The autoimmunity-related GIMAP5 GTPase is a lysosome-associated protein

A mutation in the rat GIMAP5 gene predisposes for autoimmunity, most famously in the BB rat model of autoimmune type 1 diabetes mellitus. This mutation is associated with severe peripheral T lymphopenia, as is mutation of the same gene in mice, but the mechanism by which GIMAP5 normally protects T cells from death is unknown. GIMAP5 is a putative small GTPase, a class of proteins which often fulfil their functions in the vicinity of cellular membranes. The objective of this study was to determine the normal intracellular location of GIMAP5 in lymphoid cells. Combining studies in rat, mouse and human systems, novel monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were used to examine the localization of GIMAP5 and the closely-related protein, GIMAP1, in lymphoid cells by means of confocal microscopy and sub-cellular fractionation combined with immunoblotting. Additionally, human Jurkat T cells that inducibly express epitope-tagged GIMAP5 were established and used in electron microscopy (EM). Endogenous GIMAP5 was found to be located in a membraneous compartment/s which was also detected by established markers of lysosomes. GIMAP1, by contrast, was found to be located in the Golgi apparatus. EM studies of the inducible Jurkat T cells also found GIMAP5 in lysosomes and, in addition, in multivesicular bodies. This study establishes that the endogenous location of GIMAP5 is in lysosomes and related compartments and provides a clearer context for hypotheses about its mechanism of action.

Electrical bursting, calcium oscillations, and synchronization of pancreatic islets

Oscillations are an integral part of insulin secretion and are ultimately due to oscillations in the electrical activity of pancreatic beta-cells, called bursting. In this chapter we discuss islet bursting oscillations and a unified biophysical model for this multi-scale behavior. We describe how electrical bursting is related to oscillations in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration within beta-cells and the role played by metabolic oscillations. Finally, we discuss two potential mechanisms for the synchronization of islets within the pancreas. Some degree of synchronization must occur, since distinct oscillations in insulin levels have been observed in hepatic portal blood and in peripheral blood sampling of rats, dogs, and humans. Our central hypothesis, supported by several lines of evidence, is that insulin oscillations are crucial to normal glucose homeostasis. Disturbance of oscillations, either at the level of the individual islet or at the level of islet synchronization, is detrimental and can play a major role in type 2 diabetes.

Electrophysiology of islet cells

Stimulus-Secretion Coupling (SSC) of pancreatic islet cells comprises electrical activity. Changes of the membrane potential (V(m)) are regulated by metabolism-dependent alterations in ion channel activity. This coupling is best explored in beta-cells. The effect of glucose is directly linked to mitochondrial metabolism as the ATP/ADP ratio determines the open probability of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (K(ATP) channels). Nucleotide sensitivity and concentration in the direct vicinity of the channels are controlled by several factors including phospholipids, fatty acids, and kinases, e.g., creatine and adenylate kinase. Closure of K(ATP) channels leads to depolarization of beta-cells via a yet unknown depolarizing current. Ca(2+) influx during action potentials (APs) results in an increase of the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](c)) that triggers exocytosis. APs are elicited by the opening of voltage-dependent Na(+) and/or Ca(2+) channels and repolarized by voltage- and/or Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) channels. At a constant stimulatory glucose concentration APs are clustered in bursts that are interrupted by hyperpolarized interburst phases. Bursting electrical activity induces parallel fluctuations in [Ca(2+)](c) and insulin secretion. Bursts are terminated by I(Kslow) consisting of currents through Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) channels and K(ATP) channels. This review focuses on structure, characteristics, physiological function, and regulation of ion channels in beta-cells. Information about pharmacological drugs acting on K(ATP) channels, K(ATP) channelopathies, and influence of oxidative stress on K(ATP) channel function is provided. One focus is the outstanding significance of L-type Ca(2+) channels for insulin secretion. The role of less well characterized beta-cell channels including voltage-dependent Na(+) channels, volume sensitive anion channels (VSACs), transient receptor potential (TRP)-related channels, and hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels is discussed. A model of beta-cell oscillations provides insight in the interplay of the different channels to induce and maintain electrical activity. Regulation of beta-cell electrical activity by hormones and the autonomous nervous system is discussed. alpha- and delta-cells are also equipped with K(ATP) channels, voltage-dependent Na(+), K(+), and Ca(2+) channels. Yet the SSC of these cells is less clear and is not necessarily dependent on K(ATP) channel closure. Different ion channels of alpha- and delta-cells are introduced and SSC in alpha-cells is described in special respect of paracrine effects of insulin and GABA secreted from beta-cells.

TPC2 proteins mediate nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP)- and agonist-evoked contractions of smooth muscle

Agonists such as those acting at muscarinic receptors are thought to induce contraction of smooth muscle primarily through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production and release of Ca²⁺ from sarcoplasmic reticulum. However, the additional Ca²⁺-mobilizing messengers cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cADPR) and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) may also be involved in this process, the former acting on the sarcoplasmic reticulum, the latter acting on lysosome-related organelles. In this study, we provide the first systematic analysis of the capacity of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, cADPR, and NAADP to cause contraction in smooth muscle. Using permeabilized guinea pig detrusor and taenia caecum, we show that all three Ca²⁺-mobilizing messengers cause contractions in both types of smooth muscle. We demonstrate that cADPR and NAADP play differential roles in mediating contraction in response to muscarinic receptor activation, with a sizeable role for NAADP and acidic calcium stores in detrusor muscle but not in taenia caecum, underscoring the heterogeneity of smooth muscle signal transduction systems. Two-pore channel proteins (TPCs) have recently been shown to be key components of the NAADP receptor. We show that contractile responses to NAADP were completely abolished, and agonist-evoked contractions were reduced and now became independent of acidic calcium stores in Tpcn2^−/− mouse detrusor smooth muscle. Our findings provide the first evidence that TPC proteins mediate a key NAADP-regulated tissue response brought about by agonist activation of a cell surface receptor.

Use of cells expressing gamma subunit variants to identify diverse mechanisms of AMPK activation

A wide variety of agents activate AMPK, but in many cases the mechanisms remain unclear. We generated isogenic cell lines stably expressing AMPK complexes containing AMP-sensitive (wild-type, WT) or AMP-insensitive (R531G) gamma2 variants. Mitochondrial poisons such as oligomycin and dinitrophenol only activated AMPK in WT cells, as did AICAR, 2-deoxyglucose, hydrogen peroxide, metformin, phenformin, galegine, troglitazone, phenobarbital, resveratrol, and berberine. Excluding AICAR, all of these also inhibited cellular energy metabolism, shown by increases in ADP:ATP ratio and/or by decreases in cellular oxygen uptake measured using an extracellular flux analyzer. By contrast, A769662, the Ca(2+) ionophore, A23187, osmotic stress, and quercetin activated both variants to varying extents. A23187 and osmotic stress also increased cytoplasmic Ca(2+), and their effects were inhibited by STO609, a CaMKK inhibitor. Our approaches distinguish at least six different mechanisms for AMPK activation and confirm that the widely used antidiabetic drug metformin activates AMPK by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration.

Glucose sensing in the pancreatic beta cell: a computational systems analysis

Background

Pancreatic beta-cells respond to rising blood glucose by increasing oxidative metabolism, leading to an increased ATP/ADP ratio in the cytoplasm. This leads to a closure of K_ATP channels, depolarization of the plasma membrane, influx of calcium and the eventual secretion of insulin. Such mechanism suggests that beta-cell metabolism should have a functional regulation specific to secretion, as opposed to coupling to contraction. The goal of this work is to uncover contributions of the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial processes in this secretory coupling mechanism using mathematical modeling in a systems biology approach.

