Changes in intracellular pH of mouse hippocampal slices responding to hypoxia and/or glucose depletion

The Critical Role of Spreading Depolarizations in Early Brain Injury: Consensus and Contention

BACKGROUND

When a patient arrives in the emergency department following a stroke, a traumatic brain injury, or sudden cardiac arrest, there is no therapeutic drug available to help protect their jeopardized neurons. One crucial reason is that we have not identified the molecular mechanisms leading to electrical failure, neuronal swelling, and blood vessel constriction in newly injured gray matter. All three result from a process termed spreading depolarization (SD). Because we only partially understand SD, we lack molecular targets and biomarkers to help neurons survive after losing their blood flow and then undergoing recurrent SD.

METHODS

In this review, we introduce SD as a single or recurring event, generated in gray matter following lost blood flow, which compromises the Na⁺/K⁺ pump. Electrical recovery from each SD event requires so much energy that neurons often die over minutes and hours following initial injury, independent of extracellular glutamate.

RESULTS

We discuss how SD has been investigated with various pitfalls in numerous experimental preparations, how overtaxing the Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase elicits SD. Elevated K⁺ or glutamate are unlikely natural activators of SD. We then turn to the properties of SD itself, focusing on its initiation and propagation as well as on computer modeling.

CONCLUSIONS

Finally, we summarize points of consensus and contention among the authors as well as where SD research may be heading. In an accompanying review, we critique the role of the glutamate excitotoxicity theory, how it has shaped SD research, and its questionable importance to the study of early brain injury as compared with SD theory.

Structural myelin defects are associated with low axonal ATP levels but rapid recovery from energy deprivation in a mouse model of spastic paraplegia

In several neurodegenerative disorders, axonal pathology may originate from impaired oligodendrocyte-to-axon support of energy substrates. We previously established transgenic mice that allow measuring axonal ATP levels in electrically active optic nerves. Here, we utilize this technique to explore axonal ATP dynamics in the Plp^null/y mouse model of spastic paraplegia. Optic nerves from Plp^null/y mice exhibited lower and more variable basal axonal ATP levels and reduced compound action potential (CAP) amplitudes, providing a missing link between axonal pathology and a role of oligodendrocytes in brain energy metabolism. Surprisingly, when Plp^null/y optic nerves are challenged with transient glucose deprivation, both ATP levels and CAP decline slower, but recover faster upon reperfusion of glucose. Structurally, myelin sheaths display an increased frequency of cytosolic channels comprising glucose and monocarboxylate transporters, possibly facilitating accessibility of energy substrates to the axon. These data imply that complex metabolic alterations of the axon–myelin unit contribute to the phenotype of Plp^null/y mice.

Imaging of ATP dynamics in the optic nerve axons of mice lacking the major myelin protein PLP (a model of spastic paraplegia) reveals complex alterations in the metabolic interaction between oligodendrocytes and axons, associated with structural deficits of myelin.

Effects of acute hypoxia/acidosis on intracellular pH in differentiating neural progenitor cells

The response of differentiating mouse neural progenitor cells, migrating out from neurospheres, to conditions simulating ischemia (hypoxia and extracellular or intracellular acidosis) was studied. We show here, by using BCECF and single cell imaging to monitor intracellular pH (pH(i)), that two main populations can be distinguished by exposing migrating neural progenitor cells to low extracellular pH or by performing an acidifying ammonium prepulse. The cells dominating at the periphery of the neurosphere culture, which were positive for neuron specific markers MAP-2, calbindin and NeuN had lower initial resting pH(i) and could also easily be further acidified by lowering the extracellular pH. Moreover, in this population, a more profound acidification was seen when the cells were acidified using the ammonium prepulse technique. However, when the cell population was exposed to depolarizing potassium concentrations no alterations in pH(i) took place in this population. In contrast, depolarization caused an increase in pH(i) (by 0.5 pH units) in the cell population closer to the neurosphere body, which region was positive for the radial cell marker (GLAST). This cell population, having higher resting pH(i) (pH 6.9-7.1) also responded to acute hypoxia. During hypoxic treatment the resting pH(i) decreased by 0.1 pH units and recovered rapidly after reoxygenation. Our results show that migrating neural progenitor cells are highly sensitive to extracellular acidosis and that irreversible damage becomes evident at pH 6.2. Moreover, our results show that a response to acidosis clearly distinguishes two individual cell populations probably representing neuronal and radial cells.

Intracellular acidification causes adenosine release during states of hyperexcitability in the hippocampus

Decreased pH increases extracellular adenosine in CNS regions as diverse as hippocampus and ventral medulla. However, thus far there is no clear consensus whether the critical pH change is a decrease in intracellular and/or extracellular pH. Previously we showed that a decrease in extracellular pH is necessary and a decrease in intracellular pH alone is not sufficient, to increase extracellular adenosine in an acute hippocampal slice preparation. Here we explored further the role of intracellular pH under different synaptic conditions in the hippocampal slice. When synaptic excitability was increased, either during gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor blockade in CA1 or after the induction of persistent bursting in CA3, a decrease in intracellular pH alone was now sufficient to: 1) elevate extracellular adenosine concentration, 2) activate adenosine A1 receptors, 3) decrease excitatory synaptic transmission (CA1), and 4) attenuate burst frequency in an in vitro seizure model (CA3). Hippocampal slices obtained from adenosine A1 receptor knockout mice did not exhibit these pH-mediated effects on synaptic transmission, further confirming the role of adenosine acting at the adenosine A1 receptor. Taken together, these data strengthen and add significantly to the evidence outlining a change in pH as an important stimulus influencing extracellular adenosine. In addition, we identify conditions under which intracellular pH plays a dominant role in regulating extracellular adenosine concentrations.

