1
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Huang Y, Shi Y, Wang M, Liu B, Chang X, Xiao X, Yu H, Cui X, Bai Y. Pannexin1 Channel-Mediated Inflammation in Acute Ischemic Stroke. Aging Dis 2024; 15:1296-1307. [PMID: 37196132 PMCID: PMC11081155 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that inflammation mediated by the pannexin1 channel contributes significantly to acute ischemic stroke. It is believed that the pannexin1 channel is key in initiating central system inflammation during the early stages of acute ischemic stroke. Moreover, the pannexin1 channel is involved in the inflammatory cascade to maintain the inflammation levels. Specifically, the interaction of pannexin1 channels with ATP-sensitive P2X7 purinoceptors or promotion of potassium efflux mediates the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, triggering the release of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1 and IL-18, exacerbating and sustaining inflammation of brain. Also, increased release of ATP induced by cerebrovascular injury activates pannexin1 in vascular endothelial cells. This signal directs peripheral leukocytes to migrate into ischemic brain tissue, leading to an expansion of the inflammatory zone. Intervention strategies targeting pannexin1 channels may greatly alleviate inflammation after acute ischemic stroke to improve this patient population's clinical outcomes. In this review, we sought to summarize relevant studies on inflammation mediated by the pannexin1 channel in acute ischemic stroke and discussed the possibility of using brain organoid-on-a-chip technology to screen miRNAs that exclusively target the pannexin1 channel to provide new therapeutic measures for targeted regulation of pannexin1 channel to reduce inflammation in acute ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yutong Shi
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Medical College, Institute of Microanalysis, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Bingyi Liu
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xueqin Chang
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xia Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Huihui Yu
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaodie Cui
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Graduate School, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Bai
- Department of Neurology, Dalian University Affiliated Xinhua Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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2
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Tseng CC, Woolley TE, Jiang TX, Wu P, Maini PK, Widelitz RB, Chuong CM. Gap junctions in Turing-type periodic feather pattern formation. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002636. [PMID: 38743770 PMCID: PMC11161087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Periodic patterning requires coordinated cell-cell interactions at the tissue level. Turing showed, using mathematical modeling, how spatial patterns could arise from the reactions of a diffusive activator-inhibitor pair in an initially homogeneous 2D field. Most activators and inhibitors studied in biological systems are proteins, and the roles of cell-cell interaction, ions, bioelectricity, etc. are only now being identified. Gap junctions (GJs) mediate direct exchanges of ions or small molecules between cells, enabling rapid long-distance communications in a cell collective. They are therefore good candidates for propagating nonprotein-based patterning signals that may act according to the Turing principles. Here, we explore the possible roles of GJs in Turing-type patterning using feather pattern formation as a model. We found 7 of the 12 investigated GJ isoforms are highly dynamically expressed in the developing chicken skin. In ovo functional perturbations of the GJ isoform, connexin 30, by siRNA and the dominant-negative mutant applied before placode development led to disrupted primary feather bud formation. Interestingly, inhibition of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) in the ex vivo skin explant culture allowed the sequential emergence of new feather buds at specific spatial locations relative to the existing primary buds. The results suggest that GJIC may facilitate the propagation of long-distance inhibitory signals. Thus, inhibition of GJs may stimulate Turing-type periodic feather pattern formation during chick skin development, and the removal of GJ activity would enable the emergence of new feather buds if the local environment were competent and the threshold to form buds was reached. We further propose Turing-based computational simulations that can predict the sequential appearance of these ectopic buds. Our models demonstrate how a Turing activator-inhibitor system can continue to generate patterns in the competent morphogenetic field when the level of intercellular communication at the tissue scale is modulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Chih Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | | | - Ting-Xin Jiang
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Philip K. Maini
- Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology, Mathematical Institute, Andrew Wiles Building, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Randall B. Widelitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Cheng-Ming Chuong
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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3
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Meng JH, Huang YB, Long J, Cai QC, Qiao X, Zhang QL, Zhang LD, Yan X, Jing R, Liu XS, Zhou SJ, Yuan YS, Yin-Chen Ma, Zhou LX, Peng NN, Li XC, Cai CH, Tang HM, Martins AF, Jiang JX, Kai-Jun Luo. Innexin hemichannel activation by Microplitis bicoloratus ecSOD monopolymer reduces ROS. iScience 2024; 27:109469. [PMID: 38577101 PMCID: PMC10993139 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular superoxide dismutases (ecSODs) secreted by Microplitis bicoloratus reduce the reactive oxygen species (ROS) stimulated by the Microplitis bicoloratus bracovirus. Here, we demonstrate that the bacterial transferase hexapeptide (hexapep) motif and bacterial-immunoglobulin-like (BIg-like) domain of ecSODs bind to the cell membrane and transiently open hemichannels, facilitating ROS reductions. RNAi-mediated ecSOD silencing in vivo elevated ROS in host hemocytes, impairing parasitoid larva development. In vitro, the ecSOD-monopolymer needed to be membrane bound to open hemichannels. Furthermore, the hexapep motif in the beta-sandwich of ecSOD49 and ecSOD58, and BIg-like domain in the signal peptides of ecSOD67 were required for cell membrane binding. Hexapep motif and BIg-like domain deletions induced ecSODs loss of adhesion and ROS reduction failure. The hexapep motif and BIg-like domain mediated ecSOD binding via upregulating innexins and stabilizing the opened hemichannels. Our findings reveal a mechanism through which ecSOD reduces ROS, which may aid in developing anti-redox therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Hui Meng
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Biao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Jin Long
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Qiu-Chen Cai
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Xin Qiao
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Qiong-Li Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Li-Dan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Xiang Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Rui Jing
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Shan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Sai-Jun Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Sheng Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yin-Chen Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Li-Xiang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Nan-Nan Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Cheng Li
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Hui Cai
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Mei Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - André F. Martins
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Kai-Jun Luo
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
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4
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Lucero CM, Navarro L, Barros-Osorio C, Cáceres-Conejeros P, Orellana JA, Gómez GI. Activation of Pannexin-1 channels causes cell dysfunction and damage in mesangial cells derived from angiotensin II-exposed mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1387234. [PMID: 38660621 PMCID: PMC11041381 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1387234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent health concern associated with various pathological conditions, including hypertensive nephropathy. Mesangial cells are crucial in maintaining glomerular function, yet their involvement in CKD pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Recent evidence indicates that overactivation of Pannexin-1 (Panx1) channels could contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases. Although Panx1 is expressed in the kidney, its contribution to the dysfunction of renal cells during pathological conditions remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Panx1 channels on mesangial cell function in the context of hypertensive nephropathy. Using an Ang II-infused mouse model and primary mesangial cell cultures, we demonstrated that in vivo exposure to Ang II sensitizes cultured mesangial cells to show increased alterations when they are subjected to subsequent in vitro exposure to Ang II. Particularly, mesangial cell cultures treated with Ang II showed elevated activity of Panx1 channels and increased release of ATP. The latter was associated with enhanced basal intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and increased ATP-mediated [Ca2+]i responses. These effects were accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation and reduced cell viability. Crucially, all the adverse impacts evoked by Ang II were prevented by the blockade of Panx1 channels, underscoring their critical role in mediating cellular dysfunction in mesangial cells. By elucidating the mechanisms by which Ang II negatively impacts mesangial cell function, this study provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of renal damage in hypertensive nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M. Lucero
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Laura Navarro
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristián Barros-Osorio
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Patricio Cáceres-Conejeros
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan A. Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo I. Gómez
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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5
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Tseng CC, Woolley TE, Jiang TX, Wu P, Maini PK, Widelitz RB, Chuong CM. Gap junctions in Turing-type periodic feather pattern formation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.15.537019. [PMID: 37090608 PMCID: PMC10120740 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.15.537019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Periodic patterning requires coordinated cell-cell interactions at the tissue level. Turing showed, using mathematical modeling, how spatial patterns could arise from the reactions of a diffusive activator-inhibitor pair in an initially homogenous two-dimensional field. Most activators and inhibitors studied in biological systems are proteins, and the roles of cell-cell interaction, ions, bioelectricity, etc. are only now being identified. Gap junctions (GJs) mediate direct exchanges of ions or small molecules between cells, enabling rapid long-distance communications in a cell collective. They are therefore good candidates for propagating non-protein-based patterning signals that may act according to the Turing principles. Here, we explore the possible roles of GJs in Turing-type patterning using feather pattern formation as a model. We found seven of the twelve investigated GJ isoforms are highly dynamically expressed in the developing chicken skin. In ovo functional perturbations of the GJ isoform, connexin 30, by siRNA and the dominant-negative mutant applied before placode development led to disrupted primary feather bud formation, including patches of smooth skin and buds of irregular sizes. Later, after the primary feather arrays were laid out, inhibition of gap junctional intercellular communication in the ex vivo skin explant culture allowed the emergence of new feather buds in temporal waves at specific spatial locations relative to the existing primary buds. The results suggest that gap junctional communication may facilitate the propagation of long-distance inhibitory signals. Thus, the removal of GJ activity would enable the emergence of new feather buds if the local environment is competent and the threshold to form buds is reached. We propose Turing-based computational simulations that can predict the appearance of these ectopic bud waves. Our models demonstrate how a Turing activator-inhibitor system can continue to generate patterns in the competent morphogenetic field when the level of intercellular communication at the tissue scale is modulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Chih Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, U.S.A
- Current address: Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, U.S.A
| | - Thomas E. Woolley
- School of Mathematics, Cardiff University, Senghennydd Road, Cardiff, CF24 4AG, U.K
| | - Ting-Xin Jiang
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, U.S.A
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, U.S.A
| | - Philip K. Maini
- Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology, Mathematical Institute, Andrew Wiles Building, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, U.K
| | - Randall B. Widelitz
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, U.S.A
| | - Cheng-Ming Chuong
- Department of Pathology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, U.S.A
