Magnesium and manganese ions modulate Ca2+ uptake and its energetic coupling in sarcoplasmic reticulum

Mn(2+) transport by Ca(2+) -ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum

Ca(2+) -ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum is known to pump Mn(2+) in addition to Ca(2+) , but whether its transport mechanism is identical to that of Ca(2+) is ambiguous. To clarify, we examined, by atomic absorption spectroscopy, competition between Mn(2+) and Ca(2+) in active transport using vesicles of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). Here, we demonstrate that Ca(2+) -ATPase transports Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) concomitantly but has a much lower affinity for Mn(2+) (apparent Kd ~ 0.5 mm). Stoichiometries of transported ions per ATP hydrolysed, Vmax values and activation energies are very similar. Altogether, Ca(2+) -ATPase appears to use the same mechanism for transporting Mn(2+) as that for Ca(2+) .

Engineering an effective Mn-binding MRI reporter protein by subcellular targeting

PURPOSE

Manganese (Mn) is an effective contrast agent and biologically active metal, which has been widely used for Mn-enhanced MRI (MEMRI). The purpose of this study was to develop and test a Mn binding protein for use as a genetic reporter for MEMRI.

METHODS

The bacterial Mn-binding protein, MntR was identified as a candidate reporter protein. MntR was engineered for expression in mammalian cells, and targeted to different subcellular organelles, including the Golgi Apparatus where cellular Mn is enriched. Transfected HEK293 cells and B16 melanoma cells were tested in vitro and in vivo, using immunocytochemistry, MR imaging and relaxometry.

RESULTS

Subcellular targeting of MntR to the cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus was verified with immunocytochemistry. After targeting to the Golgi, MntR expression produced robust R1 changes and T1 contrast in cells, in vitro and in vivo. Co-expression with the divalent metal transporter DMT1, a previously described Mn-based reporter, further enhanced contrast in B16 cells in culture, but in the in vivo B16 tumor model tested was not significantly better than MntR alone.

CONCLUSION

This second-generation reporter system both expands the capabilities of genetically encoded reporters for imaging with MEMRI and provides important insights into the mechanisms of Mn biology which create endogenous MEMRI contrast.

Manganese and the brain

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace metal that is pivotal for normal cell function and metabolism. Its homeostasis is tightly regulated; however, the mechanisms of Mn homeostasis are poorly characterized. While a number of proteins such as the divalent metal transporter 1, the transferrin/transferrin receptor complex, the ZIP family metal transporters ZIP-8 and ZIP-14, the secretory pathway calcium ATPases SPCA1 and SPCA2, ATP13A2, and ferroportin have been suggested to play a role in Mn transport, the degree that each of them contributes to Mn homeostasis has still to be determined. The recent discovery of SLC30A10 as a crucial Mn transporter in humans has shed further light on our understanding of Mn transport across the cell. Although essential, Mn is toxic at high concentrations. Mn neurotoxicity has been attributed to impaired dopaminergic (DAergic), glutamatergic and GABAergic transmission, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. As a result of preferential accumulation of Mn in the DAergic cells of the basal ganglia, particularly the globus pallidus, Mn toxicity causes extrapyramidal motor dysfunction. Firstly described as "manganism" in miners during the nineteenth century, this movement disorder resembles Parkinson's disease characterized by hypokinesia and postural instability. To date, a variety of acquired causes of brain Mn accumulation can be distinguished from an autosomal recessively inherited disorder of Mn metabolism caused by mutations in the SLC30A10 gene. Both, acquired and inherited hypermanganesemia, lead to Mn deposition in the basal ganglia associated with pathognomonic magnetic resonance imaging appearances of hyperintense basal ganglia on T1-weighted images. Current treatment strategies for Mn toxicity combine chelation therapy to reduce the body Mn load and iron (Fe) supplementation to reduce Mn binding to proteins that interact with both Mn and Fe. This chapter summarizes our current understanding of Mn homeostasis and the mechanisms of Mn toxicity and highlights the clinical disorders associated with Mn neurotoxicity.

Characterization of a Listeria monocytogenes Ca(2+) pump: a SERCA-type ATPase with only one Ca(2+)-binding site

We have characterized a putative Ca(2+)-ATPase from the pathogenic bacterium Listeria monocytogenes with the locus tag lmo0841. The purified and detergent-solubilized protein, which we have named Listeria monocytogenes Ca(2+)-ATPase 1 (LMCA1), performs a Ca(2+)-dependent ATP hydrolysis and actively transports Ca(2+) after reconstitution in dioleoylphosphatidyl-choline vesicles. Despite a high sequence similarity to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA1a) and plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA), LMCA1 exhibits important biochemical differences such as a low Ca(2+) affinity (K(0.5) ∼80 μm) and a high pH optimum (pH ∼9). Mutational studies indicate that the unusually high pH optimum can be partially ascribed to the presence of an arginine residue (Arg-795), corresponding in sequence alignments to the Glu-908 position at Ca(2+) binding site I of rabbit SERCA1a, but probably with an exposed position in LMCA1. The arginine is characteristic of a large group of putative bacterial Ca(2+)-ATPases. Moreover, we demonstrate that H(+) is countertransported with a transport stoichiometry of 1 Ca(2+) out and 1 H(+) in per ATP hydrolyzed. The ATPase may serve an important function by removing Ca(2+) from the microorganism in environmental conditions when e.g. stressed by high Ca(2+) and alkaline pH.

