The Lens Circulation

Dynamic functional contribution of the water channel AQP5 to the water permeability of peripheral lens fiber cells

Although the functionality of the lens water channels aquaporin 1 (AQP1; epithelium) and AQP0 (fiber cells) is well established, less is known about the role of AQP5 in the lens. Since in other tissues AQP5 functions as a regulated water channel with a water permeability (P_H2O) some 20 times higher than AQP0, AQP5 could function to modulate P_H2O in lens fiber cells. To test this possibility, a fluorescence dye dilution assay was used to calculate the relative P_H2O of epithelial cells and fiber membrane vesicles isolated from either the mouse or rat lens, in the absence and presence of HgCl₂, an inhibitor of AQP1 and AQP5. Immunolabeling of lens sections and fiber membrane vesicles from mouse and rat lenses revealed differences in the subcellular distributions of AQP5 in the outer cortex between species, with AQP5 being predominantly membranous in the mouse but predominantly cytoplasmic in the rat. In contrast, AQP0 labeling was always membranous in both species. This species-specific heterogeneity in AQP5 membrane localization was mirrored in measurements of P_H2O, with only fiber membrane vesicles isolated from the mouse lens, exhibiting a significant Hg²⁺-sensitive contribution to P_H2O. When rat lenses were first organ cultured, immunolabeling revealed an insertion of AQP5 into cortical fiber cells, and a significant increase in Hg²⁺-sensitive P_H2O was detected in membrane vesicles. Our results show that AQP5 forms functional water channels in the rodent lens, and they suggest that dynamic membrane insertion of AQP5 may regulate water fluxes in the lens by modulating P_H2O in the outer cortex.

β1-Integrin Deletion From the Lens Activates Cellular Stress Responses Leading to Apoptosis and Fibrosis

Purpose

Previous research showed that the absence of β1-integrin from the mouse lens after embryonic day (E) 13.5 (β1MLR10) leads to the perinatal apoptosis of lens epithelial cells (LECs) resulting in severe microphthalmia. This study focuses on elucidating the molecular connections between β1-integrin deletion and this phenotype.

Methods

RNA sequencing was performed to identify differentially regulated genes (DRGs) in β1MLR10 lenses at E15.5. By using bioinformatics analysis and literature searching, Egr1 (early growth response 1) was selected for further study. The activation status of certain signaling pathways (focal adhesion kinase [FAK]/Erk, TGF-β, and Akt signaling) was studied via Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Mice lacking both β1-integrin and Egr1 genes from the lenses were created (β1MLR10/Egr1-/-) to study their relationship.

Results

RNA sequencing identified 120 DRGs that include candidates involved in the cellular stress response, fibrosis, and/or apoptosis. Egr1 was investigated in detail, as it mediates cellular stress responses in various cell types, and is recognized as an upstream regulator of numerous other β1MLR10 lens DRGs. In β1MLR10 mice, Egr1 levels are elevated shortly after β1-integrin loss from the lens. Further, pErk1/2 and pAkt are elevated in β1MLR10 LECs, thus providing the potential signaling mechanism that causes Egr1 upregulation in the mutant. Indeed, deletion of Egr1 from β1MLR10 lenses partially rescues the microphthalmia phenotype.

Conclusions

β1-integrin regulates the appropriate levels of Erk1/2 and Akt phosphorylation in LECs, whereas its deficiency results in the overexpression of Egr1, culminating in reduced cell survival. These findings provide insight into the molecular mechanism underlying the microphthalmia observed in β1MLR10 mice.

Activation of a Ca2+-dependent cation conductance with properties of TRPM2 by reactive oxygen species in lens epithelial cells

Ion channels are crucial for maintenance of ion homeostasis and transparency of the lens. The lens epithelium is the metabolically and electrophysiologically active cell type providing nutrients, ions and water to the lens fiber cells. Ca2+-dependent non-selective ion channels seem to play an important role for ion homeostasis. The aim of the study was to identify and characterize Ca2+- and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent non-selective cation channels in human lens epithelial cells. RT-PCR revealed gene expression of the Ca2+-activated non-selective cation channels TRPC3, TRPM2, TRPM4 and Ano6 in both primary lens epithelial cells and the cell line HLE-B3, whereas TRPM5 mRNA was only found in HLE-B3 cells. Using whole-cell patch-clamp technique, ionomycin evoked non-selective cation currents with linear current-voltage relationship in both cell types. The current was decreased by flufenamic acid (FFA), 2-APB, 9-phenanthrol and miconazole, but insensitive to DIDS, ruthenium red, and intracellularly applied spermine. H2O2 evoked a comparable current, abolished by FFA. TRPM2 protein expression in HLE-B3 cells was confirmed by means of immunocytochemistry and western blot. In summary, we conclude that lens epithelial cells functionally express Ca2+- and H2O2-activated non-selective cation channels with properties of TRPM2.

Connexin 50 Functions as an Adhesive Molecule and Promotes Lens Cell Differentiation

Connexins play essential roles in lens homeostasis and development. Here, we identified a new role for Cx50 that mediates cell-cell adhesion function. Cx50 enhanced the adhesive capability of AQP0. Interestingly, the expression of Cx50 alone promoted cell adhesion at a comparable level to AQP0; however, this cell adhesive function was not observed with other lens connexins, Cx43 and Cx46. Moreover, the adhesive property occurred in both homotypic with Cx50 expressed in both pairing cells and heterotypic with Cx50 in only one pairing cell, and this function appears to be unrelated to its role in forming gap junction channels. Cx50 KO lenses exhibited increased intercellular spaces between lens fiber cells. The second extracellular loop domain (E2) is primarily responsible for this adhesive function. Treatment with a fusion protein containing E2 domain inhibited cell adhesion. Furthermore, disruption of cell adhesion by the E2 domains impaired primary lens cell differentiation. Five critical amino acid residues in the E2 domain primarily are involved in cell adhesive function as well as lens epithelial-fiber differentiation. Together, these results suggest that in addition to forming gap junction channels, Cx50 acts as an adhesive molecule that is critical in maintaining lens fiber integrity and epithelial-fiber differentiation.

Cholesterol Bilayer Domains in the Eye Lens Health: A Review

The most unique biochemical characteristic of the eye lens fiber cell plasma membrane is its extremely high cholesterol content, the need for which is still unclear. It is evident, however, that the disturbance of Chol homeostasis may result in damages associated with cataracts. Electron paramagnetic resonance methods allow discrimination of two types of lipid domains in model membranes overloaded with Chol, namely, phospholipid-cholesterol domains and pure Chol bilayer domains. These domains are also detected in human lens lipid membranes prepared from the total lipids extracted from lens cortices and nuclei of donors from different age groups. Independent of the age-related changes in phospholipid composition, the physical properties of phospholipid-Chol domains remain the same for all age groups and are practically identical for cortical and nuclear membranes. The presence of Chol bilayer domains in these membranes provides a buffering capacity for cholesterol concentration in the surrounding phospholipid-Chol domains, keeping it at a constant saturating level and thus keeping the physical properties of the membrane consistent with and independent of changes in phospholipid composition. It seems that the presence of Chol bilayer domains plays an integral role in the regulation of cholesterol-dependent processes in fiber cell plasm membranes and in the maintenance of fiber cell membrane homeostasis.

