Transport and pharmacological properties of nine different human Na, K-ATPase isozymes

The Na-K-ATPase α₁β₁ heterodimer as a cell adhesion molecule in epithelia

The ion gradients generated by the Na-K-ATPase play a critical role in epithelia by driving transepithelial transport of various solutes. The efficiency of this Na-K-ATPase-driven vectorial transport depends on the integrity of epithelial junctions that maintain polar distribution of membrane transporters, including the basolateral sodium pump, and restrict paracellular diffusion of solutes. The review summarizes the data showing that, in addition to pumping ions, the Na-K-ATPase located at the sites of cell-cell junction acts as a cell adhesion molecule by interacting with the Na-K-ATPase of the adjacent cell in the intercellular space accompanied by anchoring to the cytoskeleton in the cytoplasm. The review also discusses the experimental evidence on the importance of a specific amino acid region in the extracellular domain of the Na-K-ATPase β(1) subunit for the Na-K-ATPase trans-dimerization and intercellular adhesion. Furthermore, a possible role of N-glycans linked to the Na-K-ATPase β(1) subunit in regulation of epithelial junctions by modulating β(1)-β(1) interactions is discussed.

Kinetic analysis of gill (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase activity in selected ontogenetic stages of the Amazon River shrimp, Macrobrachium amazonicum (Decapoda, Palaemonidae): interactions at ATP- and cation-binding sites

We investigated modulation by ATP, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺ and NH₄⁺ and inhibition by ouabain of (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase activity in microsomal homogenates of whole zoeae I and decapodid III (formerly zoea IX) and whole-body and gill homogenates of juvenile and adult Amazon River shrimps, Macrobrachium amazonicum. (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase-specific activity was increased twofold in decapodid III compared to zoea I, juveniles and adults, suggesting an important role in this ontogenetic stage. The apparent affinity for ATP (K(M) = 0.09 ± 0.01 mmol L⁻¹) of the decapodid III (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase, about twofold greater than the other stages, further highlights this relevance. Modulation of (Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase activity by K⁺ also revealed a threefold greater affinity for K⁺ (K₀.₅ = 0.91 ± 0.04 mmol L⁻¹) in decapodid III than in other stages; NH₄⁺ had no modulatory effect. The affinity for Na⁺ (K₀.₅ = 13.2 ± 0.6 mmol L⁻¹) of zoea I (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase was fourfold less than other stages. Modulation by Na⁺, Mg²⁺ and NH₄⁺ obeyed cooperative kinetics, while K⁺ modulation exhibited Michaelis-Menten behavior. Rates of maximal Mg²⁺ stimulation of ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity differed in each ontogenetic stage, suggesting that Mg²⁺-stimulated ATPases other than (Na⁺,K⁺)-ATPase are present. Ouabain inhibition suggests that, among the various ATPase activities present in the different stages, Na⁺-ATPase may be involved in the ontogeny of osmoregulation in larval M. amazonicum. The NH₄⁺-stimulated, ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity seen in zoea I and decapodid III may reflect a stage-specific means of ammonia excretion since functional gills are absent in the early larval stages.

"The Lower Threshold" phenomenon in tumor cells toward endogenous digitalis-like compounds: Responsible for tumorigenesis?

Since their first discovery as potential anti-cancer drugs decades ago, there is increasing evidence that digitalis-like compounds (DLC) have anti-tumor effects. Less is known about endogenous DLC (EDLC) metabolism and regulation. As stress hormones synthesized in and secreted from the adrenal gland, they likely take part in the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In a previous study, we revealed reduced EDLC concentrations in plasma and organs from immune-compromised animals and proposed that a similar situation of a deregulated HPA axis with "adrenal EDLF exhaustion" may contribute to tumorigenesis in chronic stress situations. Here, we put forward the hypothesis that a lowered EDLC response threshold of tumor cells as compared with normal cells increases the risk of tumorigenesis, especially in those individuals with reduced EDLC plasma concentrations after chronic stress exposure. We will evaluate this hypothesis by (a) summarizing the effects of different DLC concentrations on tumor as compared with normal cells and (b) reviewing some essential differences in the Na/K-ATPase of tumor as compared with normal cells (isoform pattern, pump activity, mutations of other signalosome receptors). We will conclude that (1) tumor cells, indeed, seem to have their individual "physiologic" EDLC response range that already starts at pmolar levels and (2) that individuals with markedly reduced (pmolar) EDLC plasma levels are predisposed to cancer because these EDLC concentrations will predominantly stimulate the proliferation of tumor cells. Finally, we will summarize preliminary results from our department supporting this hypothesis.

A marked animal-vegetal polarity in the localization of Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity and its down-regulation following progesterone-induced maturation

The stage-VI Xenopus oocyte has a very distinct animal-vegetal polarity with structural and functional asymmetry. In this study, we show the expression and distribution pattern of Na(+),K(+) -ATPase in stage-VI oocytes, and its changes following progesterone-induced maturation. Using enzyme-specific electron microscopy phosphatase histochemistry, [(3) H]-ouabain autoradiography, and immunofluorescence cytochemistry at light microscopic level, we find that Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity is mainly confined to the animal hemisphere. Electron microscopy histochemical results also suggest that polarized distribution of Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity persists following progesterone-induced maturation, and it becomes gradually more polarized towards the animal pole. The time course following progesterone-induced maturation suggests that there is an initial up-regulation and then gradual down-regulation of Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity leading to germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD). By GVBD, the Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity is completely down-regulated due to endocytotic removal of pump molecules from the plasma membrane into the sub-cortical region of the oocyte. This study provides the first direct evidence for a marked asymmetric localization of Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity in any vertebrate oocyte. Here, we propose that such asymmetry in Na(+),K(+) -ATPase activity in stage-VI oocytes, and their down-regulation following progesterone-induced maturation, is likely to have a role in the active state of the germinal vesicle in stage-VI oocytes and chromosomal condensation after GVBD.

Muscle fatigue and excitation-contraction coupling responses following a session of prolonged cycling

AIM

The mechanisms underlying the fatigue that occurs in human muscle following sustained activity are thought to reside in one or more of the excitation-contraction coupling (E-C coupling) processes. This study investigated the association between the changes in select E-C coupling properties and the impairment in force generation that occurs with prolonged cycling.

METHODS

Ten volunteers with a peak aerobic power (VO(2peak)) of 2.95 ± 0.27 L min(-1) (mean ± SE), exercised for 2 h at 62 ± 1.3%. Quadriceps function was assessed and tissue properties (vastus lateralis) were measured prior to (E1-pre) and following (E1-post) exercise and on three consecutive days of recovery (R1, R2 and R3).

