by InsP3R2 (peak at 154 nM Ca2+), and then by InsP3R1 (peak at 257 nM Ca2+); 3), increase in ATP concentration to 5 mM had no significant effect of Ca2+ dependence of InsP3R1 and InsP3R2; 4), increase in ATP concentration to 5 mM converted Ca2+ dependence of InsP3R3 from "narrow" shape to "square" shape; 5), ATP-induced change in the shape of InsP3R3 Ca2+ dependence was mainly due to an >200-fold reduction in the apparent affinity of the Ca2+-inhibitory site; 6), the apparent Ca2+ affinity of the Ca2+ sensor region (Cas) determined in biochemical experiments is equal to 0.23 microM Ca2+ for RT1-Cas, 0.16 microM Ca2+ for RT2-Cas, and 0.10 microM Ca2+ for RT3-Cas; and 7), Ca2+ sensitivity of InsP3R1 and InsP3R3 isoforms recorded in the presence of 2 microM InsP3 and 0.5 mM ATP or 2 microM InsP3 and 5 mM ATP can be exchanged by swapping their Cas regions. Obtained results provide novel information about functional properties of mammalian InsP3R isoforms and support the importance of the Ca2+ sensor region (Cas) in determining the sensitivity of InsP3R isoforms to modulation by Ca2+.

Stability of membrane bound reactions

We present a novel approach to the dynamics of reactions of diffusing chemical species with species fixed in space, e.g., by binding to a membrane. The nondiffusing reaction partners are clustered in areas with a diameter smaller than the diffusion length of the diffusing partner. The activated fraction of the fixed species determines the size of an active subregion of the cluster. Linear stability analysis reveals that diffusion is one of the major determinants of the stability of the dynamics. We illustrate the model concept with Ca2+ dynamics in living cells, which has release channels as fixed reaction partners. Our results suggest that spatial and temporal structures in intracellular Ca2+ dynamics are caused by fluctuations due to the small number of channels per cluster.

Effects of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-mediated intracellular stochastic calcium oscillations on activation of glycogen phosphorylase

In various cell types cytosolic calcium (Ca(2+)) is an important regulator. The possible role of Ca(2+) release from the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptor channel in the regulation of the phosphorylation-dephosphorylation cycle process involved in glycogen degradation by glycogen phosphorylase have theoretically investigated by using the Li-Rinzel model for cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations. For the case of deterministic cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations, there exists an optimal frequency of cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations at which the average fraction of active glycogen phosphorylase reaches a maximum value, and a mutation for the average fraction of active glycogen phosphorylase occurs at the higher bifurcation point of Ca(2+) oscillations. For the case of stochastic cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations, the fraction of active phosphorylase is strongly affected by the number of IP(3) receptor channels and the level of IP(3) concentration. Small number of IP(3) receptor channels can potentiate the sensitivity of the activity of glycogen phosphorylase. The average frequency and amplitude of active phosphorylase stochastic oscillations are increased with the level of increasing IP(3) stimuli. The various distributions for the amplitude of active glycogen phosphorylase oscillations in parameters plane are discussed.

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.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors as signal integrators

The inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is a Ca2+ release channel that responds to the second messenger IP3. Exquisite modulation of intracellular Ca2+ release via IP3Rs is achieved by the ability of IP3R to integrate signals from numerous small molecules and proteins including nucleotides, kinases, and phosphatases, as well as nonenzyme proteins. Because the ion conduction pore composes only approximately 5% of the IP3R, the great bulk of this large protein contains recognition sites for these substances. Through these regulatory mechanisms, IP3R modulates diverse cellular functions, which include, but are not limited to, contraction/excitation, secretion, gene expression, and cellular growth. We review the unique properties of the IP3R that facilitate cell-type and stimulus-dependent control of function, with special emphasis on protein-binding partners.

Plasma and intracellular membrane inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors mediate the Ca(2+) increase associated with the ATP-induced increase in ciliary beat frequency

An increase in intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) has been shown to be involved in the increase in ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in response to ATP; however, the signaling pathways associated with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptor-dependent Ca(2+) mobilization remain unresolved. Using radioimmunoassay techniques, we have demonstrated the appearance of two IP(3) peaks occurring 10 and 60 s after ATP addition, which was strongly correlated with a release of intracellular Ca(2+) from internal stores and an influx of extracellular Ca(2+), respectively. In addition, ATP-dependent Ca(2+) mobilization required protein kinase C (PKC) and Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II activation. We found an increase in PKC activity in response to ATP, with a peak at 60 s after ATP addition. Xestospongin C, an IP(3) receptor blocker, significantly diminished both the ATP-induced increase in CBF and the initial transient [Ca(2+)](i) component. ATP addition in the presence of xestospongin C or thapsigargin revealed that the Ca(2+) influx is also dependent on IP(3) receptor activation. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopic studies showed the presence of IP(3) receptor types 1 and 3 in cultured ciliated cells. Immunogold electron microscopy localized IP(3) receptor type 3 to the nucleus, the endoplasmic reticulum, and, interestingly, the plasma membrane. In contrast, IP(3) receptor type 1 was found exclusively in the nucleus and the endoplasmic reticulum. Our study demonstrates for the first time the presence of IP(3) receptor type 3 in the plasma membrane in ciliated cells and leads us to postulate that the IP(3) receptor can directly trigger Ca(2+) influx in response to ATP.

