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Hennis K, Piantoni C, Biel M, Fenske S, Wahl-Schott C. Pacemaker Channels and the Chronotropic Response in Health and Disease. Circ Res 2024; 134:1348-1378. [PMID: 38723033 PMCID: PMC11081487 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.323250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Loss or dysregulation of the normally precise control of heart rate via the autonomic nervous system plays a critical role during the development and progression of cardiovascular disease-including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. While the clinical significance of regulating changes in heart rate, known as the chronotropic effect, is undeniable, the mechanisms controlling these changes remain not fully understood. Heart rate acceleration and deceleration are mediated by increasing or decreasing the spontaneous firing rate of pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. During the transition from rest to activity, sympathetic neurons stimulate these cells by activating β-adrenergic receptors and increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate. The same signal transduction pathway is targeted by positive chronotropic drugs such as norepinephrine and dobutamine, which are used in the treatment of cardiogenic shock and severe heart failure. The cyclic adenosine monophosphate-sensitive hyperpolarization-activated current (If) in pacemaker cells is passed by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels and is critical for generating the autonomous heartbeat. In addition, this current has been suggested to play a central role in the chronotropic effect. Recent studies demonstrate that cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent regulation of HCN4 (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channel isoform 4) acts to stabilize the heart rate, particularly during rapid rate transitions induced by the autonomic nervous system. The mechanism is based on creating a balance between firing and recently discovered nonfiring pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. In this way, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels may protect the heart from sinoatrial node dysfunction, secondary arrhythmia of the atria, and potentially fatal tachyarrhythmia of the ventricles. Here, we review the latest findings on sinoatrial node automaticity and discuss the physiological and pathophysiological role of HCN pacemaker channels in the chronotropic response and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Hennis
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Chiara Piantoni
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Martin Biel
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Stefanie Fenske
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Christian Wahl-Schott
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
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2
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Jameson AT, Spera LK, Nguyen DL, Paul EM, Tabuchi M. Membrane-coated glass electrodes for stable, low-noise electrophysiology recordings in Drosophila central neurons. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 404:110079. [PMID: 38340901 PMCID: PMC11034715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110079] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electrophysiological recording with glass electrodes is one of the best techniques to measure membrane potential dynamics and ionic currents of voltage-gated channels in neurons. However, artifactual variability of the biophysical state variables that determine recording quality can be caused by insufficient affinity between the electrode and cell membrane during the recording. NEW METHOD We introduce a phospholipid membrane coating on glass electrodes to improve intracellular electrophysiology recording quality. Membrane-coated electrodes were prepared with a tip-dip protocol for perforated-patch, sharp-electrode current-clamp, and cell-attached patch-clamp recordings from specific circadian clock neurons in Drosophila. We perform quantitative comparisons based on the variability of functional biophysical parameters used in various electrophysiological methods, and advanced statistical comparisons based on the degree of stationariness and signal-to-noise ratio. RESULTS Results indicate a dramatic reduction in artifactual variabilities of functional parameters from enhanced stability. We also identify significant exclusions of a statistically estimated noise component in a time series of membrane voltage signals, improving signal-to-noise ratio. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Compared to standard glass electrodes, using membrane-coated glass electrodes achieves improved recording quality in intracellular electrophysiology. CONCLUSIONS Electrophysiological recordings from Drosophila central neurons can be technically challenging, however, membrane-coated electrodes will possibly be beneficial for reliable data acquisition and improving the technical feasibility of axonal intracellular activities measurements and single-channel recordings. The improved electrical stability of the recordings should also contribute to increased mechanical stability, thus facilitating long-term stable measurements of neural activity. Therefore, it is possible that membrane-coated electrodes will be useful for any model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica T Jameson
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Lucia K Spera
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Dieu Linh Nguyen
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Elizabeth M Paul
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Masashi Tabuchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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Pham DL, Niemi A, Blank R, Lomenzo G, Tham J, Ko ML, Ko GYP. Peptide Lv Promotes Trafficking and Membrane Insertion of K Ca3.1 through the MEK1-ERK and PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:1651. [PMID: 37371121 PMCID: PMC10296961 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121651] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide Lv is a small endogenous secretory peptide that is proangiogenic through hyperpolarizing vascular endothelial cells (ECs) by enhancing the current densities of KCa3.1 channels. However, it is unclear how peptide Lv enhances these currents. One way to enhance the current densities of ion channels is to promote its trafficking and insertion into the plasma membrane. We hypothesized that peptide Lv-elicited KCa3.1 augmentation occurs through activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways, which are known to mediate ion channel trafficking and membrane insertion in neurons. To test this hypothesis, we employed patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings and cell-surface biotinylation assays on ECs treated with peptide Lv and pharmaceutical inhibitors of ERK and Akt. Blocking ERK or Akt activation diminished peptide Lv-elicited EC hyperpolarization and increase in KCa3.1 current densities. Blocking PI3K or Akt activation decreased the level of plasma membrane-bound, but not the total amount of KCa3.1 protein in ECs. Therefore, the peptide Lv-elicited EC hyperpolarization and KCa3.1 augmentation occurred in part through channel trafficking and insertion mediated by MEK1-ERK and PI3K-Akt activation. These results demonstrate the molecular mechanisms of how peptide Lv promotes EC-mediated angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan L. Pham
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
| | - Autumn Niemi
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
| | - Ria Blank
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
| | - Gabriella Lomenzo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
| | - Jenivi Tham
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
| | - Michael L. Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
- Department of Biology, Division of Natural and Physical Sciences, Blinn College, Bryan, TX 77802, USA
| | - Gladys Y.-P. Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.L.P.); (A.N.); (R.B.); (G.L.); (J.T.); (M.L.K.)
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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4
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Matamoros M, Ng XW, Brettmann JB, Piston DW, Nichols CG. Conformational plasticity of NaK2K and TREK2 potassium channel selectivity filters. Nat Commun 2023; 14:89. [PMID: 36609575 PMCID: PMC9822992 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35756-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The K+ channel selectivity filter (SF) is defined by TxGYG amino acid sequences that generate four identical K+ binding sites (S1-S4). Only two sites (S3, S4) are present in the non-selective bacterial NaK channel, but a four-site K+-selective SF is obtained by mutating the wild-type TVGDGN SF sequence to a canonical K+ channel TVGYGD sequence (NaK2K mutant). Using single molecule FRET (smFRET), we show that the SF of NaK2K, but not of non-selective NaK, is ion-dependent, with the constricted SF configuration stabilized in high K+ conditions. Patch-clamp electrophysiology and non-canonical fluorescent amino acid incorporation show that NaK2K selectivity is reduced by crosslinking to limit SF conformational movement. Finally, the eukaryotic K+ channel TREK2 SF exhibits essentially identical smFRET-reported ion-dependent conformations as in prokaryotic K+ channels. Our results establish the generality of K+-induced SF conformational stability across the K+ channel superfamily, and introduce an approach to study manipulation of channel selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Matamoros
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xue Wen Ng
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joshua B Brettmann
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Millipore-Sigma Inc., St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David W Piston
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Colin G Nichols
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Peptide Lv augments intermediate-conductance calcium-dependent potassium channels (KCa3.1) in endothelial cells to promote angiogenesis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276744. [PMID: 36282858 PMCID: PMC9595550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide Lv is a small endogenous secretory peptide that is expressed in various tissues and conserved across different species. Patients with diabetic retinopathy, an ocular disease with pathological angiogenesis, have upregulated peptide Lv in their retinas. The pro-angiogenic activity of peptide Lv is in part through promoting vascular endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, migration, and sprouting, but its molecular mechanism is not completely understood. This study aimed to decipher how peptide Lv promotes EC-dependent angiogenesis by using patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings, Western immunoblotting, quantitative PCR, and cell proliferation assays in cultured ECs. Endothelial cells treated with peptide Lv became significantly hyperpolarized, an essential step for EC activation. Treatment with peptide Lv augmented the expression and current densities of the intermediate-conductance calcium-dependent potassium (KCa3.1) channels that contribute to EC hyperpolarization but did not augment other potassium channels. Blocking KCa3.1 attenuated peptide Lv-elicited EC proliferation. These results indicate that peptide Lv-stimulated increases of functional KCa3.1 in ECs contributes to EC activation and EC-dependent angiogenesis.