RESULTS

While exercise failed to depress the maximal activity (V(max) ) of the Na(+) ,K(+) -ATPase (P = 0.10), reductions (P < 0.05) were found at E1-post in V(max) of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) -ATPase (-22%), Ca(2+) -uptake (-26%) and phase 1(-33%) and 2 (-38%) Ca(2+) -release. Both V(max) and Ca(2+) -release (phase 2) recovered by R1, whereas Ca(2+) -uptake and Ca(2+) -release (phase 1) remained depressed (P < 0.05) at R1 and at R1 and R2 and possibly R3 (P < 0.06) respectively. Compared with E1-pre, fatigue was observed (P < 0.05) at 10 Hz electrical stimulation at E1-post (-56%), which persisted throughout recovery. The exercise increased (P < 0.05) overall content of the Na(+), K(+)-ATPase (R1, R2 and R3) and the isoforms β2 (R1, R2 and R3) and β3 (R3), but not β1 or the α-isoforms (α1, α2 and α3).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest a possible direct role for Ca(2+)-release in fatigue and demonstrate a single exercise session can induce overlapping perturbations and adaptations (particularly to the Na(+), K(+)-ATPase).

Stabilization of the α2 isoform of Na,K-ATPase by mutations in a phospholipid binding pocket

The α2 isoform of Na,K-ATPase plays a crucial role in Ca(2+) handling, muscle contraction, and inotropic effects of cardiac glycosides. Thus, structural, functional, and pharmacological comparisons of α1, α2, and α3 are of great interest. In Pichia pastoris membranes expressing human α1β1, α2β1, and α3β1 isoforms, or using the purified isoform proteins, α2 is most easily inactivated by heating and detergent (α2 ≫ α3 > α1). We have examined an hypothesis that instability of α2 is caused by weak interactions with phosphatidylserine, which stabilizes the protein. Three residues, unique to α2, in trans-membrane segments M8 (Ala-920), M9 (Leu-955), and M10 (Val-981) were replaced by equivalent residues in α1, singly or together. Judged by the sensitivity of the purified proteins to heat, detergent, "affinity" for phosphatidylserine, and stabilization by FXYD1, the triple mutant (A920V/L955F/V981P, called α2VFP) has stability properties close to α1, although single mutants have only modest or insignificant effects. Functional differences between α1 and α2 are unaffected in α2VFP. A compound, 6-pentyl-2-pyrone, isolated from the marine fungus Trichoderma gamsii is a novel probe of specific phospholipid-protein interactions. 6-Pentyl-2-pyrone inactivates the isoforms in the order α2 ≫ α3 > α1, and α2VFP and FXYD1 protect the isoforms. In native rat heart sarcolemma membranes, which contain α1, α2, and α3 isoforms, a component attributable to α2 is the least stable. The data provide clear evidence for a specific phosphatidylserine binding pocket between M8, M9, and M10 and confirm that the instability of α2 is due to suboptimal interactions with phosphatidylserine. In physiological conditions, the instability of α2 may be important for its cellular regulatory functions.

Increased susceptibility to cortical spreading depression in the mouse model of familial hemiplegic migraine type 2

Familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2) is an autosomal dominant form of migraine with aura that is caused by mutations of the α2-subunit of the Na,K-ATPase, an isoform almost exclusively expressed in astrocytes in the adult brain. We generated the first FHM2 knock-in mouse model carrying the human W887R mutation in the Atp1a2 orthologous gene. Homozygous Atp1a2(R887/R887) mutants died just after birth, while heterozygous Atp1a2(+/R887) mice showed no apparent clinical phenotype. The mutant α2 Na,K-ATPase protein was barely detectable in the brain of homozygous mutants and strongly reduced in the brain of heterozygous mutants, likely as a consequence of endoplasmic reticulum retention and subsequent proteasomal degradation, as we demonstrate in transfected cells. In vivo analysis of cortical spreading depression (CSD), the phenomenon underlying migraine aura, revealed a decreased induction threshold and an increased velocity of propagation in the heterozygous FHM2 mouse. Since several lines of evidence involve a specific role of the glial α2 Na,K pump in active reuptake of glutamate from the synaptic cleft, we hypothesize that CSD facilitation in the FHM2 mouse model is sustained by inefficient glutamate clearance by astrocytes and consequent increased cortical excitatory neurotransmission. The demonstration that FHM2 and FHM1 mutations share the ability to facilitate induction and propagation of CSD in mouse models further support the role of CSD as a key migraine trigger.

Selective inhibition of the cellular sodium pump by emicymarin and 14ß anhydroxy bufadienolides

Partial inhibition of the sodium pump (Na/K-ATP-ase) by a circulating inhibitor is known to occur in humans. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of novel bufadienolides lacking an oxygen at C14 on sodium pumps in human erythrocytes and leucocytes, dog kidney and pig brain and to document the importance of the stereochemistry at C17 on the ability to inhibit these sodium pumps. 14α bufadienolides were weak inhibitors of all preparations studied. 3ß-OH,5ß,14ß bufadienolide produced near-total inhibition of dog kidney and pig brain Na/K-ATP-ase. Over the same concentration range, it maximally inhibited the sodium pump of erythrocytes by 70% and leucocytes by 47%. The inhibition profile induced in the leucocyte sodium pump deviated significantly from the simple sigmoidal relationship present in the other preparations over the 3×10(-5) to 1×10(-7) mol/l concentration range. Allo-emicymarin (17α) was confirmed to be a weak inhibitor of the sodium pump/ATP-ase compared with emicymarin (17ß) but both were weaker inhibitors of the leucocyte sodium pump than that of the other preparations. Molecules with the C14 in the ß configuration are more efficacious than in the α configuration. In the case of emicymarin, the attachment of the furone at C17 in the α configuration results in substantially weaker inhibitory activity than in the beta configuration, seen in most cardenolides and bufadienolides. Unlike ouabain and bufalin that show no specificity of action in these preparations, 3ß- OH,5ß,14ß bufadienolide selectively inhibits the activity of at least one low-prevalence subset of the leucocyte Na/K-ATP-ase.

