Chemical gating of gap junction channels; roles of calcium, pH and calmodulin

Gap junctional regulation of pressure, fluid force, and electrical fields in the epigenetics of cardiac morphogenesis and remodeling

Epigenetic factors of pressure load, fluid force, and electrical fields that occur during cardiac contraction affect cardiac development, morphology, function, and pathogenesis. These factors are orchestrated by intercellular communication mediated by gap junctions, which synchronize action potentials and second messengers. Misregulation of the gap junction protein connexin (Cx) alters cardiogenesis, and can be a pathogenic factor causing cardiac conduction disturbance, fatal arrhythmia, and cardiac remodeling in disease states such as hypertension and ischemia. Changes in Cx expression can occur even when the DNA sequence of the Cx gene itself is unaltered. Posttranslational modifications might reduce arrhythmogenic substrates, improve cardiac function, and promote remodeling in a diseased heart. In this review, we discuss the epigenetic features of gap junctions that regulate cardiac morphology and remodeling. We further discuss potential clinical applications of current knowledge of the structure and function of gap junctions.

Low pH enhances connexin32 degradation in the pancreatic acinar cell

Decreased extracellular pH is observed in a number of clinical conditions and can sensitize to the development and worsen the severity of acute pancreatitis. Because intercellular communication through gap junctions is pH-sensitive and modulates pancreatitis responses, we evaluated the effects of low pH on gap junctions in the rat pancreatic acinar cell. Decreasing extracellular pH from 7.4 to 7.0 significantly inhibited gap junctional intracellular communication. Acidic pH also significantly reduced levels of connexin32, the predominant gap junction protein in acinar cells, and altered its localization. Increased degradation through the proteasomal, lysosomal, and autophagic pathways mediated the decrease in connexin32 under low-pH conditions. These findings provide the first evidence that low extracellular pH can regulate gap junctional intercellular communication by enhancing connexin degradation.

Temperature-sensitive gating of hCx26: high-resolution Raman spectroscopy sheds light on conformational changes

The temperature-sensitive gating of human Connexin 26 (hCx26) was analyzed with confocal Raman microscopy. High-resolution Raman spectra covering the spectral range between 400 and 1500 rel. cm(-1) with a spectral resolution of 1 cm(-1) were fully annotated, revealing notable differences between the spectrum recorded from solubilized hCx26 in Ca(2+)-buffered POPC at 10°C and any other set of protein conditions (temperature, Ca(2+) presence, POPC presence). Spectral components originating from specific amino acids show that the TM1/EL1 parahelix and probably the TM4 trans-membrane helix and the plug domain are involved in the gating process responsible for fully closing the hemichannel.

Cxs and Panx- hemichannels in peripheral and central chemosensing in mammals

Connexins (Cxs) and Pannexins (Panx) form hemichannels at the plasma membrane of animals. Despite their low open probability under physiological conditions, these hemichannels release signaling molecules (i.e., ATP, Glutamate, PGE₂) to the extracellular space, thus subserving several important physiological processes. Oxygen and CO₂ sensing are fundamental to the normal functioning of vertebrate organisms. Fluctuations in blood PO₂, PCO₂ and pH are sensed at the carotid bifurcations of adult mammals by glomus cells of the carotid bodies. Likewise, changes in pH and/or PCO₂ of cerebrospinal fluid are sensed by central chemoreceptors, a group of specialized neurones distributed in the ventrolateral medulla (VLM), raphe nuclei, and some other brainstem areas. After many years of research, the molecular mechanisms involved in chemosensing process are not completely understood. This manuscript will review data regarding relationships between chemosensitive cells and the expression of channels formed by Cxs and Panx, with special emphasis on hemichannels.

Connexin and Pannexin hemichannels are regulated by redox potential

Connexins (Cxs) and Pannexins (Panxs) are two non-related protein families, having both the property to form hemichannels at the plasma membrane. There are 21 genes coding for different Cx based proteins and only 3 for Panx. Under physiological conditions, these hemichannels (Cxs and Panxs) present a low open probability, but when open, they allow the release of signaling molecules to the extracellular space. However, under pathological conditions, these hemichannels increase their open probability, inducing important lysis of metabolites, and ionic imbalance, which in turn induce the massive entry of Ca⁺² to the cell. Actually, it is well recognized that Cxs and Panxs based channels play an important role in several diseases and -in many cases- this is associated with an aberrant hemichannel opening. Hemichannel opening and closing are controlled by a plethora of signaling including changes of the voltage plasma membrane, protein-protein interactions, and several posttranslational modifications, including protein cleavage, phosphorylation, glycosylation, hydroxylation and S-nitrosylation, among others. In particular, it has been recently shown that the cellular redox status modulates the opening/closing and permeability of at least Cx43, Cx46, and Panx1 hemichannels. Thus, for example, the gaseous transmitter nitric oxide (NO) can induce the S-nitrosylation of these proteins modulating in turn several of their properties. The reason is that the redox status of a cell is fundamental to set their response to the environment and also plays an important role in several pathologies. In this review, I will discuss how NO and other molecules associated with redox signaling modulate Cxs and Panx hemichannels properties.

Gap junction regulation by calmodulin

Intracellular Ca(2+) activated calmodulin (CaM) inhibits gap junction channels in the low nanomolar to high micromolar range of [Ca(2+)]i. This regulation plays an essential role in numerous cellular processes that include hearing, lens transparency, and synchronized contractions of the heart. Previous studies have indicated that gap junction mediated cell-to-cell communication was inhibited by CaM antagonists. More recent evidence indicates a direct role of CaM in regulating several members of the connexin family. Since the intracellular loop and carboxyl termini of connexins are largely "invisible" in electron microscopy and X-ray crystallographic structures due to disorder in these domains, peptide models encompassing the putative CaM binding sites of several intracellular domains of connexins have been used to identify the Ca(2+)-dependent CaM binding sites of these proteins. This approach has been used to determine the CaM binding affinities of peptides derived from a number of different connexin-subfamilies.

The coupling features of electrical synapses modulate neuronal synchrony in hypothalamic superachiasmatic nucleus

Electrical synapses (gap junctions) exist in many types of neurons in the mammalian brain, especially during early development period; one of the most important roles of electrical synapses is to mediate the synchrony of the neuronal networks and to coordinate the neural circuits function precisely. Previous reports show that electrical coupling is involved in modulating synchronous activity among coupled neurons, but related dynamics and mechanisms are still poorly understood. Here, in order to investigate the correlation between gap junctions and synchrony we focus on the electrically coupled neurons in suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) by using calcium imaging with two-photon microscopy and electrophysiology. We observed that coupled neurons in SCN present a dynamic regulation on synchrony based on their coupling strengths and are modulated by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) - a neuropeptide whose receptors are expressed throughout the SCN. Modification of coupling efficiency of electrical synapses changes the synchrony level of the neuronal networks in the SCN. Our results provide new insights into the causal relationship between gap junctions and synchrony in the SCN. We further demonstrate the importance of VIP in coordinating the gap junctions-mediated signal transmission and implicate that a homeostasis environment is important for SCN to modulate the rhythmic circadian activities.

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.