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Han S, Peng S, Vance J, Tran K, Do N, Bui N, Gui Z, Wang S. Structural dynamics determine voltage and pH gating in human voltage-gated proton channel. eLife 2022; 11:73093. [PMID: 35244539 PMCID: PMC8926398 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton (Hv) channels are standalone voltage sensors without separate ion conductive pores. They are gated by both voltage and transmembrane proton gradient (i.e., ∆pH), serving as acid extruders in most cells. Like the canonical voltage sensors, Hv channels are a bundle of four helices (named S1 –S4), with the S4 segment carrying three positively charged Arg residues. Extensive structural and electrophysiological studies on voltage-gated ion channels, in general, agree on an outwards movement of the S4 segment upon activating voltage, but the real-time conformational transitions are still unattainable. With purified human voltage-gated proton (hHv1) channels reconstituted in liposomes, we have examined its conformational dynamics, including the S4 segment at different voltage and pHs using single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET). Here, we provide the first glimpse of real-time conformational trajectories of the hHv1 voltage sensor and show that both voltage and pH gradient shift the conformational dynamics of the S4 segment to control channel gating. Our results indicate that the S4 segment transits among three major conformational states and only the transitions between the inward and outward conformations are highly dependent on voltage and pH. Altogether, we propose a kinetic model that explains the mechanisms underlying voltage and pH gating in Hv channels, which may also serve as a general framework for understanding the voltage sensing and gating in other voltage-gated ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Han
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Sophia Peng
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Joshua Vance
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Kimberly Tran
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Nhu Do
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Nauy Bui
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Zhenhua Gui
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
| | - Shizhen Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, United States
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7
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Hess S, Pouzat C, Kloppenburg P. Datasets for calcium dynamics comparison between the whole-cell and a β-escin based perforated patch configuration in brain slices from adult mice. Data Brief 2021; 39:107494. [PMID: 34754890 PMCID: PMC8560957 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.107494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple processes shape calcium signals in neurons. The spatial and temporal dynamics of these signals are determined by various cellular parameters, including the calcium influx, calcium buffering, and calcium extrusion. The different Ca2+ handling properties can be estimated using the 'added buffer approach' [1], which is based on a single compartment model of Ca2+ buffering. To use this approach, the cell has to be loaded with a Ca2+ sensitive dye (e.g., fura-2) via the patch pipette, which is usually done in the whole-cell patch clamp configuration. However, determining Ca2+ handling properties can be complex and frequently unsuccessful due to the wash-out of intracellular components (e.g., mobile Ca2+ buffers) during whole-cell patch clamp recordings. We present two Ca2+ imaging datasets from adult substantia nigra dopamine neurons where the 'added buffer approach' was either combined with the 'conventional' whole-cell configuration or with a β-escin based perforated patch clamp configuration. These data can be used to compare the two methods or to draw comparisons with the Ca2+ handling properties of other neuron types. Further details and an in-depth analysis of the new combination of the 'added buffer approach' with the β-escin based perforated patch clamp configuration can be found in our companion manuscripts "Analysis of neuronal Ca2+ handling properties by combining perforated patch clamp recordings and the added buffer approach" [2] and "A Simple Method for Getting Standard Error on the Ratiometric Calcium Estimator" [3].
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hess
- Biocenter, and Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Peter Kloppenburg
- Biocenter, and Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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8
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Bueschke N, Amaral-Silva L, Hu M, Santin JM. Lactate ions induce synaptic plasticity to enhance output from the central respiratory network. J Physiol 2021; 599:5485-5504. [PMID: 34761806 DOI: 10.1113/jp282062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactate ion sensing has emerged as a process that regulates ventilation during metabolic challenges. Most work has focused on peripheral sensing of lactate for the control of breathing. However, lactate also rises in the central nervous system (CNS) during disturbances to blood gas homeostasis and exercise. Using an amphibian model, we recently showed that lactate ions, independently of pH and pyruvate metabolism, act directly in the brainstem to increase respiratory-related motor outflow. This response had a long washout time and corresponded with potentiated excitatory synaptic strength of respiratory motoneurons. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that lactate ions enhance respiratory output using cellular mechanisms associated with long-term synaptic plasticity within motoneurons. In this study, we confirm that 2 mM sodium lactate, but not sodium pyruvate, increases respiratory motor output in brainstem-spinal cord preparations, persisting for 2 h upon the removal of lactate. Lactate also led to prolonged increases in the amplitude of AMPA-glutamate receptor (AMPAR) currents in individual motoneurons from brainstem slices. Both motor facilitation and AMPAR potentiation by lactate required classic effectors of synaptic plasticity, L-type Ca2+ channels and NMDA receptors, as part of the transduction process but did not correspond with increased expression of immediate-early genes often associated with activity-dependent neuronal plasticity. Altogether these results show that lactate ions enhance respiratory motor output by inducing conserved mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and suggest a new mechanism that may contribute to coupling ventilation to metabolic demands in vertebrates. KEY POINTS: Lactate ions, independently of pH and metabolism, induce long-term increases in respiratory-related motor outflow in American bullfrogs. Lactate triggers a persistent increase in strength of AMPA-glutamatergic synapses onto respiratory motor neurons. Long-term plasticity of motor output and synaptic strength by lactate involves L-type Ca2+ channels and NMDA-receptors as part of the transduction process. Enhanced AMPA receptor function in response to lactate in the intact network is causal for motor plasticity. In sum, well-conserved synaptic plasticity mechanisms couple the brainstem lactate ion concentration to respiratory motor drive in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Bueschke
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Lara Amaral-Silva
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Joseph M Santin
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, USA
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Hess S, Pouzat C, Paeger L, Pippow A, Kloppenburg P. Analysis of neuronal Ca 2+ handling properties by combining perforated patch clamp recordings and the added buffer approach. Cell Calcium 2021; 97:102411. [PMID: 34082340 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2021.102411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ca2+ functions as an important intracellular signal for a wide range of cellular processes. These processes are selectively activated by controlled spatiotemporal dynamics of the free cytosolic Ca2+. Intracellular Ca2+ dynamics are regulated by numerous cellular parameters. Here, we established a new way to determine neuronal Ca2+ handling properties by combining the 'added buffer' approach [1] with perforated patch-clamp recordings [2]. Since the added buffer approach typically employs the standard whole-cell configuration for concentration-controlled Ca2+ indicator loading, it only allows for the reliable estimation of the immobile fraction of intracellular Ca2+ buffers. Furthermore, crucial components of intracellular signaling pathways are being washed out during prolonged whole-cell recordings, leading to cellular deterioration. By combining the added buffer approach with perforated patch-clamp recordings, these issues are circumvented, allowing the precise quantification of the cellular Ca2+ handling properties, including immobile as well as mobile Ca2+ buffers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hess
- Institute for Zoology, Biocenter, Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), and Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christophe Pouzat
- Université de Paris, CNRS, MAP5 UMR 8145, 45, rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Lars Paeger
- Institute for Zoology, Biocenter, Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), and Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Pippow
- Institute for Zoology, Biocenter, Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), and Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Kloppenburg
- Institute for Zoology, Biocenter, Cologne Excellence Cluster in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD), and Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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10
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Matamoros M, Nichols CG. Pore-forming transmembrane domains control ion selectivity and selectivity filter conformation in the KirBac1.1 potassium channel. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:211923. [PMID: 33779689 PMCID: PMC8008366 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Potassium (K+) channels are membrane proteins with the remarkable ability to very selectively conduct K+ ions across the membrane. High-resolution structures have revealed that dehydrated K+ ions permeate through the narrowest region of the pore, formed by the backbone carbonyls of the signature selectivity filter (SF) sequence TxGYG. However, the existence of nonselective channels with similar SF sequences, as well as effects of mutations in other regions on selectivity, suggest that the SF is not the sole determinant of selectivity. We changed the selectivity of the KirBac1.1 channel by introducing mutations at residue I131 in transmembrane helix 2 (TM2). These mutations increase Na+ flux in the absence of K+ and introduce significant proton conductance. Consistent with K+ channel crystal structures, single-molecule FRET experiments show that the SF is conformationally constrained and stable in high-K+ conditions but undergoes transitions to dilated low-FRET states in high-Na+/low-K+ conditions. Relative to wild-type channels, I131M mutants exhibit marked shifts in the K+ and Na+ dependence of SF dynamics to higher K+ and lower Na+ concentrations. These results illuminate the role of I131, and potentially other structural elements outside the SF, in controlling ion selectivity, by suggesting that the physical interaction of these elements with the SF contributes to the relative stability of the constrained K+-induced SF configuration versus nonselective dilated conformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Matamoros
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Colin G Nichols
- Center for Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases, and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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11
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Valiunas V, White TW. Connexin43 and connexin50 channels exhibit different permeability to the second messenger inositol triphosphate. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8744. [PMID: 32457413 PMCID: PMC7251084 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65761-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels made of different connexins have distinct permeability to second messengers, which could affect many cell processes, including lens epithelial cell division. Here, we have compared the permeability of IP3 and Ca2+ through channels made from two connexins, Cx43 and Cx50, that are highly expressed in vertebrate lens epithelial cells. Solute transfer was measured while simultaneously monitoring junctional conductance via dual whole-cell/perforated patch clamp. HeLa cells expressing Cx43 or Cx50 were loaded with Fluo-8, and IP3 or Ca2+ were delivered via patch pipette to one cell of a pair, or to a monolayer while fluorescence intensity changes were recorded. Cx43 channels were permeable to IP3 and Ca2+. Conversely, Cx50 channels were impermeable to IP3, while exhibiting high permeation of Ca2+. Reduced Cx50 permeability to IP3 could play a role in regulating cell division and homeostasis in the lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- The Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Thomas W White
- The Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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12
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Lerchundi R, Huang N, Rose CR. Quantitative Imaging of Changes in Astrocytic and Neuronal Adenosine Triphosphate Using Two Different Variants of ATeam. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:80. [PMID: 32372916 PMCID: PMC7186936 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically encoded nanosensors such as the FRET-based adenosine triphosphate (ATP) sensor ATeam enable the measurement of changes in ATP levels inside cells, promoting our understanding of metabolic interactions between astrocytes and neurons. The sensors are usually well characterized in vitro but display altered properties when expressed inside cells, precluding a meaningful conversion of changes in FRET ratios into changes in intracellular ATP concentrations ([ATP]) on the basis of their in vitro properties. Here, we present an experimental strategy for the intracellular calibration of two different variants of ATeam in organotypic tissue slice culture of the mouse brain. After cell-type-specific expression of the sensors in astrocytes or neurons, slices were first perfused with a saline containing the saponin β-escin to permeabilize plasma membranes for ATP. Next, cells were depleted of ATP by perfusion with ATP-free saline containing metabolic inhibitors. Finally, ATP was re-added at defined concentrations and resulting changes in the FRET ratio recorded. When employing this protocol, ATeam1.03 expressed in astrocytes reliably responds to changes in [ATP], exhibiting an apparent KD of 9.4 mM. The high-affinity sensor ATeam1.03YEMK displayed a significantly lower intracellular KD of 2.7 mM. On the basis of these calibrations, we found that induction of a recurrent neuronal network activity resulted in an initial transient increase in astrocytic [ATP] by ~0.12 mM as detected by ATeam1.03YEMK, a result confirmed using ATeam1.03. In neurons, in contrast, [ATP] immediately started to decline upon initiation of a network activity, amounting to a decrease by an average of 0.29 mM after 2 min. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ATeam1.03YEMK and ATeam1.03 display a significant increase in their apparent KD when expressed inside cells as compared with in vitro. Moreover, they show that both ATeam variants enable the quantitative detection of changes of astrocytic and neuronal [ATP] in the physiological range. ATeam1.03YEMK, however, seems preferable because its KD is close to baseline ATP levels. Finally, our data support the idea that synchronized neuronal activity initially stimulates the generation of ATP in astrocytes, presumably through increased glycolysis, whereas ATP levels in neurons decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Lerchundi
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Na Huang
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christine R Rose
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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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.