Comparison of the expression and spatial localization of glucose transporters in the rat, bovine and human lens

The energy required to drive lens transparency is derived from the metabolism of glucose. In the lens, the uptake of glucose is likely to involve either facilitative glucose uptake mediated by members of the GLUT family or Na⁺ dependent glucose uptake via members of the SGLT family, or both. While GLUT1 and GLUT3 have previously been identified in the rat lens, the expression of SGLTs is unknown. Since antibodies directed against the N and C-terminal epitopes of the GLUT and SGLT family are now commercially available, the purpose of this study is to extend our screening of glucose transporters in the rat lens to include the SGLTs and compare the expression profiles of GLUTs and SGLTs in the different regions of the rat, bovine and human lens. Using a combination of reverse transcriptase PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry, we have shown that GLUT1 appears to be the predominant glucose transporter in the rat lens since it was expressed in all regions of the lens. In contrast GLUT3, SGLT1 and SGLT2 had more restricted expression patterns and were only found localised to the inner cortex and core regions of the rat lens. GLUT1 was the only transporter found in the epithelium and appears to exist as a full length form in this region, while in differentiating fiber cells; GLUT1 appears to undergo a modification to its N-terminus. Translating our work to bovine and human lenses revealed that GLUT1 is the only glucose transporter expressed in bovine and human lenses. While GLUT1 in the bovine lens appears to be unmodified throughout the entire lens, GLUT1 in human lenses appears to be N-terminally modified in all regions, including the epithelium. Finally, it appears that GLUT1 expression is maintained in all regions of the human lens with increasing age indicating that there is no further regional or age-dependent processing of GLUT1 in the human lens. Taken together, these studies have identified GLUT1 to be the primary transporter that mediates glucose uptake in the rat, bovine and human lens.

Focus on lens connexins

The lens is an avascular organ composed of an anterior epithelial cell layer and fiber cells that form the bulk of the organ. The lens expresses connexin43 (Cx43), connexin46 (Cx46) and connexin50 (Cx50). Epithelial Cx50 has critical roles in cell proliferation and differentiation, likely involving growth factor-dependent signaling pathways. Both Cx46 and Cx50 are crucial for lens transparency; mutations in their genes have been linked to congenital and age-related cataracts. Congenital cataract-associated connexin mutants can affect protein trafficking, stability and/or function, and the functional effects may differ between gap junction channels and hemichannels. Dominantly inherited cataracts may result from effects of the connexin mutant on its wild type isotype, the other co-expressed wild type connexin and/or its interaction with other cellular components.

Sub-nanometre mapping of the aquaporin-water interface using multifrequency atomic force microscopy

Aquaporins are integral membrane proteins that regulate the transport of water and small molecules in and out of the cell. In eye lens tissue, circulation of water, ions and metabolites is ensured by a microcirculation system in which aquaporin-0 (AQP0) plays a central role. AQP0 allows water to flow beyond the diffusion limit through lens membranes. AQP0 naturally arranges in a square lattice. The malfunction of AQP0 is related to numerous diseases such as cataracts. Despite considerable research into its structure, function and dynamics, the interface between the protein and the surrounding liquid and the effect of the lattice arrangement on the behaviour of water at the interface with the membrane are still not fully understood. Here we use a multifrequency atomic force microscopy (AFM) approach to map both the liquid at the interface with AQP0 and the protein itself with sub-nanometer resolution. Imaging using the fundamental eigenmode of the AFM cantilever probes mainly the interfacial water at the surface of the membrane. The results highlight a well-defined region that surrounds AQP0 tetramers and where water exhibits a higher affinity for the protein. Imaging in the second eigenmode is dominated by the mechanical response of the protein and provides sub-molecular details of the protein surface and the sub-surface structure. The relationship between modes and harmonics is also examined.

Identification and Functional Assessment of Age-Dependent Truncations to Cx46 and Cx50 in the Human Lens

PURPOSE

Many proteins in the lens undergo extensive posttranslational modifications (PTMs) with age, leading to alterations in their function. The extent to which lens gap junction proteins, Cx46 and Cx50, accumulate PTMs with aging is not known. In this study, we identified truncations in Cx46 and Cx50 in the human lens using mass spectrometry. We also examined the effect of truncations on channel function using electrophysiological measurements.

METHODS

Human lenses were dissected into cortex, outer nucleus, and nucleus regions, and fiber cell membranes were subjected to trypsin digestion. Tryptic peptides were analyzed by liquid chromatography (LC)-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (ESI/MS/MS). Effects of truncations on channel conductance, permeability, and gating were assessed in transfected cells.

RESULTS

Cleavage sites were identified in the C-terminus, the cytoplasmic loop, and the N-terminus of Cx46 and Cx50. Levels of C-terminal truncations, which were found at residues 238 to 251 in Cx46 and at residues 238 to 253 and 274 to 284 in Cx50, were similar in different lens regions. In contrast, levels of truncations in cytoplasmic loop and N-terminal domains of Cx46 and Cx50 increased dramatically from outer cortex to nucleus. Most of the C-terminally truncated proteins were functional, whereas truncations in the cytoplasmic loop did not result in the formation of functional channels.

CONCLUSIONS

Accumulation of cytoplasmic loop and N-terminal truncations in the core might lead to decreases in coupling with age. This reduction is expected to lead to an increase in intracellular calcium and a decrease in levels of glutathione in the nucleus. These changes may ultimately lead to age-related nuclear cataracts.

Feedback Regulation of Intracellular Hydrostatic Pressure in Surface Cells of the Lens

In wild-type lenses from various species, an intracellular hydrostatic pressure gradient goes from ∼340 mmHg in central fiber cells to 0 mmHg in surface cells. This gradient drives a center-to-surface flow of intracellular fluid. In lenses in which gap-junction coupling is increased, the central pressure is lower, whereas if gap-junction coupling is reduced, the central pressure is higher but surface pressure is always zero. Recently, we found that surface cell pressure was elevated in PTEN null lenses. This suggested disruption of a feedback control system that normally maintained zero surface cell pressure. Our purpose in this study was to investigate and characterize this feedback control system. We measured intracellular hydrostatic pressures in mouse lenses using a microelectrode/manometer-based system. We found that all feedback went through transport by the Na/K ATPase, which adjusted surface cell osmolarity such that pressure was maintained at zero. We traced the regulation of Na/K ATPase activity back to either TRPV4, which sensed positive pressure and stimulated activity, or TRPV1, which sensed negative pressure and inhibited activity. The inhibitory effect of TRPV1 on Na/K pumps was shown to signal through activation of the PI3K/AKT axis. The stimulatory effect of TRPV4 was shown in previous studies to go through a different signal transduction path. Thus, there is a local two-legged feedback control system for pressure in lens surface cells. The surface pressure provides a pedestal on which the pressure gradient sits, so surface pressure determines the absolute value of pressure at each radial location. We speculate that the absolute value of intracellular pressure may set the radial gradient in the refractive index, which is essential for visual acuity.

The Significance of TRPV4 Channels and Hemichannels in the Lens and Ciliary Epithelium

To function normally, all cells must maintain ion homeostasis, establish a membrane potential, and regulate water content. These actions require active Na-K transport provided by Na,K-ATPase. The lens, however, is made up almost entirely of fiber cells that have little or no Na,K-ATPase activity. Lens ion and water homeostasis rely on Na,K-ATPase activity in a small number of cells at the periphery of epithelium monolayer. Therefore, the function of the epithelium must be integrated with the needs of the fiber mass. This suggests that a remote control mechanism may adjust Na,K-ATPase activity to match increases or decreases of ion leakage, which may occur a considerable distance away. Here, we review evidence that TRPV4 channels in the epithelium become activated when the lens is subjected to osmotic- or damage-induced swelling. This triggers a chain of events in the lens epithelium that opens connexin hemichannels, allowing ATP release that stimulates purinergic receptors, activates Src family tyrosine kinases, and increases Na,K-ATPase activity. Recent studies also revealed functional connexin hemichannels along with TRPV4 channels in nonpigmented ciliary epithelial (NPE) cells that secrete aqueous humor into the eye. Because TRPV4 channels are mechanosensitive, we speculate they might enable the NPE to respond to stimuli such as mechanical distortion associated with volume homeostasis during fluid transfer across the ciliary epithelium or changes in intraocular pressure.