Diverse pathways for maturation of the Na,K-ATPase β1 and β2 subunits in the endoplasmic reticulum of Madin-Darby canine kidney cells

Proper folding of the Na,K-ATPase β subunits followed by assembly with the α subunits is necessary for their export from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Here we examine roles of the ER lectin chaperone, calnexin, and non-lectin chaperone, BiP, in folding and quality control of the β(1) and β(2) subunits in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. Short term prevention of glycan-calnexin interactions by castanospermine slightly increases ER retention of β(1), suggesting minor involvement of calnexin in subunit folding. However, both prolonged incubation with castanospermine and removal of N-glycosylation sites do not affect the α(1)-assembly or trafficking of β(1) but increase the amount of the β(1)-bound BiP, showing that BiP can compensate for calnexin in assisting β(1) folding. In contrast to β(1), prevention of either N-glycosylation or glycan-calnexin interactions abolishes the α(1)-assembly and export of β(2) from the ER despite increased β(2)-BiP binding. Mutations in the α(1)-interacting regions of β(1) and β(2) subunits impair α(1) assembly but do not affect folding of the β subunits tested by their sensitivity to trypsin. At the same time, these mutations increase the amount of β-bound BiP but not of β-bound calnexin and increase ER retention of both β-isoforms. BiP, therefore, prevents the ER export of folded but α(1)-unassembled β subunits. These α(1)-unassembled β subunits are degraded faster than α(1)-bound β subunits, preventing ER overload. In conclusion, folding of the β(1) and β(2) subunits is assisted predominantly by BiP and calnexin, respectively. Folded β(1) and β(2) either assemble with α(1) or bind BiP. The α(1)-bound β subunits traffic to the Golgi, whereas BiP-bound β subunits are retained and degraded in the ER.

Epithelial pathways in choroid plexus electrolyte transport

A stable intraventricular milieu is crucial for maintaining normal neuronal function. The choroid plexus epithelium produces the cerebrospinal fluid and in doing so influences the chemical composition of the interstitial fluid of the brain. Here, we review the molecular pathways involved in transport of the electrolytes Na+, K+, Cl-, and HCO3(-)across the choroid plexus epithelium.

Critical role of the isoform-specific region in alpha1-Na,K-ATPase trafficking and protein Kinase C-dependent regulation

The isoform-specific region (ISR) is a region of structural heterogeneity among the four isoforms of the catalytic alpha-subunit of the Na,K-ATPase and an important structural determinant for isoform-specific functions. In the present study, we examined the role of a potential dileucine clathrin adaptor recognition motif [DE]XXXL[LI] embedded within the alpha1-ISR. To this end, a rat alpha1 construct where leucine 499 was replaced by a valine (as found in the alpha2 isoform sequence) was compared to wild-type rat alpha1 after stable expression in opossum kidney cells. Total Na,K-ATPase expression, activity, or in situ (86)Rb(+) transport was not affected by the L499V mutation. However, surface Na,K-ATPase expression was nearly doubled. This increase was associated with a reduced rate of internalization from the cell surface of about 50% after a 4 h chase and became undetectable if clathrin-coated pit-mediated trafficking was blocked with chlorpromazine. Further, PKC-induced stimulation of Na,K-ATPase-mediated (86)Rb(+) uptake was doubled in mutant-expressing cells, comparable to the chimera containing the intact alpha2-ISR. Similar results were observed when the potential motif was disrupted by means of an E495S mutation. These findings suggest that a dileucine motif embedded within the Na,K-ATPase alpha1-ISR plays a critical role in the surface expression of Na,K-ATPase alpha1 polypeptides at steady state and in the response to PKC activation.

Increase in ouabain-sensitive K+-ATPase activity in hepatocellular carcinoma by overexpression of Na+, K+-ATPase alpha 3-isoform

Na(+),K(+)-ATPase is a housekeeping pump in virtually all animal cells. Recently, cardiac glycosides that inhibit Na(+),K(+)-ATPase have been reported to be candidate for novel anticancer drug. Here, we investigated clinical significance of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase alpha1-isoform (alpha 1NaK), alpha2-isoform (alpha 2NaK) and alpha 3-isoform (alpha 3NaK) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Interestingly, the expression levels of alpha 3NaK protein in HCC tissues were significantly higher than those in the accompanying non-tumor tissues, whereas no significant increases in expression of alpha 1NaK and alpha 2NaK proteins were observed in HCC compared to non-tumor tissues. The ouabain (10 microM)-sensitive K(+)-ATPase activities (Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activities) in the membrane fraction from HCC tissue were significantly higher than those from non-tumor tissues. The Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity was positively and significantly correlated with the expression level of alpha 3NaK. Apparent affinity for Na(+) in the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity in HCC tissues was significantly lower than that in non-tumor tissues, consistent with an elevated expression of alpha 3NaK relative to alpha 1NaK. Our results suggest that overexpression of alpha 3NaK increases the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity of HCC cells.

N-glycan-dependent quality control of the Na,K-ATPase beta(2) subunit

Bulky hydrophilic N-glycans stabilize the proper tertiary structure of glycoproteins. In addition, N-glycans comprise the binding sites for the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident lectins that assist correct folding of newly synthesized glycoproteins. To reveal the role of N-glycans in maturation of the Na,K-ATPase beta(2) subunit in the ER, the effects of preventing or modifying the beta(2) subunit N-glycosylation on trafficking of the subunit and its binding to the ER lectin chaperone, calnexin, were studied in MDCK cells. Preventing N-glycosylation abolishes binding of the beta(2) subunit to calnexin and results in the ER retention of the subunit. Furthermore, the fully N-glycosylated beta(2) subunit is retained in the ER when glycan-calnexin interactions are prevented by castanospermine, showing that N-glycan-mediated calnexin binding is required for correct subunit folding. Calnexin binding persists for several hours after translation is stopped with cycloheximide, suggesting that the beta(2) subunit undergoes repeated post-translational calnexin-assisted folding attempts. Homology modeling of the beta(2) subunit using the crystal structure of the alpha(1)-beta(1) Na,K-ATPase shows the presence of a relatively hydrophobic amino acid cluster proximal to N-glycosylation sites 2 and 7. Combined, but not separate, removal of sites 2 and 7 dramatically impairs calnexin binding and prevents the export of the beta(2) subunit from the ER. Similarly, hydrophilic substitution of two hydrophobic amino acids in this cluster disrupts both beta(2)-calnexin binding and trafficking of the subunit to the Golgi. Therefore, the hydrophobic residues in the proximity of N-glycans 2 and 7 are required for post-translational calnexin binding to these N-glycans in incompletely folded conformers, which, in turn, is necessary for maturation of the Na,K-ATPase beta(2) subunit.