Contribution of intracellular Ca2+ stores to Ca2+ signaling during chemokinesis of human neutrophil granulocytes

Extracellular agonists increase the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c) by Ca2+ influx and by stimulating Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, mainly the endoplasmic reticulum and to a lesser extent also later compartments of the secretory pathway, particularly the Golgi. The Golgi takes up Ca2+ via Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ATPases (SERCAs) and the Secretory-Pathway Ca2+ATPases (SPCAs). The endogenous expression of SERCAs and SPCAs neutrophils was demonstrated by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Up till now, all cytosolic Ca2+ transients due to intracellular Ca2+ release have been found to originate from SERCA-dependent stores. We found that human neutrophils also present Ca2+ release from a SERCA-independent store. Changes in [Ca2+]c of neutrophils were investigated during chemokinesis induced by chemotactic factors in Ca2+-free solution with and without the SERCA-specific inhibitor thapsigargin. Using N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine or interleukin-8 as agonists, Ca2+ release from intracellular stores was observed in respectively about 40% and 20% of the neutrophils pre-treated with Ca2+-free solution and thapsigargin. In the latter condition, 20-30% of the cells preserved migratory behaviour. These results indicate that both SERCA-dependent and SERCA-independent (presumably SPCA-dependent) intracellular Ca2+ stores contribute to Ca2+ signaling during chemokinesis of human neutrophil granulocytes.

Caffeine inhibits InsP3 responses and capacitative calcium entry in canine pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

Caffeine is a well described and characterized ryanodine receptor (RyR) activator. Previous evidence from independent research studies also indicate caffeine inhibits InsP3 receptor functionality, which is important to activation of capacitative Ca2+ entry (CCE) in some cell types. In addition, RyR activation elicits excitatory-coupled Ca2+ entry (ECCE) in skeletal muscle myotubes. Recent studies by our group show that canine pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) have functional InsP3 receptors as well as RyRs, and that CCE is dependent on InsP3 receptor activity. The potential for caffeine to activate ECCE as well as inhibit InsP3 receptor function and CCE was examined using fura-2 fluorescent imaging in canine PASMCs. The data show caffeine causes transient as well as sustained cytosolic Ca2+ increases, though this is not due to CCE or ECCE activity as evidenced by a lack of an increase in Mn2+ quench of fura-2. The experiments also show caffeine reversibly inhibits 5-HT elicited-InsP3 mediated Ca2+ responses with an IC50 of 6.87x10(-4) M and 10 mM caffeine fully inhibits CCE. These studies provide the first evidence that caffeine is an inhibitor of InsP3 generated Ca2+ signals and CCE in PASMCs.

Hepatic cirrhosis, dystonia, polycythaemia and hypermanganesaemia--a new metabolic disorder

We report a new constellation of clinical features consisting of hypermanganesaemia, liver cirrhosis, an extrapyramidal motor disorder and polycythaemia in a 12 year-old girl born to consanguineous parents. Blood manganese levels were >3000 nmol/L (normal range <320 nmol/L) and MRI revealed signal abnormalities of the basal ganglia consistent with manganese deposition. An older brother with the same phenotype died at 18 years, suggesting a potentially lethal, autosomal recessive disease. This disorder is probably caused by a defect of manganese metabolism with the accumulation of manganese in the liver and the basal ganglia similar to the copper accumulation in Wilson disease. In order to assess the genetic basis of this syndrome we investigated two candidate genes: ATP2C2 and ATP2A3 encoding the manganese-transporting calcium-ATPases, SPCA2 and SERCA3, respectively. Genotyping of the patient and the family for microsatellite markers surrounding ATP2C2 and ATP2A3 excluded these genes. The patient was found to be heterozygous for both gene loci. Despite the unknown pathophysiology, we were able to develop a successful treatment regime. Chelation therapy with disodium calcium edetate combined with iron supplementation is the treatment of choice, lowering blood manganese levels significantly and improving clinical symptoms.

Astrocytes refill intracellular Ca2+ stores in the absence of cytoplasmic [Ca2+] elevation: a functional rather than a structural ability

Capacitative Ca(2+) entry (CCE) is a phenomenon triggered by depletion of Ca(2+) content in intracellular stores (ICS). Data about this phenomenon in astrocytes are limited. We analyzed CCE in astrocytes by means of fura-2 based digital imaging. We found that in astrocytes CCE is not associated with an increase of cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), although ICS are efficiently refilled. We used Mn(2+), thapsigargin and prolonged ATP exposure to show that CCE is not associated with cytosolic diffusion of Ca(2+) entering astrocytes. Our data suggest that the ion is being quickly sequestered in the ICS by the smooth endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATP-ase (SERCA). Several experiments were carried out with the goal of failing the efficient uptake in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In fact, inhibition of SERCA activity, increased extracellular [Ca(2+)](i) or pharmacologic potentiation of CCE all caused [Ca(2+)](i) elevation during CCE, suggesting that the control of this phenomenon could have physiologic and pathological relevance. The molecular components involved in CCE have been proposed to be organized in a multi-molecular complex tethered by cytoskeleton components and arranged via a secretion coupling model. We show here that the efficient routing of Ca(2+) into the ICS in astrocytes is not affected by disruption of cytoskeleton organization or Golgi's function, but it is instead linked to the high efficiency of SERCA. We conclude that depleted ICS in astrocytes are efficiently refilled by CCE activation, although Ca(2+) influx is not accompanied by elevation of [Ca(2+)](i). This ability seems to be functional rather than structural in nature.

