International Union of Pharmacology. LII. Nomenclature and Molecular Relationships of Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels

Kalium: a database of potassium channel toxins from scorpion venom

Kalium (http://kaliumdb.org/) is a manually curated database that accumulates data on potassium channel toxins purified from scorpion venom (KTx). This database is an open-access resource, and provides easy access to pages of other databases of interest, such as UniProt, PDB, NCBI Taxonomy Browser, and PubMed. General achievements of Kalium are a strict and easy regulation of KTx classification based on the unified nomenclature supported by researchers in the field, removal of peptides with partial sequence and entries supported by transcriptomic information only, classification of β-family toxins, and addition of a novel λ-family. Molecules presented in the database can be processed by the Clustal Omega server using a one-click option. Molecular masses of mature peptides are calculated and available activity data are compiled for all KTx. We believe that Kalium is not only of high interest to professional toxinologists, but also of general utility to the scientific community.

Database URL: http://kaliumdb.org/

Involvement of Ca(2+)-Dependent Hyperpolarization in Sleep Duration in Mammals

The detailed molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of sleep duration in mammals are still elusive. To address this challenge, we constructed a simple computational model, which recapitulates the electrophysiological characteristics of the slow-wave sleep and awake states. Comprehensive bifurcation analysis predicted that a Ca(2+)-dependent hyperpolarization pathway may play a role in slow-wave sleep and hence in the regulation of sleep duration. To experimentally validate the prediction, we generate and analyze 21 KO mice. Here we found that impaired Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) channels (Kcnn2 and Kcnn3), voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (Cacna1g and Cacna1h), or Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent kinases (Camk2a and Camk2b) decrease sleep duration, while impaired plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPase (Atp2b3) increases sleep duration. Pharmacological intervention and whole-brain imaging validated that impaired NMDA receptors reduce sleep duration and directly increase the excitability of cells. Based on these results, we propose a hypothesis that a Ca(2+)-dependent hyperpolarization pathway underlies the regulation of sleep duration in mammals.

Inhibiting bacterial toxins by channel blockage

Emergent rational drug design techniques explore individual properties of target biomolecules, small and macromolecule drug candidates, and the physical forces governing their interactions. In this minireview, we focus on the single-molecule biophysical studies of channel-forming bacterial toxins that suggest new approaches for their inhibition. We discuss several examples of blockage of bacterial pore-forming and AB-type toxins by the tailor-made compounds. In the concluding remarks, the most effective rationally designed pore-blocking antitoxins are compared with the small-molecule inhibitors of ion-selective channels of neurophysiology.

Ion channel networks in the control of cerebral blood flow

One hundred and twenty five years ago, Roy and Sherrington made the seminal observation that neuronal stimulation evokes an increase in cerebral blood flow.(1) Since this discovery, researchers have attempted to uncover how the cells of the neurovascular unit-neurons, astrocytes, vascular smooth muscle cells, vascular endothelial cells and pericytes-coordinate their activity to control this phenomenon. Recent work has revealed that ionic fluxes through a diverse array of ion channel species allow the cells of the neurovascular unit to engage in multicellular signaling processes that dictate local hemodynamics.In this review we center our discussion on two major themes: (1) the roles of ion channels in the dynamic modulation of parenchymal arteriole smooth muscle membrane potential, which is central to the control of arteriolar diameter and therefore must be harnessed to permit changes in downstream cerebral blood flow, and (2) the striking similarities in the ion channel complements employed in astrocytic endfeet and endothelial cells, enabling dual control of smooth muscle from either side of the blood-brain barrier. We conclude with a discussion of the emerging roles of pericyte and capillary endothelial cell ion channels in neurovascular coupling, which will provide fertile ground for future breakthroughs in the field.

Vascular Reactivity Profile of Novel KCa 3.1-Selective Positive-Gating Modulators in the Coronary Vascular Bed

Opening of intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (KC a 3.1) produces membrane hyperpolarization in the vascular endothelium. Here, we studied the ability of two new KC a 3.1-selective positive-gating modulators, SKA-111 and SKA-121, to (1) evoke porcine endothelial cell KC a 3.1 membrane hyperpolarization, (2) induce endothelium-dependent and, particularly, endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH)-type relaxation in porcine coronary arteries (PCA) and (3) influence coronary artery tone in isolated rat hearts. In whole-cell patch-clamp experiments on endothelial cells of PCA (PCAEC), KC a currents evoked by bradykinin (BK) were potentiated ≈7-fold by either SKA-111 or SKA-121 (both at 1 μM) and were blocked by a KC a 3.1 blocker, TRAM-34. In membrane potential measurements, SKA-111 and SKA-121 augmented bradykinin-induced hyperpolarization. Isometric tension measurements in large- and small-calibre PCA showed that SKA-111 and SKA-121 potentiated endothelium-dependent relaxation with intact NO synthesis and EDH-type relaxation to BK by ≈2-fold. Potentiation of the BK response was prevented by KC a 3.1 inhibition. In Langendorff-perfused rat hearts, SKA-111 potentiated coronary vasodilation elicited by BK. In conclusion, our data show that positive-gating modulation of KC a 3.1 channels improves BK-induced membrane hyperpolarization and endothelium-dependent relaxation in small and large PCA as well as in the coronary circulation of rats. Positive-gating modulators of KC a 3.1 could be therapeutically useful to improve coronary blood flow and counteract impaired coronary endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular disease.

The Modulation of Potassium Channels in the Smooth Muscle as a Therapeutic Strategy for Disorders of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Alterations of smooth muscle contractility contribute to the pathophysiology of important functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) such as functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. Consequently, drugs that decrease smooth muscle contractility are effective treatments for these diseases. Smooth muscle contraction is mainly triggered by Ca(2+) influx through voltage-dependent channels located in the plasma membrane. Thus, the modulation of the membrane potential results in the regulation of Ca(2+) influx and cytosolic levels. K(+) channels play fundamental roles in these processes. The open probability of K(+) channels increases in response to various stimuli, including membrane depolarization (voltage-gated K(+) [K(V)] channels) and the increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) levels (Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) [K(Ca)] channels). K(+) channel activation is mostly associated with outward K(+) currents that hyperpolarize the membrane and reduce cell excitability and contractility. In addition, some K(+) channels are open at the resting membrane potential values of the smooth muscle cells in some gut segments and contribute to set the resting membrane potential itself. The closure of these channels induces membrane depolarization and smooth muscle contraction. K(V)1.2, 1.5, 2.2, 4.3, 7.4 and 11.1, K(Ca)1.1 and 2.3, and inwardly rectifying type 6K(+) (K(ir)6) channels play the most important functional roles in the gastrointestinal smooth muscle. Activators of all these channels may theoretically relax the gastrointestinal smooth muscle and could therefore be promising new therapeutic options for FGID. The challenge of future drug research and development in this area will be to synthesize molecules selective for the channel assemblies expressed in the gastrointestinal smooth muscle.