Selectivity of digitalis glycosides for isoforms of human Na,K-ATPase

There are four isoforms of the alpha subunit (alpha1-4) and three isoforms of the beta subunit (beta1-3) of Na,K-ATPase, with distinct tissue-specific distribution and physiological functions. alpha2 is thought to play a key role in cardiac and smooth muscle contraction and be an important target of cardiac glycosides. An alpha2-selective cardiac glycoside could provide important insights into physiological and pharmacological properties of alpha2. The isoform selectivity of a large number of cardiac glycosides has been assessed utilizing alpha1beta1, alpha2beta1, and alpha3beta1 isoforms of human Na,K-ATPase expressed in Pichia pastoris and the purified detergent-soluble isoform proteins. Binding affinities of the digitalis glycosides, digoxin, beta-methyl digoxin, and digitoxin show moderate but highly significant selectivity (up to 4-fold) for alpha2/alpha3 over alpha1 (K(D) alpha1 > alpha2 = alpha3). By contrast, ouabain shows moderate selectivity ( approximately 2.5-fold) for alpha1 over alpha2 (K(D) alpha1 <or= alpha3 < alpha2). Binding affinities for the three isoforms of digoxigenin, digitoxigenin, and all other aglycones tested are indistinguishable (K(D) alpha1 = alpha3 = alpha2), showing that the sugar determines isoform selectivity. Selectivity patterns for inhibition of Na,K-ATPase activity of the purified isoform proteins are consistent with binding selectivities, modified somewhat by different affinities of K(+) ions for antagonizing cardiac glycoside binding on the three isoforms. The mechanistic insight on the role of the sugars is strongly supported by a recent structure of Na,K-ATPase with bound ouabain, which implies that aglycones of cardiac glycosides cannot discriminate between isoforms. In conclusion, several digitalis glycosides, but not ouabain, are moderately alpha2-selective. This supports a major role of alpha2 in cardiac contraction and cardiotonic effects of digitalis glycosides.

Hyperpolarization-activated inward leakage currents caused by deletion or mutation of carboxy-terminal tyrosines of the Na+/K+-ATPase {alpha} subunit

The Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase mediates electrogenic transport by exporting three Na(+) ions in exchange for two K(+) ions across the cell membrane per adenosine triphosphate molecule. The location of two Rb(+) ions in the crystal structures of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase has defined two "common" cation binding sites, I and II, which accommodate Na(+) or K(+) ions during transport. The configuration of site III is still unknown, but the crystal structure has suggested a critical role of the carboxy-terminal KETYY motif for the formation of this "unique" Na(+) binding site. Our two-electrode voltage clamp experiments on Xenopus oocytes show that deletion of two tyrosines at the carboxy terminus of the human Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase alpha(2) subunit decreases the affinity for extracellular and intracellular Na(+), in agreement with previous biochemical studies. Apparently, the DeltaYY deletion changes Na(+) affinity at site III but leaves the common sites unaffected, whereas the more extensive DeltaKETYY deletion affects the unique site and the common sites as well. In the absence of extracellular K(+), the DeltaYY construct mediated ouabain-sensitive, hyperpolarization-activated inward currents, which were Na(+) dependent and increased with acidification. Furthermore, the voltage dependence of rate constants from transient currents under Na(+)/Na(+) exchange conditions was reversed, and the amounts of charge transported upon voltage pulses from a certain holding potential to hyperpolarizing potentials and back were unequal. These findings are incompatible with a reversible and exclusively extracellular Na(+) release/binding mechanism. In analogy to the mechanism proposed for the H(+) leak currents of the wild-type Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase, we suggest that the DeltaYY deletion lowers the energy barrier for the intracellular Na(+) occlusion reaction, thus destabilizing the Na(+)-occluded state and enabling inward leak currents. The leakage currents are prevented by aromatic amino acids at the carboxy terminus. Thus, the carboxy terminus of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase alpha subunit represents a structural and functional relay between Na(+) binding site III and the intracellular cation occlusion gate.

Ouabain binding kinetics and FXYD7 expression in astrocytes and neurons in primary cultures: implications for cellular contributions to extracellular K+ homeostasis?

Although Na+,K+-ATPase-mediated K+ uptake into astrocytes plays a major role in re-establishing resting extracellular K+ following neuronal excitation little information is available about astrocytic Na+,K+-ATPase function, let alone mechanisms returning K+ to neurons. The catalytic units of the Na+,K+-ATPase are the astrocyte-specific α2, the neuron-specific α3 and the ubiquitously expressed α1. In the present work, Bmax and KD values for α1, α2 and α3 subunits were computed in cultured cerebro-cortical mouse astrocytes and cerebellar granule neurons by non-linear regression as high-affinity (α2, α3) and low-affinity (α1) [3H]ouabain binding sites, which stoichiometrically equal transporter sites. Cellular expression was also determined of the brain- and α1-β1 isoform-specific FDYX7, regulating Na+,K+-ATPase efficiency and K+-sensitivity. From ouabain-sensitive K+ uptake rates published by ourselves (Walz and Hertz, 1982) or others (Atterwill et al., 1985), Na+,K+-ATPase turnover was determined. Subunits α2 and α3 showed Bmax of 15-30 pmol/mg protein, with maximum turnover rates of 70-80/s. Bmax of the α1 subunit was low in neurons but very high in astrocytes (645 pmol/mg protein), where turnover rate was slow, reflecting expression of selectively expressed FXYD7, and binding was increased by K+. The role of these characteristics for K+ homeostasis are discussed.

Na+,K+-ATPase Na+ affinity in rat skeletal muscle fiber types

Previous studies in expression systems have found different ion activation of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase isozymes, which suggest that different muscles have different ion affinities. The rate of ATP hydrolysis was used to quantify Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity, and the Na(+) affinity of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase was studied in total membranes from rat muscle and purified membranes from muscle with different fiber types. The Na(+) affinity was higher (K(m) lower) in oxidative muscle compared with glycolytic muscle and in purified membranes from oxidative muscle compared with glycolytic muscle. Na(+),K(+)-ATPase isoform analysis implied that heterodimers containing the beta(1) isoform have a higher Na(+) affinity than heterodimers containing the beta(2) isoform. Immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that dimers with alpha(1) are responsible for approximately 36% of the total Na,K-ATPase activity. Selective inhibition of the alpha(2) isoform with ouabain suggested that heterodimers containing the alpha(1) isoform have a higher Na(+) affinity than heterodimers containing the alpha(2) isoform. The estimated K(m) values for Na(+) are 4.0, 5.5, 7.5 and 13 mM for alpha(1)beta(1), alpha(2)beta(1), alpha(1)beta(2) and alpha(2)beta(2), respectively. The affinity differences and isoform distributions imply that the degree of activation of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase at physiological Na(+) concentrations differs between muscles (oxidative and glycolytic) and between subcellular membrane domains with different isoform compositions. These differences may have consequences for ion balance across the muscle membrane.

