1
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Okhuarobo A, Kreifeldt M, Gandhi PJ, Lopez C, Martinez B, Fleck K, Bajo M, Bhattacharyya P, Dopico AM, Roberto M, Roberts AJ, Homanics GE, Contet C. Ethanol's interaction with BK channel α subunit residue K361 does not mediate behavioral responses to alcohol in mice. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:529-542. [PMID: 38135755 PMCID: PMC11116116 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02346-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Large conductance potassium (BK) channels are among the most sensitive molecular targets of ethanol and genetic variations in the channel-forming α subunit have been nominally associated with alcohol use disorders. However, whether the action of ethanol at BK α influences the motivation to drink alcohol remains to be determined. To address this question, we first tested the effect of systemically administered BK channel modulators on voluntary alcohol consumption in C57BL/6J males. Penitrem A (blocker) exerted dose-dependent effects on moderate alcohol intake, while paxilline (blocker) and BMS-204352 (opener) were ineffective. Because pharmacological manipulations are inherently limited by non-specific effects, we then sought to investigate the behavioral relevance of ethanol's direct interaction with BK α by introducing in the mouse genome a point mutation known to render BK channels insensitive to ethanol while preserving their physiological function. The BK α K361N substitution prevented ethanol from reducing spike threshold in medial habenula neurons. However, it did not alter acute responses to ethanol in vivo, including ataxia, sedation, hypothermia, analgesia, and conditioned place preference. Furthermore, the mutation did not have reproducible effects on alcohol consumption in limited, continuous, or intermittent access home cage two-bottle choice paradigms conducted in both males and females. Notably, in contrast to previous observations made in mice missing BK channel auxiliary β subunits, the BK α K361N substitution had no significant impact on ethanol intake escalation induced by chronic intermittent alcohol vapor inhalation. It also did not affect the metabolic and locomotor consequences of chronic alcohol exposure. Altogether, these data suggest that the direct interaction of ethanol with BK α does not mediate the alcohol-related phenotypes examined here in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agbonlahor Okhuarobo
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Max Kreifeldt
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Pauravi J Gandhi
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Lopez
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Briana Martinez
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kiera Fleck
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Michal Bajo
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Alex M Dopico
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Marisa Roberto
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amanda J Roberts
- The Scripps Research Institute, Animals Models Core Facility, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gregg E Homanics
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Candice Contet
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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2
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Pham T, Hussein T, Calis D, Bischof H, Skrabak D, Cruz Santos M, Maier S, Spähn D, Kalina D, Simonsig S, Ehinger R, Groschup B, Knipper M, Plesnila N, Ruth P, Lukowski R, Matt L. BK channels sustain neuronal Ca 2+ oscillations to support hippocampal long-term potentiation and memory formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:369. [PMID: 37989805 PMCID: PMC10663188 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05016-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Mutations of large conductance Ca2+- and voltage-activated K+ channels (BK) are associated with cognitive impairment. Here we report that CA1 pyramidal neuron-specific conditional BK knock-out (cKO) mice display normal locomotor and anxiety behavior. They do, however, exhibit impaired memory acquisition and retrieval in the Morris Water Maze (MWM) when compared to littermate controls (CTRL). In line with cognitive impairment in vivo, electrical and chemical long-term potentiation (LTP) in cKO brain slices were impaired in vitro. We further used a genetically encoded fluorescent K+ biosensor and a Ca2+-sensitive probe to observe cultured hippocampal neurons during chemical LTP (cLTP) induction. cLTP massively reduced intracellular K+ concentration ([K+]i) while elevating L-Type Ca2+ channel- and NMDA receptor-dependent Ca2+ oscillation frequencies. Both, [K+]i decrease and Ca2+ oscillation frequency increase were absent after pharmacological BK inhibition or in cells lacking BK. Our data suggest that L-Type- and NMDAR-dependent BK-mediated K+ outflow significantly contributes to hippocampal LTP, as well as learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Pham
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tamara Hussein
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dila Calis
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Helmut Bischof
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - David Skrabak
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melanie Cruz Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Selina Maier
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - David Spähn
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Kalina
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Simonsig
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Rebekka Ehinger
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Groschup
- Laboratory of Experimental Stroke Research, Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Plesnila
- Laboratory of Experimental Stroke Research, Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Ruth
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert Lukowski
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lucas Matt
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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3
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Ancatén-González C, Segura I, Alvarado-Sánchez R, Chávez AE, Latorre R. Ca 2+- and Voltage-Activated K + (BK) Channels in the Nervous System: One Gene, a Myriad of Physiological Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3407. [PMID: 36834817 PMCID: PMC9967218 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BK channels are large conductance potassium channels characterized by four pore-forming α subunits, often co-assembled with auxiliary β and γ subunits to regulate Ca2+ sensitivity, voltage dependence and gating properties. BK channels are abundantly expressed throughout the brain and in different compartments within a single neuron, including axons, synaptic terminals, dendritic arbors, and spines. Their activation produces a massive efflux of K+ ions that hyperpolarizes the cellular membrane. Together with their ability to detect changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration, BK channels control neuronal excitability and synaptic communication through diverse mechanisms. Moreover, increasing evidence indicates that dysfunction of BK channel-mediated effects on neuronal excitability and synaptic function has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including epilepsy, fragile X syndrome, mental retardation, and autism, as well as in motor and cognitive behavior. Here, we discuss current evidence highlighting the physiological importance of this ubiquitous channel in regulating brain function and its role in the pathophysiology of different neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ancatén-González
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias, Mención Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Ignacio Segura
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Rosangelina Alvarado-Sánchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Biofísica y Biología Computacional, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Andrés E. Chávez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
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4
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Wang ZW, Trussell LO, Vedantham K. Regulation of Neurotransmitter Release by K + Channels. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:305-331. [PMID: 37615872 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
K+ channels play potent roles in the process of neurotransmitter release by influencing the action potential waveform and modulating neuronal excitability and release probability. These diverse effects of K+ channel activation are ensured by the wide variety of K+ channel genes and their differential expression in different cell types. Accordingly, a variety of K+ channels have been implicated in regulating neurotransmitter release, including the Ca2+- and voltage-gated K+ channel Slo1 (also known as BK channel), voltage-gated K+ channels of the Kv3 (Shaw-type), Kv1 (Shaker-type), and Kv7 (KCNQ) families, G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels, and SLO-2 (a Ca2+-. Cl-, and voltage-gated K+ channel in C. elegans). These channels vary in their expression patterns, subcellular localization, and biophysical properties. Their roles in neurotransmitter release may also vary depending on the synapse and physiological or experimental conditions. This chapter summarizes key findings about the roles of K+ channels in regulating neurotransmitter release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Wen Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Laurence O Trussell
- Oregon Hearing Research Center & Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kiranmayi Vedantham
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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5
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Kassa M, Bradley J, Jalil A, Llano I. KCa1.1 channels contribute to optogenetically driven post-stimulation silencing in cerebellar molecular layer interneurons. J Gen Physiol 2022; 155:213661. [PMID: 36326690 PMCID: PMC9640226 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202113004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Using cell-attached recordings from molecular layer interneurons (MLI) of the cerebellar cortex of adult mice expressing channel rhodopsin 2, we show that wide-field optical activation induces an increase in firing rate during illumination and a firing pause when the illumination ends (post-stimulation silencing; PSS). Significant spike rate changes with respect to basal firing rate were observed for optical activations lasting 200 ms and 1 s as well as for 1 s long trains of 10 ms pulses at 50 Hz. For all conditions, the net effect of optical activation on the integrated spike rate is significantly reduced because of PSS. Three lines of evidence indicate that this PSS is due to intrinsic factors. Firstly, PSS is induced when the optical stimulation is restricted to a single MLI using a 405-nm laser delivering a diffraction-limited spot at the focal plane. Secondly, PSS is not affected by block of GABA-A or GABA-B receptors, ruling out synaptic interactions amongst MLIs. Thirdly, PSS is mimicked in whole-cell recording experiments by step depolarizations under current clamp. Activation of Ca-dependent K channels during the spike trains appears as a likely candidate to underlie PSS. Using immunocytochemistry, we find that one such channel type, KCa1.1, is present in the somato-dendritic and axonal compartments of MLIs. In cell-attached recordings, charybdotoxin and iberiotoxin significantly reduce the optically induced PSS, while TRAM-34 does not affect it, suggesting that KCa1.1 channels, but not KCa3.1 channels, contribute to PSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merouann Kassa
- Université Paris Cité, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Jonathan Bradley
- Institut de Biologie de l’Ecole Normale Superieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Superieure, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, INSERM, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, Paris, France
| | - Abdelali Jalil
- Université Paris Cité, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Isabel Llano
- Université Paris Cité, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
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6
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Gao K, Lin Z, Wen S, Jiang Y. Potassium channels and epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand 2022; 146:699-707. [PMID: 36225112 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
With the development and application of next-generation sequencing technology, the aetiological diagnosis of genetic epilepsy is rapidly becoming easier and less expensive. Additionally, there is a growing body of research into precision therapy based on genetic diagnosis. The numerous genes in the potassium ion channel family constitute the largest family of ion channels: this family is divided into different subtypes. Potassium ion channels play a crucial role in the electrical activity of neurons and are directly involved in the mechanism of epileptic seizures. In China, scientific research on genetic diagnosis and studies of precision therapy for genetic epilepsy are progressing rapidly. Many cases of epilepsy caused by mutation of potassium channel genes have been identified, and several potassium channel gene targets and drug candidates have been discovered. The purpose of this review is to briefly summarize the progress of research on the precise diagnosis and treatment of potassium ion channel-related genetic epilepsy, especially the research conducted in China. Here in, we review several large cohort studies on the genetic diagnosis of epilepsy in China in recent years, summarized the proportion of potassium channel genes. We focus on the progress of precison therapy on some hot epilepsy related potassium channel genes: KCNA1, KCNA2, KCNB1, KCNC1, KCND2, KCNQ2, KCNQ3, KCNMA1, and KCNT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis and Study on Pediatric Genetic Diseases, Beijing, China.,Children Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zehong Lin
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Sijia Wen
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis and Study on Pediatric Genetic Diseases, Beijing, China.,Children Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwu Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis and Study on Pediatric Genetic Diseases, Beijing, China.,Children Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
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7
