K(+)-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchange in human platelets

Multipurpose Na+ ions mediate excitation and cellular homeostasis: Evolution of the concept of Na+ pumps and Na+/Ca2+ exchangers

Ionic signalling is the most ancient form of regulation of cellular functions in response to environmental challenges. Signals, mediated by Na⁺ fluxes and spatio-temporal fluctuations of Na⁺ concentration in cellular organelles and cellular compartments contribute to the most fundamental cellular processes such as membrane excitability and energy production. At the very core of ionic signalling lies the Na⁺-K⁺ ATP-driven pump (or NKA) which creates trans-plasmalemmal ion gradients that sustain ionic fluxes through ion channels and numerous Na⁺-dependent transporters that maintain cellular and tissue homeostasis. Here we present a brief account of the history of research into NKA, Na⁺ -dependent transporters and Na⁺ signalling.

A functional approach to understanding the role of NCKX5 in Xenopus pigmentation

NCKX5 is an ion exchanger expressed mostly in pigment cells; however, the functional role for this protein in melanogenesis is not clear. A variant allele of SLC24A5, the gene encoding NCKX5, has been shown to correlate with lighter skin pigmentation in humans, indicating a key role for SLC24A5 in determining human skin colour. SLC24A5 expression has been found to be elevated in melanoma. Knockdown analyses have shown SLC24A5 to be important for pigmentation, but to date the function of this ion exchanger in melanogenesis has not been fully established. Our data suggest NCKX5 may have an alternative activity that is key to its role in the regulation of pigmentation. Here Xenopus laevis is employed as an in vivo model system to further investigate the function of NCKX5 in pigmentation. SLC24A5 is expressed in the melanophores as they differentiate from the neural crest and develop in the RPE of the eye. Morpholino knockdown and rescue experiments were designed to elucidate key residues and regions of the NCKX5 protein. Unilateral morpholino injection at the 2 cell stage resulted in a reduction of pigmentation in the eye and epidermis of one lateral side of the tadpole. Xenopus and human SLC24A5 can rescue the morpholino effects. Further rescue experiments including the use of ion exchange inactive SLC24A5 constructs raise the possibility that full ion exchanger function of NCKX5 may not be required for rescue of pigmentation.

Regulation of Platelet Function by Orai, STIM and TRP

Agonist-induced changes in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]c) are central events in platelet physiology. A major mechanism supporting agonist-induced Ca(2+) signals is store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE), where the Ca(2+) sensor STIM1 and the channels of the Orai family, as well as TRPC members are the key elements. STIM1-dependent SOCE plays a major role in collagen-stimulated Ca(2+) signaling, phosphatidylserine exposure and thrombin generation. Furthermore, studies involving Orai1 gain-of-function mutants and platelets from Orai1-deficient mice have revealed the importance of this channel in thrombosis and hemostasis to those found in STIM1-deficient mice indicating that SOCE might play a prominent role in thrombus formation. Moreover, increase in TRPC6 expression might lead to thrombosis in humans. The role of STIM1, Orai1 and TRPCs, and thus SOCE, in thrombus formation, suggests that therapies directed against SOCE and targeting these molecules during cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events could significantly improve traditional anti-thrombotic treatments.

A functional interaction between TRPC/NCKX induced by DAG plays a role in determining calcium influx independently from PKC activation

Ca(2+)influx might occur through K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger operating in reverse mode (rNCKX). In a cellular model different from platelets, an interaction between canonical transient receptor potential cation (TRPC) channels and NCX has been found. The aim of this study was to verify whether the TRPC/NCKX interaction operates in human platelets. Our results showed that the diacylglycerol (DAG) analogue, 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG) induced rNCKX-mediated Ca(2+) influx through TRPC-mediated Na(+) influx. DAG-induced activation of TRPC/NCKX occurs independently of protein kinase C (PKC) activation, as PKC inhibitor did not modify OAG-mediated Ca(2+) influx. Moreover, as both rNCKX and TRPC inhibitors reduced OAG-induced platelet aggregation which, conversely, was increased by flufenamic acid, known to develop TRPC activity, it could be suggested that the TRPC/NCKX interaction has a role in OAG-dependent platelet aggregation.

Molecular and functional characterization of the human platelet Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchangers

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchanger is a bi-directional transporter that plays an important role in maintaining the concentration of cytosolic Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+) ](i) ) of quiescent platelets and increasing it during activation with some, but not all, agonists. There are two classes of Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchangers: K(+) -independent Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX) and K(+) -dependent Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchanger (NCKX). Platelets have previously been shown to express NCKX1. However, initial studies from our laboratory suggest that NCX may also play a role in platelet activation. The objective of this study was to determine if the human platelet expresses functional NCXs. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH RT-PCR, DNA sequencing and Western blot analysis were utilized to characterize the human platelet Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchangers. Their function during quiescence and collagen-induced activation was determined by measuring [Ca(2+) ](i) with calcium-green/fura-red in response to: changes in the Na(+) and K(+) gradient, NCX pharmacological inhibitors (CBDMB, KB-R7943 and SEA0400) and antibodies specific to extracellular epitopes of the exchangers. KEY RESULTS Human platelets express NCX1.3, NCX3.2 and NCX3.4. The NCXs operate in the Ca(2+) efflux mode in resting platelets and also during their activation with thrombin but not collagen. Collagen-induced increase in [Ca(2+) ](i) was reduced with the pharmacological inhibitors of NCX (CBDMB, KB-R7943 or SEA0400), anti-NCX1 and anti-NCX3. In contrast, anti-NCKX1 enhanced the collagen-induced increase in [Ca(2+) ](i) . CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Human platelets express K(+) -independent Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchangers NCX1.3, NCX3.2 and NCX3.4. During collagen activation, NCX1 and NCX3 transiently reverse to promote Ca(2+) influx, whereas NCKX1 continues to operate in the Ca(2+) efflux mode to reduce [Ca(2+) ](i) .

