Lipid modulation of ion channels through specific binding sites

Steady-state and time-resolved fluorescent methodologies to characterize the conformational landscape of the selectivity filter of K+ channels

A variety of equilibrium and non-equilibrium methods have been used in a multidisciplinary approach to study the conformational landscape associated with the binding of different cations to the pore of potassium channels. These binding processes, and the conformational changes resulting therefrom, modulate the functional properties of such integral membrane properties, revealing these permeant and blocking cations as true effectors of such integral membrane proteins. KcsA, a prototypic K+ channel from Streptomyces lividans, has been extensively characterized in this regard. Here, we revise several fluorescence-based approaches to monitor cation binding under different experimental conditions in diluted samples, analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. These studies have contributed to explain the selectivity, conduction, and inactivation properties of K+ channels at the molecular level, together with the allosteric communication between the two gates that control the ion channel flux, and how they are modulated by lipids.

The mechanism of Gαq regulation of PLCβ3-catalyzed PIP2 hydrolysis

PLCβ (Phospholipase Cβ) enzymes cleave phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) producing IP3 and DAG (diacylglycerol). PIP2 modulates the function of many ion channels, while IP3 and DAG regulate intracellular Ca2+ levels and protein phosphorylation by protein kinase C, respectively. PLCβ enzymes are under the control of G protein coupled receptor signaling through direct interactions with G proteins Gβγ and Gαq and have been shown to be coincidence detectors for dual stimulation of Gαq and Gαi-coupled receptors. PLCβs are aqueous-soluble cytoplasmic enzymes but partition onto the membrane surface to access their lipid substrate, complicating their functional and structural characterization. Using newly developed methods, we recently showed that Gβγ activates PLCβ3 by recruiting it to the membrane. Using these same methods, here we show that Gαq increases the catalytic rate constant, kcat, of PLCβ3. Since stimulation of PLCβ3 by Gαq depends on an autoinhibitory element (the X-Y linker), we propose that Gαq produces partial relief of the X-Y linker autoinhibition through an allosteric mechanism. We also determined membrane-bound structures of the PLCβ3·Gαq and PLCβ3·Gβγ(2)·Gαq complexes, which show that these G proteins can bind simultaneously and independently of each other to regulate PLCβ3 activity. The structures rationalize a finding in the enzyme assay, that costimulation by both G proteins follows a product rule of each independent stimulus. We conclude that baseline activity of PLCβ3 is strongly suppressed, but the effect of G proteins, especially acting together, provides a robust stimulus upon G protein stimulation.

The mechanism of Gα q regulation of PLCβ3 -catalyzed PIP2 hydrolysis

PLCβ enzymes cleave PIP2 producing IP3 and DAG. PIP2 modulates the function of many ion channels, while IP3 and DAG regulate intracellular Ca 2+ levels and protein phosphorylation by protein kinase C, respectively. PLCβ enzymes are under the control of GPCR signaling through direct interactions with G proteins Gβγ and Gα q and have been shown to be coincidence detectors for dual stimulation of Gα q and G α i coupled receptors. PLCβs are aqueous-soluble cytoplasmic enzymes, but partition onto the membrane surface to access their lipid substrate, complicating their functional and structural characterization. Using newly developed methods, we recently showed that Gβγ activates PLCβ3 by recruiting it to the membrane. Using these same methods, here we show that Gα q increases the catalytic rate constant, k cat , of PLCβ3 . Since stimulation of PLCβ3 by Gα q depends on an autoinhibitory element (the X-Y linker), we propose that Gα q produces partial relief of the X-Y linker autoinhibition through an allosteric mechanism. We also determined membrane-bound structures of the PLCβ3-Gα q , and PLCβ3-Gβγ(2)-Gα q complexes, which show that these G proteins can bind simultaneously and independently of each other to regulate PLCβ3 activity. The structures rationalize a finding in the enzyme assay, that co-stimulation by both G proteins follows a product rule of each independent stimulus. We conclude that baseline activity of PLCβ3 is strongly suppressed, but the effect of G proteins, especially acting together, provides a robust stimulus upon G protein stimulation.

Significance Statement

For certain cellular signaling processes, the background activity of signaling enzymes must be minimal and stimulus-dependent activation robust. Nowhere is this truer than in signaling by PLCβ3 , whose activity regulates intracellular Ca 2+ , phosphorylation by Protein Kinase C, and the activity of numerous ion channels and membrane receptors. In this study we show how PLCβ3 enzymes are regulated by two kinds of G proteins, Gβγ and Gα q . Enzyme activity studies and structures on membranes show how these G proteins act by separate, independent mechanisms, leading to a product rule of co-stimulation when they act together. The findings explain how cells achieve robust stimulation of PLCβ3 in the setting of very low background activity, properties essential to cell health and survival.

Combining native mass spectrometry and lipidomics to uncover specific membrane protein-lipid interactions from natural lipid sources

While it is known that lipids play an essential role in regulating membrane protein structure and function, it remains challenging to identify specific protein-lipid interactions. Here, we present an innovative approach that combines native mass spectrometry (MS) and lipidomics to identify lipids retained by membrane proteins from natural lipid extracts. Our results reveal that the bacterial ammonia channel (AmtB) enriches specific cardiolipin (CDL) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) from natural headgroup extracts. When the two extracts are mixed, AmtB retains more species, wherein selectivity is tuned to bias headgroup selection. Using a series of natural headgroup extracts, we show TRAAK, a two-pore domain K+ channel (K2P), retains specific acyl chains that is independent of the headgroup. A brain polar lipid extract was then combined with the K2Ps, TRAAK and TREK2, to understand lipid specificity. More than a hundred lipids demonstrated affinity for each protein, and both channels were found to retain specific fatty acids and lysophospholipids known to stimulate channel activity, even after several column washes. Natural lipid extracts provide the unique opportunity to not only present natural lipid diversity to purified membrane proteins but also identify lipids that may be important for membrane protein structure and function.

Anionic Phospholipids Shift the Conformational Equilibrium of the Selectivity Filter in the KcsA Channel to the Conductive Conformation: Predicted Consequences on Inactivation

Here, we report an allosteric effect of an anionic phospholipid on a model K⁺ channel, KcsA. The anionic lipid in mixed detergent-lipid micelles specifically induces a change in the conformational equilibrium of the channel selectivity filter (SF) only when the channel inner gate is in the open state. Such change consists of increasing the affinity of the channel for K⁺, stabilizing a conductive-like form by maintaining a high ion occupancy in the SF. The process is highly specific in several aspects: First, lipid modifies the binding of K⁺, but not that of Na⁺, which remains unperturbed, ruling out a merely electrostatic phenomenon of cation attraction. Second, no lipid effects are observed when a zwitterionic lipid, instead of an anionic one, is present in the micelles. Lastly, the effects of the anionic lipid are only observed at pH 4.0, when the inner gate of KcsA is open. Moreover, the effect of the anionic lipid on K⁺ binding to the open channel closely emulates the K⁺ binding behaviour of the non-inactivating E71A and R64A mutant proteins. This suggests that the observed increase in K⁺ affinity caused by the bound anionic lipid should result in protecting the channel against inactivation.