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6
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Ortiz J, Bobkov YV, DeBiasse MB, Mitchell DG, Edgar A, Martindale MQ, Moss AG, Babonis LS, Ryan JF. Independent Innexin Radiation Shaped Signaling in Ctenophores. Mol Biol Evol 2023; 40:7026321. [PMID: 36740225 PMCID: PMC9949713 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Innexins facilitate cell-cell communication by forming gap junctions or nonjunctional hemichannels, which play important roles in metabolic, chemical, ionic, and electrical coupling. The lack of knowledge regarding the evolution and role of these channels in ctenophores (comb jellies), the likely sister group to the rest of animals, represents a substantial gap in our understanding of the evolution of intercellular communication in animals. Here, we identify and phylogenetically characterize the complete set of innexins of four ctenophores: Mnemiopsis leidyi, Hormiphora californensis, Pleurobrachia bachei, and Beroe ovata. Our phylogenetic analyses suggest that ctenophore innexins diversified independently from those of other animals and were established early in the emergence of ctenophores. We identified a four-innexin genomic cluster, which was present in the last common ancestor of these four species and has been largely maintained in these lineages. Evidence from correlated spatial and temporal gene expression of the M. leidyi innexin cluster suggests that this cluster has been maintained due to constraints related to gene regulation. We describe the basic electrophysiological properties of putative ctenophore hemichannels from muscle cells using intracellular recording techniques, showing substantial overlap with the properties of bilaterian innexin channels. Together, our results suggest that the last common ancestor of animals had gap junctional channels also capable of forming functional innexin hemichannels, and that innexin genes have independently evolved in major lineages throughout Metazoa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Melissa B DeBiasse
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St Augustine, FL, USA,School of Natural Sciences, University of California Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Dorothy G Mitchell
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St Augustine, FL, USA,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Allison Edgar
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St Augustine, FL, USA
| | - Mark Q Martindale
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St Augustine, FL, USA,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anthony G Moss
- Biological Sciences Department, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Leslie S Babonis
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, St Augustine, FL, USA,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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7
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Oliveira MC, Verswyvel H, Smits E, Cordeiro RM, Bogaerts A, Lin A. The pro- and anti-tumoral properties of gap junctions in cancer and their role in therapeutic strategies. Redox Biol 2022; 57:102503. [PMID: 36228438 PMCID: PMC9557036 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs), essential structures for cell-cell communication, are made of two hemichannels (commonly called connexons), one on each adjacent cell. Found in almost all cells, GJs play a pivotal role in many physiological and cellular processes, and have even been linked to the progression of diseases, such as cancer. Modulation of GJs is under investigation as a therapeutic strategy to kill tumor cells. Furthermore, GJs have also been studied for their key role in activating anti-cancer immunity and propagating radiation- and oxidative stress-induced cell death to neighboring cells, a process known as the bystander effect. While, gap junction (GJ)-based therapeutic strategies are being developed, one major challenge has been the paradoxical role of GJs in both tumor progression and suppression, based on GJ composition, cancer factors, and tumoral context. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of action, regulation, and the dual characteristics of GJs in cancer is critical for developing effective therapeutics. In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of GJs structure, function, and paradoxical pro- and anti-tumoral role in cancer. We also discuss the treatment strategies to target these GJs properties for anti-cancer responses, via modulation of GJ function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Oliveira
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-Antwerp (PLASMANT), Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Avenida dos Estados 5001, CEP 09210-580, Santo André, SP, Brazil.
| | - Hanne Verswyvel
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-Antwerp (PLASMANT), Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Evelien Smits
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Rodrigo M Cordeiro
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Avenida dos Estados 5001, CEP 09210-580, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Annemie Bogaerts
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-Antwerp (PLASMANT), Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Abraham Lin
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine-Antwerp (PLASMANT), Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610, Antwerp, Belgium
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8
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Gap junctions mediate discrete regulatory steps during fly spermatogenesis. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010417. [PMID: 36174062 PMCID: PMC9578636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gametogenesis requires coordinated signaling between germ cells and somatic cells. We previously showed that Gap junction (GJ)-mediated soma-germline communication is essential for fly spermatogenesis. Specifically, the GJ protein Innexin4/Zero population growth (Zpg) is necessary for somatic and germline stem cell maintenance and differentiation. It remains unknown how GJ-mediated signals regulate spermatogenesis or whether the function of these signals is restricted to the earliest stages of spermatogenesis. Here we carried out comprehensive structure/function analysis of Zpg using insights obtained from the protein structure of innexins to design mutations aimed at selectively perturbing different regulatory regions as well as the channel pore of Zpg. We identify the roles of various regulatory sites in Zpg in the assembly and maintenance of GJs at the plasma membrane. Moreover, mutations designed to selectively disrupt, based on size and charge, the passage of cargos through the Zpg channel pore, blocked different stages of spermatogenesis. Mutations were identified that progressed through early germline and soma development, but exhibited defects in entry to meiosis or sperm individualisation, resulting in reduced fertility or sterility. Our work shows that specific signals that pass through GJs regulate the transition between different stages of gametogenesis.
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9
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Stein W, DeMaegd ML, Benson AM, Roy RS, Vidal-Gadea AG. Combining Old and New Tricks: The Study of Genes, Neurons, and Behavior in Crayfish. Front Physiol 2022; 13:947598. [PMID: 35874546 PMCID: PMC9297122 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.947598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
For over a century the nervous system of decapod crustaceans has been a workhorse for the neurobiology community. Many fundamental discoveries including the identification of electrical and inhibitory synapses, lateral and pre-synaptic inhibition, and the Na+/K+-pump were made using lobsters, crabs, or crayfish. Key among many advantages of crustaceans for neurobiological research is the unique access to large, accessible, and identifiable neurons, and the many distinct and complex behaviors that can be observed in lab settings. Despite these advantages, recent decades have seen work on crustaceans hindered by the lack of molecular and genetic tools required for unveiling the cellular processes contributing to neurophysiology and behavior. In this perspective paper, we argue that the recently sequenced marbled crayfish, Procambarus virginalis, is suited to become a genetic model system for crustacean neuroscience. P. virginalis are parthenogenetic and produce genetically identical offspring, suggesting that germline transformation creates transgenic animal strains that are easy to maintain across generations. Like other decapod crustaceans, marbled crayfish possess large neurons in well-studied circuits such as the giant tail flip neurons and central pattern generating neurons in the stomatogastric ganglion. We provide initial data demonstrating that marbled crayfish neurons are accessible through standard physiological and molecular techniques, including single-cell electrophysiology, gene expression measurements, and RNA-interference. We discuss progress in CRISPR-mediated manipulations of the germline to knock-out target genes using the ‘Receptor-mediated ovary transduction of cargo’ (ReMOT) method. Finally, we consider the impact these approaches will have for neurophysiology research in decapod crustaceans and more broadly across invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Stein
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
- Stiftung Alfried Krupp Kolleg Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- *Correspondence: Wolfgang Stein, ; Andrés G. Vidal-Gadea,
| | - Margaret L. DeMaegd
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
- Center for Neural Sciences, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Abigail M. Benson
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
| | - Rajit S. Roy
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
| | - Andrés G. Vidal-Gadea
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Wolfgang Stein, ; Andrés G. Vidal-Gadea,
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10
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Omolaoye TS, Jalaleddine N, Cardona Maya WD, du Plessis SS. Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 and Male Infertility: Could Connexin and Pannexin Play a Role? Front Physiol 2022; 13:866675. [PMID: 35721552 PMCID: PMC9205395 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.866675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on male infertility has lately received significant attention. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in humans, has been shown to impose adverse effects on both the structural components and function of the testis, which potentially impact spermatogenesis. These adverse effects are partially explained by fever, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased immune response leading to impaired blood-testis barrier. It has been well established that efficient cellular communication via gap junctions or functional channels is required for tissue homeostasis. Connexins and pannexins are two protein families that mediate autocrine and paracrine signaling between the cells and the extracellular environment. These channel-forming proteins have been shown to play a role in coordinating cellular communication in the testis and epididymis. Despite their role in maintaining a proper male reproductive milieu, their function is disrupted under pathological conditions. The involvement of these channels has been well documented in several physiological and pathological conditions and their designated function in infectious diseases. However, their role in COVID-19 and their meaningful contribution to male infertility remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this review highlights the multivariate pathophysiological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 involvement in male reproduction. It also aims to shed light on the role of connexin and pannexin channels in disease progression, emphasizing their unexplored role and regulation of SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology. Finally, we hypothesize the possible involvement of connexins and pannexins in SARS-CoV-2 inducing male infertility to assist future research ideas targeting therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Walter D. Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Stefan S. du Plessis,
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11
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Pannexin-1 Activation by Phosphorylation Is Crucial for Platelet Aggregation and Thrombus Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095059. [PMID: 35563450 PMCID: PMC9100471 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pannexin-1 (PANX1) is a transmembrane protein that forms ion channels as hexamers on the plasma membrane. Electrophysiological studies prove that PANX1 has a high conductance for adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which plays an important role as a signal molecule in platelet activation. Recently, it was shown that PANX1 channels modulate platelet functions. To date, it remains unclear how PANX1 channels are activated and which signaling mechanisms are responsible for impaired hemostasis and thrombosis. Analysis of PANX1 phosphorylation at Tyr198 and Tyr308, and the impact on platelet activation and thrombus formation using genetically modified platelets or pharmacological inhibitors. Platelet activation via immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) coupled, G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCR) and thromboxane receptor (TP)-mediated signaling pathways led to increased PANX1 phosphorylation at Tyr198 and Tyr308. We identified the Src-GPVI signaling axes as the main pathway inducing PANX1 activation, while PKC and Akt play a minor role. PANX1 channels function as ATP release channels in platelets to support arterial thrombus formation. PANX1 activation is regulated by phosphorylation at Tyr198 and Tyr308 following platelet activation. These results suggest an important role of PANX1 in hemostasis and thrombosis by releasing extracellular ATP to support thrombus formation.