Phorbol ester-evoked Ca2+ signaling in human platelets is via autocrine activation of P(2X1) receptors, not a novel non-capacitative Ca2+ entry

SUMMARY BACKGROUND

Platelets are reported to possess a protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent non-capacitative Ca(2+)entry (NCCE) pathway. The phorbol ester, phorbol, 12-myristate, 13-acetate (PMA) has been suggested to stimulate platelet NCCE. Recently we demonstrated important roles in store-operated Ca(2+)entry in human platelets for Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchangers (NCXs) and autocrine signaling between platelets after dense granule secretion. As PMA evokes dense granule secretion, we have investigated the role of NCXs and autocrine signaling in PMA-evoked Ca(2+)entry.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the roles of NCXs and dense granule secretion in PMA-evoked Ca(2+)signaling in human platelets.

METHODS

Fura-2- or sodium-binding benzofuran isophthalate (SBFI)-loaded platelets were used to monitor cytosolic Ca(2+)or Na(+) concentrations. Dense granule secretion was monitored as ATP release using luciferin-luciferase.

RESULTS

The NCX inhibitors KB-R7943 or SN-6, and removal of extracellular Na(+), significantly reduced PMA-evoked Ca(2+)entry. PMA-evoked dense granule secretion was almost abolished by pretreatment with the PKC inhibitor Ro-31-8220 and significantly slowed by KB-R7943. The P(2X1) antagonists Ro-0437626 or MRS-2159, or desensitization of P(2X1) receptors by prior treatment with alpha,beta-Methylene-ATP or omitting apyrase from the medium, reduced PMA-evoked Ca(2+)entry. Ro-0437626 or chelation of extracellular Ca(2+) slowed but did not abolish PMA-evoked ATP release, indicating that PMA-evoked dense granule secretion does not require P(2X1) receptor activation but is accelerated by P(2X1)-mediated Ca(2+)entry. The presence of NCX3 in human platelets was demonstrated by Western blotting.

CONCLUSION

PMA-evoked Ca(2+)entry results from an NCX3-dependent dense granule secretion and subsequent P(2X1) receptor activation by secreted ATP, rather than activation of a novel NCCE pathway.

The co-presence of Na+/Ca2+-K+ exchanger and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

We have previously shown that there is high Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCX) activity in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. In this study, by monitoring the [Ca(2+)](i) change in single cells and in a population of chromaffin cells, when the reverse mode of exchanger activity has been initiated, we have shown that the NCX activity is enhanced by K(+). The K(+)-enhanced activity accounted for a significant proportion of the Na(+)-dependent Ca(2+) uptake activity in the chromaffin cells. The results support the hypothesis that both NCX and Na(+)/Ca(2+)-K(+) exchanger (NCKX) are co-present in chromaffin cells. The expression of NCKX in chromaffin cells was further confirmed using PCR and northern blotting. In addition to the plasma membrane, the exchanger activity, measured by Na(+)-dependent (45)Ca(2+) uptake, was also present in membrane isolated from the chromaffin granules enriched fraction and the mitochondria enriched fraction. The results support that both NCX and NCKX are present in bovine chromaffin cells and that the regulation of [Ca(2+)](i) is probably more efficient with the participation of NCKX.

A key role for reverse Na+/Ca2+ exchange influenced by the actin cytoskeleton in store-operated Ca2+ entry in human platelets: Evidence against the de novo conformational coupling hypothesis

We have previously demonstrated a role for the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton in store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) in human platelets and interpreted this as evidence for a de novo conformational coupling step in SOCE activation involving the type II IP(3) receptor and the platelet hTRPC1-containing store-operated channel (SOC). Here, we present evidence challenging this model. The actin polymerization inhibitors cytochalasin D or latrunculin A significantly reduced Ca2+ but not Mn2+ or Na+ entry into thapsigargin (TG)-treated platelets. Jasplakinolide, which induces actin polymerization, also inhibited Ca2+ but not Mn2+ or Na+ entry. However, an anti-hTRPC1 antibody inhibited TG-evoked entry of all three cations, indicating that they all permeate an hTRPC1-containing store-operated channel (SOC). These results indicate that the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is not involved in SOC activation. The inhibitors of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX), KB-R7943 or SN-6, caused a dose-dependent inhibition of Ca2+ but not Mn2+ or Na+ entry into TG-treated platelets. The effects of the NCX inhibitors were not additive with those of actin polymerization inhibitors, suggesting a common point of action. These results indicate a role for two Ca2+ permeable pathways activated following Ca2+ store depletion in human platelets: A Ca2+-permeable, hTRPC1-containing SOC and reverse Na+/Ca2+ exchange, which is activated following Na+ entry through the SOC and requires a functional actin cytoskeleton.

Calcium adaptation to sodium pump inhibition in a human megakaryocytic cell line

The unique characteristics of the platelet Na/Ca exchanger, i.e., its dependence on both transmembrane Na and K gradients, render it highly sensitive to Na pump inhibition. In this project, we observed that the human megakaryocytic cell line CHRF-288 expresses both the α1- and α3-isoforms of the Na-K-ATPase. Inhibition of the Na pump increased the RNA and protein expressions of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase 2b, cytosolic Na and Ca, and the freely exchangeable Ca in the endoplasmic reticulum. These changes occurred in concert with diminished store-operated Ca entry and an increase in the maximal activity of the Na/Ca exchanger. Inhibition of the Na pump by ouabain was more effective in inducing these changes than diminishing medium K. Collectively, these observations point to an integrative effort to counteract the impact of Na pump inhibition by Ca sequestration into the endoplasmic reticulum, diminished Ca entry, and increased activity of the Na/Ca exchanger. The implications of these findings in platelet biology are discussed.