Proteoliposomes reconstituted with human aquaporin-1 reveal novel single-ion-channel properties

Human aquaporin 1 (hAQP1) forms homotetrameric channels that facilitate fluxes of water and small solutes across cell membranes. In addition to water channel activity, hAQP1 displays non-selective monovalent cation-channel activity gated by intracellular cyclic GMP. Dual water and ion-channel activity of hAQP1, thought to regulate cell shape and volume, could offer a target for novel therapeutics relevant to controlling cancer cell invasiveness. This study probed properties of hAQP1 ion channels using proteoliposomes, which, unlike conventional cell-based systems such as Xenopus laevis oocytes, are relatively free of background ion channels. Histidine-tagged recombinant hAQP1 protein was synthesized and purified from the methylotrophic yeast, Pichia pastoris, and reconstituted into proteoliposomes for biophysical analyses. Osmotic water channel activity confirmed correct folding and channel assembly. Ion-channel activity of hAQP1-Myc-His6 was recorded by patch-clamp electrophysiology with excised patches. In symmetrical potassium, the hAQP1-Myc-His6 channels displayed coordinated gating, a single-channel conductance of approximately 75 pS, and multiple subconductance states. Applicability of this method for structure-function analyses was tested using hAQP1-Myc-His6 D48A/D185A channels modified by site-directed mutations of charged Asp residues estimated to be adjacent to the central ion-conducting pore of the tetramer. No differences in conductance were detected between mutant and wild-type constructs, suggesting the open-state conformation could differ substantially from expectations based on crystal structures. Nonetheless, the method pioneered here for AQP1 demonstrates feasibility for future work defining structure-function relationships, screening pharmacological inhibitors, and testing other classes in the broad family of aquaporins for previously undiscovered ion-conducting capabilities.

A Direct Interaction between Cyclodextrins and TASK Channels Decreases the Leak Current in Cerebellar Granule Neurons

Simple Summary

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides used to deplete cholesterol from cellular membranes. The effects of methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) on cellular functions originate principally from reductions in cholesterol levels. In this study, using immunocytochemistry, heterologous expression of K2P channels, and cholesterol-depleting maneuvers, we provide evidence of expression in cultured rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) of TWIK-1 (K2P1), TASK-1 (K2P3), TASK-3 (K2P9), and TRESK (K2P18) channels and their association with lipid rafts using the specific lipids raft markers. In addition, we show a direct blocking with MβCD of TASK-1 and TASK-3 channels as well as for the covalently concatenated heterodimer TASK-1/TASK-3.

Abstract

Two pore domain potassium channels (K2P) are strongly expressed in the nervous system (CNS), where they play a central role in excitability. These channels give rise to background K⁺ currents, also known as IK_SO (standing-outward potassium current). We detected the expression in primary cultured cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) of TWIK-1 (K2P1), TASK-1 (K2P3), TASK-3 (K2P9), and TRESK (K2P18) channels by immunocytochemistry and their association with lipid rafts using the specific lipids raft markers flotillin-2 and caveolin-1. At the functional level, methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD, 5 mM) reduced IK_SO currents by ~40% in CGN cells. To dissect out this effect, we heterologously expressed the human TWIK-1, TASK-1, TASK-3, and TRESK channels in HEK-293 cells. MβCD directly blocked TASK-1 and TASK-3 channels and the covalently concatenated heterodimer TASK-1/TASK-3 currents. Conversely, MβCD did not affect TWIK-1- and TRESK-mediated K+ currents. On the other hand, the cholesterol-depleting agent filipin III did not affect TASK-1/TASK-3 channels. Together, the results suggest that neuronal background K⁺ channels are associated to lipid raft environments whilst the functional activity is independent of the cholesterol membrane organization.

Diacylglycerols interact with the L2 lipidation site in TRPC3 to induce a sensitized channel state

Coordination of lipids within transient receptor potential canonical channels (TRPCs) is essential for their Ca2+ signaling function. Single particle cryo-EM studies identified two lipid interaction sites, designated L1 and L2, which are proposed to accommodate diacylglycerols (DAGs). To explore the role of L1 and L2 in TRPC3 function, we combined structure-guided mutagenesis and electrophysiological recording with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. MD simulations indicate rapid DAG accumulation within both L1 and L2 upon its availability within the plasma membrane. Electrophysiological experiments using a photoswitchable DAG-probe reveal potentiation of TRPC3 currents during repetitive activation by DAG. Importantly, initial DAG exposure generates a subsequently sensitized channel state that is associated with significantly faster activation kinetics. TRPC3 sensitization is specifically promoted by mutations within L2, with G652A exhibiting sensitization at very low levels of active DAG. We demonstrate the ability of TRPC3 to adopt a closed state conformation that features partial lipidation of L2 sites by DAG and enables fast activation of the channel by the phospholipase C-DAG pathway.

Fluorescence Studies of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor and Its Associated Lipid Milieu: The Influence of Erwin London's Methodological Approaches

Erwin London dedicated considerable effort to understanding lipid interactions with membrane-resident proteins and how these interactions shaped the formation and maintenance of lipid phases and domains. In this endeavor, he developed ad hoc techniques that greatly contributed to advancements in the field. We have employed and/or modified/extended some of his methodological approaches and applied them to investigate lipid interaction with the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) protein, the paradigm member of the superfamily of rapid pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGIC). Our experimental systems ranged from purified receptor protein reconstituted into synthetic lipid membranes having known effects on receptor function, to cellular systems subjected to modification of their lipid content, e.g., varying cholesterol levels. We have often employed fluorescence techniques, including fluorescence quenching of diphenylhexatriene (DPH) extrinsic fluorescence and of nAChR intrinsic fluorescence by nitroxide spin-labeled phospholipids, DPH anisotropy, excimer formation of pyrene-phosphatidylcholine, and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from the protein moiety to the extrinsic probes Laurdan, DPH, or pyrene-phospholipid to characterize various biophysical properties of lipid-receptor interactions. Some of these strategies are revisited in this review. Special attention is devoted to the anionic phospholipid phosphatidic acid (PA), which stabilizes the functional resting form of the nAChR. The receptor protein was shown to organize its PA-containing immediate microenvironment into microdomains with high lateral packing density and rigidity. PA and cholesterol appear to compete for the same binding sites on the nAChR protein.

