Regulation of ligand-gated ion channels by protein phosphorylation

GABAB receptor-mediated presynaptic potentiation of ATP ionotropic receptors in rat midbrain synaptosomes

Nucleotides can activate ionotropic P2X receptors that induce calcium-responses in rat midbrain synaptosomes. In this report, we show that ATP elicits Ca(2+) responses producing a monophasic dose-response curve with an EC(50) value of 24.24+/-1.42 micro M. In the presence of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the ATP dose-response curve becomes biphasic with EC(50) values of 3.69+/-0.44 nM and 59.65+/-8.32 micro M. Moreover, the maximal calcium response induced by ATP is 52.1% higher than the control. This effect is mimicked or blocked by the specific GABA(B) receptor agonist and antagonist, baclofen and saclofen, respectively. Presynaptic GABA(B) receptors, identified by immunocytochemistry are present in 62% of the total synaptosomal population. Adenylate cyclase and protein kinase A cascades are involved in the potentiatory effects mediated by baclofen and their activation or inhibition modifies calcium signalling and synaptosomal cAMP levels. The potentiatory action of baclofen was confirmed by microfluorimetry performed on single synaptic terminals. In its presence, 86% of the terminals responding to 100 micro M ATP, are also able to respond to nanomolar concentrations (100 nM) of this nucleotide. This potentiatory effect is reduced to 32% in the presence of pertussis toxin. Our data suggest that the activity of P2X receptors is modulated by GABA(B) receptors in midbrain synaptosomes.

Silence analysis of AMPA receptor mutated at the CaM-kinase II phosphorylation site

Direct phosphorylation of the GluR1 subunit of postsynaptic AMPA receptors by Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM-KII) is believed to be one of the major contributors to the enhanced strength of glutamatergic synapses in CA1 area of hippocampus during long-term potentiation. The molecular mechanism of AMPA receptor regulation by CaM-KII is examined here by a novel approach, silence analysis, which is independent of previously used variance analysis. I show that three fundamental channel properties-single-channel conductance, channel open probability, and the number of functional channels-can be measured in an alternative way, by analyzing the probability of channels to be simultaneously closed (silent). Validity of the approach was confirmed by modeling, and silence analysis was applied then to the GluR1 AMPA receptor mutated at S831, the site phosphorylated by CaM-KII during long-term potentiation. Silence analysis indicates that a negative charge at S831 is a critical determinant for the enhanced channel function as a charge carrier. Silence and variance analyses, when applied to the same sets of data, were in agreement on the receptor regulation upon mutations. These results provide independent evidences for the mechanism of AMPA receptor regulation by CaM-KII and further strengthens the idea how calcium-dependent phosphorylation of AMPA receptors can contribute to the plasticity at central glutamatergic synapses.

ZIP3, a new splice variant of the PKC-zeta-interacting protein family, binds to GABAC receptors, PKC-zeta, and Kv beta 2

The correct targeting of modifying enzymes to ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors represents an important biological mechanism to control neuronal excitability. The recent cloning of protein kinase C-zeta interacting proteins (ZIP1, ZIP2) identified new scaffolds linking the atypical protein kinase PKC-zeta to target proteins. GABA(C) receptors are composed of three rho subunits (rho 1-3) that are highly expressed in the retina, where they are clustered at synaptic terminals of bipolar cells. A yeast two-hybrid screen for the GABA(C) receptor rho 3 subunit identified ZIP3, a new C-terminal splice variant of the ZIP protein family. ZIP3 was ubiquitously expressed in non-neuronal and neuronal tissues, including the retina. The rho 3-binding region of ZIP3 contained a ZZ-zinc finger domain, which interacted with 10 amino acids conserved in rho 1-3 but not in GABA(A) receptors. Consistently, only rho 1-3 subunits bound to ZIP3. ZIP3 formed dimers with ZIP1-3 and interacted with PKC-zeta and the shaker-type potassium channel subunit Kv beta 2. Different domains of ZIP3 interacted with PKC-zeta and the rho 3 subunit, and simultaneous assembly of ZIP3, PKC-zeta and rho 3 was demonstrated in vitro. Subcellular co-expression of ZIP3 binding partners in the retina supported the proposed protein interactions. Our results indicate the formation of a ternary postsynaptic complex containing PKC-zeta, ZIP3, and GABA(C) receptors.

Synaptic activity induces signalling to CREB without increasing global levels of cAMP in hippocampal neurons

Nuclear calcium signals associated with electrical activation of neurons can control the activity of the transcription factor cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB). Yet, cAMP is thought to be the key messenger that links synaptic activity to the regulation of CREB-mediated transcription. It is generally assumed that synaptic activity increases the intracellular levels of cAMP; this causes activation of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) that regulates CREB-mediated transcription either directly or through controlling nuclear signalling of the MAP kinases/extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) pathway. Here we show that, in hippocampal neurons, synaptic activity failed to increase global levels of cAMP that would be required for the cAMP-PKA system to induce nuclear events. Even near-continuous bursting of action potentials, giving rise to large nuclear calcium signals and robust CREB-dependent transcription, left global intracellular levels of cAMP unchanged. These results suggest that the cAMP-PKA system does not function as the transducer of synaptic signals to the nucleus. They indicate that the known inhibitory effects of blockers of PKA on gene expression and long-lasting plasticity triggered by calcium entry reflect a gating function of basal activity of PKA that renders neurons permissive for nuclear calcium-regulated, CREB/CBP-dependent gene expression.

Molecular aspects of glutamate dysregulation: implications for schizophrenia and its treatment

The glutamate system is involved in many aspects of neuronal synaptic strength and function during development and throughout life. Synapse formation in early brain development, synapse maintenance, and synaptic plasticity are all influenced by the glutamate system. The number of neurons and the number of their connections are determined by the activity of the glutamate system and its receptors. Malfunctions of the glutamate system affect neuroplasticity and can cause neuronal toxicity. In schizophrenia, many glutamate-regulated processes seem to be perturbed. Abnormal neuronal development, abnormal synaptic plasticity, and neurodegeneration have been proposed to be causal or contributing factors in schizophrenia. Interestingly, it seems that the glutamate system is dysregulated and that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors operate at reduced activity. Here we discuss how the molecular aspects of glutamate malfunction can explain some of the neuropathology observed in schizophrenia, and how the available treatment intervenes through the glutamate system.

Striatal glutamatergic mechanisms and extrapyramidal movement disorders

The nonphysiologic stimulation of striatal dopaminergic receptors, as a result of disease- or drug-related denervation or intermittent excitation, triggers adaptive responses in the basal ganglia which contribute to the appearance of parkinsonian symptoms and later to the dyskinesias and other alterations in motor response associated with dopaminergic therapy. Current evidence suggests that these altered responses involve activation of signal transduction cascades in striatal medium spiny neurons linking dopaminergic to coexpressed ionotropic glutamatergic receptors of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and Alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole proprionic acid (AMPA) classes. These intraneuronal signaling pathways appear capable of modifying the phosphorylation state of NMDA and AMPA receptor subunits; resultant sensitization enhances cortical glutamatergic input which in turn modifies striatal output in ways that compromise motor behavior. The regulation of these spiny neuron glutamate receptors can also be affected by the activation state of coexpressed nondopaminergic receptors as well as by changes associated with Huntington's disease. These observations lend new insight into molecular mechanisms contributing to the integration of synaptic inputs to spiny neurons. They also suggest novel approaches to the pharmacotherapy of extrapyramidal motor dysfunction.