Methods

We describe a mathematical model of beta-cell sensitivity to glucose. The cytoplasmic part of the model includes equations describing glucokinase, glycolysis, pyruvate reduction, NADH and ATP production and consumption. The mitochondrial part begins with production of NADH, which is regulated by pyruvate dehydrogenase. NADH is used in the electron transport chain to establish a proton motive force, driving the F₁F₀ ATPase. Redox shuttles and mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling were also modeled.

Results

The model correctly predicts changes in the ATP/ADP ratio, Ca²⁺ and other metabolic parameters in response to changes in substrate delivery at steady-state and during cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ oscillations. Our analysis of the model simulations suggests that the mitochondrial membrane potential should be relatively lower in beta cells compared with other cell types to permit precise mitochondrial regulation of the cytoplasmic ATP/ADP ratio. This key difference may follow from a relative reduction in respiratory activity. The model demonstrates how activity of lactate dehydrogenase, uncoupling proteins and the redox shuttles can regulate beta-cell function in concert; that independent oscillations of cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ can lead to slow coupled metabolic oscillations; and that the relatively low production rate of reactive oxygen species in beta-cells under physiological conditions is a consequence of the relatively decreased mitochondrial membrane potential.

Conclusion

This comprehensive model predicts a special role for mitochondrial control mechanisms in insulin secretion and ROS generation in the beta cell. The model can be used for testing and generating control hypotheses and will help to provide a more complete understanding of beta-cell glucose-sensing central to the physiology and pathology of pancreatic β-cells.

Lessons from models of pancreatic beta cells for engineering glucose-sensing cells

Mathematical models of pancreatic beta cells suggest design principles that can be applied to engineering cells to sense glucose and secrete insulin. Engineering cells can potentially both contribute to future diabetes therapies and generate new insights into beta-cell function. The focus is on ion channels, Ca(2+)handling, and elements of metabolism that combine to produce the varied oscillatory patterns exhibited by beta cells.

Characterization of two-pore channel 2 (TPCN2)-mediated Ca2+ currents in isolated lysosomes

Two-pore channels (TPCNs) have been proposed to form lysosomal Ca(2+) release channels that are activated by nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate. Here, we employ a glass chip-based method to record for the first time nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate -dependent currents through a two-pore channel (TPCN2) from intact lysosomes. We show that TPCN2 is a highly selective Ca(2+) channel that is regulated by intralysosomal pH. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we identify an amino acid residue in the putative pore region that is crucial for conferring high Ca(2+) selectivity. Our glass chip-based method will provide electrophysiological access not only to lysosomal TPCN channels but also to a broad range of other intracellular ion channels.

Degeneration of an intracellular ion channel in the primate lineage by relaxation of selective constraints

Ion channel genes are highly conserved and are rarely degenerated in the primate lineage leading to humans. So far, the only well-characterized ion channel known to be degenerated in primates is the plasma membrane transient receptor potential channel TRPC2, possibly due to changes in the pheromone signaling. Here, by analyzing the sequence data from ten primate species, we have determined the degeneration process of the TPC3 gene that encodes a member of the two-pore channel (TPC) family recently implicated in Ca(2+) release by nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate from intracellular acidic stores in animals. We show that degeneration of TPC3 likely began in the common ancestors of Apes and Old World monkeys through a conserved inactivating mutation, followed by additional deleterious mutations resulting in the generation of a TPC3 pseudogene in the descendant catarrhine lineage. Located at a chromosome recombination hot spot, catarrhine TPC3 pseudogenes underwent a series of lineage-specific rearrangements, including exon deletion and duplication. In contrast, we identify near full-length TPC3 sequences in New World monkeys and Prosimians and show that the gene is subjected to strong purifying selection and therefore likely functional. Our data provide the first evidence for relaxed functional constraints for an intracellular ion channel in primates and shed novel insights into the evolution and regulation of Ca(2+) signaling in the primate lineage.

Molecular basis of calcium signaling in lymphocytes: STIM and ORAI

Ca(2+) entry into cells of the peripheral immune system occurs through highly Ca(2+)-selective channels known as CRAC (calcium release-activated calcium) channels. CRAC channels are a very well-characterized example of store-operated Ca(2+) channels, so designated because they open when the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) store becomes depleted. Physiologically, Ca(2+) is released from the ER lumen into the cytoplasm when activated receptors couple to phospholipase C and trigger production of the second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)). IP(3) binds to IP(3) receptors in the ER membrane and activates Ca(2+) release. The proteins STIM and ORAI were discovered through limited and genome-wide RNAi screens, respectively, performed in Drosophila cells and focused on identifying modulators of store-operated Ca(2+) entry. STIM1 and STIM2 sense the depletion of ER Ca(2+) stores, whereas ORAI1 is a pore subunit of the CRAC channel. In this review, we discuss selected aspects of Ca(2+) signaling in cells of the immune system, focusing on the roles of STIM and ORAI proteins in store-operated Ca(2+) entry.

A single residue in a novel ADP-ribosyl cyclase controls production of the calcium-mobilizing messengers cyclic ADP-ribose and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate

Cyclic ADP-ribose and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate are ubiquitous calcium-mobilizing messengers produced by the same family of multifunctional enzymes, the ADP-ribosyl cyclases. Not all ADP-ribosyl cyclases have been identified, and how production of different messengers is achieved is incompletely understood. Here, we report the cloning and characterization of a novel ADP-ribosyl cyclase (SpARC4) from the sea urchin, a key model organism for the study of calcium-signaling pathways. Like several other members of the ADP-ribosyl cyclase superfamily, SpARC4 is a glycoprotein targeted to the plasma membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor. However, unlike most other members, SpARC4 shows a remarkable preference for producing cyclic ADP-ribose over nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate. Mutation of a single residue (tyrosine 142) within a noncanonical active site reversed this striking preference. Our data highlight further diversification of this unusual enzyme family, provide mechanistic insight into multifunctionality, and suggest that different ADP-ribosyl cyclases are fine-tuned to produce specific calcium-mobilizing messengers.

Purified TPC isoforms form NAADP receptors with distinct roles for Ca(2+) signaling and endolysosomal trafficking

Intracellular Ca²⁺ signals constitute key elements in signal transduction. Of the three major Ca²⁺ mobilizing messengers described, the most potent, nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is the least well understood in terms of its molecular targets [1]. Recently, we showed that heterologous expression of two-pore channel (TPC) proteins enhances NAADP-induced Ca²⁺ release, whereas the NAADP response was abolished in pancreatic beta cells from Tpcn2 gene knockout mice [2]. However, whether TPCs constitute native NAADP receptors is unclear. Here we show that immunopurified endogenous TPC complexes possess the hallmark properties ascribed to NAADP receptors, including nanomolar ligand affinity [3–5]. Our study also reveals important functional differences between the three TPC isoforms. Thus, TPC1 and TPC2 both mediate NAADP-induced Ca²⁺ release, but the subsequent amplification of this trigger Ca²⁺ by IP₃Rs is more tightly coupled for TPC2. In contrast, TPC3 expression suppressed NAADP-induced Ca²⁺ release. Finally, increased TPC expression has dramatic and contrasting effects on endolysosomal structures and dynamics, implicating a role for NAADP in the regulation of vesicular trafficking. We propose that NAADP regulates endolysosomal Ca²⁺ storage and release via TPCs and coordinates endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ release in a role that impacts on Ca²⁺ signaling in health and disease [6].