The many faces of calmodulin in cell proliferation, programmed cell death, autophagy, and cancer

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous Ca(2+) receptor protein mediating a large number of signaling processes in all eukaryotic cells. CaM plays a central role in regulating a myriad of cellular functions via interaction with multiple target proteins. This review focuses on the action of CaM and CaM-dependent signaling systems in the control of vertebrate cell proliferation, programmed cell death and autophagy. The significance of CaM and interconnected CaM-regulated systems for the physiology of cancer cells including tumor stem cells, and processes required for tumor progression such as growth, tumor-associated angiogenesis and metastasis are highlighted. Furthermore, the potential targeting of CaM-dependent signaling processes for therapeutic use is discussed.

The anticancer effect of PQ1 in the MMTV-PyVT mouse model

Animal models are commonly used to analyze the mechanism of carcinogenesis as well as the development and screening of potent drugs. Here the transgenic strain FVB/N-Tg(MMTV-PyVT)634Mul/J (also known as PyVT) was used as a model system for measuring tumor burden, drug sensitivity, and metastasis of mammary carcinomas. Loss of gap junctional intercellular communication and the down regulation of connexin expression are characteristic of neoplastic cells. The substituted quinoline, 6-methoxy-8-[(3-aminopropyl)amino]-4-methyl-5-(3-trifluoromethyl-phenyloxy)quinolone (PQ1), has been shown to restore GJIC and increase connexin expression in breast cancer cell lines while not affecting normal mammary cells, suggesting that it may provide effective anticancer treatment with less detrimental effects. The PyVT spontaneous mammary tumor mouse model was used to determine the biological and histological effects of PQ1 on tumorigenesis and metastasis at three stages of development: Pretumor, early tumor and late tumor formation. Treatment with PQ1 at all three stages of development significantly reduced tumor growth. PQ1 treatment further increased Cx43 expression during pre- and early-tumor formation, while it prevented an increase in Cx46 expression during late stage tumor formation. This study shows that Cx43 expression and neoplastic cellular growth are inversely related, but that PQ1 can alter tumor growth through targeting gap junction proteins to prove clinical efficacy in the treatment of spontaneous mammary tumors.

Allosteric mechanism of water-channel gating by Ca2+-calmodulin

Calmodulin (CaM) is a universal regulatory protein that communicates the presence of calcium to its molecular targets and correspondingly modulates their function. This key signaling protein is important for controlling the activity of hundreds of membrane channels and transporters. However, our understanding of the structural mechanisms driving CaM regulation of full-length membrane proteins has remained elusive. In this study, we determined the pseudo-atomic structure of full-length mammalian aquaporin-0 (AQP0, Bos Taurus) in complex with CaM using electron microscopy to understand how this signaling protein modulates water channel function. Molecular dynamics and functional mutation studies reveal how CaM binding inhibits AQP0 water permeability by allosterically closing the cytoplasmic gate of AQP0. Our mechanistic model provides new insight, only possible in the context of the fully assembled channel, into how CaM regulates multimeric channels by facilitating cooperativity between adjacent subunits.

Regulation of connexin36 gap junction channels by n-alkanols and arachidonic acid

We examined junctional conductance (gj) and its dependence on transjunctional voltage in gap junction (GJ) channels formed of wild-type connexin36 (Cx36) or its fusion form with green fluorescent protein (Cx36-EGFP) transfected in HeLa cells or endogenously expressed in primary culture of pancreatic β-cells. Only a very small fraction (∼0.8%) of Cx36-EGFP channels assembled into junctional plaques of GJs were open under control conditions. We found that short carbon chain n-alkanols (SCCAs) increased gj, while long carbon chain n-alkanols resulted in full uncoupling; cutoff is between heptanol and octanol. The fraction of functional channels and gj increased several fold under an exposure to SCCAs, or during reduction of endogenous levels of arachidonic acid (AA) by exposure to fatty acid-free BSA or cytosolic phospholipase A2 inhibitors. Moreover, uncoupling caused by exogenously applied AA can be rescued by BSA, which binds AA and other polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), but not by BSA modified with 1,2-cyclohexanedione, which does not bind AA and other PUFAs. We propose that under control conditions, Cx36 GJ channels in HeLa transfectants and β-cells are inhibited by endogenous AA, which stabilizes a closed conformational state of the channel that leads to extremely low fraction of functional channels. In addition, SCCAs increase gj by interfering with endogenous AA-dependent inhibition, increasing open probability and the fraction of functional channels.

Contribution of intracellular calcium and pH in ischemic uncoupling of cardiac gap junction channels formed of connexins 43, 40, and 45: a critical function of C-terminal domain

Ischemia is known to inhibit gap junction (GJ) mediated intercellular communication. However the detail mechanisms of this inhibition are largely unknown. In the present study, we determined the vulnerability of different cardiac GJ channels formed of connexins (Cxs) 43, 40, and 45 to simulated ischemia, by creating oxygen glucose deprived (OGD) condition. 5 minutes of OGD decreased the junctional conductance (Gj) of Cx43, Cx40 and Cx45 by 53±3%, 64±1% and 85±2% respectively. Reduction of Gj was prevented completely by restricting the change of both intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) and pH (pHi) with potassium phosphate buffer. Clamping of either [Ca(2+)]i or pHi, through BAPTA (2 mM) or HEPES (80 mM) respectively, offered partial resistance to ischemic uncoupling. Anti-calmodulin antibody attenuated the uncoupling of Cx43 and Cx45 significantly but not of Cx40. Furthermore, OGD could reduce only 26±2% of Gj in C-terminus (CT) truncated Cx43 (Cx43-Δ257). Tethering CT of Cx43 to the CT-truncated Cx40 (Cx40-Δ249), and Cx45 (Cx45-Δ272) helped to resist OGD mediated uncoupling. Moreover, CT domain played a significant role in determining the junction current density and plaque diameter. Our results suggest; OGD mediated uncoupling of GJ channels is primarily due to elevated [Ca(2+)]i and acidic pHi, though the latter contributes more. Among Cx43, Cx40 and Cx45, Cx43 is the most resistant to OGD while Cx45 is the most sensitive one. CT of Cx43 has major necessary elements for OGD induced uncoupling and it can complement CT of Cx40 and Cx45.

Emergent complexity of the cytoskeleton: from single filaments to tissue

Despite their overwhelming complexity, living cells display a high degree of internal mechanical and functional organization which can largely be attributed to the intracellular biopolymer scaffold, the cytoskeleton. Being a very complex system far from thermodynamic equilibrium, the cytoskeleton's ability to organize is at the same time challenging and fascinating. The extensive amounts of frequently interacting cellular building blocks and their inherent multifunctionality permits highly adaptive behavior and obstructs a purely reductionist approach. Nevertheless (and despite the field's relative novelty), the physics approach has already proved to be extremely successful in revealing very fundamental concepts of cytoskeleton organization and behavior. This review aims at introducing the physics of the cytoskeleton ranging from single biopolymer filaments to multicellular organisms. Throughout this wide range of phenomena, the focus is set on the intertwined nature of the different physical scales (levels of complexity) that give rise to numerous emergent properties by means of self-organization or self-assembly.