Manganese depresses rat heart muscle respiration

It has previously been reported that moderately high dietary manganese (Mn) in combination with marginal magnesium (Mg) resulted in ultrastructural damage to heart mitochondria. Manganese may replace Mg in biological functions, including the role of enzyme cofactor. Manganese may accumulate and substitute for Mg during the condition of Mg-deficiency. The objective of the current study was to determine whether high Mn alters heart muscle respiration and Mg-enzyme activity as well as whole body Mn retention under marginal Mg. An additional objective was to determine whether high Mn results in increased oxidative stress. In experiment 1: forty-eight rats were fed a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement of Mn (10, 100, or 1000 mg/kg) and Mg (200 or 500 mg/kg). In experiment 2: thirty-two rats were fed one of four diets in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of Mn (10 or 250 mg/kg) and Mg (200 or 500 mg/kg). In experiment 3: thirty-two rats were fed one of four diets in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of Mn (10 or 650 mg/kg) and Mg (200 or 500 mg/kg). In experiment 2, high Mn and marginal Mg reduced (P<0.05) oxygen consumption of left ventricle muscle. Marginal Mg, but not Mn, reduced (P<0.05) activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase enzyme. Dietary Mg had no affect on (54)Mn kinetics, but high dietary Mn decreased (P<0.01) absorption, retention, and rate of excretion of (54)Mn. Neither cellular stress, measured by Comet assay, nor antioxidant activities were increased by high Mn. A strong interaction (P<0.001) between increasing Mn and adequate Mg on hematology was observed. These results confirm previous research in swine that high Mn alters myocardial integrity as well as function, but not as a result of altered calcium transport or oxidative stress.

Role of basal extracellular Ca2+ entry during 5-HT-induced vasoconstriction of canine pulmonary arteries

1. Measurements of artery contraction, cytosolic [Ca(2+)], and Ca(2+) permeability were made to examine contractile and cytosolic [Ca(2+)] responses of canine pulmonary arteries and isolated cells to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and to determine the roles of intracellular Ca(2+) release and extracellular Ca(2+) entry in 5-HT responses. 2. The EC(50) for 5-HT-mediated contractions and cytosolic [Ca(2+)] increases was approximately 10(-7) M and responses were inhibited by ketanserin, a 5-HT(2A)-receptor antagonist. 3. 5-HT induced cytosolic [Ca(2+)] increases were blocked by 20 microM Xestospongin-C and by 2-APB (IC(50)=32 microM inhibitors of InsP(3) receptor activation. 4. 5-HT-mediated contractions were reliant on release of InsP(3) but not ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+) stores. 5. 5-HT-mediated contractions and cytosolic [Ca(2+)] increases were partially inhibited by 10 microM nisoldipine, a voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel blocker. 6. Extracellular Ca(2+) removal reduced 5-HT-mediated contractions further than nisoldipine and ablated cytosolic [Ca(2+)] increases and [Ca(2+)] oscillations. Similar to Ca(2+) removal, Ni(2+) reduced cytosolic [Ca(2+)] and [Ca(2+)] oscillations. 7. Mn(2+) quench of fura-2 and voltage-clamp experiments showed that 5-HT failed to activate any significant voltage-independent Ca(2+) entry pathways, including store-operated and receptor-activated nonselective cation channels. Ni(2+) but not nisoldipine or Gd(3+) blocked basal Mn(2+) entry. 8. Voltage-clamp experiments showed that simultaneous depletion of both InsP(3) and ryanodine-sensitive intracellular Ca(2+) stores activates a current with linear voltage dependence and a reversal potential consistent with it being a nonselective cation channel. 5-HT did not activate this current. 9. Basal Ca(2+) entry, rather than CCE, is important to maintain 5-HT-induced cytosolic [Ca(2+)] responses and contraction in canine pulmonary artery.

The Ca2+/Mn2+ pumps in the Golgi apparatus

Recent evidence highlights the functional importance of the Golgi apparatus as an agonist-sensitive intracellular Ca(2+) store. Besides Ca(2+)-release channels and Ca(2+)-binding proteins, the Golgi complex contains Ca(2+)-uptake mechanisms consisting of the well-known sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-transport ATPases (SERCA) and the much less characterized secretory-pathway Ca(2+)-transport ATPases (SPCA). SPCA supplies the Golgi compartments and, possibly, the more distal compartments of the secretory pathway with both Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) and, therefore, plays an important role in the cytosolic and intra-Golgi Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) homeostasis. Mutations in the human gene encoding the SPCA1 pump (ATP2C1) resulting in Hailey-Hailey disease, an autosomal dominant skin disorder, are discussed.

Manganese alters mitochodrial integrity in the hearts of swine marginally deficient in magnesium

It was previously reported that pigs marginally deficient in magnesium (Mg) and fed diets high in manganese (Mn) died suddenly with signs of sudden cardiac death. Manganese, which has properties similar to Mg, may exacerbate Mg-deficiency and be accumulated by mitochondria resulting in ultrastructural damage. The objective of this study was to determine whether deaths of the type previously observed were mediated by adverse interactions of Mn and Mg resulting in ultrastructural damage to the myocardium, alterations in electrocardiographic recordings and tissue retention of Mn, Mg and calcium (Ca). Forty-eight pigs were fed one of six diets in a 2 X 3 factorial arrangement of Mg (100 or 1000 mg Mg/kg) and Mn (5, 50 or 500 mg Mn/kg) for 8 weeks. Left ventricle muscle samples were collected for examination by transmission electron microscopy. No differences in heart muscle ultrastructure were observed between pigs fed low and adequate dietary Mg. However, marked myocardial necrosis and mitochondrial swelling were observed in pigs fed high dietary Mn when combined with low Mg. Feeding low dietary Mg elevated minimum (P < 0.01), maximum (P < 0.05) and average (P < 0.001) heart rates. Low dietary Mg resulted in a 55% probability of a ventricular beat being recorded (P = 0.05) and lower Mg (P < 0.02) and Ca (P < 0.04) contents in heart atria and ventricles. These results suggest that high Mn, when fed in combination with low Mg, disrupts mitochondrial ultrastructure and is associated with the sudden deaths previously reported.