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12
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Welzel G, Schuster S. Connexins evolved after early chordates lost innexin diversity. eLife 2022; 11:74422. [PMID: 35042580 PMCID: PMC8769644 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels are formed by two unrelated protein families. Non-chordates use the primordial innexins, while chordates use connexins that superseded the gap junction function of innexins. Chordates retained innexin-homologs, but N-glycosylation prevents them from forming gap junctions. It is puzzling why chordates seem to exclusively use the new gap junction protein and why no chordates should exist that use non-glycosylated innexins to form gap junctions. Here, we identified glycosylation sites of 2388 innexins from 174 non-chordate and 276 chordate species. Among all chordates, we found not a single innexin without glycosylation sites. Surprisingly, the glycosylation motif is also widespread among non-chordate innexins indicating that glycosylated innexins are not a novelty of chordates. In addition, we discovered a loss of innexin diversity during early chordate evolution. Most importantly, lancelets, which lack connexins, exclusively possess only one highly conserved innexin with one glycosylation site. A bottleneck effect might thus explain why connexins have become the only protein used to form chordate gap junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Welzel
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Bayreuth
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13
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Dunton AD, Göpel T, Ho DH, Burggren W. Form and Function of the Vertebrate and Invertebrate Blood-Brain Barriers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212111. [PMID: 34829989 PMCID: PMC8618301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The need to protect neural tissue from toxins or other substances is as old as neural tissue itself. Early recognition of this need has led to more than a century of investigation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Many aspects of this important neuroprotective barrier have now been well established, including its cellular architecture and barrier and transport functions. Unsurprisingly, most research has had a human orientation, using mammalian and other animal models to develop translational research findings. However, cell layers forming a barrier between vascular spaces and neural tissues are found broadly throughout the invertebrates as well as in all vertebrates. Unfortunately, previous scenarios for the evolution of the BBB typically adopt a classic, now discredited 'scala naturae' approach, which inaccurately describes a putative evolutionary progression of the mammalian BBB from simple invertebrates to mammals. In fact, BBB-like structures have evolved independently numerous times, complicating simplistic views of the evolution of the BBB as a linear process. Here, we review BBBs in their various forms in both invertebrates and vertebrates, with an emphasis on the function, evolution, and conditional relevance of popular animal models such as the fruit fly and the zebrafish to mammalian BBB research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia D. Dunton
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Torben Göpel
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
| | - Dao H. Ho
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI 96859, USA;
| | - Warren Burggren
- Developmental Integrative Biology Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA; (T.G.); (W.B.)
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14
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Cárcaba L, García-Piqueras J, García-Mesa Y, Cobo R, García-Suárez O, Feito J, Vega JA. Human digital merkel cells display pannexin1 immunoreactivity. Ann Anat 2021; 239:151813. [PMID: 34384856 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2021.151813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Pannexins are channel proteins displaying functional similarities to gap junctions in vertebrates and are regarded as transmembrane ATP-releasing channels. A member of this family, denominate pannexin1, has been detected in the epidermis and cutaneous adnexal structures. Here we used immunohistochemistry to investigate whether human digital Merkel cells express this protein since ATP is postulated as a neurotransmitter in the Merkel cell-axon complexes low-threshold mecahoreceptors. Pannexin1 immunoreactivity was found in cytokeratine 20-, chromogranin A- and synaptophysin-positive cells placed at the basal layer of the epidermis. Cell displaying pannexin1 immunoreactivities were thus identified as Merkel cells and showed close contact with nerve profiles. Light pannexin1 immunoreactivity in dermal blood vessels was also verified. Present results demonstrate for the first time the expression of pannexin1 in human digital Merkel cells supporting the idea that ATP can be involved directly or indirectly in the mechanotransductional process at Merkel-axon complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Cárcaba
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge García-Piqueras
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Yolanda García-Mesa
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ramón Cobo
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Olivia García-Suárez
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge Feito
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain; Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía e Histología Humanas, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - José A Vega
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
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15
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Activation of Cx43 Hemichannels Induces the Generation of Ca 2+ Oscillations in White Adipocytes and Stimulates Lipolysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158095. [PMID: 34360859 PMCID: PMC8347185 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the mechanisms of Ca2+ oscillation generation upon activation of connexin-43 and regulation of the lipolysis/lipogenesis balance in white adipocytes through vesicular ATP release. With fluorescence microscopy it was revealed that a decrease in the concentration of extracellular calcium ([Ca2+]ex) results in two types of Ca2+ responses in white adipocytes: Ca2+ oscillations and transient Ca2+ signals. It was found that activation of the connexin half-channels is involved in the generation of Ca2+ oscillations, since the blockers of the connexin hemichannels-carbenoxolone, octanol, proadifen and Gap26-as well as Cx43 gene knockdown led to complete suppression of these signals. The activation of Cx43 in response to the reduction of [Ca2+]ex was confirmed by TIRF microscopy. It was shown that in response to the activation of Cx43, ATP-containing vesicles were released from the adipocytes. This process was suppressed by knockdown of the Cx43 gene and by bafilomycin A1, an inhibitor of vacuolar ATPase. At the level of intracellular signaling, the generation of Ca2+ oscillations in white adipocytes in response to a decrease in [Ca2+]ex occurred due to the mobilization of the Ca2+ ions from the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ pool of IP3R as a result of activation of the purinergic P2Y1 receptors and phosphoinositide signaling pathway. After activation of Cx43 and generation of the Ca2+ oscillations, changes in the expression levels of key genes and their encoding proteins involved in the regulation of lipolysis were observed in white adipocytes. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in the number of adipocytes containing lipid droplets, while inhibition or knockdown of Cx43 led to inhibition of lipolysis and accumulation of lipid droplets. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of Ca2+ oscillation generation in white adipocytes in response to a decrease in the concentration of Ca2+ ions in the external environment and established an interplay between periodic Ca2+ modes and the regulation of the lipolysis/lipogenesis balance.
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16
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O'Donnell BL, Penuela S. Pannexin 3 channels in health and disease. Purinergic Signal 2021; 17:577-589. [PMID: 34250568 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09805-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pannexin 3 (PANX3) is a member of the pannexin family of single membrane channel-forming glycoproteins. Originally thought to have a limited localization in cartilage, bone, and skin, PANX3 has now been detected in a variety of other tissues including skeletal muscle, mammary glands, the male reproductive tract, the cochlea, blood vessels, small intestines, teeth, and the vomeronasal organ. In many cell types of the musculoskeletal system, such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and odontoblasts, PANX3 has been shown to regulate the balance of proliferation and differentiation. PANX3 can be induced during progenitor cell differentiation, functioning at the cell surface as a conduit for ATP and/or in the endoplasmic reticulum as a calcium leak channel. Evidence in osteoblasts and monocytes also highlight a role for PANX3 in purinergic signalling through its function as an ATP release channel. PANX3 is critical in the development and ageing of bone and cartilage, with its levels temporally regulated in other tissues such as skeletal muscle, skin, and the cochlea. In diseases such as osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc degeneration, PANX3 can have either protective or detrimental roles depending on if the disease is age-related or injury-induced. This review will discuss PANX3 function in tissue growth and regeneration, its role in cellular differentiation, and how it becomes dysregulated in disease conditions such as obesity, Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, osteosarcoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer, where most of the findings on PANX3 function can be attributed to the characterization of Panx3 KO mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke L O'Donnell
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Silvia Penuela
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, Division of Experimental Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A 5C1, Canada.