Connexin mimetic peptides inhibit Cx43 hemichannel opening triggered by voltage and intracellular Ca2+ elevation

Connexin mimetic peptides (CxMPs), such as Gap26 and Gap27, are known as inhibitors of gap junction channels but evidence is accruing that these peptides also inhibit unapposed/non-junctional hemichannels (HCs) residing in the plasma membrane. We used voltage clamp studies to investigate the effect of Gap26/27 at the single channel level. Such an approach allows unequivocal identification of HC currents by their single channel conductance that is typically ~220 pS for Cx43. In HeLa cells stably transfected with Cx43 (HeLa-Cx43), Gap26/27 peptides inhibited Cx43 HC unitary currents over minutes and increased the voltage threshold for HC opening. By contrast, an elevation of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) to 200-500 nM potentiated the unitary HC current activity and lowered the voltage threshold for HC opening. Interestingly, Gap26/27 inhibited the Ca(2+)-potentiated HC currents and prevented lowering of the voltage threshold for HC opening. Experiments on isolated pig ventricular cardiomyocytes, which display strong endogenous Cx43 expression, demonstrated voltage-activated unitary currents with biophysical properties of Cx43 HCs that were inhibited by small interfering RNA targeting Cx43. As observed in HeLa-Cx43 cells, HC current activity in ventricular cardiomyocytes was potentiated by [Ca(2+)](i) elevation to 500 nM and was inhibited by Gap26/27. Our results indicate that under pathological conditions, when [Ca(2+)](i) is elevated, Cx43 HC opening is promoted in cardiomyocytes and CxMPs counteract this effect.

Intercellular Ca(2+) waves: mechanisms and function

Intercellular calcium (Ca(2+)) waves (ICWs) represent the propagation of increases in intracellular Ca(2+) through a syncytium of cells and appear to be a fundamental mechanism for coordinating multicellular responses. ICWs occur in a wide diversity of cells and have been extensively studied in vitro. More recent studies focus on ICWs in vivo. ICWs are triggered by a variety of stimuli and involve the release of Ca(2+) from internal stores. The propagation of ICWs predominately involves cell communication with internal messengers moving via gap junctions or extracellular messengers mediating paracrine signaling. ICWs appear to be important in both normal physiology as well as pathophysiological processes in a variety of organs and tissues including brain, liver, retina, cochlea, and vascular tissue. We review here the mechanisms of initiation and propagation of ICWs, the key intra- and extracellular messengers (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and ATP) mediating ICWs, and the proposed physiological functions of ICWs.

Characterization of the structure and intermolecular interactions between the connexin 32 carboxyl-terminal domain and the protein partners synapse-associated protein 97 and calmodulin

In Schwann cells, connexin 32 (Cx32) can oligomerize to form intracellular gap junction channels facilitating a shorter pathway for metabolite diffusion across the layers of the myelin sheath. The mechanisms of Cx32 intracellular channel regulation have not been clearly defined. However, Ca(2+), pH, and the phosphorylation state can regulate Cx32 gap junction channels, in addition to the direct interaction of protein partners with the carboxyl-terminal (CT) domain. In this study, we used different biophysical methods to determine the structure and characterize the interaction of the Cx32CT domain with the protein partners synapse-associated protein 97 (SAP97) and calmodulin (CaM). Our results revealed that the Cx32CT is an intrinsically disordered protein that becomes α-helical upon binding CaM. We identified the GUK domain as the minimal SAP97 region necessary for the Cx32CT interaction. The Cx32CT residues affected by the binding of CaM and the SAP97 GUK domain were determined as well as the dissociation constants for these interactions. We characterized three Cx32CT Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease mutants (R219H, R230C, and F235C) and identified that whereas they all formed functional channels, they all showed reduced binding affinity for SAP97 and CaM. Additionally, we report that in RT4-D6P2T rat schwannoma cells, Cx32 is differentially phosphorylated and exists in a complex with SAP97 and CaM. Our studies support the importance of protein-protein interactions in the regulation of Cx32 gap junction channels and myelin homeostasis.

High temperatures alter physiological properties of pyramidal cells and inhibitory interneurons in hippocampus

Temperature has multiple effects on neurons, yet little is known about the effects of high temperature on the physiology of mammalian central neurons. Hyperthermia can influence behavior and cause febrile seizures. We studied the effects of acute hyperthermia on the immature hippocampus in vitro by recording from pyramidal neurons and inhibitory oriens-lacunosum moleculare (O-LM) interneurons (identified by green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression in the GIN mouse line). Warming to 41°C caused depolarization, spontaneous action potentials, reduced input resistance and membrane time constant, and increased spontaneous synaptic activity of most pyramidal cells and O-LM interneurons. Pyramidal neurons of area CA3 were more strongly excited by hyperthermia than those of area CA1. About 90% of O-LM interneurons in both CA1 and CA3 increased their firing rates at hyperthermic temperatures; interneurons in CA3 fired faster than those in CA1 on average. Blockade of fast synaptic transmission did not abolish the effect of hyperthermia on neuronal excitability. Our results suggest that hyperthermia increases hippocampal excitability, particularly in seizure-prone area CA3, by altering the intrinsic membrane properties of pyramidal cells and interneurons.

Neurons and β-cells of the pancreas express connexin36, forming gap junction channels that exhibit strong cationic selectivity

We examined the permeability of connexin36 (Cx36) homotypic gap junction (GJ) channels, expressed in neurons and β-cells of the pancreas, to dyes differing in molecular mass and net charge. Experiments were performed in HeLa cells stably expressing Cx36 tagged with EGFP by combining a dual whole-cell voltage clamp and fluorescence imaging. To assess the permeability of the single GJ channel (P(γ)), we used a dual-mode excitation of fluorescent dyes that allowed us to measure cell-to-cell dye transfer at levels not resolvable using whole-field excitation solely. We demonstrate that P(γ) of Cx36 for cationic dyes (EAM-1⁺ and EAM-2⁺) is ~10-fold higher than that for an anionic dye of the same net charge and similar molecular mass, Alexa fluor-350 (AFl-350⁻). In addition, P(γ) for Lucifer yellow (LY²⁻) is approximately fourfold smaller than that for AFl-350⁻, which suggests that the higher negativity of LY²⁻ significantly reduces permeability. The P(γ) of Cx36 for AFl-350 is approximately 358, 138, 23 and four times smaller than the P(γ)s of Cx43, Cx40, Cx45, and Cx57, respectively. In contrast, it is 6.5-fold higher than the P(γ) of mCx30.2, which exhibits a smaller single-channel conductance. Thus, Cx36 GJs are highly cation-selective and should exhibit relatively low permeability to numerous vital negatively charged metabolites and high permeability to K⁺, a major charge carrier in cell-cell communication.