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Park SM, Roache CE, Iffland PH, Moldenhauer HJ, Matychak KK, Plante AE, Lieberman AG, Crino PB, Meredith A. BK channel properties correlate with neurobehavioral severity in three KCNMA1-linked channelopathy mouse models. eLife 2022; 11:e77953. [PMID: 35819138 PMCID: PMC9275823 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1 forms the pore of BK K+ channels, which regulate neuronal and muscle excitability. Recently, genetic screening identified heterozygous KCNMA1 variants in a subset of patients with debilitating paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesia, presenting with or without epilepsy (PNKD3). However, the relevance of KCNMA1 mutations and the basis for clinical heterogeneity in PNKD3 has not been established. Here, we evaluate the relative severity of three KCNMA1 patient variants in BK channels, neurons, and mice. In heterologous cells, BKN999S and BKD434G channels displayed gain-of-function (GOF) properties, whereas BKH444Q channels showed loss-of-function (LOF) properties. The relative degree of channel activity was BKN999S > BKD434G>WT > BKH444Q. BK currents and action potential firing were increased, and seizure thresholds decreased, in Kcnma1N999S/WT and Kcnma1D434G/WT transgenic mice but not Kcnma1H444Q/WT mice. In a novel behavioral test for paroxysmal dyskinesia, the more severely affected Kcnma1N999S/WT mice became immobile after stress. This was abrogated by acute dextroamphetamine treatment, consistent with PNKD3-affected individuals. Homozygous Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice showed similar immobility, but in contrast, homozygous Kcnma1H444Q/H444Q mice displayed hyperkinetic behavior. These data establish the relative pathogenic potential of patient alleles as N999S>D434G>H444Q and validate Kcnma1N999S/WT mice as a model for PNKD3 with increased seizure propensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Mi Park
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Cooper E Roache
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Philip H Iffland
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Hans J Moldenhauer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Katia K Matychak
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Abby G Lieberman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Peter B Crino
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Andrea Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
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8
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Tazerart S, Blanchard MG, Miranda-Rottmann S, Mitchell DE, Navea Pina B, Thomas CI, Kamasawa N, Araya R. Selective activation of BK channels in small-headed dendritic spines suppresses excitatory postsynaptic potentials. J Physiol 2022; 600:2165-2187. [PMID: 35194785 DOI: 10.1113/jp282303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are the main receptacles of excitatory information in the brain. Their particular morphology, with a small head connected to the dendrite by a slender neck, has inspired theoretical and experimental work to understand how these structural features affect the processing, storage and integration of synaptic inputs in pyramidal neurons (PNs). The activation of glutamate receptors in spines triggers a large voltage change as well as calcium signals at the spine head. Thus, voltage-gated and calcium-activated potassium channels located in the spine head likely play a key role in synaptic transmission. Here we study the presence and function of large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channels in spines from layer 5 PNs. We found that BK channels are localized to dendrites and spines regardless of their size, but their activity can only be detected in spines with small head volumes (≤0.09 μm3 ), which reduces the amplitude of two-photon uncaging excitatory postsynaptic potentials recorded at the soma. In addition, we found that calcium signals in spines with small head volumes are significantly larger than those observed in spines with larger head volumes. In accordance with our experimental data, numerical simulations predict that synaptic inputs impinging onto spines with small head volumes generate voltage responses and calcium signals within the spine head itself that are significantly larger than those observed in spines with larger head volumes, which are sufficient to activate spine BK channels. These results show that BK channels are selectively activated in small-headed spines, suggesting a new level of dendritic spine-mediated regulation of synaptic processing, integration and plasticity in cortical PNs. KEY POINTS: BK channels are expressed in the visual cortex and layer 5 pyramidal neuron somata, dendrites and spines regardless of their size. BK channels are selectively activated in small-headed spines (≤0.09 μm3 ), which reduces the amplitude of two-photon (2P) uncaging excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) recorded at the soma. Two-photon imaging revealed that intracellular calcium responses in the head of 2P-activated spines are significantly larger in small-headed spines (≤0.09 μm3 ) than in spines with larger head volumes. In accordance with our experimental data, numerical simulations showed that synaptic inputs impinging onto spines with small head volumes (≤0.09 μm3 ) generate voltage responses and calcium signals within the spine head itself that are significantly larger than those observed in spines with larger head volumes, sufficient to activate spine BK channels and suppress EPSPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Tazerart
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Maxime G Blanchard
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Soledad Miranda-Rottmann
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Diana E Mitchell
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Bruno Navea Pina
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Connon I Thomas
- The Imaging Center and Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- The Imaging Center and Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Roberto Araya
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,The CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
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9
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Klemz A, Wildner F, Tütüncü E, Gerevich Z. Regulation of Hippocampal Gamma Oscillations by Modulation of Intrinsic Neuronal Excitability. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 15:778022. [PMID: 35177966 PMCID: PMC8845518 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.778022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ion channels activated around the subthreshold membrane potential determine the likelihood of neuronal firing in response to synaptic inputs, a process described as intrinsic neuronal excitability. Long-term plasticity of chemical synaptic transmission is traditionally considered the main cellular mechanism of information storage in the brain; however, voltage- and calcium-activated channels modulating the inputs or outputs of neurons are also subjects of plastic changes and play a major role in learning and memory formation. Gamma oscillations are associated with numerous higher cognitive functions such as learning and memory, but our knowledge of their dependence on intrinsic plasticity is by far limited. Here we investigated the roles of potassium and calcium channels activated at near subthreshold membrane potentials in cholinergically induced persistent gamma oscillations measured in the CA3 area of rat hippocampal slices. Among potassium channels, which are responsible for the afterhyperpolarization in CA3 pyramidal cells, we found that blockers of SK (KCa2) and KV7.2/7.3 (KCNQ2/3), but not the BK (KCa1.1) and IK (KCa3.1) channels, increased the power of gamma oscillations. On the contrary, activators of these channels had an attenuating effect without affecting the frequency. Pharmacological blockade of the low voltage-activated T-type calcium channels (CaV3.1–3.3) reduced gamma power and increased the oscillation peak frequency. Enhancement of these channels also inhibited the peak power without altering the frequency of the oscillations. The presented data suggest that voltage- and calcium-activated ion channels involved in intrinsic excitability strongly regulate the power of hippocampal gamma oscillations. Targeting these channels could represent a valuable pharmacological strategy against cognitive impairment.
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10
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Shah KR, Guan X, Yan J. Structural and Functional Coupling of Calcium-Activated BK Channels and Calcium-Permeable Channels Within Nanodomain Signaling Complexes. Front Physiol 2022; 12:796540. [PMID: 35095560 PMCID: PMC8795833 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.796540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biochemical and functional studies of ion channels have shown that many of these integral membrane proteins form macromolecular signaling complexes by physically associating with many other proteins. These macromolecular signaling complexes ensure specificity and proper rates of signal transduction. The large-conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel is dually activated by membrane depolarization and increases in intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i). The activation of BK channels results in a large K+ efflux and, consequently, rapid membrane repolarization and closing of the voltage-dependent Ca2+-permeable channels to limit further increases in [Ca2+]i. Therefore, BK channel-mediated K+ signaling is a negative feedback regulator of both membrane potential and [Ca2+]i and plays important roles in many physiological processes and diseases. However, the BK channel formed by the pore-forming and voltage- and Ca2+-sensing α subunit alone requires high [Ca2+]i levels for channel activation under physiological voltage conditions. Thus, most native BK channels are believed to co-localize with Ca2+-permeable channels within nanodomains (a few tens of nanometers in distance) to detect high levels of [Ca2+]i around the open pores of Ca2+-permeable channels. Over the last two decades, advancement in research on the BK channel’s coupling with Ca2+-permeable channels including recent reports involving NMDA receptors demonstrate exemplary models of nanodomain structural and functional coupling among ion channels for efficient signal transduction and negative feedback regulation. We hereby review our current understanding regarding the structural and functional coupling of BK channels with different Ca2+-permeable channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunal R. Shah
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Xin Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jiusheng Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Neuroscience Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Biochemistry and Cell Biology Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Jiusheng Yan,
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11
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Lin M, Mackie PM, Shaerzadeh F, Gamble-George J, Miller DR, Martyniuk CJ, Khoshbouei H. In Parkinson's patient-derived dopamine neurons, the triplication of α-synuclein locus induces distinctive firing pattern by impeding D2 receptor autoinhibition. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:107. [PMID: 34099060 PMCID: PMC8185945 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01203-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathophysiological changes in dopamine neurons precede their demise and contribute to the early phases of Parkinson's disease (PD). Intracellular pathological inclusions of the protein α-synuclein within dopaminergic neurons are a cardinal feature of PD, but the mechanisms by which α-synuclein contributes to dopaminergic neuron vulnerability remain unknown. The inaccessibility to diseased tissue has been a limitation in studying progression of pathophysiology prior to degeneration of dopamine neurons. To address these issues, we differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a PD patient carrying the α-synuclein triplication mutation (AST) and an unaffected first-degree relative (NAS) into dopaminergic neurons. In human-like dopamine neurons α-synuclein overexpression reduced the functional availability of D2 receptors, resulting in a stark dysregulation in firing activity, dopamine release, and neuronal morphology. We back-translated these findings into primary mouse neurons overexpressing α-synuclein and found a similar phenotype, supporting the causal role for α-synuclein. Importantly, application of D2 receptor agonist, quinpirole, restored the altered firing activity of AST-derived dopaminergic neurons to normal levels. These results provide novel insights into the pre-degenerative pathophysiological neuro-phenotype induced by α-synuclein overexpression and introduce a potential mechanism for the long-established clinical efficacy of D2 receptor agonists in the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lin
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Phillip M Mackie
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Fatima Shaerzadeh
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | | | - Douglas R Miller
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Chris J Martyniuk
- Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Habibeh Khoshbouei
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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12
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Nikitin ES, Vinogradova LV. Potassium channels as prominent targets and tools for the treatment of epilepsy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:223-235. [PMID: 33754930 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1908263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION K+ channels are of great interest to epilepsy research as mutations in their genes are found in humans with inherited epilepsy. At the level of cellular physiology, K+ channels control neuronal intrinsic excitability and are the main contributors to membrane repolarization of active neurons. Recently, a genetically modified voltage-dependent K+ channel has been patented as a remedy for epileptic seizures. AREAS COVERED We review the role of potassium channels in excitability, clinical and experimental evidence for the association of potassium channelopathies with epilepsy, the targeting of K+ channels by drugs, and perspectives of gene therapy in epilepsy with the expression of extra K+ channels in the brain. EXPERT OPINION Control over K+ conductance is of great potential benefit for the treatment of epilepsy. Nowadays, gene therapy affecting K+ channels is one of the most promising approaches to treat pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- E S Nikitin
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - L V Vinogradova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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13