Mapping the protein phosphatase-2B anchoring site on AKAP79. Binding and inhibition of phosphatase activity are mediated by residues 315-360

Compartmentalization of protein kinases and phosphatases with substrates is a means to increase the efficacy of signal transduction events. The A-kinase anchoring protein, AKAP79, is a multivalent anchoring protein that maintains the cAMP-dependent protein kinase, protein kinase C, and protein phosphatase-2B (PP2B/calcineurin) at the postsynaptic membrane of excitatory synapses where it is recruited into complexes with N-methyl-d-aspartic acid or alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA)-subtype glutamate receptors. We have used cellular targeting of AKAP79 truncation and deletion mutants as an assay to map the PP2B-binding site on AKAP79. We demonstrate that residues 315-360 are necessary and sufficient for AKAP79-PP2B anchoring in cells. Multiple determinants contained within this region bind directly to the A subunit of PP2B and inhibit phosphatase activity. Peptides spanning the 315-360 region of AKAP79 can antagonize PP2B anchoring in vitro and targeting in transfected cells. Electrophysiological experiments further emphasize this point by demonstrating that a peptide encompassing residues 330-357 of AKAP79 attenuates PP2B-dependent down-regulation of GluR1 receptor currents when perfused into HEK293 cells. We propose that the structural features of this AKAP79-PP2B-binding domain may share similarities with other proteins that serve to coordinate PP2B localization and activity.

Impairment of long-term potentiation and spatial memory in leptin receptor-deficient rodents

Leptin is well known to be involved in the control of feeding, reproduction and neuroendocrine functions through its action on the hypothalamus. However, leptin receptors are found in brain regions other than the hypothalamus (including the hippocampus and cerebral cortex) suggesting extrahypothalamic functions. We investigated hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), and the spatial-memory function in two leptin receptor-deficient rodents (Zucker rats and db/db mice). In brain slices, the CA1 hippocampal region of both strains showed impairments of LTP and LTD; leptin (10(-12) M) did not improve these impairments in either strain. These strains also showed lower basal levels of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II activity in the CA1 region than the respective controls, and the levels did not respond to tetanic stimulation. These strains also showed impaired spatial memory in the Morris water-maze test (i.e. longer swim-path lengths during training sessions and less frequent crossings of the platform's original location in the probe test. From these results we suggest that the leptin receptor-deficient animals show impaired LTP in CA1 and poor spatial memory due, at least in part, to a deficiency in leptin receptors in the hippocampus.

NMDA-receptor trafficking and targeting: implications for synaptic transmission and plasticity

Dynamic regulation of synaptic efficacy is thought to play a crucial role in formation of neuronal connections and in experience-dependent modification of neural circuitry. The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which synaptic changes are triggered and expressed are the focus of intense interest. This articles reviews recent evidence that NMDA receptors undergo dynamically regulated targeting and trafficking, and that the physical transport of NMDA receptors in and out of the synaptic membrane contributes to several forms of long-lasting synaptic plasticity. The identification of targeting and internalization sequences in NMDA-receptor subunits has begun the unraveling of some mechanisms that underlie activity-dependent redistribution of NMDA receptors. Given that NMDA receptors are widely expressed throughout the CNS, regulation of NMDA-receptor trafficking provides a potentially important way to modulate efficacy of synaptic transmission.

Regulation of AMPA receptors during synaptic plasticity

Ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors mediate rapid synaptic transmission in the CNS and PNS. Owing to this central role in trans-synaptic signal transduction, modulation of these receptors could play a crucial role in the expression of synaptic plasticity in the brain. AMPA receptors mediate the majority of rapid excitatory synaptic transmission in the CNS. Recent studies have indicated that the activity and synaptic distribution of these receptors is dynamically regulated and could be crucial for the short- and long-term modification of synaptic efficacy. Here we review recent data on the molecular mechanisms that underlie the modulation of AMPA receptors and the role of AMPA-receptor regulation in mediating synaptic plasticity.

Activation of mGluR5 modulates GABA(A) receptor function in retinal amacrine cells

Amacrine cells in the vertebrate retina receive glutamatergic input from bipolar cells and make synapses onto bipolar cells, ganglion cells, and other amacrine cells. Recent studies indicate that amacrine cells express metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and that signaling within the inner plexiform layer (IPL) of the retina might be modulated by mGluR activity. This study tests the hypothesis that activation of mGluR5 modulates GABA(A) receptor function in retinal amacrine cells. Whole cell voltage-clamp recordings were combined with pharmacology to establish the identity of the ionotropic GABA receptors expressed in primary cultures of chick amacrine cells and to determine how mGluR5 activity affected the behavior of those receptors. Application of GABA (20 microM) produced currents that reversed at -58.2 +/- 0.9 mV, near the predicted Cl(-) reversal potential of -59 mV. The GABA(A) receptor antagonist, bicuculline (50 microM), completely blocked the GABA-gated currents. cis-4-Aminocrotonic acid (CACA; 100 microM), a GABA(C) receptor agonist, produced small currents that were not blocked by the GABA(C) antagonist, (1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine-4-yl) methylphosphinic acid (TPMPA; 20 microM), but were completely blocked by bicuculline. These results indicate that cultured amacrine cells express GABA(A) receptors exclusively. Activating mGluR5 with (RS)-2-chloro-5-hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG; 300 microM) enhanced GABA-gated currents by 10.0 +/- 1.5%. Buffering internal Ca(2+) with BAPTA (10 mM) blocked the CHPG-dependent enhancement. Activation of PKC with the cell-permeable PKC activators (-)-7-octylindolactam V, phorbol 12-myristate 13 acetate (PMA), or 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG) also enhanced GABA-gated currents in a dose-dependent manner. Preactivation of PKC occluded the mGluR5-dependent enhancement, and inhibition of Ca-dependent PKC isotypes with Gö6976 (35 nM) suppressed the effects of mGluR5 activation, suggesting that mGluR5 and PKC are part of the same pathway. To determine if mGluR5-dependent enhancement occurred at synaptic GABA(A) receptors, postsynaptic currents were recorded in the presence of CHPG. On average, the mean amplitudes of the quantal events were increased by about 18% when mGluR5 was activated. These results indicate that activation of mGluR5 enhances GABA-gated current in cultured amacrine cells in a manner that is both Ca(2+)- and PKC-dependent. These results support the possibility that glutamate released from bipolar cells can modulate the function of GABAergic amacrine cells and alter signaling in the inner plexiform layer.