Gating of connexin 43 gap junctions by a cytoplasmic loop calmodulin binding domain

Calmodulin (CaM) binding sites were recently identified on the cytoplasmic loop (CL) of at least three α-subfamily connexins (Cx43, Cx44, Cx50), while Cx40 does not have this putative CaM binding domain. The purpose of this study was to examine the functional relevance of the putative Cx43 CaM binding site on the Ca(2+)-dependent regulation of gap junction proteins formed by Cx43 and Cx40. Dual whole cell patch-clamp experiments were performed on stable murine Neuro-2a cells expressing Cx43 or Cx40. Addition of ionomycin to increase external Ca(2+) influx reduced Cx43 gap junction conductance (G(j)) by 95%, while increasing cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration threefold. By contrast, Cx40 G(j) declined by <20%. The Ca(2+)-induced decline in Cx43 G(j) was prevented by pretreatment with calmidazolium or reversed by the addition of 10 mM EGTA to Ca(2+)-free extracellular solution, if Ca(2+) chelation was commenced before complete uncoupling, after which g(j) was only 60% recoverable. The Cx43 CL(136-158) mimetic peptide, but not the scrambled control peptide, or Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent kinase II 290-309 inhibitory peptide also prevented the Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent decline of Cx43 G(j). Cx43 gap junction channel open probability decreased to zero without reductions in the current amplitudes during external Ca(2+)/ionomycin perfusion. We conclude that Cx43 gap junctions are gated closed by a Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent mechanism involving the carboxyl-terminal quarter of the connexin CL domain. This study provides the first evidence of intrinsic differences in the Ca(2+) regulatory properties of Cx43 and Cx40.

Calcium-mediated cell death during myocardial reperfusion

Reperfusion may induce additional cell death in patients with acute myocardial infarction receiving primary angioplasty or thrombolysis. Altered intracellular Ca(2+) handling was initially considered an essential mechanism of reperfusion-induced cardiomyocyte death. However, more recent studies have demonstrated the importance of Ca(2+)-independent mechanisms that converge on mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) and are shared by cardiomyocytes and other cell types. This article analyses the importance of Ca(2+)-dependent cell death in light of these new observations. Altered Ca(2+) handling includes increased cytosolic Ca(2+) levels, leading to activation of calpain-mediated proteolysis and sarcoplasmic reticulum-driven oscillations; this can induce hypercontracture, but also MPT due to the privileged Ca(2+) transfer between sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria through cytosolic Ca(2+) microdomains. In the opposite direction, permeability transition can worsen altered Ca(2+) handling and favour hypercontracture. Ca(2+) appears to play an important role in cell death during the initial minutes of reperfusion, particularly after brief periods of ischaemia. Developing effective and safe treatments to prevent Ca(2+)-mediated cardiomyocyte death in patients with transient ischaemia, by targeting Ca(2+) influx, intracellular Ca(2+) handling, or Ca(2+)-induced cell death effectors, is an unmet challenge with important therapeutic implications and large potential clinical impact.

The role of connexins in prostate cancer promotion and progression

Prostate cancer is a prevalent disease that is characterized by a presumably long latency period and a moderate propensity to metastasize. Although a range of mechanisms have been implicated in prostate carcinogenesis, the factors determining the initiation of metastasis remain obscure. The synchronized function of prostate cells depends on their metabolic and electrical coupling; disturbance of these functions has long been suggested to be integral to prostate carcinogenesis. However, although connexins form intercellular channels involved in gap-junction-mediated intercellular coupling (GJIC), whether these proteins also have GJIC-independent roles in cancer progression and metastasis remains a matter of debate. Some data indicate a correlation between connexin expression and the invasive potential of prostate cancer cells, which points to stage-specific functions of connexins during prostate cancer development. For example, restoration of connexin expression seems to be crucial for the formation of invasive cell subsets within heterogeneous prostate cancer cell populations that have undergone aberrant differentiation. Consequently, the clinical application of therapeutic and prophylactic approaches focused on the modulation of connexin expression in prostate cancer cells should be reconsidered.

Gap26, a connexin mimetic peptide, inhibits currents carried by connexin43 hemichannels and gap junction channels

Connexin mimetic peptides corresponding to short conserved extracellular loop sequences of connexins have been used widely as reversible inhibitors of gap junctional intercellular communication. These peptides also block movement of ATP and Ca(2+) across connexin hemichannels, i.e. hexameric channels yet to dock with partners in aligned cells and to generate the gap junction cell-cell conduit. By means of electrophysiology, we compared the effects of Gap26, a mimetic peptide corresponding to a short linear sequence in the first extracellular loop of connexin43, on connexin channel function in HeLa cells expressing connexin43. We demonstrate that Gap26 inhibited electrical coupling in cell pairs mediated by gap junctions after exposure for 30min. In contrast, Gap26 applied to single cells, inhibited hemichannel currents evoked in low Ca(2+) solution with a response time of less than 5min. The results further support the view that the likely primary and direct inhibitory effect of Gap26 is on connexin hemichannels, with gap junctions becoming inhibited later. The mechanism of action of Gap26 in blocking hemichannels and gap junction channels is discussed in the context of their different functions and locations.

pH-dependent channel gating in connexin26 hemichannels involves conformational changes in N-terminus

Connexin (Cx) hemichannels controlling an exchange of ions and metabolites between the cytoplasm and extracellular milieu can be modulated by the variation of intracellular pH during physiological and pathological conditions. To address the mechanism by which the pH exerts its effect on hemichannels, we have performed two 100-ns molecular dynamics simulations of the Cx26 channel in both acidic and neutral states. The results show that: 1) transmembrane domains undergo clockwise motions around the pore axis under both acidic and neutral conditions, while extracellular segments keep stable. 2) Under neutral condition, Cx26 has a tightly closed configuration that occurs through the assembly of N-terminal helix (NTH) region. This shows a constriction formed by the interhelical interactions of Asp2 and Met1 from neighboring NTH, which shapes the narrowest segment (pore radius<2Å) of the pore, preventing the passage of ions from the extracellular side. This indicates that Asp2 may act as a channel gate. 3) Under the acidic condition, the constriction is relieved by the protonation of Asp2 causing interruption of interhelical interactions, Cx26 has a flexibly opening pore (pore radius>4.5Å) around NTH region, allowing the passage of chloride ions unimpeded by the side-chain Asp2. While in the extracellular part two chloride ions interact with the side-chain Lys41 from three subunits. Finally, we provide a plausible mechanism of pH-dependent gating of hemichannel that involves protonation of the aspartic residues, suggesting that the pH sensitivity of hemichannel permeability is a sophisticated mechanism for cell regulating ion permeation.

Mechanisms of VEGF- and glutamate-induced inhibition of osmotic swelling of murine retinal glial (Müller) cells: indications for the involvement of vesicular glutamate release and connexin-mediated ATP release

We determined the mechanisms of glutamate and ATP release from murine retinal glial (Müller) cells by pharmacological manipulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)- and glutamate-induced inhibition of cellular swelling under hypoosmotic conditions. It has been shown that exogenous glutamate inhibits hypoosmotic swelling of rat Müller cells via the induction of the release of ATP (Uckermann et al. in J Neurosci Res 83:538-550, 53). VEGF was shown to inhibit hypoosmotic swelling of rat Müller cells by inducing the release of glutamate (Wurm et al. in J Neurochem 104:386-399, 55). The swelling-inhibitory effect of VEGF in murine Müller cells was blocked by an inhibitor of vesicular exocytosis, by a modulator of the allosteric site of vesicular glutamate transporters, and by inhibitors of phospholipase C and protein kinase C. The swelling-inhibitory effect of glutamate in murine Müller cells was prevented by inhibitors of connexin hemichannels. The effects of both VEGF and glutamate were blocked by tetrodotoxin and by an inhibitor of T-type voltage-gated calcium channels. Murine Müller cells display connexin-43 immunoreactivity. The data suggest that Müller cells of the murine retina may release glutamate by vesicular exocytosis, whereas ATP is released through connexin hemichannels.