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Pinto MJ, Tomé D, Almeida RD. The Ubiquitinated Axon: Local Control of Axon Development and Function by Ubiquitin. J Neurosci 2021; 41:2796-2813. [PMID: 33789876 PMCID: PMC8018891 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2251-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin tagging sets protein fate. With a wide range of possible patterns and reversibility, ubiquitination can assume many shapes to meet specific demands of a particular cell across time and space. In neurons, unique cells with functionally distinct axons and dendrites harboring dynamic synapses, the ubiquitin code is exploited at the height of its power. Indeed, wide expression of ubiquitination and proteasome machinery at synapses, a diverse brain ubiquitome, and the existence of ubiquitin-related neurodevelopmental diseases support a fundamental role of ubiquitin signaling in the developing and mature brain. While special attention has been given to dendritic ubiquitin-dependent control, how axonal biology is governed by this small but versatile molecule has been considerably less discussed. Herein, we set out to explore the ubiquitin-mediated spatiotemporal control of an axon's lifetime: from its differentiation and growth through presynaptic formation, function, and pruning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria J Pinto
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Diogo Tomé
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Ramiro D Almeida
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-504, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
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14
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Hunsberger MS, Mynlieff M. BK potassium currents contribute differently to action potential waveform and firing rate as rat hippocampal neurons mature in the first postnatal week. J Neurophysiol 2020; 124:703-714. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00711.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This work describes the early developmental trends of large-conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channel activity. Early developmental trends in expression of BK channels, both total expression and relative isoform expression, have been previously reported, but little work describes the effect of these changes in expression patterns on excitability. Here, we show that early changes in BK channel expression patterns lead to changes in the role of BK channels in determining the action potential waveform and neuronal excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Mynlieff
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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15
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Bailey CS, Moldenhauer HJ, Park SM, Keros S, Meredith AL. KCNMA1-linked channelopathy. J Gen Physiol 2019; 151:1173-1189. [PMID: 31427379 PMCID: PMC6785733 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bailey et al. review a new neurological channelopathy associated with KCNMA1, encoding the BK voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel. KCNMA1 encodes the pore-forming α subunit of the “Big K+” (BK) large conductance calcium and voltage-activated K+ channel. BK channels are widely distributed across tissues, including both excitable and nonexcitable cells. Expression levels are highest in brain and muscle, where BK channels are critical regulators of neuronal excitability and muscle contractility. A global deletion in mouse (KCNMA1−/−) is viable but exhibits pathophysiology in many organ systems. Yet despite the important roles in animal models, the consequences of dysfunctional BK channels in humans are not well characterized. Here, we summarize 16 rare KCNMA1 mutations identified in 37 patients dating back to 2005, with an array of clinically defined pathological phenotypes collectively referred to as “KCNMA1-linked channelopathy.” These mutations encompass gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function (LOF) alterations in BK channel activity, as well as several variants of unknown significance (VUS). Human KCNMA1 mutations are primarily associated with neurological conditions, including seizures, movement disorders, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Due to the recent identification of additional patients, the spectrum of symptoms associated with KCNMA1 mutations has expanded but remains primarily defined by brain and muscle dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests the functional BK channel alterations produced by different KCNMA1 alleles may associate with semi-distinct patient symptoms, such as paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia (PNKD) with GOF and ataxia with LOF. However, due to the de novo origins for the majority of KCNMA1 mutations identified to date and the phenotypic variability exhibited by patients, additional evidence is required to establish causality in most cases. The symptomatic picture developing from patients with KCNMA1-linked channelopathy highlights the importance of better understanding the roles BK channels play in regulating cell excitability. Establishing causality between KCNMA1-linked BK channel dysfunction and specific patient symptoms may reveal new treatment approaches with the potential to increase therapeutic efficacy over current standard regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole S Bailey
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hans J Moldenhauer
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Su Mi Park
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sotirios Keros
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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16
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Wong YL, Hysi P, Cheung G, Tedja M, Hoang QV, Tompson SWJ, Whisenhunt KN, Verhoeven V, Zhao W, Hess M, Wong CW, Kifley A, Hosoda Y, Haarman AEG, Hopf S, Laspas P, Sensaki S, Sim X, Miyake M, Tsujikawa A, Lamoureux E, Ohno-Matsui K, Nickels S, Mitchell P, Wong TY, Wang JJ, Hammond CJ, Barathi VA, Cheng CY, Yamashiro K, Young TL, Klaver CCW, Saw SM. Genetic variants linked to myopic macular degeneration in persons with high myopia: CREAM Consortium. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220143. [PMID: 31415580 PMCID: PMC6695159 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the roles of known myopia-associated genetic variants for development of myopic macular degeneration (MMD) in individuals with high myopia (HM), using case-control studies from the Consortium of Refractive Error and Myopia (CREAM). Methods A candidate gene approach tested 50 myopia-associated loci for association with HM and MMD, using meta-analyses of case-control studies comprising subjects of European and Asian ancestry aged 30 to 80 years from 10 studies. Fifty loci with the strongest associations with myopia were chosen from a previous published GWAS study. Highly myopic (spherical equivalent [SE] ≤ -5.0 diopters [D]) cases with MMD (N = 348), and two sets of controls were enrolled: (1) the first set included 16,275 emmetropes (SE ≤ -0.5 D); and (2) second set included 898 highly myopic subjects (SE ≤ -5.0 D) without MMD. MMD was classified based on the International photographic classification for pathologic myopia (META-PM). Results In the first analysis, comprising highly myopic cases with MMD (N = 348) versus emmetropic controls without MMD (N = 16,275), two SNPs were significantly associated with high myopia in adults with HM and MMD: (1) rs10824518 (P = 6.20E-07) in KCNMA1, which is highly expressed in human retinal and scleral tissues; and (2) rs524952 (P = 2.32E-16) near GJD2. In the second analysis, comprising highly myopic cases with MMD (N = 348) versus highly myopic controls without MMD (N = 898), none of the SNPs studied reached Bonferroni-corrected significance. Conclusions Of the 50 myopia-associated loci, we did not find any variant specifically associated with MMD, but the KCNMA1 and GJD2 loci were significantly associated with HM in highly myopic subjects with MMD, compared to emmetropes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee-Ling Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- R&D Vision Sciences AMERA, Essilor International, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pirro Hysi
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gemmy Cheung
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Milly Tedja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Quan V. Hoang
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Stuart W. J. Tompson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison WI, United States of America
| | - Kristina N. Whisenhunt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison WI, United States of America
| | - Virginie Verhoeven
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wanting Zhao
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Moritz Hess
- Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg—University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Chee-Wai Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Annette Kifley
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yoshikatsu Hosoda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Annechien E. G. Haarman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Hopf
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg—University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Panagiotis Laspas
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg—University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sonoko Sensaki
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xueling Sim
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Masahiro Miyake
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akitaka Tsujikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ecosse Lamoureux
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kyoko Ohno-Matsui
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Stefan Nickels
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg—University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Paul Mitchell
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tien-Yin Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Christopher J. Hammond
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Veluchamy A. Barathi
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ching-Yu Cheng
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kenji Yamashiro
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Otsu Red-Cross Hospital, Otsu, Japan
| | - Terri L. Young
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison WI, United States of America
| | - Caroline C. W. Klaver
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Seang-Mei Saw
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- * E-mail:
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17
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Sclip A, Acuna C, Luo F, Südhof TC. RIM-binding proteins recruit BK-channels to presynaptic release sites adjacent to voltage-gated Ca 2+-channels. EMBO J 2018; 37:embj.201798637. [PMID: 29967030 PMCID: PMC6092624 DOI: 10.15252/embj.201798637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The active zone of presynaptic nerve terminals organizes the neurotransmitter release machinery, thereby enabling fast Ca2+-triggered synaptic vesicle exocytosis. BK-channels are Ca2+-activated large-conductance K+-channels that require close proximity to Ca2+-channels for activation and control Ca2+-triggered neurotransmitter release by accelerating membrane repolarization during action potential firing. How BK-channels are recruited to presynaptic Ca2+-channels, however, is unknown. Here, we show that RBPs (for RIM-binding proteins), which are evolutionarily conserved active zone proteins containing SH3- and FN3-domains, directly bind to BK-channels. We find that RBPs interact with RIMs and Ca2+-channels via their SH3-domains, but to BK-channels via their FN3-domains. Deletion of RBPs in calyx of Held synapses decreased and decelerated presynaptic BK-currents and depleted BK-channels from active zones. Our data suggest that RBPs recruit BK-channels into a RIM-based macromolecular active zone complex that includes Ca2+-channels, synaptic vesicles, and the membrane fusion machinery, thereby enabling tight spatio-temporal coupling of Ca2+-influx to Ca2+-triggered neurotransmitter release in a presynaptic terminal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Sclip
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Claudio Acuna
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,CH Schaller Foundation and Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fujun Luo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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18
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Abstract
Mutations in the cereblon (CRBN) gene cause human intellectual disability, one of the most common cognitive disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms of CRBN-related intellectual disability remain poorly understood. We investigated the role of CRBN in synaptic function and animal behavior using male mouse and Drosophila models. Crbn knock-out (KO) mice showed normal brain and spine morphology as well as intact synaptic plasticity; however, they also exhibited decreases in synaptic transmission and presynaptic release probability exclusively in excitatory synapses. Presynaptic function was impaired not only by loss of CRBN expression, but also by expression of pathogenic CRBN mutants (human R419X mutant and Drosophila G552X mutant). We found that the BK channel blockers paxilline and iberiotoxin reversed this decrease in presynaptic release probability in Crbn KO mice. In addition, paxilline treatment also restored normal cognitive behavior in Crbn KO mice. These results strongly suggest that increased BK channel activity is the pathological mechanism of intellectual disability in CRBN mutations.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCereblon (CRBN), a well known target of the immunomodulatory drug thalidomide, was originally identified as a gene that causes human intellectual disability when mutated. However, the molecular mechanisms of CRBN-related intellectual disability remain poorly understood. Based on the idea that synaptic abnormalities are the most common factor in cognitive dysfunction, we monitored the synaptic structure and function of Crbn knock-out (KO) animals to identify the molecular mechanisms of intellectual disability. Here, we found that Crbn KO animals showed cognitive deficits caused by enhanced BK channel activity and reduced presynaptic glutamate release. Our findings suggest a physiological pathomechanism of the intellectual disability-related gene CRBN and will contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies for CRBN-related intellectual disability.