Layer-specific differences in reactive oxygen species levels after oxygen-glucose deprivation in acute hippocampal slices

The major role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathomechanism of ischemia have been widely recognized. Still, measurements of the precise time course and regional distribution of ischemia-induced ROS level changes in acute brain slices have been missing. By using acute hippocampal slices and the fluorescent dye CM-H2DCFDA, we showed that reoxygenation after in vitro ischemia (oxygen-glucose deprivation; OGD) increased ROS levels in the hippocampal CA1 layers vulnerable to ischemia but did not have significant effects in the resistant stratum granulosum in the dentate gyrus (DG). Production of ROS started during OGD, but, contrary to reoxygenation, it manifested as a ROS level increase exclusively in the presence of catalase and glutathione peroxidase inhibition. The mechanism of ROS production involves the activation of NMDA receptors and nitric oxide synthases. The inhibition of ROS response by either AP-5 or L-NAME together with the ROS sensitivity profile of the dye suggest that peroxynitrite, the reaction product of superoxide and nitric oxide, plays a role in the response. Direct visualization of layer-specific effects of ROS production and its scavenging, shown for the first time in acute hippocampal slices, suggests that distinct ROS homeostasis may underlie the different ischemic vulnerability of CA1 and DG.

Regulation of pH in the mammalian central nervous system under normal and pathological conditions: facts and hypotheses

The maintenance of pH homeostasis in the CNS is of key importance for proper execution and regulation of neurotransmission, and deviations from this homeostasis are a crucial factor in the mechanism underlying a spectrum of pathological conditions. The first few sections of the review are devoted to the brain operating under normal conditions. The article commences with an overview of how extrinsic factors modelling the brain at work: neurotransmitters, depolarising stimuli (potassium and voltage changes) and cyclic nucleotides as major signal transducing vehicles affect pH in the CNS. Further, consequences of pH alterations on the major aspects of CNS function and metabolism are outlined. Next, the major cellular events involved in the transport, sequestration, metabolic production and buffering of protons that are common to all the mammalian cells, including the CNS cells. Since CNS function reflects tight interaction between astrocytes and neurons, the pH regulatory events pertinent to either cell type are discussed: overwhelming evidence implicates astrocytes as a key player in pH homeostasis in the brain. The different classes of membrane proteins involved in proton shuttling are listed and their mechanisms of action are given. These include: the Na+/H+ exchanger, different classes of bicarbonate transporters acting in a sodium-dependent- or -independent mode, monocarboxylic acid transporters and the vacuolar-type proton ATPase. A separate section is devoted to carbonic anhydrase, which is represented by multiple isoenzymes capable of pH buffering both in the cell interior and in the extracellular space. Next, impairment of pH regulation and compensatory responses occurring in brain affected by different pathologies: hypoxia/ischemia, epilepsy, hyperammonemic encephalopathies, cerebral tumours and HIV will be described. The review is limited to facts and plausible hypotheses pertaining to phenomena directly involved in pH regulation: changes in pH that accompany metabolic stress but have no distinct implications for the pH regulatory mechanisms are not dealt with. In most cases, the vast body of knowledge derived from in vitro studies remains to be verified in in vivo settings.

The Na+/H+exchanger is a major pH regulator in GABAergic presynaptic nerve terminals synapsing onto rat CA3 pyramidal neurons

The effects of pH(i) on GABAergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) were studied in mechanically dissociated CA3 pyramidal neurons, by use of ammonium prepulse and whole-cell patch-clamp techniques, under the voltage-clamp condition. NH(4)Cl itself, which is expected to alkalinize pH(i), increased GABAergic mIPSC frequency in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, NH(4)Cl decreased mIPSC frequency, either in the presence of 200 microm Cd(2+) or in Ca(2+)-free external solution, suggesting that intraterminal alkalosis decreased GABAergic mIPSC frequency while [NH4(+)] itself may activate Ca(2+) channels by depolarizing the terminal. On the other hand, GABAergic mIPSC frequency was greatly increased immediately after NH(4)Cl removal, a condition expected to acidify pH(i), and recovered to the control level within 2 min after NH(4)Cl removal. This explosive increase in mIPSC frequency observed after NH(4)Cl removal was completely eliminated after depletion of Ca(2+) stores with 1 microm thapsigargin in the Ca(2+)-free external solution, suggesting that acidification increases in intraterminal Ca(2+) concentration via both extracellular Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) release from the stores. However, the acidification-induced increase in mIPSC frequency had not recovered by 10 min after NH(4)Cl removal either in the Na(+)-free external solution or in the presence of 10 microm 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)-amiloride (EIPA), a specific Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) blocker. The present results suggest that NHEs are major intraterminal pH regulators on GABAergic presynaptic nerve terminals, and that the NHE-mediated regulation of pH(i) under normal physiological or pathological conditions might play an important role in the neuronal excitability by increasing inhibitory tones.

Adenosine and ATP link PCO2 to cortical excitability via pH

In addition to affecting respiration and vascular tone, deviations from normal CO(2) alter pH, consciousness, and seizure propensity. Outside the brainstem, however, the mechanisms by which CO(2) levels modify neuronal function are unknown. In the hippocampal slice preparation, increasing CO(2), and thus decreasing pH, increased the extracellular concentration of the endogenous neuromodulator adenosine and inhibited excitatory synaptic transmission. These effects involve adenosine A(1) and ATP receptors and depend on decreased extracellular pH. In contrast, decreasing CO(2) levels reduced extracellular adenosine concentration and increased neuronal excitability via adenosine A(1) receptors, ATP receptors, and ecto-ATPase. Based on these studies, we propose that CO(2)-induced changes in neuronal function arise from a pH-dependent modulation of adenosine and ATP levels. These findings demonstrate a mechanism for the bidirectional effects of CO(2) on neuronal excitability in the forebrain.