Calcium and connexin-based intercellular communication, a deadly catch?

Ca(2+) is known as a universal messenger mediating a wide variety of cellular processes, including cell death. In fact, this ion has been proposed as the 'cell death master', not only at the intracellular but also at the intercellular level. The most direct form of intercellular spread of cell death is mediated by gap junction channels. These channels have been shown to propagate cell death as well as cell survival signals between the cytoplasm of neighbouring cells, reflecting the dual role of Ca(2+) signals, i.e. cell death versus survival. Its precursor, the unopposed hemichannel (half of a gap junction channel), has recently joined in as a toxic pore connecting the intracellular with the extracellular environment and allowing the passage of a range of substances. The biochemical nature of the so-called intercellular cell death molecule, transferred through gap junctions or released/taken up via hemichannels, remains elusive but several studies pinpoint Ca(2+) itself or its messenger inositol trisphosphate as the responsible masters in crime. Although direct evidence is still lacking, indirect data including Ca(2+) involvement in intercellular communication and cell death, and effects of intercellular communication on intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis, support this hypothesis. In addition, hemichannels and their molecular building blocks, connexin or pannexin proteins, may exert their effects on Ca(2+)-dependent cell death at the intracellular level, independently from their channel functions. This review provides a cutting edge overview of the current knowledge and underscores the intimate connection between intercellular communication, Ca(2+) signalling and cell death.

Contribution of delayed intracellular pH recovery to ischemic postconditioning protection

Ischemic postconditioning (PoCo) has been proven to be a feasible approach to attenuate reperfusion injury and enhance myocardial salvage in patients with acute myocardial infarction, but its mechanisms have not been completely elucidated yet. Recent studies demonstrate that PoCo may delay the recovery of intracellular pH during initial reperfusion, and that its ability to limit infarct size critically depends on this effect. Prolongation of postischemic intracellular acidosis inhibits hypercontracture, mitochondrial permeability transition, calpain-mediated proteolysis, and gap junction-mediated spread of injury during the first minutes of reflow. This role of prolonged acidosis does not exclude the participation of other pathways in PoCo-induced cardioprotection. On the contrary, it may allow these pathways to act by preventing immediate reperfusion-induced cell death. Moreover, the existence of interactions between intracellular acidosis and endogenous protection signaling cannot be excluded and needs to be investigated. The role of prolonged acidosis in PoCo cardioprotection has important implications in the design of optimal PoCo protocols and in the translation of cardioprotective strategies to patients with on-going myocardial infarction receiving coronary reperfusion.

cGMP/PKG pathway mediates myocardial postconditioning protection in rat hearts by delaying normalization of intracellular acidosis during reperfusion

Ischemic postconditioning has been demonstrated to limit infarct size in patients, but its molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Low intracellular pH (pHi) inhibits mitochondrial permeability transition, calpain activation and hypercontracture. Recently, delayed normalization of pHi during reperfusion has been shown to play an important role in postconditioning protection, but its relation with intracellular protective signaling cascades is unknown. The present study investigates the relation between the rate of pHi normalization and the cGMP/PKG pathway in postconditioned myocardium. In isolated Sprague-Dawley rat hearts submitted to transient ischemia both, postconditioning and acidic reperfusion protocols resulted in a similar delay in pHi recovery measured by (31)P-NMR spectroscopy (3.6±0.2min and 3.5±0.2min respectively vs. 1.4±0.2min in control group, P<0.01) and caused equivalent cardioprotection (48% and 41% of infarct reduction respectively, P<0.01), but only postconditioning increased myocardial cGMP levels (P=0.02) and activated PKG. Blockade of cGMP/PKG pathway by the addition of the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ or the PKG inhibitor KT5823 during reperfusion accelerated pHi recovery and abolished cardioprotection in postconditioned hearts, but had no effect in hearts subjected to acidic reperfusion suggesting that PKG signaling was upstream of delayed pHi normalization in postconditioned hearts. In isolated cardiomyocytes the cGMP analog 8-pCPT-cGMP delayed Na(+)/H(+)-exchange mediated pHi normalization after acidification induced by a NH(4)Cl pulse. These results demonstrate that the cGMP/PKG pathway contributes to postconditioning protection at least in part by delaying normalization of pHi during reperfusion, probably via PKG-dependent inhibition of Na(+)/H(+)-exchanger.

Connexin 43 hemichannels mediate the Ca2+ influx induced by extracellular alkalinization

Although alkaline pH is known to trigger Ca(2+) influx in diverse cells, no pH-sensitive Ca(2+) channel has been identified. Here, we report that extracellular alkalinization induces opening of connexin 43 hemichannels (Cx43 HCs). Increasing extracellular pH from 7.4 to 8.5, in the presence of physiological Ca(2+)/Mg(2+) concentrations, rapidly increased the ethidium uptake rate and open probability of HCs in Cx43 and Cx43EGFP HeLa transfectants (HeLa-Cx3 and HeLa-Cx43EGFP, respectively) but not in parental HeLa cells (HeLa-parental) lacking Cx43 HCs. The increase in ethidium uptake induced by pH 8.5 was not affected by raising the extracellular Ca(2+) concentration from 1.8 to 10 mM but was inhibited by a connexin HC inhibitor (La(3+)). Probenecid, a pannexin HC blocker, had no effect. Extracellular alkalinization increased the intracellular Ca(2+) levels only in cells expressing HCs. The above changes induced by extracellular alkalinization did not change the cellular distribution of Cx43, suggesting that HC activation occurs through a gating mechanism. Experiments on cells expressing a COOH-terminal truncated Cx43 mutant indicated that the effects of alkalinization on intracellular Ca(2+) and ethidium uptake did not depend on the Cx43 C terminus. Moreover, purified dephosphorylated Cx43 HCs reconstituted in liposomes were Ca(2+) permeable, suggesting that Ca(2+) influx through Cx43 HCs could account for the elevation in intracellular Ca(2+) elicited by extracellular alkalinization. These studies identify a membrane pathway for Ca(2+) influx and provide a potential explanation for the activation of cellular events induced by extracellular alkalinization.