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17
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Mersman BA, Jolly SN, Lin Z, Xu F. Gap Junction Coding Innexin in Lymnaea stagnalis: Sequence Analysis and Characterization in Tissues and the Central Nervous System. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:1. [PMID: 32158385 PMCID: PMC7052179 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Connections between neurons called synapses are the key components underlying all nervous system functions of animals and humans. However, important genetic information on the formation and plasticity of one type, the electrical (gap junction-mediated) synapse, is understudied in many invertebrates. In the present study, we set forth to identify and characterize the gap junction-encoding gene innexin in the central nervous system (CNS) of the mollusk pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis. With PCR, 3′ and 5′ RACE, and BLAST searches, we identified eight innexin genes in the L. stagnalis genome, named Lst Inx1–Lst Inx8. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the L. stagnalis innexin genes originated from a single copy in the common ancestor of molluskan species by multiple gene duplication events and have been maintained in L. stagnalis since they were generated. The paralogous innexin genes demonstrate distinct expression patterns among tissues. In addition, one paralog, Lst Inx1, exhibits heterogeneity in cells and ganglia, suggesting the occurrence of functional diversification after gene duplication. These results introduce possibilities to study an intriguing potential relationship between innexin paralog expression and cell-specific functional outputs such as heterogenic ability to form channels and exhibit synapse plasticity. The L. stagnalis CNS contains large neurons and functionally defined networks for behaviors; with the introduction of L. stagnalis in the gap junction gene field, we are providing novel opportunities to combine genetic research with direct investigations of functional outcomes at the cellular, synaptic, and behavioral levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A Mersman
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Sonia N Jolly
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Zhenguo Lin
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Fenglian Xu
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
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18
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Walker DS, Schafer WR. Distinct roles for innexin gap junctions and hemichannels in mechanosensation. eLife 2020; 9:e50597. [PMID: 31995033 PMCID: PMC7010410 DOI: 10.7554/elife.50597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensation is central to a wide range of functions, including tactile and pain perception, hearing, proprioception, and control of blood pressure, but identifying the molecules underlying mechanotransduction has proved challenging. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the avoidance response to gentle body touch is mediated by six touch receptor neurons (TRNs), and is dependent on MEC-4, a DEG/ENaC channel. We show that hemichannels containing the innexin protein UNC-7 are also essential for gentle touch in the TRNs, as well as harsh touch in both the TRNs and the PVD nociceptors. UNC-7 and MEC-4 do not colocalize, suggesting that their roles in mechanosensory transduction are independent. Heterologous expression of unc-7 in touch-insensitive chemosensory neurons confers ectopic touch sensitivity, indicating a specific role for UNC-7 hemichannels in mechanosensation. The unc-7 touch defect can be rescued by the homologous mouse gene Panx1 gene, thus, innexin/pannexin proteins may play broadly conserved roles in neuronal mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise S Walker
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - William R Schafer
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom
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19
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Stylianaki EA, Karpouzis A, Tripsianis G, Veletza S. Assessment of Gap Junction Protein Beta-2 rs3751385 Gene Polymorphism in Psoriasis Vulgaris. J Clin Med Res 2019; 11:642-650. [PMID: 31523338 PMCID: PMC6731047 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr3845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gap junction protein beta 2 (GJB2) upregulation in psoriasis transcriptome analysis as well as connexin 26 (Cx26, encoded by GJB2) expression upregulation in psoriatic plaques has already been substantiated. GJB2 rs72474224 and rs3751385 have been correlated with psoriasis vulgaris incidence in Chinese populations. Here we study the effect of rs3751385 in patients suffering from psoriasis vulgaris in a Caucasian Greek population at the prefecture of Thrace in Northern Greece. Methods One hundred and seventy-three (111 males and 62 females) psoriatic patients (108 were of early-onset psoriasis) and 171 matched controls were included in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes and genotyping was carried out by polymerase chain reaction-restriction-fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Results A statistically significant lower frequency of C/T genotype in late-onset male psoriasis vulgaris (P = 0.029) as well as of T allele in female early-onset psoriasis vulgaris (P = 0.049) were ascertained. Conclusions On condition that all other genetic or environmental factors remain stable, the existence and possible interaction between GJB2 rs3751385 C and T alleles in male psoriatic patients may be considered as protective gene component against late-onset psoriasis appearance, while presence of the T allele in female might block the histogenetic mechanisms of early-onset psoriasis lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elli-Anna Stylianaki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Anthony Karpouzis
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Gregory Tripsianis
- Department of Medical Statistics, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Stavroula Veletza
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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20
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Sánchez A, Castro C, Flores DL, Gutiérrez E, Baldi P. Gap Junction Channels of Innexins and Connexins: Relations and Computational Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2476. [PMID: 31109150 PMCID: PMC6566657 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction (GJ) channels in invertebrates have been used to understand cell-to-cell communication in vertebrates. GJs are a common form of intercellular communication channels which connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells. Dysregulation and structural alteration of the gap junction-mediated communication have been proven to be associated with a myriad of symptoms and tissue-specific pathologies. Animal models relying on the invertebrate nervous system have exposed a relationship between GJs and the formation of electrical synapses during embryogenesis and adulthood. The modulation of GJs as a therapeutic and clinical tool may eventually provide an alternative for treating tissue formation-related diseases and cell propagation. This review concerns the similarities between Hirudo medicinalis innexins and human connexins from nucleotide and protein sequence level perspectives. It also sets forth evidence of computational techniques applied to the study of proteins, sequences, and molecular dynamics. Furthermore, we propose machine learning techniques as a method that could be used to study protein structure, gap junction inhibition, metabolism, and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Sánchez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Ensenada, Baja California 22860, Mexico.
| | - Carlos Castro
- Facultad of Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Ensenada, Baja California 22860, Mexico.
| | - Dora-Luz Flores
- Facultad of Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Ensenada, Baja California 22860, Mexico.
| | - Everardo Gutiérrez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Ensenada, Baja California 22860, Mexico.
| | - Pierre Baldi
- Department of Computer Science, Institute for Genomics and Bioinformatics, and Center for Machine Learning and Intelligent Systems, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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21
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Güiza J, Barría I, Sáez JC, Vega JL. Innexins: Expression, Regulation, and Functions. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1414. [PMID: 30364195 PMCID: PMC6193117 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The innexin (Inx) proteins form gap junction channels and non-junctional channels (named hemichannels) in invertebrates. These channels participate in cellular communication playing a relevant role in several physiological processes. Pioneer studies conducted mainly in worms and flies have shown that innexins participate in embryo development and behavior. However, recent studies have elucidated new functions of innexins in Arthropoda, Nematoda, Annelida, and Cnidaria, such as immune response, and apoptosis. This review describes emerging data of possible new roles of innexins and summarizes the data available to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Güiza
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Iván Barría
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Juan C Sáez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - José L Vega
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Experimental, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
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Wang Y, Liu C, Du J, Huang J, Zhang S, Zhang R. The Microstructure, Proteomics and Crystallization of the Limpet Teeth. Proteomics 2018; 18:e1800194. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201800194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yadong Wang
- Protein Science Laboratory of the Ministry of Education; School of Life Sciences; Tsinghua University; Beijing 100084 China
| | - Chuang Liu
- Department of Biomaterials; Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces; Potsdam 14476 Germany
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine; Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University; Jiaxing Zhejiang Province 314006 China
| | - Jinzhe Du
- Protein Science Laboratory of the Ministry of Education; School of Life Sciences; Tsinghua University; Beijing 100084 China
| | - Jingliang Huang
- Protein Science Laboratory of the Ministry of Education; School of Life Sciences; Tsinghua University; Beijing 100084 China
| | - Shuce Zhang
- Department of Chemistry; University of Alberta; Edmonton AB T6G2G2 Canada
| | - Rongqing Zhang
- Protein Science Laboratory of the Ministry of Education; School of Life Sciences; Tsinghua University; Beijing 100084 China
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine; Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University; Jiaxing Zhejiang Province 314006 China
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23
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Synchronized roles of pannexin and connexin in nasal mucosal epithelia. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 275:1657-1661. [PMID: 29574598 PMCID: PMC5951895 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-018-4947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nasal mucosal epithelial cells express connexins, the prototypical gap junction proteins, and pannexins, a new family of channel proteins homologous to the invertebrate gap junction proteins. The physiological and pathophysiological roles of these transmembrane proteins in nasal mucosa are largely still unknown. PURPOSE Pannexins participate in ATP release into the extracellular space in various tissues, and ATP plays important roles in mucociliary clearance, especially by regulating ciliary beat activity. Therefore, we focused on the functional relationship between connexins, pannexin-1, ATP release, and mucociliary clearance in nasal epithelia. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Connexins participate in the generation of intercellular calcium waves, in which calcium-mediated signaling responses spread to contiguous cells through the gap junction formed by connexins to transmit calcium signaling throughout the airway epithelium. Pannexins in the nasal mucosa may contribute to not only ciliary beat modulation via ATP release, but also regulation of mucus blanket components via H2O efflux. The synchronized roles of pannexin and connexin may provide a new insight into effective mucociliary clearance systems in nasal mucosa.