Potassium-transporting proteins in skeletal muscle: cellular location and fibre-type differences

Abstract Potassium (K(+)) displacement in skeletal muscle may be an important factor in the development of muscle fatigue during intense exercise. It has been shown in vitro that an increase in the extracellular K(+) concentration ([K(+)](e)) to values higher than approx. 10 mm significantly reduce force development in unfatigued skeletal muscle. Several in vivo studies have shown that [K(+)](e) increases progressively with increasing work intensity, reaching values higher than 10 mm. This increase in [K(+)](e) is expected to be even higher in the transverse (T)-tubules than the concentration reached in the interstitium. Besides the voltage-sensitive K(+) (K(v)) channels that generate the action potential (AP) it is suggested that the big-conductance Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) (K(Ca)1.1) channel contributes significantly to the K(+) release into the T-tubules. Also the ATP-dependent K(+) (K(ATP)) channel participates, but is suggested primarily to participate in K(+) release to the interstitium. Because there is restricted diffusion of K(+) to the interstitium, K(+) released to the T-tubules during AP propagation will be removed primarily by reuptake mediated by transport proteins located in the T-tubule membrane. The most important protein that mediates K(+) reuptake in the T-tubules is the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase alpha(2) dimers, but a significant contribution of the strong inward rectifier K(+) (Kir2.1) channel is also suggested. The Na(+), K(+), 2Cl(-) 1 (NKCC1) cotransporter also participates in K(+) reuptake but probably mainly from the interstitium. The relative content of the different K(+)-transporting proteins differs in oxidative and glycolytic muscles, and might explain the different [K(+)](e) tolerance observed.

The physiological significance of the cardiotonic steroid/ouabain-binding site of the Na,K-ATPase

The Na,K-ATPase is the membrane "pump" that generates the Na(+) and K(+) gradients across the plasma membrane that drives many physiological processes. This enzyme is highly sensitive to inhibition by cardiotonic steroids, most notably the digitalis/ouabain class of compounds, which have been used for centuries to treat congestive heart failure and arrhythmias. The amino acids that constitute the ouabain-binding site are highly conserved across the evolutionary spectrum. This could be fortuitous or could result from this site being conserved because it has an important biological function. New physiological approaches using genetically engineered mice are being used to define the biological significance of the "receptor function" of the Na,K-ATPase and its regulation by potential endogenous cardiotonic steroid-like compounds. These studies extend the reach of earlier studies involving the biochemical purification of endogenous regulatory ligands.

Assembly with the Na,K-ATPase alpha(1) subunit is required for export of beta(1) and beta(2) subunits from the endoplasmic reticulum

The level of the heterodimeric Na,K-ATPase is tightly controlled in epithelia to maintain appropriate transport function. The catalytic Na,K-ATPase alpha subunit is not able to exit the ER or catalyze ion transport unless assembled with the beta subunit. However, requirements for the ER exit of the Na,K-ATPase beta subunit that plays an additional, ion-transport-independent, role in intercellular adhesion are not clear. Exogenous beta(1) or beta(2) subunits expressed in renal MDCK cells replace endogenous beta(1) subunits in the alpha-beta complexes in the ER, resulting in a decrease in the amount of the alpha(1)-bound endogenous beta(1) subunits by 47-61% with no change in the amount of alpha(1) subunits. Disruption of the alpha(1)-beta association by mutations in defined alpha(1)-interacting regions of either beta(1) or beta(2) subunits results in the ER retention and rapid degradation of unassembled mutants. Hence, the ER quality control system allows export only of assembled alpha-beta complexes to the Golgi, thereby maintaining an equimolar ratio of alpha and beta subunits in the plasma membrane, whereas the number of alpha(1) subunits in the ER determines the amount of the alpha-beta complexes.

Selective expression of a sodium pump isozyme by cough receptors and evidence for its essential role in regulating cough

We have identified a distinct subtype of airway vagal afferent nerve that plays an essential role in regulating the cough reflex. These afferents are exquisitely sensitive to punctate mechanical stimuli, acid, and decreases in extracellular chloride concentrations, but are insensitive to capsaicin, bradykinin, histamine, adenosine, serotonin, or changes in airway intraluminal pressures. In this study we used intravital imaging, retrograde neuronal tracing, and electrophysiological analyses to characterize the structural basis for their peculiar mechanical sensitivity and to further characterize the regulation of their excitability. In completing these experiments, we uncovered evidence for an essential role of an isozyme of Na(+)-K(+) ATPase in regulating cough. These vagal sensory neurons arise bilaterally from the nodose ganglia and are selectively and brilliantly stained intravitally with the styryl dye FM2-10. Cough receptor terminations are confined and adherent to the extracellular matrix separating the airway epithelium and smooth muscle layers, a site of extensive remodeling in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The cough receptor terminals uniquely express the alpha(3) subunit of Na(+)-K(+) ATPase. Intravital staining of cough receptors by FM2-10, cough receptor excitability in vitro, and coughing in vivo are potently and selectively inhibited by the sodium pump inhibitor ouabain. These data provide the first detailed morphological description of the peripheral terminals of the sensory nerves regulating cough and identify a selective molecular target for their modulation.

The GPA-dependent, spherostomatocytosis mutant AE1 E758K induces GPA-independent, endogenous cation transport in amphibian oocytes

The previously undescribed heterozygous missense mutation E758K was discovered in the human AE1/SLC4A1/band 3 gene in two unrelated patients with well-compensated hereditary spherostomatocytic anemia (HSt). Oocyte surface expression of AE1 E758K, in contrast to that of wild-type AE1, required coexpressed glycophorin A (GPA). The mutant polypeptide exhibited, in parallel, strong GPA dependence of DIDS-sensitive (36)Cl(-) influx, trans-anion-dependent (36)Cl(-) efflux, and Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange activities at near wild-type levels. AE1 E758K expression was also associated with GPA-dependent increases of DIDS-sensitive pH-independent SO(4)(2-) uptake and oxalate uptake with altered pH dependence. In marked contrast, the bumetanide- and ouabain-insensitive (86)Rb(+) influx associated with AE1 E758K expression was largely GPA-independent in Xenopus oocytes and completely GPA-independent in Ambystoma oocytes. AE1 E758K-associated currents in Xenopus oocytes also exhibited little or no GPA dependence. (86)Rb(+) influx was higher but inward cation current was lower in oocytes expressing AE1 E758K than previously reported in oocytes expressing the AE1 HSt mutants S731P and H734R. The pharmacological inhibition profile of AE1 E758K-associated (36)Cl(-) influx differed from that of AE1 E758K-associated (86)Rb(+) influx, as well as from that of wild-type AE1-mediated Cl(-) transport. Thus AE1 E758K-expressing oocytes displayed GPA-dependent surface polypeptide expression and anion transport, accompanied by substantially GPA-independent, pharmacologically distinct Rb(+) flux and by small, GPA-independent currents. The data strongly suggest that most of the increased cation transport associated with the novel HSt mutant AE1 E758K reflects activation of endogenous oocyte cation permeability pathways, rather than cation translocation through the mutant polypeptide.