Potassium chloride supplementation diminishes platelet reactivity in humans

The prevalence of occlusive stroke is inversely correlated with potassium intake. We explored the hypothesis that a high potassium intake attenuates platelet reactivity, as expressed in ADP-evoked platelet aggregation. We studied healthy men (n=31) and women (n=42), blacks (n=33) and whites (n=40). In this cohort, we supplemented the habitual intake of 17 men and 21 women with 60 mmol KCl/70 kg body weight per day for 3 days and maintained 14 men and 21 women on their habitual intake. We then compared the change in ADP concentration causing 50% of the maximal initial rate (EC50) of platelet aggregation in the potassium-supplemented versus control groups. Potassium supplementation attenuated platelet reactivity, expressed by an increase in EC50 of platelet aggregation (P=0.0005), which was primarily attributable to an increase in EC50 in whites (P=0.0004). Urinary potassium excretion was significantly lower in blacks than in whites under basal conditions and after potassium supplementation. We conclude that potassium supplementation diminishes platelet reactivity, a phenomenon that provides a link between platelet biology and occlusive stroke.

Molecular cloning of a sixth member of the K+-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchanger gene family, NCKX6

Bioinformatic and molecular cloning tools were used to identify and isolate cDNA clones from mouse and human tissues that encode the sixth member of the K(+)-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchanger family, NCKX6. The mouse NCKX6 protein is 585 amino acids long and shares about 62% sequence similarity with previously identified exchangers in the alpha-repeat regions but has little primary sequence similarity outside these regions. NCKX6 transcripts of 4 kb are abundantly expressed in all tissues examined and are thus more broadly distributed than previously described NC(K)X family members. Two alternatively spliced products of this novel gene were identified that encode proteins of different length. The short isoform differs from the full-length isoform at the C-terminal hydrophobic domain as a result of a shift in the reading frame caused by the deletion of two exons. Both NCKX6 isoforms were expressed in HEK-293 cells. Functional analysis by digital imaging of fura-2 loaded transfected HEK-293 cells demonstrated that the short isoform exhibited K(+)-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchange activity whereas the full-length isoform did not. The latter was retained within the endoplasmic reticulum, whereas the short isoform was present at the plasma membrane in transfected cells. Immunofluorescence studies examining NCKX6 expression in native tissue using an NCKX6-specific antibody showed intense labeling of the cardiac sarcolemmal membrane. The discovery of NCKX6 therefore reveals a novel member of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger superfamily whose ubiquitous expression in all tissues suggests an important role for K(+)-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchange in maintaining cellular Ca2+ homeostasis in diverse tissues and cell types.

A novel topology and redox regulation of the rat brain K+-dependent Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, NCKX2

In this study we have examined the roles of endogenous cysteine residues in the rat brain K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger protein, NCKX2, by site-directed mutagenesis. We found that mutation of Cys-614 or Cys-666 to Ala inhibited expression of the exchanger protein in HEK-293 cells, but not in an in vitro translation system. We speculated that Cys-614 and Cys-666 might form an extracellular disulfide bond that stabilized protein structure. Such an arrangement would place the C terminus of the exchanger outside the cell, contrary to the original topological model. This hypothesis was tested by adding a hemagglutinin A epitope to the C terminus of the protein. The hemagglutinin A epitope could be recognized with a specific antibody without permeabilization of the cell membrane, supporting an extracellular location for the C terminus. Additionally, the exchanger molecule could be labeled with biotin maleimide only following extracellular application of beta-mercaptoethanol. Surprisingly, mutation of Cys-395, located in the large intracellular loop, to Ala, prevented reduction-dependent labeling of the protein. The activity of wild-type exchanger, but not the Cys-395 --> Ala mutant, was stimulated after application of beta-mercaptoethanol. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated self-association between wild-type and FLAG-tagged exchanger proteins that could not be inhibited by Cys-395 --> Ala mutation. These results suggest that NCKX2 associates as a dimer, an interaction that does not require, but may be stabilized by, a disulfide linkage through Cys-395. This linkage, perhaps by limiting protein mobility along the dimer interface, reduces the transport activity of NCKX2.

Electrophysiological characterization and ionic stoichiometry of the rat brain K(+)-dependent NA(+)/CA(2+) exchanger, NCKX2

We have recently described a novel K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, NCKX2, that is abundantly expressed in brain neurons (Tsoi, M., Rhee, K.-H., Bungard, D., Li, X.-F., Lee, S.-L., Auer, R. N., and Lytton, J. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 4115--4162). The precise role for NCKX2 in neuronal Ca(2+) homeostasis is not yet clearly understood but will depend upon the functional properties of the molecule. Here, we have performed whole-cell patch clamp analysis to characterize cation dependences and ion stoichiometry for rat brain NCKX2, heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells. Outward currents generated by reverse NCKX2 exchange depended on external Ca(2+) with a K(12) of 1.4 or 101 microm without or with 1 mm Mg(2+), and on external K(+) with a K(1/2) of about 12 or 36 mm with choline or Li(+) as counter ion, respectively. Na(+) inhibited outward currents with a K(1/2) of about 60 mm. Inward currents generated by forward NCKX2 exchange depended upon external Na(+) with a K(1/2) of 30 mm and a Hill coefficient of 2.8. K(+) inhibited the inward currents by a maximum of 40%, with a K(1/2) of 2 mm or less, depending upon the conditions. The transport stoichiometry of NCKX2 was determined by observing the change in reversal potential as individual ion gradients were altered. Our data support a stoichiometry for rat brain NCKX2 of 4 Na(+):(1 Ca(2+) + 1 K(+)). These findings provide the first electrophysiological characterization of rat brain NCKX2, and the first evidence that a single recombinantly expressed NCKX polypeptide encodes a K(+)-transporting Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger with a transport stoichiometry of 4 Na(+):(1 Ca(2+) + 1 K(+)).