P2X7 receptors activate protein kinase D and p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) downstream of protein kinase C

Protein kinase D (PKD), also called protein kinase Cmu (PKCmu), is a serine/threonine kinase that has unique enzymic and structural properties distinct from members of the PKC family of proteins. In freshly isolated rat parotid acinar salivary cells, extracellular ATP rapidly increased the activity and phosphorylation of PKD. The stimulation by ATP required high concentrations, was mimicked by the P2X(7) receptor ligand BzATP [2'- and 3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)ATP], and was blocked by Mg(2+) and 4,4'-di-isothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulphonate (DIDS), suggesting that activation of PKD was mediated by P2X(7) receptors, which are ligand-gated non-selective cation channels. Phorbol ester (PMA) and the activation of muscarinic and substance P receptors also increased PKD activity. PKC inhibitors blocked ligand-dependent PKD activation and phosphorylation, determined by in vitro phosphorylation studies and by phospho-specific antibodies to two activation loop sites (Ser(744) and Ser(748)) and an autophosphorylation site (Ser(916)). ATP and BzATP also increased the tyrosine phosphorylation and activity of PKCdelta, and these stimuli also increased extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2 activity in a PKC-dependent manner. PKD activation was not promoted by pervanadate (an inhibitor of tyrosine phosphatases) and was not blocked by PP1 (an inhibitor of Src family kinases) or genistein (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor), suggesting that tyrosine kinases and phosphatases did not play a major role in PKD activation. P2X(7) receptor-mediated signalling events were not dependent on Ca(2+) entry. These studies indicate that PKC is involved in cellular signalling initiated by P2X(7) receptors as well as by G-protein-coupled receptors, and demonstrate that PKD and ERK1/2 are activated in similar PKC-dependent signalling pathways initiated by these diverse receptor types.

Pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms in Hebbian activity-dependent synapse modification

We have used a three compartment tissue culture system that involved two separate populations of cholinergic neurons in the side compartments that converged on a common target population of myotubes in the center compartment. Activation of the axons from one population of neurons produced selective down-regulation of the synaptic inputs from the other neuronal population (when the two inputs innervated the same myotubes). The decrease in heterosynaptic inputs was mediated by protein kinase C (PKC). An activity-dependent action of protein kinase A (PKA) was associated with the stimulated input and this served to selectively stabilize this input. These changes associated with PKA and PKC activation were mediated by alterations in the number of acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. These results suggest that neuromuscular electrical activity produces postsynaptic activation of both PKA and PKC, with the latter producing generalized synapse weakening and the former a selective synapse stabilization. Treatment of the neuronal cell body and axon to increase PKC activity by putting phorbal ester (PMA) in the side chamber did not affect synaptic transmission (with or without stimulation). By contrast, PKA blockade in the side compartment did produce an activity-dependent decrease in synaptic efficacy, which was due to a decrease in quantal release of neurotransmitter. Thus, when the synapse is activated, it appears that presynaptic PKA action is necessary to maintain transmitter output.

Differential effects of hypoxia-ischemia on subunit expression and tyrosine phosphorylation of the NMDA receptor in 7- and 21-day-old rats

The effect of cerebral hypoxia-ischemia (HI) on levels and tyrosine phosphorylation of the NMDA receptor was examined in 7- (P7) and 21 (P21)-day-old rats. Unilateral HI was administered by ligation of the right common carotid artery and exposure to an atmosphere of 8% O2/92% N2 for 2 (P7) or 1.5 (P21) h. This duration of HI produces significant infarction in nearly all of the survivors with damage being largely restricted to the cortex, striatum, and hippocampus of the hemisphere ipsilateral to the carotid artery ligation. NR2A levels in the right hemisphere of P7 pups were markedly reduced after 24 h of recovery, while NR1 and NR2B remained unchanged. In contrast, NR2B, but not NR2A, was reduced after HI at P21. At both ages, HI resulted in a transient increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of a number of forebrain proteins that peaked between 1 and 6 h of recovery. At both P7 and P21, tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2B was enhanced 1 h after HI and had returned to basal levels by 24 h. HI induced an increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2A in 21 day, but not in 7-day-old animals. The differential effects of HI on the NMDA receptor at different post-natal ages may contribute to changing sensitivity to hypoxia-ischemia.

Water permeability of aquaporin-4 is decreased by protein kinase C and dopamine

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) plays an important role in the basolateral movement of water in the collecting duct. Here we show that this water channel can be dynamically regulated. Water permeability (P(f)) was measured in individual LLC-PK1 cells that were transiently transfected with AQP4. To identify which cells were transfected, AQP4 was tagged at the NH2 terminus with green fluorescent protein. Transfected cells showed a strong fluorescent signal in basolateral membrane and a low-to-negligible signal in the cytosol and apical membrane. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) with phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) significantly decreased P(f) of cells expressing AQP4 but had no effect on neighboring untransfected cells. No redistribution of AQP4 in response to PDBu was detected. Dopamine also decreased the P(f) in transfected cells. The effect was abolished by the PKC inhibitor Ro 31-8220. Reduction of AQP4 water permeability by PDBu and dopamine was abolished by point mutation of Ser(180), a consensus site for PKC phosphorylation. We conclude that PKC and dopamine decrease AQP4 water permeability via phosphorylation at Ser180 and that the effect is likely mediated by gating of the channel.

Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase regulates GABA-activated Cl- current in cockroach dorsal unpaired median neurons

We studied gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated currents in short-term cultured dorsal unpaired median (DUM) neurons of cockroach Periplaneta americana using the whole cell patch-clamp technique in symmetrical chloride solutions. All DUM neurons voltage-clamped at -50 mV displayed inward currents (I(GABA)) when 10(-4) M of GABA was applied by pneumatic pressure-ejection pulses. The semi-logarithmic curve of I(GABA) amplitude versus the ejection time yielded a Hill coefficient of 4.0. I(GABA) was chloride (Cl-) because the reversal potential given by the current-voltage (I-V) curve varied according to the value predicted by the Nernst equation for Cl- dependence. In addition, I(GABA) was almost completely blocked by bath application of the chloride channel blockers picrotoxin (PTX) or 3,3-bis(trifluoromethyl)bicyclo-[2,2,1]heptane-2,2-diacarbonitrile (BIDN). The I-V curve for I(GABA) displayed a unexpected biphasic aspect and was best fitted by two linear regressions giving two slope conductances of 35.6 +/- 2.1 and 80.9 +/- 4.1 nS for potentials ranging from 0 to -30 and -30 to -70 mV, respectively. At -50 mV, the current amplitude was decreased by cadmium chloride (CdCl2, 10(-3) M) and calcium-free solution. The semi-logarithmic curve for CdCl2-resistant I(GABA) gave a Hill coefficient of 2.4. Hyperpolarizing voltage step from -50 to -80 mV was known to increase calcium influx through calcium-resting channels. According to this protocol, a significant increase of I(GABA) amplitude was observed. However, this effect was never obtained when the same protocol was applied on cell body pretreated with CdCl2. When the calmodulin blocker N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphtalene-sulfonamide or the calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase blocker 1-[N,O-bis(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-N-methyl-L-tyrosyl]-4-phenylpiperazine (KN-62) was added in the pipette solution, I(GABA) amplitude was decreased. Pressure ejection application of the cis-4-aminocrotonic acid (CACA) on DUM neuron cell body held at -50 mV, evoked a Cl- inward current which was insensitive to CdCl2. The Hill plot yielded a Hill coefficient of 2.3, and the I-V curve was always linear in the negative potential range with a slope conductance of 32.4 +/- 1.1 nS. These results, similar to those obtained with GABA in the presence of CdCl2 and KN-62, indicated that CACA activated one subtype of GABA receptor. Our study demonstrated that at least two distinct subtypes of Cl--dependent GABA receptors were expressed in DUM neurons, one of which is regulated by an intracellular Ca2+-dependent mechanism via a calcium-dependent protein kinase. The consequences of the modulatory action of Ca2+ in GABA receptors function and their sensitivity to insecticide are discussed.