Calcium and pH homeostasis in neurons during hypoxia and ischemia

One of the important events during hypoxia or ischemia in the brain (or other organs for that matter, including the myocardium) is the accumulation of Ca2+ ions intracellularly. Although various studies have shown various sources of and routes for Ca2+ entry and accumulation, it is clear now that it is likely that there is a multitude rather than a single mechanism for this accumulation. In this review, we highlight this Ca2+ accumulation during low O2 states and discuss some of the mechanisms leading to accumulation for two main reasons: (a) an accumulation of Ca2+ in the cytosol has been proven to be deleterious for cell function although this accumulation of Ca2+ and consequences represent only a limited view of events that can lead to cell injury during such stress and (b) developing therapeutic strategies involving the reduction or elimination of this accumulation depends, by and large, on the mechanism of entry. In addition to reviewing some of these Ca2+ events, we will also review the relation between pH (H+) and Ca2+ since these two ions and their regulation are tied to each other in a major way. For example, extracellular acidosis, which can occur during ischemia, has a remarkable effect on the function of some of the Ca2+ entry routes.

The role of HCO3(-)-dependent mechanisms in pHi regulation during O2 deprivation

We have reported in our previous work that, in the absence of HCO(3)(-), Na(+)/H(+) exchanger is responsible for an anoxia-induced alkalinization in hippocampal CA1 neurons. HCO(3)(-)-dependent mechanisms have been reported to play a key role in pH(i) regulation in nerve cells, but how their function is affected by O(2) deprivation has not been well studied. In this work, pH(i) measurements (obtained from dissociated neurons loaded with carboxy-seminaphthorhodafluor-1 and using confocal microscopy) and whole-cell patch clamp recording techniques were used to investigate the role of HCO(3)(-)-dependent membrane exchangers on CA1 neurons during O(2) deprivation. Anoxia (5 min) induced a small acidification in neurons in the presence of HCO(3)(-) and this acidification was changed to a significant alkalinization when neurons were bathed with Hepes buffer or when 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid was applied in a HCO(3)(-) solution, indicating that HCO(3)(-)-dependent mechanisms were involved. A marked anoxia-induced acidification (0.33+/-0.11 pH unit) was seen when the Na(+)/H(+) exchange was blocked with 3-(methylsulfonyl-4-piperidino-benzoyl)-guanidine methanesulfonate in the presence of HCO(3)(-), but the same anoxia did not cause a significant pH(i) change in a Na(+) free, HCO(3)(-) solution, suggesting that the anoxia-induced acidification in the presence of 3-(methylsulfonyl-4-piperidino-benzoyl)-guanidine methanesulfonate is dependent on both Na(+) and HCO(3)(-). Furthermore, anoxia did not cause a significant pH(i) change when both 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid and 3-(methylsulfonyl-4-piperidino-benzoyl)-guanidine methanesulfonate were present. Current clamp recordings showed a significant membrane depolarization following anoxia in HCO(3)(-) solution but not in Hepes buffer. Our data suggest that, in hippocampal neurons: a) pH(i) regulation during O(2) deprivation is affected not only by metabolism but also by membrane exchangers, and b) besides the activation of Na(+)/H(+) exchange, anoxia activates a 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid-sensitive, Na(+)-dependent acid loader (possibly electrogenic).

Intracellular pH response to anoxia in acutely dissociated adult rat hippocampal CA1 neurons

The effects of anoxia on intracellular pH (pH(i)) were examined in acutely isolated adult rat hippocampal CA1 neurons loaded with the H(+)-sensitive fluorophore, 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein. During perfusion with HCO/CO(2)- or HEPES-buffered media (pH 7.35) at 37 degrees C, 5- or 10-min anoxic insults were typified by an intracellular acidification on the induction of anoxia, a subsequent rise in pH(i) in the continued absence of O(2), and a further internal alkalinization on the return to normoxia. The steady-state pH(i) changes were not consequent on changes in [Ca(2+)](i) and, examined in the presence of HCO, were not significantly affected by (DIDS). In the absence of HCO, the magnitude of the postanoxic alkalinization was attenuated when external Na(+) was reduced by substitution with N-methyl-D-glucamine (NMDG(+)), but not Li(+), suggesting that increased Na(+)/H(+) exchange activity contributes to this phase of the pH(i) response. In contrast, 100-500 microM Zn(2+), a known blocker of H(+)-conductive pathways, reduced the magnitudes of the internal alkalinizations that occurred both during and following anoxia. The effects of NMDG(+)-substituted medium and Zn(2+) to reduce the increase in pH(i) that occurred after anoxia were additive. Consistent with the steady-state pH(i) changes, rates of pH(i) recovery from internal acid loads imposed immediately after anoxia were increased, and the application of Zn(2+) and/or perfusion with NMDG(+)-substituted medium slowed pH(i) recovery. Reducing extracellular pH from 7.35 to 6.60, or reducing ambient temperature from 37 degrees C to room temperature, also attenuated the increases in steady-state pH(i) observed during and after anoxia and reduced rates of pH(i) recovery from acid loads imposed in the immediate postanoxic period. Finally, inhibition of the cAMP/protein kinase A second-messenger system reduced the magnitude of the rise in pH(i) after anoxia in a manner that was dependent on external Na(+); conversely, activation of the system with isoproterenol increased the postanoxic alkalinization, an effect that was attenuated by pretreatment with propranolol, Rp-cAMPS, or when NMDG(+) (but not Li(+)) was employed as an external Na(+) substitute. The results suggest that a Zn(2+)-sensitive acid efflux mechanism, possibly a H(+)-conductive pathway activated by membrane depolarization, contributes to the internal alkalinization observed during anoxia in adult rat CA1 neurons. The rise in pH(i) after anoxia reflects acid extrusion via the H(+)-conductive pathway and also Na(+)/H(+) exchange, activation of the latter being mediated, at least in part, through a cAMP-dependent signaling pathway.