PMR1/SPCA Ca2+ pumps and the role of the Golgi apparatus as a Ca2+ store

Besides the well-known sarco/endoplasmic-reticulum Ca(2+)-transport ATPases (SERCA), animal cells contain a much less characterized P-type Ca(2+)-transport ATPase: the PMR1/SPCA Ca(2+)/Mn(2+)-transport ATPase. SPCA is mainly targeted to the Golgi apparatus. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that it might be more closely related to a putative ancestral Ca(2+) pump than SERCA. SPCA supplies the Golgi apparatus, and possibly other more distal compartments of the secretory pathway, with the Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) necessary for the production and processing of secretory proteins. In the lactating mammary gland, SPCA appears to be the primary pump responsible for supplementing the milk with high (60-100 mM) Ca(2+). It could also play a role in detoxification of cells overloaded with Mn(2+). Mutations in the human gene encoding the SPCA pump ( ATP2C1) result in Hailey-Hailey disease, a keratinocyte disorder characterized by incomplete cell adhesion. Recent observations show that the Golgi apparatus can function as a Ca(2+) store, which can be involved in setting up cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations.

Comparative capacitative calcium entry mechanisms in canine pulmonary and renal arterial smooth muscle cells

Experiments were performed to determine whether capacitative Ca(2+) entry (CCE) can be activated in canine pulmonary and renal arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) and whether activation of CCE parallels the different functional structure of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in these two cell types. The cytosolic [Ca(2+)] was measured by imaging fura-2-loaded individual cells. Increases in the cytosolic [Ca(2+)] due to store depletion in pulmonary ASMCs required simultaneous depletion of both the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP(3))- and ryanodine (RY)-sensitive SR Ca(2+) stores. In contrast, the cytosolic [Ca(2+)] rises in renal ASMCs occurred when the SR stores were depleted through either the InsP(3) or RY pathways. The increase in the cytosolic [Ca(2+)] due to store depletion in both pulmonary and renal ASMCs was present in cells that were voltage clamped and was abolished when cells were perfused with a Ca(2+)-free bathing solution. Rapid quenching of the fura-2 signal by 100 microM Mn(2+) following SR store depletion indicated that extracellular Ca(2+) entry increased in both cell types and also verified that activation of CCE in pulmonary ASMCs required the simultaneous depletion of the InsP(3)- and RY-sensitive SR Ca(2+) stores, while CCE could be activated in renal ASMCs by the depletion of either of the InsP(3)- or RY-sensitive SR stores. Store depletion Ca(2+) entry in both pulmonary and renal ASMCs was strongly inhibited by Ni(2+) (0.1-10 mM), slightly inhibited by Cd(2+) (200-500 microM), but was not significantly affected by the voltage-gated Ca(2+) channel (VGCC) blocker nisoldipine (10 microM). The non-selective cation channel blocker Gd(3+) (100 microM) inhibited a portion of the Ca(2+) entry in 6 of 18 renal but not pulmonary ASMCs. These results provide evidence that SR Ca(2+) store depletion activates CCE in parallel with the organization of intracellular Ca(2+) stores in canine pulmonary and renal ASMCs.

Functional expression in yeast of the human secretory pathway Ca(2+), Mn(2+)-ATPase defective in Hailey-Hailey disease

The discovery and biochemical characterization of the secretory pathway Ca(2+)-ATPase, PMR1, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has paved the way for identification of PMR1 homologues in many species including rat, Caenorhabditis elegans, and Homo sapiens. In yeast, PMR1 has been shown to function as a high affinity Ca(2+)/Mn(2+) pump and has been localized to the Golgi compartment where it is important for protein sorting, processing, and glycosylation. However, little is known about PMR1 homologues in higher organisms. Loss of one functional allele of the human gene, hSPCA1, has been linked to Hailey-Hailey disease, characterized by skin ulceration and improper keratinocyte adhesion. We demonstrate that expression of hSPCA1 in yeast fully complements pmr1 phenotypes of hypersensitivity to Ca(2+) chelators and Mn(2+) toxicity. Similar to PMR1, epitope-tagged hSPCA1 also resides in the Golgi when expressed in yeast or in chinese hamster ovary cells. (45)Ca(2+) transport by hSPCA1 into isolated yeast Golgi vesicles shows an apparent Ca(2+) affinity of 0.26 microm, is inhibitable by Mn(2+), but is thapsigargin-insensitive. In contrast, heterologous expression of vertebrate sarcoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPases in yeast complement the Ca(2+)- but not Mn(2+)-related phenotypes of the pmr1-null strain, suggesting that high affinity Mn(2+) transport is a unique feature of the secretory pathway Ca(2+)-ATPases.

Kinetic analysis of a model of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase, with variable stoichiometry, which enhances the amount and the rate of Ca transport

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca-dependent adenosinetriphosphatase (Ca-ATPase) actively transports Ca2+ from the myoplasm to the SR lumen. Under optimal conditions a 2:1 stoichiometry of Ca transport/ATP hydrolysis has been observed, but lower stoichiometries have been reported under several circumstances. A lower stoichiometry under conditions of high Ca2+ load, although thermodynamically less efficient, could in theory increase the rate and the maximal amount of Ca uptake. We analysed, by computing simulation, the transient kinetics of a model of the SR Ca-ATPase with variable stoichiometry. The model is based on current experimental reports and includes the most relevant properties of the system. The results show an acceleration in the rate of Ca uptake, an increase in the net Ca transport, and an increase in the rate of [Ca2+] reduction in the medium, which might be physiologically useful to increase the rate of Ca pumping at high Ca load of the sarcoplasmic reticulum.