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19
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Irie T, Trussell LO. Double-Nanodomain Coupling of Calcium Channels, Ryanodine Receptors, and BK Channels Controls the Generation of Burst Firing. Neuron 2017; 96:856-870.e4. [PMID: 29144974 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Action potentials clustered into high-frequency bursts play distinct roles in neural computations. However, little is known about ionic currents that control the duration and probability of these bursts. We found that, in cartwheel inhibitory interneurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus, the likelihood of bursts and the interval between their spikelets were controlled by Ca2+ acting across two nanodomains, one between plasma membrane P/Q Ca2+ channels and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) ryanodine receptors and another between ryanodine receptors and large-conductance, voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels. Each spike triggered Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) from the ER immediately beneath somatic, but not axonal or dendritic, plasma membrane. Moreover, immunolabeling demonstrated close apposition of ryanodine receptors and BK channels. Double-nanodomain coupling between somatic plasma membrane and hypolemmal ER cisterns provides a unique mechanism for rapid control of action potentials on the millisecond timescale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiko Irie
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan.
| | - Laurence O Trussell
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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20
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Wang J, Yu S, Zhang Q, Chen Y, Bao X, Wu X. KCNMA1 mutation in children with paroxysmal dyskinesia and epilepsy: Case report and literature review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.3233/trd-170018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaping Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shujie Yu
- Department of Neurology, Harbin Children’s Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Qingping Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinhua Bao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiru Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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21
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Beining M, Mongiat LA, Schwarzacher SW, Cuntz H, Jedlicka P. T2N as a new tool for robust electrophysiological modeling demonstrated for mature and adult-born dentate granule cells. eLife 2017; 6:e26517. [PMID: 29165247 PMCID: PMC5737656 DOI: 10.7554/elife.26517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Compartmental models are the theoretical tool of choice for understanding single neuron computations. However, many models are incomplete, built ad hoc and require tuning for each novel condition rendering them of limited usability. Here, we present T2N, a powerful interface to control NEURON with Matlab and TREES toolbox, which supports generating models stable over a broad range of reconstructed and synthetic morphologies. We illustrate this for a novel, highly detailed active model of dentate granule cells (GCs) replicating a wide palette of experiments from various labs. By implementing known differences in ion channel composition and morphology, our model reproduces data from mouse or rat, mature or adult-born GCs as well as pharmacological interventions and epileptic conditions. This work sets a new benchmark for detailed compartmental modeling. T2N is suitable for creating robust models useful for large-scale networks that could lead to novel predictions. We discuss possible T2N application in degeneracy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Beining
- Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck SocietyFrankfurtGermany
- Frankfurt Institute for Advanced StudiesFrankfurtGermany
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience CenterGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
- Faculty of BiosciencesGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | - Lucas Alberto Mongiat
- Instituto de Investigación en Biodiversidad y MedioambienteUniversidad Nacional del Comahue-CONICETSan Carlos de BarilocheArgentina
| | | | - Hermann Cuntz
- Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck SocietyFrankfurtGermany
- Frankfurt Institute for Advanced StudiesFrankfurtGermany
| | - Peter Jedlicka
- Institute of Clinical Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience CenterGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
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22
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Whitmire LE, Ling L, Bugay V, Carver CM, Timilsina S, Chuang HH, Jaffe DB, Shapiro MS, Cavazos JE, Brenner R. Downregulation of KCNMB4 expression and changes in BK channel subtype in hippocampal granule neurons following seizure activity. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188064. [PMID: 29145442 PMCID: PMC5690595 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge is to understand maladaptive changes in ion channels that sets neurons on a course towards epilepsy development. Voltage- and calcium-activated K+ (BK) channels contribute to early spike timing in neurons, and studies indicate that the BK channel plays a pathological role in increasing excitability early after a seizure. Here, we have investigated changes in BK channels and their accessory β4 subunit (KCNMB4) in dentate gyrus (DG) granule neurons of the hippocampus, key neurons that regulate excitability of the hippocampus circuit. Two days after pilocarpine-induced seizures, we found that the predominant effect is a downregulation of the β4 accessory subunit mRNA. Consistent with reduced expression, single channel recording and pharmacology indicate a switch in the subtype of channels expressed; from iberiotoxin-resistant, type II BK channels (BK α/β4) that have higher channel open probability and slow gating, to iberiotoxin-sensitive type I channels (BK α alone) with low open probability and faster gating. The switch to a majority of type I channel expression following seizure activity is correlated with a loss of BK channel function on spike threshold while maintaining the channel’s contribution to increased early spike frequency. Using heterozygous β4 knockout mice, we find reduced expression is sufficient to increase seizure sensitivity. We conclude that seizure-induced downregulation of KCNMB4 is an activity dependent mechanism that increases the excitability of DG neurons. These novel findings indicate that BK channel subtypes are not only defined by cell-specific expression, but can also be plastic depending on the recent history of neuronal excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke E. Whitmire
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ling Ling
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Vladslav Bugay
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Chase M. Carver
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Santosh Timilsina
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Hui-Hsiu Chuang
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - David B. Jaffe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mark S. Shapiro
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jose E. Cavazos
- Neurology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Robert Brenner
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Pratt CP, Kuljis DA, Homanics GE, He J, Kolodieznyi D, Dudem S, Hollywood MA, Barth AL, Bruchez MP. Tagging of Endogenous BK Channels with a Fluorogen-Activating Peptide Reveals β4-Mediated Control of Channel Clustering in Cerebellum. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:337. [PMID: 29163049 PMCID: PMC5671578 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BK channels are critical regulators of neuronal activity, controlling firing, neurotransmitter release, cerebellar function, and BK channel mutations have been linked to seizure disorders. Modulation of BK channel gating is well characterized, regulated by accessory subunit interactions, intracellular signaling pathways, and membrane potential. In contrast, the role of intracellular trafficking mechanisms in controlling BK channel function, especially in live cells, has been less studied. Fluorogen-activating peptides (FAPs) are well-suited for trafficking and physiological studies due to the binding of malachite green (MG)-based dyes with sub-nanomolar affinity to the FAP, resulting in bright, photostable, far-red fluorescence. Cell-excluded MG dyes enable the selective tagging of surface protein and tracking through endocytic pathways. We used CRISPR to insert the FAP at the extracellular N-terminus of BKα in the first exon of its native locus, enabling regulation by the native promoter elements and tag incorporation into multiple splice isoforms. Motor coordination was found to be normal; however, BK channel expression seems to be reduced in some locations. Alternate start site selection or post-translational proteolytic processing resulted in incomplete FAP tagging of the BKα proteins in brain tissues. In Purkinje cell somata, FAP revealed BK channel clustering previously only observed by electron microscopy. Measurement of these clusters in β4+/- and β4-/- mice showed that puncta number and cluster fluorescence intensity on the soma are reduced in β4-/- knockout animals. This novel mouse line provides a versatile fluorescent platform for studying endogenous BK channels in living and fixed tissues. Future studies could apply this line to ex vivo neuronal cultures to study live-cell channel trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Pratt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Molecular Biosensor and Imaging Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Dika A Kuljis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gregg E Homanics
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jianjun He
- Molecular Biosensor and Imaging Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Dmytro Kolodieznyi
- Molecular Biosensor and Imaging Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Srikanth Dudem
- Smooth Muscle Research Centre, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Ireland
| | - Mark A Hollywood
- Smooth Muscle Research Centre, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Ireland
| | - Alison L Barth
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Marcel P Bruchez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Molecular Biosensor and Imaging Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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24
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Jiménez-Vargas JM, Possani LD, Luna-Ramírez K. Arthropod toxins acting on neuronal potassium channels. Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:139-160. [PMID: 28941737 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Arthropod venoms are a rich mixture of biologically active compounds exerting different physiological actions across diverse phyla and affecting multiple organ systems including the central nervous system. Venom compounds can inhibit or activate ion channels, receptors and transporters with high specificity and affinity providing essential insights into ion channel function. In this review, we focus on arthropod toxins (scorpions, spiders, bees and centipedes) acting on neuronal potassium channels. A brief description of the K+ channels classification and structure is included and a compendium of neuronal K+ channels and the arthropod toxins that modify them have been listed. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Juana María Jiménez-Vargas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico
| | - Karen Luna-Ramírez
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
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25
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Owen B, Reddy R, Grover LM. Nonspecific block of voltage-gated potassium channels has greater effect on distal schaffer collaterals than proximal schaffer collaterals during periods of high activity. Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/14/e13354. [PMID: 28747510 PMCID: PMC5532488 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies established different responses between proximal and distal portions of Schaffer collateral axons during high‐frequency and burst stimulation, with distal axons demonstrating biphasic changes in excitability (hyperexcitability followed by depression), but proximal axons showing only monophasic depression. Voltage‐dependent potassium (KV) channels are important determinants of axonal excitability, and block of KV channels can promote axon hyperexcitability. We therefore hypothesized that block of KV channels should lead to biphasic response changes in proximal Schaffer collaterals, like those seen in distal Schaffer collaterals. To test this hypothesis, we made extracellular recordings of distal Schaffer collateral responses in stratum radiatum of hippocampal area CA1 and proximal Schaffer collateral responses in stratum pyramidale of area CA3 during high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) at 100 Hz and burst stimulation at 200 msec intervals (5 Hz or theta frequency). We then applied a nonselective KV channel blocker, tetraethlylammonium (TEA, 10 mmol/L) or 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP, 100 μmol/L), and assessed effects on Schaffer collateral responses. Surprisingly, block of KV channels had little or no effect on proximal Schaffer collateral responses during high‐frequency or burst stimulation. In contrast, KV channel blockade caused more rapid depression of distal Schaffer collateral responses during both high‐frequency and burst stimulation. These findings indicate that KV channels are important for maintaining distal, but not proximal, Schaffer collateral excitability during period of sustained high activity. Differential sensitivity of distal versus proximal Schaffer collaterals to KV channel block may reflect differences in channel density, diversity, or subcellular localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Owen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, West Virginia, 25755
| | - Rishi Reddy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, West Virginia, 25755
| | - Lawrence M Grover