Magnesium gating of cardiac gap junction channels

We aimed to study kinetics of modulation by intracellular Mg(2+) of cardiac gap junction (Mg(2+) gate). Paired myocytes of guinea-pig ventricle were superfused with solutions containing various concentrations of Mg(2+). In order to rapidly apply Mg(2+) to one aspect of the gap junction, the non-junctional membrane of one of the pair was perforated at nearly the connecting site by pulses of nitrogen laser beam. The gap junction conductance (G(j)) was measured by clamping the membrane potential of the other cell using two-electrode voltage clamp method. The laser perforation immediately increased G(j), followed by slow G(j) change with time constant of 3.5 s at 10 mM Mg(2+). Mg(2+) more than 1.0 mM attenuated dose-dependently the gap junction conductance and lower Mg(2+) (0.6 mM) increased G(j) with a Hill coefficient of 3.4 and a half-maximum effective concentration of 0.6 mM. The time course of G(j) changes was fitted by single exponential function, and the relationship between the reciprocal of time constant and Mg(2+) concentration was almost linear. Based on the experimental data, a mathematical model of Mg(2+) gate with one open state and three closed states well reproduced experimental results. One-dimensional cable model of thirty ventricular myocytes connected to the Mg(2+) gate model suggested a pivotal role of the Mg(2+) gate of gap junction under pathological conditions.

pH-dependent modulation of voltage gating in connexin45 homotypic and connexin45/connexin43 heterotypic gap junctions

Intracellular pH (pH(i)) can change during physiological and pathological conditions causing significant changes of electrical and metabolic cell-cell communication through gap junction (GJ) channels. In HeLa cells expressing wild-type connexin45 (Cx45) as well as Cx45 and Cx43 tagged with EGFP, we examined how pH(i) affects junctional conductance (g(j)) and g(j) dependence on transjunctional voltage (V(j)). To characterize V(j) gating, we fit the g(j)-V(j) relation using a stochastic four-state model containing one V(j)-sensitive gate in each apposed hemichannel (aHC); aHC open probability was a Boltzmann function of the fraction of V(j) across it. Using the model, we estimated gating parameters characterizing sensitivity to V(j) and number of functional channels. In homotypic Cx45 and heterotypic Cx45/Cx43-EGFP GJs, pH(i) changes from 7.2 to approximately 8.0 shifted g(j)-V(j) dependence of Cx45 aHCs along the V(j) axis resulting in increased probability of GJ channels being in the fully open state without change in the slope of g(j) dependence on V(j). In contrast, acidification shifted g(j)-V(j) dependence in the opposite direction, reducing open probability; acidification also reduced the number of functional channels. Correlation between the number of channels in Cx45-EGFP GJs and maximal g(j) achieved under alkaline conditions showed that only approximately 4% of channels were functional. The acid dissociation constant (pK(a)) of g(j)-pH(i) dependence of Cx45/Cx45 GJs was approximately 7. The pK(a) of heterotypic Cx45/Cx43-EGFP GJs was lower, approximately 6.7, between the pK(a)s of Cx45 and Cx43-EGFP (approximately 6.5) homotypic GJs. In summary, pH(i) significantly modulates junctional conductance of Cx45 by affecting both V(j) gating and number of functional channels.

Gap junctions in inherited human disease

Gap junctions (GJ) provide direct intercellular communication. The structures underlying these cell junctions are membrane-associated channels composed of six integral membrane connexin (Cx) proteins, which can form communicating channels connecting the cytoplasms of adjacent cells. This provides coupled cells with a direct pathway for sharing ions, nutrients, or small metabolites to establish electrical coupling or balancing metabolites in various tissues. Genetic approaches have uncovered a still growing number of mutations in Cxs related to human diseases including deafness, skin disease, peripheral and central neuropathies, cataracts, or cardiovascular dysfunctions. The discovery of a growing number of inherited human disorders provides an unequivocal demonstration that gap junctional communication is crucial for diverse physiological processes.

Pharmacological and genetic approaches to study connexin-mediated channels in glial cells of the central nervous system

This review gives an overview of connexin expression in glial cells of the central nervous system, the different modes of connexin action, including gap junctional channels and hemichannels, as well as the available methodologies to measure their activity. We summarize the strengths and limitations of current pharmacological and genetic approaches to interfere with connexin channel functions. We outline new avenues not only to study specific mechanisms by which connexins exert these functions but also to selectively investigate well-defined coupling compartments among glial networks.

Voltage-dependent facilitation of Cx46 hemichannels

Gap junction channels are formed by two hemichannels in series (one from each neighboring cell), which are in turn connexin hexamers. Under normal conditions, hemichannels at the plasma membrane are mostly closed but can be opened by changes in membrane voltage, extracellular divalent ion concentration, phosphorylation, pH, and redox potential. Recently, interactions between channels have been found to modulate the activity of several ion channels, including gap junction channels. Here, we studied whether connexin46 (Cx46) hemichannels display such behavior. We studied the response of the Cx46 hemichannels expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes to consecutive depolarization pulses. Hemichannels formed by wild-type Cx46 and a COOH-terminal domain truncation mutant (Cx46DeltaCT) were activated by voltage pulses. When the hemichannels were depolarized repeatedly from -60 mV to +80 mV, the amplitude of the outward and tail currents increased progressively with successive pulses. This phenomenon ("current facilitation") depended on the amplitude of the depolarization, reaching a maximum at approximately +60 mV in oocytes expressing Cx46, and on the interval between pulses, disappearing with intervals longer than about 20 s. The current facilitation was also present in oocytes expressing Cx46DeltaCT, ruling out a primary role of this domain in the facilitation. Nominal removal of divalent cations from the extracellular side caused maximal current activation of Cx46 and Cx46DeltaCT hemichannels and prevented facilitation. The results suggest that Cx46 hemichannels show a cooperative activation independent of their COOH-terminal domain.

Connexin43 in cardiomyocyte mitochondria contributes to mitochondrial potassium uptake

AIMS

Connexin43 is present at the inner membrane of cardiomyocyte mitochondria (mCx43), but its function remains unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study we verified the presence of mCx43 by a mass spectrometry-based proteomic approach in purified mitochondrial preparations from mouse myocardium and determined by western blot analysis that the C-terminus of mCx43 is oriented towards the intermembrane space. Cross-linking studies with dimethylsuberimidate indicated the presence of Cx43 hexamers in mitochondrial membranes. The contribution of Cx43 to both mitochondrial dye uptake and K(+) flux was assessed in wild-type mice using hemichannel blockers and Cx43KI32 mice in which Cx43 had been replaced by Cx32. Uptake of the Cx43 hemichannel-permeant dye Lucifer Yellow was reduced in mitochondria from wild-type mice by two hemichannel blockers (carbenoxolone and heptanol) and in Cx43KI32 compared with wild-type mice. Mitochondrial K(+) influx (PBFI fluorescence) was decreased in digitonin-permeabilized cardiomyocytes from Cx32 mutants compared with wild-type mice, and addition of the Cx43 hemichannel blocker 18alpha-glycyrrhetinic acid had an inhibitory effect on mitochondrial K(+) influx in wild-type cardiomyocytes, but not in cardiomyocytes from Cx32 mutants.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that mCx43 contributes to mitochondrial K(+) flux in cardiomyocytes, potentially by forming hemichannel-like structures.

Mathematical modelling of calcium wave propagation in mammalian airway epithelium: evidence for regenerative ATP release

Airway epithelium has been shown to exhibit intracellular calcium waves after mechanical stimulation. Two classes of mechanism have been proposed to explain calcium wave propagation: diffusion through gap junctions of the intracellular messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), and diffusion of paracrine extracellular messengers such as ATP. We have used single cell recordings of airway epithelium to parameterize a model of an airway epithelial cell. This was then incorporated into a spatial model of a cell culture where both mechanisms for calcium wave propagation are possible. It is shown that a decreasing return on the radius of Ca2+ wave propagation is achieved as the amount of ATP released from the stimulated cell increases. It is therefore shown that for a Ca2+ wave to propagate large distances, a significant fraction of the intracellular ATP pool would be required to be released. Further to this, the radial distribution of maximal calcium response from the stimulated cell does not produce the same flat profile of maximal calcium response seen in experiential studies. This suggests that an additional mechanism is important in Ca2+ wave propagation, such as regenerative release of ATP from cells downstream of the stimulated cell.