Modulation of Drosophila slowpoke calcium-dependent potassium channel activity by bound protein kinase a catalytic subunit

Drosophila Slowpoke (dSlo) calcium-dependent potassium channels bind directly to the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKAc). We demonstrate here that coexpression of PKAc with dSlo in mammalian cells results in a dramatic decrease of dSlo channel activity. This modulation requires catalytically active PKAc but is not mediated by phosphorylation of S942, the only PKA consensus site in the dSlo C-terminal domain. dSlo binds to free PKAc but not to the PKA holoenzyme that includes regulatory subunits and is inactive. Activators of endogenous PKA that stimulate dSlo phosphorylation, but do not produce detectable PKAc binding to dSlo, do not modulate channel function. Furthermore, the catalytically inactive PKAc mutant does bind to dSlo but does not modulate channel activity. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that both binding of active PKAc to dSlo and phosphorylation of dSlo or some other protein are necessary for channel modulation.

The spinal phospholipase-cyclooxygenase-prostanoid cascade in nociceptive processing

Intrathecal phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), but not COX-1, inhibitors attenuate facilitated pain states generated by peripheral injury/inflammation and by direct activation of spinal glutamate and substance P receptors. These results are consistent with the constitutive expression of PLA2 and COX-2 in spinal cord, the spinal release of prostaglandins by persistent afferent input, and the effects of prostaglandins on spinal excitability. Whereas the acute actions of COX-2 inhibitors are clearly mediated by constitutively expressed spinal COX-2, studies of spinal COX-2 expression indicate that it is upregulated by neural input and circulating cytokines. Given the intrathecal potency of COX-2 inhibitors, the comparable efficacy of intrathecal versus systemic COX-2 inhibitors in hyperalgesic states not associated with inflammation, and the onset of antihyperalgesic activity prior to COX-2 upregulation, it is argued that a principal antihyperalgesic mechanism of COX-2 inhibitors lies with modulation of constitutive COX-2 present at the spinal level.

Novel putative nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit genes, Dalpha5, Dalpha6 and Dalpha7, in Drosophila melanogaster identify a new and highly conserved target of adenosine deaminase acting on RNA-mediated A-to-I pre-mRNA editing

Genome analysis of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster reveals three new ligand-gated ion channel subunits with the characteristic YXCC motif found only in alpha-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits. The subunits are designated Dalpha5, Dalpha6, and Dalpha7. Cloning of the Dalpha5 embryonic cDNAs reveals an atypically large N terminus, part of which is without identifiable sequence motifs and is specified by two polymorphic alleles. Embryonic clones from Dalpha6 contain multiple variant transcripts arising from alternative splicing as well as A-to-I pre-mRNA editing. Alternative splicing in Dalpha6 involves exons encoding nAChR functional domains. The Dalpha6 transcript is a target of the Drosophila adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (dADAR). This is the first case for any organism where a nAChR gene is the target of mRNA editing. Seven adenosines could be modified in the extracellular ligand-binding region of Dalpha6, four of which are also edited in the Dalpha6 ortholog in the tobacco budworm Heliothis virescens. The conservation of an editing site between the insect orders Diptera and Lepidoptera makes nAChR editing the most evolutionarily conserved invertebrate RNA editing site so far described. These findings add to our understanding of nAChR subunit diversity, which is increased and regulated by mechanisms acting at the genomic and mRNA levels.

Calcineurin acts via the C-terminus of NR2A to modulate desensitization of NMDA receptors

Phosphatase IIb (calcineurin, CaN) can reduce N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) synaptic responses by enhancing glycine-independent desensitization. We examined the action of CaN on desensitization in recombinant NMDA receptors comprised of NMDA receptor 1 (NR1) and NR2A subunits. The C-terminus of NR2A, but not NR1, was critical for modulation of desensitization by CaN. Alanine-scanning mutagenesis indicated that serines 900 and 929 in NR2A altered desensitization, as did inhibition of tyrosine phosphatases. Our data suggest that dephosphorylation-dependent regulation of the C-terminus of NR2A increases desensitization of NMDA receptors, providing an additional mechanism for modulation of synaptic signals.

Nicotine preconditioning antagonizes activity-dependent caspase proteolysis of a glutamate receptor

Neuronal excitation is required for normal brain function including processes of learning and memory, yet if this process becomes dysregulated there is reduced neurotransmission and possibly death through excitotoxicity. Nicotine, through interaction with neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, possesses the ability to modulate neurotransmitter systems through numerous mechanisms that define this critical balance. We examined the modulatory role of nicotine in primary mixed cortical neuronal-glial cultures on activity-dependent caspase cleavage of a glutamate receptor, GluR1. We find that GluR1, but not GluR2 or GluR3, is a substrate for agonist (alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazole-4-propionic acid)-initiated rapid proteolytic cleavage at aspartic acid 865 through the activation of caspase 8-like activity that is independent of membrane fusion and is not coincident with apoptosis. Dose-dependent nicotine preconditioning for 24 h antagonizes agonist-initiated caspase cleavage of GluR1 through a mechanism that is coincident with desensitization of both nAChRalpha4beta2 and nAChRalpha7 receptors and the delayed activation of a caspase 8-like activity. The modulation of GluR1 agonist-initiated caspase-mediated cleavage by nicotine preconditioning offers a novel insight into how this agent can impart its numerous effects on the nervous system.