Seasonal changes in membrane structure and excitability in retinal neurons of goldfish (Carassius auratus) under constant environmental conditions

Seasonal modifications in the structure of cellular membranes occur as an adaptive measure to withstand exposure to prolonged environmental change. Little is known about whether such changes may occur independently of external cues, such as photoperiod or temperature, or how they may impact the central nervous system. We compared membrane properties of neurons isolated from the retina of goldfish (Carassius auratus), an organism well-adapted to extreme environmental change, during the summer and winter months. Goldfish were maintained in a facility under constant environmental conditions throughout the year. Analysis of whole-retina phospholipid composition using mass spectrometry-based lipidomics revealed a two-fold increase in phosphatidylethanolamine species during the winter, suggesting an increase in cell membrane fluidity. Atomic force microscopy was used to produce localized, nanoscale-force deformation of neuronal membranes. Measurement of Young's modulus indicated increased membrane-cortical stiffness (or decreased elasticity) in neurons isolated during the winter. Voltage-clamp electrophysiology was used to assess physiological changes in neurons between seasons. Winter neurons displayed a hyperpolarized reversal potential (Vrev) and a significantly lower input resistance (Rin) compared to summer neurons. This was indicative of a decrease in membrane excitability during the winter. Subsequent measurement of intracellular Ca2+ activity using Fura-2 microspectrofluorometry confirmed a reduction in action potential activity, including duration and action potential profile, in neurons isolated during the winter. These studies demonstrate chemical and biophysical changes that occur in retinal neurons of goldfish throughout the year without exposure to seasonal cues, and suggest a novel mechanism of seasonal regulation of retinal activity.

Primary nutrient sensors in plants

Nutrients are scarce and valuable resources, so plants developed sophisticated mechanisms to optimize nutrient use efficiency. A crucial part of this is monitoring external and internal nutrient levels to adjust processes such as uptake, redistribution, and cellular compartmentation. Measurement of nutrient levels is carried out by primary sensors that typically involve either transceptors or transcription factors. Primary sensors are only now starting to be identified in plants for some nutrients. In particular, for nitrate, there is detailed insight concerning how the external nitrate status is sensed by members of the nitrate transporter 1 (NRT1) family. Potential sensors for other macronutrients such as potassium and sodium have also been identified recently, whereas for micronutrients such as zinc and iron, transcription factor type sensors have been reported. This review provides an overview that interprets and evaluates our current understanding of how plants sense macro and micronutrients in the rhizosphere and root symplast.

The Role of Lipids in CRAC Channel Function

The composition and dynamics of the lipid membrane define the physical properties of the bilayer and consequently affect the function of the incorporated membrane transporters, which also applies for the prominent Ca²⁺ release-activated Ca²⁺ ion channel (CRAC). This channel is activated by receptor-induced Ca²⁺ store depletion of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and consists of two transmembrane proteins, STIM1 and Orai1. STIM1 is anchored in the ER membrane and senses changes in the ER luminal Ca²⁺ concentration. Orai1 is the Ca²⁺-selective, pore-forming CRAC channel component located in the plasma membrane (PM). Ca²⁺ store-depletion of the ER triggers activation of STIM1 proteins, which subsequently leads to a conformational change and oligomerization of STIM1 and its coupling to as well as activation of Orai1 channels at the ER-PM contact sites. Although STIM1 and Orai1 are sufficient for CRAC channel activation, their efficient activation and deactivation is fine-tuned by a variety of lipids and lipid- and/or ER-PM junction-dependent accessory proteins. The underlying mechanisms for lipid-mediated CRAC channel modulation as well as the still open questions, are presented in this review.

Two-Dimensional Interfacial Exchange Diffusion Has the Potential to Augment Spatiotemporal Precision of Ca2+ Signaling

Nano-junctions between the endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasmic surfaces of the plasma membrane and other organelles shape the spatiotemporal features of biological Ca²⁺ signals. Herein, we propose that 2D Ca²⁺ exchange diffusion on the negatively charged phospholipid surface lining nano-junctions participates in guiding Ca²⁺ from its source (channel or carrier) to its target (transport protein or enzyme). Evidence provided by in vitro Ca²⁺ flux experiments using an artificial phospholipid membrane is presented in support of the above proposed concept, and results from stochastic simulations of Ca²⁺ trajectories within nano-junctions are discussed in order to substantiate its possible requirements. Finally, we analyze recent literature on Ca²⁺ lipid interactions, which suggests that 2D interfacial Ca²⁺ diffusion may represent an important mechanism of signal transduction in biological systems characterized by high phospholipid surface to aqueous volume ratios.

Aquaporin ion conductance properties defined by membrane environment, protein structure, and cell physiology

Aquaporins (AQPs) are multifunctional transmembrane channel proteins permeable to water and an expanding array of solutes. AQP-mediated ion channel activity was first observed when purified AQP0 from bovine lens was incorporated into lipid bilayers. Electrophysiological properties of ion-conducting AQPs since discovered in plants, invertebrates, and mammals have been assessed using native, reconstituted, and heterologously expressed channels. Accumulating evidence is defining amino acid residues that govern differential solute permeability through intrasubunit and central pores of AQP tetramers. Rings of charged and hydrophobic residues around pores influence AQP selectivity, and are candidates for further work to define motifs that distinguish ion conduction capability, versus strict water and glycerol permeability. Similarities between AQP ion channels thus far include large single channel conductances and long open times, but differences in ionic selectivity, permeability to divalent cations, and mechanisms of gating (e.g., by voltage, pH, and cyclic nucleotides) are unique to subtypes. Effects of lipid environments in modulating parameters such as single channel amplitude could explain in part the variations in AQP ion channel properties observed across preparations. Physiological roles of the ion-conducting AQP classes span diverse processes including regulation of cell motility, organellar pH, neural development, signaling, and nutrient acquisition. Advances in computational methods can generate testable predictions of AQP structure-function relationships, which combined with innovative high-throughput assays could revolutionize the field in defining essential properties of ion-conducting AQPs, discovering new AQP ion channels, and understanding the effects of AQP interactions with proteins, signaling cascades, and membrane lipids.

Investigation of Protein-Lipid Interactions Using Native Mass Spectrometry

Integral membrane proteins are embedded in biological membranes where various lipids modulate their structure and function. There exists a critical need to elucidate how these lipids participate in the physiological and pathological processes associated with the membrane protein dysfunction. Native mass spectrometry (MS), combined with ion mobility spectrometry (IM), is emerging as a powerful tool to probe membrane protein complexes and their interactions with ligands, lipids, and other small molecules. Unlike other biophysical approaches, native IM-MS can resolve individual ligand/lipid binding events. We have developed a novel method using native MS, coupled with a temperature-control apparatus, to determine the thermodynamic parameters of individual ligand or lipid binding events to proteins. This approach has been validated using several soluble protein-ligand systems wherein MS results are compared with those acquired from conventional biophysical techniques, such as isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Using these principles, it is possible to elucidate the thermodynamics of individual lipid binding to integral membrane proteins. Herein, we use the ammonia channel (AmtB) from Escherichia coli as a model membrane protein. Remarkably, distinct thermodynamic signatures for AmtB binding to lipids with different headgroups and acyl chain configurations are observed. Additionally, using a mutant form of AmtB that abolishes a specific lipid binding site, distinct changes have been discovered in the thermodynamic signatures compared with the wild-type, implying that these signatures can identify key residues involved in specific lipid binding and potentially differentiate between specific lipid binding sites. This chapter provides procedures and findings associated with temperature-controlled native MS as a novel approach to interrogate membrane proteins and their interactions with lipids and other molecules.