Signaling molecules of the CNS as targets of autoimmunity

Ion channels and receptors are the fundamental basis for neuronal communication in the nervous system and are important targets of autoimmunity. The different neuronal domains contain a unique repertoire of voltage-gated Na(+) (Nav), Ca(2+) (Cav), and K(+) (Kv), as well as other K(+) channels and hyperpolarization-gated cyclic nucleotide-regulated channels. The distinct ion channel distribution defines the electrophysiologic properties of different subtypes of neurons. The different neuronal compartments also express neurotransmitter-gated ion channels, or ionotropic receptors, as well as G protein-coupled receptors. Of particular relevance in the central nervous system are excitatory glutamate receptors and inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid and glycine receptors. The interactions among different ion channels and receptors regulate neuronal excitability; frequency and pattern of firing of action potentials (AP); propagation of the AP along the axon; neurotransmitter release at synaptic terminals; AP backpropagation from the axon initial segment to the somatodendritic domain; dendritic integration of synaptic signals; and use-dependent plasticity.

Neuronal and Cardiovascular Potassium Channels as Therapeutic Drug Targets: Promise and Pitfalls

Potassium (K(+)) channels, with their diversity, often tissue-defined distribution, and critical role in controlling cellular excitability, have long held promise of being important drug targets for the treatment of dysrhythmias in the heart and abnormal neuronal activity within the brain. With the exception of drugs that target one particular class, ATP-sensitive K(+) (KATP) channels, very few selective K(+) channel activators or inhibitors are currently licensed for clinical use in cardiovascular and neurological disease. Here we review what a range of human genetic disorders have told us about the role of specific K(+) channel subunits, explore the potential of activators and inhibitors of specific channel populations as a therapeutic strategy, and discuss possible reasons for the difficulty in designing clinically relevant K(+) channel modulators.

Orai1 forms a signal complex with SK3 channel in gallbladder smooth muscle

Orai1 is one of the key components of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) involved in diverse physiological functions. Orai1 may associate with other proteins to form a signaling complex. In the present study, we investigated the interaction between Orai1 and small conductance Ca(2+)-activated potassium channel 3 (SK3). With the use of RNA interference technique, we found that the SOCE and its associated membrane hyperpolarization were reduced while Orai1 was knocked down by a specific Orai1 siRNA in guinea pig gallbladder smooth muscle. However, with the use of isometric tension measurements, our results revealed that agonist-induced muscle contractility was significantly enhanced after Orai1 protein was knocked down or the tissue was treated by SK3 inhibitor apamin, but not affected by larger conductance Ca(2+)-activated potassium channel inhibitor iberiotoxin or intermediate conductance Ca(2+)-activated potassium channel inhibitor TRAM-34. In addition, in the presence of apamin, Orai1 siRNA had no additional effect on agonist-induced contraction. In coimmunoprecipitation experiment, SK3 and Orai1 pulled down each other. These data suggest that, Orai1 physically associated with SK3 to form a signaling complex in gallbladder smooth muscle. Ca(2+) entry via Orai1 activates SK3, resulting in membrane hyperpolarization in gallbladder smooth muscle. This hyperpolarizing effect of Orai1-SK3 coupling could serve to prevent excessive contraction of gallbladder smooth muscle in response to contractile agonists.

Complementary roles of KCa3.1 channels and β1-integrin during alveolar epithelial repair

BACKGROUND

Extensive alveolar epithelial injury and remodelling is a common feature of acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and it has been established that epithelial regeneration, and secondary lung oedema resorption, is crucial for ARDS resolution. Much evidence indicates that K(+) channels are regulating epithelial repair processes; however, involvement of the KCa3.1 channels in alveolar repair has never been investigated before.

RESULTS

Wound-healing assays demonstrated that the repair rates were increased in primary rat alveolar cell monolayers grown on a fibronectin matrix compared to non-coated supports, whereas an anti-β1-integrin antibody reduced it. KCa3.1 inhibition/silencing impaired the fibronectin-stimulated wound-healing rates, as well as cell migration and proliferation, but had no effect in the absence of coating. We then evaluated a putative relationship between KCa3.1 channel and the migratory machinery protein β1-integrin, which is activated by fibronectin. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence experiments indicated a link between the two proteins and revealed their cellular co-distribution. In addition, we demonstrated that KCa3.1 channel and β1-integrin membrane expressions were increased on a fibronectin matrix. We also showed increased intracellular calcium concentrations as well as enhanced expression of TRPC4, a voltage-independent calcium channel belonging to the large TRP channel family, on a fibronectin matrix. Finally, wound-healing assays showed additive effects of KCa3.1 and TRPC4 inhibitors on alveolar epithelial repair.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our data demonstrate for the first time complementary roles of KCa3.1 and TRPC4 channels with extracellular matrix and β1-integrin in the regulation of alveolar repair processes.

Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels at Nodes of Ranvier Secure Axonal Spike Propagation

Functional connectivity between brain regions relies on long-range signaling by myelinated axons. This is secured by saltatory action potential propagation that depends fundamentally on sodium channel availability at nodes of Ranvier. Although various potassium channel types have been anatomically localized to myelinated axons in the brain, direct evidence for their functional recruitment in maintaining node excitability is scarce. Cerebellar Purkinje cells provide continuous input to their targets in the cerebellar nuclei, reliably transmitting axonal spikes over a wide range of rates, requiring a constantly available pool of nodal sodium channels. We show that the recruitment of calcium-activated potassium channels (IK, K_Ca3.1) by local, activity-dependent calcium (Ca²⁺) influx at nodes of Ranvier via a T-type voltage-gated Ca²⁺ current provides a powerful mechanism that likely opposes depolarizing block at the nodes and is thus pivotal to securing continuous axonal spike propagation in spontaneously firing Purkinje cells.

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Activity-dependent node of Ranvier Ca²⁺ influx in Purkinje cell axons

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Ca_v and K_Ca3.1 channels required for axonal spike propagation

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Nodal K_Ca3.1 channels provide repolarizing drive to sustain axonal spike propagation

Inactivation of Endothelial Small/Intermediate Conductance of Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels Contributes to Coronary Arteriolar Dysfunction in Diabetic Patients

Background

Diabetes is associated with coronary arteriolar endothelial dysfunction. We investigated the role of the small/intermediate (SK_Ca/IK_Ca) conductance of calcium-activated potassium channels in diabetes-related endothelial dysfunction.

Methods and Results

Coronary arterioles (80 to 150 μm in diameter) were dissected from discarded right atrial tissues of diabetic (glycosylated hemoglobin = 9.6±0.25) and nondiabetic patients (glycosylated hemoglobin 5.4±0.12) during coronary artery bypass graft surgery (n=8/group). In-vitro relaxation response of precontracted arterioles was examined in the presence of the selective SK_Ca/IK_Ca activator NS309 and other vasodilatory agents. The channel density and membrane potential of diabetic and nondiabetic endothelial cells was measured by using the whole cell patch-clamp technique. The protein expression and distribution of the SK_Ca/IK_Ca in the human myocardium and coronary arterioles was examined by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Our results indicate that diabetes significantly reduced the coronary arteriolar response to the SK_Ca/IK_Ca activator NS309 compared to the respective responses of nondiabetic vessels (P<0.05 versus nondiabetes). The relaxation response of diabetic arterioles to NS309 was prevented by denudation of endothelium (P=0.001 versus endothelium-intact). Diabetes significantly decreased endothelial SK_Ca/IK_Ca currents and hyperpolarization induced by the SK_Ca/IK_Ca activator NS309 as compared with that of nondiabetics. There were no significant differences in the expression and distribution of SK_Ca/IK_Ca proteins in the coronary microvessels.