Role of Na(+)/H(+) exchanger during O(2) deprivation in mouse CA1 neurons

To determine the role of membrane transporters in intracellular pH (pH(i)) regulation under conditions of low microenvironmental O(2), we monitored pH(i) in isolated single CA1 neurons using the fluorescent indicator carboxyseminaphthorhodafluor-1 and confocal microscopy. After total O(2) deprivation or anoxia (PO(2) approximately equal to 0 Torr), a large increase in pH(i) was seen in CA1 neurons in HEPES buffer, but a drop in pH(i), albeit small, was observed in the presence of HCO(3)(-). Ionic substitution and pharmacological experiments showed that the large anoxia-induced pH(i) increase in HEPES buffer was totally Na(+) dependent and was blocked by HOE-694, strongly suggesting the activation of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE). Also, this pH(i) increase in HEPES buffer was significantly smaller in Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) null mutant CA1 neurons than in wild-type neurons, demonstrating that NHE1 is responsible for part of the pH(i) increase following anoxia. Both chelerythrine and H-89 partly blocked, and H-7 totally eliminated, this anoxia-induced pH(i) increase in the absence of HCO. We conclude that 1) O(2) deprivation activates Na(+)/H(+) exchange by enhancing protein kinase activity and 2) membrane proteins, such as NHE, actively participate in regulating pH(i) during low-O(2) states in neurons.

Mechanisms underlying the depression of evoked fast EPSCs following in vitro ischemia in rat hippocampal CA1 neurons

The mechanisms underlying the depression of evoked fast excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) following superfusion with medium deprived of oxygen and glucose (in vitro ischemia) for a 4-min period in hippocampal CA1 neurons were investigated in rat brain slices. The amplitude of evoked fast EPSCs decreased by 85 +/- 7% of the control 4 min after the onset of in vitro ischemia. In contrast, the exogenous glutamate-induced inward currents were augmented, while the spontaneous miniature EPSCs obtained in the presence of tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 microM) did not change in amplitude during in vitro ischemia. In a normoxic medium, a pair of fast EPSCs was elicited by paired-pulse stimulation (40-ms interval), and the amplitude of the second fast EPSC increased to 156 +/- 24% of the first EPSC amplitude. The ratio of paired-pulse facilitation (PPF ratio) increased during in vitro ischemia. Pretreatment of the slices with adenosine 1 (A1) receptor antagonist, 8-cyclopenthyltheophiline (8-CPT) antagonized the depression of the fast EPSCs, in a concentration-dependent manner: in the presence of 8-CPT (1-10 microM), the amplitude of the fast EPSCs decreased by only 20% of the control during in vitro ischemia. In addition, 8-CPT antagonized the enhancement of the PPF ratio during in vitro ischemia. A pair of presynaptic volleys and excitatory postsynaptic field potentials (fEPSPs) were extracellularly recorded in a proximal part of the stratum radiatum in the CA1 region. The PPF ratio for the fEPSPs also increased during in vitro ischemia. On the other hand, the amplitudes of the first and second presynaptic volley, which were abolished by TTX (0.5 microM), did not change during in vitro ischemia. The maximal slope of the Ca(2+)-dependent action potential of the CA3 neurons, which were evoked in the presence of 8-CPT (1 microM), nifedipine (20 microM), TTX (0.5 microM), and tetraethyl ammonium chloride (20 mM), decreased by 12 +/- 6% of the control 4 min after the onset of in vitro ischemia. These results suggest that in vitro ischemia depresses the evoked fast EPSCs mainly via the presynaptic A1 receptors, and the remaining 8-CPT-resistant depression of the fast EPSCs is probably due to a direct inhibition of the Ca(2+) influx to the axon terminals.

Hypoxic augmentation of fast-inactivating and persistent sodium currents in rat caudal hypothalamic neurons

Previous work from this laboratory has indicated that TTX-sensitive sodium channels are involved in the hypoxia-induced inward current response of caudal hypothalamic neurons. Since this inward current underlies the depolarization and increased firing frequency observed in these cells during hypoxia, the present study utilized more detailed biophysical methods to specifically determine which sodium currents are responsible for this hypoxic activation. Caudal hypothalamic neurons from approximately 3-wk-old Sprague-Dawley rats were acutely dissociated and patch-clamped in the voltage-clamp mode to obtain recordings from fast-inactivating and persistent (noninactivating) whole cell sodium currents. Using computer-generated activation and inactivation voltage protocols, rapidly inactivating sodium currents were analyzed during normal conditions and during a brief (3-6 min) period of severe hypoxia. In addition, voltage-ramp and extended-voltage-activation protocols were used to analyze persistent sodium currents during normal conditions and during hypoxia. A polarographic oxygen electrode determined that the level of oxygen in this preparation quickly dropped to 10 Torr within 2 min of initiation of hypoxia and stabilized at <0.5 Torr within 4 min. During hypoxia, the peak fast-inactivating sodium current was significantly increased throughout the entire activation range, and both the activation and inactivation values (V(1/2)) were negatively shifted. Furthermore both the voltage-ramp and extended-activation protocols demonstrated a significant increase in the persistent sodium current during hypoxia when compared with normoxia. These results demonstrate that both rapidly inactivating and persistent sodium currents are significantly enhanced by a brief hypoxic stimulus. Furthermore the hypoxic-induced increase in these currents most likely is the primary mechanism for the depolarization and increased firing frequency observed in caudal hypothalamic neurons during hypoxia. Since these neurons are important in modulating cardiorespiratory activity, the oxygen responsiveness of these sodium currents may play a significant role in the centrally mediated cardiorespiratory response to hypoxia.

Rat hippocampal slices need bicarbonate for the recovery of synaptic transmission after anoxia

The purpose of this study was to see how the nominal removal of bicarbonate (HCO(-)(3)) from the extracellular space of brain tissue influenced recovery of brain tissue from anoxia. Removal of HCO(-)(3) in HEPES-buffered artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) inhibited almost completely recovery of synaptic transmission in hippocampal slices after anoxia. Altered pH did not contribute to this finding because adjusting intracellular (pH(i)) and extracellular (pH(o)) pH to control levels did not reduce the effect of HCO(-)(3) removal. Our results suggest that HCO(-)(3) levels are important in determining the extent of anoxic or ischemic brain injury.

