Antibodies to the GTP binding protein, Go, antagonize noradrenaline-induced calcium current inhibition in NG108-15 hybrid cells

Neurons, Receptors, and Channels

Here, I recount some adventures that I and my colleagues have had over some 60 years since 1957 studying the effects of drugs and neurotransmitters on neuronal excitability and ion channel function, largely, but not exclusively, using sympathetic neurons as test objects. Studies include effects of centrally active drugs on sympathetic transmission; neuronal action and neuroglial uptake of GABA in the ganglia and brain; the action of muscarinic agonists on sympathetic neurons; the action of bradykinin on neuroblastoma-derived cells; and the identification of M-current as a target for muscarinic action, including experiments to determine its distribution, molecular composition, neurotransmitter sensitivity, and intracellular regulation by phospholipids and their hydrolysis products. Techniques used include electrophysiological recording (extracellular, intracellular microelectrode, whole-cell, and single-channel patch-clamp), autoradiography, messenger RNA and complementary DNA expression, antibody injection, antisense knockdown, and membrane-targeted lipidated peptides. I finish with some recollections about my scientific career, funding, and changes in laboratory life and pharmacology research over the past 60 years.

Strategies for Investigating G-Protein Modulation of Voltage-Gated Ca2+ Channels

G-protein-coupled receptor modulation of voltage-gated ion channels is a common means of fine-tuning the response of channels to changes in membrane potential. Such modulation impacts physiological processes such as synaptic transmission, and hence therapeutic strategies often directly or indirectly target these pathways. As an exemplar of channel modulation, we examine strategies for investigating G-protein modulation of CaV2.2 or N-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. We focus on biochemical and genetic tools for defining the molecular mechanisms underlying the various forms of CaV2.2 channel modulation initiated following ligand binding to G-protein-coupled receptors.

Gnaq and Gna11 in the Endothelin Signaling Pathway and Melanoma

In this article, we first briefly outline the function of G protein coupled receptors in cancer, and then specifically examine the roles of the seven transmembrane G protein coupled Endothelin B receptor (Ednrb) and the G proteins, GNAQ and GNA11, in both melanocyte development and melanoma. Ednrb plays an essential role in melanocyte development. GNAQ and GNA11 are oncogenes when mutated in certain types of melanocytic lesions, being extremely frequent in uveal melanoma, which forms from melanocytes located in the eye. Previously, we reported that in mice, Schwann cell precursor derived melanocytes colonize the dermis and hair follicles, while the inter-follicular epidermis is populated by other melanocytes. A pattern has emerged whereby melanocytes whose activities are affected by gain-of-function mutations of the Endothelin 3 ligand and Gα_q/11 are the same subset that arise from Schwann cell precursors. Furthermore, the forced expression of the constitutively active human GNAQ^Q209L oncogene in mouse melanocytes only causes hyper-proliferation in the subset that arise from Schwann cell precursors. This has led us to hypothesize that in Schwann cell precursor derived melanocytes, Ednrb signals through Gα_q/11. Ednrb is promiscuous and may signal through other G protein alpha subunits in melanomas located in the inter-follicular epidermis.

G protein regulation of neuronal calcium channels: back to the future

Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels have evolved as one of the most important players for calcium entry into presynaptic endings responsible for the release of neurotransmitters. In turn, and to fine-tune synaptic activity and neuronal communication, numerous neurotransmitters exert a potent negative feedback over the calcium signal provided by G protein-coupled receptors. This regulation pathway of physiologic importance is also extensively exploited for therapeutic purposes, for instance in the treatment of neuropathic pain by morphine and other μ-opioid receptor agonists. However, despite more than three decades of intensive research, important questions remain unsolved regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of direct G protein inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. In this study, we revisit this particular regulation and explore new considerations.

De Novo mutations in GNAO1, encoding a Gαo subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins, cause epileptic encephalopathy

Heterotrimeric G proteins, composed of α, β, and γ subunits, can transduce a variety of signals from seven-transmembrane-type receptors to intracellular effectors. By whole-exome sequencing and subsequent mutation screening, we identified de novo heterozygous mutations in GNAO1, which encodes a Gαo subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins, in four individuals with epileptic encephalopathy. Two of the affected individuals also showed involuntary movements. Somatic mosaicism (approximately 35% to 50% of cells, distributed across multiple cell types, harbored the mutation) was shown in one individual. By mapping the mutation onto three-dimensional models of the Gα subunit in three different complexed states, we found that the three mutants (c.521A>G [p.Asp174Gly], c.836T>A [p.Ile279Asn], and c.572_592del [p.Thr191_Phe197del]) are predicted to destabilize the Gα subunit fold. A fourth mutant (c.607G>A), in which the Gly203 residue located within the highly conserved switch II region is substituted to Arg, is predicted to impair GTP binding and/or activation of downstream effectors, although the p.Gly203Arg substitution might not interfere with Gα binding to G-protein-coupled receptors. Transient-expression experiments suggested that localization to the plasma membrane was variably impaired in the three putatively destabilized mutants. Electrophysiological analysis showed that Gαo-mediated inhibition of calcium currents by norepinephrine tended to be lower in three of the four Gαo mutants. These data suggest that aberrant Gαo signaling can cause multiple neurodevelopmental phenotypes, including epileptic encephalopathy and involuntary movements.

Differentiation of human T cells alters their repertoire of G protein alpha-subunits

Because T cell differentiation leads to an expanded repertoire of chemokine receptors, a subgroup of G protein-coupled receptors, we hypothesized that the repertoire of G proteins might be altered in parallel. We analyzed the abundance of mRNA and/or protein of six G protein α-subunits in human CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell subsets from blood. Although most G protein α-subunits were similarly expressed in all subsets, the abundance of Gα(o), a protein not previously described in hematopoietic cells, was much higher in memory versus naive cells. Consistent with these data, activation of naive CD4(+) T cells in vitro significantly increased the abundance of Gα(o) in cells stimulated under nonpolarizing or T(H)17 (but not T(H)1 or T(H)2)-polarizing conditions. In functional studies, the use of a chimeric G protein α-subunit, Gα(qo5), demonstrated that chemokine receptors could couple to Gα(o)-containing G proteins. We also found that Gα(i1), another α-subunit not described previously in leukocytes, was expressed in naive T cells but virtually absent from memory subsets. Corresponding to their patterns of expression, siRNA-mediated knockdown of Gα(o) in memory (but not naive) and Gα(i1) in naive (but not memory) CD4(+) T cells inhibited chemokine-dependent migration. Moreover, although even in Gα(o)- and Gα(i1)-expressing cells mRNAs of these α-subunits were much less abundant than Gα(i2) or Gα(i3), knockdown of any of these subunits impaired chemokine receptor-mediated migration similarly. Together, our data reveal a change in the repertoire of Gα(i/o) subunits during T cell differentiation and suggest functional equivalence among Gα(i/o) subunits irrespective of their relative abundance.