Conclusions

Diabetes is associated with inactivation of endothelial SK_Ca/IK_Ca channels, which may contribute to endothelial dysfunction in diabetic patients.

Alterations in reversible protein histidine phosphorylation as intracellular signals in cardiovascular disease

Reversible phosphorylation of amino acid side chains in proteins is a frequently used mechanism in cellular signal transduction and alterations of such phosphorylation patterns are very common in cardiovascular diseases. They reflect changes in the activities of the protein kinases and phosphatases involving signaling pathways. Phosphorylation of serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues has been extensively investigated in vertebrates, whereas reversible histidine phosphorylation, a well-known regulatory signal in lower organisms, has been largely neglected as it has been generally assumed that histidine phosphorylation is of minor importance in vertebrates. More recently, it has become evident that the nucleoside diphosphate kinase isoform B (NDPK-B), an ubiquitously expressed enzyme involved in nucleotide metabolism, and a highly specific phosphohistidine phosphatase (PHP) form a regulatory histidine protein kinase/phosphatase system in mammals. At least three well defined substrates of NDPK-B are known: The β-subunit of heterotrimeric G-proteins (Gβ), the intermediate conductance potassium channel SK4 and the Ca(2+) conducting TRP channel family member, TRPV5. In each of these proteins the phosphorylation of a specific histidine residue regulates cellular signal transduction or channel activity. This article will therefore summarize our current knowledge on protein histidine phosphorylation and highlight its relevance for cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology.

Oxidative Stress and Maxi Calcium-Activated Potassium (BK) Channels

All cells contain ion channels in their outer (plasma) and inner (organelle) membranes. Ion channels, similar to other proteins, are targets of oxidative impact, which modulates ion fluxes across membranes. Subsequently, these ion currents affect electrical excitability, such as action potential discharge (in neurons, muscle, and receptor cells), alteration of the membrane resting potential, synaptic transmission, hormone secretion, muscle contraction or coordination of the cell cycle. In this chapter we summarize effects of oxidative stress and redox mechanisms on some ion channels, in particular on maxi calcium-activated potassium (BK) channels which play an outstanding role in a plethora of physiological and pathophysiological functions in almost all cells and tissues. We first elaborate on some general features of ion channel structure and function and then summarize effects of oxidative alterations of ion channels and their functional consequences.

Functional coupling between sodium-activated potassium channels and voltage-dependent persistent sodium currents in cricket Kenyon cells

In this study, we examined the functional coupling between Na(+)-activated potassium (KNa) channels and Na(+) influx through voltage-dependent Na(+) channels in Kenyon cells isolated from the mushroom body of the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. Single-channel activity of KNa channels was recorded with the cell-attached patch configuration. The open probability (Po) of KNa channels increased with increasing Na(+) concentration in a bath solution, whereas it decreased by the substitution of Na(+) with an equimolar concentration of Li(+). The Po of KNa channels was also found to be reduced by bath application of a high concentration of TTX (1 μM) and riluzole (100 μM), which inhibits both fast (INaf) and persistent (INaP) Na(+) currents, whereas it was unaffected by a low concentration of TTX (10 nM), which selectively blocks INaf. Bath application of Cd(2+) at a low concentration (50 μM), as an inhibitor of INaP, also decreased the Po of KNa channels. Conversely, bath application of the inorganic Ca(2+)-channel blockers Co(2+) and Ni(2+) at high concentrations (500 μM) had little effect on the Po of KNa channels, although Cd(2+) (500 μM) reduced the Po of KNa channels. Perforated whole cell clamp analysis further indicated the presence of sustained outward currents for which amplitude was dependent on the amount of Na(+) influx. Taken together, these results indicate that KNa channels could be activated by Na(+) influx passing through voltage-dependent persistent Na(+) channels. The functional significance of this coupling mechanism was discussed in relation to the membrane excitability of Kenyon cells and its possible role in the formation of long-term memory.

Pharmacological gating modulation of small- and intermediate-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (KCa2.x and KCa3.1)

This short review discusses pharmacological modulation of the opening/closing properties (gating) of small- and intermediate-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (KCa2 and KCa3.1) with special focus on mechanisms-of-action, selectivity, binding sites, and therapeutic potentials. Despite KCa channel gating-modulation being a relatively novel field in drug discovery, efforts in this area have already revealed a surprising plethora of pharmacological sites-of-actions and channel subtype selectivity exerted by different chemical classes. The currently published positive modulators show that such molecules are potentially useful for the treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders such as ataxia, alcohol dependence, and epilepsy as well as hypertension. The negative KCa2 modulators are very effective agents for atrial fibrillation. The prediction is that further unraveling of the molecular details of gating pharmacology will allow for the design of even more potent and subtype selective KCa modulators entering into drug development for these indications.

Nucleoside diphosphate kinase B-activated intermediate conductance potassium channels are critical for neointima formation in mouse carotid arteries

OBJECTIVE

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) proliferation is a hallmark of atherosclerosis and vascular restenosis. The intermediate conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (SK4) channel is required for pathological VSMC proliferation. In T lymphocytes, nucleoside diphosphate kinase B (NDPKB) has been implicated in SK4 channel activation. We thus investigated the role of NDPKB in the regulation of SK4 currents (ISK4) in proliferating VSMC and neointima formation.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Function and expression of SK4 channels in VSMC from injured mouse carotid arteries were assessed by patch-clamping and real-time polymerase chain reaction. ISK4 was detectable in VSMC from injured but not from uninjured arteries correlating with the occurrence of the proliferative phenotype. Direct application of NDPKB to the membrane of inside-out patches increased ISK4, whereas NDPKB did not alter currents in VSMC obtained from injured vessels of SK4-deficient mice. The NDPKB-induced increase in ISK4 was prevented by protein histidine phosphatase 1, but not an inactive protein histidine phosphatase 1 mutant indicating that ISK4 is regulated via histidine phosphorylation in proliferating VSMC; moreover, genetic NDPKB ablation reduced ISK4 by 50% suggesting a constitutive activation of ISK4 in proliferating VSMC. In line, neointima formation after wire injury of the carotid artery was substantially reduced in mice deficient in SK4 channels or NDPKB.

CONCLUSIONS

NDPKB to SK4 signaling is required for neointima formation. Constitutive activation of SK4 by NDPKB in proliferating VSMC suggests that targeting this interaction via, for example, activation of protein histidine phosphatase 1 may provide clinically meaningful effects in vasculoproliferative diseases such as atherosclerosis and post angioplasty restenosis.