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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
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Mann SA, Heide J, Knott T, Airini R, Epureanu FB, Deftu AF, Deftu AT, Radu BM, Amuzescu B. Recording of multiple ion current components and action potentials in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes via automated patch-clamp. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2019; 100:106599. [PMID: 31228558 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2019.106599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Comprehensive in vitro Proarrhythmia Assay (CiPA) initiative proposes a three-step approach to evaluate proarrhythmogenic liability of drug candidates: effects on individual ion channels in heterologous expression systems, integrating these data into in-silico models of the electrical activity of human cardiomyocytes, and comparison with experiments on human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CM). Here we introduce patch-clamp electrophysiology techniques on hiPSC-CM to combine two of the CiPA steps in one assay. METHODS We performed automated patch-clamp experiments on hiPSC-CM (Cor.4U®, Ncardia) using the CytoPatch™2 platform in ruptured whole-cell and β-escin-perforated-patch configurations. A combination of three voltage-clamp protocols allowed recording of five distinct ion current components (voltage-gated Na+ current, L-type Ca2+ current, transient outward K+ current, delayed rectifier K+ current, and "funny" hyperpolarization-activated current) from the same cell. We proved their molecular identity by either Na+ replacement with choline or by applying specific blockers: nifedipine, cisapride, chromanol 293B, phrixotoxin-1, ZD7288. We developed a C++ script for automated analysis of voltage-clamp recordings and computation of ion current/conductance surface density for these five cardiac ion currents. RESULTS The distributions from n = 54 hiPSC-CM in "ruptured" patch-clamp vs. n = 35 hiPSC-CM in β-escin-perforated patch-clamp were similar for membrane capacitance, access resistance, and ion current/conductance surface densities. The β-escin-perforated configuration resulted in improved stability of action potential (AP) shape and duration over a 10-min interval, with APD90 decay rate 0.7 ± 1.6%/min (mean ± SD, n = 4) vs. 4.6 ± 1.1%/min. (n = 3) for "ruptured" approach (p = 0.0286, one-tailed Mann-Whitney test). DISCUSSION The improved stability obtained here will allow development of CiPA-compliant automated patch-clamp assays on hiPSC-CM. Future applications include the study of multi ion-channel blocking properties of drugs using dynamic-clamp protocols, adding a valuable new tool to the arsenal of safety-pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan A Mann
- Cytocentrics Bioscience GmbH, Nattermannallee 1, 50829 Cologne, Germany
| | - Juliane Heide
- Cytocentrics Bioscience GmbH, Nattermannallee 1, 50829 Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Knott
- CytoBioScience Inc., 3463 Magic Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Razvan Airini
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Bogdan Epureanu
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru-Florian Deftu
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Antonia-Teona Deftu
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Beatrice Mihaela Radu
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Amuzescu
- Dept. Biophysics & Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, 050095 Bucharest, Romania.
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15
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Potassium channel selectivity filter dynamics revealed by single-molecule FRET. Nat Chem Biol 2019; 15:377-383. [PMID: 30833778 PMCID: PMC6430689 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-019-0240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Potassium (K) channels exhibit exquisite selectivity for conduction of K+ ions over other cations, particularly Na+. High-resolution structures reveal an archetypal selectivity filter (SF) conformation in which dehydrated K+ ions, but not Na+ ions, are perfectly coordinated. Using single-molecule FRET (smFRET), we show that the SF-forming loop (SF-loop) in KirBac1.1 transitions between constrained and dilated conformations as a function of ion concentration. The constrained conformation, essential for selective K+ permeability, is stabilized by K+ but not Na+ ions. Mutations that render channels nonselective result in dilated and dynamically unstable conformations, independent of the permeant ion. Further, while wild-type KirBac1.1 channels are K+ selective in physiological conditions, Na+ permeates in the absence of K+. Moreover, whereas K+ gradients preferentially support 86Rb+ fluxes, Na+ gradients preferentially support 22Na+ fluxes. This suggests differential ion selectivity in constrained versus dilated states, potentially providing a structural basis for this anomalous mole fraction effect.
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16
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Fontaine R, Hodne K, Weltzien FA. Healthy Brain-pituitary Slices for Electrophysiological Investigations of Pituitary Cells in Teleost Fish. J Vis Exp 2018:57790. [PMID: 30176004 PMCID: PMC6126815 DOI: 10.3791/57790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrophysiological investigations of pituitary cells have been conducted in numerous vertebrate species, but very few in teleost fish. Among these, the clear majority have been performed on dissociated primary cells. To improve our understanding of how teleost pituitary cells, behave in a more biologically relevant environment, this protocol shows how to prepare viable brain-pituitary slices using the small freshwater fish medaka (Oryzias latipes). Making the brain-pituitary slices, pH and osmolality of all solutions were adjusted to values found in body fluids of freshwater fish living at 25 to 28 °C. Following slice preparation, the protocol demonstrates how to conduct electrophysiological recordings using the perforated whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The patch-clamp technique is a powerful tool with unprecedented temporal resolution and sensitivity, allowing investigation of electrical properties from intact whole cells down to single ion channels. Perforated patch is unique in that it keeps the intracellular environment intact preventing regulatory elements in the cytosol from being diluted by the patch pipette electrode solution. In contrast, when performing traditional whole-cell recordings, it was observed that medaka pituitary cells quickly lose their ability to fire action potentials. Among the various perforation techniques available, this protocol demonstrates how to achieve perforation of the patched membrane using the fungicide Amphotericin B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Fontaine
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences
| | - Kjetil Hodne
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences
| | - Finn-Arne Weltzien
- Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences;
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17
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Ishihara K. External K + dependence of strong inward rectifier K + channel conductance is caused not by K + but by competitive pore blockade by external Na .. J Gen Physiol 2018; 150:977-989. [PMID: 29907600 PMCID: PMC6028490 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201711936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Strong inward rectifier K+ (sKir) channels determine the membrane potentials of many types of excitable and nonexcitable cells, most notably the resting potentials of cardiac myocytes. They show little outward current during membrane depolarization (i.e., strong inward rectification) because of the channel blockade by cytoplasmic polyamines, which depends on the deviation of the membrane potential from the K+ equilibrium potential (V - EK) when the extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]out) is changed. Because their open-channel conductance is apparently proportional to the "square root" of [K+]out, increases/decreases in [K+]out enhance/diminish outward currents through sKir channels at membrane potentials near their reversal potential, which also affects, for example, the repolarization and action-potential duration of cardiac myocytes. Despite its importance, however, the mechanism underlying the [K+]out dependence of the open sKir channel conductance has remained elusive. By studying Kir2.1, the canonical member of the sKir channel family, we first show that the outward currents of Kir2.1 are observed under the external K+-free condition when its inward rectification is reduced and that the complete inhibition of the currents at 0 [K+]out results solely from pore blockade caused by the polyamines. Moreover, the noted square-root proportionality of the open sKir channel conductance to [K+]out is mediated by the pore blockade by the external Na+, which is competitive with the external K+ Our results show that external K+ itself does not activate or facilitate K+ permeation through the open sKir channel to mediate the apparent external K+ dependence of its open channel conductance. The paradoxical increase/decrease in outward sKir channel currents during alternations in [K+]out, which is physiologically relevant, is caused by competition from impermeant extracellular Na.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Ishihara
- Department of Physiology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
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18
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Ikeda M, Yoshino M. Nitric oxide augments single persistent Na + channel currents via the cGMP/PKG signaling pathway in Kenyon cells isolated from cricket mushroom bodies. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:720-728. [PMID: 29742029 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00440.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic GMP signaling pathway has been suggested to be important in the formation of olfactory memory in insects. However, the molecular targets of the NO signaling cascade in the central neurons associated with olfactory learning and memory have not been fully analyzed. In this study, we investigated the effects of NO donors on single voltage-dependent Na+ channels in intrinsic neurons, called Kenyon cells, in the mushroom bodies in the brain of the cricket. Step depolarization on cell-attached patch membranes induces single-channel currents with fast-activating and -inactivating brief openings at the beginning of the voltage steps followed by more persistently recurring brief openings all along the 150-ms pulses. Application of the NO donor S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) increased the number of channel openings of both types of single Na+ channels. This excitatory effect of GSNO on the activity of these Na+ channels was diminished by KT5823, an inhibitor of protein kinase G (PKG), indicating an involvement of PKG in the downstream pathway of NO. Application of KT5823 alone decreased the activity of the persistent Na+ channels without significant effects on the fast-inactivating Na+ channels. The membrane-permeable cGMP analog 8Br-cGMP increased the number of channel openings of both types of single Na+ channels, similar to the action of NO. Taken together, these results indicate that NO acts as a critical modulator of both fast-inactivating and persistent Na+ channels and that persistent Na+ channels are constantly upregulated by the endogenous cGMP/PKG signaling cascade. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study clarified that nitric oxide (NO) increases the activity of both fast-inactivating and persistent Na+ channels via the cGMP/PKG signaling cascade in cricket Kenyon cells. The persistent Na+ channels are also found to be upregulated constantly by endogenous cGMP/PKG signaling. On the basis of the present results and the results of previous studies, we propose a hypothetical model explaining NO production and NO-dependent memory formation in cricket large Kenyon cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Ikeda
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Masami Yoshino
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University , Tokyo , Japan
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19
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Neumaier F, Alpdogan S, Hescheler J, Schneider T. Protein phosphorylation maintains the normal function of cloned human Ca v2.3 channels. J Gen Physiol 2018; 150:491-510. [PMID: 29453293 PMCID: PMC5839719 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201711880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cav2.3 Ca2+ channels are subject to cytosolic regulation, which has been difficult to characterize in native cells. Neumaier et al. demonstrate the role of phosphorylation in the function of these channels and suggest a close relationship between voltage dependence and the phosphorylation state. R-type currents mediated by native and recombinant Cav2.3 voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) exhibit facilitation (run-up) and subsequent decline (run-down) in whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. A better understanding of the two processes could provide insight into constitutive modulation of the channels in intact cells, but low expression levels and the need for pharmacological isolation have prevented investigations in native systems. Here, to circumvent these limitations, we use conventional and perforated-patch-clamp recordings in a recombinant expression system, which allows us to study the effects of cell dialysis in a reproducible manner. We show that the decline of currents carried by human Cav2.3+β3 channel subunits during run-down is related to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion, which reduces the number of functional channels and leads to a progressive shift of voltage-dependent gating to more negative potentials. Both effects can be counteracted by hydrolysable ATP, whose protective action is almost completely prevented by inhibition of serine/threonine but not tyrosine or lipid kinases. Protein kinase inhibition also mimics the effects of run-down in intact cells, reduces the peak current density, and hyperpolarizes the voltage dependence of gating. Together, our findings indicate that ATP promotes phosphorylation of either the channel or an associated protein, whereas dephosphorylation during cell dialysis results in run-down. These data also distinguish the effects of ATP on Cav2.3 channels from those on other VGCCs because neither direct nucleotide binding nor PIP2 synthesis is required for protection from run-down. We conclude that protein phosphorylation is required for Cav2.3 channel function and could directly influence the normal features of current carried by these channels. Curiously, some of our findings also point to a role for leupeptin-sensitive proteases in run-up and possibly ATP protection from run-down. As such, the present study provides a reliable baseline for further studies on Cav2.3 channel regulation by protein kinases, phosphatases, and possibly proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Neumaier