Immunopharmacology--antibodies for specific modulation of proteins involved in neuronal function

The application of antibodies to living neurones has the potential to modulate function of specific proteins by virtue of their high specificity. This specificity has proven effective in determining the involvement of many proteins in neuronal function where specific agonists and antagonists do not exist, e.g. ion channel subunits. We discuss studies where antibodies modulate functions of voltage gated sodium, voltage gated potassium, voltage gated calcium hyperpolarisation activated cyclic nucleotide (HCN gated) and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. Ligand gated channels studied in this way include nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, purinoceptors and GABA receptors. Antibodies have also helped reveal the involvement of different intracellular proteins in neuronal functions including G-proteins as well as other proteins involved in trafficking, phosphoinositide signalling and neurotransmitter release. Some suggestions for control experiments are made to help validate the method. We conclude that antibodies can be extremely valuable in determining the functions of specific proteins in living neurones in neuroscience research.

alpha2-Adrenergic receptor-mediated modulation of calcium current in neocortical pyramidal neurons

Noradrenergic projections to the cortex modulate a variety of cortical activities and calcium channels are one likely target for such modulation. We used the whole-cell patch-clamp technique to study noradrenergic modulation of barium currents in acutely dissociated pyramidal neurons from rat sensorimotor cortex. Extracellular application of specific agonists and antagonists revealed that norepinephrine (NE) reduced Ca2+ current. A major component of this modulation was due to activation of alpha2 receptors. Activation of alpha2-adrenergic receptors resulted in a fast, voltage-dependent pathway involving Gi/Go G-proteins. This pathway targeted N- and P-type calcium channels The alpha2 modulation was partially reversed by repeated action potential waveforms (APWs). N- and P-type channels have been implicated in synaptic transmission and activation of afterhyperpolarizations in these cells. Our findings suggest that NE can regulate these cellular processes by mechanisms sensitive to spike activity.

G Protein Modulation of Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels

Calcium influx into any cell requires fine tuning to guarantee the correct balance between activation of calcium-dependent processes, such as muscle contraction and neurotransmitter release, and calcium-induced cell damage. G protein-coupled receptors play a critical role in negative feedback to modulate the activity of the CaV2 subfamily of the voltage-dependent calcium channels, which are largely situated on neuronal and neuro-endocrine cells. The basis for the specificity of the relationships among membrane receptors, G proteins, and effector calcium channels will be discussed, as well as the mechanism by which G protein-mediated inhibition is thought to occur. The inhibition requires free G beta gamma dimers, and the cytoplasmic linker between domains I and II of the CaV2 alpha 1 subunits binds G beta gamma dimers, whereas the intracellular N terminus of CaV2 alpha 1 subunits provides essential determinants for G protein modulation. Evidence suggests a key role for the beta subunits of calcium channels in the process of G protein modulation, and the role of a class of proteins termed "regulators of G protein signaling" will also be described.

Noradrenaline receptor-mediated potentiation of caffeine-induced Ca( 2+)-activated K(+) currents in bovine ciliary muscle cells

PURPOSE

Adrenoceptor-mediated modulation of a caffeine (CAF)-induced [Ca(2+)](i) elevation and resulting Ca(2+)-activated K(+) current (I(CAF)) in bovine ciliary muscle (CM) cells were investigated.

METHODS

The nystatin-perforated patch clamp technique for the measurement of membrane currents and a microscope based fura-2 fluorescence imaging of [Ca(2+)](i) were applied to CM cells freshly dissociated with collagenase and identified with smooth muscle-specific alpha-isoactin.

RESULTS

Under voltage-clamped conditions, noradrenaline (NA) potentiated I(CAF) in a NA concentration-dependent manner without producing current responses to NA when NA was applied alone. NA-induced potentiation of I(CAF) occurred within 20 sec after the application of NA, while the NA-potentiated I(CAF) gradually recovered to the control level within 30 min after removal of NA. Despite the little current response to NA applied alone, NA elicited a [Ca(2+)](i) elevation in a manner similar to that induced by CAF although the NA-induced [Ca(2+ )](i) elevation was smaller than the CAF-induced [Ca(2+ )](i) elevation. In contrast to the significant potentiation of I(CAF) with NA, NA produced little potentiation of the CAF-induced [Ca(2+)](i) elevation. The NA-induced potentiation of I( CAF) was antagonized by an alpha(1) adrenoceptor antagonist, prazosin. Neither clonidine nor isoproterenol had an effect on I(CAF), suggesting that alpha(2) and beta adrenoceptor are not involved in the response to NA.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that NA potentiates I( CAF) via alpha(1) adrenoceptor activation and that the NA-induced potentiation occurs at Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels but not CAF-induced Ca(2+) releasing sites.

Decay in prepulse facilitation of calcium channel currents by Gi/o-protein attenuation in hamster submandibular ganglion neurons, but not Gq/11

The calcium ion influx through voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) has a vital role in the control of neurotransmitter release and membrane excitability. Prepulse facilitation is a phenomenon in which a strong depolarizing pulse induces a form of the VDCCs that exhibits an increased opening probability in response to a given test potential; this persists for several seconds after repolarization. It has been reported that prepulse facilitation occurs via dissociation of the guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-binding proteins (G-proteins) from the VDCCs and that recovery from facilitation involves rebinding of the G-proteins. The heterotrimeric G-proteins act as switches that regulate information processing circuits connecting cell surface G-protein-coupled-receptors to a variety of effectors. In this study, we have studied the characterization of G-protein subtypes in prepulse facilitation of VDCCs currents (Ica) in hamster submandibular ganglion (SMG) neurons, using whole-cell patch clamp recordings. Under control conditions, with GTP (0.1 mM) in the recording pipette, the rate of prepulse facilitation was 19.0 +/- 1.9% (n = 13). Intracellular dialysis with GDP-beta-S (0.1 mM), G-protein blocker, and pretreatment of neurons with N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) (100 microM for 2 min), Gi/o blocker, attenuated the rate of prepulse facilitation. Intracellular dialysis of anti-Gq/11-antibody did not alter it. These results suggest that prepulse facilitation of VDCCs is due to Gi/o-types of G-protein, but not to the Gq/11-type, in SMG neurons.