A novel MIP mutation in familial congenital nuclear cataracts

We screened 60 known genes which are involved in inherited cataract in a pregnant woman with a four-generation family history of autosomal dominant congenital nuclear cataract through next-generation sequencing (NGS) and identified a heterozygous mutation, c.508dupC (p.L170fs), in the major intrinsic protein (MIP) gene. This mutation results in a frame-shift in MIP and has not been previously reported. The correlation of the mutation with disease was validated by Sanger sequencing of DNA from the other affected or unaffected members of the family. Therefore, our data expand the mutation spectrum of MIP mutation, and suggest that NGS is an accurate, rapid, and cost-effective method in the genetic diagnosis of congenital nuclear cataract.

Spatial distributions of phosphorylated membrane proteins aquaporin 0 and MP20 across young and aged human lenses

In the human ocular lens it is now realized that post-translational modifications can alter protein function and/or localization in fiber cells that no longer synthesize proteins. The specific sites of post-translational modification to the abundant ocular lens membrane proteins AQP0 and MP20 have been previously identified and their functional effects are emerging. To further understand how changes in protein function and/or localization induced by these modifications alter lens homeostasis, it is necessary to determine the spatial distributions of these modifications across the lens. In this study, a quantitative LC-MS approach was used to determine the spatial distributions of phosphorylated AQP0 and MP20 peptides from manually dissected, concentric layers of fiber cells from young and aged human lenses. The absolute amounts of phosphorylation were determined for AQP0 Ser235 and Ser229 and for MP20 Ser170 in fiber cells from the lens periphery to the lens center. Phosphorylation of AQP0 Ser229 represented a minor portion of the total phosphorylated AQP0. Changes in spatial distributions of phosphorylated APQ0 Ser235 and MP20 Ser170 correlated with regions of physiological interest in aged lenses, specifically, where barriers to water transport and extracellular diffusion form.

Novel roles for the lens in preserving overall ocular health

Outside the traditional roles of the lens as an important refractive element and a UV filter, it was David Beebe's group that first demonstrated that the lens acts an oxygen sink that protects the tissues of the anterior segment of the eye from oxygen or oxygen metabolites. In this review, we follow on from this work, and present new evidence from our laboratory to demonstrate that the lens serves as a reservoir for the release of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) into the aqueous humor to provide a source of GSH and/or its precursor amino acids to nearby tissues that interface with the aqueous humor, or to remove toxic metabolites from the eye via the aqueous outflow pathway. In addition to GSH release, our laboratory and others have shown that ATP is released from the lens under hyposmotic conditions to activate purinergic signalling pathways in an autocrine manner to alter lens function. In this review, we raise the idea that ATP and/or its subsequent degradation product adenosine may exert a paracrine function and influence purinergic signalling systems in other tissues to alter aqueous humor outflow. These new secondary roles indicate that the lens is not just a passive optical element, but a highly dynamic and active tissue that interacts with its neighbouring tissues, through modifying the environments in which these tissues function. We believe that the lens actively contributes to the ocular environment and as a consequence, removal of the lens would alter the functionality of neighbouring tissues. We speculate that a long term effect of lens removal may be to inadvertently increase the exposure of anterior tissues of the eye to oxidative stress due to elevated oxygen levels and a reduction in the availability of GSH and purinergic signalling molecules in the aqueous humor. Since cataract surgery is now being performed on younger patients due to our increasing diabetic population, over time, we predict these changes may increase the susceptibility of these tissues to oxidative stress and the incidence of subsequent ocular pathologies. If our view of the lens is correct, the actual loss of the biological lens may have longer term consequences for overall ocular health than currently appreciated.

Featured Article: Inhibition of diabetic cataract by glucose tolerance factor extracted from yeast

Diabetes leads to many complications; among them is the development of cataract. Hyperglycemia brings to increased polyol concentration in the lens, to glycation of lens proteins, and to elevated level of ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) causing oxidative stress. The glucose tolerance factor (GTF) was found by several groups to decrease hyperglycemia and oxidative stress both in diabetic animals and humans. The aim of our study was to explore the damages induced by high glucose to the eye lens and to assess the protective effects of GTF both in vivo and in vitro The in vivo study included control healthy rats, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic untreated rats, and STZ diabetic rats orally treated with 15 doses of GTF. The diabetic untreated rats developed cataracts, whereas the development of cataract was totally or partially prevented in GTF treated animals. In vitro studies were done on bovine lenses incubated for 14 days. Half of the lenses were incubated in normal glucose conditions, and half in high glucose conditions (450 mg%). To one group of the normal or high glucose condition GTF was added. The optical quality of all the lenses was measured daily by an automated scanning laser system. The control lenses, whether with or without GTF addition, did not show any reduction in their quality. High glucose conditions induced optical damage to the lenses. Addition of GTF to high glucose conditions prevented this damage. High glucose conditions affected the activity of aldose reductase and sodium potassium ATPase in lens epithelial cell. Addition of GTF decreased the destructive changes induced by high glucose conditions. The amount of soluble cortical lens proteins was decreased and structural changes were detected in lenses incubated in high glucose medium. These changes could be prevented when GTF was added to high glucose medium. Our findings demonstrate the anticataractogenic potential of GTF.

The cause and consequence of fiber cell compaction in the vertebrate lens

Fiber cells of the ocular lens are arranged in a series of concentric shells. New growth shells are added continuously to the lens surface and, as a consequence, the preexisting shells are buried. To focus light, the refractive index of the lens cytoplasm must exceed that of the surrounding aqueous and vitreous humors, and to that end, lens cells synthesize high concentrations of soluble proteins, the crystallins. To correct for spherical aberration, it is necessary that the crystallin concentration varies from shell-to-shell, such that cellular protein content is greatest in the center of the lens. The radial variation in protein content underlies the critical gradient index (GRIN) structure of the lens. Only the outermost shells of lens fibers contain the cellular machinery necessary for protein synthesis. It is likely, therefore, that the GRIN (which spans the synthetically inactive, organelle-free zone of the lens) does not result from increased levels of protein synthesis in the core of the lens but is instead generated through loss of volume by inner fiber cells. Because volume is lost primarily in the form of cell water, the residual proteins in the central lens fibers can be concentrated to levels of >500 mg/ml. In this short review, we describe the process of fiber cell compaction, its relationship to lens growth and GRIN formation, and offer some thoughts on the likely nature of the underlying mechanism.

The Claim of Anti-Cataract Potential of Heliotropium indicum: A Myth or Reality?

Introduction

Heliotropium indicum has several uses in traditional medicine attributable to its numerous bioactive compounds. It is used as a traditional remedy for cataracts in Ghana without any scientific verification. This study aimed at verifying the anti-cataract properties of an aqueous whole plant extract of H. indicum.

Methods

The effect (cataract score) of 30, 100, and 300 mg kg⁻¹ extract (bid for 21 days, per os) on the development of 30 µmol kg⁻¹ sodium selenite-induced cataract in 10-day-old rat pups was investigated. Soluble lens proteins alpha A and alpha B crystallins, total lens protein, total lens glutathione, and aquaporin 0 in enucleated lens homogenates were determined spectrophotometrically using commercially available kits. Histopathological studies on the lenses were also performed. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging effect and linoleic acid autoxidation (antioxidant properties) of the extract (0.1–3.0 mg ml⁻¹), compared to n-propyl gallate, were ascertained using standard procedures.