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24
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Galinsky R, Davidson JO, Dean JM, Green CR, Bennet L, Gunn AJ. Glia and hemichannels: key mediators of perinatal encephalopathy. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:181-189. [PMID: 29557357 PMCID: PMC5879879 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.226378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal encephalopathy remains a major cause of disability, such as cerebral palsy. Therapeutic hypothermia is now well established to partially reduce risk of disability in late preterm/term infants. However, new and complementary therapeutic targets are needed to further improve outcomes. There is increasing evidence that glia play a key role in neural damage after hypoxia-ischemia and infection/inflammation. In this review, we discuss the role of astrocytic gap junction (connexin) hemichannels in the spread of neural injury after hypoxia-ischemia and/or infection/inflammation. Potential mechanisms of hemichannel mediated injury likely involve impaired intracellular calcium handling, loss of blood-brain barrier integrity and release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) resulting in over-activation of purinergic receptors. We propose the hypothesis that inflammation-induced opening of connexin hemichannels is a key regulating event that initiates a vicious cycle of excessive ATP release, which in turn propagates activation of purinergic receptors on microglia and astrocytes. This suggests that developing new neuroprotective strategies for preterm infants will benefit from a detailed understanding of glial and connexin hemichannel responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Galinsky
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne O Davidson
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Justin M Dean
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Colin R Green
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Laura Bennet
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alistair J Gunn
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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25
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Chiu YH, Schappe MS, Desai BN, Bayliss DA. Revisiting multimodal activation and channel properties of Pannexin 1. J Gen Physiol 2017; 150:19-39. [PMID: 29233884 PMCID: PMC5749114 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201711888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pannexin 1 (Panx1) forms plasma membrane ion channels that are widely expressed throughout the body. Panx1 activation results in the release of nucleotides such as adenosine triphosphate and uridine triphosphate. Thus, these channels have been implicated in diverse physiological and pathological functions associated with purinergic signaling, such as apoptotic cell clearance, blood pressure regulation, neuropathic pain, and excitotoxicity. In light of this, substantial attention has been directed to understanding the mechanisms that regulate Panx1 channel expression and activation. Here we review accumulated evidence for the various activation mechanisms described for Panx1 channels and, where possible, the unitary channel properties associated with those forms of activation. We also emphasize current limitations in studying Panx1 channel function and propose potential directions to clarify the exciting and expanding roles of Panx1 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hsin Chiu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Michael S Schappe
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Bimal N Desai
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
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26
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Umrani MR, Joglekar MV, Somerville Glover E, Wong W, Hardikar AA. Connexins and microRNAs: Interlinked players in regulating islet function? Islets 2017; 9:99-108. [PMID: 28686518 PMCID: PMC5624287 DOI: 10.1080/19382014.2017.1331192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic β-cells are connected to neighboring endocrine cells through the adherin proteins and gap junctions. Connexin 36 (Cx36) is one of the most well-studied and abundantly expressed gap-junction proteins within rodent islets, which is important in coordinated insulin secretion. The expression of connexins is regulated at various levels and by several mechanisms; one of which is via microRNAs. In past 2 decades, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key molecules in developmental, physiologic and pathological processes. However, very few studies have demonstrated miRNA-mediated regulation of connexins. Even though there are no reports yet on miRNAs and Cx36; we envisage that considering the important role of connexins and microRNAs in insulin secretion, there would be common pathways interlinking these biomolecules. Here, we discuss the current literature on connexins and miRNAs specifically with reference to islet function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malati R. Umrani
- National centre for cell science, Ganeshkhind, Pune University Campus, Pune, India
- Diabetes and Islet Biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mugdha V. Joglekar
- Diabetes and Islet Biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ella Somerville Glover
- Diabetes and Islet Biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Wilson Wong
- Diabetes and Islet Biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anandwardhan A. Hardikar
- Diabetes and Islet Biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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27
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Skerrett IM, Williams JB. A structural and functional comparison of gap junction channels composed of connexins and innexins. Dev Neurobiol 2017; 77:522-547. [PMID: 27582044 PMCID: PMC5412853 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Methods such as electron microscopy and electrophysiology led to the understanding that gap junctions were dense arrays of channels connecting the intracellular environments within almost all animal tissues. The characteristics of gap junctions were remarkably similar in preparations from phylogenetically diverse animals such as cnidarians and chordates. Although few studies directly compared them, minor differences were noted between gap junctions of vertebrates and invertebrates. For instance, a slightly wider gap was noted between cells of invertebrates and the spacing between invertebrate channels was generally greater. Connexins were identified as the structural component of vertebrate junctions in the 1980s and innexins as the structural component of pre-chordate junctions in the 1990s. Despite a lack of similarity in gene sequence, connexins and innexins are remarkably similar. Innexins and connexins have the same membrane topology and form intercellular channels that play a variety of tissue- and temporally specific roles. Both protein types oligomerize to form large aqueous channels that allow the passage of ions and small metabolites and are regulated by factors such as pH, calcium, and voltage. Much more is currently known about the structure, function, and structure-function relationships of connexins. However, the innexin field is expanding. Greater knowledge of innexin channels will permit more detailed comparisons with their connexin-based counterparts, and provide insight into the ubiquitous yet specific roles of gap junctions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 522-547, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Martha Skerrett
- Biology Department, SUNY Buffalo State, 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, New York, 14222
| | - Jamal B Williams
- Biology Department, SUNY Buffalo State, 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, New York, 14222
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28
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Baker MW, Macagno ER. Gap junction proteins and the wiring (Rewiring) of neuronal circuits. Dev Neurobiol 2017; 77:575-586. [PMID: 27512961 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The unique morphology and pattern of synaptic connections made by a neuron during development arise in part by an extended period of growth in which cell-cell interactions help to sculpt the arbor into its final shape, size, and participation in different synaptic networks. Recent experiments highlight a guiding role played by gap junction proteins in controlling this process. Ectopic and overexpression studies in invertebrates have revealed that the selective expression of distinct gap junction genes in neurons and glial cells is sufficient to establish selective new connections in the central nervous systems of the leech (Firme et al. [2012]: J Neurosci 32:14265-14270), the nematode (Rabinowitch et al. [2014]: Nat Commun 5:4442), and the fruit fly (Pézier et al., 2016: PLoS One 11:e0152211). We present here an overview of this work and suggest that gap junction proteins, in addition to their synaptic/communicative functions, have an instructive role as recognition and adhesion factors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 575-586, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Baker
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, 92093
| | - Eduardo R Macagno
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, 92093
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29
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Ohbuchi T, Do BH, Koizumi H, Takeuchi S, Ueta Y, Suzuki H. Possible contribution of pannexin-1 to capsaicin-induced ATP release in rat nasal columnar epithelial cells. Channels (Austin) 2017; 11:273-280. [PMID: 28631948 PMCID: PMC5555260 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2017.1293209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current evidence indicates that transient receptor potential (TRP) channel activity involves a relationship between opening of pannexin-1 and release of ATP into the extracellular space. We examined the effects of agonists of thermosensitive TRP channels (TRPM8, TRPA1, TRPV1, and TRPV2) on ATP release from rat nasal mucosa, and measured ciliary beat frequency (CBF) using digital high-speed video imaging. Single-cell patch clamping from dissociated rat nasal columnar epithelial cells was performed to confirm the relationship between pannexin-1 and TRP. We demonstrated that ATP release and CBF were significantly potentiated by the heat-sensitive TRPV1 agonist capsaicin (10 μM), but not by other TRP agonists. Capsaicin-induced ATP release and CBF increase were significantly inhibited by the pannexin-1 blockers carbenoxolone (10 μM) and probenecid (300 μM). In addition, the voltage step-evoked currents in the presence of capsaicin were inhibited by the pannexin-1 blockers in single-cell patch clamping. Our results suggest the participation of TRPV1 and pannexin-1 in the physiologic functions of rat nasal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toyoaki Ohbuchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan,CONTACT Toyoaki Ohbuchi Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1–1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan
| | - Ba Hung Do
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hiroki Koizumi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Shoko Takeuchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Yoichi Ueta
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hideaki Suzuki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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30
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Characterization of the Tetraspan Junctional Complex (4JC) superfamily. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1859:402-414. [PMID: 27916633 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2016.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Connexins or innexins form gap junctions, while claudins and occludins form tight junctions. In this study, statistical data, derived using novel software, indicate that these four junctional protein families and eleven other families of channel and channel auxiliary proteins are related by common descent and comprise the Tetraspan (4 TMS) Junctional Complex (4JC) Superfamily. These proteins all share similar 4 transmembrane α-helical (TMS) topologies. Evidence is presented that they arose via an intragenic duplication event, whereby a 2 TMS-encoding genetic element duplicated tandemly to give 4 TMS proteins. In cases where high resolution structural data were available, the conclusion of homology was supported by conducting structural comparisons. Phylogenetic trees reveal the probable relationships of these 15 families to each other. Long homologues containing fusions to other recognizable domains as well as internally duplicated or fused domains are reported. Large "fusion" proteins containing 4JC domains proved to fall predominantly into family-specific patterns as follows: (1) the 4JC domain was N-terminal; (2) the 4JC domain was C-terminal; (3) the 4JC domain was duplicated or occasionally triplicated and (4) mixed fusion types were present. Our observations provide insight into the evolutionary origins and subfunctions of these proteins as well as guides concerning their structural and functional relationships.