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Serdar Alpdogan
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hescheler
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Toni Schneider
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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20
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Tang ZQ, Lu Y. Anatomy and Physiology of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Mammalian and Avian Auditory System. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 1. [PMID: 30854519 DOI: 10.24966/tap-7752/100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate, as the major excitatory neurotransmitter used in the vertebrate brain, activates ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs and mGluRs), which mediate fast and slow neuronal actions, respectively. mGluRs play important modulatory roles in many brain areas, forming potential targets for drugs developed to treat brain disorders. Here, we review studies on mGluRs in the mammalian and avian auditory system. Although anatomical expression of mGluRs in the cochlear nucleus has been well characterized, data for other auditory nuclei await more systematic investigations especially at the electron microscopy level. The physiology of mGluRs has been extensively studied using in vitro brain slice preparations, with a focus on the auditory circuitry in the brainstem. These in vitro physiological studies have demonstrated that mGluRs participate in synaptic transmission, regulate ionic homeostasis, induce synaptic plasticity, and maintain the balance between Excitation and Inhibition (E/I) in a variety of auditory structures. However, the modulatory roles of mGluRs in auditory processing remain largely unclear at the system and behavioral levels, and the functions of mGluRs in auditory disorders remain entirely unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Quan Tang
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Oregon, USA
| | - Yong Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Ohio, USA
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21
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Non-photonic sensing of membrane-delimited reactive species with a Na + channel protein containing selenocysteine. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46003. [PMID: 28378799 PMCID: PMC5381000 DOI: 10.1038/srep46003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Photonic experiments are of key importance in life sciences but light-induced side effects are serious confounding factors. Here we introduce roNaV2, an engineered voltage-gated Na+ channel harboring a selenocysteine in its inactivation motif, as a non-photonic, sensitive, gateable, and reversible sensor for membrane-delimited reactive species. roNaV2 allows for the assessment of chemical modification induced in fluorescence microscopy settings with high sensitivity and time resolution and it demonstrates the usefulness of ion channels as highly sensitive reporters of membrane processes.
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22
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Direct Evidence for Daily Plasticity of Electrical Coupling between Rod Photoreceptors in the Mammalian Retina. J Neurosci 2016; 36:178-84. [PMID: 26740659 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3301-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Rod photoreceptors are electrically coupled through gap junctions. Coupling is a key determinant of their light response properties, but whether rod electrical coupling is dynamically regulated remains elusive and controversial. Here, we have obtained direct measurements of the conductance between adjacent rods in mouse retina and present evidence that rod electrical coupling strength is dependent on the time of day, the lighting conditions, and the mouse strain. Specifically, we show in CBA/Ca mice that under circadian conditions, the rod junctional conductance has a median value of 98 pS during the subjective day and of 493 pS during the subjective night. In C57BL/6 mice, the median junctional conductance between dark-adapted rods is ∼140 pS, regardless of the time in the circadian cycle. Adaptation to bright light decreases the rod junctional conductance to ∼0 pS, regardless of the time of day or the mouse strain. Together, these results establish the high degree of plasticity of rod electrical coupling over the course of the day. Estimates of the rod coupling strength will provide a foundation for further investigations of rod interactions and the role of rod coupling in the ability of the visual system to anticipate, assimilate, and respond to the daily changes in ambient light intensity. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Many cells in the CNS communicate via gap junctions, or electrical synapses, the regulation of which remains largely unknown. Here, we show that the strength of electrical coupling between rod photoreceptors of the retina is regulated by the time of day and the lighting conditions. This mechanism may help us understand some key aspects of day and night vision as well as some visual malfunctions.
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Veenstra RD. Establishment of the Dual Whole Cell Recording Patch Clamp Configuration for the Measurement of Gap Junction Conductance. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1437:213-231. [PMID: 27207298 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3664-9_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The development of the patch clamp technique has enabled investigators to directly measure gap junction conductance between isolated pairs of small cells with resolution to the single channel level. The dual patch clamp recording technique requires specialized equipment and the acquired skill to reliably establish gigaohm seals and the whole cell recording configuration with high efficiency. This chapter describes the equipment needed and methods required to achieve accurate measurement of macroscopic and single gap junction channel conductances. Inherent limitations with the dual whole cell recording technique and methods to correct for series access resistance errors are defined as well as basic procedures to determine the essential electrical parameters necessary to evaluate the accuracy of gap junction conductance measurements using this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard D Veenstra
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, 3162 Weiskotten Hall, 766 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA.
- Department Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, 3162 Weiskotten Hall, 766 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA.
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Santa Cruz A, Meşe G, Valiuniene L, Brink PR, White TW, Valiunas V. Altered conductance and permeability of Cx40 mutations associated with atrial fibrillation. J Gen Physiol 2015; 146:387-98. [PMID: 26503720 PMCID: PMC4621748 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201511475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions ensure the rapid propagation of the action potential throughout the myocardium. Three mutant forms of connexin40 (Cx40; A96S, M163V, and G38D), the primary component of the atrial gap junction channel, are associated with atrial fibrillation and retain the ability to form functional channels. We determined the biophysical properties of these mutant gap junctions in transiently transfected HeLa and N2A cells. All three mutants showed macroscopic junctional conductances over the range of 0.5 to 40 nS, and voltage dependences comparable to those of wild-type (WT) Cx40. However, the unitary conductance of G38D channels was ∼1.6-fold higher than that of WT Cx40 channels (∼220 vs. ∼135 pS), whereas the unitary conductances of the A96S and M163V mutants were similar to that of WT Cx40. Furthermore, the M163V and G38D channels exhibited approximately two- and approximately fivefold higher permeability to the anionic dye Lucifer yellow (LY) relative to K+ (LY/K+) compared with that of WT Cx40, whereas A96S LY transfer was similar to that of WT (G38D > M163V > A96S ≈ Cx40WT). In contrast, G38D channels were almost impermeable to cationic ethidium bromide (EtBr), suggesting that G38D alters channel selectivity. Conversely, A96S and M163V channels showed enhanced EtBr permeability relative to WT Cx40, with the following permeability order: M163V > A96S > Cx40WT > G38D. Altered conductive and permeability properties of mutant channels suggest an essential role for Cx40-mediated biochemical and electrical coupling in cardiac tissues. The altered properties of the three single-base substitution mutants may play a role in mechanisms of reentry arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Santa Cruz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Gülistan Meşe
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Laima Valiuniene
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Peter R Brink
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Virginijus Valiunas
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
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Inoue S, Murata K, Tanaka A, Kakuta E, Tanemura S, Hatakeyama S, Nakamura A, Yamamoto C, Hasebe M, Kosakai K, Yoshino M. Ionic channel mechanisms mediating the intrinsic excitability of Kenyon cells in the mushroom body of the cricket brain. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 68:44-57. [PMID: 24995840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Intrinsic neurons within the mushroom body of the insect brain, called Kenyon cells, play an important role in olfactory associative learning. In this study, we examined the ionic mechanisms mediating the intrinsic excitability of Kenyon cells in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus. A perforated whole-cell clamp study using β-escin indicated the existence of several inward and outward currents. Three types of inward currents (INaf, INaP, and ICa) were identified. The transient sodium current (INaf) activated at -40 mV, peaked at -26 mV, and half-inactivated at -46.7 mV. The persistent sodium current (INaP) activated at -51 mV, peaked at -23 mV, and half-inactivated at -30.7 mV. Tetrodotoxin (TTX; 1 μM) completely blocked both INaf and INaP, but 10nM TTX blocked INaf more potently than INaP. Cd(2+) (50 μM) potently blocked INaP with little effect on INaf. Riluzole (>20 μM) nonselectively blocked both INaP and INaf. The voltage-dependent calcium current (ICa) activated at -30 mV, peaked at -11.3 mV, and half-inactivated at -34 mV. The Ca(2+) channel blocker verapamil (100 μM) blocked ICa in a use-dependent manner. Cell-attached patch-clamp recordings showed the presence of a large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channel, and the activity of this channel was decreased by removing the extracellular Ca(2+) or adding verapamil or nifedipine, and increased by adding the Ca(2+) agonist Bay K8644, indicating that Ca(2+) entry via the L-type Ca(2+) channel regulates BK channel activity. Under the current-clamp condition, membrane depolarization generated membrane oscillations in the presence of 10nM TTX or 100 μM riluzole in the bath solution. These membrane oscillations disappeared with 1 μM TTX, 50 μM Cd(2+), replacement of external Na(+) with choline, and blockage of Na(+)-activated K(+) current (IKNa) with 50 μM quinidine, indicating that membrane oscillations are primarily mediated by INaP in cooperation with IKNa. The plateau potentials observed either in Ca(2+)-free medium or in the presence of verapamil were eliminated by blocking INaP with 50 μM Cd(2+). Taken together, these results indicate that INaP and IKNa participate in the generation of membrane oscillations and that INaP additionally participates in the generation of plateau potentials and initiation of spontaneous action potentials. ICa, through L-type Ca(2+) channels, was also found to play a role in the rapid membrane repolarization of action potentials by functional coupling with BK channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Inoue
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaoru Murata
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aiko Tanaka
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Kakuta
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Saori Tanemura
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Masaharu Hasebe
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kumiko Kosakai
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masami Yoshino
- Department of Biology, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan.