Ca(2+) regulation of connexin 43 hemichannels in C6 glioma and glial cells

Connexin hemichannels have a low open probability under normal conditions but open in response to various stimuli, forming a release pathway for small paracrine messengers. We investigated hemichannel-mediated ATP responses triggered by changes of intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) in Cx43 expressing glioma cells and primary glial cells. The involvement of hemichannels was confirmed with gja1 gene-silencing and exclusion of other release mechanisms. Hemichannel responses were triggered when [Ca(2+)](i) was in the 500nM range but the responses disappeared with larger [Ca(2+)](i) transients. Ca(2+)-triggered responses induced by A23187 and glutamate activated a signaling cascade that involved calmodulin (CaM), CaM-dependent kinase II, p38 mitogen activated kinase, phospholipase A2, arachidonic acid (AA), lipoxygenases, cyclo-oxygenases, reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and depolarization. Hemichannel responses were also triggered by activation of CaM with a Ca(2+)-like peptide or exogenous application of AA, and the cascade was furthermore operational in primary glial cells isolated from rat cortex. In addition, several positive feed-back loops contributed to amplify the responses. We conclude that an elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) triggers hemichannel opening, not by a direct action of Ca(2+) on hemichannels but via multiple intermediate signaling steps that are adjoined by distinct signaling mechanisms activated by high [Ca(2+)](i) and acting to restrain cellular ATP loss.

Calmodulin mediates the Ca2+-dependent regulation of Cx44 gap junctions

We have shown previously that the Ca2+-dependent inhibition of lens epithelial cell-to-cell communication is mediated in part by the direct association of calmodulin (CaM) with connexin43 (Cx43), the major connexin in these cells. We now show that elevation of [Ca2+](i) in HeLa cells transfected with the lens fiber cell gap junction protein sheep Cx44 also results in the inhibition of cell-to-cell dye transfer. A peptide comprising the putative CaM binding domain (aa 129-150) of the intracellular loop region of this connexin exhibited a high affinity, stoichiometric interaction with Ca2+-CaM. NMR studies indicate that the binding of Cx44 peptide to CaM reflects a classical embracing mode of interaction. The interaction is an exothermic event that is both enthalpically and entropically driven in which electrostatic interactions play an important role. The binding of the Cx44 peptide to CaM increases the CaM intradomain cooperativity and enhances the Ca2+-binding affinities of the C-domain of CaM more than twofold by slowing the rate of Ca2+ release from the complex. Our data suggest a common mechanism by which the Ca2+-dependent inhibition of the alpha-class of gap junction proteins is mediated by the direct association of an intracellular loop region of these proteins with Ca2+-CaM.

Connexins: a myriad of functions extending beyond assembly of gap junction channels

Connexins constitute a large family of trans-membrane proteins that allow intercellular communication and the transfer of ions and small signaling molecules between cells. Recent studies have revealed complex translational and post-translational mechanisms that regulate connexin synthesis, maturation, membrane transport and degradation that in turn modulate gap junction intercellular communication. With the growing myriad of connexin interacting proteins, including cytoskeletal elements, junctional proteins, and enzymes, gap junctions are now perceived, not only as channels between neighboring cells, but as signaling complexes that regulate cell function and transformation. Connexins have also been shown to form functional hemichannels and have roles altogether independent of channel functions, where they exert their effects on proliferation and other aspects of life and death of the cell through mostly-undefined mechanisms. This review provides an updated overview of current knowledge of connexins and their interacting proteins, and it describes connexin modulation in disease and tumorigenesis.

Spike frequency adaptation mediates looming stimulus selectivity in a collision-detecting neuron

How active membrane conductance dynamics tunes neurons for specific time-varying stimuli remains poorly understood. We studied the biophysical mechanisms by which spike frequency adaptation shapes visual stimulus selectivity in an identified visual interneuron of the locust. The lobula giant movement detector (LGMD) responds preferentially to objects approaching on a collision course with the locust. Using calcium imaging, pharmacology and modeling, we show that spike frequency adaptation in the LGMD is mediated by a Ca(2+)-dependent potassium conductance closely resembling those associated with 'small-conductance' (SK) channels. Intracellular block of this conductance minimally affected the LGMD's response to approaching stimuli, but substantially increased its response to translating ones. Thus, spike frequency adaptation contributes to the neuron's tuning by selectively decreasing its responses to nonpreferred stimuli. Our results identify a new mechanism by which spike frequency adaptation may tune visual neurons to behaviorally relevant stimuli.

Connexin-related signaling in cell death: to live or let die?

Evidence is accumulating that some forms of cell death, like apoptosis, are not only governed by the complex interplay between extracellular and intracellular signals but are also strongly influenced by intercellular communicative networks. The latter is provided by arrays of channels consisting of connexin proteins, with gap junctions directly connecting the cytoplasm of neighboring cells and hemichannels positioned as pores that link the cytoplasm to the extracellular environment. The role of gap junctions in cell death communication has received considerable interest and recently hemichannels have joined in as potentially toxic pores adding their part to the cell death process. However, despite a large body of existing evidence, especially for gap junctions, the exact contribution of the connexin channel family still remains controversial, as both gap junctions and hemichannels may furnish cell death as well as cell survival signals. An additional layer of complexity is formed by the fact that connexin proteins as such, beyond their channel function, may influence the cell death process. We here review the current knowledge on connexins and their channels in cell death and specifically address the molecular mechanisms that underlie connexin-related signaling. We also briefly focus on pannexins, a novel set of connexin-like proteins that have been implicated in cellular responses to pathological insults.

Regulation of neuronal connexin-36 channels by pH

Neurotransmission through electrical synapses plays an important role in the spike synchrony among neurons and oscillation of neuronal networks. Indeed, electrical transmission has been implicated in the hypersynchronous electrical activity of epilepsy. We have investigated the influence of intracellular pH on the strength of electrical coupling mediated by connexin36 (Cx36), the principal gap junction protein in the electrical synapses of vertebrates. In striking contrast to other connexin isoforms, the activity of Cx36 channels decreases following alkalosis rather than acidosis when it is expressed in Xenopus oocytes and N2A cells. This uncoupling of Cx36 channels upon alkalinization occurred in the vertebrate orthologues analyzed (human, mouse, chicken, perch, and skate). While intracellular acidification caused a mild or moderate increase in the junctional conductance of virtually all these channels, the coupling of the skate Cx35 channel was partially blocked by acidosis. The mutational analysis suggests that the Cx36 channels may contain two gating mechanisms operating with opposing sensitivity to pH. One gate, the dominant mechanism, closes for alkalosis and it probably involves an interaction between the C- and N-terminal domains, while a secondary acid sensing gate only causes minor, albeit saturating, changes in coupling following acidosis and alkalosis. Thus, we conclude that neuronal Cx36 channels undergo unique regulation by pH(i) since their activity is inhibited by alkalosis rather than acidosis. These data provide a novel basis to define the relevance and consequences of the pH-dependent modulation of Cx36 synapses under physiological and pathological conditions.