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31
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Oshima A, Tani K, Fujiyoshi Y. Atomic structure of the innexin-6 gap junction channel determined by cryo-EM. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13681. [PMID: 27905396 PMCID: PMC5146279 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Innexins, a large protein family comprising invertebrate gap junction channels, play an essential role in nervous system development and electrical synapse formation. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structures of Caenorhabditis elegans innexin-6 (INX-6) gap junction channels at atomic resolution. We find that the arrangements of the transmembrane helices and extracellular loops of the INX-6 monomeric structure are highly similar to those of connexin-26 (Cx26), despite the lack of significant sequence similarity. The INX-6 gap junction channel comprises hexadecameric subunits but reveals the N-terminal pore funnel, consistent with Cx26. The helix-rich cytoplasmic loop and C-terminus are intercalated one-by-one through an octameric hemichannel, forming a dome-like entrance that interacts with N-terminal loops in the pore. These observations suggest that the INX-6 cytoplasmic domains are cooperatively associated with the N-terminal funnel conformation, and an essential linkage of the N-terminal with channel activity is presumably preserved across gap junction families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsunori Oshima
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute (CeSPI), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.,Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Tani
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute (CeSPI), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fujiyoshi
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute (CeSPI), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.,Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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32
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Differential effects of pannexins on noise-induced hearing loss. Biochem J 2016; 473:4665-4680. [PMID: 27784763 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss, including noise-induced hearing loss, is highly prevalent and severely hinders an individual's quality of life, yet many of the mechanisms that cause hearing loss are unknown. The pannexin (Panx) channel proteins, Panx1 and Panx3, are regionally expressed in many cell types along the auditory pathway, and mice lacking Panx1 in specific cells of the inner ear exhibit hearing loss, suggesting a vital role for Panxs in hearing. We proposed that Panx1 and/or Panx3 null mice would exhibit severe hearing loss and increased susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss. Using the auditory brainstem response, we surprisingly found that Panx1-/- and Panx3-/- mice did not harbor hearing or cochlear nerve deficits. Furthermore, while Panx1-/- mice displayed no protection against loud noise-induced hearing loss, Panx3-/- mice exhibited enhanced 16- and 24-kHz hearing recovery 7 days after a loud noise exposure (NE; 12 kHz tone, 115 dB sound pressure level, 1 h). Interestingly, Cx26, Cx30, Cx43, and Panx2 were up-regulated in Panx3-/- mice compared with wild-type and/or Panx1-/- mice, and assessment of the auditory tract revealed morphological changes in the middle ear bones of Panx3-/- mice. It is unclear if these changes alone are sufficient to provide protection against loud noise-induced hearing loss. Contrary to what we expected, these data suggest that Panx1 and Panx3 are not essential for baseline hearing in mice tested, but the therapeutic targeting of Panx3 may prove protective against mid-high-frequency hearing loss caused by loud NE.
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Crespo Yanguas S, Willebrords J, Johnstone SR, Maes M, Decrock E, De Bock M, Leybaert L, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Pannexin1 as mediator of inflammation and cell death. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2016; 1864:51-61. [PMID: 27741412 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pannexins form channels at the plasma membrane surface that establish a pathway for communication between the cytosol of individual cells and their extracellular environment. By doing so, pannexin signaling dictates several physiological functions, but equally underlies a number of pathological processes. Indeed, pannexin channels drive inflammation by assisting in the activation of inflammasomes, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the activation and migration of leukocytes. Furthermore, these cellular pores facilitate cell death, including apoptosis, pyroptosis and autophagy. The present paper reviews the roles of pannexin channels in inflammation and cell death. In a first part, a state-of-the-art overview of pannexin channel structure, regulation and function is provided. In a second part, the mechanisms behind their involvement in inflammation and cell death are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Scott R Johnstone
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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Koizumi H, Ikezaki S, Ohbuchi T, Do BH, Hohchi N, Kawaguchi R, Kitamura T, Suzuki H. Acetylcholine-induced ex vivo ATP release from the human nasal mucosa. Auris Nasus Larynx 2016; 44:422-427. [PMID: 27692399 DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed at investigating ATP release in response to acetylcholine (Ach) and pharmacologically elucidating the intracellular signal transduction pathway of this reaction in an ex vivo experiment. METHODS The inferior turbinate mucosa was collected from 21 patients with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis who underwent endoscopic turbinectomy. The mucosa was shaped into a filmy round piece, and incubated with chemical(s) in Hank's balanced salt solution for 10min. After incubation, the ATP concentration was measured by a luciferin-luciferase assay. RESULTS The baseline release of ATP without stimulus was 57.2±10.3fM. The ATP release was significantly increased by stimulation with 100μM Ach. The Ach-induced ATP release was completely inhibited by removing extracellular Ca2+. Significant inhibition of the Ach-induced ATP release was also observed by the addition of 1μM atropine, 40μM 2-APB, 10μM CBX, and 100μM PPADS, whereas 30nM bafilomycin A1 did not affect the ATP release. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the Ach-induced ATP release from the human nasal mucosa is dependent on the pannexin-1 channel and purinergic P2X7 receptor, suggesting that these two molecules constitute a local autocrine/paracrine signaling system in the human nasal epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Koizumi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Shoji Ikezaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Toyoaki Ohbuchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Ba Hung Do
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Nobusuke Hohchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Rintaro Kawaguchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Takuro Kitamura
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | - Hideaki Suzuki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan.
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Krzyzanowski MC, Woldemariam S, Wood JF, Chaubey AH, Brueggemann C, Bowitch A, Bethke M, L’Etoile ND, Ferkey DM. Aversive Behavior in the Nematode C. elegans Is Modulated by cGMP and a Neuronal Gap Junction Network. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006153. [PMID: 27459302 PMCID: PMC4961389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
All animals rely on their ability to sense and respond to their environment to survive. However, the suitability of a behavioral response is context-dependent, and must reflect both an animal's life history and its present internal state. Based on the integration of these variables, an animal's needs can be prioritized to optimize survival strategies. Nociceptive sensory systems detect harmful stimuli and allow for the initiation of protective behavioral responses. The polymodal ASH sensory neurons are the primary nociceptors in C. elegans. We show here that the guanylyl cyclase ODR-1 functions non-cell-autonomously to downregulate ASH-mediated aversive behaviors and that ectopic cGMP generation in ASH is sufficient to dampen ASH sensitivity. We define a gap junction neural network that regulates nociception and propose that decentralized regulation of ASH signaling can allow for rapid correlation between an animal's internal state and its behavioral output, lending modulatory flexibility to this hard-wired nociceptive neural circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C. Krzyzanowski
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Sarah Woldemariam
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jordan F. Wood
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Aditi H. Chaubey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Chantal Brueggemann
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Alexander Bowitch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Mary Bethke
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Noelle D. L’Etoile
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Denise M. Ferkey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
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Les jonctions gap : une nouvelle cible thérapeutique pour le traitement des troubles dépressifs majeurs ? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2015; 171:762-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Pang Z, Li M, Yu D, Yan Z, Liu X, Ji X, Yang Y, Hu J, Luo K. TWO INNEXINS OF Spodoptera litura INFLUENCES HEMICHANNEL AND GAP JUNCTION FUNCTIONS IN CELLULAR IMMUNE RESPONSES. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 90:43-57. [PMID: 25939810 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Insect cellular immune responses include encapsulation, nodule formation, and phagocytosis. Hemichannels and gap junctions are involved in these cellular actions. Innexins (Inxs: analogous to the vertebrate connexins) form hemichannels and gap junctions, but the molecular mechanisms underlying their biology is still unclear. In this article, we reported a steady-state level of Inxs (SpliInxs) in hemocytes of Spodoptera litura, which formed nonfunctional hemichannels on the cell surface to maintain normal metabolism. We also reported that two innnexins (SpliInx2 and SpliInx3) were expressed significantly higher in hemocytes compared to other tissues, suggesting that they play important roles in hemocytes. Amino acid analysis found that two cysteine residues in two extracellular loops provided the capability for SpliInx2 and SpliInx3 hemichannels to dock into gap junctions. Western blotting demonstrated that both extracellular and intracellular loops of SpliInx3 and the extracellular loops of SpliInx2 might undergo posttranslational modification during the formation of a steady-state hemichannel. During hemichannel formation, SpliInx2 presented as one isoform, while SpliInx3 presented as three isoforms. These results provide fundamental knowledge for further study of how steady-state levels of SpliInxs are dynamically adjusted to perform cellular immune responses under immune challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunyu Pang
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Ming Li
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Dongshuai Yu
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Zhang Yan
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Xinyi Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Xinglai Ji
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Jiansheng Hu
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
| | - Kaijun Luo
- School of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Diversity and Evolution of High Education in Yunnan Province, Yunnan University, Kunming, P. R., China
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Bravo D, Maturana CJ, Pelissier T, Hernández A, Constandil L. Interactions of pannexin 1 with NMDA and P2X7 receptors in central nervous system pathologies: Possible role on chronic pain. Pharmacol Res 2015. [PMID: 26211949 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2015.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Pannexin 1 (Panx1) is a glycoprotein that acts as a membrane channel in a wide variety of tissues in mammals. In the central nervous system (CNS) Panx1 is expressed in neurons, astrocytes and microglia, participating in the pathophysiology of some CNS diseases, such as epilepsy, anoxic depolarization after stroke and neuroinflammation. In these conditions Panx1 acts as an important modulator of the neuroinflammatory response, by secreting ATP, by interacting with the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), and as an amplifier of NMDA receptor (NMDAR) currents, particularly in conditions of pathological neuronal hyperexcitability. Here, we briefly reviewed the current evidences that support the interaction of Panx1 with NMDAR and P2X7R in pathological contexts of the CNS, with special focus in recent data supporting that Panx1 is involved in chronic pain signaling by interacting with NMDAR in neurons and with P2X7R in glia. The participation of Panx1 in chronic pain constitutes a novel topic for research in the field of clinical neurosciences and a potential target for pharmacological interventions in chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bravo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago of Chile, Chile; School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Sport, Health and Recreation, University Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile.