Two distinct pathways for refilling Ca2+ stores in permeabilized bovine trachealis muscle

Calcium entry from extracellular space to acetylcholine (ACh)-sensitive internal stores was investigated in beta-escin permeabilized bovine tracheal smooth muscle. Cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a selective inhibitor of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium pump, and nifedipine, both inhibited the refilling, and inhibition was larger when these compounds were used simultaneously. BayK 8644 enhanced the refilling and completely reversed the inhibition induced by cyclopiazonic acid. In pCa 7 solution containing CPA, there was a spontaneous time-dependent decrease of ACh-induced transient contraction. In the presence of nifedipine or verapamil in the incubation solution reduced this time-dependent decrease in contractile responses to ACh stimulation, suggesting that these calcium-entry blockers decreased calcium leakage from internal stores to the extracellular space. These results suggest that in addition to the active calcium uptake in the SR, another pathway controlled by an L-type like calcium channel (dihydropyridine-sensitive) may exist between the extracellular compartment and the lumen of the SR in airway smooth muscle, and contributes significantly to the loading of ACh-sensitive calcium stores.

Glucocorticoid modulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in human B lymphoblasts

1. We determined the effect of cortisol (200 nM for 48 h) on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and parameters of Ca2+i signalling in 19 lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). 2. Using the fluorescent dye fura-2, the basal [Ca2+]i in Ca2+-containing medium was 63.5 +/- 2.4 nM in vehicle (ethanol)-treated LCLs and 55.7 +/- 2. 6 nM (mean +/- s.e.m.) in cortisol-treated LCLs. 3. Ca2+i signalling following platelet-activating factor (PAF, 100 nM) addition was enhanced by cortisol treatment, with LCLs having small PAF responses showing the largest percentage increase after cortisol treatment. Mean peak [Ca2+]i responses to PAF were enhanced 67.0% and 55.7% in Ca2+-free and Ca2+-containing medium, respectively. 4. The endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin (100 nM) caused a transient increase in [Ca2+]i in Ca2+-free medium in which the peak change was increased in cortisol-treated cells (98.5 +/- 5.8 vs. 79.8 +/- 4.5 nM). Peak changes in the freely exchangeable Ca2+ in response to 5 microM ionomycin were also enhanced in cortisol-treated cells (923.7 +/- 113.9 vs. 652.2 +/- 64.5 nM) and correlated to the PAF-evoked [Ca2+]i response. 5. Cortisol-treated LCLs exposed to thapsigargin to empty intracellular Ca2+ stores (10 min treatment in Ca2+-free medium) and exposed to CaCl2 or MnCl2 had a greater rate of Ca2+ entry (18.6 +/- 1.8 vs. 13.8 +/- 1.5 nM s-1) and higher rate constant for Mn2+ entry (0.0345 +/- 0.0029 vs. 0. 0217 +/- 0.0020) than vehicle-treated cells. Peak [Ca2+]i in cells exposed to CaCl2 was also enhanced (869.4 +/- 114.7 vs. 562.6 +/- 61.7 nM). Parameters of divalent cation influx were highly correlated to the peak [Ca2+]i elicited by thapsigargin or ionomycin. 6. Inclusion of RU 486 (a glucocorticoid antagonist) with cortisol prevented the decrease in basal [Ca2+]i and stimulatory actions of cortisol on all Ca2+i parameters. RU 486 alone had no apparent effects on basal [Ca2+]i or Ca2+i signalling. 7. Based on data obtained over a wide range of responses (in the presence and/or absence of cortisol or RU 486), the results show that cortisol stimulation of glucocorticoid receptors decreases basal [Ca2+]i and enhances PAF-evoked [Ca2+]i signalling, most probably through its effects on intracellular Ca2+ stores. In turn, the extent of Ca2+ entry via store-operated plasma membrane Ca2+ channels is closely linked to the size of the Ca2+ stores.

Effects of nifedipine on contraction by Mn2+ in Ca2+-free, high-K+ medium in ileal longitudinal muscle

1. The tension development due to 5 mM Mn2+ in Ca2+-free medium was dependent on the external K+ concentration above 35 mM in ileal muscle. 2. Nifedipine, an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker, dose dependently inhibited both the contraction and the manganese uptake by the application of 5 mM Mn2+ in the Ca2+-free, 35-60 mM K+ medium. 3. These results suggest that Mn2+ is entering through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels depending on ileal membrane depolarization, and it directly activates the contractile protein.

Manganese transport through human erythrocyte membranes. An EPR study

Manganese uptake by human erythrocytes was investigated in the concentration range 0.5-20 mM in the suspending solution, by using the EPR technique. S shaped dependencies of manganese influx on manganese doping solution concentration for both fresh and vanadate treated erythrocytes were found, with maximum influx values of 4.1 +/- 1.9 x 10(-10) mol/m2 x s and 2.1 +/- 0.3 x 10(-9) mol/m2 x s, respectively. At low manganese concentrations (< 2 mM) the manganese permeability coefficient increases with increasing the doping concentration, the ions cooperate for achieving a transport event. For high manganese concentration (> 5 mM) the permeability coefficient decreases with increasing the doping concentration, the ions competing for the limited amount of transport system. A similar increase in manganese uptake as in vanadate treated erythrocytes was measured for 'in vitro' aged erythrocytes. These results might suggest that human erythrocytes possess an active transport mechanism by which, they oppose to manganese influx. This hypothesis is also supported by the 10-15 min time lag between the moment of doping and the start of the manganese influx into the fresh erythrocytes. The manganese uptake inhibition by nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, for the case of vanadate treated erythrocytes, suggests that, at least partially, manganese uptake by the cells occurs via the 'calcium channels'.

