1
|
Lee HL, Chang PC, Wo HT, Liu HT, Wen MS, Chou CC. Beneficial Electrophysiological Effects of Rotigaptide Are Unable to Suppress Therapeutic Hypothermia-Provoked Ventricular Fibrillation in Failing Rabbit Hearts With Acute Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury. Front Physiol 2021; 12:726389. [PMID: 34588996 PMCID: PMC8473906 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.726389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Whether therapeutic hypothermia (TH) is proarrhythmic in preexisting failing hearts with acute ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury is unknown. Additionally, the effectiveness of rotigaptide on improving conduction slowing in hearts with IR injury is ambiguous. We investigated the electrophysiological effects of TH and rotigaptide in failing rabbit hearts with acute IR injury and determined the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods and Results: Heart failure was induced by right ventricular pacing (320 beats/min, 4 weeks). Rabbits with pacing-induced heart failure were randomly divided into TH (n = 14) and non-TH (n = 7) groups. The IR rabbit model was created by ligating the coronary artery for 60 min, followed by reperfusion for 15 min in vivo. Then, the hearts were excised quickly and Langendorff-perfused for simultaneous voltage and intracellular Ca2+ (Cai) optical mapping. Electrophysiological studies were conducted, and vulnerability to ventricular fibrillation (VF) was evaluated using pacing protocols. TH (33°C) was instituted after baseline studies, and electrophysiological studies were repeated. Rotigaptide (300 nM) was infused for 20 min, and electrophysiological studies were repeated under TH. Cardiac tissues were sampled for Western blotting. TH increased the dispersion and beat-to-beat variability of action potential duration (APD), aggravated conduction slowing, and prolonged Cai decay to facilitate spatially discordant alternans (SDA) and VF induction. Rotigaptide reduced the dispersion and beat-to-beat variability of APD and improved slowed conduction to defer the onset of arrhythmogenic SDA by dynamic pacing and elevate the pacing threshold of VF during TH. However, the effect of rotigaptide on TH-enhanced VF inducibility was statistically insignificant. TH attenuated IR-induced dysregulation of protein expression, but its functional role remained uncertain. Conclusion: Therapeutic hypothermia is proarrhythmic in failing hearts with acute IR injury. Rotigaptide improves TH-induced APD dispersion and beat-to-beat variability and conduction disturbance to defer the onset of arrhythmogenic SDA and elevate the VF threshold by dynamic pacing, but these beneficial electrophysiological effects are unable to suppress TH-enhanced VF inducibility significantly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ling Lee
- Department of Anesthesia, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Chang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ta Wo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Tien Liu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Shien Wen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Chuan Chou
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dietrichs ES, McGlynn K, Allan A, Connolly A, Bishop M, Burton F, Kettlewell S, Myles R, Tveita T, Smith GL. Moderate but not severe hypothermia causes pro-arrhythmic changes in cardiac electrophysiology. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 116:2081-2090. [PMID: 32031595 PMCID: PMC7584464 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Treatment of arrhythmias evoked by hypothermia/rewarming remains challenging, and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This in vitro experimental study assessed cardiac electrophysiology in isolated rabbit hearts at temperatures occurring in therapeutic and accidental hypothermia. Methods and results Detailed ECG, surface electrogram, and panoramic optical mapping were performed in isolated rabbit hearts cooled to moderate (31°C) and severe (17°C) hypothermia. Ventricular activation was unchanged at 31°C while action potential duration (APD) was significantly prolonged (176.9 ± 4.2 ms vs. 241.0 ± 2.9 ms, P < 0.05), as was ventricular repolarization. At 17°C, there were proportionally similar delays in both activation and repolarization. These changes were reflected in the QRS and QT intervals of ECG recordings. Ventricular fibrillation threshold was significantly reduced at 31°C (16.3 ± 3.1 vs. 35 ± 3.5 mA, P < 0.05) but increased at 17°C (64.2 ± 9.9, P < 0.05). At 31°C, transverse conduction was relatively unchanged by cooling compared to longitudinal conduction, but at 17°C both transverse and longitudinal conduction were proportionately reduced to a similar extent. The gap junction uncoupler heptanol had a larger relative effect on transverse than longitudinal conduction and was able to restore the transverse/longitudinal conduction ratio, returning ventricular fibrillation threshold to baseline values (16.3 ± 3.1 vs. 36.3 ± 4.3 mA, P < 0.05) at 31°C. Rewarming to 37°C restored the majority of the electrophysiological parameters. Conclusions Moderate hypothermia does not significantly change ventricular conduction time but prolongs repolarization and is pro-arrhythmic. Further cooling to severe hypothermia causes parallel changes in ventricular activation and repolarization, changes which are anti-arrhythmic. Therefore, relative changes in QRS and QT intervals (QR/QTc) emerge as an ECG-biomarker of pro-arrhythmic activity. Risk for ventricular fibrillation appears to be linked to the relatively low temperature sensitivity of ventricular transmural conduction, a conclusion supported by the anti-arrhythmic effect of heptanol at 31°C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik S Dietrichs
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medical Biology, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway.,Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Norway.,Divisions of Diagnostic Services and Surgical Medicine and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Karen McGlynn
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Andrew Allan
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Adam Connolly
- Division of Imaging Sciences & Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Kings College London, UK
| | - Martin Bishop
- Division of Imaging Sciences & Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Kings College London, UK
| | - Francis Burton
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Sarah Kettlewell
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Rachel Myles
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Torkjel Tveita
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Norway.,Divisions of Diagnostic Services and Surgical Medicine and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Godfrey L Smith
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Boyle PM, Yu J, Klimas A, Williams JC, Trayanova NA, Entcheva E. OptoGap is an optogenetics-enabled assay for quantification of cell-cell coupling in multicellular cardiac tissue. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9310. [PMID: 33927252 PMCID: PMC8085001 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88573-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular electrical coupling is an essential means of communication between cells. It is important to obtain quantitative knowledge of such coupling between cardiomyocytes and non-excitable cells when, for example, pathological electrical coupling between myofibroblasts and cardiomyocytes yields increased arrhythmia risk or during the integration of donor (e.g., cardiac progenitor) cells with native cardiomyocytes in cell-therapy approaches. Currently, there is no direct method for assessing heterocellular coupling within multicellular tissue. Here we demonstrate experimentally and computationally a new contactless assay for electrical coupling, OptoGap, based on selective illumination of inexcitable cells that express optogenetic actuators and optical sensing of the response of coupled excitable cells (e.g., cardiomyocytes) that are light-insensitive. Cell-cell coupling is quantified by the energy required to elicit an action potential via junctional current from the light-stimulated cell(s). The proposed technique is experimentally validated against the standard indirect approach, GapFRAP, using light-sensitive cardiac fibroblasts and non-transformed cardiomyocytes in a two-dimensional setting. Its potential applicability to the complex three-dimensional setting of the native heart is corroborated by computational modelling and proper calibration. Lastly, the sensitivity of OptoGap to intrinsic cell-scale excitability is robustly characterized via computational analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Boyle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jinzhu Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Aleksandra Klimas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, 800 22nd Street NW, Suite 5000, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - John C Williams