A functional role for nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate in oxytocin-mediated contraction of uterine smooth muscle from rat

Conventionally, G protein-coupled receptors are thought to increase calcium via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3)). More recent evidence shows that an alternative second messenger, nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP), also has a role to play, causing researchers to question established calcium releasing pathways. With the recent development, by our group, of cell-permeant NAADP (NAADP-aceteoxymethyl ester) and a selective NAADP receptor antagonist (Ned-19; 1-(3-((4-(2-fluorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl)methyl)-4-methoxyphenyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole-3-carboxylic acid),the ability to investigate this signaling pathway has improved. Therefore, we investigated a role for NAADP in oxytocin-mediated responses in the rat uterus. Oxytocin- and NAADP-mediated effects were investigated by using contractile measurements of whole uterine strips from rat in organ baths. Responses were correlated to calcium release in cultured rat uterine smooth muscle cells measured by fluorescence microscopy. Inhibition of both oxytocin-induced contraction and calcium release by the traditional NAADP-signaling disrupter bafilomycin and the NAADP receptor antagonist Ned-19 clearly demonstrated a role for NAADP in oxytocin-induced signaling. A cell-permeant form of NAADP was able to produce both uterine contractions and calcium release. This response was unaffected by depletion of sarcoplasmic reticulum stores with thapsigargin, but was abolished by both bafilomycin and Ned-19. Crucially, oxytocin stimulated an increase in NAADP in rat uterine tissue. The present study demonstrates directly that NAADP signaling plays a role in rat uterine contractions. Moreover, investigation of this signaling pathway highlights yet another component of oxytocin-mediated signaling, stressing the need to consider the action of new components as they are discovered, even in signaling pathways that are thought to be well established.

Acidic calcium stores open for business: expanding the potential for intracellular Ca2+ signaling

Changes in cytosolic calcium concentration are crucial for a variety of cellular processes in all cells. It has long been appreciated that calcium is stored and released from intracellular calcium stores such as the endoplasmic reticulum. However, emerging evidence indicates that calcium is also dynamically regulated by a seemingly disparate collection of acidic organelles. In this paper, we review the defining features of these 'acidic calcium stores' and highlight recent progress in understanding the mechanisms of uptake and release of calcium from these stores. We also examine the nature of calcium buffering within the stores, and summarize the physiological and pathophysiological significance of these ubiquitous organelles in calcium signaling.

Deviant nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP)-mediated Ca2+ signaling upon lysosome proliferation

Accumulating evidence suggests that the endolysosomal system is a novel intracellular Ca(2+) pool mobilized by the second messenger, nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP). Although lysosomes in neurons are known to proliferate in numerous neurodegenerative diseases and during the normal course of aging, little is known concerning the effect of lysosomal proliferation on Ca(2+) homeostasis. Here, we induce proliferation of lysosomes in primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons and PC12 cells through chronic treatment with the cathepsin inhibitor, Z-Phe-Ala-diazomethylketone. We demonstrate that lysosome proliferation increases the size of the lysosomal Ca(2+) pool and enhances Ca(2+) signals in response to direct cellular delivery of NAADP and glutamate, an identified NAADP-producing agonist. Our data suggest that deregulated lysosomal Ca(2+) signaling through NAADP may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and highlight the usefulness of lysosomal hydrolase inhibition in probing NAADP action.

Lysosome-dependent Ca(2+) release response to Fas activation in coronary arterial myocytes through NAADP: evidence from CD38 gene knockouts

Activation of the death receptor Fas has been implicated in the development of vascular injury or disease, but most studies have focused on its role in the regulation of cell apoptosis and growth. The present study was designed to examine the early response of coronary artery to Fas activation by its ligand, FasL. The hypothesis being tested is that CD38 signaling pathway mediates FasL-induced intracellular Ca(2+) release through nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) in mouse coronary arterial myocytes (CAMs) and thereby produces vasoconstriction in coronary arteries. HPLC analysis demonstrated that FasL markedly increased NAADP production in CAMs from wild-type mice (CD38(+/+)) but not in cells from CD38 knockout (CD38(-/-)) mice. Using fluorescent Ca(2+) imaging analysis, we found that FasL (10 ng/ml) significantly increased Ca(2+) release from 142.5 +/- 22.5 nM at the basal level to 509.4 +/- 64.3 nM in CD38(+/+) CAMs but not in CD38(-/-) CAMs. However, direct delivery of NAADP, the CD38 metabolite, into CD38(-/-) CAMs still markedly increased Ca(2+) release, which could be significantly attenuated by a lysosomal function inhibitor, bafilomycin A1 (Baf), or a NAADP antagonist, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2-disulfonic acid. Confocal microscopy further demonstrated that FasL produced a typical two-phase Ca(2+) release with a local Ca(2+) burst from lysosomes, followed by a global Ca(2+) response in CD38(+/+) CAMs. In isolated perfused septal coronary arteries from CD38(+/+) mice, FasL was found to significantly increase U-46619-induced vasoconstriction from 29.2 +/- 7.3 to 63.2 +/- 10.3%, which was abolished by Baf (100 nM). These results strongly indicate that the early response of CAMs to FasL is to increase intracellular Ca(2+) levels and enhance the vascular reactivity through stimulation of NAADP production and lysosome-associated two-phase Ca(2+) release in coronary arteries.

Suppression subtractive hybridization analysis of low-protein diet- and vitamin D-induced gene expression from rat kidney inner medullary base

Protein restriction and hypercalcemia result in a urinary concentrating defect in rats and humans. Previous tubular perfusion studies show that there is an increased active urea transport activity in the initial inner medullary (IM) collecting duct in low-protein diet (LPD) and vitamin D (Vit D) animal models. To investigate the possible mechanisms that cause the urinary concentrating defect and to clone the new active urea transporter, we employed a modified two-tester suppression subtractive hybridization (ttSSH) approach and examined gene expression induced by LPD and Vit D in kidney IM base. Approximately 600 clones from the subtracted library were randomly selected; 150 clones were further confirmed to be the true positive genes by slot blot hybridization with subtracted probes from LPD and Vit D and sent for DNA sequencing. We identified 10 channel/transporter genes that were upregulated in IM base in LPD and Vit D animal models; 8 were confirmed by real-time PCR. These genes include aquaporin 2 (AQP2), two-pore calcium channel protein 2, brain-specific organic cation transporter, Na(+)- and H(+)-coupled glutamine transporter, and solute carrier family 25. Nine genes are totally new, and twelve are uncharacterized hypothetical proteins. Among them, four genes were shown to be new transmembrane proteins as judged by Kyte-Doolittle hydrophobic plot analysis. ttSSH provides a useful method to identify new genes from two conditioned populations.