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marshall University School of Medicine, Huntington, West Virginia, 25755
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26
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Methamphetamine Regulation of Firing Activity of Dopamine Neurons. J Neurosci 2017; 36:10376-10391. [PMID: 27707972 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1392-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a substrate for the dopamine transporter that increases extracellular dopamine levels by competing with dopamine uptake and increasing reverse transport of dopamine via the transporter. METH has also been shown to alter the excitability of dopamine neurons. The mechanism of METH regulation of the intrinsic firing behaviors of dopamine neurons is less understood. Here we identified an unexpected and unique property of METH on the regulation of firing activity of mouse dopamine neurons. METH produced a transient augmentation of spontaneous spike activity of midbrain dopamine neurons that was followed by a progressive reduction of spontaneous spike activity. Inspection of action potential morphology revealed that METH increased the half-width and produced larger coefficients of variation of the interspike interval, suggesting that METH exposure affected the activity of voltage-dependent potassium channels in these neurons. Since METH has been shown to affect Ca2+ homeostasis, the unexpected findings that METH broadened the action potential and decreased the amplitude of afterhyperpolarization led us to ask whether METH alters the activity of Ca2+-activated potassium (BK) channels. First, we identified BK channels in dopamine neurons by their voltage dependence and their response to a BK channel blocker or opener. While METH suppressed the amplitude of BK channel-mediated unitary currents, the BK channel opener NS1619 attenuated the effects of METH on action potential broadening, afterhyperpolarization repression, and spontaneous spike activity reduction. Live-cell total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, electrophysiology, and biochemical analysis suggest METH exposure decreased the activity of BK channels by decreasing BK-α subunit levels at the plasma membrane. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Methamphetamine (METH) competes with dopamine uptake, increases dopamine efflux via the dopamine transporter, and affects the excitability of dopamine neurons. Here, we identified an unexpected property of METH on dopamine neuron firing activity. METH transiently increased the spontaneous spike activity of dopamine neurons followed by a progressive reduction of the spontaneous spike activity. METH broadened the action potentials, increased coefficients of variation of the interspike interval, and decreased the amplitude of afterhyperpolarization, which are consistent with changes in the activity of Ca2+-activated potassium (BK) channels. We found that METH decreased the activity of BK channels by stimulating BK-α subunit trafficking. Thus, METH modulation of dopamine neurotransmission and resulting behavioral responses is, in part, due to METH regulation of BK channel activity.
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27
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Carrisoza-Gaytán R, Wang L, Schreck C, Kleyman TR, Wang WH, Satlin LM. The mechanosensitive BKα/β1 channel localizes to cilia of principal cells in rabbit cortical collecting duct (CCD). Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2016; 312:F143-F156. [PMID: 27806944 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00256.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Within the CCD of the distal nephron of the rabbit, the BK (maxi K) channel mediates Ca2+- and/or stretch-dependent flow-induced K+ secretion (FIKS) and contributes to K+ adaptation in response to dietary K+ loading. An unresolved question is whether BK channels in intercalated cells (ICs) and/or principal cells (PCs) in the CCD mediate these K+ secretory processes. In support of a role for ICs in FIKS is the higher density of immunoreactive apical BKα (pore-forming subunit) and functional BK channel activity than detected in PCs, and an increase in IC BKα expression in response to a high-K+ diet. PCs possess a single apical cilium which has been proposed to serve as a mechanosensor; direct manipulation of cilia leads to increases in cell Ca2+ concentration, albeit of nonciliary origin. Immunoperfusion of isolated and fixed CCDs isolated from control K+-fed rabbits with channel subunit-specific antibodies revealed colocalization of immunodetectable BKα- and β1-subunits in cilia as well as on the apical membrane of cilia-expressing PCs. Ciliary BK channels were more easily detected in rabbits fed a low-K+ vs. high-K+ diet. Single-channel recordings of cilia revealed K+ channels with conductance and kinetics typical of the BK channel. The observations that 1) FIKS was preserved but 2) the high-amplitude Ca2+ peak elicited by flow was reduced in microperfused CCDs subject to pharmacological deciliation suggest that cilia BK channels do not contribute to K+ secretion in this segment, but that cilia serve as modulators of cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
| | - Carlos Schreck
- Servicio de Nefrologia-Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Thomas R Kleyman
- Departments of Medicine, Cell Biology, and Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Wen-Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
| | - Lisa M Satlin
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York;
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28
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Zhang J, Li M, Zhang Z, Zhu R, Olcese R, Stefani E, Toro L. The mitochondrial BK Ca channel cardiac interactome reveals BK Ca association with the mitochondrial import receptor subunit Tom22, and the adenine nucleotide translocator. Mitochondrion 2016; 33:84-101. [PMID: 27592226 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial BKCa channel, mitoBKCa, regulates mitochondria function in the heart but information on its protein partnerships in cardiac mitochondria is missing. A directed proteomic approach discovered the novel interaction of BKCa with Tom22, a component of the mitochondrion outer membrane import system, and the adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT). The expressed protein partners co-immunoprecipitated and co-segregated into mitochondrial fractions in HEK293T cells. The BKCa 50 amino acid splice insert, DEC, facilitated BKCa interaction with ANT. Further, BKCa transmembrane domain was required for the association with both Tom22 and ANT. The results serve as a working framework to understand mitoBKCa import and functional relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Molecular & Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Min Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhu Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ronghui Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Riccardo Olcese
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Enrico Stefani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ligia Toro
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Molecular & Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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29
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Tabarki B, AlMajhad N, AlHashem A, Shaheen R, Alkuraya FS. Homozygous KCNMA1 mutation as a cause of cerebellar atrophy, developmental delay and seizures. Hum Genet 2016; 135:1295-1298. [PMID: 27567911 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-016-1726-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Dominant gain-of-function mutations of the KCNMA1 gene, encoding the pore-forming subunit of the large conductance voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel, have been described in a few patients with the syndrome of epilepsy, paroxysmal dyskinesias and developmental delay. In this report, we describe the loss-of-function phenotype of this newly described disease gene. In two siblings from a consanguineous family with epilepsy, developmental delay and severe cerebellar atrophy, combined exome/autozygome analysis identified a homozygous frameshift duplication in KCNMA1 (c.2026dupT; p. (Tyr676 Leufs*7)) in both children. Our report defines a novel autosomal recessive KCNMA1-related epileptic phenotype that encompasses cerebellar atrophy without paroxysmal dyskinesia, and highlights the sensitivity of the developing brain to both increased and decreased activity of the KCNMA1-encoded channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Tabarki
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, PO Box 7889, Riyadh, 11159, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Nabil AlMajhad
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, PO Box 7889, Riyadh, 11159, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal AlHashem
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ranad Shaheen
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fowzan S Alkuraya
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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30
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Marrero HG, Treistman SN, Lemos JR. Ethanol Effect on BK Channels is Modulated by Magnesium. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 39:1671-9. [PMID: 26331878 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcoholics have been reported to have reduced levels of magnesium in both their extracellular and intracellular compartments. Calcium-dependent potassium channels (BK) are known to be one of ethanol (EtOH)'s better known molecular targets. METHODS Using outside-out patches from hippocampal neuronal cultures, we examined the consequences of altered intracellular Mg(2+) on the effects that EtOH has on BK channels. RESULTS We find that the effect of EtOH is bimodally influenced by the Mg(2+) concentration on the cytoplasmic side. More specifically, when internal Mg(2+) concentrations are ≤200 μM, EtOH decreases BK activity, whereas it increases activity when Mg(2+) is at 1 mM. Similar results are obtained when using patches from HEK cells expressing only the α-subunit of BK. When patches are made with the actin destabilizer cytochalasin D present on the cytoplasmic side, the potentiation caused by EtOH becomes independent of the Mg(2+) concentration. Furthermore, in the presence of the actin stabilizer phalloidin, EtOH causes inhibition even at Mg(2+) concentrations of 1 mM. CONCLUSIONS Internal Mg(2+) can modulate the EtOH effects on BK channels only when there is an intact, internal actin interaction with the channel, as is found at synapses. We propose that the EtOH-induced decrease in cytoplasmic Mg(2+) observed in frequent/chronic drinkers would decrease EtOH's actions on synaptic (e.g., actin-bound) BK channels, producing a form of molecular tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José R Lemos
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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31
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Cox DH. Modeling a Ca(2+) channel/BKCa channel complex at the single-complex level. Biophys J 2016; 107:2797-2814. [PMID: 25517147 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2014.10.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BKCa-channel activity often affects the firing properties of neurons, the shapes of neuronal action potentials (APs), and in some cases the extent of neurotransmitter release. It has become clear that BKCa channels often form complexes with voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (CaV channels) such that when a CaV channel is activated, the ensuing influx of Ca(2+) activates its closely associated BKCa channel. Thus, in modeling the electrical properties of neurons, it would be useful to have quantitative models of CaV/BKCa complexes. Furthermore, in a population of CaV/BKCa complexes, all BKCa channels are not exposed to the same Ca(2+) concentration at the same time. Thus, stochastic rather than deterministic models are required. To date, however, no such models have been described. Here, however, I present a stochastic model of a CaV2.1/BKCa(α-only) complex, as might be found in a central nerve terminal. The CaV2.1/BKCa model is based on kinetic modeling of its two component channels at physiological temperature. Surprisingly, The CaV2.1/BKCa model predicts that although the CaV channel will open nearly every time during a typical cortical AP, its associated BKCa channel is expected to open in only 30% of trials, and this percentage is very sensitive to the duration of the AP, the distance between the two channels in the complex, and the presence of fast internal Ca(2+) buffers. Also, the model predicts that the kinetics of the BKCa currents of a population of CaV2.1/BKCa complexes will not be limited by the kinetics of the CaV2.1 channel, and during a train of APs, the current response of the complex is expected to faithfully follow even very rapid trains. Aside from providing insight into how these complexes are likely to behave in vivo, the models presented here could also be of use more generally as components of higher-level models of neural function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H Cox
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
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32
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Abstract
Large conductance Ca(2+)- and voltage-activated K(+) (BK) channels are widely distributed in the postnatal central nervous system (CNS). BK channels play a pleiotropic role in regulating the activity of brain and spinal cord neural circuits by providing a negative feedback mechanism for local increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations. In neurons, they regulate the timing and duration of K(+) influx such that they can either increase or decrease firing depending on the cellular context, and they can suppress neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals. In addition, BK channels located in astrocytes and arterial myocytes modulate cerebral blood flow. Not surprisingly, both loss and gain of BK channel function have been associated with CNS disorders such as epilepsy, ataxia, mental retardation, and chronic pain. On the other hand, the neuroprotective role played by BK channels in a number of pathological situations could potentially be leveraged to correct neurological dysfunction.