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Natalia A Trayanova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Alliance for Cardiovascular Diagnostic and Treatment Innovation, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, 800 22nd Street NW, Suite 5000, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Park DS, Shekhar A, Santucci J, Redel-Traub G, Solinas S, Mintz S, Lin X, Chang EW, Narke D, Xia Y, Goldfarb M, Fishman GI. Ionic Mechanisms of Impulse Propagation Failure in the FHF2-Deficient Heart. Circ Res 2020; 127:1536-1548. [PMID: 32962518 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.120.317349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE FHFs (fibroblast growth factor homologous factors) are key regulators of sodium channel (NaV) inactivation. Mutations in these critical proteins have been implicated in human diseases including Brugada syndrome, idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias, and epileptic encephalopathy. The underlying ionic mechanisms by which reduced Nav availability in Fhf2 knockout (Fhf2KO) mice predisposes to abnormal excitability at the tissue level are not well defined. OBJECTIVE Using animal models and theoretical multicellular linear strands, we examined how FHF2 orchestrates the interdependency of sodium, calcium, and gap junctional conductances to safeguard cardiac conduction. METHODS AND RESULTS Fhf2KO mice were challenged by reducing calcium conductance (gCaV) using verapamil or by reducing gap junctional conductance (Gj) using carbenoxolone or by backcrossing into a cardiomyocyte-specific Cx43 (connexin 43) heterozygous background. All conditions produced conduction block in Fhf2KO mice, with Fhf2 wild-type (Fhf2WT) mice showing normal impulse propagation. To explore the ionic mechanisms of block in Fhf2KO hearts, multicellular linear strand models incorporating FHF2-deficient Nav inactivation properties were constructed and faithfully recapitulated conduction abnormalities seen in mutant hearts. The mechanisms of conduction block in mutant strands with reduced gCaV or diminished Gj are very different. Enhanced Nav inactivation due to FHF2 deficiency shifts dependence onto calcium current (ICa) to sustain electrotonic driving force, axial current flow, and action potential (AP) generation from cell-to-cell. In the setting of diminished Gj, slower charging time from upstream cells conspires with accelerated Nav inactivation in mutant strands to prevent sufficient downstream cell charging for AP propagation. CONCLUSIONS FHF2-dependent effects on Nav inactivation ensure adequate sodium current (INa) reserve to safeguard against numerous threats to reliable cardiac impulse propagation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David S Park
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Akshay Shekhar
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine.,Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY (A.S.)
| | - John Santucci
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Gabriel Redel-Traub
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Sergio Solinas
- University of Zurich, Institute of Neuroinformatics, Switzerland (S.S.).,Hunter College of City University, Department of Biological Sciences, New York (S.S., M.G.)
| | - Shana Mintz
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Xianming Lin
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Ernest Whanwook Chang
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Deven Narke
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Yuhe Xia
- Department of Population Health (Y.X.), New York University School of Medicine
| | - Mitchell Goldfarb
- Hunter College of City University, Department of Biological Sciences, New York (S.S., M.G.)
| | - Glenn I Fishman
- The Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology (D.S.P., A.S., J.S., G.R.-T., S.M., X.L., E.W.C., D.N., G.I.F.), New York University School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Broncel A, Bocian R, Kłos-Wojtczak P, Konopacki J. Hippocampal theta rhythm induced by vagal nerve stimulation: The effect of modulation of electrical coupling. Brain Res Bull 2019; 152:236-245. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
6
|
Valiunas V, Brink PR, White TW. Lens Connexin Channels Have Differential Permeability to the Second Messenger cAMP. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3821-3829. [PMID: 31529078 PMCID: PMC6750889 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Gap junction channels exhibit connexin specific biophysical properties, including the selective intercellular passage of larger solutes, such as second messengers. Here, we have examined the cyclic nucleotide permeability of the lens connexins, which could influence events like epithelial cell division and differentiation. Methods We compared the cAMP permeability through channels composed of Cx43, Cx46, or Cx50 using simultaneous measurements of junctional conductance and intercellular transfer. For cAMP detection, the recipient cells were transfected with a cAMP sensor gene, the cyclic nucleotide-modulated channel from sea urchin sperm (SpIH). cAMP was introduced via patch pipette into the cell of the pair that did not express SpIH. SpIH-derived currents were recorded from the other cell of a pair that expressed SpIH. cAMP permeability was also directly visualized in transfected cells using a chemically modified fluorescent form of the molecule. Results cAMP transfer was observed for homotypic Cx43 channels over a wide range of junctional conductance. Homotypic Cx46 channels also transferred cAMP, but permeability was reduced compared with Cx43. In contrast, homotypic Cx50 channels exhibited extremely low permeability to cAMP, when compared with either Cx43, or Cx46. Conclusions These data show that channels made from Cx43 and Cx46 result in the intercellular delivery of cAMP in sufficient quantity to activate cyclic nucleotide-modulated channels. The data also suggest that the greatly reduced cAMP permeability of Cx50 channels could play a role in the regulation of cell division in the lens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
| | - Peter R. Brink
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
| | - Thomas W. White
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Morley G, Bernstein S, Kuznekoff L, Vasquez C, Saul P, Haemmerich D. Permanent and Transient Electrophysiological Effects During Cardiac Cryoablation Documented by Optical Activation Mapping and Thermal Imaging. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2018; 66:1844-1851. [PMID: 30418875 PMCID: PMC6667312 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2018.2880408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cardiac catheter cryoablation is a safer alternative to radiofrequency ablation for arrhythmia treatment, but electrophysiological (EP) effects during and after freezing are not adequately characterized. The goal of this study was to determine transient and permanent temperature induced EP effects, during and after localized tissue freezing. METHODS Conduction in right (RV) and left ventricles (LV) was studied by optical activation mapping during and after cryoablation in paced, isolated Langendorff-perfused porcine hearts. Cryoablation was performed endocardially (n=4) or epicardially (n=4) by a cryoprobe cooled to -120 °C for 8 minutes. Epicardial surface temperature was imaged with an infrared camera. Viability staining was performed after ablation. Motion compensation and co-registration was performed between optical mapping data, temperature image data, and lesion images. RESULTS Cryoablation produced lesions 14.9 +/- 3.1 mm in diameter and 5.8 +/- 1.7 mm deep. A permanent lesion was formed in tissue cooled below -5 +/- 4 °C. Transient EP changes observed at temperatures between 17 and 37 °C during cryoablation surrounding the frozen tissue region directly correlated with local temperature, and include action potential (AP) duration prolongation, decrease in AP magnitude, and slowing in conduction velocity (Q10=2.0). Transient conduction block was observed when epicardial temperature reached <17 °C, but completely resolved upon tissue rewarming, within 5 minutes. CONCLUSION Transient EP changes were observed surrounding the permanent cryo lesion (<-5 °C), including conduction block (-5 to 17 °C), and reduced conduction velocity (>17 °C). SIGNIFICANCE The observed changes explain effects observed during clinical cryoablation, including transient increases in effective refractory period, transient conduction block, and transient slowing of conduction. The presented quantitative data on temperature dependence of EP effects may enable the prediction of the effects of clinical cryoablation devices.