Interaction between P2Y and NMDA receptors in layer V pyramidal neurons of the rat prefrontal cortex

In the first part of this study, monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in layer V of the rat prefrontal cortex were evoked by electrical stimulation of layer I. Recordings by intracellular sharp microelectrodes showed that EPSPs were concentration-dependently facilitated by the P2 receptor antagonistic ATP analogue 2-methylthio ATP (2-MeSATP), while ATP itself depressed the synaptic potentials. The inhibitory effect of ATP turned into facilitation in the presence of the adenosine A(1) receptor antagonist DPCPX. The 2-MeSATP-induced potentiation of EPSP amplitudes were prevented by the P2 receptor antagonists PPADS and Suramin. The EPSP was almost abolished by coapplication of the NMDA receptor antagonist AP-5 and the AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist CNQX. After blockade of the NMDA receptor-mediated part of the EPSP by AP-5, the stimulatory effect of 2-MeSATP disappeared. When NMDA or AMPA were pressure-applied onto pyramidal cells, only the NMDA-induced depolarization was potentiated by 2-MeSATP. In the second part of the study, NMDA-induced currents were measured by whole-cell patch-clamp pipettes. ATP, 2-MeSATP, UDP and UTP potentiated the response to NMDA, while ADP-beta-S was inactive. PPADS antagonized the effect of ATP. Synaptic isolation of pyramidal neurons by a Ca(2+)-free medium or tetrodotoxin did not alter the effect of ATP which, however, was markedly depressed when GTP in the micropipette was replaced by GDP-beta-S. These observations suggest that in layer V pyramidal neurons of the prefrontal cortex postsynaptically localized P2Y receptors interact with NMDA receptor-channels.

Role of the PLC-related, catalytically inactive protein p130 in GABA(A) receptor function

The protein p130 was isolated from rat brain as an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-binding protein with a domain organization similar to that of phospholipase C-delta1 but lacking PLC activity. We show that p130 plays an important role in signaling by the type A receptor for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Yeast twohybrid screening identified GABARAP (GABA(A) receptor-associated protein), which is proposed to contribute to the sorting, targeting or clustering of GABA(A) receptors, as a protein that interacts with p130. Furthermore, p130 competitively inhibited the binding of the gamma2 subunit of the GABA(A) receptor to GABARAP in vitro. Electrophysiological analysis revealed that the modulation of GABA-induced Cl- current by Zn2+ or diazepam, both of which act at GABA(A) receptors containing gamma subunits, is impaired in hippocampal neurons of p130 knockout mice. Moreover, behavioral analysis revealed that motor coordination was impaired and the intraperitoneal injection of diazepam induced markedly reduced sedative and antianxiety effects in the mutant mice. These results indicate that p130 is essential for the function of GABA(A) receptors, especially in response to the agents acting on a gamma2 subunit.

Protein kinase C modulation of ethanol inhibition of glycine-activated current in dissociated neurons of rat ventral tegmental area

The brain is particularly sensitive to alcohol during its growth spurt period. To better understand the mechanism(s) involved, we studied the effects of ethanol on neurons freshly dissociated from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in neonatal rats. Ethanol enhanced (35%) or depressed (45%) glycine-induced responses in VTA neurons (Ye et al., 2001a, 2001b). In this report, we investigated the role of protein kinase C (PKC) and protein kinase A (PKA) in ethanol-induced inhibition of glycine-activated current, using whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Ethanol inhibited glycine-activated current when it was coapplied with the agonist. This inhibition was enhanced when neurons were pretreated with ethanol before the subsequent coapplication of ethanol and glycine. Ethanol's inhibition of glycine-activated currents increased with the length of ethanol pretreatment time (ranging from 1 to 30 s), and reached the maximum at 30 s. However, this enhanced inhibition was not seen in the absence of internal ATP. In addition, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA, 100 nM), a PKC activator, markedly inhibited glycine-activated current. Blockade of PKC by chelerythrine or by PKC inhibitor peptide significantly attenuated ethanol-induced inhibition. Although partial increase of PKC activity by 1 nM PMA enhanced ethanol inhibition, pretreatment of ethanol did not increase ethanol inhibition after the neurons were treated with 100 nM PMA. These data suggest that ethanol and PKC share the same pathway to suppress glycine receptors. H-89 (1 microM), a selective PKA inhibitor, did not alter glycine-activated current or ethanol inhibition. Our observations suggest that activation of PKC (but not PKA) contributes to ethanol-induced inhibition of glycine receptors.

The role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the mechanisms of anesthesia

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are members of the ligand-gated ion channel superfamily, that includes also gamma-amino-butiric-acid(A), glycine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine(3) receptors. Functional nicotinic acetylcholine receptors result from the association of five subunits each contributing to the pore lining. The major neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are heterologous pentamers of alpha4beta2 subunits (brain), or alpha3beta4 subunits (autonomic ganglia). Another class of neuronal receptors that are found both in the central and peripheral nervous system is the homomeric alpha7 receptor. The muscle receptor subtypes comprise of alphabetadeltagamma (embryonal) or alphabetadeltaepsilon (adult) subunits. Although nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are not directly involved in the hypnotic component of anesthesia, it is possible that modulation of central nicotinic transmission by volatile agents contributes to analgesia. The main effect of anesthetic agents on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors is inhibitory. Volatile anesthetics and ketamine are the most potent inhibitors both at alpha4beta2 and alpha3beta4 receptors with clinically relevant IC(50) values. Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are more sensitive to anesthetics than their muscle counterparts, with the exception of the alpha7 receptor. Several intravenous anesthetics such as barbiturates, etomidate, and propofol exert also an inhibitory effect on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, but only at concentrations higher than those necessary for anesthesia. Usual clinical concentrations of curare cause competitive inhibition of muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptors while higher concentrations may induce open channel blockade. Neuronal nAChRs like alpha4beta2 and alpha3beta4 are inhibited by atracurium, a curare derivative, but at low concentrations the alpha4beta2 receptor is activated. Inhibition of sympathetic transmission by clinically relevant concentrations of some anesthetic agents is probably one of the factors involved in arterial hypotension during anesthesia.

Muscarinic receptor M(2) in cat visual cortex: laminar distribution, relationship to gamma-aminobutyric acidergic neurons, and effect of cingulate lesions

Acetylcholine can have diverse effects on visual cortical neurons as a result of variations in postsynaptic receptor subtypes as well as the types of neurons and subcellular sites targeted. This study examines the cellular basis for cholinergic activation in visual cortex via M(2) type muscarinic receptors in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic and non-GABAergic cells, using immunocytochemical techniques. At light microscopic resolution, M(2) immunoreactivity (-ir) was seen in all layers except area and sublayer specific bands in layer 4. Subcellularly, M(2)-ir occurred in both dendrites and terminals that form symmetric and asymmetric junctions. Layers 5 and 6 were characterized by axosomatic contacts that displayed labeling in the presynaptic component, and layer 6 displayed perikaryal postsynaptic staining, suggesting that corticofugal output neurons may be modulated particularly strongly via M(2). Infragranular layers differed from the supragranular layers in that more labeled profiles were axonal than dendritic, indicating a dominant presynaptic effect by acetylcholine via M(2) there. Unilateral cingulate cortex cuts caused reduction of cholinergic and noradrenergic fibers in the lesioned hemisphere at light microscopic resolution; at electron microscopic resolution, the synapse density and axonal M(2) labeling were reduced, suggesting that M(2) was localized presynaptically on extrathalamic modulatory inputs. Dual labeling with GABA in visual cortex layer 5 showed that half of M(2)-labeled dendrites originated from GABAergic neurons. Given that only one-fifth of all cortical dendritic profiles are GABAergic, this prevalence of dual labeling indicates an enrichment of M(2) within GABAergic dendrites and, thus, implicates abundant postsynaptic action on GABAergic neurons via M(2). In contrast, only one-tenth of M(2)-labeled terminals originated from GABAergic neurons, suggesting that the presynaptic action of acetylcholine via M(2) receptors would be more selective for non-GABAergic terminals.