Isoform specificity of cardiac glycosides binding to human Na+,K+-ATPase alpha1beta1, alpha2beta1 and alpha3beta1

Cardiac glycosides inhibit the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and are used for the treatment of symptomatic heart failure and atrial fibrillation. In human heart three isoforms of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase are expressed: alpha(1)beta(1), alpha(2)beta(1) and alpha(3)beta(1). It is unknown, if clinically used cardiac glycosides differ in isoform specific affinities, and if the isoforms have specific subcellular localization in human cardiac myocytes. Human Na(+),K(+)-ATPase isoforms alpha(1)beta(1), alpha(2)beta(1) and alpha(3)beta(1) were expressed in yeast which has no endogenous Na(+),K(+)-ATPase. Isoform specific affinities of digoxin, digitoxin, beta-acetyldigoxin, methyldigoxin and ouabain were assessed in [(3)H]-ouabain binding assays in the absence or presence of K(+) (each n=5). The subcellular localizations of the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase isoforms were investigated in isolated human atrial cardiomyocytes by immunohistochemistry. In the absence of K(+), methyldigoxin (alpha(1)>alpha(3)>alpha(2)) and ouabain (alpha(1)=alpha(3)>alpha(2)) showed distinct isoform specific affinities, while for digoxin, digitoxin and beta-acetyldigoxin no differences were found. In the presence of K(+), also digoxin (alpha(2)=alpha(3)>alpha(1)) and beta-acetyldigoxin (alpha(1)>alpha(3)) had isoform specificities. A comparison between the cardiac glycosides demonstrated highly different affinity profiles for the isoforms. Immunohistochemistry showed that all three isoforms are located in the plasma membrane and in intracellular membranes, but only alpha(1)beta(1) and alpha(2)beta(1) are located in the T-tubuli. Cardiac glycosides show distinct isoform specific affinities and different affinity profiles to Na(+),K(+)-ATPase isoforms which have different subcellular localizations in human cardiomyocytes. Thus, in contrast to current notion, different cardiac glycoside agents may significantly differ in their pharmacological profile which could be of hitherto unknown clinical relevance.

Crystal structure of the sodium-potassium pump (Na+,K+-ATPase) with bound potassium and ouabain

The sodium-potassium pump (Na(+),K(+)-ATPase) is responsible for establishing Na(+) and K(+) concentration gradients across the plasma membrane and therefore plays an essential role in, for instance, generating action potentials. Cardiac glycosides, prescribed for congestive heart failure for more than 2 centuries, are efficient inhibitors of this ATPase. Here we describe a crystal structure of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase with bound ouabain, a representative cardiac glycoside, at 2.8 A resolution in a state analogous to E2.2K(+).Pi. Ouabain is deeply inserted into the transmembrane domain with the lactone ring very close to the bound K(+), in marked contrast to previous models. Due to antagonism between ouabain and K(+), the structure represents a low-affinity ouabain-bound state. Yet, most of the mutagenesis data obtained with the high-affinity state are readily explained by the present crystal structure, indicating that the binding site for ouabain is essentially the same. According to a homology model for the high affinity state, it is a closure of the binding cavity that confers a high affinity.

Inhibition of rat Na+(-)HCO3(-) cotransporter (NBCn1) function and expression by the alternative splice domain

The Na(+)-HCO(3)(-) cotransporter NBCn1 (SLC4A7) has multiple variants depending upon splice domains in the cytoplasmic amino- and carboxy-termini of the protein. In this study, we examined the role of the amino-terminal splice domain containing 123 amino acids (cassette II) in the regulation of NBCn1 function and expression. Polymerase chain reaction detected NBCn1 mRNAs containing cassette II in a variety of tissues. Two variants, NBCn1-B containing cassette II and NBCn1-E lacking cassette II, were expressed in Xenopus oocytes and assessed by two-electrode voltage clamp to measure the ionic current mediated by the transporters. The two variants showed similar current-voltage (I-V) relations when measured 3-4 days after RNA injection. Replacment of Cl() with gluconate did not affect the I-V relations. When exposed to solutions containing 20-50 mm Na(+), the current produced by NBCn1-B was slightly more positive than that produced by NBCn1-E. The two currents were similar at 100 mm Na(+). The slope conductances for the two variants were progressively increased at higher Na(+) levels, and the increases were parallel and superimposed. Measured at different time points after RNA injection, NBCn1-B produced lower conductance than NBCn1-E at 24-48 h. Protein expression of NBCn1-B was also low at these time points as determined by immunoblot of oocyte membrane preparation. Expressed in opossum kidney (OK) cells, NBCn1-E caused a 1.5-fold increase in ouabain-sensitive production of p-nitrophenol from p-phenyl phosphate compared with control preparations, whereas NBCn1-B had negligible effect. We conclude that the primary function of cassette II is to reduce NBCn1 protein expression.

Tear Dynamics Model

PURPOSE

Quantitative understanding of tear dynamics may help in developing better ophthalmic drug delivery vehicles and dry eye treatments. This paper attempts to develop a comprehensive model that can predict the effect of physiological parameters on various issues related to tear dynamics.

METHODS

The model is based on mass balances of water and solutes such as glucose, sodium, potassium, and chloride. The mass balances require models for the drainage of fluid through the canaliculi and the transport of tears and solutes through the conjunctiva. The model parameters are obtained by simulating Ussing-chamber experiments. The differential equations for the unsteady balances are solved numerically.

RESULTS

The model predicts that under normal conditions, the tear volume, tear osmolarity and potential are 7.1 microl, 297.6 mM, and -15.1 mV, respectively. The model also predicts that the conjunctiva is secretory and contributes about 25% of the total tear production. We also predict the effect of evaporation on tear physiology and show that an increase in evaporation increases osmolarity, reduces tear volume, and increases conjuctival secretion. Additionally, the new tear dynamics model helps assess the effect of osmolarity of the instilled drops, insertion of punctum plugs and use of moisture chamber as treatments for dry eyes. Furthermore, the model is used to predict the effect of modulation of specific transport pathways, which is proposed as a potential remedy for dry eyes, on conjuctival secretion and total tear volume.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the predicted results agree with the reported experimental results, at least qualitatively. However, some predictions disagree with experiments suggesting that further improvements in the model are needed. The model developed in this paper can improve our understanding of tear dynamics and also serve as a tool to evaluate the efficacy of various modalities at treating dry eyes.