Collapse
|
8
|
Kienast R, Handler M, Stöger M, Baumgarten D, Hanser F, Baumgartner C. Modeling hypothermia induced effects for the heterogeneous ventricular tissue from cellular level to the impact on the ECG. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182979. [PMID: 28813535 PMCID: PMC5558962 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothermia has a profound impact on the electrophysiological mechanisms of the heart. Experimental investigations provide a better understanding of electrophysiological alterations associated with cooling. However, there is a lack of computer models suitable for simulating the effects of hypothermia in cardio-electrophysiology. In this work, we propose a model that describes the cooling-induced electrophysiological alterations in ventricular tissue in a temperature range from 27°C to 37°C. To model the electrophysiological conditions in a 3D left ventricular tissue block it was essential to consider the following anatomical and physiological parameters in the model: the different cell types (endocardial, M, epicardial), the heterogeneous conductivities in longitudinal, transversal and transmural direction depending on the prevailing temperature, the distinct fiber orientations and the transmural repolarization sequences. Cooling-induced alterations on the morphology of the action potential (AP) of single myocardial cells thereby are described by an extension of the selected Bueno-Orovio model for human ventricular tissue using Q10 temperature coefficients. To evaluate alterations on tissue level, the corresponding pseudo electrocardiogram (pECG) was calculated. Simulations show that cooling-induced AP and pECG-related parameters, i.e. AP duration, morphology of the notch of epicardial AP, maximum AP upstroke velocity, AP rise time, QT interval, QRS duration and J wave formation are in good accordance with literature and our experimental data. The proposed model enables us to further enhance our knowledge of cooling-induced electrophysiological alterations from cellular to tissue level in the heart and may help to better understand electrophysiological mechanisms, e.g. in arrhythmias, during hypothermia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roland Kienast
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Michael Handler
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
| | - Markus Stöger
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
| | - Daniel Baumgarten
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Friedrich Hanser
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
| | - Christian Baumgartner
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, UMIT–University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall, Tyrol, Austria
- Institute of Health Care Engineering with European Testing Center of Medical Devices, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Anders S, Minge D, Griemsmann S, Herde MK, Steinhäuser C, Henneberger C. Spatial properties of astrocyte gap junction coupling in the rat hippocampus. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2015; 369:20130600. [PMID: 25225094 PMCID: PMC4173286 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction coupling enables astrocytes to form large networks. Its strength determines how easily a signalling molecule diffuses through the network and how far a locally initiated signal can spread. Changes of coupling strength are well-documented during development and in response to various stimuli. Precise quantification of coupling is needed for studying such modifications and their functional consequences. We therefore explored spatial properties of astrocyte coupling in a model simulating dye loading of single astrocytes. Dye spread into the astrocyte network could be characterized by a coupling length constant and coupling anisotropy. In experiments, the fluorescent marker Alexa Fluor 594 was used to measure these parameters in CA1 and dentate gyrus of the rat hippocampus. Coupling did not differ between regions but showed a temperature-dependence, partially owing to changes of intracellular diffusivity, detected by measuring coupling length constants but not the more variable cell counts of dye-coupled astrocytes. We further found that coupling is anisotropic depending on distance to the pyramidal cell layer, which correlated with regional differences of astrocyte morphology. This demonstrates that applying these new analytical approaches provides useful quantitative information on gap junction coupling and its heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Anders
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniel Minge
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Stephanie Griemsmann
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michel K Herde
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Steinhäuser
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Henneberger
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany UCL Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kagiava A, Theophilidis G, Sargiannidou I, Kyriacou K, Kleopa KA. Oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity is mediated through gap junction channels and hemichannels and can be prevented by octanol. Neuropharmacology 2015; 97:289-305. [PMID: 26044641 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity (OIN) is a common complication of chemotherapy without effective treatment. In order to clarify the mechanisms of both acute and chronic OIN, we used an ex-vivo mouse sciatic nerve model. Exposure to 25 μM oxaliplatin caused a marked prolongation in the duration of the nerve evoked compound action potential (CAP) by nearly 1200% within 300 min while amplitude remained constant for over 20 h. This oxaliplatin effect was almost completely reversed by the gap junction (GJ) inhibitor octanol in a concentration-dependent manner. Further GJ blockers showed similar effects although with a narrower therapeutic window. To clarify the target molecule we studied sciatic nerves from connexin32 (Cx32) and Cx29 knockout (KO) mice. The oxaliplatin effect and neuroprotection by octanol partially persisted in Cx29 better than in Cx32 KO nerves, suggesting that oxaliplatin affects both, but Cx32 GJ channels more than Cx29 hemichannels. Oxaliplatin also accelerated neurobiotin uptake in HeLa cells expressing the human ortholog of Cx29, Cx31.3, as well as dye transfer between cells expressing the human Cx32, and this effect was blocked by octanol. Oxaliplatin caused no morphological changes initially (up to 3 h of exposure), but prolonged nerve exposure caused juxtaparonodal axonal edema, which was prevented by octanol. Our study indicates that oxaliplatin causes forced opening of Cx32 channels and Cx29 hemichannels in peripheral myelinated fibers leading to disruption of axonal K(+) homeostasis. The GJ blocker octanol prevents OIN at very low concentrations and should be further studied as a neuroprotectant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Kagiava
- Neuroscience Laboratory, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - George Theophilidis
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Irene Sargiannidou
- Neuroscience Laboratory, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kyriacos Kyriacou
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Electron Microscopy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kleopas A Kleopa
- Neuroscience Laboratory, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus; Neurology Clinics, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kienast R, Stöger M, Handler M, Hanser F, Baumgartner C. Alterations of field potentials in isotropic cardiomyocyte cell layers induced by multiple endogenous pacemakers under normal and hypothermal conditions. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 307:H1013-23. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00097.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The use of autonomous contracting randomly grown cardiomyocyte monolayers cultivated on microelectrode arrays (MEAs) represents an accepted experimental setting for preclinical experimental research in the field of cardiac electrophysiology. A dominant pacemaker forces a monolayer to adhere to a regular and synchronized contraction. Randomly distributed multiple pacemakers interfere with this dominant center, resulting in more or less frequent changes of propagation direction. This study aims to characterize the impact of changing propagation directions at single electrodes of the MEA on the four intrinsic parameters of registered field potentials (FPs) FPrise, FPMIN, FPpre, and FPdur and conduction velocity (CV) under normal and hypothermal conditions. Primary cultures of chicken cardiomyocytes ( n = 18) were plated directly onto MEAs and FPs were recorded in a temperature range between 37 and 29°C. The number and spatiotemporal distribution of biological and artificial pacemakers of each cell layer inside and outside of the MEA registration area were evaluated using an algorithm developed in-house. In almost every second myocardial cell layer, interfering autonomous pacemakers were detected at stable temperatures, showing random spatial distributions with similar beating rates. Additionally, a temperature-dependent change of the dominant pacemaker center was observed in n = 16 experiments. A significant spread-direction-dependent variation of CV, FPrise, FPMIN, and FPpre up to 14% could be measured between different endogenous pacemakers. In conclusion, based on our results, disregarding the spatial origin of excitation may lead to misinterpretations and erroneous conclusions of FP parameters in the verification of research hypotheses in cellular electrocardiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Kienast
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tyrol, Austria; and
| | - M. Stöger
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tyrol, Austria; and