Anoxia-evoked intracellular pH and Ca2+ concentration changes in cultured postnatal rat hippocampal neurons

The ratiometric indicators 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein and Fura-2 were employed to examine, respectively, intracellular pH (pHi) and calcium ([Ca2+]i) changes evoked by anoxia in cultured postnatal rat hippocampal neurons at 37 degrees C. Under both HCO3-/CO2- and HEPES-buffered conditions, 3-, 5- or 10-min anoxia induced a triphasic change in pHi consisting of an initial fall in pHi, a subsequent rise in pHi in the continued absence of O2 and, finally, a further rise in pHi upon the return to normoxia, which recovered towards preanoxic steady-state pHi values if the duration of the anoxic insult was < or = 5 min. In parallel experiments performed on sister cultures, anoxia of 3, 5 or 10 min duration evoked rises in [Ca2+]i which, in all cases, commenced after the start of the fall in pHi, reached a peak at or just following the return to normoxia and then declined towards preanoxic resting levels. Removal of external Ca2+ markedly attenuated increases in [Ca2+]i, but failed to affect the pHi changes evoked by 5 min anoxia. The latency from the start of anoxia to the start of the increase in pHi observed during anoxia was increased by perfusion with media containing either 2 mM Na+, 20 mM glucose or 1 microM tetrodotoxin. Because each of these manoeuvres is known to delay the onset and/or attenuate the magnitude of anoxic depolarization, the results suggest that the rise in pHi observed during anoxia may be consequent upon membrane depolarization. This possibility was also suggested by the findings that Zn2+ and Cd2+, known blockers of voltage-dependent proton conductances, reduced the magnitude of the rise in pHi observed during anoxia. Under HCO3-/CO2-free conditions, reduction of external Na+ by substitution with N-methyl-D-glucamine (but not Li+) attenuated the magnitude of the postanoxic alkalinization, suggesting that increased Na+/H+ exchange activity contributes to the postanoxic rise in pHi. In support, rates of pHi recovery from internal acid loads imposed following anoxia were increased compared to control values established prior to anoxia in the same neurons. In contrast, rates of pHi recovery from acid loads imposed during anoxia were reduced, suggesting the possibility that Na+/H+ exchange is inhibited during anoxia. We conclude that the steady-state pHi response of cultured rat hippocampal neurons to transient anoxia is independent of changes in [Ca2+]i and is characterized by three phases which are determined, at least in part, by alterations in Na+/H- exchange activity and, possibly, by a proton conductance which is activated during membrane depolarization.

O(2) deprivation inhibits Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels via cytosolic factors in mice neocortical neurons

O(2) deprivation induces membrane depolarization in mammalian central neurons. It is possible that this anoxia-induced depolarization is partly mediated by an inhibition of K(+) channels. We therefore performed experiments using patch-clamp techniques and dissociated neurons from mice neocortex. Three types of K(+) channels were observed in both cell-attached and inside-out configurations, but only one of them was sensitive to lack of O(2). This O(2)-sensitive K(+) channel was identified as a large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel (BK(Ca)), as it exhibited a large conductance of 210 pS under symmetrical K(+) (140 mM) conditions, a strong voltage-dependence of activation, and a marked sensitivity to Ca(2+). A low-O(2) medium (PO(2) = 10-20 mmHg) markedly inhibited this BK(Ca) channel open probability in a voltage-dependent manner in cell-attached patches, but not in inside-out patches, indicating that the effect of O(2) deprivation on BK(Ca) channels of mice neocortical neurons was mediated via cytosol-dependent processes. Lowering intracellular pH (pH(i)), or cytosolic addition of the catalytic subunit of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase A in the presence of Mg-ATP, caused a decrease in BK(Ca) channel activity by reducing the sensitivity of this channel to Ca(2+). In contrast, the reducing agents glutathione and DTT increased single BK(Ca) channel open probability without affecting unitary conductance. We suggest that in neocortical neurons, (a) BK(Ca) is modulated by O(2) deprivation via cytosolic factors and cytosol-dependent processes, and (b) the reduction in channel activity during hypoxia is likely due to reduced Ca(2+) sensitivity resulting from cytosolic alternations such as in pH(i) and phosphorylation. Because of their large conductance and prevalence in the neocortex, BK(Ca) channels may be considered as a target for pharmacological intervention in conditions of acute anoxia or ischemia.

Membrane dysfunction induced by in vitro ischemia in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons

Intracellular and single-electrode voltage-clamp recordings were made to investigate the process of membrane dysfunction induced by superfusion with oxygen and glucose-deprived (ischemia-simulating) medium in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat tissue slices. To assess correlation between potential change and membrane dysfunction, the recorded neurons were stained intracellularly with biocytin. A rapid depolarization was produced approximately 6 min after starting superfusion with ischemia-simulating medium. When oxygen and glucose were reintroduced to the bathing medium immediately after generating the rapid depolarization, the membrane did not repolarize but depolarized further, the potential reaching 0 mV approximately 5 min after the reintroduction. In single-electrode voltage-clamp recording, a corresponding rapid inward current was observed when the membrane potential was held at -70 mV. After the reintroduction of oxygen and glucose, the current induced by ischemia-simulating medium partially returned to preexposure levels. These results suggest that the membrane depolarization is involved with the membrane dysfunction. The morphological aspects of biocytin-stained neurons during ischemic exposure were not significantly different from control neurons before the rapid depolarization. On the other hand, small blebs were observed on the surface of the neuron within 0.5 min of generating the rapid depolarization, and blebs increased in size after 1 min. After 3 min, neurons became larger and swollen. The long and transverse axes and area of the cross-sectional cell body were increased significantly 1 and 3 min after the rapid depolarization. When Ca2+-free (0 mM) with Co2+ (2.5 mM)-containing medium including oxygen and glucose was applied within 1 min after the rapid depolarization, the membrane potential was restored completely to the preexposure level in the majority of neurons. In these neurons, the long axis was lengthened without any blebs being apparent on the membrane surface. These results suggest that the membrane dysfunction induced by in vitro ischemia may be due to a Ca2+-dependent process that commences approximately 1.5 min after and is completed 3 min after the onset of the rapid depolarization. Because small blebs occurred immediately after the rapid depolarization and large blebs appeared 1.5-3 min after, it is likely that the transformation from small to large blebs may result in the observed irreversible membrane dysfunction.