Altered regulation of potassium and calcium channels by GABA(B) and adenosine receptors in hippocampal neurons from mice lacking Galpha(o)

To examine the role of G(o) in modulation of ion channels by neurotransmitter receptors, we characterized modulation of ionic currents in hippocampal CA3 neurons from mice lacking both isoforms of Galpha(o). In CA3 neurons from Galpha(o)(-/-) mice, 2-chloro-adenosine and the GABA(B)-receptor agonist baclofen activated inwardly rectifying K(+) currents and inhibited voltage-dependent Ca(2+) currents just as effectively as in Galpha(o)(+/+) littermates. However, the kinetics of transmitter action were dramatically altered in Galpha(o)(-/-) mice in that recovery on washout of agonist was much slower. For example, recovery from 2-chloro-adenosine inhibition of calcium current was more than fourfold slower in neurons from Galpha(o)(-/-) mice [time constant of 12.0 +/- 0.8 (SE) s] than in neurons from Galpha(o)(+/+) mice (time constant of 2.6 +/- 0.2 s). Recovery from baclofen effects was affected similarly. In neurons from control mice, effects of both baclofen and 2-chloro-adenosine on Ca(2+) currents and K(+) currents were abolished by brief exposure to external N-ethyl-maleimide (NEM). In neurons lacking Galpha(o), some inhibition of Ca(2+) currents by baclofen remained after NEM treatment, whereas baclofen activation of K(+) currents and both effects of 2-chloro-adenosine were abolished. These results show that modulation of Ca(2+) and K(+) currents by G protein-coupled receptors in hippocampal neurons does not have an absolute requirement for Galpha(o). However, modulation is changed in the absence of Galpha(o) in having much slower recovery kinetics. A likely possibility is that the very abundant Galpha(o) is normally used but, when absent, can readily be replaced by G proteins with different properties.

An Asp79Asn mutation of the alpha2A-adrenoceptor interferes equally with agonist activation of individual Gialpha-family G protein subtypes

The quantitative effects of an Asp79Asn mutation in the porcine alpha2A-adrenoceptor on adrenaline-mediated stimulation of the alpha subunit of individual members of the Gi family of G proteins were assessed by measuring GTP turnover number for fusion proteins between the wild type or mutated receptor and pertussis toxin-resistant forms of each of Gi1, Gi2 and Gi3. In each case the receptor mutation limited activation of the G protein to 8-14% of that produced by the wild type receptor. Previous demonstration that in a single cell this mutation selectively interferes with alpha2A-adrenoceptor regulation of distinct effector end points transduced by Gi family members must therefore reflect differential requirements for amplification or the cellular location of individual, co-expressed, G proteins.

Role of the D2 dopamine receptor in molecular adaptation to chronic hypoxia in PC12 cells

We have previously shown that pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells rapidly depolarize and undergo Ca2+ influx through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels in response to moderate hypoxia and that intracellular free Ca2+ is modulated by activation of dopamine D2 receptors in this cell type. The present study shows that D2 (quinpirole-mediated) inhibition of a voltage-dependent Ca2+ current (ICa) in PC12 cells is dramatically attenuated after chronic exposure to moderate hypoxia (24 h at 10% O2). Pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin abolished D2-mediated inhibition of ICa. The D2-induced inhibition of ICa did not depend on protein kinase A (PKA), as it persisted both in the presence of a specific PKA inhibitor (PKI) and in PKA-deficient PC12 cells. Prolonged exposure to hypoxia (24 h) significantly reduced the level of Gi/o alpha immunoreactivity, but did not alter G beta levels. Furthermore, dialysis of recombinant G(o) alpha protein through the patch pipette restored the inhibitory effect of quinpirole in cells chronically exposed to hypoxia. We conclude that the attenuation of the D2-mediated inhibition of ICa by chronic hypoxia is caused by impaired receptor-G protein coupling, due to reduced levels of G(o) alpha protein. This attenuated feedback modulation of ICa by dopamine may allow for a more sustained Ca2+ influx and enhanced cellular excitation during prolonged hypoxia.

betagamma dimers derived from Go and Gi proteins contribute different components of adrenergic inhibition of Ca2+ channels in rat sympathetic neurones

1. Using perforated-patch recordings, we have examined the part played by endogenous G-protein subunits in the alpha2-adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition of N-type Ca2+ currents in sympathetic neurones. 2. Two components of ICa inhibition by noradrenaline were recorded: a prominent, high affinity and voltage-dependent pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive pathway and a minor, low affinity and mostly voltage-insensitive PTX-resistant pathway. 3. PTX-sensitive inhibition was reduced by microinjection of antibodies against either GalphaoA,B or Galphai1,2. The voltage-dependent fraction of inhibition was reduced by anti-Galphao but not by anti-Galphai antibody. 4. Antisense depletion of GalphaoA led to a marked reduction of noradrenaline-induced inhibition and voltage dependence. By contrast, Galphai depletion attenuated noradrenergic modulation without affecting the voltage dependence. 5. Expression of the betagamma-binding agents beta-adrenergic receptor kinase 1 (C-terminus, betaARK1C-ter) or Galphai1 with a Cys3 to Ser mutation partially prevented noradrenergic inhibition while alpha-transducin abolished it. Residual inhibition was mostly voltage independent in cells expressing betaARK1C-ter but was strongly reversed by depolarization in Galphai1 Cys3Ser-expressing cells. 6. Expression of the PTX-resistant Galphai1 Cys351Ile mutant in cells treated with PTX restored alpha2-adrenoceptor inhibition. This restored inhibition was weakly reversed by depolarization. Both the degree and voltage dependence of inhibition were correlated with the level of expression of the Galphai1 Cys351Ile subunit. 7. Our findings identify betagamma dimers associated with GalphaoA and Galphai as mediators of the PTX-sensitive alpha2-adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition of N-type Ca2+ channels. Different betagamma combinations may account for the differential voltage-dependent effects of Go and Gi on ICa.

Dissection of the calcium channel domains responsible for modulation of neuronal voltage-dependent calcium channels by G proteins

The molecular determinants for G-protein regulation of neuronal calcium channels remain controversial. We have generated a series of alpha 1B/alpha 1E chimeric channels, since rat brain alpha 1E (rbEII), unlike human alpha 1E, showed no G-protein modulation. The study, carried out in parallel using D2 receptor modulation of calcium currents in Xenopus oocytes of G beta gamma modulation of calcium currents in COS-7 cells, consistently showed an essential role for domain I (from the N terminus to the end of the I-II loop) of the alpha 1B Ca2+ channel in G-protein regulation, with no additional effect of the C terminal of alpha 1B. The I-II loop alone of alpha 1B, or the I-II loop together with the C-terminal tail, was insufficient to confer G-protein modulation of alpha 1E (rbEII). We have further observed that the alpha 1E clone rbEII is truncated at the N-terminus compared to other alpha 1 subunits, and we isolated a PCR product from rat brain equivalent to a longer N-terminal isoform. The long N-terminal alpha 1E, unlike the short form, showed G-protein modulation. Furthermore, the equivalent truncation of alpha 1B (delta N1-55) abolished G-protein modulation of alpha 1B. Thus, we propose that the N terminus of alpha 1B and alpha 1E calcium channels contains essential molecular determinants for membrane-delimited G-protein inhibition, and that other regions, including the I-II loop and the C terminus, do not play a conclusive role alone.