- Division of Internal Medicine III/Cardiology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M. Handler
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tyrol, Austria; and
| | - F. Hanser
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tyrol, Austria; and
| | - C. Baumgartner
- Institute of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tyrol, Austria; and
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Konopacki J, Bocian R, Kowalczyk T, Kłos-Wojtczak P. The electrical coupling and the hippocampal formation theta rhythm in rats. Brain Res Bull 2014; 107:1-17. [PMID: 24747291 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) were discovered more than five decades ago, and since that time enormous strides have been made in understanding their structure and function. Despite the voluminous literature concerning the function of GJs, the involvement of these membrane structures in the central mechanisms underlying oscillations and synchrony in the neuronal network is still a matter of intensive debate. This review summarizes what is known concerning the involvement of GJs as electrical synapses in mechanisms underlying the generation of theta band oscillations. The first part of the chapter discusses the role of GJs in mechanisms of oscillations and synchrony. Following this, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments concerning the involvement of GJs in the generation of hippocampal formation theta in rats are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Konopacki
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Renata Bocian
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Lodz, Poland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kowalczyk T, Bocian R, Konopacki J. The generation of theta rhythm in hippocampal formation maintainedin vitro. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 37:679-99. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 11/09/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Kowalczyk
- Department of Neurobiology; Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection; University of Lodz; Pomorska Str. No 141/143; 90-236; Lodz; Poland
| | - Renata Bocian
- Department of Neurobiology; Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection; University of Lodz; Pomorska Str. No 141/143; 90-236; Lodz; Poland
| | - Jan Konopacki
- Department of Neurobiology; Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection; University of Lodz; Pomorska Str. No 141/143; 90-236; Lodz; Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bocian R, Posluszny A, Kowalczyk T, Kazmierska P, Konopacki J. Gap junction modulation of hippocampal formation theta and local cell discharges in anesthetized rats. Eur J Neurosci 2011; 33:471-81. [PMID: 21226774 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07545.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Renata Bocian
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Łódź, Rewolucji 1905 no. 66, Łódź 90-222, Poland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Prosdocimo DA, Douglas DC, Romani AM, O'Neill WC, Dubyak GR. Autocrine ATP release coupled to extracellular pyrophosphate accumulation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2009; 296:C828-39. [PMID: 19193865 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00619.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular inorganic pyrophosphate (PP(i)) is a potent suppressor of physiological calcification in bone and pathological calcification in blood vessels. Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterases (eNPPs) generate PP(i) via the hydrolysis of ATP released into extracellular compartments by poorly understood mechanisms. Here we report that cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) from rat aorta generate extracellular PP(i) via an autocrine mechanism that involves ATP release tightly coupled to eNPP activity. The nucleotide analog beta,gamma-methylene ATP (MeATP or AMPPCP) was used to selectively suppress ATP metabolism by eNPPs but not the CD39-type ecto-ATPases. In the absence of MeATP, VSMC generated extracellular PP(i) to accumulate >or=600 nM within 2 h while steadily maintaining extracellular ATP at 1 nM. Conversely, the presence of MeATP completely suppressed PP(i) accumulation while increasing ATP accumulation. Probenecid, which inhibits PP(i) efflux dependent on ANK, a putative PP(i) transporter or transport regulator, reduced extracellular PP(i) accumulation by approximately twofold. This indicates that autocrine ATP release coupled to eNPP activity comprises >or=50% of the extracellular PP(i)-generating capacity of VSMC. The accumulation of extracellular PP(i) and ATP was markedly attenuated by reduced temperature but was insensitive to brefeldin A, which suppresses constitutive exocytosis of Golgi-derived secretory vesicles. The magnitude of extracellular PP(i) accumulation in VSMC cultures increased with time postplating, suggesting that ATP release coupled to PP(i) generation is upregulated as cultured VSMC undergo contact-inhibition of proliferation or deposit extracellular matrix.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenick A Prosdocimo
- Dept. of Physiology, Case Western Reserve Univ. School of Medicine, 2109 Adelbert Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
|
17
|
Fedorov VV, Glukhov AV, Sudharshan S, Egorov Y, Rosenshtraukh LV, Efimov IR. Electrophysiological mechanisms of antiarrhythmic protection during hypothermia in winter hibernating versus nonhibernating mammals. Heart Rhythm 2008; 5:1587-96. [PMID: 18984537 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2008.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2008] [Accepted: 08/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robust cell-to-cell coupling is critically important in the safety of cardiac conduction and protection against ventricular fibrillation (VF). Hibernating mammals have evolved naturally protective mechanisms against VF induced by hypothermia and reperfusion injury. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that this protection strategy involves a dynamic maintenance of conduction and repolarization patterns through the improvement of gap junction functions. METHODS We optically mapped the hearts of summer-active (SA) and winter-hibernating (WH) ground squirrels Spermophilus undulatus from Siberia and nonhibernating rabbits during different temperatures (+3 degrees C to +37 degrees C). RESULTS Midhypothermia (+17 degrees C) resulted in nonuniform conduction slowing, increased dispersion of repolarization, shortened wavelength, and consequently enhanced VF induction in SA ground squirrels and rabbits. In contrast, wavelength was increased during hypothermia in WH hearts in which VF was not inducible at any temperature. In SA and rabbit hearts, but not in WH, conduction anisotropy was significantly increased by pacing acceleration, thus promoting VF induction during hypothermia. WH hearts maintained the same rate-independent anisotropic propagation pattern even at 3 degrees C. connexin 43 (Cx43) had more homogenous transmural distribution in WH ventricles as compared to SA. Moreover, Cx43 and N-cadherins (N-cad) densities as well as the percentage of their colocalization were significantly higher in WH compared to SA epicardium. CONCLUSION Rate-independent conduction anisotropy ratio, low dispersion of repolarization, and long wavelength-these are the main electrophysiological mechanisms of antiarrhythmic protection in hibernating mammalian species during hypothermia. This strategy includes the improved gap junction function, which is due to overexpression and enhanced colocalization of Cx43 and N-cad.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63130-4899, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Harada M, Honjo H, Yamazaki M, Nakagawa H, Ishiguro YS, Okuno Y, Ashihara T, Sakuma I, Kamiya K, Kodama I. Moderate hypothermia increases the chance of spiral wave collision in favor of self-termination of ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2008; 294:H1896-905. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00986.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF), moderate hypothermia (MH, 33°C) has been shown to improve defibrillation success compared with normothermia (NR, 37°C) and severe hypothermia (SH, 30°C). The underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that MH might prevent reentrant excitations rotating around functional obstacles (rotors) that are responsible for the genesis of VF. In two-dimensional Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts prepared by cryoablation ( n = 13), action potential signals were recorded by a high-resolution optical mapping system. During basic stimulation (2.5–5.0 Hz), MH and SH caused significant prolongation of action potential duration and significant reduction of conduction velocity. Wavelength was unchanged at MH, whereas it was shortened significantly at SH at higher stimulation frequencies (4.0–5.0 Hz). The duration of direct current stimulation-induced ventricular tachycardia (VT)/VF was reduced dramatically at MH compared with NR and SH. The spiral wave (SW) excitations documented during VT at NR were by and large organized, whereas those during VT/VF at MH and SH were characterized by disorganization with frequent breakup. Phase maps during VT/VF at MH showed a higher incidence of SW collision (mutual annihilation or exit from the anatomical boundaries), which caused a temporal disappearance of phase singularity points (PS-0), compared with that at NR and SH. There was an inverse relation between PS-0 period in the observation area and VT/VF duration. MH data points were located in a longer PS-0 period and a shorter VT/VF duration zone compared with SH. MH causes a modification of SW dynamics, leading to an increase in the chance of SW collision in favor of self-termination of VT/VF.