Homeostasis or channelopathy? Acquired cell type-specific ion channel changes in temporal lobe epilepsy and their antiepileptic potential

Neurons continuously adapt the expression and functionality of their ion channels. For example, exposed to chronic excitotoxicity, neurons homeostatically downscale their intrinsic excitability. In contrast, the “acquired channelopathy” hypothesis suggests that proepileptic channel characteristics develop during epilepsy. We review cell type-specific channel alterations under different epileptic conditions and discuss the potential of channels that undergo homeostatic adaptations, as targets for antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Most of the relevant studies have been performed on temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), a widespread AED-refractory, focal epilepsy. The TLE patients, who undergo epilepsy surgery, frequently display hippocampal sclerosis (HS), which is associated with degeneration of cornu ammonis subfield 1 pyramidal cells (CA1 PCs). Although the resected human tissue offers insights, controlled data largely stem from animal models simulating different aspects of TLE and other epilepsies. Most of the cell type-specific information is available for CA1 PCs and dentate gyrus granule cells (DG GCs). Between these two cell types, a dichotomy can be observed: while DG GCs acquire properties decreasing the intrinsic excitability (in TLE models and patients with HS), CA1 PCs develop channel characteristics increasing intrinsic excitability (in TLE models without HS only). However, thorough examination of data on these and other cell types reveals the coexistence of protective and permissive intrinsic plasticity within neurons. These mechanisms appear differentially regulated, depending on the cell type and seizure condition. Interestingly, the same channel molecules that are upregulated in DG GCs during HS-related TLE, appear as promising targets for future AEDs and gene therapies. Hence, GCs provide an example of homeostatic ion channel adaptation which can serve as a primer when designing novel anti-epileptic strategies.

High expression of KCa3.1 in patients with clear cell renal carcinoma predicts high metastatic risk and poor survival

Background

Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels have been implicated in cancer cell growth, metastasis, and tumor angiogenesis. Here we hypothesized that high mRNA and protein expression of the intermediate-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channel, KCa3.1, is a molecular marker of clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) and metastatic potential and survival.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We analyzed channel expression by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and patch-clamp in ccRCC and benign oncocytoma specimens, in primary ccRCC and oncocytoma cell lines, as well as in two ccRCC cell lines (Caki-1 and Caki-2). CcRCC specimens contained 12-fold higher mRNA levels of KCa3.1 than oncocytoma specimens. The large-conductance channel, KCa1.1, was 3-fold more highly expressed in ccRCC than in oncocytoma. KCa3.1 mRNA expression in ccRCC was 2-fold higher than in the healthy cortex of the same kidney. Disease specific survival trended towards reduction in the subgroup of high-KCa3.1-expressing tumors (p<0.08 vs. low-KCa3.1-expressing tumors). Progression-free survival (time to metastasis/recurrence) was reduced significantly in the subgroup of high-KCa3.1-expressing tumors (p<0.02, vs. low-KCa3.1-expressing tumors). Immunohistochemistry revealed high protein expression of KCa3.1 in tumor vessels of ccRCC and oncocytoma and in a subset of ccRCC cells. Oncocytoma cells were devoid of KCa3.1 protein. In a primary ccRCC cell line and Caki-1/2-ccRCC cells, we found KCa3.1-protein as well as TRAM-34-sensitive KCa3.1-currents in a subset of cells. Furthermore, Caki-1/2-ccRCC cells displayed functional Paxilline-sensitive KCa1.1 currents. Neither KCa3.1 nor KCa1.1 were found in a primary oncocytoma cell line. Yet KCa-blockers, like TRAM-34 (KCa3.1) and Paxilline (KCa1.1), had no appreciable effects on Caki-1 proliferation in-vitro.

Conclusions/Significance

Our study demonstrated expression of KCa3.1 in ccRCC but not in benign oncocytoma. Moreover, high KCa3.1-mRNA expression levels were indicative of low disease specific survival of ccRCC patients, short progression-free survival, and a high metastatic potential. Therefore, KCa3.1 is of prognostic value in ccRCC.

Three valuable peptides from bee and wasp venoms for therapeutic and biotechnological use: melittin, apamin and mastoparan

While knowledge of the composition and mode of action of bee and wasp venoms dates back 50 years, the therapeutic value of these toxins remains relatively unexploded. The properties of these venoms are now being studied with the aim to design and develop new therapeutic drugs. Far from evaluating the extensive number of monographs, journals and books related to bee and wasp venoms and the therapeutic effect of these toxins in numerous diseases, the following review focuses on the three most characterized peptides, namely melittin, apamin, and mastoparan. Here, we update information related to these compounds from the perspective of applied science and discuss their potential therapeutic and biotechnological applications in biomedicine.

Placing ion channels into a signaling network of T cells: from maturing thymocytes to healthy T lymphocytes or leukemic T lymphoblasts

T leukemogenesis is a multistep process, where the genetic errors during T cell maturation cause the healthy progenitor to convert into the leukemic precursor that lost its ability to differentiate but possesses high potential for proliferation, self-renewal, and migration. A new misdirecting "leukemogenic" signaling network appears, composed by three types of participants which are encoded by (1) genes implicated in determined stages of T cell development but deregulated by translocations or mutations, (2) genes which normally do not participate in T cell development but are upregulated, and (3) nondifferentially expressed genes which become highly interconnected with genes expressed differentially. It appears that each of three groups may contain genes coding ion channels. In T cells, ion channels are implicated in regulation of cell cycle progression, differentiation, activation, migration, and cell death. In the present review we are going to reveal a relationship between different genetic defects, which drive the T cell neoplasias, with calcium signaling and ion channels. We suggest that changes in regulation of various ion channels in different types of the T leukemias may provide the intracellular ion microenvironment favorable to maintain self-renewal capacity, arrest differentiation, induce proliferation, and enhance motility.

Update on the implication of potassium channels in autism: K(+) channelautism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are characterized by impaired ability to properly implement environmental stimuli that are essential to achieve a state of social and cultural exchange. Indeed, the main features of ASD are impairments of interpersonal relationships, verbal and non-verbal communication and restricted and repetitive behaviors. These aspects are often accompanied by several comorbidities such as motor delay, praxis impairment, gait abnormalities, insomnia, and above all epilepsy. Genetic analyses of autistic individuals uncovered deleterious mutations in several K⁺ channel types strengthening the notion that their intrinsic dysfunction may play a central etiologic role in ASD. However, indirect implication of K⁺ channels in ASD has been also reported. For instance, loss of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) results in K⁺ channels deregulation, network dysfunction and ASD-like cognitive and behavioral symptoms. This review provides an update on direct and indirect implications of K⁺ channels in ASDs. Owing to a mounting body of evidence associating a channelopathy pathogenesis to autism and showing that nearly 500 ion channel proteins are encoded by the human genome, we propose to classify ASDs - whose susceptibility is significantly enhanced by ion channels defects, either in a monogenic or multigenic condition - in a new category named “channelAutismSpectrumDisorder” (channelASD; cASD) and introduce a new taxonomy (e.g., K_vx.y-channelASD and likewise Na_vx.y-channelASD, Ca_vx.y-channelASD; etc.). This review also highlights some degree of clinical and genetic overlap between K⁺ channelASDs and K⁺ channelepsies, whereby such correlation suggests that a subcategory characterized by a channelASD-channelepsy phenotype may be distinguished. Ultimately, this overview aims to further understand the different clinical subgroups and help parse out the distinct biological basis of autism that are essential to establish patient-tailored treatments.

The family of K2P channels: salient structural and functional properties

Potassium channels participate in many biological functions, from ion homeostasis to generation and modulation of the electrical membrane potential. They are involved in a large variety of diseases. In the human genome, 15 genes code for K(+) channels with two pore domains (K2P ). These channels form dimers of pore-forming subunits that produce background conductances finely regulated by a range of natural and chemical effectors, including signalling lipids, temperature, pressure, pH, antidepressants and volatile anaesthetics. Since the cloning of TWIK1, the prototypical member of this family, a lot of work has been carried out on their structure and biology. These studies are still in progress, but data gathered so far show that K2P channels are central players in many processes, including ion homeostasis, hormone secretion, cell development and excitability. A growing number of studies underline their implication in physiopathological mechanisms, such as vascular and pulmonary hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, nociception, neuroprotection and depression. This review gives a synthetic view of the most noticeable features of these channels.