Transport of CSF antibodies to Galpha subunits across neural membranes requires binding to the target protein and protein kinase C activity

In the light of functional studies, it has been suggested that antibodies directed to alpha subunits of G-proteins delivered into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) reached and blocked the function of neural transducer proteins. Current understanding indicates that IgGs do not move freely across plasma membranes. Therefore, to characterize the uptake of these antibodies by neural cells, anti-Gi2alpha IgGs were labeled with 125I, fluorescein or with gold particles. The expression of Galpha subunits was also reduced by blocking their mRNA with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN). Following intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of gold-conjugated anti-Gi2alpha IgGs, electrondense particles entered and became distributed in the cytoplasm and plasma membranes of neural cells. Scattered particles were also found in dendrites and nuclei. Unlabeled IgGs diminished cerebral signals of fluorescein-labeled anti-Galpha IgGs, indicating that this uptake can be saturated. Cerebral radiostaining promoted by in vivo anti-Gi2alpha 125I-IgGs was almost absent in Gi2alpha knocked-down mice, but not after decreasing the quantity of Gzalpha subunits. The immunosignals of CSF anti-Galpha 125I-IgGs, as well as the impairment of opioid-evoked antinociception, were increased by agonist-induced activation of G protein-coupled receptors. The impairing effect of the antibodies on opioid-evoked antinociception was prevented by agents blocking the cellular uptake of proteins, i.e., cytochalasin B, BSA, DMSO, H7, and by down regulation of protein kinase Cbeta1 (PKCbeta1). In mice treated with an ODN to PKCbeta1 mRNA, 125I-IgGs to Gi2alpha subunits remained bound to periventricular structures and did not spread to deeper areas of the CNS. These results indicate that IgGs delivered into the CSF show a saturable binding to Galpha subunits that translocate to the external side of the neural membrane before being internalized by a PKCbeta1-dependent mechanism.

Delta-opioid receptors on astroglial cells in primary culture: mobilization of intracellular free calcium via a pertussis sensitive G protein

Astrocytes in primary culture from rat cerebral cortex were probed concerning the expression of delta-opioid receptors and their coupling to changes in intracellular free calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i). Fluo-3 or fura-2 based microspectrofluorometry was used for [Ca2+]i measurements on single astrocytes in a mixed astroglial-neuronal culture. Application of the selective delta-opioid receptor agonist, [D-Pen2, D-Pen5]-enkephalin (DPDPE), at concentrations ranging from 10 nM to 100 microM, induced concentration-dependent increases in [Ca2+]i (EC50 = 114 nM). The responses could be divided into two phases, with an initial spike in [Ca2+]i followed by either oscillations or a sustained elevation of [Ca2+]i. These effects were blocked by the selective delta-opioid receptor antagonist ICI 174864 (10 microM). The expression of delta-opioid receptors on astroglial cells was further verified immunohistochemically, using specific antibodies, and by Western blot analyses. Pre-treatment of the cells with pertussis toxin (100 ng/ml, 24 h) blocked the effects of delta-opioid receptor activation, consistent with a Gi- or Go-mediated response. The sustained elevation of [Ca2+]i was not observed in low extracellular Ca2+ and was partly blocked by nifedipine (1 microM), indicating the involvement of L-type Ca2+ channels. Stimulating neurons with DPDPE resulted in a decrease in [Ca2+]i, which may be consistent with the closure of the plasma membrane Ca2+ channels on these cells. The current results suggest a role for astrocytes in the response of the brain to delta-opioid peptides and that these opioid effects in part involve altered astrocytic intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis.

Differential interactions of the C terminus and the cytoplasmic I-II loop of neuronal Ca2+ channels with G-protein alpha and beta gamma subunits. I. Molecular determination

Interactions of G-protein alpha (Galpha) and beta gamma subunits (Gbeta gamma) with N- (alpha1B) and P/Q-type (alpha1A) Ca2+ channels were investigated using the Xenopus oocyte expression system. Gi3alpha was found to inhibit both N- and P/Q-type channels by receptor agonists, whereas Gbeta1 gamma2 was responsible for prepulse facilitation of N-type channels. L-type channels (alpha1C) were not regulated by Galpha or Gbeta gamma. For N-type, prepulse facilitation mediated via Gbeta gamma was impaired when the cytoplasmic I-II loop (loop 1) was deleted or replaced with the alpha1C loop 1. Galpha-mediated inhibitions were also impaired by substitution of the alpha1C loop 1, but only when the C terminus was deleted. For P/Q-type, by contrast, deletion of the C terminus alone diminished Galpha-mediated inhibition. Moreover, a chimera of L-type with the alpha1B loop 1 gained Gbeta gamma-dependent facilitation, whereas an L-type chimera with the N- or P/Q-type C terminus gained Galpha-mediated inhibition. These findings provide evidence that loop 1 of N-type channels is a regulatory site for Gbeta gamma and the C termini of P/Q- and N-types for Galpha.

Differential interactions of the C terminus and the cytoplasmic I-II loop of neuronal Ca2+ channels with G-protein alpha and beta gamma subunits. II. Evidence for direct binding

The present study was designed to obtain evidence for direct interactions of G-protein alpha (Galpha) and beta gamma subunits (Gbeta gamma) with N- (alpha1B) and P/Q-type (alpha1A) Ca2+ channels, using synthetic peptides and fusion proteins derived from loop 1 (cytoplasmic loop between repeat I and II) and the C terminus of these channels. For N-type, prepulse facilitation as mediated by Gbeta gamma was impaired when a synthetic loop 1 peptide was applied intracellularly. Receptor agonist-induced inhibition of N-type as mediated by Galpha was also impaired by the loop 1 peptide but only when applied in combination with a C-terminal peptide. For P/Q-type channels, by contrast, the Galpha-mediated inhibition was diminished by application of a C-terminal peptide alone. Moreover, in vitro binding analysis for N- and P/Q-type channels revealed direct interaction of Galpha with C-terminal fusion proteins as well as direct interaction of Gbeta gamma with loop 1 fusion proteins. These findings define loop 1 of N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels as an interaction site for Gbeta gamma and the C termini for Galpha.

Gx/z is regulated by mu but not delta opioid receptors in the stimulation of the low Km GTPase activity in mouse periaqueductal grey matter

High affinity low K(m) GTPase activity was measured in membrane preparations of adult mouse mesencephalic periaqueductal grey matter (PAG). Opioids displaying selectivity towards mu- or delta-opioid receptors (OR) activated the enzyme in a concentration-dependent manner. Antibodies to mu-OR greatly impaired the potential of mu-agonists, [D-Ala2,N-MePhe4,Gly-ol5]-enkephalin (DAMGO) and morphine, to increase hydrolysis of GTP. The same antibodies had little effect on [D-Pen2,5]enkephalin (DPDPE) and [D-Ala2]deltorphin II, both agonists at delta-OR. Stimulation of GTPase by DPDPE and [D-Ala2]deltorphin II - but not by morphine or DAMGO - was diminished by antibodies to delta-OR. The blockade of G(i2)alpha subunits by specific antibodies impaired the activation of G alpha-related GTPase by all opioids. Antibodies in vitro, and oligodeoxynucleotides in vivo, prepared against Gx/z alpha subunits, reduced the release of Pi promoted by DAMGO and morphine. The impairment of Gx/z proteins also slightly reduced the effect of the delta2 agonist [D-Ala2]deltorphin II. At delta1 receptors, DPDPE fully expressed its activation of GTPase. These results indicate that in the PAG, mu-OR and delta-OR couple with Gi2 transducer proteins. Notably, mu-OR also regulates the pertussis toxin-insensitive G-protein Gx/z, an effect poorly exhibited by delta-OR in this tissue.