Collapse
|
19
|
Electrophysiological properties and gap junction coupling of striatal astrocytes. Neurochem Int 2008; 52:1365-72. [PMID: 18396351 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2008.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The striatum is the biggest nucleus of the basal ganglia and receives input from almost all cortical regions, substantia nigra and the thalamus. Striatal neuronal circuitry is well characterized, but less is known about glial physiology. To this end, we evaluated astrocyte electrophysiological properties using whole-cell patch-clamp recording in dorsal striatal brain slices from P15 to P21 rat. The majority of cells (95%) were passive astrocytes that do not express any detectable voltage-gated channels. Passive astrocytes were subcategorized into three groups based on time-dependent current properties. The observed proportion of the different astrocyte subtypes did not change within the age range evaluated here, but was modulated during reduction of specific conductances and gap junction coupling. Striatal astrocytes were extensively interconnected and closure of gap junctions with octanol (1mM), carbenoxolone (100 microM) or increased intracellular calcium (2mM), significantly altered intrinsic properties. When simultaneously blocking potassium channels and gap junction coupling almost no passive conductance was detected, implying that the major currents in striatal astrocytes derive from potassium and gap junction conductance. Uncoupling of the syncytium reduced currents activated in response to a hyperpolarizing pulse, suggesting that changes in gap junction coupling alters astrocyte electrophysiological responses. Our findings indicate that the prevalent gap junction coupling is vital for astrocyte function in the striatum, and that whole-cell recordings will be distorted by currents activated in neighboring cells.
Collapse
|
20
|
Gołebiewski H, Eckersdorf B, Konopacki J. Electrical coupling underlies theta rhythm in freely moving cats. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 24:1759-70. [PMID: 16965552 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04993.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The role of gap junction coupling in the generation of theta rhythms in freely moving cats was investigated in a present study. Two gap junction blockers, carbenoxolone and quinine, were administered intraperitoneally and intrahippocampally; both gap junction blockers abolished or diminished (respectively) hippocampal formation theta. The inhibitory effect developed approximately 30 min after drug administration. This effect was found to be reversible. Our results provide the first direct in vivo evidence for the contribution of gap junction communication in mechanisms of neural synchrony, underlying the production of theta in in vivo conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henryk Gołebiewski
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Łódź, Łódź, 90-222, Rewolucji 1905 no. 66, Poland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Adermark L, Lovinger DM. Ethanol effects on electrophysiological properties of astrocytes in striatal brain slices. Neuropharmacology 2006; 51:1099-108. [PMID: 16938316 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2006.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2006] [Revised: 05/02/2006] [Accepted: 05/25/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ethanol (EtOH) is known to alter neuronal physiology, but much less is known about the actions of this drug on glial function. To this end, we examined acute effects of ethanol on resting and voltage-activated membrane currents in striatal astrocytes using rat brain slices. Ten minutes exposure to 50mM EtOH reduced slope conductance by 20%, increased input resistance by 25% and decreased capacitance by 38% but did not affect resting membrane potential. Current generated by a hyperpolarizing pulse was inhibited in a concentration dependent manner in passive astrocytes, while no significant EtOH effect was observed in complex astrocytes or neurons. The EtOH effect was blocked when intracellular KCl was replaced with CsCl, but not during chelation of intracellular calcium with BAPTA. During blockage of gap junction coupling with high intracellular CaCl(2) or extracellular carbenoxolone the EtOH effect persisted but was reduced. Interestingly, EtOH effects were largely irreversible when gap junctions were open, but were fully reversible when gap junctions were closed. Ethanol also reduced the spread to other cells of Lucifer Yellow dye from individual glia filled via the patch pipette. These data suggest that EtOH inhibits a calcium-insensitive potassium channel, most likely a passive potassium channel, but also affects gap junction coupling in a way that is sustained after ethanol withdrawal. Astrocytes play a critical role in brain potassium homeostasis, and therefore EtOH effects on astrocytic function could influence neuronal activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise Adermark
- Section on Synaptic Pharmacology, Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, NIAAA/NIH, 5625 Fishers Lane, TS-13, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fedorov VV, Li L, Glukhov A, Shishkina I, Aliev RR, Mikheeva T, Nikolski VP, Rosenshtraukh LV, Efimov IR. Hibernator Citellus undulatus maintains safe cardiac conduction and is protected against tachyarrhythmias during extreme hypothermia: possible role of Cx43 and Cx45 up-regulation. Heart Rhythm 2006; 2:966-75. [PMID: 16171752 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2005.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2005] [Accepted: 06/13/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most mammals experience cardiac arrest during hypothermia. In contrast, hibernators remain in sinus rhythm even at body temperatures of 0 degrees C. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to quantify electrical activity and connexin expression in the heart of hibernating Siberian ground squirrel Citellus undulatus. METHODS Optical imaging and microelectrode recordings were conducted in Langendorff-perfused hearts and isolated papillary muscles of summer active (SA, n = 19), winter hibernating (WH, n = 21), interbout arousal (IBA, n = 12), and winter active (WA, n = 3) ground squirrels and rabbits (n = 14) at temperatures from +37 degrees C to +3 degrees C. RESULTS All studied SA and WH hearts maintained spontaneous sinus rhythm, safe propagation through the entire conduction system, and normal pattern of ventricular excitation at all temperatures. However, three of the seven IBA and all rabbit hearts lost excitability at 10 degrees C +/- 1 degrees C and 12 degrees C +/- 1 degrees C, respectively. In WH, SA, and IBA ground squirrels, temperature reduction from 37 degrees C to 3 degrees C resulted in a 10-fold slowing of ventricular conduction velocity and increased excitation threshold. At any temperature, WH ventricles had faster conduction velocity and lower excitation threshold compared with SA and IBA. Immunolabeling demonstrated that connexin43 (Cx43) was significantly up-regulated in WH and WA compared with SA myocardium: Cx43 area density was 12.4 +/- 1.3, 15.0 +/- 3.0 and 8.6 +/- 1.1 microm(2)/1,000 microm(2), respectively. Moreover, Cx45 was expressed in the WH but not in the SA or WA ventricles. CONCLUSION Hibernator Citellus undulatus has evolved to maintain safe conduction at extreme hypothermia via up-regulation of Cx43 and Cx45 in order to protect the heart against arrhythmia associated with hypothermia.