Lipid Head Group Adduction to Soluble Proteins Follows Gas-Phase Basicity Predictions: Dissociation Barriers and Charge Abstraction

Native mass spectrometry analysis of membrane proteins has yielded many useful insights in recent years with respect to membrane protein-lipid interactions, including identifying specific interactions and even measuring binding affinities based on observed abundances of lipid-bound ions after collision-induced dissociation (CID). However, the behavior of non-covalent complexes subjected to extensive CID can in principle be affected by numerous factors related to gas-phase chemistry, including gas-phase basicity (GB) and acidity, shared-proton bonds, and other factors. A recent report from our group showed that common lipids span a wide range of GB values. Notably, phosphatidylcholine (PC) and sphingomyelin lipids are more basic than arginine, suggesting they may strip charge upon dissociation in positive ion mode, while phosphoserine lipids are slightly less basic than arginine and may form especially strong shared-proton bonds. Here, we use CID to probe the strength of non-specific gas-phase interactions between lipid head groups and several soluble proteins, used to deliberately avoid possible physiological protein-lipid interactions. The strengths of the protein-head group interactions follow the trend predicted based solely on lipid and amino acid GBs: phosphoserine (PS) head group forms the strongest bonds with these proteins and out-competes the other head groups studied, while glycerophosphocholine (GPC) head groups form the weakest interactions and dissociate carrying away a positive charge. These results indicate that gas-phase thermochemistry can play an important role in determining which head groups remain bound to protein ions with native-like structures and charge states in positive ion mode upon extensive collisional activation.

The Transporter-Mediated Cellular Uptake and Efflux of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Biotechnology Products: How and Why Phospholipid Bilayer Transport Is Negligible in Real Biomembranes

Over the years, my colleagues and I have come to realise that the likelihood of pharmaceutical drugs being able to diffuse through whatever unhindered phospholipid bilayer may exist in intact biological membranes in vivo is vanishingly low. This is because (i) most real biomembranes are mostly protein, not lipid, (ii) unlike purely lipid bilayers that can form transient aqueous channels, the high concentrations of proteins serve to stop such activity, (iii) natural evolution long ago selected against transport methods that just let any undesirable products enter a cell, (iv) transporters have now been identified for all kinds of molecules (even water) that were once thought not to require them, (v) many experiments show a massive variation in the uptake of drugs between different cells, tissues, and organisms, that cannot be explained if lipid bilayer transport is significant or if efflux were the only differentiator, and (vi) many experiments that manipulate the expression level of individual transporters as an independent variable demonstrate their role in drug and nutrient uptake (including in cytotoxicity or adverse drug reactions). This makes such transporters valuable both as a means of targeting drugs (not least anti-infectives) to selected cells or tissues and also as drug targets. The same considerations apply to the exploitation of substrate uptake and product efflux transporters in biotechnology. We are also beginning to recognise that transporters are more promiscuous, and antiporter activity is much more widespread, than had been realised, and that such processes are adaptive (i.e., were selected by natural evolution). The purpose of the present review is to summarise the above, and to rehearse and update readers on recent developments. These developments lead us to retain and indeed to strengthen our contention that for transmembrane pharmaceutical drug transport "phospholipid bilayer transport is negligible".

Hypometabolic Responses to Chronic Hypoxia: A Potential Role for Membrane Lipids

Metabolic suppression is an essential strategy to cope with chronic hypoxia. This review examines the physiological processes used to survive in low oxygen environments. It proposes a novel mechanism-the remodeling of membrane lipids-to suppress ATP use and production. Temperature (homeoviscous adaptation), diet (natural doping in migrant birds) and body mass (membrane pacemaker of metabolism) have an impact on the lipid composition of membranes, which, in turn, modulates metabolic capacity. Vertebrate champions of hypoxia tolerance show extensive changes in membrane lipids upon in vivo exposure to low oxygen. These changes and those observed in hibernating mammals can promote the downregulation of ion pumps (major ATP consumers), ion channels, mitochondrial respiration capacity (state 3, proton leak, cytochrome c oxidase), and energy metabolism (β-oxidation and glycolysis). A common membrane signal regulating the joint inhibition of ion pumps and channels could be an exquisite way to preserve the balance between ATP supply and demand in hypometabolic states. Membrane remodeling together with more traditional mechanisms could work in concert to cause metabolic suppression.

Sodium Ions Do Not Stabilize the Selectivity Filter of a Potassium Channel

Ion conduction is an essential function for electrical activity in all organisms. The non-selective ion channel NaK was previously shown to adopt two stable conformations of the selectivity filter. Here, we present solid-state NMR measurements of NaK demonstrating a population shift between these conformations induced by changing the ions in the sample while the overall structure of NaK is not affected. We show that two K⁺-selective mutants (NaK2K and NaK2K-Y66F) suffer a complete loss of selectivity filter stability under Na⁺ conditions, but do not collapse into a defined structure. Widespread chemical shift perturbations are seen between the Na⁺ and K⁺ states of the K⁺-selective mutants in the region of the pore helix indicating structural changes. We conclude that the stronger link between the selectivity filter and the pore helix in the K⁺-selective mutants, compared to the non-selective wild-type NaK channel, reduces the ion-dependent conformational flexibility of the selectivity filter.

Coevolution of body size and metabolic rate in vertebrates: a life-history perspective

Despite many decades of research, the allometric scaling of metabolic rates (MRs) remains poorly understood. Here, we argue that scaling exponents of these allometries do not themselves mirror one universal law of nature but instead statistically approximate the non-linearity of the relationship between MR and body mass. This 'statistical' view must be replaced with the life-history perspective that 'allows' organisms to evolve myriad different life strategies with distinct physiological features. We posit that the hypoallometric allometry of MRs (mass scaling with an exponent smaller than 1) is an indirect outcome of the selective pressure of ecological mortality on allocation 'decisions' that divide resources among growth, reproduction, and the basic metabolic costs of repair and maintenance reflected in the standard or basal metabolic rate (SMR or BMR), which are customarily subjected to allometric analyses. Those 'decisions' form a wealth of life-history variation that can be defined based on the axis dictated by ecological mortality and the axis governed by the efficiency of energy use. We link this variation as well as hypoallometric scaling to the mechanistic determinants of MR, such as metabolically inert component proportions, internal organ relative size and activity, cell size and cell membrane composition, and muscle contributions to dramatic metabolic shifts between the resting and active states. The multitude of mechanisms determining MR leads us to conclude that the quest for a single-cause explanation of the mass scaling of MRs is futile. We argue that an explanation based on the theory of life-history evolution is the best way forward.