A novel pan-negative-gating modulator of KCa2/3 channels, fluoro-di-benzoate, RA-2, inhibits endothelium-derived hyperpolarization-type relaxation in coronary artery and produces bradycardia in vivo

Small/intermediate conductance KCa channels (KCa2/3) are Ca(2+)/calmodulin regulated K(+) channels that produce membrane hyperpolarization and shape neurologic, epithelial, cardiovascular, and immunologic functions. Moreover, they emerged as therapeutic targets to treat cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation, and some cancers. Here, we aimed to generate a new pharmacophore for negative-gating modulation of KCa2/3 channels. We synthesized a series of mono- and dibenzoates and identified three dibenzoates [1,3-phenylenebis(methylene) bis(3-fluoro-4-hydroxybenzoate) (RA-2), 1,2-phenylenebis(methylene) bis(3-fluoro-4-hydroxybenzoate), and 1,4-phenylenebis(methylene) bis(3-fluoro-4-hydroxybenzoate)] with inhibitory efficacy as determined by patch clamp. Among them, RA-2 was the most drug-like and inhibited human KCa3.1 with an IC50 of 17 nM and all three human KCa2 subtypes with similar potencies. RA-2 at 100 nM right-shifted the KCa3.1 concentration-response curve for Ca(2+) activation. The positive-gating modulator naphtho[1,2-d]thiazol-2-ylamine (SKA-31) reversed channel inhibition at nanomolar RA-2 concentrations. RA-2 had no considerable blocking effects on distantly related large-conductance KCa1.1, Kv1.2/1.3, Kv7.4, hERG, or inwardly rectifying K(+) channels. In isometric myography on porcine coronary arteries, RA-2 inhibited bradykinin-induced endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH)-type relaxation in U46619-precontracted rings. Blood pressure telemetry in mice showed that intraperitoneal application of RA-2 (≤100 mg/kg) did not increase blood pressure or cause gross behavioral deficits. However, RA-2 decreased heart rate by ≈145 beats per minute, which was not seen in KCa3.1(-/-) mice. In conclusion, we identified the KCa2/3-negative-gating modulator, RA-2, as a new pharmacophore with nanomolar potency. RA-2 may be of use to generate structurally new types of negative-gating modulators that could help to define the physiologic and pathomechanistic roles of KCa2/3 in the vasculature, central nervous system, and during inflammation in vivo.

Modulation of K(Ca)3.1 channels by eicosanoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and molecular determinants

BACKGROUND

Cytochrome P450- and ω-hydrolase products (epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), hydroxyeicosatetraeonic acid (20-HETE)), natural omega-3 fatty acids (ω3), and pentacyclic triterpenes have been proposed to contribute to a wide range of vaso-protective and anti-fibrotic/anti-cancer signaling pathways including the modulation of membrane ion channels. Here we studied the modulation of intermediate-conductance Ca(2+)/calmodulin-regulated K(+) channels (K(Ca)3.1) by EETs, 20-HETE, ω3, and pentacyclic triterpenes and the structural requirements of these fatty acids to exert channel blockade.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We studied modulation of cloned human hK(Ca)3.1 and the mutant hK(Ca)3.1(V275A) in HEK-293 cells, of rK(Ca)3.1 in aortic endothelial cells, and of mK(Ca)3.1 in 3T3-fibroblasts by inside-out and whole-cell patch-clamp experiments, respectively. In inside-out patches, Ca(2+)-activated hK(Ca)3.1 were inhibited by the ω3, DHA and α-LA, and the ω6, AA, in the lower µmolar range and with similar potencies. 5,6-EET, 8,9-EET, 5,6-DiHETE, and saturated arachidic acid, had no appreciable effects. In contrast, 14,15-EET, its stable derivative, 14,15-EEZE, and 20-HETE produced channel inhibition. 11,12-EET displayed less inhibitory activity. The K(Ca)3.1(V275A) mutant channel was insensitive to any of the blocking EETs. Non-blocking 5,6-EET antagonized the inhibition caused by AA and augmented cloned hK(Ca)3.1 and rK(Ca)3.1 whole-cell currents. Pentacyclic triterpenes did not modulate K(Ca)3.1 currents.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Inhibition of K(Ca)3.1 by EETs (14,15-EET), 20-HETE, and ω3 critically depended on the presence of electron double bonds and hydrophobicity within the 10 carbons preceding the carboxyl-head of the molecules. From the physiological perspective, metabolism of AA to non-blocking 5,6,- and 8,9-EET may cause AA-de-blockade and contribute to cellular signal transduction processes influenced by these fatty acids.

Calcium-activated potassium channels in ischemia reperfusion: a brief update

Ischemia and reperfusion (IR) injury constitutes one of the major causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The discovery of new therapies to block/mediate the effects of IR is therefore an important goal in the biomedical sciences. Dysfunction associated with IR involves modification of calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa) through different mechanisms, which are still under study. Respectively, the KCa family, major contributors to plasma membrane calcium influx in cells and essential players in the regulation of the vascular tone are interesting candidates. This family is divided into two groups including the large conductance (BKCa) and the small/intermediate conductance (SKCa/IKCa) K(+) channels. In the heart and brain, these channels have been described to offer protection against IR injury. BKCa and SKCa channels deserve special attention since new data demonstrate that these channels are also expressed in mitochondria. More studies are however needed to fully determine their potential use as therapeutic targets.

The opportunities and challenges of large-scale molecular approaches to songbird neurobiology

High-throughput methods for analyzing genome structure and function are having a large impact in songbird neurobiology. Methods include genome sequencing and annotation, comparative genomics, DNA microarrays and transcriptomics, and the development of a brain atlas of gene expression. Key emerging findings include the identification of complex transcriptional programs active during singing, the robust brain expression of non-coding RNAs, evidence of profound variations in gene expression across brain regions, and the identification of molecular specializations within song production and learning circuits. Current challenges include the statistical analysis of large datasets, effective genome curations, the efficient localization of gene expression changes to specific neuronal circuits and cells, and the dissection of behavioral and environmental factors that influence brain gene expression. The field requires efficient methods for comparisons with organisms like chicken, which offer important anatomical, functional and behavioral contrasts. As sequencing costs plummet, opportunities emerge for comparative approaches that may help reveal evolutionary transitions contributing to vocal learning, social behavior and other properties that make songbirds such compelling research subjects.