Age-related differences in NMDA responses in cultured rat hippocampal neurons

The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is expressed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus and is important in learning and memory. NMDARs are influenced by aging and implicated in neurodegenerative disorders. We investigated age-related differences in NMDAR ionic currents and intracellular calcium in embryonic (E18), middle-age (9-10 month) and old (26 month) rat hippocampal neurons cultured in serum-free medium for 7-12 days. Responses to 200 microM NMDA with 50 microM glycine were measured using whole cell voltage clamp and fura-2 fluorescence. Embryonic neurons exhibited significantly larger and faster NMDA responses than adults. Old rats had 1.5 fold greater normalized NMDA peak current compared to middle-age rats, while intracellular calcium rose 1.3 fold higher. Differences in regression slopes generated from the integral of NMDA current versus normalized NMDA current indicate age-related differences are not exclusively due to changes in receptor density but likely influenced by changes in receptor function. Corresponding age-related measures of intracellular calcium by fura-2 fluorescence in response to NMDA showed a strong correlation with peak current (r(2)=0.996). Our data support the hypothesis that NMDAR responsiveness is altered during aging with an enhanced NMDA peak current in both old and embryonic neurons compared to middle-age neurons.

Antipsychotic drugs and neuroplasticity: insights into the treatment and neurobiology of schizophrenia

This paper reviews the evidence that antipsychotic drugs induce neuroplasticity. We outline how the synaptic changes induced by the antipsychotic drug haloperidol may help our understanding of the mechanism of action of antipsychotic drugs in general, and how they may help to elucidate the neurobiology of schizophrenia. Studies have provided compelling evidence that haloperidol induces anatomical and molecular changes in the striatum. Anatomical changes have been documented at the level of regional brain volume, synapse morphology, and synapse number. At the molecular level, haloperidol has been shown to cause phosphorylation of proteins and to induce gene expression. The molecular responses to conventional antipsychotic drugs are predominantly observed in the striatum and nucleus accumbens, whereas atypical antipsychotic drugs have a subtler and more widespread impact. We conclude that the ability of antipsychotic drugs to induce anatomical and molecular changes in the brain may be relevant for their antipsychotic properties. The delayed therapeutic action of antipsychotic drugs, together with their promotion of neuroplasticity suggests that modification of synaptic connections by antipsychotic drugs is important for their mode of action. The concept of schizophrenia as a disorder of synaptic organization will benefit from a better understanding of the synaptic changes induced by antipsychotic drugs.

Ethanol inhibition of glycine-activated responses in neurons of ventral tegmental area of neonatal rats

The brain is particularly sensitive to alcohol during the period of its rapid growth. To better understand the mechanism(s) involved, we studied ethanol effects on glycine-activated responses of ventral tegmental area (VTA) neurons isolated from the newborn rat, using whole cell and gramicidin perforated patch-clamp techniques. Previously we reported that 0.1-40 mM ethanol enhances glycine-induced responses of 35% of VTA neurons. We now direct our attention to the inhibitory effects of ethanol observed in 45% (312 of 694) of neonatal VTA neurons. Under current-clamp conditions, 1 mM ethanol had no effect on the membrane potential of these cells, but it decreased glycine-induced membrane depolarization and the frequency of spontaneous action potentials. Under voltage-clamp conditions, 0.1-10 mM ethanol did not elicit a current but depressed the glycine-induced currents. The ethanol-induced inhibition of glycine current was independent of membrane potential (between -60 and +60 mV). Likewise, ethanol did not alter the reversal potential of the glycine-activated currents. Ethanol-mediated inhibition of glycine current depended on the glycine concentration. While ethanol strongly depressed currents activated by 30 microM glycine, it had no appreciable effect on maximal currents activated by 1 mM glycine. In the presence of ethanol (1 mM), the EC(50) for glycine increased from 32 +/- 5 to 60 +/- 3 microM. Thus ethanol may decrease the agonist affinity of glycine receptors. A kinetic analysis indicated that ethanol shortens the time constant of glycine current deactivation but has no effect on activation. In conclusion, by altering VTA neuronal function, ethanol-induced changes in glycine receptors may contribute to neurobehavioral manifestations of the fetal alcohol syndrome.

An NMDA receptor signaling complex with protein phosphatase 2A

Regulation of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity and NMDA receptor (NMDAR) phosphorylation state contribute to the modulation of synaptic plasticity, yet these two mechanisms have not been functionally linked. The NMDAR subunit NR3A is equipped with a unique carboxyl domain that is different from other NMDAR subunits. We hypothesized that the NR3A C-terminal intracellular domain might serve as synaptic anchor for the phosphatase in the developing CNS. A cDNA library was screened by the yeast two-hybrid method using the NR3A carboxyl domain as the bait. The catalytic subunit of the serine-threonine PP2A was found to be associated with the NR3A carboxyl domain. Immunoprecipitation studies indicated that the NR3A subunit formed a stable complex with PP2A in the rat brain in vivo. Association of PP2A with NMDARs led to an increase in the phosphatase activity of PP2A and the dephosphorylation of serine 897 of the NMDAR subunit NR1. Stimulation of NMDARs led to the dissociation of PP2A from the complex and the reduction of PP2A activity. A peptide corresponding to the PP2A-NR3A binding domain functioned as a negative regulator of PP2A activity. These data suggest that NMDARs are allosteric modulators of PP2A, which in turn controls their phosphorylation state. The data delineate a mechanistic model of the dynamic regulation of a PP2A-NMDAR signaling complex, mediated by the interaction of NR3A and PP2A, and suggest a novel NMDAR-mediated signaling mechanism in addition to the traditional ionotropic functions of NMDARs.