Effects of Mn2+ on the responses induced by different spasmogens in the oestrogen-primed rat uterus

We investigated the effect of Mn2+ on the mechanical responses evoked by high K+ (60 mM) or low Na+ (25 mM) solutions, oxytocin and neurokinin A in the oestrogen-primed rat uterus. In a Ca2+-free, Mn2+ (0.54 mM)-containing solution, high K+ or low Na+ solutions produced contractions of smaller amplitude than those observed in a normal Ca2+ (0.54 mM) solution, which were abolished by nifedipine (1 microM). Oxytocin (1 microM) and neurokinin A (1 microM, in the presence of phosphoramidon 1 microM) evoked nifedipine-insensitive contractile responses similar to (oxytocin) or smaller (neurokinin A) in amplitude than those observed in Ca2+ (0.54 mM)-containing solution. In strips loaded with Ca2+ (2.16 mM) for 10 min and then exposed to a Ca2+- and Mn2+-free, EGTA (3 mM)-containing medium for 4 min, both oxytocin and neurokinin A induced transient contraction followed by a small sustained response. The transient component of the response was abolished by cyclopiazonic acid (10 microM). When preparations were loaded with Mn2+ (2.16 mM) for 10 min, only the small, tonic contraction was observed. In Ca2+-containing solution, Mn2+ (0.01-10 mM) inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner the rhythmic contractions developed either spontaneously or by electrical stimulation as well as high K+- and neurokinin A-induced contractions. Mn2+ also abolished the rhythmic, but not the tonic component of the response to oxytocin, and the preparation remained maximally contracted. These data suggest that in the oestrogen-primed rat uterus, Mn2+ acts as an antagonist of Ca2+ influx through L-type voltage-operated Ca2+ channels. In addition, Mn2+ enters the cell mainly through nifedipine-insensitive receptor-operated channels and, to a lesser degree, through L-type Ca2+ channels to produce contraction by directly activating the contractile machinery.

Role of [Ca2+]i in "Ca2+ stores depletion-Ca2+ entry coupling' in fibroblasts expressing the rat neurotensin receptor

1. Transfected Chinese hamster ovary fibroblasts expressing the rat neurotensin receptor were used to study the 'Ca2+ stores depletion-Ca2+ entry coupling' which follows stimulation with neurotensin and liberation of InsP3. 2. This coupling could be dissociated in time. Firstly, stores depletion was produced by neurotensin or thapsigargin which caused a first [Ca2+]i transient in a Ca(2+)-free external medium. Secondly, readmission of external Ca2+ produced an influx of Ca2+ and a second [Ca2+]i transient. 3. Various concentrations of thapsigargin (20 nM to 1 microM) were used to produce complete stores depletion with small or large first peaks of [Ca2+]i. Upon return to external Ca2+, small or large second [Ca2+]i peaks were observed. The amplitudes of both peaks were positively correlated. 4. The Ca2+ entry which followed stores depletion could occur at very low basal values of [Ca2+]i, was accelerated by okadaic acid and inhibited by staurosporine and the calmodulin antagonist W-7. 5. It is concluded that the rise in [Ca2+]i during Ca2+ stores depletion is an essential parameter which determines the size of the subsequent Ca2+ entry.

Mutations in PMR1 suppress oxidative damage in yeast cells lacking superoxide dismutase

Mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae lacking a functional SOD1 gene encoding Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) are sensitive to atmospheric levels of oxygen and are auxotrophic for lysine and methionine when grown in air. We have previously shown that these defects of SOD-deficient yeast cells can be overcome through mutations in either the BSD1 or BSD2 (bypass SOD defects) gene. In this study, the wild-type allele of BSD1 was cloned by functional complementation and was physically mapped to the left arm of chromosome VII. BSD1 is identical to PMR1, encoding a member of the P-type ATPase family that localizes to the Golgi apparatus. PMR1 is thought to function in calcium metabolism, and we provide evidence that PMR1 also participates in the homeostasis of manganese ions. Cells lacking a functional PMR1 gene accumulate elevated levels of intracellular manganese and are also extremely sensitive to manganese ion toxicity. We demonstrate that mutations in PMR1 bypass SOD deficiency through a mechanism that depends on extracellular manganese. Collectively, these findings indicate that oxidative damage in a eukaryotic cell can be prevented through alterations in manganese homeostasis.

Ca2+ entry activated by emptying of intracellular Ca2+ stores in ileal smooth muscle of the rat

1. The effects of depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores on muscle tension and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+])i were studied in fura-2 loaded longitudinal smooth muscle cells of the rat ileum. 2. After exposure to a Ca(2+)-free solution, application of Ca2+ caused a small contraction and a rise in [Ca2+]i, both of which were potentiated when the muscle was challenged with carbachol or caffeine before the addition of Ca2+. 3. Cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a specific inhibitor of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase, dose-dependently decreased tension development and the rises in [Ca2+]i induced by carbachol and caffeine in the Ca(2+)-free solution, but conversely increased the Ca(2+)-induced responses even in the presence of the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blockers, methoxyverapamil and nifedipine. 4. The contraction and rise in [Ca2+]i evoked by Ca2+ gradually declined with time after removal of CPA, while the reverse was the case for the responses to carbachol and caffeine. 5. The Ca(2+)-induced contraction and rise in [Ca2+]i in the presence of CPA were inhibited by the replacement of Na+ with K+ or Cs+, and by the addition of Cd2+, Ba2+, Ni2+ or La3+. 6. The influx of Mn2+ was much greater in extent in the presence of CPA than in its absence. 7. These results suggest that the emptying of intracellular Ca2+ stores may activate Ca2+ influx not associated with voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels in the rat ileal smooth muscle.