Calcium-activated potassium current modulates ventricular repolarization in chronic heart failure

The role of I_KCa in cardiac repolarization remains controversial and varies across species. The relevance of the current as a therapeutic target is therefore undefined. We examined the cellular electrophysiologic effects of I_KCa blockade in controls, chronic heart failure (HF) and HF with sustained atrial fibrillation. We used perforated patch action potential recordings to maintain intrinsic calcium cycling. The I_KCa blocker (apamin 100 nM) was used to examine the role of the current in atrial and ventricular myocytes. A canine tachypacing induced model of HF (1 and 4 months, n = 5 per group) was used, and compared to a group of 4 month HF with 6 weeks of superimposed atrial fibrillation (n = 7). A group of age-matched canine controls were used (n = 8). Human atrial and ventricular myocytes were isolated from explanted end-stage failing hearts which were obtained from transplant recipients, and studied in parallel. Atrial myocyte action potentials were unchanged by I_KCa blockade in all of the groups studied. I_KCa blockade did not affect ventricular myocyte repolarization in controls. HF caused prolongation of ventricular myocyte action potential repolarization. I_KCa blockade caused further prolongation of ventricular repolarization in HF and also caused repolarization instability and early afterdepolarizations. SK2 and SK3 expression in the atria and SK3 in the ventricle were increased in canine heart failure. We conclude that during HF, I_KCa blockade in ventricular myocytes results in cellular arrhythmias. Furthermore, our data suggest an important role for I_KCa in the maintenance of ventricular repolarization stability during chronic heart failure. Our findings suggest that novel antiarrhythmic therapies should have safety and efficacy evaluated in both atria and ventricles.

A synaptic mechanism for network synchrony

Within neural networks, synchronization of activity is dependent upon the synaptic connectivity of embedded microcircuits and the intrinsic membrane properties of their constituent neurons. Synaptic integration, dendritic Ca²⁺ signaling, and non-linear interactions are crucial cellular attributes that dictate single neuron computation, but their roles promoting synchrony and the generation of network oscillations are not well understood, especially within the context of a defined behavior. In this regard, the lamprey spinal central pattern generator (CPG) stands out as a well-characterized, conserved vertebrate model of a neural network (Smith et al., 2013a), which produces synchronized oscillations in which neural elements from the systems to cellular level that control rhythmic locomotion have been determined. We review the current evidence for the synaptic basis of oscillation generation with a particular emphasis on the linkage between synaptic communication and its cellular coupling to membrane processes that control oscillatory behavior of neurons within the locomotor network. We seek to relate dendritic function found in many vertebrate systems to the accessible lamprey central nervous system in which the relationship between neural network activity and behavior is well understood. This enables us to address how Ca²⁺ signaling in spinal neuron dendrites orchestrate oscillations that drive network behavior.

Oxygen sensitivity, potassium channels, and regulation of placental vascular tone

The human fetoplacental vasculature is a low-resistance circulation with deoxygenated arterial relative to venous blood. The placenta lacks neuronal innervation suggesting that local physical (e.g., oxygenation; flow rate), paracrine (e.g., endothelial cell nitric oxide), and circulating (e.g., angiotensin II) factors will contribute to blood flow regulation in small fetoplacental vessels. Oxygenation (specifically hypoxia) has received particular attention. At the macro-level, hypoxic challenge increases vascular resistance, but the data's physiological relevance remains questionable. K(+) channels are a diverse family of proteins known to play important roles in the normal physiological functions of endothelial and smooth muscle cells of a variety of vascular beds. K(+) channels are categorized by their predicted transmembrane structure or gating properties. A small number of perfused placental cotyledon and isolated blood vessels studies have assessed K(+) channel activity. Specific activator/inhibitor application suggests functional voltage-gated channels, whereas toxin inhibitor studies have documented KCa channel activity. Pharmacological KATP channel activation significantly dilates preconstricted placental arteries and veins. There is a paucity of cell subtype-specific expression studies of placental K(+) channels. This review focuses on the roles of K(+) channels and oxygenation in controlling reactivity of small fetoplacental blood vessels.

The activation effect of hainantoxin-I, a peptide toxin from the Chinese spider, Ornithoctonus hainana, on intermediate-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels

Intermediate-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (IK) channels are calcium/calmodulin-regulated voltage-independent K⁺ channels. Activation of IK currents is important in vessel and respiratory tissues, rendering the channels potential drug targets. A variety of small organic molecules have been synthesized and found to be potent activators of IK channels. However, the poor selectivity of these molecules limits their therapeutic value. Venom-derived peptides usually block their targets with high specificity. Therefore, we searched for novel peptide activators of IK channels by testing a series of toxins from spiders. Using electrophysiological experiments, we identified hainantoxin-I (HNTX-I) as an IK-channel activator. HNTX-I has little effect on voltage-gated Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ channels from rat dorsal root ganglion neurons and on the heterologous expression of voltage-gated rapidly activating delayed rectifier K⁺ channels (human ether-à-go-go-related gene; human ERG) in HEK293T cells. Only 35.2% ± 0.4% of the currents were activated in SK channels, and there was no effect on BK channels. We demonstrated that HNTX-I was not a phrenic nerve conduction blocker or acutely toxic. This is believed to be the first report of a peptide activator effect on IK channels. Our study suggests that the activity and selectivity of HNTX-I on IK channels make HNTX-I a promising template for designing new drugs for cardiovascular diseases.

IL-4 type 1 receptor signaling up-regulates KCNN4 expression, and increases the KCa3.1 current and its contribution to migration of alternative-activated microglia

The Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channel, KCa3.1 (KCNN4/IK1/SK4), contributes to “classical,” pro-inflammatory activation of microglia, and KCa3.1 blockers have improved the outcome in several rodent models of CNS damage. For instance, blocking KCa3.1 with TRAM-34 rescued retinal ganglion neurons after optic nerve damage in vivo and, reduced p38 MAP kinase activation, production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and neurotoxicity by microglia in vitro. In pursuing the therapeutic potential of KCa3.1 blockers, it is crucial to assess KCa3.1 contributions to other microglial functions and activation states, especially the IL-4-induced “alternative” activation state that can counteract pro-inflammatory states. We recently found that IL-4 increases microglia migration – a crucial function in the healthy and damaged CNS – and that KCa3.1 contributes to P₂Y₂ receptor-stimulated migration. Here, we discovered that KCa3.1 is greatly increased in alternative-activated rat microglia and then contributes to an enhanced migratory capacity. IL-4 up-regulated KCNN4 mRNA (by 6 h) and greatly increased the KCa3.1 current by 1 day, and this required de novo protein synthesis. The increase in current was sustained for at least 6 days. IL-4 increased microglial migration and this was reversed by blocking KCa3.1 with TRAM-34. A panel of inhibitors of signal-transduction mediators was used to analyze contributions of IL-4-related signaling pathways. Induction of KCNN4 mRNA and KCa3.1 current was mediated specifically through IL-4 binding to the type I receptor and, surprisingly, it required JAK3, Ras/MEK/ERK signaling and the transcription factor, activator protein-1, rather than JAK2, STAT6, or phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase.The same receptor subtype and pathway were required for the enhanced KCa3.1-dependent migration. In providing the first direct signaling link between an IL-4 receptor, expression and roles of an ion channel, this study also highlights the potential importance of KCa3.1 in alternative-activated microglia.