Collapse
|
23
|
van der Heyden MAG, Opthof T. The hidden secrets of the hibernator’s heart may protect against arrhythmias. Heart Rhythm 2005; 2:976-8. [PMID: 16171753 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2005.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
24
|
Sakai R, Elfgang C, Vogel R, Willecke K, Weingart R. The electrical behaviour of rat connexin46 gap junction channels expressed in transfected HeLa cells. Pflugers Arch 2003; 446:714-27. [PMID: 12861414 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-003-1129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2003] [Accepted: 05/29/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Pairs of human HeLa cells expressing rat connexin46 were used to study the electrical properties of gap junction channels with the dual voltage-clamp method. The steady-state conductance ( g(j,ss)) had a bell-shaped dependence on transjunctional voltage ( V(j)). The parameters of the Boltzmann fit were: V(j,0)=42 mV, g(j,min)=0.12, z=2.5 (pipette solution: K(+) aspartate(-); 27 degrees C). The Boltzmann parameters were sensitive to the ionic composition of the pipette solution (KCl, K(+) aspartate(-), TEA(+) Cl(-), TEA(+) aspartate(-)). The V(j)-dependent inactivation of the junctional current I(j) was approximated by single exponentials (exceptions: two exponentials with KCl at V(j)>or=75 mV and K(+) aspartate(-) at V(j)=125 mV). The time constant of inactivation (tau(i)) decreased with increasing V(j) and was sensitive to the pipette solution. The larger the ions, the slower the inactivation. Recovery from inactivation followed a single exponential. The time constant of recovery (tau(r)) increased with increasing V(j). Single-channel currents showed a main state, several substates and a residual state. The corresponding conductances gamma(j,main) and gamma(j,residual) decreased slightly with increasing V(j); extrapolation to V(j)=0 mV yielded values of 152 and 28 pS, respectively (K(+) aspartate(-); 37 degrees C). The values of gamma(j,main) and gamma(j,residual) were dependent on pipette solution. The ratio gamma(j,main)/gamma(j,residual) increased with increasing ionic size, suggesting that the residual state impairs ion permeation more severely than the main state. The gamma(j,main) data suggest that the ionic selectivity of Cx46 channels may be controlled primarily by ionic size. Compared with hemichannel results, docking of connexons may modify the channel structure and thereby affect the ionic selectivity of gap junction channels. The open channel probability at steady state ( P(o)) decreased with increasing V(j). The parameters of the Boltzmann fit were: V(j,0)=41 mV, z=2.2 (K(+) aspartate(-); 27 degrees C).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rieko Sakai
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Bühlplatz 5, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Valiunas V, Manthey D, Vogel R, Willecke K, Weingart R. Biophysical properties of mouse connexin30 gap junction channels studied in transfected human HeLa cells. J Physiol 1999; 519 Pt 3:631-44. [PMID: 10457079 PMCID: PMC2269545 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.1999.0631n.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/1999] [Accepted: 06/22/1999] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
1. Human HeLa cells expressing mouse connexin30 (Cx30) were used to study the electrical properties of Cx30 gap junction channels. Experiments were performed on cell pairs with the dual voltage-clamp method. 2. The gap junction conductance (gj) at steady state showed a bell-shaped dependence on junctional voltage (Vj; Boltzmann fit: Vj,0 = 27 mV, gj,min = 0.15, z = 4). The instantaneous gj decreased slightly with increasing Vj. 3. The gap junction currents (Ij) declined with time following a single exponential. The time constants of Ij inactivation (taui) decreased with increasing Vj. 4. Single channels exhibited a main state, a residual state and a closed state. The conductances gammaj,main and gammaj,residual were 179 and 48 pS, respectively (pipette solution, potassium aspartate; temperature, 36-37 degrees C; extrapolated to Vj = 0 mV). 5. The conductances gammaj,residual and gammaj,main showed a slight Vj dependence and were sensitive to temperature (Q10 values of 1.28 and 1.16, respectively). 6. Current transitions between open states (i.e. main state, substates, residual state) were fast (< 2 ms), while those between an open state and the closed state were slow (12 ms). 7. The open channel probability (Po) at steady state decreased from 1 to 0 with increasing Vj (Boltzmann fit: Vj,0 = 37 mV; z = 3). 8. Histograms of channel open times implied the presence of a single main state; histograms of channel closed times suggested the existence of two closed states (i.e. residual states). 9. We conclude that Cx30 channels are controlled by two types of gates, a fast one responsible for Vj gating involving transitions between open states (i.e. residual state, main state), and a slow one correlated with chemical gating involving transitions between the closed state and an open state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Valiunas
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Buhlplatz 5, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Langer SF, Lambertz M, Langhorst P, Schmidt HD. Interbeat interval variability in isolated working rat hearts at various dynamic conditions and temperatures. RESEARCH IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR DIE GESAMTE EXPERIMENTELLE MEDIZIN EINSCHLIESSLICH EXPERIMENTELLER CHIRURGIE 1999; 199:1-19. [PMID: 10494670 DOI: 10.1007/s004330050128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study quantifies the effect of afterload and preload changes and of temperature on interbeat interval variability of the intact isolated heart. Ventricular pressure pulse records were obtained from isolated working rat hearts. The variability of interbeat intervals (BIs) was quantified by C90, the central 90% range of the BIs during 10 min periods; predominant frequencies were searched for by power spectral analysis. At 37 degrees C the BI lengths oscillated pseudo-randomly with BI variability C90< or =4 ms. Alternating signs of consecutive BI differences were predominant, and no peaks. were seen in the power spectra. Changes in end-diastolic and aortic pressure had little effect. From 37 degrees C down to 27 degrees C the variability increased about sevenfold, run phase length became randomly distributed, and individual, time-variant peaks occurred in the power spectra. BI variability vanished during atrial pacing. We conclude that: (1) effective mutual synchronization with minimal fluctuation happens within the sino-atrial node of intact rat hearts at body temperature, and synchronization is not affected even by extreme changes in pre- and afterload, (2) the sino-atrial node is the sole source of BI variability in the intact isolated rat heart, (3) low temperature hampers this functional organization which can be reestablished by sinus node accelerating agents (isoprenaline, theophylline), (4) decreasing frequency by N6-Cyclopentyladenosine at normothermia also increases BI variability but less pronouncedly than hypothermia does.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S F Langer