The intracellular loop between domains I and II of the B-type calcium channel confers aspects of G-protein sensitivity to the E-type calcium channel

Neuronal voltage-dependent calcium channels undergo inhibitory modulation by G-protein activation, generally involving both kinetic slowing and steady-state inhibition. We have shown previously that the beta-subunit of neuronal calcium channels plays an important role in this process, because when it is absent, greater receptor-mediated inhibition is observed (). We therefore hypothesized that the calcium channel beta-subunits normally may occlude G-protein-mediated inhibition. Calcium channel beta-subunits bind to the cytoplasmic loop between transmembrane domains I and II of the alpha1-subunits (). We have examined the hypothesis that this loop is involved in G-protein-mediated inhibition by making chimeras containing the I-II loop of alpha1B or alpha1A inserted into alpha1E (alpha1EBE and alpha1EAE, respectively). This strategy was adopted because alpha1B (the molecular counterpart of N-type channels) and, to a lesser extent, alpha1A (P/Q-type) are G-protein-modulated, whereas this has not been observed to any great extent for alpha1E. Although alpha1B, coexpressed with alpha2-delta and beta1b transiently expressed in COS-7 cells, showed both kinetic slowing and steady-state inhibition when recorded with GTPgammaS in the patch pipette, both of which were reversed with a depolarizing prepulse, the chimera alpha1EBE (and, to a smaller extent, alpha1EAE) showed only kinetic slowing in the presence of GTPgammaS, and this also was reversed by a depolarizing prepulse. These results indicate that the I-II loop may be the molecular substrate of kinetic slowing but that the steady-state inhibition shown by alpha1B may involve a separate site on this calcium channel.

G alpha(o) is necessary for muscarinic regulation of Ca2+ channels in mouse heart

Heterotrimeric G proteins, composed of G alpha and G betagamma subunits, transmit signals from cell surface receptors to cellular effector enzymes and ion channels. The G alpha(o) protein is the most abundant G alpha subtype in the nervous system, but it is also found in the heart. Its function is not completely known, although it is required for regulation of N-type Ca2+ channels in GH3 cells and also interacts with GAP43, a major protein in growth cones, suggesting a role in neuronal pathfinding. To analyze the function of G alpha(o), we have generated mice lacking both isoforms of G alpha(o) by homologous recombination. Surprisingly, the nervous system is grossly intact, despite the fact that G alpha(o) makes up 0.2-0.5% of brain particulate protein and 10% of the growth cone membrane. The G alpha(o)-/- mice do suffer tremors and occasional seizures, but there is no obvious histologic abnormality in the nervous system. In contrast, G alpha(o)-/- mice have a clear and specific defect in ion channel regulation in the heart. Normal muscarinic regulation of L-type calcium channels in ventricular myocytes is absent in the mutant mice. The L-type calcium channel responds normally to isoproterenol, but there is no evident muscarinic inhibition. Muscarinic regulation of atrial K+ channels is normal, as is the electrocardiogram. The levels of other G alpha subunits (G alpha(s), G alpha(q), and G alpha(i)) are unchanged in the hearts of G alpha(o)-/- mice, but the amount of G betagamma is decreased. Whichever subunit, G alpha(o) or G betagamma, carries the signal forward, these studies show that muscarinic inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channels requires coupling of the muscarinic receptor to G alpha(o). Other cardiac G alpha subunits cannot substitute.

Dynorphin A-mediated reduction in multiple calcium currents involves a G(o) alpha-subtype G protein in rat primary afferent neurons

We examined the effect of antisera directed at specific G-protein subtype(s) on dynorphin A (Dyn A)-mediated reduction of calcium currents in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Whole cell patch-clamp recordings were performed on acutely dissociated neurons. Dyn A (1 microM)-mediated decrease in calcium currents was inhibited > 90% by the preferential kappa-receptor antagonist norbinaltorphimine. Dyn A (300-1,000 nM)-mediated reduction in calcium currents was examined during intracellular administration of antisera directed against specific regions of G(o) alpha, G(i) 1 alpha/G(1) 2 alpha, and G(i) 3 alpha subunits. Intracellular dialysis with an antiserum specific for G(o) alpha for 20 min decreased calcium current inhibition by Dyn A (1 microM) in 13 of 15 neurons by an average of 75%. Dialysis with nonimmune serum did not affect Dyn A's action to reduce calcium currents. Intracellular dialysis with either anti-G(i) 1 alpha/G(i) 2 alpha or anti-G(i) 3 alpha antisera did not affect Dyn A-induced changes in calcium currents. In the presence of the N-type calcium channel antagonist omega-conotoxin GVIA, the P-type calcium channel antagonist omega-Aga IVA, and omega-Aga MVIIC applied subsequent to the other toxins, the effect of Dyn A to reduce calcium currents was inhibited by 52, 28, and 16%, respectively. The L channel antagonist nifedipine did not affect the ability to Dyn A to inhibit calcium currents. These results suggest that in rat DRG neurons coupling of kappa-opioid receptors to multiple transient, high-threshold calcium currents involves the G(o) alpha subclass of G proteins.

Dopamine-1 receptor G-protein coupling and the involvement of phospholipase A2 in dopamine-1 receptor mediated cellular signaling mechanisms in the proximal tubules of SHR