Effect of Heavy Ion 12C6+ Radiation on Lipid Constitution in the Rat Brain

Heavy ions refer to charged particles with a mass greater than four (i.e., alpha particles). The heavy ion irradiation used in radiotherapy or that astronauts suffer in space flight missions induces toxicity in normal tissue and leads to short-term and long-term damage in both the structure and function of the brain. However, the underlying molecular alterations caused by heavy ion radiation have yet to be completely elucidated. Herein, untargeted and targeted lipidomic profiling of the whole brain tissue and blood plasma 7 days after the administration of the 15 Gy (260 MeV, low linear energy (LET) = 13.9 KeV/μm) plateau irradiation of disposable ¹²C⁶⁺ heavy ions on the whole heads of rats was explored to study the lipid damage induced by heavy ion radiation in the rat brain using ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS) technology. Combined with multivariate variables and univariate data analysis methods, our results indicated that an orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS–DA) could clearly distinguish lipid metabolites between the irradiated and control groups. Through the combination of variable weight value (VIP), variation multiple (FC), and differential (p) analyses, the significant differential lipids diacylglycerols (DAGs) were screened out. Further quantitative targeted lipidomic analyses of these DAGs in the rat brain tissue and plasma supported the notion that DAG 47:1 could be used as a potential biomarker to study brain injury induced by heavy ion irradiation.

Proteomic analysis revealed T cell hyporesponsiveness induced by Haemonchus contortus excretory and secretory proteins

Haemonchus contortus has evolved highly integrated and sophisticated mechanisms to promote coexistence with hosts. The excretory-secretory (ES) products generated by this parasite contribute to the regulation of the host immune response to facilitate immune evasion and induce chronicity, but the proteins responsible for this process and the exact cellular mechanisms have yet to be defined. In this study, we identified 114 H. contortus ES proteins (HcESPs) interacting with host T cells and 15 T cell binding receptors via co-immunoprecipitation and shotgun liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Based on bioinformatics analysis, we demonstrated that HcESPs could inhibit T cell viability, induce cell apoptosis, suppress T cell proliferation and cause cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the stimulation of HcESPs exerted critical control effects on T cell cytokine production profiles, predominantly promoting the secretion of interleukin (IL)-10, IL-17A and transforming growth factor-β1 and inhibiting IL-2, IL-4 and interferon-γ production. Collectively, these findings may provide insights into the interaction between ES proteins and key host effector cells, enhancing our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying parasite immune evasion and providing new clues for novel vaccine development.

Modulation of Function, Structure and Clustering of K+ Channels by Lipids: Lessons Learnt from KcsA

KcsA, a prokaryote tetrameric potassium channel, was the first ion channel ever to be structurally solved at high resolution. This, along with the ease of its expression and purification, made KcsA an experimental system of choice to study structure–function relationships in ion channels. In fact, much of our current understanding on how the different channel families operate arises from earlier KcsA information. Being an integral membrane protein, KcsA is also an excellent model to study how lipid–protein and protein–protein interactions within membranes, modulate its activity and structure. In regard to the later, a variety of equilibrium and non-equilibrium methods have been used in a truly multidisciplinary effort to study the effects of lipids on the KcsA channel. Remarkably, both experimental and “in silico” data point to the relevance of specific lipid binding to two key arginine residues. These residues are at non-annular lipid binding sites on the protein and act as a common element to trigger many of the lipid effects on this channel. Thus, processes as different as the inactivation of channel currents or the assembly of clusters from individual KcsA channels, depend upon such lipid binding.

Mechanisms Underlying the Dual Effect of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Analogs on Kv7.1

Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) analogs represent a new class of potential anti-arrhythmic K_V7.1 and K_V7.1+KCNE1 channel activators. In this study, we describe dual independent activating effects of negatively charged PUFA analogs on K_V7.1 and K_V7.1+KCNE1 that are dependent on discrete channel motifs. PUFA analogs are critically dependent on K326 in S6 of K_V7.1 to increase the maximum conductance and critically dependent on specific S4 arginines in K_V7.1 to shift the voltage dependence of channel opening toward negative voltages. Our findings provide insights into how K_V7.1+KCNE1 activators may interact electrostatically both with the pore domain and the voltage-sensing domain to augment channel activity. We believe that the molecular understanding of how PUFA analogs induce dual independent activating effects is an important step toward the development of effective anti-arrhythmic drugs that target K_V7.1 channels.

Electrophysiological-mechanical coupling in the neuronal membrane and its role in ultrasound neuromodulation and general anaesthesia

The current understanding of the role of the cell membrane is in a state of flux. Recent experiments show that conventional models, considering only electrophysiological properties of a passive membrane, are incomplete. The neuronal membrane is an active structure with mechanical properties that modulate electrophysiology. Protein transport, lipid bilayer phase, membrane pressure and stiffness can all influence membrane capacitance and action potential propagation. A mounting body of evidence indicates that neuronal mechanics and electrophysiology are coupled, and together shape the membrane potential in tight coordination with other physical properties. In this review, we summarise recent updates concerning electrophysiological-mechanical coupling in neuronal function. In particular, we aim at making the link with two relevant yet often disconnected fields with strong clinical potential: the use of mechanical vibrations-ultrasound-to alter the electrophysiogical state of neurons, e.g., in neuromodulation, and the theories attempting to explain the action of general anaesthetics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: General anaesthetics revolutionised medical practice; now an apparently unrelated technique, ultrasound neuromodulation-aimed at controlling neuronal activity by means of ultrasound-is poised to achieve a similar level of impact. While both technologies are known to alter the electrophysiology of neurons, the way they achieve it is still largely unknown. In this review, we argue that in order to explain their mechanisms/effects, the neuronal membrane must be considered as a coupled mechano-electrophysiological system that consists of multiple physical processes occurring concurrently and collaboratively, as opposed to sequentially and independently. In this framework the behaviour of the cell membrane is not the result of stereotypical mechanisms in isolation but instead emerges from the integrative behaviour of a complexly coupled multiphysics system.