Regulation of presynaptic NMDA responses by external and intracellular pH changes at developing neuromuscular synapses

NMDA receptors play important roles in synaptic plasticity and neuronal development. The functions of NMDA receptors are modulated by many endogenous substances, such as external pH (pHe), as well as second messenger systems. In the present study, the nerve-muscle cocultures of Xenopus embryos were used to investigate the effects of both external and intracellular pH (pHi) changes on the functional responses of presynaptic NMDA receptors. Spontaneous synaptic currents (SSCs) were recorded from innervated myocyte using whole-cell recordings. Local perfusion of NMDA at synaptic regions increased the SSC frequency via the activation of presynaptic NMDA receptors. A decrease in pHe from 7.6 to 6.6 reduced NMDA responses to 23% of the control, and an increase in pHe from 7.6 to 8.6 potentiated the NMDA responses in increasing SSC frequency. The effect of NMDA on intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was also affected by pHe changes: external acidification inhibited and alkalinization potentiated [Ca2+]i increases induced by NMDA. Intracellular pH changes of single soma were measured by ratio fluorometric method using 2,7-bis (carboxyethyl)-5, 6-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). Cytosolic acidification was used in which NaCl in Ringer's solution was replaced with weak organic acids. Acetate and propionate but not methylsulfate substitution caused intracellular acidification and potentiated NMDA responses in increasing SSC frequency, intracellular free Ca2+ concentration, and NMDA-induced currents. On the other hand, cytosolic alkalinization with NH4Cl did not significantly affect these NMDA responses. These results suggest that the functions of NMDA receptors are modulated by both pHe and pHi changes, which may occur in some physiological or pathological conditions.

Regulation of acetylcholine release by intracellular acidification of developing motoneurons in Xenopus cell cultures

1. The effects of intracellular pH changes on the acetylcholine (ACh) release and cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration at developing neuromuscular synapses were studied in Xenopus nerve-muscle co-cultures. 2. Spontaneous and evoked ACh release of motoneurons was monitored by using whole-cell voltage-clamped myocytes. Intracellular alkalinization with 15 mM NH4Cl slightly reduced the frequency of spontaneous synaptic currents (SSCs). However, cytosolic acidification following withdrawal of extracellular NH4Cl caused a marked and transient increase in spontaneous ACh release. 3. Another method of cytosolic acidification was used in which NaCl in Ringer solution was replaced with weak organic acids. The increase in spontaneous ACh release paralleled the level of intracellular acidification resulting from addition of these organic acids. Acetate and propionate but not isethionate, methylsulphate and glucuronate, caused an increase in intracellular pH and a marked increase in spontaneous ACh release. 4. Impulse-evoked ACh release was slightly augmented by intracellular alkalinization and inhibited by cytosolic acidification. 5. Cytosolic acidification was accompanied by an elevation in the cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), resulting from both external Ca2+ influx and intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. In contrast, the increase in [Ca2+]i induced by high K+ was inhibited by cytosolic acidification. 6. We conclude that cytosolic acidification regulates spontaneous and evoked ACh release differentially in Xenopus motoneurons, increasing spontaneous ACh release but inhibiting evoked ACh release.

Intracellular acidification induced by membrane depolarization in rat hippocampal slices: roles of intracellular Ca2+ and glycolysis

To elucidate the mechanism of pHi changes induced by membrane depolarization, the variations in pHi and [Ca2+]i induced by a number of depolarizing agents, including high K+, veratridine, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and ouabain, were investigated in rat hippocampal slices by the fluorophotometrical technique using BCECF or fura-2. All of these depolarizing agents elicited a decrease in pHi and an elevation of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in the CA1 pyramidal cell layer. The increases in [Ca2+]i caused by the depolarizing agents almost completely disappeared in the absence of Ca2+ (0 mM Ca2+ with 1 mM EGTA). In Ca2+ free media, pHi acid shifts produced by high K+, veratridine or NMDA were attenuated by 10-25%, and those produced by ouabain decreased by 50%. Glucose-substitution with equimolar amounts of pyruvate suppressed by two-thirds the pHi acid shifts induced by both high K+ and NMDA. Furthermore, lactate contents were significantly increased in hippocampal slices by exposure to high K+, veratridine or NMDA but not by ouabain. These results suggest that the intracellular acidification produced by these depolarizing agents, with the exception of ouabain, is mainly due to lactate accumulation which may occur as a result of accelerated glycolysis mediated by increased Na+-K+ ATPase activity. A Ca2+-dependent process may also contribute to the intracellular acidification induced by membrane depolarization. Since an increase in H+ concentration can attenuate neuronal activity, glycolytic acid production induced by membrane depolarization may contribute to the mechanism that prevents excessive neuronal excitation.

Mechanisms underlying the rapid depolarization produced by deprivation of oxygen and glucose in rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in vitro