Dopamine-induced natriuretic response which results from the activation of tubular dopamine1 (DA1) receptors is diminished in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). This may be a result of alterations occurring at the receptor level and within the cellular signaling pathway which ultimately causes inhibition of Na+, K(+)-ATPase. There have been reports showing that DA1 receptor induced inhibition of Na+, K(+)-ATPase is abolished in SHR which is due to a decreased activation of PLC and PKC by dopamine. Of the mechanisms, adenylyl cyclase and phospholipase C are two known enzymes linked to DA1 receptors via G proteins. Furthermore, the involvement of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) has also been reported in this process. However, the site of defect in DA1 receptor signaling pathway in SHR is still not well understood. This report will (i) review the coupling of DA1 receptor with G proteins and their levels in Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and SHR and (ii) discuss studies dealing with the role of PLA2 in dopamine-induced inhibition of Na+, K(+)-ATPase in WKY rat and SHR kidneys. Fenoldopam, DA1 receptor selective agonist stimulated [35S]GTP gamma S binding in a concentration (10(-9)-10(-4) M)-dependent manner in WKY rats which was attenuated in SHR. Fenoldopam (10 microM)-induced stimulation of [35S]GTP gamma S binding was significantly reduced by a DA1 receptor selective antagonist, SCH 23390 suggesting the involvement of DA1 receptor. Furthermore, the specific antipeptides Gs alpha, and Gq/11 alpha significantly blocked fenoldopam-stimulation of [35S]GTP gamma S binding suggesting the coupling of DA1 receptor with both the G proteins. Western analysis revealed a significant decrease in Gq/11 alpha but no changes in Gs alpha in SHR compared to WKY rats. Dopamine inhibited Na+, K(+)-ATPase activity in a concentration (10(-9)-10(-5) M)-dependent manner in WKY rats while it failed to inhibit the enzyme activity in SHR. Dopamine (10 microM)-induced inhibition in Na+, K(+)-ATPase activity was significantly blocked by mepacrine (a PLA2 inhibitor) suggesting the involvement of PLA2 in dopamine-mediated inhibition of Na+, K(+)-ATPase. Arachidonic acid (AA), a PLA2 product, inhibited Na+, K(+)-ATPase in a concentration (1-100 microM)-dependent manner in WKY rats while the inhibition in SHR was significantly attenuated (IC50: 7.5 microM in WKY and 80 microM in SHR). Furthermore, lower concentration (1 microM) of AA stimulated the enzyme activity in SHR. This suggests a defect in the metabolism of AA in SHR. Proadifen (10 microM), an inhibitor of cytochrome P-450 monoxygenase (an arachidonic acid metabolizing enzyme) significantly blocked the inhibition produced by arachidonic acid in WKY rats and abolished the difference in arachidonic acid inhibition of Na+, K(+)-ATPase between WKY rats and SHR. These data suggest that (i) the reduced activation of G proteins following DA1 receptor stimulation, (ii) reduced amount of Gq/11 alpha and (iii) a defect in the AA metabolism may be responsible for the reduced dopaminergic inhibition of sodium pump activity and a diminished natriuretic response to dopamine in SHR.

Muscarinic mechanisms in nerve cells

The receptor subtype and transduction mechanisms involved in the regulation of various neuronal ionic currents are reviewed, with some recent observations on sympathetic neurons, hippocampal cell membranes and basal forebrain cells.

Inositol trisphosphate/Ca2+ as messengers of bradykinin B2 and muscarinic acetylcholine m1-m4 receptors in neuroblastoma-derived hybrid cells

Neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid NG 108-15 and neuroblastoma x fibroblast hybrid NL308 cells possess endogenous bradykinin B2 receptors and m4 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs), which couple to phospholipase C and adenylate cyclase, respectively. Four genetic subtypes of mAChRs differed in their effects when stimulated in NG108-15 and NL308 cells overexpressing mAChRs. Broadly speaking, the principal effects fell into two categories: the odd-numbered receptors (m1 and m3) activated phospholipase C and increased inositol trisphosphate/Ca2+, as bradykinin did, whereas the even-numbered receptors (m2 and m4) inhibited adenylate cyclase via a pertussis toxin (PTx)-sensitive G-protein in NG108-15 cells. But all four types of NL308 cells overexpressing each m1, m2, m3 and m4 receptor activated phospholipase C, while keeping the PTx-sensitivity in m2/m4, but not in m1/m3 receptors. Coupling to ion channel effectors showed a comparable dichotomy in NG108-15 cells, while cross-activation occurred in NL308 cells.

Mechanism of inhibition of calcium channels in rat nucleus tractus solitarius by neurotransmitters

1. High-threshold Ca2+ channel currents were measured every 15 s following a 200 ms voltage step from -80 mV to 0 mV in order to study the coupling mechanism between neurotransmitter receptors and Ca2+ channels in neurones acutely isolated from the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) of the rat. 2. Application of 30 microM baclofen (GABAB receptor agonist) caused 38.9 +/- 1.2% inhibition of the peak inward Ba2+ current (IBa2+) in most NTS cells tested (n = 85 of 88). Somatostatin, 300 nM, also reduced IBa2+ by 31.3 +/- 1.6% in 53 cells of 82 tested. 3. Activation of mu-opioid-, GABAB- or somatostatin-receptors inhibited both N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. 4. The inhibition of Ca2+ currents by DAMGo (mu-opioid receptor agonist), baclofen and somatostatin was reduced by treatment with pertussis toxin and partially relieved by application of a 50 ms conditioning prepulse to +80 mV. This suggests that a pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein was involved in the neurotransmitter-mediated action in the observed inhibition of Ca2+ currents. 5. Intracellular loading with an antiserum raised against the amino terminus of Go alpha (GC/2) markedly attenuated the somatostatin-induced inhibition, but did not block the DAMGO- and baclofen-induced inhibition. 6. These findings suggest at least two different pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein-mediated pathways are involved in receptor-induced inhibition of Ca2+ currents in the NTS.

Facilitation of Ca2+ current in excitable cells

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels are one of the main routes for the entry of Ca2+ into excitable cells. These channels are unique in cell-signalling terms in that they can transduce an electrical signal (membrane depolarization) via Ca2+ entry into a chemical signal, by virtue of the diverse range of intracellular Ca(2+)-dependent enzymes and processes. In a variety of cell types, currents through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels can be increased in amplitude by a number of means. Although the term facilitation was originally defined as an increase of Ca2+ current resulting from one or a train of prepulses to depolarizing voltages, there is a great deal of overlap between facilitation by this means and enhancement by other routes, such as phosphorylation.

Voltage-dependent calcium channel beta-subunits in combination with alpha 1 subunits, have a GTPase activating effect to promote the hydrolysis of GTP by G alpha o in rat frontal cortex

The dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channel agonist (-)-BayK 8644 was found to produce an enhancement of the intrinsic hydrolysis of GTP by Go in rat frontal cortex membranes. An anti-calcium channel beta-subunit antiserum abolished the (-)-BayK 8644-stimulated hydrolysis of GTP by Go and reduced the dihydropyridine binding capacity of the cortical membranes. A peptide which mimics the beta-subunit binding domain of the calcium channel complex, also attenuated (-)-BayK 8644 activation of GTPase. This study suggests that the calcium channel beta-subunit is the principal component of the channel complex involved in linking dihydropyridine agonist binding to enhanced hydrolysis of GTP by Go. This may be a mechanism by which calcium channels can normally act to limit the duration of a G-protein modulatory signal.