Identification of protein kinase C phosphorylation sites within the AMPA receptor GluR2 subunit

Phosphorylation of AMPA receptor subunits is believed to regulate channel function and synaptic plasticity. Extensive biochemical and molecular studies have identified sites of PKA, PKC and CamKII phosphorylation in the C-termini of the GluR1 and 4 subunits. Recent studies have shown GluR1 phosphorylation to be bidirectionally altered during long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) in the hippocampus. The majority of AMPA receptors in the brain are believed to contain the GluR2 subunit that also contains potential sites for protein phosphorylation. Here we characterize PKC phosphorylation on the GluR2 subunit using biochemical and molecular techniques. Site-directed mutagenesis confirmed that this phosphorylation occurs on Serine 863 and Serine 880 of the GluR2 subunit C-terminus. Site identification allowed the generation of phosphorylation site-specific antibodies to facilitate the examination of GluR2 modification in primary neuronal culture. These studies confirmed that GluR2 is modified in response to the activation of PKC and suggests that phosphorylation of the ubiquitous GluR2 subunit may be important in the regulation of excitatory synaptic transmission.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit knockout mice: physiological and behavioral phenotypes and possible clinical implications

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the muscle, autonomic ganglia, and brain are targets for pharmacologically administered nicotine. Several of the subunits that combine to form neuronal nicotinic receptors have been deleted by knockout or mutated by knockin in mice using homologous recombination. We will review the biochemical, pharmacological, anatomical, physiological, and behavioral phenotypes of mice with genetically altered neuronal nAChR subunits. Clinically relevant mutations in nAChR genes will also be discussed. In addition, some of the signal transduction pathways activated through nAChRs will be described in order to delineate the longer-term changes that might result from persistent activation or inactivation of nAChRs. Genetically manipulated mice have greatly increased our understanding of the subunit composition and physiological properties of nAChRs in vivo. In addition, these mice have provided a model system to determine the molecular basis for many of the pharmacological actions of nicotine on neurotransmitter release and behavior. Genetic manipulations in mice have also elucidated the role of nAChR subunits in various disease states, and suggest several avenues for drug development.

PKA, PKC, and AKAP localization in and around the neuromuscular junction

BACKGROUND

One mechanism that directs the action of the second messengers, cAMP and diacylglycerol, is the compartmentalization of protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC). A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) can recruit both enzymes to specific subcellular locations via interactions with the various isoforms of each family of kinases. We found previously that a new class of AKAPs, dual-specific AKAPs, denoted D-AKAP1 and D-AKAP2, bind to RIalpha in addition to the RII subunits.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy were used here to determine that D-AKAP1 colocalizes with RIalpha at the postsynaptic membrane of the vertebrate neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and the adjacent muscle, but not in the presynaptic region. The labeling pattern for RIalpha and D-AKAP1 overlapped with mitochondrial staining in the muscle fibers, consistent with our previous work showing D-AKAP1 association with mitochondria in cultured cells. The immunoreactivity of D-AKAP2 was distinct from that of D-AKAP1. We also report here that even though the PKA type II subunits (RIIalpha and RIIbeta) are localized at the NMJ, their patterns are distinctive and differ from the other R and D-AKAP patterns examined. PKCbeta appeared to colocalize with the AKAP, gravin, at the postsynaptic membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

The kinases and AKAPs investigated have distinct patterns of colocalization, which suggest a complex arrangement of signaling micro-environments. Because the labeling patterns for RIalpha and D-AKAP 1 are similar in the muscle fibers and at the postsynaptic membrane, it may be that this AKAP anchors RIalpha in these regions. Likewise, gravin may be an anchor of PKCbeta at the NMJ.

NMDA receptors as targets for drug action in neuropathic pain

Hyperalgesia and allodynia following peripheral tissue or nerve injury are not only due to an increase in the sensitivity of primary afferent nociceptors at the site of injury but also depend on NMDA receptor-mediated central changes in synaptic excitability. Functional inhibition of NMDA receptors can be achieved through actions at different recognition sites such as the primary transmitter site (competitive), strychnine-insensitive glycine site (glycine(B)), polyamine site (NR2B selective) and phencyclidine site located inside the cationic channel. Unfortunately, most agents which completely block NMDA receptors cause numerous side effects such as memory impairment, psychotomimetic effects, ataxia and motor incoordination. There is now, however, considerable evidence that moderate affinity channel blockers, glycine(B) and NR2B selective antagonists show a much better profile in animal models than high affinity channel blockers and competitive NMDA receptor antagonists. These "therapeutically" safe NMDA receptor antagonists are also able to slow or prevent the development of opioid tolerance, indicating the utility of their combination with opioids in the treatment of chronic pain. The antinociceptive effects of NMDA receptor antagonists and opioids could be predicted to be synergistic and the presence of an NMDA receptor antagonist should block both the development of chronic pain states and inhibit the development of tolerance to the analgesic effects of morphine. Peripheral NMDA receptors offer a very attractive target for NMDA receptor antagonists that do not cross the blood brain barrier in inflammatory and visceral pain. Such agents might be predicted to be devoid of CNS side effects at doses producing powerful antinociception at peripheral NMDA receptors.

Increased phosphorylation of the NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor following cerebral ischemia

The effects of transient cerebral ischemia on phosphorylation of the NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor by protein kinase C (PKC) and protein kinase A (PKA) were investigated. Adult rats received 15 min of cerebral ischemia followed by various times of recovery. Phosphorylation was examined by immunoblotting hippocampal homogenates with antibodies that recognized NR1 phosphorylated on the PKC phosphorylation sites Ser890 and Ser896, the PKA phosphorylation site Ser897, or dually phosphorylated on Ser896 and Ser897. The phosphorylation of all sites examined increased following ischemia. The increase in phosphorylation by PKC was greater than by PKA. The ischemia-induced increase in phosphorylation was predominantly associated with the population of NR1 that was insoluble in 1% deoxycholate. Enhanced phosphorylation of NR1 by PKC and PKA may contribute to alterations in NMDA receptor function in the postischemic brain.

Modulation of ionotropic glutamate receptor channels

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. It acts at ligand-gated cationic channels (NMDA, AMPA and kainate receptors) and at G protein-coupled metabotropic glutamate receptors as well. The glutamatergic transmission is suggested to be involved in development, learning and memory. Its dysfunction can be detected in epilepsy, stroke, neurodegenerative disorders and drug abuse. This paper summarizes the present knowledge on the modulation of glutamate-gated ion channels in the central nervous system by phosphorylation. An inhibitory interaction between adenosine A2A receptors and NMDA receptors in the neostriatum is described as an example. mediated by the phospholipase C/inositol trisphosphate/calmodulin and calmodulin kinase II pathway.

Neuronal nicotinic receptors: from protein structure to function

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are a prototype of ligand-gated channels that mediate transmission in the central and peripheral nervous system. Structure-function studies performed at the amino acid level are now unraveling the determinant residues either for the properties of the ligand-binding domain or the ionic pore. In this work we review, in the light of the latest finding, the structure-function relationship of these receptors and their implication in neurological diseases.