Intracellular Ca2+ storage in health and disease: a dynamic equilibrium

Homeostatic control of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) both as the site for protein handling (synthesis, folding, trafficking, disaggregation and degradation) and as a Ca2+ store is of crucial importance for correct functioning of the cell. Disturbance of the homeostatic control mechanisms leads to a vast array of severe pathologies. The Ca2+ content of the ER is a dynamic equilibrium between active uptake via Ca2+ pumps and Ca2+ release by a number of highly regulated Ca2+-release channels. Regulation of the Ca2+-release channels is very complex and several mechanisms are still poorly understood or controversial. There is increasing evidence that a number of unrelated proteins, either by themselves or in association with other Ca2+ channels, can provide additional Ca2+-leak pathways. The ER is a dynamic organelle and changes in its size and components have been described, either as a result of (de)differentiation processes affecting the secretory capacity of cells, or as a result of adaptation mechanisms to diverse stress conditions such as the unfolded protein response and autophagy. In this review we want to give an overview of the current knowledge of the (short-term) regulatory mechanisms that affect Ca2+-release and Ca2+-leak pathways and of the (long-term) adaptations in ER size and capacity. Understanding of the consequences of these mechanisms for cellular Ca2+ signaling could provide a huge therapeutic potential.

Calcium signals: the lead currency of plant information processing

Ca(2+) signals are core transducers and regulators in many adaptation and developmental processes of plants. Ca(2+) signals are represented by stimulus-specific signatures that result from the concerted action of channels, pumps, and carriers that shape temporally and spatially defined Ca(2+) elevations. Cellular Ca(2+) signals are decoded and transmitted by a toolkit of Ca(2+) binding proteins that relay this information into downstream responses. Major transduction routes of Ca(2+) signaling involve Ca(2+)-regulated kinases mediating phosphorylation events that orchestrate downstream responses or comprise regulation of gene expression via Ca(2+)-regulated transcription factors and Ca(2+)-responsive promoter elements. Here, we review some of the remarkable progress that has been made in recent years, especially in identifying critical components functioning in Ca(2+) signal transduction, both at the single-cell and multicellular level. Despite impressive progress in our understanding of the processing of Ca(2+) signals during the past years, the elucidation of the exact mechanistic principles that underlie the specific recognition and conversion of the cellular Ca(2+) currency into defined changes in protein-protein interaction, protein phosphorylation, and gene expression and thereby establish the specificity in stimulus response coupling remain to be explored.

Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum of NY-ESO-1-specific T cells is modulated by the affinity of TCR and by the use of the CD8 coreceptor

Although several cancer immunotherapy strategies are based on the use of analog peptides and on the modulation of the TCR affinity of adoptively transferred T cells, it remains unclear whether tumor-specific T cell activation by strong and weak TCR stimuli evoke different Ca(2+) signatures from the Ca(2+) intracellular stores and whether the amplitude of Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) can be further modulated by coreceptor binding to peptide/MHC. In this study, we combined functional, structural, and kinetic measurements to correlate the intensity of Ca(2+) signals triggered by the stimulation of the 1G4 T cell clone specific to the tumor epitope NY-ESO-1(157-165). Two analogs of the NY-ESO-1(157-165) peptide, having similar affinity to HLA-A2 molecules, but a 6-fold difference in binding affinity for the 1G4 TCR, resulted in different Ca(2+) signals and T cell activation. 1G4 stimulation by the stronger stimulus emptied the ER of stored Ca(2+), even in the absence of CD8 binding, resulting in sustained Ca(2+) influx. In contrast, the weaker stimulus induced only partial emptying of stored Ca(2+), resulting in significantly diminished and oscillatory Ca(2+) signals, which were enhanced by CD8 binding. Our data define the range of TCR/peptide MHC affinities required to induce depletion of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and provide insights into the ability of T cells to tailor the use of the CD8 coreceptor to enhance Ca(2+) release from the ER. This, in turn, modulates Ca(2+) influx from the extracellular environment, ultimately controlling T cell activation.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum function in smooth muscle

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of smooth muscles presents many intriguing facets and questions concerning its roles, especially as these change with development, disease, and modulation of physiological activity. The SR's function was originally perceived to be synthetic and then that of a Ca store for the contractile proteins, acting as a Ca amplification mechanism as it does in striated muscles. Gradually, as investigators have struggled to find a convincing role for Ca-induced Ca release in many smooth muscles, a role in controlling excitability has emerged. This is the Ca spark/spontaneous transient outward current coupling mechanism which reduces excitability and limits contraction. Release of SR Ca occurs in response to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, Ca, and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and depletion of SR Ca can initiate Ca entry, the mechanism of which is being investigated but seems to involve Stim and Orai as found in nonexcitable cells. The contribution of the elemental Ca signals from the SR, sparks and puffs, to global Ca signals, i.e., Ca waves and oscillations, is becoming clearer but is far from established. The dynamics of SR Ca release and uptake mechanisms are reviewed along with the control of luminal Ca. We review the growing list of the SR's functions that still includes Ca storage, contraction, and relaxation but has been expanded to encompass Ca homeostasis, generating local and global Ca signals, and contributing to cellular microdomains and signaling in other organelles, including mitochondria, lysosomes, and the nucleus. For an integrated approach, a review of aspects of the SR in health and disease and during development and aging are also included. While the sheer versatility of smooth muscle makes it foolish to have a "one model fits all" approach to this subject, we have tried to synthesize conclusions wherever possible.

Transient receptor potential channelopathies

In the past years, several hereditary diseases caused by defects in transient receptor potential channels (TRP) genes have been described. This review summarizes our current knowledge about TRP channelopathies and their possible pathomechanisms. Based on available genetic indications, we will also describe several putative pathological conditions in which (mal)function of TRP channels could be anticipated.

Bax inhibitor 1 increases cell adhesion through actin polymerization: involvement of calcium and actin binding

Bax inhibitor 1 (BI-1), a transmembrane protein with Ca2+ channel-like activity, has antiapoptotic and anticancer activities. Cells overexpressing BI-1 demonstrated increased cell adhesion. Using a proteomics tool, we found that BI-1 interacted with gamma-actin via leucines 221 and 225 and could control actin polymerization and cell adhesion. Among BI-1-/- cells and cells transfected with BI-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA), levels of actin polymerization and cell adhesion were lower than those among BI-1+/+ cells and cells transfected with nonspecific siRNA. BI-1 acts as a leaky Ca2+ channel, but mutations of the actin binding sites (L221A, L225A, and L221A/L225A) did not change intra-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+, although deleting the C-terminal motif (EKDKKKEKK) did. However, store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is activated in cells expressing BI-1 but not in cells expressing actin binding site mutants, even those with the intact C-terminal motif. Consistently, actin polymerization and cell adhesion were inhibited among all the mutant cells. Compared to BI-1+/+ cells, BI-1-/- cells inhibited SOCE, actin polymerization, and cell adhesion. Endogenous BI-1 knockdown cells showed a similar pattern. The C-terminal peptide of BI-1 (LMMLILAMNRKDKKKEKK) polymerized actin even after the deletion of four or six charged C-terminal residues. This indicates that the actin binding site containing L221 to D231 of BI-1 is responsible for actin interaction and that the C-terminal motif has only a supporting role. The intact C-terminal peptide also bundled actin and increased cell adhesion. The results of experiments with whole recombinant BI-1 reconstituted in membranes also coincide well with the results obtained with peptides. In summary, BI-1 increased actin polymerization and cell adhesion through Ca2+ regulation and actin interaction.