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Lu Y. Metabotropic glutamate receptors in auditory processing. Neuroscience 2014; 274:429-45. [PMID: 24909898 PMCID: PMC5299851 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.05.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
As the major excitatory neurotransmitter used in the vertebrate brain, glutamate activates ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), which mediate fast and slow neuronal actions, respectively. Important modulatory roles of mGluRs have been shown in many brain areas, and drugs targeting mGluRs have been developed for the treatment of brain disorders. Here, I review studies on mGluRs in the auditory system. Anatomical expression of mGluRs in the cochlear nucleus has been well characterized, while data for other auditory nuclei await more systematic investigations at both the light and electron microscopy levels. The physiology of mGluRs has been extensively studied using in vitro brain slice preparations, with a focus on the lower auditory brainstem in both mammals and birds. These in vitro physiological studies have revealed that mGluRs participate in neurotransmission, regulate ionic homeostasis, induce synaptic plasticity, and maintain the balance between excitation and inhibition in a variety of auditory structures. However, very few in vivo physiological studies on mGluRs in auditory processing have been undertaken at the systems level. Many questions regarding the essential roles of mGluRs in auditory processing still remain unanswered and more rigorous basic research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA.
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Mitochondrial hyperpolarization during chronic complex I inhibition is sustained by low activity of complex II, III, IV and V. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2014; 1837:1247-56. [PMID: 24769419 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2014.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system consists of four electron transport chain (ETC) complexes (CI-CIV) and the FoF1-ATP synthase (CV), which sustain ATP generation via chemiosmotic coupling. The latter requires an inward-directed proton-motive force (PMF) across the mitochondrial inner membrane (MIM) consisting of a proton (ΔpH) and electrical charge (Δψ) gradient. CI actively participates in sustaining these gradients via trans-MIM proton pumping. Enigmatically, at the cellular level genetic or inhibitor-induced CI dysfunction has been associated with Δψ depolarization or hyperpolarization. The cellular mechanism of the latter is still incompletely understood. Here we demonstrate that chronic (24h) CI inhibition in HEK293 cells induces a proton-based Δψ hyperpolarization in HEK293 cells without triggering reverse-mode action of CV or the adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT). Hyperpolarization was associated with low levels of CII-driven O2 consumption and prevented by co-inhibition of CII, CIII or CIV activity. In contrast, chronic CIII inhibition triggered CV reverse-mode action and induced Δψ depolarization. CI- and CIII-inhibition similarly reduced free matrix ATP levels and increased the cell's dependence on extracellular glucose to maintain cytosolic free ATP. Our findings support a model in which Δψ hyperpolarization in CI-inhibited cells results from low activity of CII, CIII and CIV, combined with reduced forward action of CV and ANT.
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A hydrophilic polymer based microfluidic system with planar patch clamp electrode array for electrophysiological measurement from cells. Biosens Bioelectron 2014; 53:187-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2013.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Ojha NK, Nematian-Ardestani E, Neugebauer S, Borowski B, El-Hussein A, Hoshi T, Leipold E, Heinemann SH. Sodium channels as gateable non-photonic sensors for membrane-delimited reactive species. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2014; 1838:1412-9. [PMID: 24513256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2014.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Revised: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) play crucial roles in physiological processes. While excessive ROS damages cells, small fluctuations in ROS levels represent physiological signals important for vital functions. Despite the physiological importance of ROS, many fundamental questions remain unanswered, such as which types of ROS occur in cells, how they distribute inside cells, and how long they remain in an active form. The current study presents a ratiometric sensor of intracellular ROS levels based on genetically engineered voltage-gated sodium channels (roNaV). roNaV can be used for detecting oxidative modification that occurs near the plasma membrane with a sensitivity similar to existing fluorescence-based ROS sensors. Moreover, roNaV has several advantages over traditional sensors because it does not need excitation light for sensing, and thus, can be used to detect phototoxic cellular modifications. In addition, the ROS dynamic range of roNaV is easily manipulated in real time by means of the endogenous channel inactivation mechanism. Measurements on ROS liberated from intracellular Lucifer Yellow and genetically encoded KillerRed have revealed an assessment of ROS lifetime in individual mammalian cells. Flashlight-induced ROS concentration decayed with two major time constants of about 10 and 1000 ms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navin K Ojha
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Ehsan Nematian-Ardestani
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Sophie Neugebauer
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Benjamin Borowski
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Ahmed El-Hussein
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; The National Institute of Laser Enhanced Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Toshinori Hoshi
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Enrico Leipold
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefan H Heinemann
- Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, & Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
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Abstract
The past decade has seen increasing use of the patch-clamp technique on neutrophils and eosinophils. The main goal of these electrophysiological studies has been to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the phagocyte respiratory burst. NADPH oxidase activity, which defines the respiratory burst in granulocytes, is electrogenic because electrons from NADPH are transported across the cell membrane, where they reduce oxygen to form superoxide anion (O2 (-)). This passage of electrons comprises an electrical current that would rapidly depolarize the membrane if the charge movement were not balanced by proton efflux. The patch-clamp technique enables simultaneous recording of NADPH oxidase-generated electron current and H(+) flux through the closely related H(+) channel. Increasing evidence suggests that other ion channels may play crucial roles in degranulation, phagocytosis, and chemotaxis, highlighting the importance of electrophysiological studies to advance knowledge of granulocyte function. Several configurations of the patch-clamp technique exist. Each has advantages and limitations that are discussed here. Meaningful measurements of ion channels cannot be achieved without an understanding of their fundamental properties. We describe the types of measurements that are necessary to characterize a particular ion channel.