Modulation of the potassium channel KcsA by anionic phospholipids: Role of arginines at the non-annular lipid binding sites

The role of arginines R64 and R89 at non-annular lipid binding sites of KcsA, on the modulation of channel activity by anionic lipids has been investigated. In wild-type (WT) KcsA reconstituted into asolectin lipid membranes, addition of phosphatidic acid (PA) drastically reduces inactivation in macroscopic current recordings. Consistent to this, PA increases current amplitude, mean open time and open probability at the single channel level. Moreover, kinetic analysis reveals that addition of PA causes longer open channel lifetimes and decreased closing rate constants. Effects akin to those of PA on WT-KcsA are observed when R64 and/or R89 are mutated to alanine, regardless of the added anionic lipids. We interpret these results as a consequence of interactions between the arginines and the anionic PA bound to the non-annular sites. NMR data shows indeed that at least R64 is involved in binding PA. Moreover, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations predict that R64, R89 and surrounding residues such as T61, mediate persistent binding of PA to the non-annular sites. Channel inactivation depends on interactions within the inactivation triad (E71-D80-W67) behind the selectivity filter. Therefore, it is expected that such interactions are affected when PA binds the arginines at the non-annular sites. In support of this, MD simulations reveal that PA binding prevents interaction between R89 and D80, which seems critical to the effectiveness of the inactivation triad. This mechanism depends on the stability of the bound lipid, favoring anionic headgroups such as that of PA, which thrive on the positive charge of the arginines.

Emerging Diversity in Lipid-Protein Interactions

Membrane lipids interact with proteins in a variety of ways, ranging from providing a stable membrane environment for proteins to being embedded in to detailed roles in complicated and well-regulated protein functions. Experimental and computational advances are converging in a rapidly expanding research area of lipid-protein interactions. Experimentally, the database of high-resolution membrane protein structures is growing, as are capabilities to identify the complex lipid composition of different membranes, to probe the challenging time and length scales of lipid-protein interactions, and to link lipid-protein interactions to protein function in a variety of proteins. Computationally, more accurate membrane models and more powerful computers now enable a detailed look at lipid-protein interactions and increasing overlap with experimental observations for validation and joint interpretation of simulation and experiment. Here we review papers that use computational approaches to study detailed lipid-protein interactions, together with brief experimental and physiological contexts, aiming at comprehensive coverage of simulation papers in the last five years. Overall, a complex picture of lipid-protein interactions emerges, through a range of mechanisms including modulation of the physical properties of the lipid environment, detailed chemical interactions between lipids and proteins, and key functional roles of very specific lipids binding to well-defined binding sites on proteins. Computationally, despite important limitations, molecular dynamics simulations with current computer power and theoretical models are now in an excellent position to answer detailed questions about lipid-protein interactions.

The Membrane Proximal Domain of TRPV1 and TRPV2 Channels Mediates Protein⁻Protein Interactions and Lipid Binding In Vitro

Constitutive or regulated membrane protein trafficking is a key cell biology process. Transient receptor potential channels are somatosensory proteins in charge of detecting several physical and chemical stimuli, thus requiring fine vesicular trafficking. The membrane proximal or pre-S1 domain (MPD) is a highly conserved domain in transient receptor potential channels from the vanilloid (TRPV) subfamily. MPD shows traits corresponding to protein-protein and lipid-protein interactions, and protein regulatory regions. We have expressed MPD of TRPV1 and TRPV2 as green fluorescente protein (GFP)-fusion proteins to perform an in vitro biochemical and biophysical characterization. Pull-down experiments indicate that MPD recognizes and binds Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor Attachment Protein Receptors (SNARE). Synchrotron radiation scattering experiments show that this domain does not self-oligomerize. MPD interacts with phosphatidic acid (PA), a metabolite of the phospholipase D (PLD) pathway, in a specific manner as shown by lipid strips and Trp fluorescence quenching experiments. We show for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, the binding to PA of an N-terminus domain in TRPV channels. The presence of a PA binding domain in TRPV channels argues for putative PLD regulation. Findings in this study open new perspectives to understand the regulated and constitutive trafficking of TRPV channels exerted by protein-protein and lipid-protein interactions.

The MemProtMD database: a resource for membrane-embedded protein structures and their lipid interactions

Integral membrane proteins fulfil important roles in many crucial biological processes, including cell signalling, molecular transport and bioenergetic processes. Advancements in experimental techniques are revealing high resolution structures for an increasing number of membrane proteins. Yet, these structures are rarely resolved in complex with membrane lipids. In 2015, the MemProtMD pipeline was developed to allow the automated lipid bilayer assembly around new membrane protein structures, released from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). To make these data available to the scientific community, a web database (http://memprotmd.bioch.ox.ac.uk) has been developed. Simulations and the results of subsequent analysis can be viewed using a web browser, including interactive 3D visualizations of the assembled bilayer and 2D visualizations of lipid contact data and membrane protein topology. In addition, ensemble analyses are performed to detail conserved lipid interaction information across proteins, families and for the entire database of 3506 PDB entries. Proteins may be searched using keywords, PDB or Uniprot identifier, or browsed using classification systems, such as Pfam, Gene Ontology annotation, mpstruc or the Transporter Classification Database. All files required to run further molecular simulations of proteins in the database are provided.

The actions of volatile anesthetics: a new perspective

This article reviews recent work in applying neutron and X-ray scattering towards the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of volatile anesthetics. Experimental results on domain mixing in ternary lipid mixtures, and the influence of volatile anesthetics and hydrostatic pressure are placed in the contexts of ion-channel function and receptor trafficking at the postsynaptic density.

Lipid-Mediated Modulation of Intracellular Ion Channels and Redox State: Physiopathological Implications

Significance: Ion channels play an important role in the regulation of organelle function within the cell, as proven by increasing evidence pointing to a link between altered function of intracellular ion channels and different pathologies ranging from cancer to neurodegenerative diseases, ischemic damage, and lysosomal storage diseases. Recent Advances: A link between these pathologies and redox state as well as lipid homeostasis and ion channel function is in the focus of current research. Critical Issues: Ion channels are target of modulation by lipids and lipid messengers, although in most cases the mechanistic details have not been clarified yet. Ion channel function importantly impacts production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially in the case of mitochondria and lysosomes. ROS, in turn, may modulate the function of intracellular channels triggering thereby a feedback control under physiological conditions. If produced in excess, ROS can be harmful to lipids and may produce oxidized forms of these membrane constituents that ultimately affect ion channel function by triggering a "circulus vitiosus." Future Directions: The present review summarizes our current knowledge about the contribution of intracellular channels to oxidative stress and gives examples of how these channels are modulated by lipids and how this modulation may affect ROS production in ROS-related diseases. Future studies need to address the importance of the regulation of intracellular ion channels and related oxidative stress by lipids in various physiological and pathological contexts. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 28, 949-972.