Acute insulin signaling in pancreatic beta-cells is mediated by multiple Raf-1 dependent pathways

Insulin enhances the proliferation and survival of pancreatic beta-cells, but its mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that Raf-1, a kinase upstream of both ERK and Bad, might be a critical target of insulin in beta-cells. To test this hypothesis, we treated human and mouse islets as well as MIN6 beta-cells with multiple insulin concentrations and examined putative downstream targets using immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, quantitative fluorescent imaging, and cell death assays. Low doses of insulin rapidly activated Raf-1 by dephosphorylating serine 259 and phosphorylating serine 338 in human islets, mouse islets, and MIN6 cells. The phosphorylation of ERK by insulin was eliminated by exposure to a Raf inhibitor (GW5074) or transfection with a dominant-negative Raf-1 mutant. Insulin also enhanced the interaction between mitochondrial Raf-1 and Bcl-2 agonist of cell death (Bad), promoting Bad inactivation via its phosphorylation on serine 112. Insulin-stimulated ERK phosphorylation was abrogated by calcium chelation, calcineurin and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II inhibitors, and Ned-19, a nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate receptor (NAADPR) antagonist. Blocking Raf-1 and Ca(2+) signaling resulted in nonadditive beta-cell death. Autocrine insulin signaling partly accounted for the effects of glucose on ERK phosphorylation. Our results demonstrate that Raf-1 is a critical target of insulin in primary beta-cells. Activation of Raf-1 leads to both an ERK-dependent pathway that involves nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-sensitive Ca(2+) stores and Ca(2+)-dependent phosphorylation events, and an ERK-independent pathway that involves Bad inactivation at the mitochondria. Together our findings identify a novel insulin signaling pathway in beta-cells and shed light on insulin's antiapoptotic and mitogenic mechanisms.

An ancestral deuterostome family of two-pore channels mediates nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-dependent calcium release from acidic organelles

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is a potent and widespread calcium-mobilizing messenger, the properties of which have been most extensively described in sea urchin eggs. The molecular basis for calcium release by NAADP, however, is not clear and subject to controversy. Recent studies have provided evidence that members of the two-pore channel (TPC) family in mammals are the long sought after target channels for NAADP. Here, we show that the TPC3 gene, which has yet to be functionally characterized, is present throughout the deuterostome lineage but is a pseudogene in humans and other primates. We report the molecular cloning of the complete ancestral TPC gene family from the sea urchin and demonstrate that all three isoforms localize to acidic organelles to mediate NAADP-dependent calcium release. Our data highlight the functional divergence of this novel gene family during deuterostome evolution and provide further evidence that NAADP mediates calcium release from acidic stores through activation of TPCs.

TRP channels of intracellular membranes

Ion channels are classically understood to regulate the flux of ions across the plasma membrane in response to a variety of environmental and intracellular cues. Ion channels serve a number of functions in intracellular membranes as well. These channels may be temporarily localized to intracellular membranes as a function of their biosynthetic or secretory pathways, i.e., en route to their destination location. Intracellular membrane ion channels may also be located in the endocytic pathways, either being recycled back to the plasma membrane or targeted to the lysosome for degradation. Several channels do participate in intracellular signal transduction; the most well known example is the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) in the endoplasmic reticulum. Some organellar intracellular membrane channels are required for the ionic homeostasis of their residing organelles. Several newly-discovered intracellular membrane Ca(2+) channels actually play active roles in membrane trafficking. Transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins are a superfamily (28 members in mammal) of Ca(2+)-permeable channels with diverse tissue distribution, subcellular localization, and physiological functions. Almost all mammalian TRP channels studied thus far, like their ancestor yeast TRP channel (TRPY1) that localizes to the vacuole compartment, are also (in addition to their plasma membrane localization) found to be localized to intracellular membranes. Accumulated evidence suggests that intracellularly-localized TRP channels actively participate in regulating membrane traffic, signal transduction, and vesicular ion homeostasis. This review aims to provide a summary of these recent works. The discussion will also be extended to the basic membrane and electrical properties of the TRP-residing compartments.

Mucolipins: Intracellular TRPML1-3 channels

The mucolipin family of Transient Receptor Potential (TRPML) proteins is predicted to encode ion channels expressed in intracellular endosomes and lysosomes. Loss-of-function mutations of human TRPML1 cause type IV mucolipidosis (ML4), a childhood neurodegenerative disease. Meanwhile, gain-of-function mutations in the mouse TRPML3 result in the varitint-waddler (Va) phenotype with hearing and pigmentation defects. The broad spectrum phenotypes of ML4 and Va appear to result from certain aspects of endosomal/lysosomal dysfunction. Lysosomes, traditionally believed to be the terminal "recycling center" for biological "garbage", are now known to play indispensable roles in intracellular signal transduction and membrane trafficking. Studies employing animal models and cell lines in which TRPML genes have been genetically disrupted or depleted have uncovered roles of TRPMLs in multiple cellular functions including membrane trafficking, signal transduction, and organellar ion homeostasis. Physiological assays of mammalian cell lines in which TRPMLs are heterologously overexpressed have revealed the channel properties of TRPMLs in mediating cation (Ca(2+)/Fe(2+)) efflux from endosomes and lysosomes in response to unidentified cellular cues. This review aims to summarize these recent advances in the TRPML field and to correlate the channel properties of endolysosomal TRPMLs with their biological functions. We will also discuss the potential cellular mechanisms by which TRPML deficiency leads to neurodegeneration.

The tissue-specific expression of TRPML2 (MCOLN-2) gene is influenced by the presence of TRPML1

Mucolipidosis type IV is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by the loss or dysfunction of the mucolipin-1 (TRPML1) protein. It has been suggested that TRPML2 could genetically compensate (i.e., become upregulated) for the loss of TRPML1. We thus investigated this possibility by first studying the expression pattern of mouse TRPML2 and its basic channel properties using the varitint-waddler (Va) model. Here, we confirmed the presence of long variant TRPML2 (TRPML2lv) and short variant (TRPML2sv) isoforms. We showed for the first time that, heterologously expressed, TRPML2lv-Va is an active, inwardly rectifying channel. Secondly, we quantitatively measured TRPML2 and TRPML3 mRNA expressions in TRPML1-/- null and wild-type (Wt) mice. In wild-type mice, the TRPML2lv transcripts were very low while TRPML2sv and TRPML3 transcripts have predominant expressions in lymphoid and kidney organs. Significant reductions of TRPML2sv, but not TRPML2lv or TRPML3 transcripts, were observed in lymphoid and kidney organs of TRPML1-/- mice. RNA interference of endogenous human TRPML1 in HEK-293 cells produced a comparable decrease of human TRPML2 transcript levels that can be restored by overexpression of human TRPML1. Conversely, significant upregulation of TRPML2sv transcripts was observed when primary mouse lymphoid cells were treated with nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate, or N-(2-[p-bromocinnamylamino]ethyl)-5-isoquinoline sulfonamide, both known activators of TRPML1. In conclusion, our results indicate that TRPML2 is unlikely to compensate for the loss of TRPML1 in lymphoid or kidney organs and that TRPML1 appears to play a novel role in the tissue-specific transcriptional regulation of TRPML2.

Lipids on trial: the search for the offending metabolite in Niemann-Pick type C disease

Niemann-Pick disease type C is a complex lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in either the NPC1 or NPC2 genes that is characterized at the cellular level by the storage of multiple lipids, defective lysosomal calcium homeostasis and unique trafficking defects. We review the potential role of each of the individual storage lipids in initiating the pathogenic cascade and propose a model of NPC1 and NPC2 function based on the current knowledge.