Molecular cloning of a third member of the potassium-dependent sodium-calcium exchanger gene family, NCKX3

We describe here the identification and characterization of a novel member of the family of K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchangers, NCKX3 (gene SLC24A3). Human NCKX3 encodes a protein of 644 amino acids that displayed a high level of sequence identity to the other family members, rod NCKX1 and cone/neuronal NCKX2, in the hydrophobic regions surrounding the "alpha -repeat" sequences thought to form the ion-binding pocket for transport. Outside of these regions NCKX3 showed no significant identity to other known proteins. As anticipated from this sequence similarity, NCKX3 displayed K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger activity when assayed in heterologous expression systems, using digital imaging of fura-2 fluorescence, electrophysiology, or radioactive (45)Ca(2+) uptake. The N-terminal region of NCKX3, although not essential for expression, increased functional activity at least 10-fold and may represent a cleavable signal sequence. NCKX3 transcripts were most abundant in brain, with highest levels found in selected thalamic nuclei, in hippocampal CA1 neurons, and in layer IV of the cerebral cortex. Many other tissues also expressed NCKX3 at lower levels, especially aorta, uterus, and intestine, which are rich in smooth muscle. The discovery of NCKX3 thus expands the K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger family and suggests this class of transporter has a more widespread role in cellular Ca(2+) handling than previously appreciated.

Inhibition of aggregation of rabbit and human platelets induced by adrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine by KB-R7943, a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibitor

1. We investigated the effect of KB-R7943, a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibitor, on the aggregation response induced by adrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), alone or in combination in human and rabbit platelets in the presence or absence of ouabain. 2. KB-R7943 inhibited aggregation induced by the combination of adrenaline and 5-HT in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC(50) values of KB-R7943 were 4.2+/-2.0 or 3.0+/-0.7 microM with washed rabbit platelets with or without ouabain pretreatment, respectively. 3. In platelet-rich human plasma, the aggregation was biphasic. The IC(50) value of KB-R7943 was 17.2+/-4.4 microM for the first phase aggregation. 4. KB-R7943 did not inhibit the first phase of aggregation induced by adrenaline alone, or the monophasic aggregation induced by 5-HT alone. 5. The aggregation of rabbit platelets depended on the presence of K(+) in the medium, and K(+)-dependent and K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx were observed in resting platelets. Ouabain treatment increased only the K(+)-dependent but not the K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx. 6. KB-R7943 inhibited K(+)-dependent Ca(2+) influx with or without ouabain pretreatment, but not K(+)-independent Ca(2+) influx. 7. From these results, we conclude that KB-R7943 inhibits the adrenaline plus 5-HT induced aggregation of rabbit and human platelets by inhibiting K(+)-dependent Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCKX). Our results suggest that NCKX plays an important role in platelet aggregation.

The N-terminal portion of the main cytosolic loop mediates K+ sensitivity in the retinal rod Na+/Ca2+-K+-exchanger

Two types of Na+/Ca2+-exchangers have been characterized in the literature: The first is the cardiac, skeletal muscle and brain type, which exchanges 1 Ca2+ for 3 Na+, the second, found in retinal photosensor cells, transports 1 Ca2+ and 1 K+ in exchange for 4 Na+. The present work describes the properties of chimeric constructs of the two exchanger types. Ca2+ gel overlay experiments have identified a high affinity (Kd in the 1 microM range) Ca2+-binding domain between Glu601 and Asp733 in the main cytosolic loop of the retinal protein, just after transmembrane domain 5. Insertion of the retinal Ca2+-binding domain in the cytosolic loop of the cardiac exchanger conferred K+-dependence to the Ca2+ uptake activity of the chimeric constructs expressed in HeLa cells. The apparent Km of the K+ effect was about 1 mM. Experiments with C-terminally truncated versions of the retinal insert indicated that the sequence between Leu643 and Asp733 was critical in mediating K+ sensitivity of the recombinant chimeras. Thus, the high affinity Ca2+-binding domain in the main cytosolic loop of the retinal exchanger may regulate the activity of the retinal protein by binding Ca2+, and by conferring to it K+ sensitivity.

Alternatively spliced isoforms of the rat eye sodium/calcium+potassium exchanger NCKX1

We have investigated the structure, function, and expression of the rat eye sodium/calcium+potassium exchanger NCKX1. The sequence of independent rat NCKX1 clones and the analysis of rat eye mRNA by RT-PCR revealed a region of alternative splicing that comprised four exons and encoded a stretch of 113 amino acids near the beginning of the large cytosolic loop. In comparison with other NCKX1 molecules and the rat NCKX2 protein, rat NCKX1 was highly conserved within the hydrophobic regions but was quite divergent in the two large hydrophilic loops. The only exception was the region of the cytosolic loop encoded by the second alternatively spliced exon, which was approximately 60% identical. Similar to bovine, but different from human, rat NCKX1 possessed an acidic motif that was repeated 14 times in the cytoplasmic loop. Analysis of NCKX1 expression in different rat tissues by Northern blot revealed a very high level of expression of a 7-kb transcript in the eye but also lower levels of transcripts of various lengths in other tissues. The recombinant rat NCKX1 protein was tagged in the extracellular loop with the FLAG epitope and expressed in HEK-293 cells. Surface delivery and potassium-dependent sodium/calcium exchange activity were observed for each spliced variant.