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Monfredi O, Maltseva LA, Spurgeon HA, Boyett MR, Lakatta EG, Maltsev VA. Beat-to-Beat Variation in Periodicity of Local Calcium Releases Contributes to Intrinsic Variations of Spontaneous Cycle Length in Isolated Single Sinoatrial Node Cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67247. [PMID: 23826247 PMCID: PMC3695077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous, submembrane local Ca2+ releases (LCRs) generated by the sarcoplasmic reticulum in sinoatrial nodal cells, the cells of the primary cardiac pacemaker, activate inward Na+/Ca2+-exchange current to accelerate the diastolic depolarization rate, and therefore to impact on cycle length. Since LCRs are generated by Ca2+ release channel (i.e. ryanodine receptor) openings, they exhibit a degree of stochastic behavior, manifested as notable cycle-to-cycle variations in the time of their occurrence. Aim The present study tested whether variation in LCR periodicity contributes to intrinsic (beat-to-beat) cycle length variability in single sinoatrial nodal cells. Methods We imaged single rabbit sinoatrial nodal cells using a 2D-camera to capture LCRs over the entire cell, and, in selected cells, simultaneously measured action potentials by perforated patch clamp. Results LCRs begin to occur on the descending part of the action potential-induced whole-cell Ca2+ transient, at about the time of the maximum diastolic potential. Shortly after the maximum diastolic potential (mean 54±7.7 ms, n = 14), the ensemble of waxing LCR activity converts the decay of the global Ca2+ transient into a rise, resulting in a late, whole-cell diastolic Ca2+ elevation, accompanied by a notable acceleration in diastolic depolarization rate. On average, cells (n = 9) generate 13.2±3.7 LCRs per cycle (mean±SEM), varying in size (7.1±4.2 µm) and duration (44.2±27.1 ms), with both size and duration being greater for later-occurring LCRs. While the timing of each LCR occurrence also varies, the LCR period (i.e. the time from the preceding Ca2+ transient peak to an LCR’s subsequent occurrence) averaged for all LCRs in a given cycle closely predicts the time of occurrence of the next action potential, i.e. the cycle length. Conclusion Intrinsic cycle length variability in single sinoatrial nodal cells is linked to beat-to-beat variations in the average period of individual LCRs each cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Monfredi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, National Institute on Aging - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Larissa A. Maltseva
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, National Institute on Aging - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Harold A. Spurgeon
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, National Institute on Aging - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mark R. Boyett
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Edward G. Lakatta
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, National Institute on Aging - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Victor A. Maltsev
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, National Institute on Aging - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Valiunas V. Cyclic nucleotide permeability through unopposed connexin hemichannels. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:75. [PMID: 23760880 PMCID: PMC3674318 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a well-known intracellular and intercellular second messenger. The membrane permeability of such molecules has potential importance for autocrine-like or paracrine-like delivery. Here experiments have been designed to demonstrate whether gap junction hemichannels, composed of connexins, are a possible entrance pathway for cyclic nucleotides into the interior of cells. HeLa cells stably expressing connexin43 (Cx43) and connexin26 (Cx26) were used to study the cyclic nucleotide permeability of gap junction hemichannels. For the detection of cAMP uptake, the cells were transfected using the cyclic nucleotide-modulated channel from sea urchin sperm (SpIH) as the cAMP sensor. SpIH derived currents (Im) were recorded in whole-cell/perforated patch clamp configuration. Perfusion of the cells in an external K+ aspartate- (KAsp) solution containing 500 μM cAMP and no extracellular Ca2+, yielded a five to sevenfold increase in the Im current level. The SpIH current increase was associated with detectable hemichannel current activity. Depolarization of cells in Ca2+-free NaCl perfusate with 500 μM cAMP also induced a SpIH current increase. Elevating extracellular Ca2+ to mM levels inhibited hemichannel activity. Perfusion with a depolarizing KAsp solution containing 500 μM cAMP and 2 mM Ca2+ did not increase SpIH currents. The addition of the gap junction blocker carbenoxolone to the external solution inhibited cAMP uptake. Both cell depolarization and lowered extracellular Ca2+ increase the open probability of non-junctional hemichannels. Accordingly, the SpIH current augmentation was induced by the uptake of extracellular cAMP via open membrane hemichannels in Cx43 and Cx26 expressing cells. The data presented here show that hemichannels of Cx43 and Cx26 are permeable to cAMP, and further the data suggest that hemichannels are, in fact, a potential pathway for cAMP mediated cell-to-cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Hiyama TY, Yoshida M, Matsumoto M, Suzuki R, Matsuda T, Watanabe E, Noda M. Endothelin-3 expression in the subfornical organ enhances the sensitivity of Na(x), the brain sodium-level sensor, to suppress salt intake. Cell Metab 2013; 17:507-19. [PMID: 23541371 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2013.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Salt homeostasis is essential to survival, but brain mechanisms for salt-intake control have not been fully elucidated. Here, we found that the sensitivity of Na(x) channels to [Na(+)](o) is dose-dependently enhanced by endothelin-3 (ET-3). Na(x) channels began to open when [Na(+)](o) exceeded ~150 mM without ET-3, but opened fully at a physiological [Na(+)](o) (135–145 mM) with 1 nM ET-3. Importantly, ET-3 was expressed in the subfornical organ (SFO) along with Nax, and the level was robustly increased by dehydration. Pharmacological experiments revealed that endothelin receptor B (ET(B)R) signaling is involved in this modulation of Na(x) gating through protein kinase C and ERK1/2 activation. ET(B)R agonists increased the firing rate of GABAergic neurons via lactate in the SFO, and an ET(B)R antagonist attenuated salt aversion during dehydration. These results indicate that ET-3 expression in the SFO is tightly coupled with body-fluid homeostasis through modulation of the [Na(+)](o) sensitivity of Na(x).
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Y Hiyama
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
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Nakamura A, Yoshino M. A novel GABAergic action mediated by functional coupling between GABAB-like receptor and two different high-conductance K+ channels in cricket Kenyon cells. J Neurophysiol 2013; 109:1735-45. [PMID: 23303861 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00915.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA(B)) receptor has been shown to attenuate high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents and enhance voltage-dependent or inwardly rectifying K(+) currents in a variety of neurons. In this study, we report a novel coupling of GABA(B)-like receptor with two different high-conductance K(+) channels, Na(+)-activated K(+) (K(Na)) channel and Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (K(Ca)) channel, in Kenyon cells isolated from the mushroom body of the cricket brain. Single-channel activities of K(Na) and K(Ca) channels in response to bath applications of GABA and the GABA(B)-specific agonist SKF97541 were recorded with the cell-attached patch configuration. The open probability (P(o)) of both K(Na) and K(Ca) channels was found to be increased by bath application of GABA, and this increase in Po was antagonized by coapplication of the GABAB antagonist CGP54626, suggesting that GABA(B)-like receptors mediate these actions. Similarly, GABA(B)-specific agonist SKF97541 increased the Po of both K(Na) and K(Ca) channels. Perforated-patch recordings using β-escin further revealed that SKF97541 increased the amplitude of the outward currents elicited by step depolarizations. Under current-clamp conditions, SKF97541 decreased the firing frequency of spontaneous action potential (AP) and changed the AP waveform. The amplitude and duration of AP were decreased, whereas the afterhyperpolarization of AP was increased. Resting membrane potential, however, was not significantly altered by SKF97541. Taken together, these results suggest that GABA(B)-like receptor is functionally coupled with both K(Na) and K(Ca) channels and this coupling mechanism may serve to prevent AP formation and limit excitatory synaptic input.
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Graef JD, Benson LC, Sidach SS, Wei H, Lippiello PM, Bencherif M, Fedorov NB. Validation of a high-throughput, automated electrophysiology platform for the screening of nicotinic agonists and antagonists. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 18:116-27. [PMID: 22960782 DOI: 10.1177/1087057112457414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
High-throughput compound screening using electrophysiology-based assays represents an important tool for biomedical research and drug discovery programs. The recent development and availability of devices capable of performing high-throughput electrophysiology-based screening have brought the need to validate these tools by producing data that are consistent with results obtained with conventional electrophysiological methods. In this study, we compared the response properties of hα3β4 and hα4β2 nicotinic receptors to their endogenous ligand acetylcholine (ACh) using three separate electrophysiology platforms: Dynaflow (low-throughput, manual system), PatchXpress 7000A (medium-throughput automated platform), and IonWorks Barracuda (high-throughput automated platform). We found that despite the differences in methodological approaches between these technologies, the EC(50) values from the ACh dose-response curves were consistent between all three platforms. In addition, we have validated the IonWorks Barracuda for both competitive and uncompetitive inhibition assays by using the competitive nicotinic antagonist dihydro-beta-erythroidin (DHβE) and uncompetitive nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the utility of a custom-written algorithm for generating dose-response curves from multiple extrapolated current metrics that allows for discriminating between competitive and uncompetitive inhibition while maintaining high-throughput capacity. This study provides validation of the consistency of results using low-, medium-, and high-throughput electrophysiology platforms and supports their use for screening nicotinic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Graef
- Targacept Inc., Preclinical Department, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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Morton MJ, Main MJ. Use of escin as a perforating agent on the IonWorks quattro automated electrophysiology platform. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 18:128-34. [PMID: 22923788 DOI: 10.1177/1087057112456599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The automated electrophysiology platform IonWorks has facilitated the medium-throughput study of ion channel biology and pharmacology. Electrical and chemical access to the cell is by perforated patch, afforded by amphotericin. Permeation of the amphotericin pore is limited to monovalent cations. We describe here the use of the saponin escin as an alternative perforating agent. With respect to the number and robustness of seals formed across a variety of cell and ion channel types, the performance of escin is equal to that of amphotericin. Escin also permits the permeation of larger molecules through its pore. These include nucleotides, important intracellular modulators of ion channel activity that can be used to prevent ion channel rundown of, for instance, Ca(V)1.2. Furthermore, pharmacologic agents such as QX314 can also permeate and be used for mechanistic studies. Escin, in combination with IonWorks, increases the scope of ion channel screening and can facilitate the assay of previously difficult-to-assay targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Morton
- Global Ion Channel Initiative, AstraZeneca UK, R&D Alderley Park, Macclesfield, UK.
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Effects of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II inhibitor, KN-93, on electrophysiological features of rabbit hypertrophic cardiac myocytes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 32:485-489. [PMID: 22886958 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-012-0084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is an independent risk factor for sudden cardiac death in clinical settings and the incidence of sudden cardiac death and ventricular arrhythmias are closely related. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK) II inhibitor, KN-93, on L-type calcium current (I(Ca, L)) and early after-depolarizations (EADs) in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes. A rabbit model of myocardial hypertrophy was constructed through abdominal aortic coarctation (LVH group). The control group (sham group) received a sham operation, in which the abdominal aortic was dissected but not coarcted. Eight weeks later, the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was evaluated using echocardiography. Individual cardiomyocyte was isolated through collagenase digestion. Action potentials (APs) and I(Ca, L) were recorded using the perforated patch clamp technique. APs were recorded under current clamp conditions and I(Ca, L) was recorded under voltage clamp conditions. The incidence of EADs and I(ca, L) in the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes were observed under the conditions of low potassium (2 mmol/L), low magnesium (0.25 mmol/L) Tyrode's solution perfusion, and slow frequency (0.25-0.5 Hz) electrical stimulation. The incidence of EADs and I(ca, L) in the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes were also evaluated after treatment with different concentrations of KN-92 (KN-92 group) and KN-93 (KN-93 group). Eight weeks later, the model was successfully established. Under the conditions of low potassium, low magnesium Tyrode's solution perfusion, and slow frequency electrical stimulation, the incidence of EADs was 0/12, 11/12, 10/12, and 5/12 in sham group, LVH group, KN-92 group (0.5 μmol/L), and KN-93 group (0.5 μmol/L), respectively. When the drug concentration was increased to 1 μmol/L in KN-92 group and KN-93 group, the incidence of EADs was 10/12 and 2/12, respectively. At 0 mV, the current density was 6.7±1.0 and 6.3±0.7 PA·PF(-1) in LVH group and sham group, respectively (P>0.05, n=12). When the drug concentration was 0.5 μmol/L in KN-92 and KN-93 groups, the peak I(Ca, L) at 0 mV was decreased by (9.4±2.8)% and (10.5±3.0)% in the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes of the two groups, respectively (P>0.05, n=12). When the drug concentration was increased to 1 μmol/L, the peak I(Ca, L) values were lowered by (13.4±3.7)% and (40±4.9)%, respectively (P<0.01, n=12). KN-93, a specific inhibitor of CaMKII, can effectively inhibit the occurrence of EADs in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes partially by suppressing I(Ca, L), which may be the main action mechanism of KN-93 antagonizing the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in hypertrophic myocardium.