Aberrant Ca2+ handling in lysosomal storage disorders

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are caused by inability of cells to process the material captured during endocytosis. While they are essentially diseases of cellular "indigestion", LSDs affect large number of cellular activities and, as such, they teach us about the integrative function of the cell, as well as about the gaps in our knowledge of the endocytic pathway and membrane transport. The present review summarizes recent findings on Ca2+ handling in LSDs and attempts to identify the key questions on alterations in Ca2+ signaling and membrane transport in this group of diseases, answers to which may lie in delineating the cellular pathogeneses of LSDs.

Ca(2+) channels on the move

The versatility of Ca(2+) as an intracellular messenger derives largely from the spatial organization of cytosolic Ca(2+) signals, most of which are generated by regulated openings of Ca(2+)-permeable channels. Most Ca(2+) channels are expressed in the plasma membrane (PM). Others, including the almost ubiquitous inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)R) and their relatives, the ryanodine receptors (RyR), are predominantly expressed in membranes of the sarcoplasmic or endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Targeting of these channels to appropriate destinations underpins their ability to generate spatially organized Ca(2+) signals. All Ca(2+) channels begin life in the cytosol, and the vast majority are then functionally assembled in the ER, where they may either remain or be dispatched to other membranes. Here, by means of selective examples, we review two issues related to this trafficking of Ca(2+) channels via the ER. How do cells avoid wayward activity of Ca(2+) channels in transit as they pass from the ER via other membranes to their final destination? How and why do some cells express small numbers of the archetypal intracellular Ca(2+) channels, IP(3)R and RyR, in the PM?

Calcium signaling via two-pore channels: local or global, that is the question

Recently, we identified, for the first time, two-pore channels (TPCs, TPCN for gene name) as a novel family of nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP)-gated, endolysosome-targeted calcium release channels. Significantly, three subtypes of TPCs have been characterized, TPC1-3, with each being targeted to discrete acidic calcium stores, namely lysosomes (TPC2) and endosomes (TPC1 and TPC3). That TPCs act as NAADP-gated calcium release channels is clear, given that NAADP binds to high- and low-affinity sites associated with TPC2 and thereby induces calcium release and homologous desensitization, as observed in the case of endogenous NAADP receptors. Moreover, NAADP-evoked calcium signals via TPC2 are ablated by short hairpin RNA knockdown of TPC2 and by depletion of acidic calcium stores with bafilomycin. Importantly, however, NAADP-evoked calcium signals were biphasic in nature, with an initial phase of calcium release from lysosomes via TPC2, being subsequently amplified by calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In marked contrast, calcium release via endosome-targeted TPC1 induced only spatially restricted calcium signals that were not amplified by CICR from the ER. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms that cells may utilize to "filter" calcium signals via junctional complexes to determine whether a given signal remains local or is converted into a propagating global signal. Essentially, endosomes and lysosomes represent vesicular calcium stores, quite unlike the ER network, and TPCs do not themselves support CICR or, therefore, propagating regenerative calcium waves. Thus "quantal" vesicular calcium release via TPCs must subsequently recruit inositol 1,4,5-trisphoshpate receptors and/or ryanodine receptors on the ER by CICR to evoke a propagating calcium wave. This may call for a revision of current views on the mechanisms of intracellular calcium signaling. The purpose of this review is, therefore, to provide an appropriate framework for future studies in this area.

CD38-mediated Ca2+ signaling contributes to angiotensin II-induced activation of hepatic stellate cells: attenuation of hepatic fibrosis by CD38 ablation

CD38 is a type II glycoprotein that is responsible for the synthesis and hydrolysis of cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP), Ca(2+)-mobilizing second messengers. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a critical event in hepatic fibrosis because these cells are the main producers of extracellular matrix proteins in the liver. Recent evidence indicates that the renin-angiotensin system plays a major role in liver fibrosis. In this study, we showed that angiotensin II (Ang II) evoked long lasting Ca(2+) rises and induced NAADP or cADPR productions via CD38 in HSCs. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate as well as NAADP-induced initial Ca(2+) transients were prerequisite for the production of cADPR, which was responsible for later sustained Ca(2+) rises in the Ang II-treated HSCs. Ang II-mediated inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate- and NAADP-stimulated Ca(2+) signals cross-talked in a dependent manner with each other. We also demonstrated that CD38 plays an important role in Ang II-induced proliferation and overproduction of extracellular matrix proteins in HSCs, which were reduced by an antagonistic cADPR analog, 8-bromo-cADPR, or in CD38(-/-) HSCs. Moreover, we presented evidence to implicate CD38 in the bile duct ligation-induced liver fibrogenesis; infiltration of inflammatory cells and expressions of alpha-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-beta1, collagen alphaI(1), and fibronectin were reduced in CD38(-/-) mice compared with those in CD38(+/+) mice. These results demonstrate that CD38-mediated Ca(2+) signals contribute to liver fibrosis via HSCs activation, suggesting that intervention of CD38 activation may help prevent hepatic fibrosis.

In with the TRP channels: intracellular functions for TRPM1 and TRPM2

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a large family of cation channels, many of which are predominantly localized to the plasma membrane, where they transduce the effects of diverse and often sensory stimuli. Two members of the TRP melastatin subfamily, TRPM1 and TRPM2, are localized in intracellular compartments and are involved in melanin synthesis and oxidative stress-induced cell death, respectively. These findings provide new insight into the location and function of TRP channels.

Ion channel regulation by AMPK: the route of hypoxia-response coupling in thecarotid body and pulmonary artery

Vital homeostatic mechanisms monitor O2 supply and adjust respiratory and circulatory function to meet demand. The pulmonary arteries and carotid bodies are key systems in this respect. Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) aids ventilation-perfusion matching in the lung by diverting blood flow from areas with an O2 deficit to those rich in O2, while a fall in arterial pO2 increases sensory afferent discharge from the carotid body to elicit corrective changes in breathing patterns. We discuss here the new concept that hypoxia, by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation, activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) leading to consequent phosphorylation of target proteins, such as ion channels, which initiate pulmonary artery constriction and carotid body activation. Consistent with this view, AMPK knockout mice exhibit an impaired ventilatory response to hypoxia. Thus, AMPK may be sufficient and necessary for hypoxia-response coupling and may regulate O2 and thereby energy (ATP) supply at the whole body as well as the cellular level.

Analogues of the nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) antagonist Ned-19 indicate two binding sites on the NAADP receptor

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is a Ca(2+)-releasing messenger. Biological data suggest that its receptor has two binding sites: one high-affinity locking site and one low-affinity opening site. To directly address the presence and function of these putative binding sites, we synthesized and tested analogues of the NAADP antagonist Ned-19. Ned-19 itself inhibits both NAADP-mediated Ca(2+) release and NAADP binding. A fluorometry bioassay was used to assess NAADP-mediated Ca(2+) release, whereas a radioreceptor assay was used to assess binding to the NAADP receptor (only at the high-affinity site). In Ned-20, the fluorine is para rather than ortho as in Ned-19. Ned-20 does not inhibit NAADP-mediated Ca(2+) release but inhibits NAADP binding. Conversely, Ned-19.4 (a methyl ester of Ned-19) inhibits NAADP-mediated Ca(2+) release but cannot inhibit NAADP binding. Furthermore, Ned-20 prevents the self-desensitization response characteristic of NAADP in sea urchin eggs, confirming that this response is mediated by a high-affinity allosteric site to which NAADP binds in the radioreceptor assay. Collectively, these data provide the first direct evidence for two binding sites (one high- and one low-affinity) on the NAADP receptor.