Inhibition of the interaction of G protein G(o) with calcium channels by the calcium channel beta-subunit in rat neurones

1. The beta-subunit has marked effects on the biophysical and pharmacological properties of voltage-dependent calcium channels. In the present study we examined the ability of the GABAB agonist (-) -baclofen to inhibit calcium channel currents in cultured rat dorsal root ganglion neurones following depletion of beta-subunit immunoreactivity, 108-116 h after microinjection of a beta-subunit antisense oligonucleotide. 2.We observed that, although the calcium channel current was markedly reduced in amplitude following beta-subunit depletion, the residual current (comprising both N- and L-type calcium channel currents) showed an enhanced response to application of (-) -baclofen. Therefore, it is possible that there is normally competition between activated G protein G(o) and the calcium channel beta-subunit for binding to the calcium channel alpha 1-subunit; and this competition shifts in favour of the binding of activated G(o) following depletion of the beta-subunit, resulting in increased inhibition. 3. This hypothesis is supported by evidence that an antibody against the calcium channel beta-subunit completely abolishes stimulation of the GTPase activity of G(o) by the dihydropyridine agonist S-(-) -Bay K 8644 in brain membranes. This stimulation of GTPase is thought to result from an interaction of G(o) alpha-subunit (G alpha o) with its calcium channel effector which may operate as a GTPase-activating protein. 4. These data suggest that the calcium channel beta-subunit when complexed with the beta 1-subunit normally inhibits its association with activated G(o). It may function as a GTPase-activating protein to reduce the ability of activated G(o) to associate with the calcium channel, and thus limit the efficacy of agonists such as (-) -baclofen.

Analysis of the relative interactions between the alpha 2C10 adrenoceptor and the guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins G(o)1 alpha and Gi 2 alpha following co-expression of these polypeptides in rat 1 fibroblasts

Rat 1 fibroblasts which had been transfected to express the human alpha 2C10 adrenoceptor (clone 1C) were further co-transfected with a plasmid containing the hygromycin-B-resistance gene and a plasmid containing a cDNA encoding the alpha-subunit of the rat pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein G(o)1. In clone 3 the receptor was expressed at some 2.2 pmol/mg of membrane protein, and G(o)1 alpha at approx. 100 pmol/mg of membrane protein. The interaction of these two polypeptides and that between the receptor and Gi2 alpha (endogenously expressed at some 50 pmol/mg of membrane protein) were studied. Agonist activation of G(o)1 alpha was observed in membranes of the alpha 2C10-adrenoceptor(+)-G(o)1 alpha+ cells (clone 3), but not in alpha 2C10-adrenoceptor(+)-G(o)alpha-cells (clone 1C), whereas similar agonist-dependent activation of Gi2 alpha was observed in both cell types. alpha 2C10-adrenoceptor activation of G(o)1 alpha and Gi2 alpha in clone-3 membranes was produced with similar agonist-dose-effect curves. These observations indicate that the receptor interacts with equivalent affinity with each of these G-proteins. Agonist-dependent cholera-toxin-catalysed [32P]ADP-ribosylation of G(o)1 alpha was terminated when the alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine was added subsequent to agonist-induced initiation of the reaction and release of GDP, demonstrating the conformational requirement for this reaction to be the ternary complex of agonist-occupied receptor and guanine-nucleotide-denuded G-protein.

Immunoprecipitation of opioid receptor-Go-protein complexes using specific GTP-binding-protein antisera

Solubilization of opioid receptors from rat cortical membranes that retained high-affinity guanine nucleotide-sensitive agonist binding was achieved using 10 mM CHAPS. We report the nature of the interactions of mu and delta opioid receptors with the guanine nucleotide-binding protein G(o) by immunoprecipitation of CHAPS extracts with selective G(o)alpha-subunit protein antisera. Antiserum IM1 raised against amino acids 22-35 of G(o)alpha selectively co-immunoprecipitated G(o)alpha-mu and G(o)alpha-delta opioid receptor complexes detected in the immunoprecipitates by specific [3H][D-Ala2,N-Me-Phe4,Gly5-ol]enkephalin and [3H][D-Ser2,Leu5,Thr6]enkephalin binding respectively. By contrast, antisera directed against the C-terminal decapeptide (OC2) and the N-terminal hexadecapeptide (ON1) of isoforms of G(o)alpha were unable to immunoprecipitate solubilized opioid receptor-G(o) complexes, although both were able to immunoprecipitate solubilized G(o)alpha and have been shown to reduce the affinity of [D-Ala2,D-Leu5]enkephalin for opioid receptors in rat cortical membranes [Georgoussi, Carr and Milligan (1993) Mol. Pharmacol. 44, 62-69]. These findings demonstrate that CHAPS-solubilized mu and delta opioid receptors from rat cortical membranes form stable complexes with one or more variants of G(o).

Transmitter-mediated inhibition of N-type calcium channels in sensory neurons involves multiple GTP-binding proteins and subunits

The modulation of voltage-activated Ca2+ channels by neurotransmitters and peptides is very likely a primary means of regulating Ca(2+)-dependent physiological functions such as neurosecretion, muscle contraction, and membrane excitability. In neurons, N-type Ca2+ channels (defined as omega-conotoxin GVIA-sensitive) are one prominent target for transmitter-mediated inhibition. This inhibition is widely thought to result from a shift in the voltage independence of channel gating. Recently, however, voltage-independent inhibition has also been described for N channels. As embryonic chick dorsal root ganglion neurons express both of these biophysically distinct modulatory pathways, we have utilized these cells to test the hypothesis that the voltage-dependent and -independent actions of transmitters are mediated by separate biochemical pathways. We have confirmed this hypothesis by demonstrating that the two modulatory mechanisms activated by a single transmitter involve not only different classes of G protein but also different G protein subunits.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate formation and ryanodine-sensitive oscillations of cytosolic free Ca2+ concentrations in neuroblastoma x fibroblast hybrid NL308 cells expressing m2 and m4 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes

Intracellular free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) were measured in subclones of NL308 neuroblastoma x fibroblast hybrid cells expressing each of the individual muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) subtypes m1, m2, m3 and m4. Application of 100 microM acetylcholine (ACh) increased [Ca2+]i in all four subclones. The increased [Ca2+]i levels were significantly higher in m1- and m3-transformed cells than those in m2- and m4-transformed cells. In more than 95% of m2- and m4-transformed cells, [Ca2+]i showed sinusoidal oscillations. ACh-induced increases in [Ca2+]i were not observed in cells treated with an intracellular Ca2+ chelator, 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA). Removal of extracellular Ca2+ with ethylene-glycol-bis-(beta- aminoethyl)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetate (EGTA) did not affect the initial [Ca2+]i increases, but reduced the late phases of delta [Ca2+]i in ml- and m3-transformed cells by 20-30%. Oscillations in m2- and m4-transformed cells persisted in EGTA solution (though sometimes slowed in frequency), suggesting that they were of intracellular origin. ACh-induced delta [Ca2+]i and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate formation was completely suppressed by pre-treatment with 50-100 ng ml-1 Pertussis toxin (PTX) for 12 h in m2- and m4-transformed cells, but not in m1- and m3-transformed cells. In all cells, extracellular application of caffeine and ryanodine, or intracellular application of cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cAD-PR) produced a rise in [Ca2+]i. ACh-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations were not observed in ryanodine-treated m2-transformed cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The G protein G13 mediates inhibition of voltage-dependent calcium current by bradykinin

In neuroblastoma-glioma hybrid cells, bradykinin has dual modulatory effects on ion channels: it activates a K+ current as well as inhibits the voltage-dependent Ca2+ current (ICa,V). Both of these actions are mediated by pertussis toxin-insensitive G proteins. Antibodies raised against the homologous Gq and G11 proteins suppress only the activation of the K+ current; this suggested that at least two distinct G protein pathways transduce diverse effects of this transmitter. Here, we show that the inhibition of ICa,V by bradykinin is suppressed selectively by intracellular application of antibodies specific for G13. This novel G protein may play a general role in the inhibition of ICa,V by pathways resistant to pertussis toxin.

Inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity by galanin in rat insulinoma cells is mediated by the G-protein Gi3

Galanin inhibits adenylate cyclase activity and insulin secretion and modulates ion channels in pancreatic beta-cells through pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein(s). Antibodies directed against the C-terminal region of specific G-protein alpha-subunits were used to determine which G-protein(s) couple galanin receptors to inhibition of adenylate cyclase in the rat insulinoma cell line RINm5F. Preincubation of membranes with EC antibody (anti-alpha i3) decreased the inhibition of forskolin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity by galanin (100 nM) by 45% compared with control IgG (P < 0.05) whereas preincubation with AS (anti-alpha i1, alpha i2) or GO (anti-alpha o) antibodies had no significant effect. To confirm these results, RINm5F cells were exposed intermittently over a 4-day period to phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides that were either sense or antisense to alpha i1, alpha i2, alpha i3 or alpha o. Oligodeoxynucleotides antisense to alpha i2, alpha i3 and alpha o specifically decreased the levels of the targeted alpha-subunit in membranes. alpha i1 was undetectable in these cells. Inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity by galanin was largely abolished in membranes from cells exposed to the oligodeoxynucleotide antisense to alpha i3, whereas all other oligodeoxynucleotides had no significant effect on this pathway. Indirect immunofluorescence and immunoblotting of specific membrane fractions with EC antibody show significant localization of alpha i3 to intracellular membrane compartments. These results suggest that Gi3 is the G protein that couples galanin receptors to inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity in RINm5F cells.

The amyloid precursor protein fragment His 657-Lys 676 inhibits noradrenaline- and enkephaline-induced suppression of voltage sensitive calcium currents in NG108-15 hybrid cells

We have investigated the effects of the C-terminal amyloid precursor protein fragment His 657-Lys 676 upon calcium currents in NG108-15 neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cells. The amyloid precursor protein fragment His 657-Lys 676 (1-10 microM) did not affect calcium currents per se, but clearly blocked the calcium current suppression mediated by both adrenergic alpha 2B- and opioid delta receptors in a concentration-dependent manner. The reverse amyloid precursor protein fragment Lys 676-His 657 and the shorter amyloid precursor protein fragment Gly 659-Lys 676 did not affect calcium current suppression by adrenergic alpha 2B- and opioid delta receptors. The similar interaction of C-terminal amyloid precursor protein with adrenergic alpha 2B- and opioid delta receptors suggest that the effect occurs downstream of the receptor, possibly via the GTP binding protein Go.

Muscarinic M-current inhibition via G alpha q/11 and alpha-adrenoceptor inhibition of Ca2+ current via G alpha o in rat sympathetic neurones

1. Microinjection of selective antibodies into superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurones has identified the G-protein alpha-subunits mediating muscarinic receptor inhibition of M-type K+ current (IK(M)) and alpha-adrenoceptor inhibition of Ca2+ current (ICa). 2. Antibodies specific for G alpha q/11, but not those for G alpha o, reduced M-current inhibition by the muscarinic agonist oxotremorine-M, whereas anti-G alpha o antibodies, but not anti-G alpha q/11 or anti-G alpha i1-3 antibodies, reduced calcium current inhibition by noradrenaline. 3. Immunoblots with specific anti-G-protein antibodies demonstrated the presence of both G alpha q and G alpha 11, while G alpha o1 (but virtually no G alpha o2) was present. 4. We conclude that M1 muscarinic receptor inhibition of IK(M) is transduced by G alpha q and/or G alpha 11, and that G alpha o transduces alpha-adrenoceptor inhibition of ICa.

Depression of high-threshold calcium currents by activation of human D2 (short) dopamine receptors expressed in differentiated NG108-15 cells

1. This study examined the regulation of calcium currents in differentiated NG108-15 cells that had been stably transfected with cDNA encoding the short isoform of the human D2 dopamine receptor. Whole cell calcium currents were recorded by nystatin-perforated patch clamp recording. 2. Transient low-threshold calcium currents elicited by depolarizations from -100 mV to -20 mV were reversibly depressed by NiCl2 (84 +/- 8% at 30 microM; n = 3) and by omega-agatoxin IVA (15 +/- 5%; 100 nM, n = 7). These currents were unaffected by hD2 receptor activation. 3. High-threshold calcium currents elicited by depolarizations from -80 mV to 0 mV were partly blocked by omega-conotoxin GVIA (67 +/- 6% at 100 nM, n = 4) and by the subsequent addition of the dihydropyridine, nisoldipine (94 +/- 3% at 1 microM). Consistent with the presence of at least two distinct types of high-threshold calcium channels, nisoldipine alone (38 +/- 15% at 1 microM, n = 6) did not preclude the inhibition caused by omega-conotoxin GVIA (69 +/- 13% at 100 nM, n = 4). The residual current was completely blocked by 100 microM CdCl2 (98.8 +/- 0.4%, n = 7). 4. In hD2-transfected cells, but not untransfected cells, high-threshold currents were depressed by quinpirole (30 +/- 4% at 100 nM; n = 15) with a pEC50 of 8.61 +/- 0.22 (n = 5), as well as by (-)-noradrenaline (28 +/- 5% at 1 microM, n = 9). Responses to both agonists were selectively antagonized by S-(-)sulpiride (100 nM) but not by the alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist, phentolamine (1O microM). The depression caused by (-)-noradrenaline was positively correlated with that of quinpirole for each cell(r2 = 0.91, slope = 0.99).5. hD2-receptor-mediated inhibition of high-threshold calcium currents was abolished by pretreatment of cells with omega-conotoxin GVIA (100 nM; n = 4). However, a component of the high-threshold current was reversibly depressed by omega-conotoxin GVIA (67% to 45% depression after 10 min wash). This current was also depressed by hD2 receptor activation (59 +/- 9% depression in 100 nM quinpirole, n = 3),and was completely blocked by nisoldipine (95 +/- 2% at 1 MicroM).6. These data demonstrate that activation of hD2(short) dopamine receptors can regulate both wconotoxinGVIA, and dihydropyridine-sensitive high-threshold calcium currents in neuroblastoma cells.Morever, the ability of human D2 dopamine receptors to regulate more than one type of calcium current supports the notion that these receptors have a diverse functional role in the central nervous system.