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33
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Sesti F. Oxidation of K(+) Channels in Aging and Neurodegeneration. Aging Dis 2016; 7:130-5. [PMID: 27114846 PMCID: PMC4809605 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2015.0901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Reversible regulation of proteins by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an important mechanism of neuronal plasticity. In particular, ROS have been shown to act as modulatory molecules of ion channels-which are key to neuronal excitability-in several physiological processes. However ROS are also fundamental contributors to aging vulnerability. When the level of excess ROS increases in the cell during aging, DNA is damaged, proteins are oxidized, lipids are degraded and more ROS are produced, all culminating in significant cell injury. From this arose the idea that oxidation of ion channels by ROS is one of the culprits for neuronal aging. Aging-dependent oxidative modification of voltage-gated potassium (K(+)) channels was initially demonstrated in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and more recently in the mammalian brain. Specifically, oxidation of the delayed rectifier KCNB1 (Kv2.1) and of Ca(2+)- and voltage sensitive K(+) channels have been established suggesting that their redox sensitivity contributes to altered excitability, progression of healthy aging and of neurodegenerative disease. Here I discuss the implications that oxidation of K(+) channels by ROS may have for normal aging, as well as for neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Sesti
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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34
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The role of interneurons in cortical microcircuits is strongly influenced by their passive and active electrical properties. Although different types of interneurons exhibit unique electrophysiological properties recorded at the soma, it is not yet clear whether these differences are also manifested in other neuronal compartments. To address this question, we have used voltage-sensitive dye to image the propagation of action potentials into the fine collaterals of axons and dendrites in two of the largest cortical interneuron subtypes in the mouse: fast-spiking interneurons, which are typically basket or chandelier neurons; and somatostatin containing interneurons, which are typically regular spiking Martinotti cells. We found that fast-spiking and somatostatin-expressing interneurons differed in their electrophysiological characteristics along their entire dendrosomatoaxonal extent. The action potentials generated in the somata and axons, including axon collaterals, of somatostatin-expressing interneurons are significantly broader than those generated in the same compartments of fast-spiking inhibitory interneurons. In addition, action potentials back-propagated into the dendrites of somatostatin-expressing interneurons much more readily than fast-spiking interneurons. Pharmacological investigations suggested that axonal action potential repolarization in both cell types depends critically upon Kv1 channels, whereas the axonal and somatic action potentials of somatostatin-expressing interneurons also depend on BK Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels. These results indicate that the two broad classes of interneurons studied here have expressly different subcellular physiological properties, allowing them to perform unique computational roles in cortical circuit operations. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neurons in the cerebral cortex are of two major types: excitatory and inhibitory. The proper balance of excitation and inhibition in the brain is critical for its operation. Neurons contain three main compartments: dendritic, somatic, and axonal. How the neurons receive information, process it, and pass on new information depends upon how these three compartments operate. While it has long been assumed that axons are simply for conducting information from the cell body to the synapses, here we demonstrate that the axons of different types of interneurons, the inhibitory cells, possess differing electrophysiological properties. This result implies that differing types of interneurons perform different tasks in the cortex, not only through their anatomical connections, but also through how their axons operate.
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Patel R, Sesti F. Oxidation of ion channels in the aging nervous system. Brain Res 2016; 1639:174-85. [PMID: 26947620 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are integral membrane proteins that allow passive diffusion of ions across membranes. In neurons and in other excitable cells, the harmonious coordination between the numerous types of ion channels shape and propagate electrical signals. Increased accumulation of reactive oxidative species (ROS), and subsequent oxidation of proteins, including ion channels, is a hallmark feature of aging and may contribute to cell failure as a result. In this review we discuss the effects of ROS on three major types of ion channels of the central nervous system, namely the potassium (K(+)), calcium (Ca(2+)) and sodium (Na(+)) channels. We examine two general mechanisms through which ROS affect ion channels: via direct oxidation of specific residues and via indirect interference of pathways that regulate the channels. The overall status of the present studies indicates that the interaction of ion channels with ROS is multimodal and pervasive in the central nervous system and likely constitutes a general mechanism of aging susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Patel
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 683 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Federico Sesti
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 683 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
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Carrisoza-Gaytan R, Carattino MD, Kleyman TR, Satlin LM. An unexpected journey: conceptual evolution of mechanoregulated potassium transport in the distal nephron. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2015; 310:C243-59. [PMID: 26632600 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00328.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Flow-induced K secretion (FIKS) in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron (ASDN) is mediated by large-conductance, Ca(2+)/stretch-activated BK channels composed of pore-forming α-subunits (BKα) and accessory β-subunits. This channel also plays a critical role in the renal adaptation to dietary K loading. Within the ASDN, the cortical collecting duct (CCD) is a major site for the final renal regulation of K homeostasis. Principal cells in the ASDN possess a single apical cilium whereas the surfaces of adjacent intercalated cells, devoid of cilia, are decorated with abundant microvilli and microplicae. Increases in tubular (urinary) flow rate, induced by volume expansion, diuretics, or a high K diet, subject CCD cells to hydrodynamic forces (fluid shear stress, circumferential stretch, and drag/torque on apical cilia and presumably microvilli/microplicae) that are transduced into increases in principal (PC) and intercalated (IC) cell cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration that activate apical voltage-, stretch- and Ca(2+)-activated BK channels, which mediate FIKS. This review summarizes studies by ourselves and others that have led to the evolving picture that the BK channel is localized in a macromolecular complex at the apical membrane, composed of mechanosensitive apical Ca(2+) channels and a variety of kinases/phosphatases as well as other signaling molecules anchored to the cytoskeleton, and that an increase in tubular fluid flow rate leads to IC- and PC-specific responses determined, in large part, by the cell-specific composition of the BK channels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcelo D Carattino
- Renal-Electrolyte Division, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Thomas R Kleyman
- Renal-Electrolyte Division, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lisa M Satlin
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and
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BK Channels Localize to the Paranodal Junction and Regulate Action Potentials in Myelinated Axons of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells. J Neurosci 2015; 35:7082-94. [PMID: 25948259 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3778-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In myelinated axons, K(+) channels are clustered in distinct membrane domains to regulate action potentials (APs). At nodes of Ranvier, Kv7 channels are expressed with Na(+) channels, whereas Kv1 channels flank nodes at juxtaparanodes. Regulation of axonal APs by K(+) channels would be particularly important in fast-spiking projection neurons such as cerebellar Purkinje cells. Here, we show that BK/Slo1 channels are clustered at the paranodal junctions of myelinated Purkinje cell axons of rat and mouse. The paranodal junction is formed by a set of cell-adhesion molecules, including Caspr, between the node and juxtaparanodes in which it separates nodal from internodal membrane domains. Remarkably, only Purkinje cell axons have detectable paranodal BK channels, whose clustering requires the formation of the paranodal junction via Caspr. Thus, BK channels occupy this unique domain in Purkinje cell axons along with the other K(+) channel complexes at nodes and juxtaparanodes. To investigate the physiological role of novel paranodal BK channels, we examined the effect of BK channel blockers on antidromic AP conduction. We found that local application of blockers to the axon resulted in a significant increase in antidromic AP failure at frequencies above 100 Hz. We also found that Ni(2+) elicited a similar effect on APs, indicating the involvement of Ni(2+)-sensitive Ca(2+) channels. Furthermore, axonal application of BK channel blockers decreased the inhibitory synaptic response in the deep cerebellar nuclei. Thus, paranodal BK channels uniquely support high-fidelity firing of APs in myelinated Purkinje cell axons, thereby underpinning the output of the cerebellar cortex.