Calcium Pumps in Health and Disease

Ca2+-ATPases (pumps) are key actors in the regulation of Ca2+ in eukaryotic cells and are thus essential to the correct functioning of the cell machinery. They have high affinity for Ca2+ and can efficiently regulate it down to very low concentration levels. Two of the pumps have been known for decades (the SERCA and PMCA pumps); one (the SPCA pump) has only become known recently. Each pump is the product of a multigene family, the number of isoforms being further increased by alternative splicing of the primary transcripts. The three pumps share the basic features of the catalytic mechanism but differ in a number of properties related to tissue distribution, regulation, and role in the cellular homeostasis of Ca2+. The molecular understanding of the function of the pumps has received great impetus from the solution of the three-dimensional structure of one of them, the SERCA pump. These spectacular advances in the structure and molecular mechanism of the pumps have been accompanied by the emergence and rapid expansion of the topic of pump malfunction, which has paralleled the rapid expansion of knowledge in the topic of Ca2+-signaling dysfunction. Most of the pump defects described so far are genetic: when they are very severe, they produce gross and global disturbances of Ca2+ homeostasis that are incompatible with cell life. However, pump defects may also be of a type that produce subtler, often tissue-specific disturbances that affect individual components of the Ca2+-controlling and/or processing machinery. They do not bring cells to immediate death but seriously compromise their normal functioning.

Recruitment of NAADP-sensitive acidic Ca2+ stores by glutamate

NAADP (nicotinic acid-adenine dinucleotide phosphate) is an unusual second messenger thought to mobilize acidic Ca(2+) stores, such as lysosomes or lysosome-like organelles, that are functionally coupled to the ER (endoplasmic reticulum). Although NAADP-sensitive Ca(2+) stores have been described in neurons, the physiological cues that recruit them are not known. Here we show that in both hippocampal neurons and glia, extracellular application of glutamate, in the absence of external Ca(2+), evoked cytosolic Ca(2+) signals that were inhibited by preventing organelle acidification or following osmotic bursting of lysosomes. The sensitivity of both cell types to glutamate correlated well with lysosomal Ca(2+) content. However, interfering with acidic compartments was largely without effect on the Ca(2+) content of the ER or Ca(2+) signals in response to ATP. Glutamate but not ATP elevated cellular NAADP levels. Our results provide evidence for the agonist-specific recruitment of NAADP-sensitive Ca(2+) stores by glutamate. This links the actions of NAADP to a major neurotransmitter in the brain.

Insulin crystallization depends on zinc transporter ZnT8 expression, but is not required for normal glucose homeostasis in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2009;106:14872-14877. [PMID: 19706465 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0906587106]

Zinc co-crystallizes with insulin in dense core secretory granules, but its role in insulin biosynthesis, storage and secretion is unknown. In this study we assessed the role of the zinc transporter ZnT8 using ZnT8-knockout (ZnT8(-/-)) mice. Absence of ZnT8 expression caused loss of zinc release upon stimulation of exocytosis, but normal rates of insulin biosynthesis, normal insulin content and preserved glucose-induced insulin release. Ultrastructurally, mature dense core insulin granules were rare in ZnT8(-/-) beta cells and were replaced by immature, pale insulin "progranules," which were larger than in ZnT8(+/+) islets. When mice were fed a control diet, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were normal. However, after high-fat diet feeding, the ZnT8(-/-) mice became glucose intolerant or diabetic, and islets became less responsive to glucose. Our data show that the ZnT8 transporter is essential for the formation of insulin crystals in beta cells, contributing to the packaging efficiency of stored insulin. Interaction between the ZnT8(-/-) genotype and diet to induce diabetes is a model for further studies of the mechanism of disease of human ZNT8 gene mutations.

Modulation of B-cell endoplasmic reticulum calcium homeostasis by Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein-1

Background

Calcium signaling plays an important role in B lymphocyte survival and activation, and is critically dependent on the inositol-1,4,5-tris-phosphate-induced release of calcium stored in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Calcium is accumulated in the ER by Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPases (SERCA enzymes), and therefore these enzymes play an important role in ER calcium homeostasis and in the control of B of cell activation. Because Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can immortalize B cells and contributes to lymphomagenesis, in this work the effects of the virus on SERCA-type calcium pump expression and calcium accumulation in the endoplasmic reticulum of B cells was investigated.

Results

Two Sarco-Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium transport ATPase isoforms, the low Ca²⁺-affinity SERCA3, and the high Ca²⁺-affinity SERCA2 enzymes are simultaneously expressed in B cells. Latency type III infection of Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines with immortalization-competent virus expressing the full set of latency genes selectively decreased the expression of SERCA3 protein, whereas infection with immortalization-deficient virus that does not express the EBNA2 or LMP-1 viral genes was without effect. Down-modulation of SERCA3 expression could be observed upon LMP-1, but not EBNA2 expression in cells carrying inducible transgenes, and LMP-1 expression was associated with enhanced resting cytosolic calcium levels and increased calcium storage in the endoplasmic reticulum. Similarly to virus-induced B cell immortalisation, SERCA3 expression was also decreased in normal B cells undergoing activation and blastic transformation in germinal centers of lymph node follicles.

Conclusion

The data presented in this work indicate that EBV-induced immortalization leads to the remodelling of ER calcium homeostasis of B cells by LMP-1 that copies a previously unknown normal phenomenon taking place during antigen driven B cell activation. The functional remodelling of ER calcium homeostasis by down-regulation of SERCA3 expression constitutes a previously unknown mechanism involved in EBV-induced B cell immortalisation.

Essential requirement for two-pore channel 1 in NAADP-mediated calcium signaling

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is a widespread and potent calcium-mobilizing messenger that is highly unusual in activating calcium channels located on acidic stores. However, the molecular identity of the target protein is unclear. In this study, we show that the previously uncharacterized human two-pore channels (TPC1 and TPC2) are endolysosomal proteins, that NAADP-mediated calcium signals are enhanced by overexpression of TPC1 and attenuated after knockdown of TPC1, and that mutation of a single highly conserved residue within a putative pore region abrogated calcium release by NAADP. Thus, TPC1 is critical for NAADP action and is likely the long sought after target channel for NAADP.

A voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx pathway regulates the Ca2+-dependent Cl(-) conductance of renal IMCD-3 cells

We have previously shown that the membrane conductance of mIMCD-3 cells at a holding potential of 0 mV is dominated by a Ca2+-dependent Cl(-) current (I(CLCA)). Here we report that I(CLCA) activity is also voltage dependent and that this dependence on voltage is linked to the opening of a novel Al3+-sensitive, voltage-dependent, Ca2+ influx pathway. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings at a physiological holding potential (-60 mV), ICLCA was found to be inactive and resting currents were predominantly K+ selective. However, membrane depolarization to 0 mV resulted in a slow, sigmoidal, activation of ICLCA (T(0.5) approximately 500 s), while repolarization in turn resulted in a monoexponential decay in I(CLCA) (T (0.5) approximately 100 s). The activation of I(CLCA) by depolarization was reduced by lowering extracellular Ca2+ and completely inhibited by buffering cytosolic Ca2+ with EGTA, suggesting a role for Ca2+ influx in the activation of I(CLCA). However, raising bulk cytosolic Ca2+ at -60 mV did not produce sustained I(CLCA) activity. Therefore I(CLCA) is dependent on both an increase in intracellular Ca2+ and depolarization to be active. We further show that membrane depolarization is coupled to opening of a Ca2+ influx pathway that displays equal permeability to Ca2+ and Ba2+ ions and that is blocked by extracellular Al3+ and La3+. Furthermore, Al3+ completely and reversibly inhibited depolarization-induced activation of ICLCA, thereby directly linking Ca2+ influx to activation of I(CLCA). We speculate that during sustained membrane depolarization, calcium influx activates ICLCA which functions to modulate NaCl transport across the apical membrane of IMCD cells.