New positive Ca2+-activated K+ channel gating modulators with selectivity for KCa3.1

Small-conductance (KCa2) and intermediate-conductance (KCa3.1) calcium-activated K(+) channels are voltage-independent and share a common calcium/calmodulin-mediated gating mechanism. Existing positive gating modulators like EBIO, NS309, or SKA-31 activate both KCa2 and KCa3.1 channels with similar potency or, as in the case of CyPPA and NS13001, selectively activate KCa2.2 and KCa2.3 channels. We performed a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study with the aim of optimizing the benzothiazole pharmacophore of SKA-31 toward KCa3.1 selectivity. We identified SKA-111 (5-methylnaphtho[1,2-d]thiazol-2-amine), which displays 123-fold selectivity for KCa3.1 (EC50 111 ± 27 nM) over KCa2.3 (EC50 13.7 ± 6.9 μM), and SKA-121 (5-methylnaphtho[2,1-d]oxazol-2-amine), which displays 41-fold selectivity for KCa3.1 (EC50 109 nM ± 14 nM) over KCa2.3 (EC50 4.4 ± 1.6 μM). Both compounds are 200- to 400-fold selective over representative KV (KV1.3, KV2.1, KV3.1, and KV11.1), NaV (NaV1.2, NaV1.4, NaV1.5, and NaV1.7), as well as CaV1.2 channels. SKA-121 is a typical positive-gating modulator and shifts the calcium-concentration response curve of KCa3.1 to the left. In blood pressure telemetry experiments, SKA-121 (100 mg/kg i.p.) significantly lowered mean arterial blood pressure in normotensive and hypertensive wild-type but not in KCa3.1(-/-) mice. SKA-111, which was found in pharmacokinetic experiments to have a much longer half-life and to be much more brain penetrant than SKA-121, not only lowered blood pressure but also drastically reduced heart rate, presumably through cardiac and neuronal KCa2 activation when dosed at 100 mg/kg. In conclusion, with SKA-121, we generated a KCa3.1-specific positive gating modulator suitable for further exploring the therapeutical potential of KCa3.1 activation.

Voltage-gated K(+) channels contributing to temporal precision at the inner hair cell-auditory afferent nerve fiber synapses in the mammalian cochlea

To perform auditory tasks such as sound localization in the space, auditory neurons in the brain must distinguish sub-millisecond temporal differences in signals from two ears. Such high temporal resolution is possible when each neuron in the ascending auditory pathway fires brief action potential at very accurate timing. Various pre- and postsynaptic machineries ensuring such high temporal precision of auditory synaptic transmission have been identified. Of particular, in this review, the role of K(+) channels in shortening the duration of synaptic potentials will be discussed. First, the contribution of K(+) channels to AP firing of general auditory neurons will be discussed. Then, the focus will be moved to the inner hair cell (IHC)-auditory afferent nerve fiber (ANF) synapses, the first synapses of ascending auditory pathway. Molecular and immunohistological techniques have revealed various K(+) channels in the cell bodies and their processes of ANFs. Since the development of patch-clamp recordings from the ANF dendrites in 2002, it became possible to monitor the IHC-ANF synaptic transmission in greater detail. As revealed in brain auditory synapses, several different K(+) channels appear to participate in reducing the duration of synaptic potentials at the IHC-ANF synapses. In addition, K(+) channels at the ANF dendrites might act as potential targets of efferent feedback from the brain. The hypothesis is that, upon loud sound exposure, efferent neurotransmitters released onto the ANF dendrites activate certain K(+) channels and prevent excitotoxicity of ANFs. Therefore, K(+) channels of the ANF dendrites might provide potential sites of pharmacological actions to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

Cardiac potassium channel subtypes: new roles in repolarization and arrhythmia

About 10 distinct potassium channels in the heart are involved in shaping the action potential. Some of the K+ channels are primarily responsible for early repolarization, whereas others drive late repolarization and still others are open throughout the cardiac cycle. Three main K+ channels drive the late repolarization of the ventricle with some redundancy, and in atria this repolarization reserve is supplemented by the fairly atrial-specific KV1.5, Kir3, KCa, and K2P channels. The role of the latter two subtypes in atria is currently being clarified, and several findings indicate that they could constitute targets for new pharmacological treatment of atrial fibrillation. The interplay between the different K+ channel subtypes in both atria and ventricle is dynamic, and a significant up- and downregulation occurs in disease states such as atrial fibrillation or heart failure. The underlying posttranscriptional and posttranslational remodeling of the individual K+ channels changes their activity and significance relative to each other, and they must be viewed together to understand their role in keeping a stable heart rhythm, also under menacing conditions like attacks of reentry arrhythmia.

Pulmonary hypertension in wild type mice and animals with genetic deficit in KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 channels

Objective

In vascular biology, endothelial K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channels contribute to arterial blood pressure regulation by producing membrane hyperpolarization and smooth muscle relaxation. The role of K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channels in the pulmonary circulation is not fully established. Using mice with genetically encoded deficit of K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channels, this study investigated the effect of loss of the channels in hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension.

Approach and Result

Male wild type and K_Ca3.1^−/−/K_Ca2.3^T/T(+DOX) mice were exposed to chronic hypoxia for four weeks to induce pulmonary hypertension. The degree of pulmonary hypertension was evaluated by right ventricular pressure and assessment of right ventricular hypertrophy. Segments of pulmonary arteries were mounted in a wire myograph for functional studies and morphometric studies were performed on lung sections. Chronic hypoxia induced pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy, increased lung weight, and increased hematocrit levels in either genotype. The K_Ca3.1^−/−/K_Ca2.3^T/T(+DOX) mice developed structural alterations in the heart with increased right ventricular wall thickness as well as in pulmonary vessels with increased lumen size in partially- and fully-muscularized vessels and decreased wall area, not seen in wild type mice. Exposure to chronic hypoxia up-regulated the gene expression of the K_Ca2.3 channel by twofold in wild type mice and increased by 2.5-fold the relaxation evoked by the K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channel activator NS309, whereas the acetylcholine-induced relaxation - sensitive to the combination of K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channel blockers, apamin and charybdotoxin - was reduced by 2.5-fold in chronic hypoxic mice of either genotype.

Conclusion

Despite the deficits of the K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 channels failed to change hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension, the up-regulation of K_Ca2.3-gene expression and increased NS309-induced relaxation in wild-type mice point to a novel mechanism to counteract pulmonary hypertension and to a potential therapeutic utility of K_Ca2.3/K_Ca3.1 activators for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.

Molecular dynamics simulations of scorpion toxin recognition by the Ca(2+)-activated potassium channel KCa3.1

The Ca(2+)-activated channel of intermediate-conductance (KCa3.1) is a target for antisickling and immunosuppressant agents. Many small peptides isolated from animal venoms inhibit KCa3.1 with nanomolar affinities and are promising drug scaffolds. Although the inhibitory effect of peptide toxins on KCa3.1 has been examined extensively, the structural basis of toxin-channel recognition has not been understood in detail. Here, the binding modes of two selected scorpion toxins, charybdotoxin (ChTx) and OSK1, to human KCa3.1 are examined in atomic detail using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Employing a homology model of KCa3.1, we first determine conduction properties of the channel using Brownian dynamics and ascertain that the simulated results are in accord with experiment. The model structures of ChTx-KCa3.1 and OSK1-KCa3.1 complexes are then constructed using MD simulations biased with distance restraints. The ChTx-KCa3.1 complex predicted from biased MD is consistent with the crystal structure of ChTx bound to a voltage-gated K(+) channel. The dissociation constants (Kd) for the binding of both ChTx and OSK1 to KCa3.1 determined experimentally are reproduced within fivefold using potential of mean force calculations. Making use of the knowledge we gained by studying the ChTx-KCa3.1 complex, we attempt to enhance the binding affinity of the toxin by carrying out a theoretical mutagenesis. A mutant toxin, in which the positions of two amino acid residues are interchanged, exhibits a 35-fold lower Kd value for KCa3.1 than that of the wild-type. This study provides insight into the key molecular determinants for the high-affinity binding of peptide toxins to KCa3.1, and demonstrates the power of computational methods in the design of novel toxins.