Allostery revealed within lipid binding events to membrane proteins

Membrane proteins interact with a myriad of lipid species in the biological membrane, leading to a bewildering number of possible protein-lipid assemblies. Despite this inherent complexity, the identification of specific protein-lipid interactions and the crucial role of lipids in the folding, structure, and function of membrane proteins is emerging from an increasing number of reports. Fundamental questions remain, however, regarding the ability of specific lipid binding events to membrane proteins to alter remote binding sites for lipids of a different type, a property referred to as allostery [Monod J, Wyman J, Changeux JP (1965) J Mol Biol 12:88-118]. Here, we use native mass spectrometry to determine the allosteric nature of heterogeneous lipid binding events to membrane proteins. We monitored individual lipid binding events to the ammonia channel (AmtB) from Escherichia coli, enabling determination of their equilibrium binding constants. We found that different lipid pairs display a range of allosteric modulation. In particular, the binding of phosphatidylethanolamine and cardiolipin-like molecules to AmtB exhibited the largest degree of allosteric modulation, inspiring us to determine the cocrystal structure of AmtB in this lipid environment. The 2.45-Å resolution structure reveals a cardiolipin-like molecule bound to each subunit of the trimeric complex. Mutation of a single residue in AmtB abolishes the positive allosteric modulation observed for binding phosphatidylethanolamine and cardiolipin-like molecules. Our results demonstrate that specific lipid-protein interactions can act as allosteric modulators for the binding of different lipid types to integral membrane proteins.

Generation of High-Specificity Antibodies against Membrane Proteins Using DNA-Gold Micronanoplexes for Gene Gun Immunization

Membrane proteins are the molecular interface of the cell and its environs; however, studies of membrane proteins are highly technically challenging, mainly due to instability of the isolated protein. Towards the production of antibodies that recognize properly folded and stabilized forms of membrane protein antigen, we describe a DNA-based immunization method for mice that expresses the antigen in the membranes of dendritic cells, thus allowing direct presentation to the immune system. This genetic immunization approach employs a highly efficient method of biolistic delivery based on DNA-gold micronanoplexes, which are complexes of micron-sized gold particles that allow dermal penetration and nanometer-sized gold particles that provide a higher surface area for DNA binding than micron gold alone. In contrast to antibodies derived from immunizations with detergent-solubilized protein or with protein fragments, antibodies from genetic immunization are expected to have a high capacity for binding conformational epitopes and for modulating membrane protein activity. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Cocaine modifies brain lipidome in mice

Lipids are predominant components of the brain and key regulators for neural structure and function. The neuropsychopharmacological effect of cocaine has been intensively investigated; however, the impact of cocaine on brain lipid profiles is largely unknown. In this study, we used a LC-MS-based lipidomic approach to investigate the impact of cocaine on brain lipidome in two mouse models, cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP) and hyperlocomotor models and the lipidome was profoundly modified in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and striatum respectively. We comprehensively analyzed the lipids among 21 subclasses across 7 lipid classes and found that cocaine profoundly modified brain lipidome. Notably, the lipid metabolites significantly modified were sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids in the NAc, showing a decrease in ceramide and an increase in its up/downstream metabolites levels, and decrease lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphoethanolamine (LPE) and increase phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamines (PE) levels, respectively. Moreover, long and polyunsaturated fatty acid phospholipids were also markedly increased in the NAc. Our results show that cocaine can markedly modify brain lipidomic profiling. These findings reveal a link between the modified lipidome and psychopharmacological effect of cocaine, providing a new insight into the mechanism of cocaine addiction.

Cellular and Molecular Targets of Menthol Actions

Menthol belongs to monoterpene class of a structurally diverse group of phytochemicals found in plant-derived essential oils. Menthol is widely used in pharmaceuticals, confectionary, oral hygiene products, pesticides, cosmetics, and as a flavoring agent. In addition, menthol is known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. Recently, there has been renewed awareness in comprehending the biological and pharmacological effects of menthol. TRP channels have been demonstrated to mediate the cooling actions of menthol. There has been new evidence demonstrating that menthol can significantly influence the functional characteristics of a number of different kinds of ligand and voltage-gated ion channels, indicating that at least some of the biological and pharmacological effects of menthol can be mediated by alterations in cellular excitability. In this article, we examine the results of earlier studies on the actions of menthol with voltage and ligand-gated ion channels.

Characterization of Membrane Protein-Lipid Interactions by Mass Spectrometry Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry

Lipids in the biological membrane can modulate the structure and function of integral and peripheral membrane proteins. Distinguishing individual lipids that bind selectively to membrane protein complexes from an ensemble of lipid-bound species remains a daunting task. Recently, ion mobility mass spectrometry (IM-MS) has proven to be invaluable for interrogating the interactions between protein and individual lipids, where the complex undergoes collision induced unfolding followed by quantification of the unfolding pathway to assess the effect of these interactions. However, gas-phase unfolding experiments for membrane proteins are typically performed on the entire ensemble (apo and lipid bound species), raising uncertainty to the contribution of individual lipids and the species that are ejected in the unfolding process. Here, we describe the application of mass spectrometry ion mobility mass spectrometry (MS-IM-MS) for isolating ions corresponding to lipid-bound states of a model integral membrane protein, ammonia channel (AmtB) from Escherichia coli. Free of ensemble effects, MS-IM-MS reveals that bound lipids are ejected as neutral species; however, no correlation was found between the lipid-induced stabilization of complex and their equilibrium binding constants. In comparison to data obtained by IM-MS, there are surprisingly limited differences in stability measurements from IM-MS and MS-IM-MS. The approach described here to isolate ions of membrane protein complexes will be useful for other MS methods, such as surface induced dissociation or collision induced dissociation to determine the stoichiometry of hetero-oligomeric membrane protein complexes. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Specific stabilization of CFTR by phosphatidylserine

The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR, ABCC7) is a plasma membrane chloride ion channel in the ABC transporter superfamily. CFTR is a key target for cystic fibrosis drug development, and its structural elucidation would advance those efforts. However, the limited in vivo and in vitro stability of the protein, particularly its nucleotide binding domains, has made structural studies challenging. Here we demonstrate that phosphatidylserine uniquely stimulates and thermally stabilizes the ATP hydrolysis function of purified human CFTR. Among several lipids tested, the greatest stabilization was observed with brain phosphatidylserine, which shifted the Tm for ATPase activity from 22.7±0.8°C to 35.0±0.2°C in wild-type CFTR, and from 26.6±0.7°C to 42.1±0.2°C in a more stable mutant CFTR having deleted regulatory insertion and S492P/A534P/I539T mutations. When ATPase activity was measured at 37°C in the presence of brain phosphatidylserine, Vmax for wild-type CFTR was 240±60nmol/min/mg, a rate higher than previously reported and consistent with rates for other purified ABC transporters. The significant thermal stabilization of CFTR by phosphatidylserine may be advantageous in future structural and biophysical studies of CFTR.