Results

Cataract scores showed that the extract, at all dose levels, significantly alleviated selenite-induced cataracts (P ≤ 0.001). Markers of lens transparency (aquaporin 0, alpha A and B crystallins), as well as total lens proteins and lens glutathione levels, were significantly preserved (P ≤ 0.01–0.001). The extract exhibited activity relevant for scavenging free radicals and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Epithelial and lens fiber integrity in the histopathological assessment were maintained with HIE treatment.

Conclusion

The aqueous whole plant extract of H. indicum significantly inhibited the development of cataracts in rats via multiple mechanisms.

Topical Use of NaCl Solution with Different Concentration Affects Lens Transparency in Anesthetized Mice

PURPOSE

To study the influence of NaCl solution with different concentration on lens transparency in anesthetized mice.

METHODS

Four kinds of NaCl solution with different concentration were prepared as eye drops to imply graded osmolarity (100, 300, 500 and 1000 mOsmol/kg). Five groups of anesthetized mice were set-up to induce lens opacity, in which four groups were treated with NaCl solution and another group naturally exposed to air. The lens opacity was graded as no opacity, mild, medium and severe opacity at 0, 10, 20, 30, 45 and 60 min after the start of the experiment. A numerical value from 0 to 3 was assigned to each grade for the cataract index (CI) calculation and data analysis. The same procedure was repeated in all groups 48 h later. The reversion process of lens opacity was explored using a hypotonic NaCl solution (100 mOsmol/kg) in another pair of groups, a 500 mOsmol/kg NaCl solution group and natural exposure group. The gross appearance and time course of development and reversion of lens opacity were assessed.

RESULTS

Lens opacity primarily developed in a hypertonic NaCl solution-treated and naturally exposed eyes, and the gross anatomical appearance were similar. The speed of lens opacity development and CI changes were osmolarity-dependent, and the higher NaCl concentration solution used, the faster and more severe the formation of opacification. Both hypertonic NaCl-solution-induced lens opacity and natural exposure induced lens opacity could be resolved by hypotonic NaCl solution prior to anesthesia recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates a crucial effect of NaCl concentration on the development and reversion of lens opacity in the anesthetized mice, and support the osmolarity theory in the reversible lens opacification phenomenon. It is also of practical significance to mouse eye studies that require lens transparency.

Damage to lens fiber cells causes TRPV4-dependent Src family kinase activation in the epithelium

The bulk of the lens consists of tightly packed fiber cells. Because mature lens fibers lack mitochondria and other organelles, lens homeostasis relies on a monolayer of epithelial cells at the anterior surface. The detection of various signaling pathways in lens epithelial cells suggests they respond to stimuli that influence lens function. Focusing on Src Family Kinases (SFKs) and Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), we tested whether the epithelium can sense and respond to an event that occurs in fiber mass. The pig lens was subjected to localized freeze-thaw (FT) damage to fibers at posterior pole then the lens was incubated for 1-10 min in Krebs solution at 37 °C. Transient SFK activation in the epithelium was detectable at 1 min. Using a western blot approach, the ion channel TRPV4 was detected in the epithelium but was sparse or absent in fiber cells. Even though TRPV4 expression appears low at the actual site of FT damage to the fibers, SFK activation in the epithelium was suppressed in lenses subjected to FT damage then incubated with the TRPV4 antagonist HC067047 (10 μM). Na,K-ATPase activity was examined because previous studies report changes of Na,K-ATPase activity associated with SFK activation. Na,K-ATPase activity doubled in the epithelium removed from FT-damaged lenses and the response was prevented by HC067047 or the SFK inhibitor PP2 (10 μM). Similar changes were observed in response to fiber damage caused by injection of 5 μl hyperosmotic NaCl or mannitol solution beneath the surface of the posterior pole. The findings point to a TRPV4-dependent mechanism that enables the epithelial cells to detect remote damage in the fiber mass and respond within minutes by activating SFK and increasing Na,K-ATPase activity. Because TRPV4 channels are mechanosensitive, we speculate they may be stimulated by swelling of the lens structure caused by damage to the fibers. Increased Na,K-ATPase activity gives the lens greater capacity to control ion concentrations in the fiber mass and the Na,K-ATPase response may reflect the critical contribution of the epithelium to lens ion homeostasis.

Lens Biology and Biochemistry

The primary function of the lens resides in its transparency and ability to focus light on the retina. These require both that the lens cells contain high concentrations of densely packed lens crystallins to maintain a refractive index constant over distances approximating the wavelength of the light to be transmitted, and a specific arrangement of anterior epithelial cells and arcuate fiber cells lacking organelles in the nucleus to avoid blocking transmission of light. Because cells in the lens nucleus have shed their organelles, lens crystallins have to last for the lifetime of the organism, and are specifically adapted to this function. The lens crystallins comprise two major families: the βγ-crystallins are among the most stable proteins known and the α-crystallins, which have a chaperone-like function. Other proteins and metabolic activities of the lens are primarily organized to protect the crystallins from damage over time and to maintain homeostasis of the lens cells. Membrane protein channels maintain osmotic and ionic balance across the lens, while the lens cytoskeleton provides for the specific shape of the lens cells, especially the fiber cells of the nucleus. Perhaps most importantly, a large part of the metabolic activity in the lens is directed toward maintaining a reduced state, which shelters the lens crystallins and other cellular components from damage from UV light and oxidative stress. Finally, the energy requirements of the lens are met largely by glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway, perhaps in response to the avascular nature of the lens. Together, all these systems cooperate to maintain lens transparency over time.

A novel nonsense mutation in the MIP gene linked to congenital posterior polar cataracts in a Chinese family

Purpose

To detect the causative mutation for congenital posterior polar cataracts in a five-generation Chinese family and further explore the potential pathogenesis of this disease.

Methods

Coding exons, with flanking sequences of five candidate genes, were screened using direct DNA sequencing. The identified mutations were confirmed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. A full-length wild-type or an Y219* mutant aquaporin0 (AQP0) fused with an N-terminal FLAG tag, was transfected into HEK293T cells. For co-localization studies, FLAG-WT-AQP0 and Myc-Y219*-AQP0 constructs were co-transfected. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence studies were performed to determine protein expression levels and sub-cellular localization, respectively.

Results

We identified a novel nonsense mutation in MIP (c.657 C>G; p.Y219*) (major intrinsic protein gene) that segregates with congenital posterior polar cataract in a Chinese family. This mutation altered a highly conserved tyrosine to a stop codon (Y219*) within AQP0.When FLAG-WT-AQP0 and FLAG-Y219*-AQP0 expression constructs were singly transfected into HEK 293T cells, mRNA expression showed no significant difference between the wild-type and the mutant, while Y219*-AQP0 protein expression was significantly lower than that of wild-type AQP0. Wild-type AQP0 predominantly localized to the plasma membrane, while the mutated protein was abundant within the cytoplasm of HEK293T cells. However, when FLAG-WT-AQP0 andMyc-MU-AQP0were co-expressed, both proteins showed high fluorescence in the cytoplasm.

Conclusions

The novel nonsense mutation in the MIP gene (c.657 C>G) identified in a Chinese family may cause posterior polar cataracts. The dominant negative effect of the mutated protein on the wild-type protein interfered with the trafficking of wild-type protein to the cell membrane and both the mutant and wild-type protein were trapped in the cytoplasm. Consequently, both wild-type and mutant protein lost their function as a water channel on the cell membrane, and may result in a cataract phenotype. Our data also expands the spectrum of known MIP mutations.