Intracellular recordings were made to investigate the mechanism, site, and ionic basis of generation of the rapid depolarization induced by superfusion with ischemia-simulating medium in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat tissue slices. Superfusion with ischemia-simulating medium produced a rapid depolarization after approximately 6 min of exposure. When oxygen and glucose were reintroduced, the membrane potential did not repolarize but depolarized further, reaching 0 mV approximately 5 min after reintroduction. Simultaneous recordings of changes in cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and membrane potential recorded from 1-[6-amino-2-(5-carboxy-2-oxazolyl)-5-benzofuranyloxy]-2-(2- amino-5-methylphenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid pentaacetoxymethyl ester (Fura-2/AM) loaded slices revealed a rapid increase in [Ca2+]i in all CA1 layers corresponding to the rapid depolarization of the soma membrane. The result suggests that the rapid depolarization is generated not only in the soma but also in the apical and basal dendrites. Application of 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX), DL-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid, and DL-2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid or bicuculline did not affect the amplitude and the maximal slope. Reduction in the concentration of extracellular Ca2+ or addition of CNQX or DL-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid delayed the onset of the rapid depolarization. The amplitude of the rapid depolarization recorded with Cs acetate electrodes in tetraethylammonium-containing medium had a linear relationship to the membrane potential between -50 and 20 mV. The reversal potential was shifted in the hyperpolarizing direction by a decrease in either [Na+]o or [Ca2+]o, whereas the reversal potential was shifted in the depolarizing direction by a decrease in [Cl-]o or using CsCl electrodes. An increase or decrease in [K+]o did not affect the reversal potential. These results indicate that the rapid depolarization is Na+, Ca2+, and Cl- dependent. The lack of effects of changes in [K+]o is probably due to the accumulation of interstitial K+ before generating the rapid depolarization. Prolonged application of ouabain (30 microM) caused an initial small hyperpolarization, a subsequent slow depolarization, and a rapid depolarization. In summary, the present study has demonstrated that the rapid depolarization is voltage-independent and is probably due to a nonselective increase in permeability to all participating ions, which may occur only in pathological conditions. The underlying conductance change is primarily the result of inhibition of Na,K-ATPase activity in the recorded neuron.

NMDA induces a biphasic change in intracellular pH in rat hippocampal slices

As alterations in intracellular pH (pH(i)) tend to exert a profound effect on the properties of cells, this study was undertaken to examine NMDA-induced changes in pH(i) in rat hippocampal slices using the BCECF fluorescent technique. The 'resting' pH(i) in the CA1 pyramidal cell layers was 6.93 +/- 0.07 (mean +/- S.D., n = 72 slices) in 25 mM HCO3-/5% CO2-buffered solution at 37 degrees C. Exposure of hippocampal slices to NMDA in the range of 10-1000 microM produced a biphasic change in pH(i): an initial transient alkaline shift was followed by a long-lasting acid shift. Dizocilpine (10 microM) but not CNQX (40 microM) blocked the NMDA-induced changes in pH(i). In 0 Ca medium (0 mM Ca2+ supplemented 1 mM EGTA, referred to as 0 Ca), pH(i) acid shift caused by NMDA (20 microM) declined by about 11%, whereas the initial alkaline shift almost completely disappeared. In an independent experiment, the NMDA-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) was reduced by more than 80% in 0 Ca medium. Glucose substitution using equimolar pyruvate (as an energy-yielding substrate) suppressed this NMDA-induced pH(i) acid shift by two-thirds, while the NMDA-induced pH(i) alkaline shift was enhanced. Fluoride (10 mM), a glycolytic inhibitor, abolished NMDA-induced pH(i) acid shift. Furthermore, the lactate content of hippocampal slices was markedly increased following exposure to NMDA. In conclusion, activation of NMDA receptors in rat hippocampal slices evokes a biphasic change in pH(i). The initial alkaline shift is suggested to be associated with calcium influx, and the following acid shift may be caused by an increase in lactate production through the acceleration of glycolysis, as well as the increased [Ca2+]i. The pH(i) acid shift produced by the increased lactate may contribute to proton modulation of the NMDA receptor and NMDA-induced cell injury or death.

The influence of age of pH regulation in hippocampal slices before, during, and after anoxia

Changes in intracellular and extracellular pH may influence the vulnerability of brain tissue to anoxic or ischemic damage. In the present study, we investigated whether the increased vulnerability of aged brain tissue to anoxic damage is associated with age-related alterations in pH regulation. We obtained evidence for altered pH regulation by measuring concurrent changes in intracellular and extracellular pH before, during, and after anoxia in hippocampal slices from young adult (6-8 months old) and aged (24-27 months old) rats. We found indications of impaired pH regulation in aged hippocampal slices (a) before anoxia, as seen in a lower resting intracellular pH, (b) during anoxia, as seen in a slower decline in extracellular pH, and (c) during recovery after anoxia, as seen in a slower rate of recovery of intracellular pH. Age-related changes in pH regulation may contribute to the faster onset of anoxic depolarization in aged brain tissue during anoxia.

The amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ exchange antiporter and control of intracellular pH in hippocampal brain slices

The intracellular pH, 7.54 +/- 0.03 (mean +/- S.D., n = 15), determined with the Neutral red method, of the hippocampal brain slice preparation under baseline incubation conditions is considerably more alkaline than the bath buffer pH. Neutralization by amiloride suggests that the alkalinity was due to Na+/H+ exchange antiporter activation. To characterize the brain Na+/H+ exchange antiporter we compared the inhibitory effects of MIA, amiloride and other 5-N substituted analogues on proton extrusion after acid loading by transient exposure to ammonium chloride in the isolated hippocampal brain slice preparation. The potencies of amiloride compounds on the initial recovery rate of intracellular pH after acid-loading were DMA > MIA > HMA = MHA > or = IPA-HCI > IPA > MNPA = Amil > Benzamil. The greater potency of the 5-N substituted analogs of amiloride over amiloride and benzamil strongly suggest that Na+/H+ exchange antiporter is the mechanism responsible for alkalinization in the isolated hippocampal brain slice in vitro.

Ischemia and lesion induced imbalances in cortical function

Cortical structures are often critically affected by ischemic and traumatic lesions which may cause transient or permanent functional disturbances. These disorders consist of changes in the membrane properties of single cells and alterations in synaptic network interactions within and between cortical areas including large-scale reorganizations in the representation of the peripheral input. Prominent functional modifications consisting of massive membrane depolarizations, suppression of intracortical inhibitory synaptic mechanisms and enhancement of excitatory synaptic transmission can be observed within a few minutes following the onset of cortical hypoxia or ischemia and probably represent the trigger signals for the induction of neuronal hyperexcitability, irreversible cellular dysfunction and cell death. Pharmacological manipulation of these early events may therefore be the most effective approach to control ischemia and lesion induced disturbances and to attenuate long-term neurological deficits. The complexity of secondary structural and functional alterations in cortical and subcortical structures demands an early and powerful intervention before neuronal damage expands to intact regions. The unsatisfactory clinical experience with calcium and N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonists suggests that this result might be achieved with compounds that show a broad spectrum of actions at different ligand-activated receptors, voltage-dependent channels and that also act at the vascular system. Whether the same therapy strategies developed for the treatment of ischemic injury in the adult brain may be applied for the immature cortex is questionable, since young cortical networks with a high degree of synaptic plasticity reveal a different response pattern to hypoxic and ischemic insults. Age-dependent molecular biological, morphological and physiological parameters contribute to an enhanced susceptibility of the immature brain to these noxae during early ontogenesis and have to be investigated in more detail for the development of adequate clinical therapy.