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.

Subpopulation of store-operated Ca2+ channels regulate Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in non-excitable cells

Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) is a well characterized activity in skeletal and cardiac muscles mediated by the ryanodine receptors. The present study demonstrates CICR in the non-excitable parotid acinar cells, which resembles the mechanism described in cardiac myocytes. Partial depletion of internal Ca2+ stores leads to a minimal activation of Ca2+ influx. Ca2+ influx through this pathway results in an explosive mobilization of Ca2+ from the majority of the stores by CICR. Thus, stimulation of parotid acinar cells in Ca2+ -free medium with 0.5 microm carbachol releases approximately 5% of the Ca2+ mobilizable by 1 mm carbachol. Addition of external Ca2+ induced the same Ca2+ release observed in maximally stimulated cells. Similar results were obtained by a short treatment with 2.5-10 microm cyclopiazonic acid, an inhibitor of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase pump. The Ca2+ release induced by the addition of external Ca2+ was largely independent of IP(3)Rs because it was reduced by only approximately 30% by the inhibition of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors with caffeine or heparin. Measurements of Ca2+ -activated outward current and [Ca2+](i) suggested that most CICR triggered by Ca2+ influx occurred away from the plasma membrane. Measurement of the response to several concentrations of cyclopiazonic acid revealed that Ca2+ influx that regulates CICR is associated with a selective portion of the internal Ca2+ pool. The minimal activation of Ca2+ influx by partial store depletion was confirmed by the measurement of Mn2+ influx. Inhibition of Ca2+ influx with SKF96365 or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate prevented activation of CICR observed on addition of external Ca2+. These findings provide evidence for activation of CICR by Ca2+ influx in non-excitable cells, demonstrate a previously unrecognized role for Ca2+ influx in triggering CICR, and indicate that CICR in non-excitable cells resembles CICR in cardiac myocytes with the exception that in cardiac cells Ca2+ influx is mediated by voltage-regulated Ca2+ channels whereas in non-excitable cells Ca2+ influx is mediated by store-operated channels.

Distinct Roles of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Types 1 and 3 in Ca2+ Signaling

Three subtypes of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R1, IP(3)R2, and IP(3)R3) Ca(2+) release channel share basic properties but differ in terms of regulation. To what extent they contribute to complex Ca(2+) signaling, such as Ca(2+) oscillations, remains largely unknown. Here we show that HeLa cells express comparable amounts of IP(3)R1 and IP(3)R3, but knockdown by RNA interference of each subtype results in dramatically distinct Ca(2+) signaling patterns. Knockdown of IP(3)R1 significantly decreases total Ca(2+) signals and terminates Ca(2+) oscillations. Conversely, knockdown of IP(3)R3 leads to more robust and long lasting Ca(2+) oscillations than in controls. Effects of IP(3)R3 knockdown are surprisingly similar in COS-7 cells that predominantly (>90% of total IP(3)R) express IP(3)R3, suggesting that IP(3)R3 functions as an anti-Ca(2+)-oscillatory unit without contributing to peak amplitude of Ca(2+) signals, irrespective of its relative expression level. Therefore, differential expression of the IP(3)R subtype is critical for various forms of Ca(2+) signaling, and, particularly, IP(3)R1 and IP(3)R3 have opposite roles in generating Ca(2+) oscillations.

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+].

Loss of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors from bile duct epithelia is a common event in cholestasis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cholestasis is one of the principal manifestations of liver disease and often results from disorders involving bile duct epithelia rather than hepatocytes. A range of disorders affects biliary epithelia, and no unifying pathophysiologic event in these cells has been identified as the cause of cholestasis. Here we examined the role of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R)/Ca(2+) release channel in Ca(2+) signaling and ductular secretion in animal models of cholestasis and in patients with cholestatic disorders.

METHODS

The expression and distribution of the InsP3R and related proteins were examined in rat cholangiocytes before and after bile duct ligation or treatment with endotoxin. Ca(2+) signaling was examined in isolated bile ducts from these animals, whereas ductular bicarbonate secretion was examined in isolated perfused livers. Confocal immunofluorescence was used to examine cholangiocyte InsP3R expression in human liver biopsy specimens.

RESULTS

Expression of the InsP3R was selectively lost from biliary epithelia after bile duct ligation or endotoxin treatment. As a result, Ca(2+) signaling and Ca(2+)-mediated bicarbonate secretion were lost as well, although other components of the Ca(2+) signaling pathway and adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-mediated bicarbonate secretion both were preserved. Examination of human liver biopsy specimens showed that InsP3Rs also were lost from bile duct epithelia in a range of human cholestatic disorders, although InsP3R expression was intact in noncholestatic liver disease.