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Xu Q, Kopp RF, Chen Y, Yang JJ, Roe MW, Veenstra RD. Gating of connexin 43 gap junctions by a cytoplasmic loop calmodulin binding domain. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2012; 302:C1548-56. [PMID: 22422398 PMCID: PMC3361999 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00319.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Calmodulin (CaM) binding sites were recently identified on the cytoplasmic loop (CL) of at least three α-subfamily connexins (Cx43, Cx44, Cx50), while Cx40 does not have this putative CaM binding domain. The purpose of this study was to examine the functional relevance of the putative Cx43 CaM binding site on the Ca(2+)-dependent regulation of gap junction proteins formed by Cx43 and Cx40. Dual whole cell patch-clamp experiments were performed on stable murine Neuro-2a cells expressing Cx43 or Cx40. Addition of ionomycin to increase external Ca(2+) influx reduced Cx43 gap junction conductance (G(j)) by 95%, while increasing cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration threefold. By contrast, Cx40 G(j) declined by <20%. The Ca(2+)-induced decline in Cx43 G(j) was prevented by pretreatment with calmidazolium or reversed by the addition of 10 mM EGTA to Ca(2+)-free extracellular solution, if Ca(2+) chelation was commenced before complete uncoupling, after which g(j) was only 60% recoverable. The Cx43 CL(136-158) mimetic peptide, but not the scrambled control peptide, or Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent kinase II 290-309 inhibitory peptide also prevented the Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent decline of Cx43 G(j). Cx43 gap junction channel open probability decreased to zero without reductions in the current amplitudes during external Ca(2+)/ionomycin perfusion. We conclude that Cx43 gap junctions are gated closed by a Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent mechanism involving the carboxyl-terminal quarter of the connexin CL domain. This study provides the first evidence of intrinsic differences in the Ca(2+) regulatory properties of Cx43 and Cx40.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, 750 East Adams St., Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
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39
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Orta G, Ferreira G, José O, Treviño CL, Beltrán C, Darszon A. Human spermatozoa possess a calcium-dependent chloride channel that may participate in the acrosomal reaction. J Physiol 2012; 590:2659-75. [PMID: 22473777 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.224485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Motility, maturation and the acrosome reaction (AR) are fundamental functions of mammalian spermatozoa. While travelling through the female reproductive tract, spermatozoa must mature through a process named capacitation, so that they can reach the egg and undergo the AR, an exocytotic event necessary to fertilize the egg. Though Cl⁻ is important for sperm capacitation and for the AR, not much is known about the molecular identity of the Cl⁻ transporters involved in these processes.We implemented a modified perforated patch-clamp strategy to obtain whole cell recordings sealing on the head of mature human spermatozoa.Our whole cell recordings revealed the presence of a Ca²⁺-dependent Cl⁻ current. The biophysical characteristics of this current and its sensitivity to niflumic acid (NFA) and 4,4-diisothiocyano-2,2-stilbene disulphonic acid (DIDIS) are consistent with those displayed by the Ca²⁺-dependent Cl⁻ channel from the anoctamin family (TMEM16). Whole cell patch clamp recordings in the cytoplasmic droplet of human spermatozoa corroborated the presence of these currents, which were sensitive to NFA and to a small molecule TMEM16A inhibitor (TMEM16Ainh, an aminophenylthiazole). Importantly, the human sperm AR induced by a recombinant human glycoprotein from the zona pellucida, rhZP3, displayed a similar sensitivity to NFA, DIDS and TMEM16Ainh as the sperm Ca²⁺-dependent Cl⁻ currents. Our findings indicate the presence of Ca²⁺-dependent Cl⁻ currents in human spermatozoa, that TMEM16A may contribute to these currents and also that sperm Ca²⁺-dependent Cl⁻ currents may participate in the rhZP3-induced AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Orta
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP 62210, México
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40
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Aramuni G, Griesbeck O. Chronic calcium imaging in neuronal development and disease. Exp Neurol 2012; 242:50-6. [PMID: 22374357 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 12/05/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal circuits develop, adjust to experience and degenerate in response to injury or disease in the course of weeks and months. Available recording techniques, however, typically sample physiological properties of identified neurons on the time scale of minutes and hours. Thus, in order to obtain a full understanding of a long term physiological process data need to be extrapolated from numerous experimental sessions and animals, often collected blindly and under variable conditions. The generation and ongoing engineering of genetically encoded calcium indicators creates an opportunity to repeatedly record activity from the same individual neurons in vivo over weeks, months and potentially the entire lifetime of a model organism. Chronic calcium imaging with genetically encoded indicators thus may allow to establish functional biographies of identified neuronal cell types in the brain and to reveal the physiological relevance of structural changes as they occur under natural and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayane Aramuni
- Max-Planck-Institut für Neurobiologie, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
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41
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Ishibashi H, Moorhouse AJ, Nabekura J. Perforated Whole-Cell Patch-Clamp Technique: A User’s Guide. SPRINGER PROTOCOLS HANDBOOKS 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/978-4-431-53993-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
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42
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Xu C, Police S, Hassanipour M, Li Y, Chen Y, Priest C, O'Sullivan C, Laflamme MA, Zhu WZ, Van Biber B, Hegerova L, Yang J, Delavan-Boorsma K, Davies A, Lebkowski J, Gold JD. Efficient generation and cryopreservation of cardiomyocytes derived from human embryonic stem cells. Regen Med 2011; 6:53-66. [PMID: 21175287 DOI: 10.2217/rme.10.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) represent a novel cell source to treat diseases such as heart failure and for use in drug screening. In this study, we aim to promote efficient generation of cardiomyocytes from hESCs by combining the current optimal techniques of controlled growth of undifferentiated cells and specific induction for cardiac differentiation. We also aim to examine whether these methods are scalable and whether the differentiated cells can be cryopreserved. METHODS & RESULTS hESCs were maintained without conditioned medium or feeders and were sequentially treated with activin A and bone morphogenetic protein-4 in a serum-free medium. This led to differentiation into cell populations containing high percentages of cardiomyocytes. The differentiated cells expressed appropriate cardiomyocyte markers and maintained contractility in culture, and the majority of the cells displayed working chamber (atrial and ventricular) type electrophysiological properties. In addition, the cell growth and differentiation process was adaptable to large culture formats. Moreover, the cardiomyocytes survived following cryopreservation, and viable cardiac grafts were detected after transplantation of cryopreserved cells into rat hearts following myocardial infarctions. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate that cardiomyocytes of high quality can be efficiently generated and cryopreserved using hESCs maintained in serum-free medium, a step forward towards the application of these cells to human clinical use or drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Xu
- Geron Corporation, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA.
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43
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Ko ML, Shi L, Grushin K, Nigussie F, Ko GYP. Circadian profiles in the embryonic chick heart: L-type voltage-gated calcium channels and signaling pathways. Chronobiol Int 2011; 27:1673-96. [PMID: 20969517 DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2010.514631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Circadian clocks exist in the heart tissue and modulate multiple physiological events, from cardiac metabolism to contractile function and expression of circadian oscillator and metabolic-related genes. Ample evidence has demonstrated that there are endogenous circadian oscillators in adult mammalian cardiomyocytes. However, mammalian embryos cannot be entrained independently to light-dark (LD) cycles in vivo without any maternal influence, but circadian genes are well expressed and able to oscillate in embryonic stages. The authors took advantage of using chick embryos that are independent of maternal influences to investigate whether embryonic hearts could be entrained under LD cycles in ovo. The authors found circadian regulation of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs), the ion channels responsible for the production of cardiac muscle contraction in embryonic chick hearts. The mRNA levels and protein expression of VGCCα1C and VGCCα1D are under circadian control, and the average L-VGCC current density is significantly larger when cardiomyocytes are recorded during the night than day. The phosphorylation states of several kinases involved in insulin signaling and cardiac metabolism, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk), stress-activated protein kinase (p38), protein kinase B (Akt), and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), are also under circadian control. Both Erk and p38 have been implicated in regulating cardiac contractility and in the development of various pathological states, such as cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Even though both Erk and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling pathways participate in complex cellular processes regarding physiological or pathological states of cardiomyocytes, the circadian oscillators in the heart regulate these pathways independently, and both pathways contribute to the circadian regulation of L-VGCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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44
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Kanaporis G, Brink PR, Valiunas V. Gap junction permeability: selectivity for anionic and cationic probes. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2010; 300:C600-9. [PMID: 21148413 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00316.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction channels formed by different connexins exhibit specific permeability to a variety of larger solutes including second messengers, polypeptides, and small interfering RNAs. Here, we report the permeability of homotypic connexin26 (Cx26), Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45 gap junction channels stably expressed in HeLa cells to solutes with different size and net charge. Channel permeability was determined using simultaneous measurements of junctional conductance and the cell-cell flux of a fluorescent probe. All four connexins allowed passage of both cationic and anionic probes, but the transfer rates were connexin dependent. The negatively charged probes [Lucifer yellow (LY; median axial diameter 9.9 Å, charge -2), carboxyfluorescein (CF; 8.2 Å; -2), and Alexa Fluor350 (AF350, 5.4 Å; -1)] exhibited the following permeability order: Cx43 > Cx45 > Cx26 > Cx40. In contrast, for the positively charged species permeability, the orders were as follows: Cx26 ≈ Cx43 ≈ Cx40 ≈ Cx45 for N,N,N-trimethyl-2-[methyl-(7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiol-4-yl) amino] ethanaminium (NBD-m-TMA; 5.5 Å, +1) and Cx26 ≥ Cx43 ≈ Cx40 > Cx45 for ethidium bromide (10.3 Å, +1). Comparison of probe permeability relative to K(+) revealed that Cx43 and Cx45 exhibited similar permeability for NBD-m-TMA and AF350, indicating weak charge selectivity. However, lesser transfer of CF and LY through Cx45 relative to Cx43 channels suggests stronger size-dependent discrimination of solute. The permeability of NBD-m-TMA for Cx40 and Cx26 channels was approximately three times higher than to anionic AF350 despite the fact that both have similar minor diameters, suggesting charge selectivity. In conclusion, these results confirm that channels formed from individual connexins can discriminate for solutes based on size and charge, suggesting that channel selectivity may be a key factor in cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Kanaporis