Inhibition of mammal Na(+)K(+)-ATPase by diterpenes extracted from the Brazilian brown alga Dictyota cervicornis

The dolastane diterpenes 4-acetoxy-9,14-dihydroxydolast-1(15),7-diene (1) and 4,7-diacetoxy-14-hydroxydolast-1(15),8-diene (2) were isolated from specimens of the alga Dictyota cervicornis collected from the Rio de Janeiro coast, Brazil. Chemical structures of the diterpenes were assigned by 1D and 2D NMR spectral data for the first time. Both substances inhibited Na(+)K(+)-ATPase preparations from guinea-pig brain or kidney, with the same inhibitory potency towards enzyme isoforms. The maximal inhibition obtained for 1 was 40% at a concentration of 0.5 mm in the incubation mixture, while it reached 80% for compound 2 at this concentration. Ouabain insensitive ATPases were inhibited by 1, but not by 2. Data comparing the inhibitory potency of these compounds with that of ouabain and oleic acid suggest a higher degree of selectivity of 2 towards the Na(+)K(+)-pump. Cardiac glycosides such as ouabain are used classically in the treatment of heart failure, but alterations of Na(+)K(+)-pump activity are also involved in several other diseases. Therefore, the study of compounds interfering with this pump activity is gaining further importance.

E2P state stabilization by the N-terminal tail of the H,K-ATPase beta-subunit is critical for efficient proton pumping under in vivo conditions

The catalytic alpha-subunits of Na,K- and H,K-ATPase require an accessory beta-subunit for proper folding, maturation, and plasma membrane delivery but also for cation transport. To investigate the functional significance of the beta-N terminus of the gastric H,K-ATPase in vivo, several N-terminally truncated beta-variants were expressed in Xenopus oocytes, together with the S806C alpha-subunit variant. Upon labeling with the reporter fluorophore tetramethylrho da mine-6-maleimide, this construct can be used to determine the voltage-dependent distribution between E(1)P/E(2)P states. Whereas the E(1)P/E(2)P conformational equilibrium was unaffected for the shorter N-terminal deletions betaDelta4 and betaDelta8, we observed significant shifts toward E(1)P for the two larger deletions betaDelta13 and betaDelta29. Moreover, the reduced DeltaF/F ratios of betaDelta13 and betaDelta29 indicated an increased reverse reaction via E(2)P --> E(1)P + ADP --> E(1) + ATP, because cell surface expression was completely unaffected. This interpretation is supported by the reduced sensitivity of the mutants toward the E(2)P-specific inhibitor SCH28080, which becomes especially apparent at high concentrations (100 microm). Despite unaltered apparent Rb(+) affinities, the maximal Rb(+) uptake of these mutants was also significantly lowered. Considering the two putative interaction sites between the beta-N terminus and alpha-subunit revealed by the recent cryo-EM structure, the N-terminal tail of the H,K-ATPase beta-subunit may stabilize the pump in the E(2)P conformation, thereby increasing the efficiency of proton release against the million-fold proton gradient of the stomach lumen. Finally, we demonstrate that a similar truncation of the beta-N terminus of the closely related Na,K-ATPase does not affect the E(1)P/E(2)P distribution or pump activity, indicating that the E(2)P-stabilizing effect by the beta-N terminus is apparently a unique property of the H,K-ATPase.

Expression regulation of Na+-K+-ATPase α1-subunit subtypes in zebrafish gill ionocytes

In zebrafish ( Danio rerio), six distinct Na+-K+-ATPase (NKA) α1-subunit genes have been identified, and four of them, zatp1a1a.1, zatp1a1a.2, zatp1a1a.4, and zatp1a1a.5, are expressed in embryonic skin where different types of ionocytes appear. The present study attempted to test a hypothesis of whether these NKA α1 paralogues are specifically expressed and function in respective ionocytes. Double fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis demonstrated the specific expression of zatp1a1a.1, zatp1a1a.2, and zatp1a1a. 5 in NKA-rich (NaR) cells, Na+-Cl− cotransporter (NCC)-expressing cells, and H+-ATPase-rich (HR) cells, respectively, based on the colocalization of the three NKA α1 genes with marker genes of the respective ionocytes (epithelial Ca2+ channel in NaR cells; NCC in NCC cells; and H+-ATPase and Na+/H+ exchanger 3b in HR cells). The mRNA expression (by real-time PCR) of zatp1a1a.1, zatp1a1a.2, and zatp1a1a.5 were, respectively, upregulated by low-Ca2+, low-Cl−, and low-Na+ freshwater, which had previously been reported to stimulate uptake functions of Ca2+, Cl−, and Na+. However, zatp1a1a.4 was not colocalized with any of the three types of ionocytes, nor did its mRNA respond to the ambient ions examined. Taken together, zATP1a1a.1, zATP1a1a.2, and zATP1a1a.5 may provide driving force for Na+-coupled cotransporter activity specifically in NaR, NCC, and HR cells, respectively.

The C terminus of Na+,K+-ATPase controls Na+ affinity on both sides of the membrane through Arg935

The Na(+),K(+)-ATPase C terminus has a unique location between transmembrane segments, appearing to participate in a network of interactions. We have examined the functional consequences of amino acid substitutions in this region and deletions of the C terminus of varying lengths. Assays revealing separately the mutational effects on internally and externally facing Na(+) sites, as well as E(1)-E(2) conformational changes, have been applied. The results pinpoint the two terminal tyrosines, Tyr(1017) and Tyr(1018), as well as putative interaction partners, Arg(935) in the loop between transmembrane segments M8 and M9 and Lys(768) in transmembrane segment M5, as crucial to Na(+) activation of phosphorylation of E(1), a partial reaction reflecting Na(+) interaction on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane. Tyr(1017), Tyr(1018), and Arg(935) are furthermore indispensable to Na(+) interaction on the extracellular side of the membrane, as revealed by inability of high Na(+) concentrations to drive the transition from E(1)P to E(2)P backwards toward E(1)P and inhibit Na(+)-ATPase activity in mutants. Lys(768) is not important for Na(+) binding from the external side of the membrane but is involved in stabilization of the E(2) form. These data demonstrate that the C terminus controls Na(+) affinity on both sides of the membrane and suggest that Arg(935) constitutes an important link between the C terminus and the third Na(+) site, involving an arginine-pi stacking interaction between Arg(935) and the C-terminal tyrosines. Lys(768) may interact preferentially with the C terminus in E(1) and E(1)P forms and with the loop between transmembrane segments M6 and M7 in E(2) and E(2)P forms.