- Institute of Physiology, Free University Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Dhein S. Gap junction channels in the cardiovascular system: pharmacological and physiological modulation. Trends Pharmacol Sci 1998; 19:229-41. [PMID: 9666714 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-6147(98)01192-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication provides the basis for the intact functioning of tissue and for various organs and tissue types in an organism to work together. It is the crucial difference between isolated cells and intact tissue. Cells communicate in various ways with each other; these include the release of chemical transmitters, hormones and mediators as well as direct electrical and chemical intercellular communication via gap junction channels. The gap junction coupling is important for the organization of the tissue as an electrical syncytium and for accurate development. Pharmacological modulation of these channels could be important in the fields of arrhythmogenesis, vasomotion and cell differentiation. In this review, Stefan Dhein outlines the structure, synthesis and function of gap junction channels. Since their physiology and pharmacology are best investigated in the cardiovascular system, the second part of the article focuses on the role of gap junctions in the heart and vasculature, with special emphasis on the regulation of the channels by physiological stimuli such as ions, pH mediators and transjunctional voltage as well as their pharmacological modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Dhein
- Institut für Pharmakologie, Universität zu Köln, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Verheijck EE, Wilders R, Joyner RW, Golod DA, Kumar R, Jongsma HJ, Bouman LN, van Ginneken AC. Pacemaker synchronization of electrically coupled rabbit sinoatrial node cells. J Gen Physiol 1998; 111:95-112. [PMID: 9417138 PMCID: PMC1887765 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.111.1.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of intercellular coupling conductance on the activity of two electrically coupled isolated rabbit sinoatrial nodal cells were investigated. A computer-controlled version of the "coupling clamp" technique was used in which isolated sinoatrial nodal cells, not physically in contact with each other, were electrically coupled at various values of ohmic coupling conductance, mimicking the effects of mutual interaction by electrical coupling through gap junctional channels. We demonstrate the existence of four types of electrical behavior of coupled spontaneously active cells. As the coupling conductance is progressively increased, the cells exhibit: (a) independent pacemaking at low coupling conductances, (b) complex dynamics of activity with mutual interactions, (c) entrainment of action potential frequency at a 1:1 ratio with different action potential waveforms, and (d) entrainment of action potentials at the same frequency of activation and virtually identical action potential waveforms. The critical value of coupling conductance required for 1:1 frequency entrainment was <0.5 nS in each of the five cell pairs studied. The common interbeat interval at a relatively high coupling conductance (10 nS), which is sufficient to produce entrainment of frequency and also identical action potential waveforms, is determined most by the intrinsically faster pacemaker cell and it can be predicted from the diastolic depolarization times of both cells. Evidence is provided that, at low coupling conductances, mutual pacemaker synchronization results mainly from the phase-resetting effects of the action potential of one cell on the depolarization phase of the other. At high coupling conductances, the tonic, diastolic interactions become more important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E E Verheijck
- Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Department of Physiology, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rohr S, Kucera JP. Involvement of the calcium inward current in cardiac impulse propagation: induction of unidirectional conduction block by nifedipine and reversal by Bay K 8644. Biophys J 1997; 72:754-66. [PMID: 9017201 PMCID: PMC1185599 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-3495(97)78710-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In general, the fast sodium inward current (INa) is regarded as the main inward current ensuring fast and safe excitation of the normally polarized working myocardium. However, under conditions of locally delayed excitation in the millisecond range, the slow inward current (ICa) might additionally contribute to the success of impulse propagation. This hypothesis was tested in patterned growth cultures of neonatal rat ventricular myocytes, which consisted of narrow cell strands connected to large rectangular cell monolayers, where INa or ICa could be modified in the narrow cell strand adjacent to the expansion by a microsuperfusion system. As assessed during antegrade (strand-->expansion) propagation under control conditions using a system for multiple site optical recording of transmembrane voltage (MSORTV), this cell pattern gave either rise to local activation delays at the expansion ranging from 0.5 to 4 ms (dcontrol), or it induced undirectional conduction blocks (UCBs) in the antegrade direction. Irrespective of the size of dcontrol, suppression of the sodium current with tetrodotoxin confined to the cell strand adjacent to the expansion invariably induced UCB in the antegrade direction. If dcontrol was > 1 ms, UCB could also be elicited by suppression of ICa alone with nifedipine. Conversely, if UCB was present under control conditions, the inclusion of Bay K 8644 in the microsuperfusion established successful bidirectional conduction. These results suggest that ICa can be critically important for the success of impulse propagation across abrupt expansions of excitable tissue even if INa is not concurrently depressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Rohr
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
A communication-deficient cell line (RIN cells, derived from a rat islet tumour), stably transfected with cDNA coding for rat connexin43 (Cx43), was chosen to further assess the mechanism of voltage gating of Cx43 gap junction channels. The experiments were carried out on preformed cell pairs using a dual whole-cell, voltage-clamp method. The junctional current, Ij, revealed a time- and voltage-dependent inactivation at transjunctional voltages Vj>+/-40 mV. When an asymmetrical pulse protocol was used (in cell 1 the holding potential was maintained, in cell 2 it was altered to establish a variable Vj), the channels exhibited an asymmetrical gating behaviour: Vj,0=-73.7 mV and 65.1 mV for negative and positive Vj, respectively (Vj at which Ij is half-maximally inactivated); gj(min)=0.34 and 0.29 (normalized minimal conductance); tau = 350 ms and 80 ms at Vj=100 mV (time constant of Ij inactivation). Hence, these parameters were more sensitive to positive Vj values. When a symmetrical pulse protocol was used (the holding potentials in cell 1 and cell 2 were altered simultaneously in steps of equal amplitude but of opposite polarity), the Vj -dependent asymmetries were absent: Vj,0=-60.5 and 59.5; gj (min)=0.27 and 0.29; tau =64 ms and 47 ms at 100mV. Putative explanations for these observations are discussed. A possibility is that the number of channels alters with the polarity of Vj.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Banach