Neuronal expression of the intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channel KCa3.1 in the mammalian central nervous system

The expression pattern and functional roles for calcium-activated potassium channels of the KCa2.x family and KCa1.1 have been extensively examined in central neurons. Recent work indicates that intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa3.1) are also expressed in central neurons of the cerebellum and spinal cord. The current study used immunocytochemistry and GFP linked to KCNN4 promoter activity in a transgenic mouse to determine the expression pattern of KCa3.1 channels in rat or mouse neocortex, hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebellum. KCa3.1 immunolabel and GFP expression were closely matched and detected in both excitatory and inhibitory cells of all regions examined. KCa3.1 immunolabel was localized primarily to the somatic region of excitatory cells in cortical structures but at the soma and over longer segments of dendrites of cells in deep cerebellar nuclei. More extensive labeling was apparent for inhibitory cells at the somatic and dendritic level with no detectable label associated with axon tracts or regions of intense synaptic innervation. The data indicate that KCa3.1 channels are expressed in the CNS with a differential pattern of distribution between cells, suggesting important functional roles for these calcium-activated potassium channels in regulating the excitability of central neurons.

KCa and Ca(2+) channels: the complex thought

Potassium channels belong to the largest and the most diverse super-families of ion channels. Among them, Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (KCa) comprise many members. Based on their single channel conductance they are divided into three subfamilies: big conductance (BKCa), intermediate conductance (IKCa) and small conductance (SKCa; SK1, SK2 and SK3). Ca(2+) channels are divided into two main families, voltage gated/voltage dependent Ca(2+) channels and non-voltage gated/voltage independent Ca(2+) channels. Based on their electrophysiological and pharmacological properties and on the tissue where there are expressed, voltage gated Ca(2+) channels (Cav) are divided into 5 families: T-type, L-type, N-type, P/Q-type and R-type Ca(2+). Non-voltage gated Ca(2+) channels comprise the TRP (TRPC, TRPV, TRPM, TRPA, TRPP, TRPML and TRPN) and Orai (Orai1 to Orai3) families and their partners STIM (STIM1 to STIM2). A depolarization is needed to activate voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels while non-voltage gated Ca(2+) channels are activated by Ca(2+) depletion of the endoplasmic reticulum stores (SOCs) or by receptors (ROCs). These two Ca(2+) channel families also control constitutive Ca(2+) entries. For reducing the energy consumption and for the fine regulation of Ca(2+), KCa and Ca(2+) channels appear associated as complexes in excitable and non-excitable cells. Interestingly, there is now evidence that KCa-Ca(2+) channel complexes are also found in cancer cells and contribute to cancer-associated functions such as cell proliferation, cell migration and the capacity to develop metastases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health and disease. Guest Editors: Geert Bultynck, Jacques Haiech, Claus W. Heizmann, Joachim Krebs, and Marc Moreau.

Intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels modulate human placental trophoblast syncytialization

Regulation of human placental syncytiotrophoblast renewal by cytotrophoblast migration, aggregation/fusion and differentiation is essential for successful pregnancy. In several tissues, these events are regulated by intermediate conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels (IK_Ca), in part through their ability to regulate cell volume. We used cytotrophoblasts in primary culture to test the hypotheses that IK_Ca participate in the formation of multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast and in syncytiotrophoblast volume homeostasis. Cytotrophoblasts were isolated from normal term placentas and cultured for 66 h. This preparation recreates syncytiotrophoblast formation in vivo, as mononucleate cells (15 h) fuse into multinucleate syncytia (66 h) concomitant with elevated secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Cells were treated with the IK_Ca inhibitor TRAM-34 (10 µM) or activator DCEBIO (100 µM). Culture medium was collected to measure hCG secretion and cells fixed for immunofluorescence with anti-IK_Ca and anti-desmoplakin antibodies to assess IK_Ca expression and multinucleation respectively. K⁺ channel activity was assessed by measuring ⁸⁶Rb efflux at 66 h. IK_Ca immunostaining was evident in nucleus, cytoplasm and surface of mono- and multinucleate cells. DCEBIO increased ⁸⁶Rb efflux 8.3-fold above control and this was inhibited by TRAM-34 (85%; p<0.0001). Cytotrophoblast multinucleation increased 12-fold (p<0.05) and hCG secretion 20-fold (p<0.05), between 15 and 66 h. Compared to controls, DCEBIO reduced multinucleation by 42% (p<0.05) and hCG secretion by 80% (p<0.05). TRAM-34 alone did not affect cytotrophoblast multinucleation or hCG secretion. Hyposmotic solution increased ⁸⁶Rb efflux 3.8-fold (p<0.0001). This effect was dependent on extracellular Ca²⁺, inhibited by TRAM-34 and 100 nM charybdotoxin (85% (p<0.0001) and 43% respectively) but unaffected by 100 nM apamin. In conclusion, IK_Ca are expressed in cytotrophoblasts and their activation inhibits the formation of multinucleated cells in vitro. IK_Ca are stimulated by syncytiotrophoblast swelling implicating a role in syncytiotrophoblast volume homeostasis. Inappropriate activation of IK_Ca in pathophysiological conditions could compromise syncytiotrophoblast turnover and volume homeostasis in pregnancy disease.

T-type channels buddy up

The electrical output of neurons relies critically on voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels. The traditional view of ion channels is that they operate independently of each other in the plasma membrane in a manner that could be predicted according to biophysical characteristics of the isolated current. However, there is increasing evidence that channels interact with each other not just functionally but also physically. This is exemplified in the case of Cav3 T-type calcium channels, where new work indicates the ability to form signaling complexes with different types of calcium-gated and even voltage-gated potassium channels. The formation of a Cav3-K complex provides the calcium source required to activate KCa1.1 or KCa3.1 channels and, furthermore, to bestow a calcium-dependent regulation of Kv4 channels via associated KChIP proteins. Here, we review these interactions and discuss their significance in the context of neuronal firing properties.

K(+) channels: function-structural overview

Potassium channels are particularly important in determining the shape and duration of the action potential, controlling the membrane potential, modulating hormone secretion, epithelial function and, in the case of those K(+) channels activated by Ca(2+), damping excitatory signals. The multiplicity of roles played by K(+) channels is only possible to their mammoth diversity that includes at present 70 K(+) channels encoding genes in mammals. Today, thanks to the use of cloning, mutagenesis, and the more recent structural studies using x-ray crystallography, we are in a unique position to understand the origins of the enormous diversity of this superfamily of ion channels, the roles they play in different cell types, and the relations that exist between structure and function. With the exception of two-pore K(+) channels that are dimers, voltage-dependent K(+) channels are tetrameric assemblies and share an extremely well conserved pore region, in which the ion-selectivity filter resides. In the present overview, we discuss in the function, localization, and the relations between function and structure of the five different subfamilies of K(+) channels: (a) inward rectifiers, Kir; (b) four transmembrane segments-2 pores, K2P; (c) voltage-gated, Kv; (d) the Slo family; and (e) Ca(2+)-activated SK family, SKCa.