Selective and biphasic effect of the membrane lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxy-2,3-nonenal on N-methyl-D-aspartate channels

Increased oxyradical production and membrane lipid peroxidation occur in neurons under physiological conditions and in neurodegenerative disorders. Lipid peroxidation can alter synaptic plasticity and may increase the vulnerability of neurons to excitotoxicity, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. We report that 4-hydroxy-2,3-nonenal (4HN), an aldehyde product of lipid peroxidation, exerts a biphasic effect on NMDA-induced current in cultured rat hippocampal neurons with current being increased during the first 2 h and decreased after 6 h. Similarly, 4HN causes an early increase and a delayed decrease in NMDA-induced elevation of intracellular Ca2+ levels. In contrast, 4HN affects neither the ion current nor the Ca2+ response to alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionate (AMPA). The initial enhancement of NMDA-induced current is associated with increased phosphorylation of the NR1 receptor subunit, whereas the delayed suppression of current is associated with cellular ATP depletion and mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Cell death induced by 4HN is attenuated by an NMDA receptor antagonist, but not by an AMPA receptor antagonist. A secreted form of amyloid precursor protein, previously shown to protect neurons against oxidative and excitotoxic insults, prevented each of the effects of 4HN including the early and late changes in NMDA current, delayed ATP depletion, and cell death. These findings show that the membrane lipid peroxidation product 4HN can modulate NMDA channel activity, suggesting a role for this aldehyde in physiological and pathophysiological responses of neurons to oxidative stress.

Neurotransmitter receptor trafficking and the regulation of synaptic strength

Modulation of the strength of synapses is thought to be one of the mechanisms that underlies learning and memory and is also likely to be important in processes of neuropathology and drug tolerance. This review focuses on the emerging role of postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptor trafficking as an essential mechanism underlying the dynamic regulation of synaptic strength.

Src-class kinases act within the agrin/MuSK pathway to regulate acetylcholine receptor phosphorylation, cytoskeletal anchoring, and clustering

Synaptogenesis at the neuromuscular junction requires agrin-induced stable localization of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at the endplate. The effects of agrin are transduced by the muscle-specific receptor tyrosine kinase (MuSK). This study provides evidence that Src-class protein tyrosine kinases mediate the effects of agrin-activated MuSK to regulate clustering and anchoring of AChRs in skeletal muscle. MuSK was complexed with both Src and Fyn in the C2 mouse muscle cell line. These associations were enhanced by agrin and by increasing protein tyrosine phosphorylation with pervanadate. Coupling between MuSK and the Src-class kinases in vivo appeared to be caused by a phosphotyrosine-SH2 domain interaction because binding of MuSK to the SH2 domains of Fyn and Src in vitro was specific, enhanced by phosphorylation, and dependent on MuSK autophosphorylation. In addition, Src and Fyn phosphorylated MuSK. AChR phosphorylation, stimulated by agrin or pervanadate, was inhibited by blocking Src-class kinases with PP1. Furthermore, agrin-induced clustering and cytoskeletal anchoring of AChRs was dependent on Src-family kinases. These data support the conclusion that Fyn and Src act downstream of MuSK to regulate the stable localization of AChRs at the neuromuscular endplate during agrin-induced synaptogenesis.

A use-dependent tyrosine dephosphorylation of NMDA receptors is independent of ion flux

Tyrosine phosphorylation can upregulate NMDA receptor activity during pathological and physiological alterations of synaptic strength. Here we describe downregulation of recombinant NR1/2A receptors by tyrosine dephosphorylation that requires agonist binding, but is independent of ion flux. The tyrosine residues involved in this new form of NMDA receptor modulation likely form a 'ring' adjacent to the last transmembrane domain. The downregulation was due to a reduction in the number of functional channels, and was blocked by co-expressing a dominant-negative mu2-subunit of the clathrin-adaptor protein AP-2. Our results provide a mechanism by which synaptic NMDA receptors can be modulated in a use-dependent manner even when the postsynaptic membrane is not sufficiently depolarized to relieve channel block by magnesium ions.

Differential modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes and synaptic transmission in chick sympathetic ganglia by PGE(2)

The diversity of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) is likely an important factor in the modulation of synaptic transmission by acetylcholine and nicotine. We have tested whether postsynaptic nAChRs are modulated in a subtype-specific manner by prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), a regulator of neuronal excitability in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, and examined the effects of PGE(2) on nicotinic transmission. Somatodendritic nAChRs in chick lumbar sympathetic ganglia include four nAChR subtypes distinguished on the basis of conductance and kinetic profile. Nanomolar PGE(2) applied to the extrapatch membrane differentially regulates opening probability (Po), frequency and the opening duration of each nAChR channel subtype in cell-attached patches. PGE(2) decreases the Po of the predominant nAChR subtype (36 pS) and significantly increases Po and open duration of the 23 pS subtype. The 23 pS subtype is gated by the alpha 7-selective agonist choline, and choline-gated currents are inhibited by alpha-bungarotoxin. To examine whether PGE(2) modulates nAChRs at synaptic sites, we studied the effects of PGE(2) on amplitude and decay of synaptic currents in visceral motoneuron-sympathetic neuron co-cultures. PGE(2) significantly decreases the amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs), consistent with the predominant inhibition by PGE(2) of all but the 23 pS subtype. The time constant of mEPSCs at PGE(2)-treated synapses is prolonged, which is also consistent with an increased contribution of the longer open duration of the 23 pS nAChR subtype with PGE(2) treatment. To examine the presynaptic effect of PGE(2), nanomolar nicotine was used. Nicotine induces facilitation of synaptic transmission by increasing mEPSC frequency, an action thought to involve presynaptic, alpha 7-containing nAChRs. In the presence of PGE(2), nicotine-induced synaptic facilitation persists. Thus the net effect of PGE(2) is to alter the profile of nAChRs contributing to synaptic transmission from larger conductance, briefer opening channels to smaller conductance, longer opening events. This subtype-specific modulation of nAChRs by PGE(2) may provide a mechanism for selective activation and suppression of synaptic pathways mediated by different nAChR subtype(s) at both pre- and postsynaptic sites.

Coordinate regulation of metabotropic glutamate receptors

Recent studies aimed at identifying the mechanisms that regulate the signaling of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) have revealed that both protein kinase and protein phosphatase activity are important in directly modulating mGluR function. The inter-relationship between phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of mGluRs seems to be an important determinant in regulating mGluR function and the subsequent neuromodulatory events elicited by activation of mGluRs.

Expression of ionotropic glutamate receptors in the retina of the rdta transgenic mouse

BACKGROUND

The expression of retinal CaMKII is up-regulated in the retina of the rdta mouse in which rod photoreceptors are genetically ablated. As ionotropic glutamate receptors are known substrates of CAMKII, this study set out to determine if the protein levels of ionotropic glutamate receptors in the rdta mouse retina are also affected.

RESULTS

The NMDA receptor subunits (NR1, NR2A/B) and the GluR1; AMPA receptor subunit (GluR1) were examined in immunolabeled western blots. The results demonstrate that the amounts of NR1 and NR2A/B receptor subunits are significantly increased in crude synaptic membrane fractions isolated from retinae of the rdta mice when compared to their normal, littermate controls. The GluR1 receptor subunit and its phosphorylation are simultaneously increased in retinae of the rdta mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that the NMDA receptors and AMPA (GluR1) receptors are altered in the retinae of rdta mice that lack rod photoreceptors. Because the rods are lost at an early stage in development, it is likely that these results are indicative of synaptic reorganization in the retina.