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Trimmer JS. Subcellular localization of K+ channels in mammalian brain neurons: remarkable precision in the midst of extraordinary complexity. Neuron 2015; 85:238-56. [PMID: 25611506 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.12.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Potassium channels (KChs) are the most diverse ion channels, in part due to extensive combinatorial assembly of a large number of principal and auxiliary subunits into an assortment of KCh complexes. Their structural and functional diversity allows KChs to play diverse roles in neuronal function. Localization of KChs within specialized neuronal compartments defines their physiological role and also fundamentally impacts their activity, due to localized exposure to diverse cellular determinants of channel function. Recent studies in mammalian brain reveal an exquisite refinement of KCh subcellular localization. This includes axonal KChs at the initial segment, and near/within nodes of Ranvier and presynaptic terminals, dendritic KChs found at sites reflecting specific synaptic input, and KChs defining novel neuronal compartments. Painting the remarkable diversity of KChs onto the complex architecture of mammalian neurons creates an elegant picture of electrical signal processing underlying the sophisticated function of individual neuronal compartments, and ultimately neurotransmission and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Trimmer
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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Archaerhodopsin voltage imaging: synaptic calcium and BK channels stabilize action potential repolarization at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. J Neurosci 2015; 34:14517-25. [PMID: 25355206 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2203-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The strength and dynamics of synaptic transmission are determined, in part, by the presynaptic action potential (AP) waveform at the nerve terminal. The ion channels that shape the synaptic AP waveform remain essentially unknown for all but a few large synapses amenable to electrophysiological interrogation. The Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a powerful system for studying synaptic biology, but it is not amenable to presynaptic electrophysiology. Here, we demonstrate that Archaerhodopsin can be used to quantitatively image AP waveforms at the Drosophila NMJ without disrupting baseline synaptic transmission or neuromuscular development. It is established that Shaker mutations cause a dramatic increase in neurotransmitter release, suggesting that Shaker is predominantly responsible for AP repolarization. Here we demonstrate that this effect is caused by a concomitant loss of both Shaker and slowpoke (slo) channel activity because of the low extracellular calcium concentrations (0.2-0.5 mM) used typically to assess synaptic transmission in Shaker. In contrast, at physiological extracellular calcium (1.5 mM), the role of Shaker during AP repolarization is limited. We then provide evidence that calcium influx through synaptic CaV2.1 channels and subsequent recruitment of Slo channel activity is important, in concert with Shaker, to ensure proper AP repolarization. Finally, we show that Slo assumes a dominant repolarizing role during repetitive nerve stimulation. During repetitive stimulation, Slo effectively compensates for Shaker channel inactivation, stabilizing AP repolarization and limiting neurotransmitter release. Thus, we have defined an essential role for Slo channels during synaptic AP repolarization and have revised our understanding of Shaker channels at this model synapse.
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40
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N'Gouemo P. BKCa channel dysfunction in neurological diseases. Front Physiol 2014; 5:373. [PMID: 25324781 PMCID: PMC4179377 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The large conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa, KCa1.1) are expressed in various brain neurons where they play important roles in regulating action potential duration, firing frequency and neurotransmitter release. Membrane potential depolarization and rising levels of intracellular Ca2+ gated BKCa channels, which in turn results in an outward K+ flux that re/hyperpolarizes the membrane. The sensitivity of BKCa channels to Ca2+ provides an important negative-feedback system for Ca2+ entry into brain neurons and suppresses repetitive firing. Thus, BKCa channel loss-of-function gives rise to neuronal hyperexcitability, which can lead to seizures. Evidence also indicates that BKCa channels can facilitate high-frequency firing (gain-of-function) in some brain neurons. Interestingly, both gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations of genes encoding for various BKCa channel subunits have been associated with the development of neuronal excitability disorders, such as seizure disorders. The role of BKCa channels in the etiology of some neurological diseases raises the possibility that these channels can be used as molecular targets to prevent and suppress disease phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper N'Gouemo
- Department of Pediatrics and Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center Washington, DC, USA
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Mancini M, Soldovieri MV, Gessner G, Wissuwa B, Barrese V, Boscia F, Secondo A, Miceli F, Franco C, Ambrosino P, Canzoniero LMT, Bauer M, Hoshi T, Heinemann SH, Taglialatela M. Critical role of large-conductance calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channels in leptin-induced neuroprotection of N-methyl-d-aspartate-exposed cortical neurons. Pharmacol Res 2014; 87:80-6. [PMID: 24973659 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2014.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, the neuroprotective effects of the adipokine leptin, and the molecular mechanism involved, have been studied in rat and mice cortical neurons exposed to N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) in vitro. In rat cortical neurons, leptin elicited neuroprotective effects against NMDA-induced cell death, which were concentration-dependent (10-100 ng/ml) and largest when the adipokine was preincubated for 2h before the neurotoxic stimulus. In both rat and mouse cortical neurons, leptin-induced neuroprotection was fully antagonized by paxilline (Pax, 0.01-1 μM) and iberiotoxin (Ibtx, 1-100 nM), with EC50s of 38 ± 10 nM and 5 ± 2 nM for Pax and Ibtx, respectively, close to those reported for Pax- and Ibtx-induced Ca(2+)- and voltage-activated K(+) channels (Slo1 BK channels) blockade; the BK channel opener NS1619 (1-30 μM) induced a concentration-dependent protection against NMDA-induced excitotoxicity. Moreover, cortical neurons from mice lacking one or both alleles coding for Slo1 BK channel pore-forming subunits were insensitive to leptin-induced neuroprotection. Finally, leptin exposure dose-dependently (10-100 ng/ml) increased intracellular Ca(2+) levels in rat cortical neurons. In conclusion, our results suggest that Slo1 BK channel activation following increases in intracellular Ca(2+) levels is a critical step for leptin-induced neuroprotection in NMDA-exposed cortical neurons in vitro, thus highlighting leptin-based intervention via BK channel activation as a potential strategy to counteract neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mancini
- Department of Medicine and Health Science, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy; Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy; Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University and Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Guido Gessner
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University and Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Bianka Wissuwa
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Vincenzo Barrese
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscia
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Secondo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Miceli
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Franco
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Ambrosino
- Department of Medicine and Health Science, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | | | - Michael Bauer
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Toshinori Hoshi
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Stefan H Heinemann
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University and Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Maurizio Taglialatela
- Department of Medicine and Health Science, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
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Li B, Jie W, Huang L, Wei P, Li S, Luo Z, Friedman AK, Meredith AL, Han MH, Zhu XH, Gao TM. Nuclear BK channels regulate gene expression via the control of nuclear calcium signaling. Nat Neurosci 2014; 17:1055-63. [PMID: 24952642 PMCID: PMC4115017 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are essential for the regulation of neuronal functions. The significance of plasma membrane, mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticulum and lysosomal ion channels in the regulation of Ca(2+) is well established. In contrast, surprisingly little is known about the function of ion channels on the nuclear envelope (NE). Here we demonstrate the presence of functional large-conductance, calcium-activated potassium channels (BK channels) on the NE of rodent hippocampal neurons. Functionally, blockade of nuclear BK channels (nBK channels) induces NE-derived Ca(2+) release, nucleoplasmic Ca(2+) elevation and cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB)-dependent transcription. More importantly, blockade of nBK channels regulates nuclear Ca(2+)-sensitive gene expression and promotes dendritic arborization in a nuclear Ca(2+)-dependent manner. These results suggest that the nBK channel functions as a molecular link between neuronal activity and nuclear Ca(2+) to convey signals from synapse to nucleus and is a new modulator, operating at the NE, of synaptic activity-dependent neuronal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boxing Li
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Jie
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianyan Huang
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Wei
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuji Li
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengyi Luo
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Allyson K Friedman
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Xin-Hong Zhu
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Ming Gao
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. [2] Key Laboratory of Neuroplasticity of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Neuronal expression of the intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channel KCa3.1 in the mammalian central nervous system. Pflugers Arch 2014; 467:311-28. [PMID: 24797146 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1523-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2013] [Revised: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The expression pattern and functional roles for calcium-activated potassium channels of the KCa2.x family and KCa1.1 have been extensively examined in central neurons. Recent work indicates that intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa3.1) are also expressed in central neurons of the cerebellum and spinal cord. The current study used immunocytochemistry and GFP linked to KCNN4 promoter activity in a transgenic mouse to determine the expression pattern of KCa3.1 channels in rat or mouse neocortex, hippocampus, thalamus, and cerebellum. KCa3.1 immunolabel and GFP expression were closely matched and detected in both excitatory and inhibitory cells of all regions examined. KCa3.1 immunolabel was localized primarily to the somatic region of excitatory cells in cortical structures but at the soma and over longer segments of dendrites of cells in deep cerebellar nuclei. More extensive labeling was apparent for inhibitory cells at the somatic and dendritic level with no detectable label associated with axon tracts or regions of intense synaptic innervation. The data indicate that KCa3.1 channels are expressed in the CNS with a differential pattern of distribution between cells, suggesting important functional roles for these calcium-activated potassium channels in regulating the excitability of central neurons.
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44
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Large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels: their expression and modulation of glutamate release from nerve terminals isolated from rat trigeminal caudal nucleus and cerebral cortex. Neurochem Res 2014; 39:901-10. [PMID: 24667981 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1287-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Large conductance, calcium-activated potassium channels [big potassium (BK) channel] consist of a tetramer of pore-forming α-subunit and distinct accessory β-subunits (β1-4) that modify the channel's properties. In this study, we analyzed the effects of BK channel activators and blockers on glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release from synaptosomes isolated from the cerebral cortices or trigeminal caudal nuclei (TCN) of rats. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to characterize BK channel α and β(1-4) subunit expression in the cortex and in the trigeminal ganglia (TG), whose neurons project primary terminal afferents into the TCN. Immunocytochemistry was used to localize these subunits on cortical and TCN synaptosomes. The BK channels regulating [(3)H]D-aspartate release from primary afferent nerve terminals projecting into the TCN displayed limited sensitivity to iberiotoxin, whereas those expressed on cortical synaptosomes were highly sensitive to this toxin. BK channels did not appear to be present on GABAergic nerve terminals from the TCN since [(3)H]-γ-aminobutyric acid release in this model was unaffected by BK channel activators or blockers. Gene expression studies revealed expression levels of the α subunit in the TG that were only 31.2 ± 2.1% of those found in cortical tissues. The β4 subunit was the accessory subunit expressed most abundantly in both the cortex and TG. Levels of β1 and β2 were low in both these areas although β2 expression in the TG was higher than that found in the cortex. Immunocytochemistry experiments showed that co-localization of α and β4 subunits (the accessory subunit most abundantly expressed in both brain areas) was more common in TCN synaptosomes than in cortical synaptosomes. On the basis of these findings, it is reasonable to hypothesize that BK channels expressed on glutamatergic terminals in the TCN and cortex have distinct pharmacological profiles, which probably reflect different α and β subunit combinations. Channels in the cortex seem to be composed mainly of α subunits and to a lesser degree by α and β4 subunits, whereas in the TG the α + β4 combination seems to prevail (although α and/or α + β2 channels cannot be excluded). In light of the BK channels' selective control of excitatory transmission and their pharmacological diversity, their effects on primary glutamatergic afferents projecting to TCN represent a potential target for drug therapy of migraines and other types of orofacial pain.