A modulation of glutamate-induced phosphoinositide breakdown by intracellular pH changes

The influence of intracellular pH (pHi) changes on the formation of inositol phosphate metabolites (IPs) produced by glutamatergic stimulation was studied in 8-day-old rat brain synaptoneurosomes. For this purpose pHi was measured using 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyl)-5,6-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) fluorimetric assay in parallel with the basal and receptor-mediated formations of inositol monophosphate (IP1) and inositol bisphosphate (IP2). We found that glutamate (1 mM), which induces a transient acidification (delta pH = -0.05), produces an identical accumulation of IP1 and IP2. K+ (30 mM), which provokes an alkalinization of the internal medium (delta pH = +0.22), mainly leads to the formation of IP1 metabolites. Paired combinations of glutamate with 1, 5 and 10 mM NH4+ finally result in an alkalinization of the intrasynaptoneurosomal medium. These combinations produce a strong decrease of the IP2 level concomitant with an increase of the IP1 formation, compared to the levels of IP1 and IP2 evoked by glutamate alone. The total amount of IPs (IP1 + IP2) produced by these combinations is not different from that obtained with glutamate alone. Paired combinations of carbachol with NH4+ produce an identical alkalinization to that produced by NH4+ alone. These combinations produce an increased IP1 accumulation, while the IP2 formation is slightly decreased. When the internal medium is acidified by diminishing the external concentration of Na+, the ratio IP1/IP2 produced after metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) activation is shifted to lower values, while it is not affected for the muscarinic stimulation. These data suggest that the mGluR-associated pathway in synaptoneurosomes is sensitive to pHi shifts, while the muscarinic receptor-associated pathway is less altered when pHi is manipulated. It may be proposed that pH-sensitive inositol phosphate dephosphorylating systems, i.e. phosphatases, are associated with mGluRs in this preparation.

Lidocaine reduces the hypoxia-induced release of an excitatory amino acid analog from rat striatal slices in superfusion

1. Lidocaine has been extensively investigated as a potential neuroprotective drug against ischemia-induced neurodegeneration without reaching any satisfactory conclusion. 2. The present work evaluates the effect of lidocaine -17 microM- on the hypoxia-induced release of tritiated D-aspartate from rat striatal slices in superfusion. 3. Hypoxia resulted in a significant increase in the amount of D-aspartate released from striatal slices preloaded with the tritiated excitatory amino acid analog. 4. The addition of lidocaine to the superfusion solution resulted in a drastic reduction in the amount of D-aspartate release evoked by hypoxia, rendering it close to normal values.

Prior mechanical injury inhibits rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration by oxygen-glucose deprivation in mouse hippocampal slices

Prior mechanical brain microinjury has been found to have a preventive effect on brain ischemia. To investigate the mechanism responsible for this, the effect of mechanical brain injury on changes in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in response to ischemic insult was studied in mouse hippocampal slices. The mechanical injury was made by inserting a 25G hypodermic needle into the CA1 region of the hippocampus in mice anesthetized with pentobarbital. Sagittal slices of the hippocampus were prepared two hours, and 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after the brain injury. Changes in [Ca2+]i in the slices by oxygen-glucose deprivation were analyzed from fluorescence images, using fura-2. Increases in [Ca2+]i induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation were inhibited in the vicinity of the injury 1 and 3 days after injury. [Ca2+]i levels were lower in the posterior side from the injury than in the anterior side 1 and 3 days after injury. No significant regional differences in [Ca2+]i responses were found 2 h or 7 and 14 days after the injury. Membrane potential and membrane resistance of CA1 neurons in the vicinity of the injury measured 1 day after the injury were not significantly altered in comparison with non-injured slices. These results indicate that mechanical brain injury inhibits ischemic [Ca2+]i increase. This inhibition may be induced not only by damage of the presynaptic fibers projecting to the CA1 neurons but also by the other certain factor(s) that prevent [Ca2+]i increase, and it appears to be related to the protective effect of prior mechanical injury against ischemic neuronal damage.

Mild acidosis inhibits the rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration in response to oxygen-glucose deprivation in rat hippocampal slices

Changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) induced by ischemia in vitro (oxygen-glucose deprivation) were continuously recorded using fura-2-loaded hippocampal slices under normal (pH 7.4), acidotic (pH 6.8) and alkalotic (pH 7.8) conditions. Oxygen-glucose deprivation induced an initial slow and a subsequent characteristic rapid increase in [Ca2+]i in most of the normal and alkalotic preparations regardless of whether or not Ca2+ was present in the bathing solutions. This characteristic rapid increase in [Ca2+]i was observed in a minority of the acidotic preparations and its latency was significantly longer in acidotic preparations than in normal and alkalotic preparations. The rise in [Ca2+]i at 10 min of oxygen-glucose deprivation was significantly smaller in the acidotic preparations than in the normal and alkalotic preparations, regardless of whether or not Ca2+ was present. At 15 min, the differences in the increase in [Ca2+]i between normal and acidotic preparations in Ca(2+)-containing solutions (2.5 mM) were insignificant. However, significant differences were still observed between the acidotic preparations and either the normal or alkalotic preparations under Ca(2+)-free conditions. These results suggest that acidosis inhibits the ischemia-induced rise in [Ca2+]i by attenuating both Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space and Ca2+ release from intracellular sites.