Physiological and molecular characterization of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger in human platelets

In this report, we have demonstrated that Na+/Ca2+ exchanger activity in a human megakaryocytic cell line (CHRF-288 cells) is K+ dependent, similar to the properties previously described for Na+/Ca2+ exchange activity in human platelets. With the use of RT-PCR techniques and mRNA, the exchanger expressed in CHRF-288 cells was found to be identical to that expressed in human retinal rods. Northern blot analysis of the mRNA for the human retinal rod exchanger in CHRF-288 cells revealed a major transcript at 5.8 kb with two minor bands at 4.9 and 6.8 kb. mRNA for the retinal rod exchanger was also identified in human platelets. Using Ba2+ influx as a measure of Na+/Ca2+ exchange activity in human platelets, we have demonstrated that exchange activity is driven by the transmembrane gradient for K+ as well as that for Na+. We propose that the K+ dependence of the platelet Na+/Ca2+ exchanger could make platelets especially sensitive to daily fluctuations in salt intake.

Na+-Ca2+ exchange and Ca2+ efflux in transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells

The objective of this study was to assess the contribution of Na+-Ca2+ exchange activity to Ca2+ efflux at various cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in transfected Chinese hamster cells expressing the bovine cardiac Na+-Ca2+ exchanger. Ionomycin was added to fura-2 loaded cells and the resulting [Ca2+]i transient was monitored in Ca2+-free media with or without extracellular Na+. The presence of Na+ reduced both the amplitude and duration of the [Ca2+]i transient. Na+ had similar effects when the peak of the [Ca2+]i transient was buffered to 100 nM by cytosolic EGTA, or when Ca2+ was slowly released from internal stores with thapsigargin. Ca2+ efflux following ionomycin addition was directly measured with extracellular fura-2 and followed a biphasic time course (t(1/2) approximately = 10 s and 90s). The proportion of total efflux owing to the rapid phase was increased by Na+ and reduced by EGTA-loading. Na+ accelerated the initial rate of Ca2+ efflux by 65% in unloaded cells but only by 16% in EGTA-loaded cells. In both cases, the stimulation by Na+ was less than expected, given the pronounced effects of Na+ on the [Ca2+]i transient. We conclude that the exchanger contributes importantly to Ca2+ efflux activity at all [Ca2+]i values above 40 nM. We also suggest that Ca2+ efflux pathways may involve non-cytosolic or local routes of Ca2+ traffic.

Sodium/calcium exchange: its physiological implications

The Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, an ion transport protein, is expressed in the plasma membrane (PM) of virtually all animal cells. It extrudes Ca2+ in parallel with the PM ATP-driven Ca2+ pump. As a reversible transporter, it also mediates Ca2+ entry in parallel with various ion channels. The energy for net Ca2+ transport by the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger and its direction depend on the Na+, Ca2+, and K+ gradients across the PM, the membrane potential, and the transport stoichiometry. In most cells, three Na+ are exchanged for one Ca2+. In vertebrate photoreceptors, some neurons, and certain other cells, K+ is transported in the same direction as Ca2+, with a coupling ratio of four Na+ to one Ca2+ plus one K+. The exchanger kinetics are affected by nontransported Ca2+, Na+, protons, ATP, and diverse other modulators. Five genes that code for the exchangers have been identified in mammals: three in the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger family (NCX1, NCX2, and NCX3) and two in the Na+/Ca2+ plus K+ family (NCKX1 and NCKX2). Genes homologous to NCX1 have been identified in frog, squid, lobster, and Drosophila. In mammals, alternatively spliced variants of NCX1 have been identified; dominant expression of these variants is cell type specific, which suggests that the variations are involved in targeting and/or functional differences. In cardiac myocytes, and probably other cell types, the exchanger serves a housekeeping role by maintaining a low intracellular Ca2+ concentration; its possible role in cardiac excitation-contraction coupling is controversial. Cellular increases in Na+ concentration lead to increases in Ca2+ concentration mediated by the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger; this is important in the therapeutic action of cardiotonic steroids like digitalis. Similarly, alterations of Na+ and Ca2+ apparently modulate basolateral K+ conductance in some epithelia, signaling in some special sense organs (e.g., photoreceptors and olfactory receptors) and Ca2+-dependent secretion in neurons and in many secretory cells. The juxtaposition of PM and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum membranes may permit the PM Na+/Ca2+ exchanger to regulate sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ stores and influence cellular Ca2+ signaling.

K+-dependence of Na+-Ca2+ exchange in type I vestibular sensory cells of guinea-pig

The properties of the vestibular Na+-Ca2+ exchanger in mammalian type I vestibular sensory cells were studied using fura-2 fluorescence and immunocytochemical techniques. In the absence of external Na+, the activation of Na+-Ca2+ exchange in reverse mode required the presence of external K+ (K+o) and depended on K+o concentration. Alkali cations Rb+ and NH4+ but not Li+ or Cs+ substituted for K+o to activate the exchange. For pressure applications of 10 mm K+, the contribution of voltage-sensitive calcium channels to the increase in [Ca2+]i was < 15%. The dependence of the exchange on [K+]o was also recorded when the membrane potential was clamped using carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxy-phenylhydrazone (FCCP) and monensin ionophores. In these conditions, where there was no intracellular Na+, the increase in [Ca2+]i was completely blocked. These physiological results suggest that in reverse mode, Ca2+ entry is driven by both an outward transport of Na+ and an inward transport of K+. The dependence of the vestibular Na+-Ca2+ exchanger on K+ is more reminiscent of the properties of the retinal type Na+-Ca2+ exchanger than those of the more widely distributed cardiac type exchanger. Moreover, the immunocytochemical localization of both types of exchange proteins in the vestibular sensory epithelium confirmed the presence in the vestibular sensory cells of a Na+-Ca2+ exchanger which is recognized by an antibody raised against retinal type and not by an antibody raised against the cardiac type.