The two-pore channel TPCN2 mediates NAADP-dependent Ca(2+)-release from lysosomal stores

Second messenger-induced Ca²⁺-release from intracellular stores plays a key role in a multitude of physiological processes. In addition to 1,4,5-inositol trisphosphate (IP₃), Ca²⁺, and cyclic ADP ribose (cADPR) that trigger Ca²⁺-release from the endoplasmatic reticulum (ER), nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) has been identified as a cellular metabolite that mediates Ca²⁺-release from lysosomal stores. While NAADP-induced Ca²⁺-release has been found in many tissues and cell types, the molecular identity of the channel(s) conferring this release remained elusive so far. Here, we show that TPCN2, a novel member of the two-pore cation channel family, displays the basic properties of native NAADP-dependent Ca²⁺-release channels. TPCN2 transcripts are widely expressed in the body and encode a lysosomal protein forming homomers. TPCN2 mediates intracellular Ca²⁺-release after activation with low-nanomolar concentrations of NAADP while it is desensitized by micromolar concentrations of this second messenger and is insensitive to the NAADP analog nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP). Furthermore, TPCN2-mediated Ca²⁺-release is almost completely abolished when the capacity of lysosomes for storing Ca²⁺ is pharmacologically blocked. By contrast, TPCN2-specific Ca²⁺-release is unaffected by emptying ER-based Ca²⁺ stores. In conclusion, these findings indicate that TPCN2 is a major component of the long-sought lysosomal NAADP-dependent Ca²⁺-release channel.

Ca2+-stores in sperm: their identities and functions

Intracellular Ca2+ stores play a central role in the regulation of cellular [Ca2+](i) and the generation of complex [Ca2+] signals such as oscillations and waves. Ca2+ signalling is of particular significance in sperm cells, where it is a central regulator in many key activities (including capacitation, hyperactivation, chemotaxis and acrosome reaction) yet mature sperm lack endoplasmic reticulum and several other organelles that serve as Ca2+ stores in somatic cells. Here, we review i) the evidence for the expression in sperm of the molecular components (pumps and channels) which are functionally significant in the activity of Ca2+ stores of somatic cells and ii) the evidence for the existence of functional Ca2+ stores in sperm. This evidence supports the existence of at least two storage organelles in mammalian sperm, one in the acrosomal region and another in the region of the sperm neck and midpiece. We then go on to discuss the probable identity of these organelles and their discrete functions: regulation by the acrosome of its own secretion and regulation by membranous organelles at the sperm neck (and possibly by the mitochondria) of flagellar activity and hyperactivation. Finally, we consider the ability of the sperm discretely to control mobilisation of these stores and the functional interaction of stored Ca2+ at the sperm neck/midpiece with CatSper channels in the principal piece in regulation of the activities of mammalian sperm.

The acid test: the discovery of two-pore channels (TPCs) as NAADP-gated endolysosomal Ca(2+) release channels

In this review, we describe the background and implications of our recent discovery that two-pore channels (TPCs) comprise a novel class of calcium release channels gated by the intracellular messenger nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP). Their localisation to the endolysosomal system highlights a new function for these organelles as targets for NAADP-mediated Ca(2+) mobilisation. In addition, we describe how TPCs may also trigger further Ca(2+) release by coupling to the endoplasmic reticular stores through activation of IP(3) receptors and ryanodine receptors.

NAADP receptors mediate calcium signaling stimulated by endothelin-1 and norepinephrine in renal afferent arterioles

The enzyme ADP-ribosyl (ADPR) cyclase plays a significant role in mediating increases in renal afferent arteriolar cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in vitro and renal vasoconstriction in vivo. ADPR cyclase produces cyclic ADP ribose, a second messenger that contributes importantly to ryanodine receptor-mediated Ca(2+) mobilization in renal vascular responses to several vasoconstrictors. Recent studies in nonrenal vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) have shown that nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP), another second messenger generated by ADPR cyclase, may contribute to Ca(2+) signaling. We tested the hypothesis that a Ca(2+) signaling pathway involving NAADP receptors participates in afferent arteriolar [Ca(2+)](i) responses to the G protein-coupled receptor agonists endothelin-1 (ET-1) and norepinephrine (NE). To test this, we isolated rat renal afferent arterioles and measured [Ca(2+)](I) using fura-2 fluorescence. We compared peak [Ca(2+)](i) increases stimulated by ET-1 and NE in the presence and absence of inhibitors of acidic organelle-dependent Ca(2+) signaling and NAADP receptors. Vacuolar H(+)-ATPase inhibitors bafilomycin A1 and concanamycin A, disruptors of pH and Ca(2+) stores of lysosomes and other acidic organelles, individually antagonized [Ca(2+)](i) responses to ET-1 and NE by 40-50% (P < 0.05). The recently discovered NAADP receptor inhibitor Ned-19 attenuated [Ca(2+)](i) responses to ET-1 or NE by 60-70% (P < 0.05). We conclude that NAADP receptors contribute to both ET-1- and NE-induced [Ca(2+)](i) responses in afferent arterioles, an effect likely dependent on acidic vesicle, possibly involving lysosome, signaling in VSMC in the renal microcirculation.

Determination of apparent calcium affinity for endogenously expressed human sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase isoform SERCA3

The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases (SERCAs) play a crucial role in regulating free cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in diverse cell types. It has been shown that recombinant SERCA3, when measured in heterologous systems, exhibits low apparent affinity for Ca2+; however, Ca2+ affinity of native SERCA3 in an endogenous setting has not been examined. Such a measurement is complicated, because SERCA3 is always coexpressed with the housekeeping isoform SERCA2b. We used a fluorescence-based assay for monitoring continuous Ca2+ uptake into microsomes to examine the properties of endogenous human SERCA3 and SERCA2b. The kinetic parameters were derived using a cooperative two-component uptake model for Ca2+ activation, and the values assigned to SERCA3 were confirmed using the highly specific human SERCA3 inhibitory antibody PL/IM430. First, using recombinant human SERCA3 and SERCA2b proteins transiently expressed in HEK-293 cells, we confirmed the previously observed low apparent Ca2+ affinity for SERCA3 compared with SERCA2b (1.10 ± 0.04 vs. 0.26 ± 0.01 μM), and using mixtures of recombinant protein isoforms, we validated the two-component uptake model. Then we determined apparent Ca2+ affinity for SERCA proteins present endogenously in cultured Jurkat T lymphocytes and freshly isolated human tonsil lymphocytes. The apparent Ca2+ affinity in these two preparations was 1.04 ± 0.07 and 1.1 ± 0.2 μM for SERCA3 and 0.27 ± 0.02 and 0.26 ± 0.01 μM for SERCA2b, respectively. Our data demonstrate, for the first time, that affinity for Ca2+ is inherently lower for SERCA3 expressed in situ than for other SERCA isoforms.