- Dept. of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8661, USA
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45
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Xu H, Ginsburg KS, Hall DD, Zimmermann M, Stein IS, Zhang M, Tandan S, Hill JA, Horne MC, Bers D, Hell JW. Targeting of protein phosphatases PP2A and PP2B to the C-terminus of the L-type calcium channel Ca v1.2. Biochemistry 2010; 49:10298-307. [PMID: 21053940 PMCID: PMC3075818 DOI: 10.1021/bi101018c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The L-type Ca(2+) channel Ca(v)1.2 forms macromolecular signaling complexes that comprise the β(2) adrenergic receptor, trimeric G(s) protein, adenylyl cyclase, and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) for efficient signaling in heart and brain. The protein phosphatases PP2A and PP2B are part of this complex. PP2A counteracts increase in Ca(v)1.2 channel activity by PKA and other protein kinases, whereas PP2B can either augment or decrease Ca(v)1.2 currents in cardiomyocytes depending on the precise experimental conditions. We found that PP2A binds to two regions in the C-terminus of the central, pore-forming α(1) subunit of Ca(v)1.2: one region spans residues 1795-1818 and the other residues 1965-1971. PP2B binds immediately downstream of residue 1971. Injection of a peptide that contained residues 1965-1971 and displaced PP2A but not PP2B from endogenous Ca(v)1.2 increased basal and isoproterenol-stimulated L-type Ca(2+) currents in acutely isolated cardiomyocytes. Together with our biochemical data, these physiological results indicate that anchoring of PP2A at this site of Ca(v)1.2 in the heart negatively regulates cardiac L-type currents, likely by counterbalancing basal and stimulated phosphorylation that is mediated by PKA and possibly other kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242-1109, USA
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Hodne K, Haug TM, Weltzien FA. Single-cell qPCR on dispersed primary pituitary cells -an optimized protocol. BMC Mol Biol 2010; 11:82. [PMID: 21073722 PMCID: PMC2994858 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2199-11-82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 11/12/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of false positives is a potential problem in single-cell PCR experiments. This paper describes an optimized protocol for single-cell qPCR measurements in primary pituitary cell cultures following patch-clamp recordings. Two different cell harvesting methods were assessed using both the GH4 prolactin producing cell line from rat, and primary cell culture from fish pituitaries. Results Harvesting whole cells followed by cell lysis and qPCR performed satisfactory on the GH4 cell line. However, harvesting of whole cells from primary pituitary cultures regularly produced false positives, probably due to RNA leakage from cells ruptured during the dispersion of the pituitary cells. To reduce RNA contamination affecting the results, we optimized the conditions by harvesting only the cytosol through a patch pipette, subsequent to electrophysiological experiments. Two important factors proved crucial for reliable harvesting. First, silanizing the patch pipette glass prevented foreign extracellular RNA from attaching to charged residues on the glass surface. Second, substituting the commonly used perforating antibiotic amphotericin B with β-escin allowed efficient cytosol harvest without loosing the giga seal. Importantly, the two harvesting protocols revealed no difference in RNA isolation efficiency. Conclusion Depending on the cell type and preparation, validation of the harvesting technique is extremely important as contaminations may give false positives. Here we present an optimized protocol allowing secure harvesting of RNA from single cells in primary pituitary cell culture following perforated whole cell patch clamp experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjetil Hodne
- Norwegian School of Veterinary Science, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Oslo, Norway
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Wang Z, Do CW, Valiunas V, Leung CT, Cheng AKW, Clark AF, Wax MB, Chatterton JE, Civan MM. Regulation of gap junction coupling in bovine ciliary epithelium. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2010; 298:C798-806. [PMID: 20089928 PMCID: PMC2853215 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00406.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 01/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aqueous humor is formed by fluid transfer from the ciliary stroma sequentially across the pigmented ciliary epithelial (PE) cells, gap junctions, and nonpigmented ciliary epithelial (NPE) cells. Which connexins (Cx) contribute to PE-NPE gap junctional formation appears species specific. We tested whether small interfering RNA (siRNA) against Cx43 (siCx43) affects bovine PE-NPE communication and whether cAMP affects communication. Native bovine ciliary epithelial cells were studied by dual-cell patch clamping, Lucifer Yellow (LY) transfer, quantitative polymerase chain reaction with reverse transcription (qRT-PCR), and Western immunoblot. qRT-PCR revealed at least 100-fold greater expression for Cx43 than Cx40. siCx43 knocked down target mRNA expression by 55 +/- 7% after 24 h, compared with nontargeting control siRNA (NTC1) transfection. After 48 h, siCx43 reduced Cx43 protein expression and LY transfer. The ratio of fluorescence intensity (R(f)) in recipient to donor cell was 0.47 +/- 0.09 (n = 11) 10 min after whole cell patch formation in couplets transfected with NTC1. siCx43 decreased R(f) by approximately 60% to 0.20 +/- 0.07 (n = 13, P < 0.02). Dibutyryl-cAMP (500 microM) also reduced LY dye transfer by approximately 60%, reducing R(f) from 0.41 +/- 0.05 (n = 15) to 0.17 +/- 0.05 (n = 20) after 10 min. Junctional currents were lowered by approximately 50% (n = 6) after 10-min perfusion with 500 microM dibutyryl-cAMP (n = 6); thereafter, heptanol abolished the currents (n = 5). Preincubation with the PKA inhibitor H-89 (2 microM) prevented cAMP-triggered current reduction (n = 6). We conclude that 1) Cx43, but not Cx40, is a major functional component of bovine PE-NPE gap junctions; and 2) under certain conditions, cAMP may act through PKA to inhibit bovine PE-NPE gap junctional communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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del Pilar Gomez M, Nasi E. Prolonged calcium influx after termination of light-induced calcium release in invertebrate photoreceptors. J Gen Physiol 2009; 134:177-89. [PMID: 19720959 PMCID: PMC2737223 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.200910214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In microvillar photoreceptors, light stimulates the phospholipase C cascade and triggers an elevation of cytosolic Ca2+ that is essential for the regulation of both visual excitation and sensory adaptation. In some organisms, influx through light-activated ion channels contributes to the Ca2+ increase. In contrast, in other species, such as Lima, Ca2+ is initially only released from an intracellular pool, as the light-sensitive conductance is negligibly permeable to calcium ions. As a consequence, coping with sustained stimulation poses a challenge, requiring an alternative pathway for further calcium mobilization. We observed that after bright or prolonged illumination, the receptor potential of Lima photoreceptors is followed by the gradual development of an after-depolarization that decays in 1–4 minutes. Under voltage clamp, a graded, slow inward current (Islow) can be reproducibly elicited by flashes that saturate the photocurrent, and can reach a peak amplitude in excess of 200 pA. Islow obtains after replacing extracellular Na+ with Li+, guanidinium, or N-methyl-d-glucamine, indicating that it does not reflect the activation of an electrogenic Na/Ca exchange mechanism. An increase in membrane conductance accompanies the slow current. Islow is impervious to anion replacements and can be measured with extracellular Ca2+ as the sole permeant species; Ba can substitute for Ca2+ but Mg2+ cannot. A persistent Ca2+ elevation parallels Islow, when no further internal release takes place. Thus, this slow current could contribute to sustained Ca2+ mobilization and the concomitant regulation of the phototransduction machinery. Although reminiscent of the classical store depletion–operated calcium influx described in other cells, Islow appears to diverge in some significant aspects, such as its large size and insensitivity to SKF96365 and lanthanum; therefore, it may reflect an alternative mechanism for prolonged increase of cytosolic calcium in photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria del Pilar Gomez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Instituto de Genética, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia.
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49
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Chemoporation using saponins or cholates: an alternative method for transformation of bacterial cells. Biotechnol Lett 2009; 31:1943-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-009-0101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2009] [Revised: 07/27/2009] [Accepted: 07/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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50
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Ko ML, Jian K, Shi L, Ko GYP. Phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-Akt signaling serves as a circadian output in the retina. J Neurochem 2009; 108:1607-20. [PMID: 19166512 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.05931.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The daily rhythm of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) is part of the cellular mechanism underlying the circadian regulation of retina physiology and function. However, it is not completely understood how the circadian clock regulates L-VGCC current amplitudes without affecting channel gating properties. The phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway has been implicated in many vital cellular functions especially in trophic factor-induced ion channel trafficking and membrane insertion. Here, we report that PI3K-Akt signaling participates in the circadian phase-dependent modulation of L-VGCCs. We found that there was a circadian regulation of Akt phosphorylation on Thr308 that peaked at night. Inhibition of PI3K or Akt significantly decreased L-VGCC current amplitudes and the expression of membrane-bound L-VGCCalpha1D subunit only at night but not during the subjective day. Photoreceptors transfected with a dominant negative Ras had significantly less expression of phosphorylated Akt and L-VGCCalpha1D subunit compared with non-transfected photoreceptors. Interestingly, both PI3K-Akt and extracellular signal-related kinase were downstream of Ras, and they appeared to be parallel and equally important pathways to regulate L-VGCC rhythms. Inhibition of either pathway abolished the L-VGCC rhythm indicating that there were multiple mechanisms involved in the circadian regulation of L-VGCC rhythms in retina photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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