Interactions of vanadate oligomers with sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase

Upon addition of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), the line width of tetrameric vanadate signal of 51V-NMR spectra narrowed in the presence of ATP and Ca2+, whereas monomeric vanadate line widths were broadened. Thus, ATP decreases the affinity of the enzyme for tetravanadate whereas it induces the interaction with monomeric vanadate. In the presence of Ca2+ it was observed that tetrameric and decameric vanadate bind to SR ATPase whereas monomeric vanadate only binds to SR when ATP is present. However, decameric vanadate clearly differs from vanadate oligomers present in monovanadate solutions in preventing the accumulation of Ca2+ by sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles coupled to ATP hydrolysis. Mg2+ increased the inhibitory effect promoted by decavanadate whereas a slight enhancement of Ca2+ uptake was observed in the presence of monovanadate. For 5 mM Mg2+, a nominal 2 mM vanadium 'decavanadate' solution containing about 190 to 200 microM decameric and less than 100 microM monomeric species depressed the rate of Ca2+ uptake by 50% whereas a nominal 2 mM monovanadate solution containing about 662 microM monomeric, 143 microM dimeric and 252 microM tetrameric species had no effect on the rate of Ca2+ accumulation. However, 2 mM 'decavanadate' inhibits by 75% the SR Ca(2+)-ATPase activity whereas the presence of 2 mM 'monovanadate' produces an inhibitory effect below 50%. Therefore, the Ca:ATP stoichiometry of Ca2+ transport is enhanced by monovanadate. In the presence of oxalate, inhibition of SR Ca(2+)-ATPase activity by these solutions is enhanced to 97% and 86% whereas in the presence of the ionophore lasalocid, the inhibitory values were 87% and 19% for 2 mM decavanadate and 2 mM monovanadate solutions, respectively. Apparently, the increase of vesicular Ca2+ concentration counteracts monovanadate inhibition of SR Ca(2+)-ATPase activity but it does not significantly affect decavanadate inhibition.

Proton ejection as a major feature of the Ca(2+)-pump

H+ ejection and Ca2+ uptake promoted by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+)-pump are similarly stimulated by millimolar Mg2+. This cannot be assigned to enhanced Ca2+ uptake and H+ displacement from internal metal binding sites since: (1) loading SR vesicles with high Mg2+ concentrations does not impair H+ ejection; (2) loading SR vesicles with Mn2+ does not depress H+ ejection occurring during Mn2+ uptake; (3) H+ ejection occurs even when Ca2+ accumulation inside the vesicles is prevented with Ca2+ ionophores. It is concluded that the Ca(2+)-pump promotes an active Ca2+/H+ countertransport stimulated by Mg2+. Finally, a mechanism for Ca2+ translocation is proposed in basic physico-chemical terms.

The superficial buffer barrier in venous smooth muscle: sarcoplasmic reticulum refilling and unloading

1. The interaction of Ca2+ transport in the plasmalemma and the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) was investigated in smooth muscle of the rabbit inferior vena cava. We tested the possibility of direct refilling of the SR with extracellular Ca2+ and of the existence of a vectorial Ca2+ extrusion pathway from the SR lumen to the extracellular space suggested by earlier results. 2. After depletion with caffeine the SR was loaded with Ca2+ to increasing levels by incubation in a high potassium 1.5 mM Ca2+ solution and a 10 mM Ca2+ zero Na+ solution, respectively. Thapsigargin, 2 microM, (a specific SR Ca(2+)-ATPase blocker) completely blocked refilling of the SR in either of the above solutions, indicating that the SR Ca(2+)-ATPase is essential for this process. 3. Three different agents, caffeine, ryanodine and thapsigargin, which inhibit Ca2+ accumulation by the SR, increased the steady state intracellular Ca2+ concentration in the rabbit inferior vena cava. 4. Measurements of Mn2+ induced quenching of the intracellular fura-2 signal during pharmacological manipulation of the SR content showed that these three agents did not stimulate divalent cation entry. 5. On the other hand, stimulation with noradrenaline caused a marked increase in Mn2+ influx, which was blocked by 2 mM Ni2+. Mn2+ entry stimulated by high K+ solution was blocked by 1 microM diltiazem. 6. We conclude that the SR refilling has to be mediated by the SR Ca(2+)-ATPase. Inhibition of Ca2+ accumulation by the SR causes an increase in the steady state intracellular Ca2+ concentration. This observation cannot be explained by an increase in Ca2+ influx into the smooth muscle cells of the rabbit inferior vena cava. Alternatively these results suggest the existence of a continuous vectorial release of Ca2+ from the SR lumen to the extracellular space.

Endothelin-induced calcium responses in human vascular smooth muscle cells

The effects of endothelin-1 (ET) on the cytosolic free Ca (Cai) and cytosolic pH (pHi) were examined in primary cultures of human umbilical artery (HUA) vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), respectively, loaded with fura-2 and 2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein. In 1 mM Ca, ET produced a dose-dependent, biphasic increase in the signal with a maximal effect at 400 nM ET. At this concentration, ET produced a Cai transient (mean +/- SE; a rise from basal Cai of 86 +/- 16 to 216 +/- 33 nM) that lasted for approximately 50-60 s. The Cai transient was followed by a slow but sustained increase in Cai. Both ET-induced Cai transient and posttransient Cai were attenuated in Ca deficient medium or by verapamil and nicardipine. In contrast to ET, thrombin elicited only a monophasic Cai response in HUA VSMCs. This response was also partially sensitive to Ca removal or verapamil. KCl (45 mM) depolarization did not elicit a Cai response. However, the presence of voltage sensitive Ca channels in HUA VSMCs was demonstrated by enhanced Mn uptake in cells depolarized with KCl. Both ET and thrombin treatment did not alter pHi. HUA VSMCs demonstrated a single class of ET receptors (approximately 13,000 sites/cell) with an equilibrium dissociation constant of 0.34 nM. Nicardipine did not alter ET binding. These observations suggest a dual effect of ET on the Cai profile in HUA VSMCs that is mediated by Ca mobilization and Ca entry through Ca channels. The Ca entry could include influx through receptor-operated Ca channels, voltage-sensitive Ca channels, or both, but without a direct interaction between ET and these channels.