CONCLUSIONS

InsP3-mediated Ca(2+) signaling in bile duct epithelia appears to be important for normal bile secretion in the liver, and loss of InsP3Rs may be a final common pathway for cholestasis.

Modeling of Ca2+ flux in pancreatic beta-cells: role of the plasma membrane and intracellular stores

We have developed a detailed mathematical model of ionic flux in beta-cells that includes the most essential channels and pumps in the plasma membrane. This model is coupled to equations describing Ca2+, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), ATP, and Na+ homeostasis, including the uptake and release of Ca2+ by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In our model, metabolically derived ATP activates inward Ca2+ flux by regulation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels and depolarization of the plasma membrane. Results from the simulations support the hypothesis that intracellular Na+ and Ca2+ in the ER can be the main variables driving both fast (2-7 osc/min) and slow intracellular Ca2+ concentration oscillations (0.3-0.9 osc/min) and that the effect of IP3 on Ca2+ leak from the ER contributes to the pattern of slow calcium oscillations. Simulations also show that filling the ER Ca2+ stores leads to faster electrical bursting and Ca2+ oscillations. Specific Ca2+ oscillations in isolated beta-cell lines can also be simulated.

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.

Signalling specificity in GPCR-dependent Ca2+ signalling

Cells use signalling networks to translate with high fidelity extracellular signals into specific cellular functions. Signalling networks are often composed of multiple signalling pathways that act in concert to regulate a particular cellular function. In the centre of the networks are the receptors that receive and transduce the signals. A versatile family of receptors that detect a remarkable variety of signals are the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Virtually all cells express several GPCRs that use the same biochemical machinery to transduce their signals. Considering the specificity and fidelity of signal transduction, a central question in cell signalling is how signalling specificity is achieved, in particular among GPCRs that use the same biochemical machinery. Ca(2+) signalling is particularly suitable to address such questions, since [Ca(2+)](i) can be recorded with excellent spatial and temporal resolutions in living cells and tissues and now in living animals. Ca(2+) is a unique second messenger in that both biochemical and biophysical components form the Ca(2+) signalling complex to regulate its concentration. Both components act in concert to generate repetitive [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations that can be either localized or in the form of global, propagating Ca(2+) waves. Most of the key proteins that form Ca(2+) signalling complexes are known and their activities are reasonably well understood on the biochemical and biophysical levels. We review here the information gained from studying Ca(2+) signalling by GPCRs to gain further understanding of the mechanisms used to generate cellular signalling specificity.

On the role of stochastic channel behavior in intracellular Ca2+ dynamics

I present a stochastic model for intracellular Ca(2+) oscillations. The model starts from stochastic binding and dissociation of Ca(2+) to binding sites on a single subunit of the IP(3)-receptor channel but is capable of simulating large numbers of clusters for many oscillation periods too. I find oscillations with variable periods ranging from 17 s to 120 s and a standard deviation well in the experimentally observed range. Long period oscillations can be perceived as nucleation phenomenon and can be observed for a large variety of single channel dynamics. Their period depends on the geometric characteristics of the cluster array. Short periods are in the range of the time scale of channel dynamics. Both long and short period oscillations occur for parameters with a nonoscillatory deterministic regime.

Carboxyl-terminal sequences critical for inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor subunit assembly

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP(3)R) is a tetrameric assembly of conserved subunits that each contains six transmembrane regions (TMRs) localized near the carboxyl terminus. Receptor subunit assembly into a tetramer appears to be a multideterminant process involving an additive contribution of membrane spanning helices and the short cytosolic carboxyl terminus (residues 2590-2749). Previous studies have shown that of the six membrane-spanning regions in each subunit, the 5th and 6th transmembrane regions, and the carboxyl terminus are strong determinants for assembly. The fifth and sixth TMRs contain numerous beta-branched amino acids that may participate in coiled/coil formation via putative leucine zipper motifs. InsP(3)R truncation mutants were expressed in COS-1 cells and analyzed by sucrose density gradient sedimentation and gel filtration for their ability to assemble. Chemical cross-linking with the homobifunctional reagents sDST or DMS of mammalian and bacterially expressed carboxyl-terminal containing receptor fragments reveals that sequences within the carboxyl terminus confer the formation of subunit dimers. A series of InsP(3) receptor carboxyl-terminal fragments and glutathione S-transferase (GST)/InsP(3)R chimeras were expressed in Escherichia coli and used in an in vitro assay to elucidate the minimal sequence responsible for association of the carboxyl termini into dimers. The results presented here indicate that this minimal sequence is approximately 30 residues in length and is localized between residues 2629 and 2654. These residues are highly conserved between the three InsP(3)R isoforms ( approximately 80% identity) as well as the ryanodine receptor ( approximately 40% identity) and suggest that a conserved assembly motif may exist between the two intracellular receptor families. We propose that assembly of the InsP(3) receptor to a tetramer involves intersubunit interactions mediated through both the membrane-spanning regions and residues 2629-2654 of the carboxyl terminus possibly through the formation of a dimer of dimers.

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).