The structure of the Na+,K+-ATPase and mapping of isoform differences and disease-related mutations

The Na+,K+-ATPase transforms the energy of ATP to the maintenance of steep electrochemical gradients for sodium and potassium across the plasma membrane. This activity is tissue specific, in particular due to variations in the expressions of the alpha subunit isoforms one through four. Several mutations in alpha2 and 3 have been identified that link the specific function of the Na+,K+-ATPase to the pathophysiology of neurological diseases such as rapid-onset dystonia parkinsonism and familial hemiplegic migraine type 2. We show a mapping of the isoform differences and the disease-related mutations on the recently determined crystal structure of the pig renal Na+,K+-ATPase and a structural comparison to Ca2+-ATPase. Furthermore, we present new experimental data that address the role of a stretch of three conserved arginines near the C-terminus of the alpha subunit (Arg1003-Arg1005).

[Energetic applications: Na+/K+-ATPase and neuromuscular transmission]

Na/K-ATPase electrogenic activity and its indispensable role in maintaining gradients suggest that the modifications in isoform distribution and the functioning of the sodium pump have a major influence on both the neuronal functions, including excitability, and motor efficiency. This article proposes to clarify the involvement of Na/K-ATPase in the transmission of nerve influx within the peripheral nerve and then in the genesis, the maintenance, and the physiology of muscle contraction by comparing the data found in the literature with our work on neuron and muscle characterization of Na/K-ATPase activity and isoforms.

A link between FXYD3 (Mat-8)-mediated Na,K-ATPase regulation and differentiation of Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells

FXYD3 (Mat-8) proteins are regulators of Na,K-ATPase. In normal tissue, FXYD3 is mainly expressed in stomach and colon, but it is also overexpressed in cancer cells, suggesting a role in tumorogenesis. We show that FXYD3 silencing has no effect on cell proliferation but promotes cell apoptosis and prevents cell differentiation of human colon adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2), which is reflected by a reduction in alkaline phosphatase and villin expression, a change in several other differentiation markers, and a decrease in transepithelial resistance. Inhibition of cell differentiation in FXYD3-deficient cells is accompanied by an increase in the apparent Na+ and K+ affinities of Na,K-ATPase, reflecting the absence of Na,K-pump regulation by FXYD3. In addition, we observe a decrease in the maximal Na,K-ATPase activity due to a decrease in its turnover number, which correlates with a change in Na,K-ATPase isozyme expression that is characteristic of cancer cells. Overall, our results suggest an important role of FXYD3 in cell differentiation of Caco-2 cells. One possibility is that FXYD3 silencing prevents proper regulation of Na,K-ATPase, which leads to perturbation of cellular Na+ and K+ homeostasis and changes in the expression of Na,K-ATPase isozymes, whose functional properties are incompatible with Caco-2 cell differentiation.

Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase as the Target Enzyme for Organic and Inorganic Compounds

This paper gives an overview of the literature data concerning specific and non specific inhibitors of Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase receptor. The immobilization approaches developed to improve the rather low time and temperature stability of Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase, as well to preserve the enzyme properties were overviewed. The functional immobilization of Na⁺,K⁺-ATPase receptor as the target, with preservation of the full functional protein activity and access of various substances to an optimum number of binding sites under controlled conditions in the combination with high sensitive technology for the detection of enzyme activity is the basis for application of this enzyme in medical, pharmaceutical and environmental research.

Distribution of the Na,K-ATPase alpha subunit in the rat spiral ganglion and organ of corti

Processing of sound in the cochlea involves both afferent and efferent innervation. The Na,K-ATPase (NKA) is essential for cells that maintain hyperpolarized membrane potentials and sodium and potassium concentration gradients. Heterogeneity of NKA subunit expression is one mechanism that tailors physiology to particular cellular demands. Therefore, to provide insight into molecular differences that distinguish the various innervation pathways in the cochlea, we performed a variety of double labeling experiments with antibodies against three of the alpha isoforms of the NKA (NKA alpha 1-3) and markers identifying particular subsets of neurons or supporting cells in whole mount preparations of the organ of Corti and spiral ganglion. We found that the NKA alpha 3 is abundantly expressed within the membranes of the spiral ganglion somata, the type I afferent terminals contacting the inner hair cells, and the medial efferent terminals contacting the outer hair cells. We also found expression of the NKA alpha 1 in the supporting cells that neighbor the inner hair cells and express the glutamate transporter GLAST. These findings suggest that both the NKA alpha 1 and NKA alpha 3 are poised to play an essential role in the regulation of the type I afferent synapses, the medial efferent synapses, and also glutamate transport from the afferent-inner hair cell synapse.

Maternal dietary supplementation with saturated, but not monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids, leads to tissue-specific inhibition of offspring Na+,K+-ATPase

In rats, a maternal diet rich in lard is associated with reduced Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity in adult offspring kidney. We have addressed the role of different fatty acids by evaluating Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity in offspring of dams fed diets rich in saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA) or polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed, during pregnancy and suckling, a control diet (4% w/w corn oil) or a fatty acid supplemented diet (24% w/w). Offspring were reared on chow (4% PUFA) and studied at 6 months. mRNA expression (real-time PCR) of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase alpha subunit and protein expression of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase subunits (Western blot) were assessed in kidney and brain. Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity was reduced in kidney (P < 0.05 versus all groups) and brain (P < 0.05 versus control and MUFA offspring) of the SFA group. Neither Na(+),K(+)-ATPase alpha1 subunit mRNA expression, nor protein expression of total alpha, alpha1, alpha2, alpha3 or beta1 subunits were significantly altered in kidney in any dietary group. In brains of SFA offspring alpha1 mRNA expression (P < 0.05) was reduced compared with MUFA and PUFA offspring, but not controls. Also in brain, SFA offspring demonstrated reduced (P < 0.05) alpha1 subunit protein and increased phosphorylation (P < 0.05) of the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase modulating protein phospholemman at serine residue 63 (S63 PLM). Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity was similar to controls in heart and liver. In utero and neonatal exposure to a maternal diet rich in saturated fatty acids is associated with altered activity and expression of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase in adulthood, but mechanisms appear tissue specific.

Stria vascularis and vestibular dark cells: characterisation of main structures responsible for inner-ear homeostasis, and their pathophysiological relations

The regulation of inner-ear fluid homeostasis, with its parameters volume, concentration, osmolarity and pressure, is the basis for adequate response to stimulation. Many structures are involved in the complex process of inner-ear homeostasis. The stria vascularis and vestibular dark cells are the two main structures responsible for endolymph secretion, and possess many similarities. The characteristics of these structures are the basis for regulation of inner-ear homeostasis, while impaired function is related to various diseases. Their distinct morphology and function are described, and related to current knowledge of associated inner-ear diseases. Further research on the distinct function and regulation of these structures is necessary in order to develop future clinical interventions.