The pH sensitivity of Aqp0 channels in tetraploid and diploid teleosts

Water homeostasis and the structural integrity of the vertebrate lens is partially mediated by AQP0 channels. Emerging evidence indicates that external pH may be involved in channel gating. Here we show that a tetraploid teleost, the Atlantic salmon, retains 4 aqp0 genes (aqp0a1, -0a2, -0b1, and -0b2), which are highly, but not exclusively, expressed in the lens. Functional characterization reveals that, although each paralog permeates water efficiently, the permeability is respectively shifted to the neutral, alkaline, or acidic pH in Aqp0a1, -0a2, and -0b1, whereas that of Aqp0b2 is not regulated by external pH. Mutagenesis studies demonstrate that Ser(38), His(39), and His(40) residues in the extracellular transmembrane domain of α-helix 2 facing the water pore are critical for the pH modulation of water transport. To validate these findings, we show that both zebrafish Aqp0a and -0b are functional water channels with respective pH sensitivities toward alkaline or acid pH ranges and that an N-terminal allelic variant (Ser(19)) of Aqp0b exists that abolishes water transport in Xenopus laevis oocytes. The data suggest that the alkaline pH sensitivity is a conserved trait in teleost Aqp0 a-type channels, whereas mammalian AQP0 and some teleost Aqp0 b-type channels display an acidic pH permeation preference.

Spatial distributions of AQP5 and AQP0 in embryonic and postnatal mouse lens development

The expression of the water channel protein aquaporin (AQP)-5 in adult rodent and human lenses was recently reported using immunohistochemistry, molecular biology, and mass spectrometry techniques, confirming a second transmembrane water channel that is present in lens fibre cells in addition to the abundant AQP0 protein. Interestingly, the sub-cellular distribution and level of post-translational modification of both proteins changes with fibre cell differentiation and location in the adult rodent lens. This study compares the sub-cellular distribution of AQP0 and AQP5 during embryonic and postnatal fibre cell development in the mouse lens to understand how the immunolabelling patterns for both AQPs observed in adult lens are first established. Immunohistochemistry was used to map the cellular and sub-cellular distribution of AQP5 and AQP0 throughout the lens in cryosections from adult (6 weeks-8 months) and postnatal (0-2 weeks) mouse lenses and in sections from paraffin embedded mouse embryos (E10-E19). All sections were imaged by fluorescence confocal microscopy. Using antibodies directed against the C-terminus of each AQP, AQP5 was abundantly expressed early in development, being found in the cytoplasm of cells of the lens vesicle and surrounding tissues (E10), while AQP0 was detected later (E11), and only in the membranes of elongating primary fibre cells. During the course of subsequent embryonic and postnatal development the pattern of cytoplasmic AQP5 and membranous AQP0 labelling was maintained until postnatal day 6 (P6). From P6 AQP5 labelling became progressively more membranous initially in the lens nucleus and then later in all regions of the lens, while AQP0 labelling was abruptly lost in the lens nucleus due to C-terminal truncation. Our results show that the spatial distribution patterns of AQP0 and AQP5 observed in the adult lens are established during a narrow window of postnatal development (P6-P15) that precedes eye opening and coincides with regression of the hyaloid vascular system. Our results support the hypothesis that, in the older fibre cells, insertion of AQP5 into the fibre cell membrane may compensate for any change in the functionality of AQP0 induced by truncation of its C-terminal tail.

Identification of the WNK-SPAK/OSR1 signaling pathway in rodent and human lenses

PURPOSE

To identify whether the kinases that regulate the activity of cation chloride cotransporters (CCC) in other tissues are also expressed in rat and human lenses.

METHODS

The expression of with-no-lysine kinase (WNK 1, 3, 4), oxidative stress response kinase 1 (OSR1), and Ste20-like proline alanine rich kinase (SPAK) were determined at either the transcript or protein levels in the rat and human lenses by reverse-transcriptase PCR and/or Western blotting, respectively. Selected kinases were regionally and subcellularly characterized in rat and human lenses. The transparency, wet weight, and tissue morphology of lenses extracted from SPAK knock-out animals was compared with wild-type lenses.

RESULTS

WNK 1, 3, 4, SPAK, and OSR1 were identified at the transcript level in rat lenses and WNK1, 4, SPAK, and OSR1 expression confirmed at the protein level in both rat and human lenses. SPAK and OSR1 were found to associate with membranes as peripheral proteins and exhibited distinct subcellular and region-specific expression profiles throughout the lens. No significant difference in the wet weight of SPAK knock-out lenses was detected relative to wild-type lenses. However, SPAK knock-out lenses showed an increased susceptibility to opacification.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that the WNK 1, 3, 4, OSR1, and SPAK signaling system known to play a role in regulating the phosphorylation status, and hence activity of the CCCs in other tissues, is also present in the rat and human lenses. The increased susceptibility of SPAK lenses to opacification suggests that disruption of this signaling pathway may compromise the ability of the lens to control its volume, and its ability to maintain its transparency.

Connexin 46 (cx46) gap junctions provide a pathway for the delivery of glutathione to the lens nucleus

Maintenance of adequate levels of glutathione (GSH) in the lens nucleus is critical for protection of lens proteins from the effects of oxidative stress and for lens transparency. How GSH is transported to the nucleus is unknown. We show that GSH diffuses to the nucleus from the outer cortex, where a high concentration of the anti-oxidant is established by synthesis or uptake, via the network of gap junctions. Using electrophysiological measurements, we found that channels formed by Cx46 and Cx50, the two connexin isoforms expressed in the lens, were moderately cation-selective (P(Na)/P(Cl) ∼5 for Cx46 and ∼3 for Cx50). Single channel permeation of the larger GSH anion was low but detectable (P(Na)/P(GSH) ∼12 for Cx46 and ∼8 for Cx50), whereas permeation of divalent anion glutathione disulfide (GSSG) was undetectable. Measurement of GSH levels in the lenses from connexin knock-out (KO) mice indicated Cx46, and not Cx50, is necessary for transport of GSH to the core. Levels of GSH in the nucleus were markedly reduced in Cx46 KO, whereas they were unaffected by Cx50 KO. We also show that GSH delivery to the nucleus is not dependent on the lens microcirculation, which is believed to be responsible for extracellular transport of other nutrients to membrane transporters in the core. These results indicate that glutathione diffuses from cortical fiber cells to the nucleus via gap junction channels formed by Cx46. We present a model of GSH diffusion from outer cells to inner fiber cells through gap junctions.

Purines in the eye: recent evidence for the physiological and pathological role of purines in the RPE, retinal neurons, astrocytes, Müller cells, lens, trabecular meshwork, cornea and lacrimal gland

This review highlights recent findings that describ how purines modulate the physiological and pathophysiological responses of ocular tissues. For example, in lacrimal glands the cross-talk between P2X7 receptors and both M3 muscarinic receptors and α1D-adrenergic receptors can influence tear secretion. In the cornea, purines lead to post-translational modification of EGFR and structural proteins that participate in wound repair in the epithelium and influence the expression of matrix proteins in the stroma. Purines act at receptors on both the trabecular meshwork and ciliary epithelium to modulate intraocular pressure (IOP); ATP-release pathways of inflow and outflow cells differ, possibly permitting differential modulation of adenosine delivery. Modulators of trabecular meshwork cell ATP release include cell volume, stretch, extracellular Ca(2+) concentration, oxidation state, actin remodeling and possibly endogenous cardiotonic steroids. In the lens, osmotic stress leads to ATP release following TRPV4 activation upstream of hemichannel opening. In the anterior eye, diadenosine polyphosphates such as Ap4A act at P2 receptors to modulate the rate and composition of tear secretion, impact corneal wound healing and lower IOP. The Gq11-coupled P2Y1-receptor contributes to volume control in Müller cells and thus the retina. P2X receptors are expressed in neurons in the inner and outer retina and contribute to visual processing as well as the demise of retinal ganglion cells. In RPE cells, the balance between extracellular ATP and adenosine may modulate lysosomal pH and the rate of lipofuscin formation. In optic nerve head astrocytes, mechanosensitive ATP release via pannexin hemichannels, coupled with stretch-dependent upregulation of pannexins, provides a mechanism for ATP signaling in chronic glaucoma. With so many receptors linked to divergent functions throughout the eye, ensuring the transmitters remain local and stimulation is restricted to the intended target may be a key issue in understanding how physiological signaling becomes pathological in ocular disease.