Endothelin- and oxytocin-induced calcium signaling in cultured human myometrial cells

The demonstration that endothelin (ET) induces rat uterine contraction, coupled with the observation that ET is present in human amniotic fluid, suggests that the myometrium may be an important target organ for this hormone. We show that in quiescent human myometrial cells ET produced a dose-dependent increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ (Cai2+), which was markedly attenuated when the cells were studied in Ca2(+)-free media. Preincubation with nicardipine, diltiazem, or verapamil reduced the ET-evoked Cai2+ transient by 30, 40, and 65%, respectively. The presence of voltage sensitive Ca2+ channels was demonstrated by Mn2+ quenching of fura-2. Activation of the Na+/H+ antiport could not be demonstrated with ET stimulation. In nonquiescent cells, the ET-evoked Cai2+ transient was significantly reduced, while the response to oxytocin was retained. This is at least partially explained by a reduction in Bmax (maximal binding capacity) for ET (mean +/- SEM) from 3,506 +/- 268 binding sites/cell in quiescent cells to 2,411 +/- 300 binding sites/cell, as well as 72% increase in Kd (equilibrium dissociation constant), in the nonquiescent cells. We conclude that, in human myometrial cells, ET and oxytocin modulate Cai2+ through independent receptors and propose that ET, like oxytocin, is an important endogenous modulator of uterine contractility.

Ca2+ extrusion across plasma membrane and Ca2+ uptake by intracellular stores

The aim of this review is to summarize the various systems that remove Ca2+ from the cytoplasm. We will initially focus on the Ca2+ pump and the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger of the plasma membrane. We will review the functional regulation of these systems and the recent progress obtained with molecular-biology techniques, which pointed to the existence of different isoforms of the Ca2+ pump. The Ca2+ pumps of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum will be discussed next, by summarizing the discoveries obtained with molecular-biology techniques, and by reviewing the physiological regulation of these proteins. We will finally briefly review the mitochondrial Ca(2+)-uptake mechanism.

Agonist-dependent Ca2+ and Mn2+ entry dependent on state of filling of Ca2+ stores in aortic smooth muscle cells of the rat

1. The properties of intracellular Ca2+ stores of intact- and of saponin-skinned A7r5 (an established cell line from embryonic rat aorta) smooth muscle cells were studied by measuring 45Ca2+ and 54Mn2+ fluxes. 2. Application of 5 microM-vasopressin to intact cells increased the fractional loss of 45Ca2+ in Ca2(+)-free solution by a factor of 5.2. This effect was not influenced by a pre-incubation with 10 microM-ryanodine. Caffeine (25 mM) did not stimulate the fractional loss of 45Ca2+ from intact cells. 3. In skinned cells 10 microM-IP3 (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate) and 5 microM-A23187 (a calcium ionophore) released the same amount of 45Ca2+. This release did not require GTP and was not affected by a pre-incubation with 10 microM-ryanodine. Caffeine (25 mM) did not release stored Ca2+. 4. NaF (1 mM) plus 10 microM-AlCl3 inhibited by 72% the 45Ca2+ uptake by the IP3-sensitive store of skinned cells at 0.15 microM-Ca2+. Cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase did not stimulate this ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ uptake, nor could the presence of phospholamban be demonstrated immunologically. 5. The 45Ca2+ uptake by cells which had been depleted of Ca2+ with 5 microM-vasopressin was 69% higher than the uptake obtained without such proceeding depletion. This enhanced 45Ca2+ uptake did not occur through voltage-operated Ca2+ channels, because blockade of these channels with verapamil, or depolarization of the plasma membrane by increasing [K+] from 5.9 to 59 mM in the presence of verapamil, did not modify this uptake. 6. A similar increase of the 54Mn2+ uptake occurred in intact cells with a depleted Ca2+ store. If, however, the cells were first skinned and subsequently exposed to 54Mn2+, the ATP-dependent 54Mn2+ uptake amounted to less than 6% of the ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ uptake. 7. If intact cells were first exposed to a 45Ca2(+)- or 54Mn2(+)-containing solution, and subsequently skinned in a non-radioactive intracellular solution, the addition of 10 microM-A23187 to these cells released stored Ca2+ or Mn2+. The amount of released Ca2+ was only slightly larger than the amount of released Mn2+. If the intracellular store was depleted before loading, the amount of Ca2+ or Mn2+ released by the ionophore increased by 68 and 28%, respectively. 8. It is concluded that A7r5 smooth muscle cells do not express a Ca2(+)-induced Ca2+ release mechanism, but do contain an IP3-induced Ca2+ release mechanism which can release approximately all intracellularly accumulated 45Ca2+.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Effects of calcium chelators, divalent cations and sulfhydryl reagents on calcium uptake and motility of bovine spermatozoa

Addition of 1 mM Ca/EGTA complex (1:1 ratio) to an incubation medium containing 1.5 mM Ca2+ produced a notable increase in the Ca2+ cycling in ejaculated bovine spermatozoa. Similar results were also obtained with the Ca/EDTA and Ca/EDTA complexes or with the heavy metal chelator DTPA (50 microM). Ba2+, Ni2+ or Co2+ added at 0.1 mM concentration abolished the stimulatory effect of the Ca/EGTA complex on Ca2+ cycling, whereas it did not affect the calcium movement in the absence of the calcium chelator complex. It is concluded that small amounts of these cations should be bound to the plasma membrane of bovine spermatozoa and inhibit the cellular calcium influx. 0.1 mM Cd2+ and NEM or 1 mM diamide produced a calcium efflux from the spermatozoa together with an inhibition of cellular motility and an increase in glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase release. Conversely the impermeant sulfhydryl reagent mersalyl caused a net calcium efflux but did not alter the cellular motility nor the transaminase release. It is suggested that the permeant thiol reagents could decrease the spermatozoal mobility by impairing the mitochondrial ATP-synthesis.