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Speca DJ, Ogata G, Mandikian D, Bishop HI, Wiler SW, Eum K, Wenzel HJ, Doisy ET, Matt L, Campi KL, Golub MS, Nerbonne JM, Hell JW, Trainor BC, Sack JT, Schwartzkroin PA, Trimmer JS. Deletion of the Kv2.1 delayed rectifier potassium channel leads to neuronal and behavioral hyperexcitability. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2014; 13:394-408. [PMID: 24494598 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Revised: 12/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The Kv2.1 delayed rectifier potassium channel exhibits high-level expression in both principal and inhibitory neurons throughout the central nervous system, including prominent expression in hippocampal neurons. Studies of in vitro preparations suggest that Kv2.1 is a key yet conditional regulator of intrinsic neuronal excitability, mediated by changes in Kv2.1 expression, localization and function via activity-dependent regulation of Kv2.1 phosphorylation. Here we identify neurological and behavioral deficits in mutant (Kv2.1(-/-) ) mice lacking this channel. Kv2.1(-/-) mice have grossly normal characteristics. No impairment in vision or motor coordination was apparent, although Kv2.1(-/-) mice exhibit reduced body weight. The anatomic structure and expression of related Kv channels in the brains of Kv2.1(-/-) mice appear unchanged. Delayed rectifier potassium current is diminished in hippocampal neurons cultured from Kv2.1(-/-) animals. Field recordings from hippocampal slices of Kv2.1(-/-) mice reveal hyperexcitability in response to the convulsant bicuculline, and epileptiform activity in response to stimulation. In Kv2.1(-/-) mice, long-term potentiation at the Schaffer collateral - CA1 synapse is decreased. Kv2.1(-/-) mice are strikingly hyperactive, and exhibit defects in spatial learning, failing to improve performance in a Morris Water Maze task. Kv2.1(-/-) mice are hypersensitive to the effects of the convulsants flurothyl and pilocarpine, consistent with a role for Kv2.1 as a conditional suppressor of neuronal activity. Although not prone to spontaneous seizures, Kv2.1(-/-) mice exhibit accelerated seizure progression. Together, these findings suggest homeostatic suppression of elevated neuronal activity by Kv2.1 plays a central role in regulating neuronal network function.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Speca
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, College of Biological Sciences
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Savina TA, Levin SG, Poletaeva II, Fedotova IB, Shchipakina TG. Audiogenic kindling changes the subunit composition of BK-channels in dentate gyrus of Krushinskii-Molodkina rats. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) SUPPLEMENT SERIES A: MEMBRANE AND CELL BIOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990747813050164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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47
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Brager DH, Johnston D. Channelopathies and dendritic dysfunction in fragile X syndrome. Brain Res Bull 2014; 103:11-7. [PMID: 24462643 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic spine abnormalities and the metabotropic glutamate receptor theory put the focus squarely on synapses and protein synthesis as the cellular locus of fragile X syndrome. Synapses however, are only partly responsible for information processing in neuronal networks. Neurotransmitter triggered excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) are shaped and integrated by dendritic voltage-gated ion channels. These EPSPs, and in some cases the resultant dendritic spikes, are further modified by dendritic voltage-gated ion channels as they propagate to the soma. If the resultant somatic depolarization is large enough, action potential(s) will be triggered and propagate both orthodromically down the axon, where it may trigger neurotransmitter release, and antidromically back into the dendritic tree, where it can activate and modify dendritic voltage-gated and receptor activated ion channels. Several channelopathies, both soma-dendritic (L-type calcium channels, Slack potassium channels, h-channels, A-type potassium channels) and axo-somatic (BK channels and delayed rectifier potassium channels) were identified in the fmr1-/y mouse model of fragile X syndrome. Pathological function of these channels will strongly influence the excitability of individual neurons as well as overall network function. In this chapter we discuss the role of voltage-gated ion channels in neuronal processing and describe how identified channelopathies in models of fragile X syndrome may play a role in dendritic pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darrin H Brager
- Center for Learning and Memory, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| | - Daniel Johnston
- Center for Learning and Memory, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
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Typlt M, Mirkowski M, Azzopardi E, Ruettiger L, Ruth P, Schmid S. Mice with deficient BK channel function show impaired prepulse inhibition and spatial learning, but normal working and spatial reference memory. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81270. [PMID: 24303038 PMCID: PMC3841135 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic variations in the large-conductance, voltage- and calcium activated potassium channels (BK channels) have been recently implicated in mental retardation, autism and schizophrenia which all come along with severe cognitive impairments. In the present study we investigate the effects of functional BK channel deletion on cognition using a genetic mouse model with a knock-out of the gene for the pore forming α-subunit of the channel. We tested the F1 generation of a hybrid SV129/C57BL6 mouse line in which the slo1 gene was deleted in both parent strains. We first evaluated hearing and motor function to establish the suitability of this model for cognitive testing. Auditory brain stem responses to click stimuli showed no threshold differences between knockout mice and their wild-type littermates. Despite of muscular tremor, reduced grip force, and impaired gait, knockout mice exhibited normal locomotion. These findings allowed for testing of sensorimotor gating using the acoustic startle reflex, as well as of working memory, spatial learning and memory in the Y-maze and the Morris water maze, respectively. Prepulse inhibition on the first day of testing was normal, but the knockout mice did not improve over the days of testing as their wild-type littermates did. Spontaneous alternation in the y-maze was normal as well, suggesting that the BK channel knock-out does not impair working memory. In the Morris water maze knock-out mice showed significantly slower acquisition of the task, but normal memory once the task was learned. Thus, we propose a crucial role of the BK channels in learning, but not in memory storage or recollection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marei Typlt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Magdalena Mirkowski
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erin Azzopardi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lukas Ruettiger
- Hearing Research Center, UniversitätTübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Ruth
- Pharmakologie, Toxikologie und Klinische Pharmazie, Institut für Pharmazie, UniversitätTübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Ion channels and transporters are expressed in every living cell, where they participate in controlling a plethora of biological processes and physiological functions, such as excitation of cells in response to stimulation, electrical activities of cells, excitation-contraction coupling, cellular osmolarity, and even cell growth and death. Alterations of ion channels/transporters can have profound impacts on the cellular physiology associated with these proteins. Expression of ion channels/transporters is tightly regulated and expression deregulation can trigger abnormal processes, leading to pathogenesis, the channelopathies. While transcription factors play a critical role in controlling the transcriptome of ion channels/transporters at the transcriptional level by acting on the 5'-flanking region of the genes, microribonucleic acids (miRNAs), a newly discovered class of regulators in the gene network, are also crucial for expression regulation at the posttranscriptional level through binding to the 3'untranslated region of the genes. These small noncoding RNAs fine tune expression of genes involved in a wide variety of cellular processes. Recent studies revealed the role of miRNAs in regulating expression of ion channels/transporters and the associated physiological functions. miRNAs can target ion channel genes to alter cardiac excitability (conduction, repolarization, and automaticity) and affect arrhythmogenic potential of heart. They can modulate circadian rhythm, pain threshold, neuroadaptation to alcohol, brain edema, etc., through targeting ion channel genes in the neuronal systems. miRNAs can also control cell growth and tumorigenesis by acting on the relevant ion channel genes. Future studies are expected to rapidly increase to unravel a new repertoire of ion channels/transporters for miRNA regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguo Wang
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, People's Republic of China.
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D'Adamo MC, Catacuzzeno L, Di Giovanni G, Franciolini F, Pessia M. K(+) channelepsy: progress in the neurobiology of potassium channels and epilepsy. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:134. [PMID: 24062639 PMCID: PMC3772396 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
K(+) channels are important determinants of seizure susceptibility. These membrane proteins, encoded by more than 70 genes, make the largest group of ion channels that fine-tune the electrical activity of neuronal and non-neuronal cells in the brain. Their ubiquity and extremely high genetic and functional diversity, unmatched by any other ion channel type, place K(+) channels as primary targets of genetic variations or perturbations in K(+)-dependent homeostasis, even in the absence of a primary channel defect. It is therefore not surprising that numerous inherited or acquired K(+) channels dysfunctions have been associated with several neurologic syndromes, including epilepsy, which often generate confusion in the classification of the associated diseases. Therefore, we propose to name the K(+) channels defects underlying distinct epilepsies as "K(+) channelepsies," and introduce a new nomenclature (e.g., Kx.y-channelepsy), following the widely used K(+) channel classification, which could be also adopted to easily identify other channelopathies involving Na(+) (e.g., Nav x.y-phenotype), Ca(2+) (e.g., Cav x.y-phenotype), and Cl(-) channels. Furthermore, we discuss novel genetic defects in K(+) channels and associated proteins that underlie distinct epileptic phenotypes in humans, and analyze critically the recent progress in the neurobiology of this disease that has also been provided by investigations on valuable animal models of epilepsy. The abundant and varied lines of evidence discussed here strongly foster assessments for variations in genes encoding for K(+) channels and associated proteins in patients with idiopathic epilepsy, provide new avenues for future investigations, and highlight these proteins as critical pharmacological targets.
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Key Words
- Potassium channels: [Kv1, Kv2, Kv3, Kv4, Kv8, Kv11(HERG), KCa1.1, Kvβ1, Kvβ2, KChIP LGI1, Kir1-Kir7 (GIRK, KATP)]
- autism–epilepsy
- channelopathies
- temporal lobe epilepsy
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina D'Adamo
- Faculty of Medicine, Section of Human Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy ; Istituto Euro Mediterraneo di Scienza e Tecnologia, IEMEST Palermo, Italy
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