Local cAMP signaling in disease at a glance

The second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP) operates in discrete subcellular regions within which proteins that synthesize, break down or respond to the second messenger are precisely organized. A burgeoning knowledge of compartmentalized cAMP signaling is revealing how the local control of signaling enzyme activity impacts upon disease. The aim of this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster is to highlight how misregulation of local cyclic AMP signaling can have pathophysiological consequences. We first introduce the core molecular machinery for cAMP signaling, which includes the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), and then consider the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) in coordinating different cAMP-responsive proteins. The latter sections illustrate the emerging role of local cAMP signaling in four disease areas: cataracts, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Metabolomics of the rat lens: a combined LC-MS and NMR study

This work is the first comprehensive report on the quantitative metabolomic composition of the rat lens. Quantitative metabolomic profiles of lenses were acquired with the combined use of high-frequency nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-performance liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass-spectrometric detection (LC-MS) methods. More than forty low molecular weight compounds found in the lens have been reliably identified and quantified. The most abundant metabolites in the 3-month-old Wistar rat lens are taurine, hypotaurine, lactate, phosphocholine and reduced glutathione. The analysis of age-related changes in the lens metabolomic composition shows a gradual decrease of the content of most metabolites. This decrease is the most pronounced between 1 and 3 months, which probably corresponds to the completion of the lens maturation in one-month-old rats and to the high rate of the young lens growth. The enhanced levels of tryptophan, tyrosine, carnitine, glycerophosphate, GSH and GSSG were found in lenses of senescence-accelerated OXYS rats; for some metabolites, this effect may probably be attributed to the compensatory response to oxidative stress.

Beta-1 integrin is important for the structural maintenance and homeostasis of differentiating fiber cells

β1-Integrin is a heterodimeric transmembrane protein that has roles in both cell-extra-cellular matrix and cell-cell interactions. Conditional deletion of β1-integrin from all lens cells during embryonic development results in profound lens defects, however, it is less clear whether this reflects functions in the lens epithelium alone or whether this protein plays a role in lens fibers. Thus, a conditional approach was used to delete β1-integrin solely from the lens fiber cells. This deletion resulted in two distinct phenotypes with some lenses exhibiting cataracts while others were clear, albeit with refractive defects. Analysis of "clear" conditional knockout lenses revealed that they had profound defects in fiber cell morphology associated with the loss of the F-actin network. Physiological measurements found that the lens fiber cells had a twofold increase in gap junctional coupling, perhaps due to differential localization of connexins 46 and 50, as well as increased water permeability. This would presumably facilitate transport of ions and nutrients through the lens, and may partially explain how lenses with profound structural abnormalities can maintain transparency. In summary, β1-integrin plays a role in maintaining the cellular morphology and homeostasis of the lens fiber cells.

Cx46 hemichannels contribute to the sodium leak conductance in lens fiber cells

The lens is proposed to have an internal microcirculation system consisting of continuously circulating ionic fluxes that play an essential role in maintaining lens transparency. One of the key components of this system is the sodium leak conductance. Here we investigate the contribution of Cx46 hemichannels to the basal membrane permeability of peripheral fiber cells isolated from transgenic mouse lenses lacking Cx50 or both Cx50 and Cx46 (dKO) using the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Our results show that Cx46 hemichannels were largely closed at a resting voltage of -60 mV in the presence of millimolar divalent cation concentrations. However, even though the vast majority of these channels were closed at -60 mV, a small, persistent, inward current could still be detected. This current could be mostly blocked by exposure to 1 mM La(3+) and was not observed in fiber cells isolated from dKO mouse lenses suggesting that it was due to Cx46 hemichannels. In addition, Cx50(-/-) fiber cells showed increased open channel noise and a depolarized resting potential compared with dKO fiber cells. Exposure of Cx50(-/-) fiber cells to La(3+) hyperpolarized the resting potential to -58 mV, which is similar to the value of resting potential measured in dKO fiber and significantly reduced the open channel noise. In conclusion, these results suggest that Cx46 hemichannels may contribute to the sodium leak conductance in lens fiber cells.

Connexin hemichannels in the lens

The normal function and survival of cells in the avascular lens is facilitated by intercellular communication through an extensive network of gap junctions formed predominantly by three connexins (Cx43, Cx46, and Cx50). In expression systems, these connexins can all induce hemichannel currents, but other lens proteins (e.g., pannexin1) can also induce similar currents. Hemichannel currents have been detected in isolated lens fiber cells. These hemichannels may make significant contributions to normal lens physiology and pathophysiology. Studies of some connexin mutants linked to congenital cataracts have implicated hemichannels with aberrant voltage-dependent gating or modulation by divalent cations in disease pathogenesis. Hemichannels may also contribute to age- and disease-related cataracts.

The Electrical Response to Injury: Molecular Mechanisms and Wound Healing

Significance: Natural, endogenous electric fields (EFs) and currents arise spontaneously after wounding of many tissues, especially epithelia, and are necessary for normal healing. This wound electrical activity is a long-lasting and regulated response. Enhancing or inhibiting this electrical activity increases or decreases wound healing, respectively. Cells that are responsible for wound closure such as corneal epithelial cells or skin keratinocytes migrate directionally in EFs of physiological magnitude. However, the mechanisms of how the wound electrical response is initiated and regulated remain unclear. Recent Advances: Wound EFs and currents appear to arise by ion channel up-regulation and redistribution, which are perhaps triggered by an intracellular calcium wave or cell depolarization. We discuss the possibility of stimulation of wound healing via pharmacological enhancement of the wound electric signal by stimulation of ion pumping. Critical Issues: Chronic wounds are a major problem in the elderly and diabetic patient. Any strategy to stimulate wound healing in these patients is desirable. Applying electrical stimulation directly is problematic, but pharmacological enhancement of the wound signal may be a promising strategy. Future Directions: Understanding the molecular regulation of wound electric signals may reveal some fundamental mechanisms in wound healing. Manipulating fluxes of ions and electric currents at wounds might offer new approaches to achieve better wound healing and to heal chronic wounds.

Gap junctions

Gap junctions are essential to the function of multicellular animals, which require a high degree of coordination between cells. In vertebrates, gap junctions comprise connexins and currently 21 connexins are known in humans. The functions of gap junctions are highly diverse and include exchange of metabolites and electrical signals between cells, as well as functions, which are apparently unrelated to intercellular communication. Given the diversity of gap junction physiology, regulation of gap junction activity is complex. The structure of the various connexins is known to some extent; and structural rearrangements and intramolecular interactions are important for regulation of channel function. Intercellular coupling is further regulated by the number and activity of channels present in gap junctional plaques. The number of connexins in cell-cell channels is regulated by controlling transcription, translation, trafficking, and degradation; and all of these processes are under strict control. Once in the membrane, channel activity is determined by the conductive properties of the connexin involved, which can be regulated by voltage and chemical gating, as well as a large number of posttranslational modifications. The aim of the present article is to review our current knowledge on the structure, regulation, function, and pharmacology of gap junctions. This will be supported by examples of how different connexins and their regulation act in concert to achieve appropriate physiological control, and how disturbances of connexin function can lead to disease.