Interaction of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger with small molecules on cell Ca2+ signaling

Interactions of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger with small molecules on cell Ca2+ signaling were elucidated in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) C1 cells, which transfected a control vector without any expression of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger's gene while CHO CK1.4 cells transfected an expression vector encoding the bovine cardiac Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger's cDNA, treated with lithium- or sodium-buffer medium respectively, by using L16(2)15 multifactorial orthogonal statistics and fura-2 fluorescence real-time imaging. In contrast to controls of Li(+)-treated C1 cells, the store-dependent Ca(2+)-influx (SDCI) was enhanced by either the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger, Na(+), 1-¿(beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl¿-1H-imidazole HCl (SK&F96365) or ouabain, and by interactions of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger with either Na+, SK&F96365 or both SK&F96365 and ouabain; and ATP-induced Ca2+ release (AICR) was activated by SK&F96365 or Na+ alone, interactions of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger with SK&F96365 or Na+, and an interaction between SK&F96365 and ouabain. The dramatic interaction of the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger with small molecules indicates that cell Ca2+ signaling is generated by inositol triphosphate (InsP3)-dependent pathways, allosteric effects of the G-protein coupled P2y&2u purinoceptor and multi-site recognition. Our findings provide meaningful clues for designing new strategies of cardiocerebral vascular oxidative diseases.

Molecular cloning of a novel potassium-dependent sodium-calcium exchanger from rat brain

We have isolated a novel cDNA clone from rat cerebral cortex encoding a protein of 670 amino acids (NCKX2) that has significant similarity to the 1199-amino acid-long Na/Ca-K exchanger of bovine rod outer segment (NCKX1). NCKX2 transcripts are 10.5 kilobase pairs in length and are expressed abundantly in neurons throughout the brain and with much lower abundance in selected other tissues. The predicted topology of the rat NCKX2 protein is very similar to that of bovine NCKX1, beginning with a solitary transmembrane segment (M0), which is removed as a "signal peptide" in bovine NCKX1, an extracellular loop, a cluster of five transmembrane spanning segments (M1 to M5), a long cytoplasmic loop, and a final hydrophobic cluster (M6 to M11). Within the hydrophobic clusters, rat NCKX2 shares 80% identity and 91% similarity with bovine NCKX1. The two larger hydrophilic loops are much shorter in NCKX2 than in NCKX1, accounting largely for the difference in length between the two proteins, and are dissimilar in sequence except for a 32-amino acid stretch with 69% identity in the cytosolic loop. NCKX2 was epitope-tagged in the extracellular domain and was shown to be expressed at the surface of transfected HEK cells. Analysis of NCKX2 function by fluorescent imaging of fura-2-loaded transfected cells demonstrated that NCKX2 is a potassium-dependent sodium/calcium exchanger.

Preservation of myocyte contractile function after hyperthermic cardioplegic arrest by activation of ATP-sensitive potassium channels

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction can occur after hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest and subsequent reperfusion and rewarming. Activation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels within the myocyte sarcolemma has been shown to be cardioprotective for myocardial reperfusion injury and ischemia and may play a contributory role in preconditioning for cardioplegic arrest. Accordingly, the present study tested the hypothesis that cardioplegic arrest and activation of KATP channels by a potassium channel opener (PCO) would attenuate alterations in ionic homeostasis and improve myocyte contractile function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Porcine LV myocytes were isolated and randomly assigned to the following treatment groups: normothermic control, incubation in cell culture media for 2 hours at 37 degrees C (n=60); hyperkalemic cardioplegia, incubation for 2 hours in hypothermic hyperkalemic cardioplegic solution (n=60); or PCO/cardioplegia, incubation in cardioplegic solution containing 100 micromol/L of the PCO aprikalim (n=60). Hyperkalemic cardioplegia and rewarming caused a significant reduction in myocyte velocity of shortening compared with normothermic control values (33+/-2 versus 66+/-2 microm/s, P<.05). Cardioplegic arrest with PCO supplementation significantly improved indices of myocyte contractile function when compared with hyperkalemic cardioplegia (58+/-4 microm/s, P<.05). Myocyte intracellular calcium increased during hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest compared with baseline values (147+/-2 versus 85+/-2 nmol/L, P<.05). The increase in intracellular calcium was significantly reduced in myocytes exposed to the PCO-supplemented cardioplegic solution (109+/-4 nmol/L, P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Cardioplegic arrest with simultaneous activation of KATP channels preserves myocyte contractile processes and attenuates the accumulation of intracellular calcium. These findings suggest that changes in intracellular calcium play a role in myocyte contractile dysfunction associated with cardioplegic arrest. Moreover, alternative strategies may exist for preservation of myocyte contractile function during cardioplegic arrest.

Low concentrations of ouabain stimulate Na/Ca exchange in neurons

1. The effects of low concentrations of ouabain on 22Na efflux, 86Rb influx, 45Ca uptake and cyclic AMP levels were studied in snail ganglia. Ouabain, at concentrations below that which inhibits the Na-K pump as monitored by 86Rb influx, activated "reverse mode" Na/Ca exchange, as indicated by an increased 22Na efflux and 45Ca influx. 2. With electrophysiologic recordings ouabain, in the presence of K(+)-free saline to block Na/K transport, caused a membrane hyperpolarization. These concentrations of ouabain also caused elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP levels. 3. We suggest that the ouabain-induced stimulation of Na efflux is due to a stimulation of reverse Na/Ca exchange. since Na/Ca exchange is electrogenic, these observations are most consistent with ouabain stimulation of Na/Ca exchange in a reversed direction (intracellular Na for extracellular Ca). 4. The effect on Na/Ca exchange may be secondary to a rise in intracellular cyclic AMP.