| | - C J Maturana
- Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica De Chile, Chile
| | - T Pelissier
- Program of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Chile
| | - A Hernández
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago of Chile, Chile
| | - L Constandil
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago of Chile, Chile
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Billaud M, Chiu YH, Lohman AW, Parpaite T, Butcher JT, Mutchler SM, DeLalio LJ, Artamonov MV, Sandilos JK, Best AK, Somlyo AV, Thompson RJ, Le TH, Ravichandran KS, Bayliss DA, Isakson BE. A molecular signature in the pannexin1 intracellular loop confers channel activation by the α1 adrenoreceptor in smooth muscle cells. Sci Signal 2015; 8:ra17. [PMID: 25690012 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2005824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Both purinergic signaling through nucleotides such as ATP (adenosine 5'-triphosphate) and noradrenergic signaling through molecules such as norepinephrine regulate vascular tone and blood pressure. Pannexin1 (Panx1), which forms large-pore, ATP-releasing channels, is present in vascular smooth muscle cells in peripheral blood vessels and participates in noradrenergic responses. Using pharmacological approaches and mice conditionally lacking Panx1 in smooth muscle cells, we found that Panx1 contributed to vasoconstriction mediated by the α1 adrenoreceptor (α1AR), whereas vasoconstriction in response to serotonin or endothelin-1 was independent of Panx1. Analysis of the Panx1-deficient mice showed that Panx1 contributed to blood pressure regulation especially during the night cycle when sympathetic nervous activity is highest. Using mimetic peptides and site-directed mutagenesis, we identified a specific amino acid sequence in the Panx1 intracellular loop that is essential for activation by α1AR signaling. Collectively, these data describe a specific link between noradrenergic and purinergic signaling in blood pressure homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Billaud
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Yu-Hsin Chiu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Alexander W Lohman
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Thibaud Parpaite
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Joshua T Butcher
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Stephanie M Mutchler
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Leon J DeLalio
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Mykhaylo V Artamonov
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Joanna K Sandilos
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Angela K Best
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Avril V Somlyo
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Roger J Thompson
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Thu H Le
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Kodi S Ravichandran
- Center for Cell Clearance, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Brant E Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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Davidson J, Green C, Bennet L, Gunn A. Battle of the hemichannels – Connexins and Pannexins in ischemic brain injury. Int J Dev Neurosci 2014; 45:66-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J.O. Davidson
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - C.R. Green
- Department of OphthalmologyThe University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - L. Bennet
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - A.J. Gunn
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
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Mondal P, Trigun SK. Pannexin1 as a novel cerebral target in pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. Metab Brain Dis 2014; 29:1007-15. [PMID: 24807590 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-014-9556-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) represents a nervous system disorder caused due to liver dysfunction. HE is broadly classified as acute/overt and moderate-minimal HE. Since HE syndrome severely affects quality of life of the patients and it may be life threatening, it is important to develop effective therapeutic strategy against HE. Mainly ammonia neurotoxicity is considered accountable for HE. Increased level of ammonia in the brain activates glutamate-NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor (NMDAR) pathway leading to Ca(2+) influx, energy deficit and oxidative stress in the post synaptic neurons. Moreover, NMDAR blockage has been found to be a poor therapeutic option, as this neurotransmitter receptor plays important role in maintaining normal neurophysiology of the brain. Thus, searching new molecular players in HE pathogenesis is of current concern. There is an evolving concept about roles of the trans-membrane channels in the pathogenesis of a number of neurological complications. Pannexin1 (Panx1) is one of them and has been described to be implicated in stroke, epilepsy and ischemia. Importantly, the pathogenesis of these complications relates to some extent with NMDAR over activation. Thus, it is speculated that HE pathogenesis might also involve Panx1. Indeed, some recent observations in the animal models of HE provide support to this argument. Since opening of Panx1 channel is mostly associated with the neuronal dysfunctions, down regulation of this channel could serve as a relevant therapeutic strategy without producing any serious side effects. In the review article an attempt has been made to summarize the current information on implication of Panx1 in the brain disorders and its prospects for being examined as pharmacological target in HE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Papia Mondal
- Biochemistry Section Centre of Advanced Study in Zoology, Banaras Hindu university, Varanasi, 221005, India
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42
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Abstract
Pannexins (PANXs) are channel-forming proteins implicated in cellular communication through the secretion of biomolecules, such as ATP and glutamate. PANX1 and PANX3 are expressed in the male rat reproductive tract and their levels are regulated by androgens in the epididymis. There is currently no information on the regulation of the Panx1 promoter. The objective of the present study was to characterize the Panx1 promoter in order to understand its regulation in the epididymis. RNA ligase-mediated rapid amplification of cDNA ends identified three transcriptional start sites, at positions -443, -429, and -393. In silico analysis revealed that transcription was initiated downstream of binding sites for CREB and ETV4 transcription factors, in a CpG island context. To determine the importance of this region in gene transactivation, a 2-kb fragment of the promoter was cloned into a vector containing a luciferase reporter gene. Deletion constructs indicated that the highest transactivation levels were achieved with shorter constructs (-973 to -346 and -550 to -346). Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and supershifts indicated that both transcription factors were able to bind to the promoter region. Chromatin immunoprecipitation using rat caput epididymis cells confirmed the binding of ETV4 and CREB on the Panx1 promoter. Site mutation of either the ETV4 or CREB binding site decreased the transactivation of the reporter gene. Previous studies indicated that orchidectomy increased epididymal PANX1 levels. Likewise, we observed an increase in both ETV4 and CREB in orchidectomized rats. These results indicate that ETV4 and cAMP response elements play a role in the transcriptional regulation of Panx1 in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dufresne
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
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Abstract
In less than a decade, a small family of channel-forming glycoproteins, named pannexins, have captured the interest of many biologists, in large part due to their association with common diseases, ranging from cancers to neuropathies to infectious diseases. Although the pannexin family consists of only three members (Panx1, Panx2 and Panx3), one or more of these pannexins are expressed in virtually every mammalian organ, implicating their potential role in a diverse array of pathophysiologies. Panx1 is the most extensively studied, but features of this pannexin must be cautiously extrapolated to the other pannexins, as for example we now know that Panx2, unlike Panx1, exhibits unique properties such as a tendency to be retained within intracellular compartments. In the present review, we assess the biochemical and channel features of pannexins focusing on the literature which links these unique molecules to over a dozen diseases and syndromes. Although no germ-line mutations in genes encoding pannexins have been linked to any diseases, many cases have shown that high pannexin expression is associated with disease onset and/or progression. Disease may also occur, however, when pannexins are underexpressed, highlighting that pannexin expression must be exquisitely regulated. Finally, we discuss some of the most pressing questions and controversies in the pannexin field as the community seeks to uncover the full biological relevance of pannexins in healthy organs and during disease.