Regulation of AQP0 water permeability is enhanced by cooperativity

Aquaporin 0 (AQP0), essential for lens clarity, is a tetrameric protein composed of four identical monomers, each of which has its own water pore. The water permeability of AQP0 expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes can be approximately doubled by changes in calcium concentration or pH. Although each monomer pore functions as a water channel, under certain conditions the pores act cooperatively. In other words, the tetramer is the functional unit. In this paper, we show that changes in external pH and calcium can induce an increase in water permeability that exhibits either a positive cooperativity switch-like increase in water permeability or an increase in water permeability in which each monomer acts independently and additively. Because the concentrations of calcium and hydrogen ions increase toward the center of the lens, a concentration signal could trigger a regulatory change in AQP0 water permeability. It thus seems plausible that the cooperative modes of water permeability regulation by AQP0 tetramers mediated by decreased pH and elevated calcium are the physiologically important ones in the living lens.

The effects of age on lens transport

PURPOSE

Age-related nuclear cataracts involve denaturation and aggregation of intracellular proteins. We have documented age-dependent changes in membrane transport in the mouse lens to see what might initiate changes in the intracellular milieu.

METHODS

Microelectrode-based intracellular impedance studies of intact lenses were used to determine gap junction coupling conductance, fiber and surface cell membrane conductances, effective extracellular resistivity, and intracellular voltage. Fiber cell connexin expression was detected by Western blotting. Intracellular hydrostatic pressure was measured with a microelectrode/manometer system. Concentrations of intracellular sodium and calcium were measured by intracellular injection of sodium-binding benzofuran isophthalate and Fura2, respectively.

RESULTS

In adult lenses, as age increased: fiber cell gap junction coupling conductance declined significantly, correlating with decreases in Cx46 and Cx50 labeling in Western blots; fiber and surface cell membrane conductances did not change systematically; effective extracellular resistivity increased monotonically; center to surface gradients for intracellular pressure, sodium, calcium, and voltage all increased, but in an interdependent manner that moderated changes. In newborn pup lenses, there were changes that did not simply fit with the above paradigm.

CONCLUSIONS

In newborn pup lenses, the observed changes may relate to growth factors that are not related to age-dependent changes seen in adult lenses. The major change in adult lenses was an age-dependent decrease in gap junction coupling, probably due to oxidative damage leading to degradation of connexin proteins. These changes clearly lead to compromise of intracellular homeostasis and may be a causal factor in age-related nuclear cataracts.

Functional effects of Cx50 mutations associated with congenital cataracts

Mutations in connexin50 (Cx50) cause dominant cataracts in both humans and mice. The exact mechanisms by which mutations cause these variable phenotypes are poorly understood. We have examined the functional properties of gap junctions made by three Cx50 mutations, V44E, D47N, and V79L, expressed in mammalian cell lines. V44E trafficked to the plasma membrane properly and formed gap junctional plaques. However, the mutant did not form functional gap junctions when expressed alone, or with wild-type (WT) Cx46 and Cx50, indicating that V44E is a dominant negative inhibitor of WT connexin function. In contrast, D47N subunits did not localize to junctional plaques or form functional homotypic gap junctions; however, mixed expression of D47N and WT subunits of either Cx50 or Cx46 resulted in functional intercellular channels, with high levels of coupling. Single-channel studies indicated that D47N formed heteromeric channels with WT Cx46 with unique properties. Unlike either V44E or D47N, V79L formed functional homotypic intercellular channels. However, the mutation caused an alteration in voltage gating and a dramatic reduction in the single-channel open probability, resulting in much lower levels of conductance in cells expressing V79L alone, or together with WT connexin subunits. Thus, each mutation produced distinct changes in the properties of junctional coupling. V44E failed to form intercellular channels in any configuration, D47N formed only heteromeric channels with WT connexins, and V79L formed homotypic and heteromeric channels with altered properties. These results suggest that unique interactions between mutant and wild-type lens connexins might underlie the development of various cataract phenotypes in humans.

Cataract-causing mutation of human connexin 46 impairs gap junction, but increases hemichannel function and cell death

Connexin channels play a critical role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and transparency of the lens. Mutations in connexin genes are linked to congenital cataracts in humans. The G143R missense mutation on connexin (Cx) 46 was recently reported to be associated with congenital Coppock cataracts. Here, we showed that the G143R mutation decreased Cx46 gap junctional coupling in a dominant negative manner; however, it significantly increased gap junctional plaques. The G143R mutant also increased hemichannel activity, inversely correlated with the level of Cx46 protein on the cell surface. The interaction between cytoplasmic loop domain and C-terminus has been shown to be involved in gating of connexin channels. Interestingly, the G143R mutation enhanced the interaction between intracellular loop and Cx46. Furthermore, this mutation decreased cell viability and the resistance of the cells to oxidative stress, primarily due to the increased hemichannel function. Together, these results suggest that mutation of this highly conserved residue on the cytoplasmic loop domain of Cx46 enhances its interaction with the C-terminus, resulting in a reduction of gap junction channel function, but increased hemichannel function. This combination leads to the development of human congenital cataracts.

A computer model of lens structure and function predicts experimental changes to steady state properties and circulating currents

BACKGROUND

In a previous study (Vaghefi et al. 2012) we described a 3D computer model that used finite element modeling to capture the structure and function of the ocular lens. This model accurately predicted the steady state properties of the lens including the circulating ionic and fluid fluxes that are believed to underpin the lens internal microcirculation system. In the absence of a blood supply, this system brings nutrients to the core of the lens and removes waste products faster than would be achieved by passive diffusion alone. Here we test the predictive properties of our model by investigating whether it can accurately mimic the experimentally measured changes to lens steady-state properties induced by either depolarising the lens potential or reducing Na+ pump rate.

METHODS

To mimic experimental manipulations reported in the literature, the boundary conditions of the model were progressively altered and the model resolved for each new set of conditions. Depolarisation of lens potential was implemented by increasing the extracellular [K+], while inhibition of the Na+ pump was stimulated by utilising the inherent temperature sensitivity of the pump and changing the temperature at which the model was solved.

RESULTS

Our model correctly predicted that increasing extracellular [K+] depolarizes the lens potential, reducing and then reversing the magnitude of net current densities around the lens. While lowering the temperature reduced Na+ pump activity and caused a reduction in circulating current, it had a minimal effect on the lens potential, a result consistent with published experimental data.

CONCLUSION

We have shown that our model is capable of accurately simulating the effects of two known experimental manipulations on lens steady-state properties. Our results suggest that the model will be a valuable predictive tool to support ongoing studies of lens structure and function.

In vivo analysis of aquaporin 0 function in zebrafish: permeability regulation is required for lens transparency

PURPOSE

The zebrafish lens is well suited for studies of physiology and development due to its rapid formation in the embryo and genetic accessibility. Aquaporin 0 (AQP0), a lens-specific membrane protein, is required for lens clarity. Zebrafish have two copies of AQP0 (Aqp0a and b), whereas mammals have a single, multifunctional protein. Here we demonstrate a reliable knockdown/rescue system in zebrafish and use it to provide evidence for subfunctionalization of Aqp0a and b, as well as to show that calcium-mediated regulation of Aqp0a in zebrafish lenses is necessary for transparency.