Mutation of amino acid residues in the putative transmembrane segments of the cardiac sarcolemmal Na+-Ca2+ exchanger

We have examined the role of conserved regions and acidic or basic residues located in the putative transmembrane segments of the cardiac sarcolemmal Na+-Ca2+ exchanger by site-directed mutagenesis. The alpha-1 and alpha-2 repeats are transmembrane regions of internal similarity, which are highly conserved among Na+-Ca2+ exchangers. We find that Na+-Ca2+ exchange activity is highly sensitive to mutagenesis in the alpha-repeats. Mutation at residues Ser-109, Ser-110, Glu-113, Ser-139, Asn-143, Thr-810, Ser-811, Asp-814, Ser-818, or Ser-838 resulted in loss of exchanger activity. Mutation at residues Thr-103, Gly-108, Pro-112, Glu-120, Gly-138, Gly-809, Gly-837, and Asn-842 resulted in reduced exchanger activity, and altered current-voltage relationships were observed with mutations at residues Gly-138 and Gly-837. Only mutation at residue Ser-117 appeared to leave exchanger activity unaffected. Thus, the alpha-repeats appear to be important components for ion binding and translocation. Another region implicated in exchanger function is a region of similarity to the Na+,K+ pump (Nicoll, D. A., Longoni, S., Philipson, K. D. (1990) Science 250, 562-565). Mutations at two residues in the pump-like region, Glu-199 and Thr-203, resulted in nonfunctional exchangers, while mutation at two other residues, Glu-196 and Gly-200, had no effect. The role of acidic and basic residues in the transmembrane segments was also examined. Mutation of several basic residues (Arg-42, His-744, Lys-751, Lys-797, and His-858) did not affect exchange activity. Of the acidic residues located outside of the alpha-repeat and pump-like regions (Asp-740, Asp-785, and Asp-798), only mutation at Asp-785 resulted in reduction of exchanger activity.

Molecular biological studies of the cardiac sodium-calcium exchanger

The intron-exon organization of the entire human Na-Ca-exchanger gene NCX1 and of the central part of the related gene NCX2 has been determined. The NCX1 gene is at least 75 kb long and consists of at least 12 exons, the two largest (the 2nd and the 12th) coding for the N-terminal half of the exchanger sequence and for the last three C-terminal transmembrane domains. They also code for the 3.3-kb 3'-untranslated region and account for more than 90% of the length of the mature mRNA. The remainder of the NCX1 (NCX2) gene, coding for a putative cytoplasmic regulatory domain, is split into 9 (7) small exons. In spite of the limited (65%) average homology of the two cDNAs, analogous exons are readily identified within this portion of the two genes based on their high (80-95%) pairwise homology and similar patterns of differential splicing in brain. Human YAC clones have been identified in the CEPH library, which contain the entire NCX1/2 and NCKX1 (retinal rod exchanger) genes, and are used for chromosomal localization of the three genes. A distant homolog of the mammalian NCX genes has been identified in the C. elegans EST database and has been completely sequenced. It encodes a 20% shorter protein, which has an average 55% homology to human NCX1, and lacks most of the region that is known to be encoded by multiple differentially spliced exons in vertebrates. Comparison of available data on the gene structure of the NCX homologs in various species suggests that this protein has emerged in the primitive nervous system and has been subsequently adapted to other cellular environments by the use of novel domains, encoded in additional exons.

Na-Ca exchange in circulating blood cells

The experiments with peripheral lymphocytes raise two provocative questions: is SDCI composed of Ca influx via both a Ca channel and Na-Ca exchanger?, and what is the role of Na-Ca exchange in lymphocytes? In regard to the first issue, the potential for this dual Ca influx pathway exists, inasmuch as both Ca store depletion (by exposure of cells to EGTA) and TG-treatment initiated Ca influx that was enhanced following reversal of the Na gradient. These data could be interpreted to suggest a role for Ca influx via the exchanger during lymphocyte activation. However, our ability to demonstrate Na-Ca exchange activity was facilitated by the removal of Ca sequestering or extrusion mechanisms, including SERCA Ca pumps and forward mode Na-Ca exchange. Thus, it seems likely that under physiological conditions the primary function of the exchanger is to mediate Ca efflux. In this regard, it might play a role in lymphocyte activation by limiting net Ca entry during the sustained phase of Ca mobilization. Since sustained Ca entry is critical for Ca-dependent processes including interleukin-2 production, exchange activity would be an important modulator of this process. Changes in membrane potential, intracellular [Na] and cytosolic pH could therefore regulate Cai through its effects on Na-Ca exchange activity. Future challenges include defining the role of the Na-Ca exchange in Cai homeostasis and characterizing its function in lymphocyte populations.

Preservation of myocyte contractile function after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest with 2, 3-butanedione monoxime

One proposed contributory mechanism for depressed ventricular performance after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest is a reduction in myocyte contractile function caused by alterations in intracellular calcium homeostasis. Because 2,3-butanedione monoxime decreases intracellular calcium transients, this study tested the hypothesis that 2,3-butanedione monoxime supplementation of the hyperkalemic cardioplegic solution could preserve isolated myocyte contractile function after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest. Myocytes were isolated from the left ventricles of six pigs. Magnitude and velocity of myocyte shortening were measured after 2 hours of incubation under normothermic conditions (37 degrees C, standard medium), hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest (4 degrees C in Ringer's solution with 20 mEq potassium chloride and 20 mmol/L 2,3-butanedione monoxime). Because beta-adrenergic agonists are commonly employed after cardioplegic arrest, myocyte contractile function was examined in the presence of the beta-agonist isoproterenol (25 nmol/L). Hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest and rewarming reduced the velocity (32%) and percentage of myocyte shortening (27%, p < 0.05). Supplementation with 2,3 butanedione monoxime normalized myocyte contractile function after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest. Although beta-adrenergic stimulation significantly increased myocyte contractile function under normothermic conditions and after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest, contractile function of myocytes exposed to beta-agonist after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest remained significantly reduced relative to the normothermic control group. Supplementation with 2,3-butanedione monoxime restored beta-adrenergic responsiveness of myocytes after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest. Thus, supplementation of a hyperkalemic cardioplegic solution with 2,3-butanedione monoxime had direct and beneficial effects on myocyte contractile function and beta-adrenergic responsiveness after cardioplegic arrest. A potential mechanism for the effects of 2,3-butanedione monoxime includes modulation of intracellular calcium transients or alterations in sensitivity to calcium. Supplementation with 2,3-butanedione monoxime may have clinical utility in improving myocardial contractile function after hypothermic, hyperkalemic cardioplegic arrest.

The Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange system in rat glial cells in culture: activation by external monovalent cations

Cultured rat glial cells display a Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange system located at the plasma membrane levels. This was evidenced by the Na+ (i)-dependency of a Na+ (o)-inhibitable influx of Ca2+, or reversal exchange mode. This antiporter has an external site where monovalent cations (K+, Li+, and Na+ were investigated) stimulate the exchange by a chemical action. The monovalent cation is not transported during the exchange cycle. The mechanism of that stimulation agrees with an increase in the apparent affinity of the carrier for Ca2+(o) without effect on the maximal translocation rate. Two models can equally well account for the data: i) the formation of ECa(o) is essential for the binding of the monovalent cation, or ii) the activating cation can bind even when the carrier is free of Ca2+(o). The cations K+ and Li+ produced only stimulation, although that of K+ seem to require actions other than the chemical effect. The response to Na+ was biphasic; this can be fully explained considering that at low concentrations, Na+(o) binds preferentially to the activating monovalent site while at high concentrations it displaces Ca2+ from its external transporting site. Pure type I astrocytes displayed the same Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange mechanism.

Duality of plasmin effect on cytosolic free calcium in human platelets

Plasmin caused a modest and gradual increase in platelet cytosolic Ca2+, mediated through both Ca2+ mobilization and external Ca2+ entry. This response was associated with accelerated Ca2+ extrusion and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Plasmin-enhanced external Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ extrusion (but not Ca2+ mobilization) were attenuated by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein. Plasmin inhibited the thrombin-evoked increase in cytosolic Ca2+ and also inhibited the Ca2+ response to the tethered peptide TRAP-6 of the thrombin receptor. Furthermore, plasmin inhibited the binding of 125I-labeled alpha-thrombin to platelets. The inhibitory effect of plasmin on the thrombin response shared some characteristics with the effect of protein kinase C stimulators but was not reversed by protein kinase C inhibitors. Plasmin did not change platelet cyclic nucleotides. These results suggest a dual effect of plasmin. Plasmin produces a small rise in platelet cytosolic Ca2+ and a tyrosine kinase-dependent enhancement of Ca2+ turnover (external Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ efflux). However, it also attenuates the thrombin-evoked cytosolic Ca2+ response by blocking Ca2+ mobilization and slowing the rate of external Ca2+ influx. The latter feature would result in a plasmin-induced inhibition of thrombogenesis.

Increased calcium stores in platelets from African Americans

Differences in cation transport have been observed between African Americans and whites. These differences may underlie the increased predisposition of African Americans to essential hypertension. To further explore these racial differences, we used platelets as a cellular model for calcium regulation. We measured 45Ca fluxes in platelets from 21 African American and 25 white men. Additionally, using fura 2, we measured cytosolic free calcium levels in resting platelets and platelets treated with ouabain and thrombin. Platelet 45Ca uptake was described by two exchangeable pools: a small, rapidly exchangeable pool and a larger, slowly exchangeable pool. Both pools were larger in platelets from African Americans than from whites (263 versus 185 pmol per 1 x 10(8) platelets for the rapidly exchangeable pool, P < .05; 744 versus 532 pmol per 1 x 10(8) platelets for the slowly exchangeable pool, P < .01). 45Ca washout was described by a rapidly exchangeable pool and a static pool. The former was also higher in platelets from African Americans than from whites (246 versus 202 pmol per 1 x 10(8) platelets, P < .01). The cytosolic free calcium concentrations in resting platelets were lower in African Americans than in whites. After treatment with ouabain and thrombin, the sustained posttransient levels of cytosolic free calcium increased to a greater extent in platelets from African Americans (46.7 nmol/L) than from whites (34.5 nmol/L, P = .033). Platelets from African Americans demonstrate higher intracellular calcium stores than platelets from whites. This racial difference could explain the sensitivity of African Americans to vasoactive agents acting through calcium mobilization from intracellular stores and cytosolic calcium.

Calcium-activated sodium and chloride fluxes modulate platelet volume: role of Ca2+ stores

An increase in cytosolic ionized Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) initiates volume changes in various types of cells. In response to increases in [Ca2+]i most cell types contract by efflux of K+ and Cl-, whereas platelets expand in response to rises in [Ca2+]i. This study examined the importance of the source of Ca2+, the flux of ions responsible for the volume change, and the role of Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinases in regulating these ionic fluxes. The baseline platelet volume was independent of extracellular Ca2+ but when stimulated by the Ca2+ ionophore A-23187 (50 nM) the volume increased in both the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+ (1.18 +/- 0.08 vs. 0.83 +/- 0.06 fl, respectively). The increased volume was caused by the gain of Na+ and Cl-. Na+ entered through both conductive and nonconductive (Na+/H+ exchange) pathways, whereas the influx of Cl- was conductive and inhibited by the Cl- channel blocker 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid. The Ca(2+)-induced volume change was blocked by both calmodulin and protein kinase inhibitors. Thus the activation of Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinases promotes platelet swelling by stimulating Na+ and Cl- influx.

Mammalian exchangers and co-transporters

In the past year, novel mammalian exchanger and co-transporter isoforms have been characterized. Specialized subdomains within these oligomeric transporters have been shown to be involved in biosynthesis, targeting, transport and regulation. Progress on the structural front has been limited due to the lack of high-resolution structures, but transport mutants responsible for disease states continue to be identified.