Calmodulin association with connexin32-derived peptides suggests trans-domain interaction in chemical gating of gap junction channels

Calmodulin plays a key role in the chemical gating of gap junction channels. Two calmodulin-binding regions have previously been identified in connexin32 gap junction protein, one in the N-terminal and another in the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail of the molecule. The aim of this study was to better understand how calmodulin interacts with the connexin32-binding domains. Lobe-specific interactions of calmodulin with connexin32 peptides were studied by stopped flow kinetics, using Ca(2+) binding-deficient mutants. Peptides corresponding to the N-terminal tail (residues 1-22) of connexin32 engaged both the N- and C-terminal lobes (N- and C-lobes) of calmodulin, binding with higher affinity to the C-lobe of calmodulin (Ca(2+) dissociation rate constants k(3,4), 1.7+/-0.5 s(-1)) than to the N-lobe (k(1,2), 10.8+/-1.3 s(-1)). In contrast, peptides representing the C-terminal tail domain (residues 208-227) of connexin32 bound either the C- or the N-lobe but only one calmodulin lobe at a time (k(3,4), 2.6+/-0.1 s(-1) or k(1), 13.8+/-0.5 s(-1) and k(2), 1000 s(-1)). The calmodulin-binding domains of the N- and C-terminal tails of connexin32 were best defined as residues 1-21 and 216-227, respectively. Our data, showing separate functions of the N- and C-lobes of calmodulin in the interactions with connexin32, suggest trans-domain or trans-subunit bridging by calmodulin as a possible mechanism of gap junction gating.

Adenine nucleotide changes in the remnant liver: An early signal for regeneration after partial hepatectomy

Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PHx) is orchestrated by multiple signals from cytokines and growth factors. We investigated whether increased energy demand on the remnant liver after PHx contributes to regenerative signals. Changes in the tissue's energy state were determined from adenine nucleotide levels. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in remnant livers decreased markedly and rapidly (to 48% of control by 30 seconds post-PHx) and remained significantly lower than those in sham-operated controls for 24 to 48 hours. The ATP decrease was not reflected in corresponding increases in adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP), resulting in a marked decline in total adenine nucleotides (TAN). We found no evidence of mitochondrial damage or uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation. Multiple lines of evidence indicated that the decline in TAN was not caused by increased energy demand, but by ATP release from the liver. The extent of ATP loss was identical after 30% or 70% PHx, whereas fasting or hyperglycemia, conditions that greatly alter energy demand for gluconeogenesis, affected the ATP/ADP decline but not the loss of TAN. Presurgical treatment with the alpha-adrenergic antagonist phentolamine completely prevented loss of TAN, although changes in ATP/ADP were still apparent. Importantly, phentolamine treatment inhibited early signaling events associated with the priming stages of liver regeneration and suppressed the expression of c-fos. Pretreatment with the purinergic receptor antagonist suramin also partly suppressed early regenerative signals and c-fos expression, but without preventing TAN loss.

CONCLUSION

The rapid loss of adenine nucleotides after PHx generates early stress signals that contribute to the onset of liver regeneration.

Divalent cations regulate connexin hemichannels by modulating intrinsic voltage-dependent gating

Connexin hemichannels are robustly regulated by voltage and divalent cations. The basis of voltage-dependent gating, however, has been questioned with reports that it is not intrinsic to hemichannels, but rather is derived from divalent cations acting as gating particles that block the pore in a voltage-dependent manner. Previously, we showed that connexin hemichannels possess two types of voltage-dependent gating, termed V(j) and loop gating, that in Cx46 operate at opposite voltage polarities, positive and negative, respectively. Using recordings of single Cx46 hemichannels, we found both forms of gating persist in solutions containing no added Mg(2+) and EGTA to chelate Ca(2+). Although loop gating persists, it is significantly modulated by changing levels of extracellular divalent cations. When extracellular divalent cation concentrations are low, large hyperpolarizing voltages, exceeding -100 mV, could still drive Cx46 hemichannels toward closure. However, gating is characterized by continuous flickering of the unitary current interrupted by occasional, brief sojourns to a quiet closed state. Addition of extracellular divalent cations, in this case Mg(2+), results in long-lived residence in a quiet closed state, suggesting that hyperpolarization drives the hemichannel to close, perhaps by initiating movements in the extracellular loops, and that divalent cations stabilize the fully closed conformation. Using excised patches, we found that divalent cations are only effective from the extracellular side, indicative that the binding site is not cytoplasmic or in the pore, but rather extracellular. V(j) gating remains essentially unaffected by changing levels of extracellular divalent cations. Thus, we demonstrate that both forms of voltage dependence are intrinsic gating mechanisms in Cx46 hemichannels and that the action of external divalent cations is to selectively modulate loop gating.

Oscillatory transepithelial H(+) flux regulates a rhythmic behavior in C. elegans

In C. elegans, rhythmic defecation is timed by oscillatory Ca(2+) signaling in the intestine [1-5]. Here, by using fluorescent biosensors in live, unrestrained worms, we show that intestinal pH also oscillates during defecation and that transepithelial proton movement is essential for defecation signaling. The intestinal cytoplasm is acidified by proton influx from the lumen during defecation. Acidification is predicted to trigger Na(+)/H(+) exchange activity and subsequent proton efflux. The Na(+)/H(+) exchanger NHX-7 (PBO-4) extrudes protons across the basolateral membrane and is necessary for both acute acidification of the pseudocoelom and for strong contractions of the posterior body wall muscles during defecation. This suggests that secreted protons transmit a signal between the intestine and muscle. NHX-2 is a second Na(+)/H(+) exchanger whose distribution is limited to the apical membranes facing the intestinal lumen. RNA interference of nhx-2 reduces the basal pH of the intestinal cells, reduces the rate of proton movement between the lumen and the cytoplasm during defecation, and extends the defecation period. Thus, the cell may integrate both pH and calcium signals to regulate defecation timing. Overall, these results establish the defecation cycle as a model system for studying transepithelial proton flux in tissues that maintain systemic acid-base balance.

Connexin hemichannel composition determines the FGF-1-induced membrane permeability and free [Ca2+]i responses

Cell surface hemichannels (HCs) composed of different connexin (Cx) types are present in diverse cells and their possible role on FGF-1-induced cellular responses remains unknown. Here, we show that FGF-1 transiently (4-14 h, maximal at 7 h) increases the membrane permeability through HCs in HeLa cells expressing Cx43 or Cx45 under physiological extracellular Ca(2+)/Mg(2+) concentrations. The effect does not occur in HeLa cells expressing HCs constituted of Cx26 or Cx43 with its C-terminus truncated at aa 257, or in parental nontransfected HeLa cells. The increase in membrane permeability is associated with a rise in HC levels at the cell surface and a proportional increase in HC unitary events. The response requires an early intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration increase, activation of a p38 MAP kinase-dependent pathway, and a regulatory site of Cx subunit C-terminus. The FGF-1-induced rise in membrane permeability is also associated with a late increase in intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration, suggesting that responsive HCs allow Ca(2+) influx. The cell density of Cx26 and Cx43 HeLa transfectants cultured in serum-free medium was differentially affected by FGF-1. Thus, the FGF-1-induced cell permeabilization and derived consequences depend on the Cx composition of HCs.