METHODS

Coinjection of antisense oligonucleotides and DNA rescue constructs into zebrafish embryos, followed by evaluation of the developing fish for cataracts, was used to analyze the functions of Aqp0a and b. The water permeability and regulation characteristics of each rescue protein were tested in a Xenopus oocyte swelling assay.

RESULTS

Both copies of AQP0 are necessary for lens clarity in the zebrafish, and neither is sufficient. Water permeability is necessary but also insufficient. Phosphorylation and regulation of Aqp0a are required for its function.

CONCLUSIONS

In the zebrafish lens, the two closely related AQP0s have acquired distinct functions that are both necessary for lens development and clarity. Regulation of AQP0 water permeability, a well-studied phenomenon in vitro, may be physiologically relevant in the living lens.

L-type calcium channels play a critical role in maintaining lens transparency by regulating phosphorylation of aquaporin-0 and myosin light chain and expression of connexins

Homeostasis of intracellular calcium is crucial for lens cytoarchitecture and transparency, however, the identity of specific channel proteins regulating calcium influx within the lens is not completely understood. Here we examined the expression and distribution profiles of L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) and explored their role in morphological integrity and transparency of the mouse lens, using cDNA microarray, RT-PCR, immunoblot, pharmacological inhibitors and immunofluorescence analyses. The results revealed that Ca (V) 1.2 and 1.3 channels are expressed and distributed in both the epithelium and cortical fiber cells in mouse lens. Inhibition of LTCCs with felodipine or nifedipine induces progressive cortical cataract formation with time, in association with decreased lens weight in ex-vivo mouse lenses. Histological analyses of felodipine treated lenses revealed extensive disorganization and swelling of cortical fiber cells resembling the phenotype reported for altered aquaporin-0 activity without detectable cytotoxic effects. Analysis of both soluble and membrane rich fractions from felodipine treated lenses by SDS-PAGE in conjunction with mass spectrometry and immunoblot analyses revealed decreases in β-B1-crystallin, Hsp-90, spectrin and filensin. Significantly, loss of transparency in the felodipine treated lenses was preceded by an increase in aquaporin-0 serine-235 phosphorylation and levels of connexin-50, together with decreases in myosin light chain phosphorylation and the levels of 14-3-3ε, a phosphoprotein-binding regulatory protein. Felodipine treatment led to a significant increase in gene expression of connexin-50 and 46 in the mouse lens. Additionally, felodipine inhibition of LTCCs in primary cultures of mouse lens epithelial cells resulted in decreased intracellular calcium, and decreased actin stress fibers and myosin light chain phosphorylation, without detectable cytotoxic response. Taken together, these observations reveal a crucial role for LTCCs in regulation of expression, activity and stability of aquaporin-0, connexins, cytoskeletal proteins, and the mechanical properties of lens, all of which have a vital role in maintaining lens function and cytoarchitecture.

The water permeability of lens aquaporin-0 depends on its lipid bilayer environment

Aquaporin-0 (AQP0), the primary water channel in lens fiber cells, is critical to lens development, organization, and function. In the avascular lens there is thought to be an internal microcirculation associated with fluid movement. Although AQP0 is known to be important in fluid fluxes across membranes, the water permeability of this channel has only been measured in Xenopus oocytes and in outer lens cortical membranes, but not in inner nuclear membranes, which have an increased cholesterol/phospholipid ratio. Here we measure the unit water permeability of AQP0 in different proteoliposomes with cholesterol/phospholipid ratios and external pHs similar to those found in the cortex and nucleus of the lens. Osmotic stress measurements were performed with proteoliposomes containing AQP0 and three different lipids mixtures: (1) phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG), (2) PC, PG, with 40 mol% cholesterol, and (3) sphingomyelin (SM), PG, with 40 mol% cholesterol. At pH 7.5 the unit permeabilities of AQP0 were 3.5 ± 0.5 × 10(-14) cm(3)/s (mean ± SEM), 1.1 ± 0.1 × 10(-14) cm(3)/s, and 0.50 ± 0.04 × 10(-14) cm(3)/s in PC:PG, PC:PG:cholesterol, and SM:PG:cholesterol, respectively. For lipid mixtures at pH 6.5, corresponding to conditions found in the lens nucleus, the AQP0 permeabilities were 1.5 ± 0.4 × 10(-14) cm(3)/s and 0.76 ± 0.03 × 10(-14) cm(3)/s in PC:PG:cholesterol and SM:PG:cholesterol, respectively. Thus, although AQP0 unit permeability can be modified by changes in pH, it is also sensitive to changes in bilayer lipid composition, and decreases with increasing cholesterol and SM content. These data imply that AQP0 water permeability is regulated by bilayer lipid composition, so that AQP0 permeability would be significantly less in the lens nucleus than in the lens cortex.

Properties of two cataract-associated mutations located in the NH2 terminus of connexin 46

Mutations in connexin 46 are associated with congenital cataracts. The purpose of this project was to characterize cellular and functional properties of two congenital cataract-associated mutations located in the NH2 terminus of connexin 46: Cx46D3Y and Cx46L11S, which we found localized to gap junctional plaques like wild-type Cx46 in transfected HeLa cells. Dual two-microelectrode-voltage-clamp studies of Xenopus oocyte pairs injected with wild-type or mutant rat Cx46 showed that oocyte pairs injected with D3Y or L11S cRNA failed to induce gap junctional coupling, whereas oocyte pairs injected with Cx46 showed high levels of coupling. D3Y, but not L11S, functionally paired with wild-type Cx46. To determine whether coexpression of D3Y or L11S affected the junctional conductance produced by wild-type lens connexins, we studied pairs of oocytes coinjected with equal amounts of mutant and wild-type connexin cRNA. Expression of D3Y or L11S almost completely abolished gap junctional coupling induced by Cx46. In contrast, expression of D3Y or L11S failed to inhibit junctional conductance induced by Cx50. To examine effects of the D3Y and L11S mutations on hemichannel activity, hemichannel currents were measured in connexin cRNA-injected oocytes. Oocytes expressing D3Y exhibited reduced hemichannel activity as well as alterations in voltage gating and charge selectivity while oocytes expressing L11S showed no hemichannel activity. Moreover, coexpression of mutant with wild-type Cx50 or Cx46 gave rise to hemichannels with distinct electrophysiological properties, suggesting that the mutant connexins were forming heteromeric channels with wild-type connexins. These data suggest D3Y and L11S cause cataracts by similar but not identical mechanisms.

Connexin mutants and cataracts

The lens is a multicellular, but avascular tissue that must stay transparent to allow normal transmission of light and focusing of it on the retina. Damage to lens cells and/or proteins can cause cataracts, opacities that disrupt these processes. The normal survival of the lens is facilitated by an extensive network of gap junctions formed predominantly of connexin46 and connexin50. Mutations of the genes that encode these connexins (GJA3 and GJA8) have been identified and linked to inheritance of cataracts in human families and mouse lines. In vitro expression studies of several of these mutants have shown that they exhibit abnormalities that may lead to disease. Many of the mutants reduce or modify intercellular communication due to channel alterations (including loss of function or altered gating) or due to impaired cellular trafficking which reduces the number of gap junction channels within the plasma membrane. However, the abnormalities detected in studies of other mutants suggest that they cause cataracts through other mechanisms including gain of hemichannel function (leading to cell injury and death) and formation of cytoplasmic accumulations (that may act as light scattering particles). These observations and the anticipated results of ongoing studies should elucidate the mechanisms of cataract development due to mutations of lens connexins and abnormalities of other lens proteins. They may also contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms of disease due to connexin mutations in other tissues.