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Shruti S, Schulz DJ, Lett KM, Marder E. Electrical coupling and innexin expression in the stomatogastric ganglion of the crab Cancer borealis. J Neurophysiol 2014; 112:2946-58. [PMID: 25210156 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00536.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular channels that allow for the movement of small molecules and ions between the cytoplasm of adjacent cells and form electrical synapses between neurons. In invertebrates, the gap junction proteins are coded for by the innexin family of genes. The stomatogastric ganglion (STG) in the crab Cancer borealis contains a small number of identified and electrically coupled neurons. We identified Innexin 1 (Inx1), Innexin 2 (Inx2), Innexin 3 (Inx3), Innexin 4 (Inx4), Innexin 5 (Inx5), and Innexin 6 (Inx6) members of the C. borealis innexin family. We also identified six members of the innexin family from the lobster Homarus americanus transcriptome. These innexins show significant sequence similarity to other arthropod innexins. Using in situ hybridization and reverse transcriptase-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), we determined that all the cells in the crab STG express multiple innexin genes. Electrophysiological recordings of coupling coefficients between identified pairs of pyloric dilator (PD) cells and PD-lateral posterior gastric (LPG) neurons show that the PD-PD electrical synapse is nonrectifying while the PD-LPG synapse is apparently strongly rectifying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Shruti
- Volen Center and Biology Department, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts; and
| | - David J Schulz
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri at Columbia, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Kawasi M Lett
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri at Columbia, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Eve Marder
- Volen Center and Biology Department, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts; and
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Kwon TJ, Kim DB, Bae JW, Sagong B, Choi SY, Cho HJ, Kim UK, Lee KY. Molecular cloning, characterization, and expression of pannexin genes in chicken. Poult Sci 2014; 93:2253-61. [PMID: 25002553 DOI: 10.3382/ps.2013-03867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pannexins (Panx) are a family of proteins that share sequences with the invertebrate gap junction proteins, innexins, and have a similar structure to that of the vertebrate gap junction proteins, connexins. To date, the Panx family consists of 3 members, but their genetic sequences have only been completely determined in a few vertebrate species. Moreover, expression of the Panx family has been reported in several rodent tissues: Panx1 is ubiquitously expressed in mammals, whereas Panx2 and Panx3 expressions are more restricted. Although members of the Panx family have been detected in mammals, their genetic sequences in avian species have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we obtained the full-length mRNA sequences of chicken PANX genes and evaluated the homology of the amino acids from these sequences with those of other species. Furthermore, PANX gene expression in several chicken tissues was investigated based on mRNA levels. PANX1 was detected in the brain, cochlea, chondrocytes, eye, lung, skin, and intestine, and PANX2 was expressed in the brain, eye, and intestine. PANX3 was observed in the cochlea, chondrocytes, and bone. In addition, expression of PANX3 was higher than PANX1 in the cochlea. Immunofluorescent staining revealed PANX1 in hair cells, as well as the supporting cells, ganglion neurons, and the tegmentum vasculosum in chickens, whereas PANX3 was only detected in the bone surrounding the cochlea. Overall, the results of this study provide the first identification and characterization of the sequence and expression of the PANX family in an avian species, and fundamental data for confirmation of Panx function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Jun Kwon
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Dong-Bin Kim
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Jae Woong Bae
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Borum Sagong
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Soo-Young Choi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104-4539
| | - Hyun-Ju Cho
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Un-Kyung Kim
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus project), Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 702-701, South Korea
| | - Kyu-Yup Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 700-721, South Korea
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Turecek J, Yuen GS, Han VZ, Zeng XH, Bayer KU, Welsh JP. NMDA receptor activation strengthens weak electrical coupling in mammalian brain. Neuron 2014; 81:1375-1388. [PMID: 24656255 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Electrical synapses are formed by gap junctions and permit electrical coupling, which shapes the synchrony of neuronal ensembles. Here, we provide a direct demonstration of receptor-mediated strengthening of electrical coupling in mammalian brain. Electrical coupling in the inferior olive of rats was strengthened by activation of NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs), which were found at synaptic loci and at extrasynaptic loci 20-100 nm proximal to gap junctions. Electrical coupling was strengthened by pharmacological and synaptic activation of NMDARs, whereas costimulation of ionotropic non-NMDAR glutamate receptors transiently antagonized the effect of NMDAR activation. NMDAR-dependent strengthening (1) occurred despite increased input conductance, (2) induced Ca(2+)-influx microdomains near dendritic spines, (3) required activation of the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein-kinase II, (4) was restricted to neurons that were weakly coupled, and (5) thus strengthened coupling, mainly between nonadjacent neurons. This provided a mechanism to expand the synchronization of rhythmic membrane potential oscillations by chemical neurotransmitter input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Turecek
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Genevieve S Yuen
- Department of Psychiatry, New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68(th) Street, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Victor Z Han
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 9(th) Avenue, Seattle, WA 98155, USA
| | - Xiao-Hui Zeng
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 9(th) Avenue, Seattle, WA 98155, USA
| | - K Ulrich Bayer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado-Denver School of Medicine, 12800 E. 19(th) Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John P Welsh
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 9(th) Avenue, Seattle, WA 98155, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, 1959 N.E. Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Reyes EP, Cerpa V, Corvalán L, Retamal MA. Cxs and Panx- hemichannels in peripheral and central chemosensing in mammals. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:123. [PMID: 24847209 PMCID: PMC4023181 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and Pannexins (Panx) form hemichannels at the plasma membrane of animals. Despite their low open probability under physiological conditions, these hemichannels release signaling molecules (i.e., ATP, Glutamate, PGE2) to the extracellular space, thus subserving several important physiological processes. Oxygen and CO2 sensing are fundamental to the normal functioning of vertebrate organisms. Fluctuations in blood PO2, PCO2 and pH are sensed at the carotid bifurcations of adult mammals by glomus cells of the carotid bodies. Likewise, changes in pH and/or PCO2 of cerebrospinal fluid are sensed by central chemoreceptors, a group of specialized neurones distributed in the ventrolateral medulla (VLM), raphe nuclei, and some other brainstem areas. After many years of research, the molecular mechanisms involved in chemosensing process are not completely understood. This manuscript will review data regarding relationships between chemosensitive cells and the expression of channels formed by Cxs and Panx, with special emphasis on hemichannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edison Pablo Reyes
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile ; Dirección de Investigación, Universidad Autónoma de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Verónica Cerpa
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
| | - Liliana Corvalán
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauricio Antonio Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
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Yamaguchi H, Maruyama T, Urade Y, Nagata S. Immunosuppression via adenosine receptor activation by adenosine monophosphate released from apoptotic cells. eLife 2014; 3:e02172. [PMID: 24668173 PMCID: PMC3963506 DOI: 10.7554/elife.02172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is coupled with recruitment of macrophages for engulfment of dead cells, and with compensatory proliferation of neighboring cells. Yet, this death process is silent, and it does not cause inflammation. The molecular mechanisms underlying anti-inflammatory nature of the apoptotic process remains poorly understood. In this study, we found that the culture supernatant of apoptotic cells activated the macrophages to express anti-inflammatory genes such as Nr4a and Thbs1. A high level of AMP accumulated in the apoptotic cell supernatant in a Pannexin1-dependent manner. A nucleotidase inhibitor and A2a adenosine receptor antagonist inhibited the apoptotic supernatant-induced gene expression, suggesting AMP was metabolized to adenosine by an ecto-5’-nucleotidase expressed on macrophages, to activate the macrophage A2a adenosine receptor. Intraperitoneal injection of zymosan into Adora2a- or Panx1-deficient mice produced high, sustained levels of inflammatory mediators in the peritoneal lavage. These results indicated that AMP from apoptotic cells suppresses inflammation as a ‘calm down’ signal. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02172.001 Infections, toxins, and trauma can all injure tissue and cause the cells inside the tissue to die. When a cell dies, the membrane that surrounds it ruptures and its contents spill out, triggering inflammation of the surrounding tissues. This inflammation is part of the body’s efforts to begin the healing process but, if left uncontrolled, inflammation itself can cause further tissue damage. Diseased or damaged cells can also ‘choose’ to kill themselves to protect other healthy cells. This process, which is called apoptosis, also eliminates about 100,000 cells that are too old, or just no longer needed, from the human body every second. A cell undergoing apoptosis essentially dismantles itself, and the remains of the cell are packaged up, and cleared away by the white blood cells. Interestingly, this programed cell death releases many of the same molecules as other dying cells, but does so without triggering inflammation. The reason behind this lack of inflammation has not been clear. Now, Yamaguchi et al. have addressed this issue, and shown that cells undergoing apoptosis also release a chemical called adenosine monophosphate (AMP) that acts as a ‘calm down’ signal. The AMP is processed by white blood cells to a simpler chemical, which ‘switches on’ various genes in the white blood cells. This leads to the production of proteins that suppress the inflammation that would otherwise be triggered by other molecules released from the cells undergoing apoptosis. The findings of Yamaguchi et al. show how the community of cells in our body is kept in a healthy balance, and in the future, could improve our understanding and the treatment of inflammatory diseases. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02172.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yamaguchi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Hasegawa DK, Turnbull MW. Recent findings in evolution and function of insect innexins. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1403-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Sarrouilhe D, Dejean C, Mesnil M. Involvement of gap junction channels in the pathophysiology of migraine with aura. Front Physiol 2014; 5:78. [PMID: 24611055 PMCID: PMC3933780 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a common, recurrent, and disabling primary headache disorder with a genetic component which affects up to 20% of the population. One third of all patients with migraine experiences aura, a focal neurological disturbance that manifests itself as visual, sensitive or motor symptoms preceding the headache. In the pathophysiology of migraine with aura, activation of the trigeminovascular system from the meningeal vessels mediates migraine pain via the brainstem and projections ascend to the thalamus and cortex. Cortical spreading depression (CSD) was proposed to trigger migraine aura and to activate perivascular trigeminal nerves in the cortex. Quinine, quinidine and the derivative mefloquine are able to inhibit CSD suggesting an involvement of neuronal connexin36 channels in CSD propagation. More recently, CSD was shown to induce headache by activating the trigeminovascular system through the opening of stressed neuronal Pannexin1 channels. A novel benzopyran compound, tonabersat, was selected for clinical trial on the basis of its inhibitory activity on CSD and neurogenic inflammation in animal models of migraine. Interestingly, in the time course of animal model trials, tonabersat was shown to inhibit trigeminal ganglion (TGG) neuronal-glial cell gap junctions, suggesting that this compound could prevent peripheral sensitization within the ganglion. Three clinical trials aimed at investigating the effectiveness of tonabersat as a preventive drug were negative, and conflicting results were obtained in other trials concerning its ability to relieve attacks. In contrast, in another clinical trial, tonabersat showed a preventive effect on attacks of migraine with aura but had no efficacy on non-aura attacks. Gap junction channels seem to be involved in several ways in the pathophysiology of migraine with aura and emerge as a new promising putative target in treatment of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Sarrouilhe
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Humaine, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, Université de Poitiers Poitiers, France
| | - Catherine Dejean
- Service Pharmacie, Centre Hospitalier Henri Laborit Poitiers, France
| | - Marc Mesnil
- Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Appliquées, STIM, ERL 7368-CNRS, Université de Poitiers Poitiers, France
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