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Bühlplatz 5, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mears D, Sheppard NF, Atwater I, Rojas E. Magnitude and modulation of pancreatic beta-cell gap junction electrical conductance in situ. J Membr Biol 1995; 146:163-76. [PMID: 7473686 DOI: 10.1007/bf00238006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The parallel gap junction electrical conductance between a beta-cell and its nearest neighbors was measured by using an intracellular microelectrode to clamp the voltage of a beta-cell within a bursting islet of Langerhans. The holding current records consisted of bursts of inward current due to the synchronized oscillations in membrane potential of the surrounding cells. The membrane potential record of the impaled cell, obtained in current clamp mode, was used to estimate the behavior of the surrounding cells during voltage clamp, and the coupling conductance was calculated by dividing the magnitude of the current bursts by that of the voltage bursts. The histogram of coupling conductance magnitude from 26 cells was bimodal with peaks at 2.5 and 3.5 nS, indicating heterogeneity in extent of electrical communication within the islet of Langerhans. Gap junction conductance reversibly decreased when the temperature was lowered from 37 to 30 degrees C and when the extracellular calcium concentration was raised from 2.56 to 7.56 mM. The coupling conductance decreased slightly during the active phase of the burst. Activation of adenylate cyclase with forskolin (10 microM) resulted in an increase in cell-to-cell electrical coupling. We conclude that beta-cell gap junction conductance can be measured in situ under near physiological conditions. Furthermore, the magnitude and physiological regulation of beta-cell gap junction conductance suggest that intercellular electrical communication plays an important role in the function of the endocrine pancreas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Mears
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bukauskas FF, Elfgang C, Willecke K, Weingart R. Biophysical properties of gap junction channels formed by mouse connexin40 in induced pairs of transfected human HeLa cells. Biophys J 1995; 68:2289-98. [PMID: 7544165 PMCID: PMC1282139 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-3495(95)80411-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A clone of human HeLa cells stably transfected with mouse connexin40 DNA was used to examine gap junctions. Two separate cells were brought into physical contact with each other ("induced cell pair") to allow insertion of gap junction channels and, hence, formation of a gap junction. The intercellular current flow was measured with a dual voltage-clamp method. This approach enabled us to study the electrical properties of gap junction channels (cell pairs with a single channel) and gap junctions (cell pairs with many channels). We found that single channels exhibited multiple conductances, a main state (gamma j(main state)), several substates (gamma j(substates)), a residual state (gamma j (residual state)), and a closed state (gamma j(closed state)). The gamma j(main state) was 198 pS, and gamma j(residual state) was 36 pS (temperature, 36-37 degrees C; pipette solution, potassium aspartate). Both properties were insensitive to transjunctional voltage, Vj. The transitions between the closed state and an open state (i.e., residual state, substate, or main state) were slow (15-45 ms); those between the residual state and a substate or the main state were fast (1-2 ms). Under steady-state conditions, the open channel probability, Po, decreased in a sigmoidal manner from 1 to 0 (Boltzmann fit: Vj,o = -44 mV; z = 6). The temperature coefficient, Q10, for gamma j(main state) and gamma j(residual state) was 1.2 and 1.3, respectively (p < 0.001; range 15-40 degrees C). This difference suggests interactions between ions and channel structure in case of gamma j(residual state). In cell pairs with many channels, the gap junction conductance at steady state, gj, exhibited a bell-shaped dependency from Vj (Boltzmann fit, negative Vj, Vj,o = -45 mV, gj(min) = 0.24; positive Vj, Vj,o = 49 mV, gj(min) = 0.26; z = 6). We conclude that each channel is controlled by two types of gates, a fast one responsible for Vj gating and involving transitions between open states (i.e., residual state, substates, main state), and a slow one involving transitions between the closed state and an open state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F F Bukauskas
- Physiologisches Institut, Universität Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen YH, DeHaan RL. Temperature dependence of embryonic cardiac gap junction conductance and channel kinetics. J Membr Biol 1993; 136:125-34. [PMID: 7508979 DOI: 10.1007/bf02505757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
We have investigated the effects of temperature on the conductance and voltage-dependent kinetics of cardiac gap junction channels between pairs of seven-day embryonic chick ventricle myocytes over the range of 14-26 degrees C. Records of junctional conductance (Gj) and steady-state unit junctional channel activity were made using the whole-cell double patch-clamp technique while the bath temperature was steadily changed at a rate of about 4 degrees C/min. The decrease in Gj upon cooling was biphasic with a distinct break at 21 degrees C. In 12 cell pairs, Q10 was 2.2 from 26 to 21 degrees C, while between 21 and 14 degrees C it was 6.5. The mean Gj at 22 degrees C (Gj22) was 3.0 +/- 2.1 nS, ranging in different preparations from 0.24 to 6.4 nS. At room temperature, embryonic cardiac gap junctions contain channels with conductance states near 240, 200, 160, 120, 80 and 40 pS. In the present study, we demonstrate that cooling decreases the frequency of channel openings at all conductance levels, and at temperatures below 20 degrees C shifts the prevalence of openings from higher to lower conductance states: all 240 pS openings disappear below 20 degrees C; 200 pS openings are suppressed at 17 degrees C; below 16 degrees C 160 and 120 pS events disappear and only 80 and 40 pS states are seen. Temperature also affected the voltage-dependent kinetics of the channels. Application of a 6 sec, 80 mV voltage step across the junction (Vj80) caused a biexponential decay in junctional conductance. Decay was faster at lower temperatures, whereas the rate of recovery of Gj after returning to Vj0 was slowed. Cooling reduced the fast decay time constant, increased both recovery time constants, and decreased the magnitude of Gj decay, thus leaving a 10-16% larger residual conductance (Gss/Ginit, +/- 80 mV Vj) at 18 than at 22 degrees C. From these results we propose that embryonic chick cardiac gap junctions contain at least two classes of channels with different conductances and temperature sensitivities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y H Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Emory University Health Science Center, Atlanta, Georgia 30322
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Weingart R, Bukauskas FF. Gap junction channels of insects exhibit a residual conductance. Pflugers Arch 1993; 424:192-4. [PMID: 7692388 DOI: 10.1007/bf00374611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Formation of gap junction coupled cell pairs was used to assess the basic properties of single gap junction channels. For this purpose, two single cells (clone C6/36, derived from larvae of an insect, Aedes albopictus) were maneuvered against each other to provoke gap junction channel insertion. Intercellular current flow was measured with a dual voltage-clamp method. Utilizing this approach, we were able to demonstrate that gap junction channels, after formation, do not close completely upon application of a transjunctional voltage gradient, Vj. Instead, they exhibit a residual conductance, gamma j(residual). On average, gamma j(residual) was 64 +/- 4 pS (n = 40). This corresponds to about 1/6 of the conductance of a fully open channel. The existence of gamma j(residual) explains the observation that the conductance of the entire gap junction, gj, decreases only partially at large Vj.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Weingart
- Department of Physiology, University of Berne, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|