A Pore Idea: the ion conduction pathway of TMEM16/ANO proteins is composed partly of lipid

Since their first descriptions, ion channels have been conceived as proteinaceous conduits that facilitate the passage of ionic cargo between segregated environments. This concept is reinforced by crystallographic structures of cation channels depicting ion conductance pathways completely lined by protein. Although lipids are sometimes present in fenestrations near the pore or may be involved in channel gating, there is little or no evidence that lipids inhabit the ion conduction pathway. Indeed, the presence of lipid acyl chains in the conductance pathway would curse the design of the channel's aqueous pore. Here, we make a speculative proposal that anion channels in the TMEM16/ANO superfamily have ion conductance pathways composed partly of lipids. Our reasoning is based on the idea that TMEM16 ion channels evolved from a kind of lipid transporter that scrambles lipids between leaflets of the membrane bilayer and the modeled structural similarity between TMEM16 lipid scramblases and TMEM16 anion channels. This novel view of the TMEM16 pore offers explanation for the biophysical and pharmacological oddness of TMEM16A. We build upon the recent X-ray structure of nhTMEM16 and develop models of both TMEM16 ion channels and lipid scramblases to bolster our proposal. It is our hope that this model of the TMEM16 pore will foster innovative investigation into TMEM16 function.

Metabolic functions of FABPs--mechanisms and therapeutic implications

Intracellular and extracellular interactions with proteins enables the functional and mechanistic diversity of lipids. Fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs) were originally described as intracellular proteins that can affect lipid fluxes, metabolism and signalling within cells. As the functions of this protein family have been further elucidated, it has become evident that they are critical mediators of metabolism and inflammatory processes, both locally and systemically, and therefore are potential therapeutic targets for immunometabolic diseases. In particular, genetic deficiency and small molecule-mediated inhibition of FABP4 (also known as aP2) and FABP5 can potently improve glucose homeostasis and reduce atherosclerosis in mouse models. Further research has shown that in addition to their intracellular roles, some FABPs are found outside the cells, and FABP4 undergoes regulated, vesicular secretion. The circulating form of FABP4 has crucial hormonal functions in systemic metabolism. In this Review we discuss the roles and regulation of both intracellular and extracellular FABP actions, highlighting new insights that might direct drug discovery efforts and opportunities for management of chronic metabolic diseases.

Phosphoinositide regulation of TRPV1 revisited

The heat- and capsaicin-sensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 ion channel (TRPV1) is regulated by plasma membrane phosphoinositides. The effects of these lipids on this channel have been controversial. Recent articles re-ignited the debate and also offered resolution to place some of the data in a coherent picture. This review summarizes the literature on this topic and provides a detailed and critical discussion on the experimental evidence for the various effects of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphayte [PI(4,5)P2 or PIP2] on TRPV1. We conclude that PI(4,5)P2 and potentially its precursor PI(4)P are positive cofactors for TRPV1, acting via direct interaction with the channel, and their depletion by Ca(2+)-induced activation of phospholipase Cδ isoforms (PLCδ) limits channel activity during capsaicin-induced desensitization. Other negatively charged lipids at higher concentrations can also support channel activity, which may explain some controversies in the literature. PI(4,5)P2 also partially inhibits channel activity in some experimental settings, and relief from this inhibition upon PLCβ activation may contribute to sensitization. The negative effect of PI(4,5)P2 is more controversial and its mechanism is less well understood. Other TRP channels from the TRPV and TRPC families may also undergo similar dual regulation by phosphoinositides, thus the complexity of TRPV1 regulation is not unique to this channel.

Channel function reconstitution and re-animation: a single-channel strategy in the postcrystal age

The most essential properties of ion channels for their physiologically relevant functions are ion-selective permeation and gating. Among the channel species, the potassium channel is primordial and the most ubiquitous in the biological world, and knowledge of this channel underlies the understanding of features of other ion channels. The strategy applied to studying channels changed dramatically after the crystal structure of the potassium channel was resolved. Given the abundant structural information available, we exploited the bacterial KcsA potassium channel as a simple model channel. In the postcrystal age, there are two effective frameworks with which to decipher the functional codes present in the channel structure, namely reconstitution and re-animation. Complex channel proteins are decomposed into essential functional components, and well-examined parts are rebuilt for integrating channel function in the membrane (reconstitution). Permeation and gating are dynamic operations, and one imagines the active channel by breathing life into the 'frozen' crystal (re-animation). Capturing the motion of channels at the single-molecule level is necessary to characterize the behaviour of functioning channels. Advanced techniques, including diffracted X-ray tracking, lipid bilayer methods and high-speed atomic force microscopy, have been used. Here, I present dynamic pictures of the KcsA potassium channel from the submolecular conformational changes to the supramolecular collective behaviour of channels in the membrane. These results form an integrated picture of the active channel and offer insights into the processes underlying the physiological function of the channel in the cell membrane.

Effects of monoterpenes on ion channels of excitable cells

Monoterpenes are a structurally diverse group of phytochemicals and a major constituent of plant-derived 'essential oils'. Monoterpenes such as menthol, carvacrol, and eugenol have been utilized for therapeutical purposes and food additives for centuries and have been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and analgesic actions. In recent years there has been increasing interest in understanding the pharmacological actions of these molecules. There is evidence indicating that monoterpenes can modulate the functional properties of several types of voltage and ligand-gated ion channels, suggesting that some of their pharmacological actions may be mediated by modulations of ion channel function. In this report, we review the literature concerning the interaction of monoterpenes with various ion channels.

Multidimensional mass spectrometry-based shotgun lipidomics analysis of vinyl ether diglycerides

Diglycerides play a central role in lipid metabolism and signaling in mammalian cells. Although diacylglycerol molecular species comprise the majority of cellular diglycerides that are commonly measured using a variety of approaches, identification of extremely low abundance vinyl ether diglycerides has remained challenging. In this work, representative molecular species from the three diglyceride subclasses (diacyl, vinyl ether, and alkyl ether diglycerides; hereafter referred to as diradylglycerols) were interrogated by mass spectrometric analysis. Product ion mass spectra of the synthesized diradylglycerols with varied chain lengths and degrees of unsaturation demonstrated diagnostic fragmentation patterns indicative of each subclass. Multidimensional mass spectrometry-based shotgun lipidomics (MDMS-SL) analysis of mouse brain and heart lipid extracts were performed using the identified informative signature product ions. Through an array of tandem mass spectrometric analyses utilizing the orthogonal characteristics of neutral loss scanning and precursor ion scanning, the differential fragmentation of each subclass was exploited for high-yield structural analyses. Although molecular ion mass spectra readily identified diacylglycerol molecular species directly from the hexane fractions of tissue extracts enriched in nonpolar lipids, molecular ion peaks corresponding to ether-linked diglycerides were not observable. The power of MDMS-SL utilizing the tandem mass spectrometric array analysis was demonstrated by identification and profiling of individual molecular species of vinyl ether diglycerides in mouse brain and heart from their undetectable molecular ion peaks during MS(1) analysis. Collectively, this technology enabled the identification and profiling of previously inaccessible vinyl ether diglyceride molecular species in mammalian tissues directly from extracts of biologic tissues.