The calmodulin-binding domain in the mouse type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor

SepM mutation in Streptococcus mutans clinical isolates and related function analysis

BACKGROUND

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is an important pathogenic bacterium that causes dental caries, while Streptococcus gordonii (S. gordonii) is a non-cariogenic bacterium that inhibits the growth of S. mutans. The SepM protein can promote the inhibitory ability of S. mutans against S. gordonii by cleaving CSP-21 and activating the ComDE two-component system. This study was designed to explore sepM mutation in S. mutans clinical isolates and related function in the regulation of interactions with S. gordonii.

METHODS

The S. mutans clinical strains that can inhibit the growth of S. gordonii constitute the inhibitory group. 286 C-serotype S. mutans strains were categorized into S. gordonii inhibitory (n = 114) and non-inhibitory bacteria (n = 172). We detected sanger sequencing of sepM gene, the expression levels of related genes and proteins in clinical isolates, obtained prokaryotic expression and purification of mutated proteins, and analyzed the effect of the target mutations on the binding between SepM and CSP-21.

RESULTS

We found that C482T, G533A, and G661A missense mutations were presented at significantly higher frequency in the inhibitory group relative to the non-inhibitory group. There was no significant difference in the expression of the sepM gene between selected clinical isolates harboring the G533A mutation and the control group. The expression levels of SepM, phosphorylated ComD, and ComE in the mutation group were significantly higher than those in the control group. SepM_control and SepM_D221N (G661A at the gene level) were found to contain two residues close to the active center while SepM_G178D (G533A at the gene level) contained three residues close to the active center. At 25 °C and a pH of 5.5, SepM_D221N (G661A) exhibited higher affinity for CSP-21 (KD = 8.25 µM) than did the SepM control (KD = 33.1 µM), and at 25 °C and a pH of 7.5, SepM_G178D (G533A) exhibited higher affinity (KD = 3.02 µM) than the SepM control (KD = 15.9 µM). It means that it is pH dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that increased cleavage of CSP-21 by the the mutant SepM may be a reason for the higher inhibitory effect of S. mutans on S. gordonii .

Structural and functional insight into a new emerging target IP3R in cancer

Calcium signaling has been identified as an important phenomenon in a plethora of cellular processes. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) are ER-residing intracellular calcium (Ca2+) release channels responsible for cell bioenergetics by transferring calcium from the ER to the mitochondria. The recent availability of full-length IP3R channel structure has enabled the researchers to design the IP3 competitive ligands and reveal the channel gating mechanism by elucidating the conformational changes induced by ligands. However, limited knowledge is available for IP3R antagonists and the exact mechanism of action of these antagonists within a tumorigenic environment of a cell. Here in this review a summarized information about the role of IP3R in cell proliferation and apoptosis has been discussed. Moreover, structure and gating mechanism of IP3R in the presence of antagonists have been provided in this review. Additionally, compelling information about ligand-based studies (both agonists and antagonists) has been discussed. The shortcomings of these studies and the challenges toward the design of potent IP3R modulators have also been provided in this review. However, the conformational changes induced by antagonists for channel gating mechanism still display some major drawbacks that need to be addressed. However, the design, synthesis and availability of isoform-specific antagonists is a rather challenging one due to intra-structural similarity within the binding domain of each isoform. HighlightsThe intricate complexity of IP3R's in cellular processes declares them an important target whereby, the recently solved structure depicts the receptor's potential involvement in a complex network of processes spanning from cell proliferation to cell death.Pharmacological inhibition of IP3R attenuates the proliferation or invasiveness of cancers, thus inducing necrotic cell death.Despite significant advancements, there is a tremendous need to design new potential hits to target IP3R, based upon 3D structural features and pharmacophoric patterns.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Small-Molecule Disruptors of Mutant Huntingtin-Calmodulin Protein-Protein Interaction Attenuate Deleterious Effects of Mutant Huntingtin

Huntington's disease is a progressive and lethal neurodegenerative disease caused by an increased CAG repeat mutation in exon 1 of the huntingtin gene (mutant huntingtin). Current drug treatments provide only limited symptomatic relief without impacting disease progression. Previous studies in our lab and others identified the abnormal binding of mutant huntingtin protein with calmodulin, a key regulator of calcium signaling. Disrupting the abnormal binding of mutant huntingtin to calmodulin reduces perturbations caused by mutant huntingtin in cell and mouse models of Huntington's disease and importantly normalizes receptor-stimulated calcium release. Using a series of high-throughput in vitro and cell-based screening assays, we identified numerous small-molecule hits that disrupt the binding of mutant huntingtin to calmodulin and demonstrate protective effects. Iterative optimization of one hit resulted in nontoxic, selective compounds that are protective against mutant huntingtin cytotoxicity and normalized receptor-stimulated intracellular calcium release in PC12 cell models of Huntington's disease. Importantly, the compounds do not work by reducing the levels of mutant huntingtin, allowing this strategy to complement future molecular approaches to reduce mutant huntingtin expression. Our novel scaffold will serve as a prototype for further drug development in Huntington's disease. These studies indicate that the development of small-molecule compounds that disrupt the binding of mutant huntingtin to calmodulin is a promising approach for the advancement of therapeutics to treat Huntington's disease.

Calcium Release Channels: Structure and Function of IP3 Receptors and Ryanodine Receptors

Ca²⁺-release channels are giant membrane proteins that control the release of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic and sarcoplasmic reticulum. The two members, ryanodine receptors (RyRs) and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate Receptors (IP₃Rs), are evolutionarily related and are both activated by cytosolic Ca²⁺. They share a common architecture, but RyRs have evolved additional modules in the cytosolic region. Their massive size allows for the regulation by tens of proteins and small molecules, which can affect the opening and closing of the channels. In addition to Ca²⁺, other major triggers include IP₃ for the IP₃Rs, and depolarization of the plasma membrane for a particular RyR subtype. Their size has made them popular targets for study via electron microscopic methods, with current structures culminating near 3Å. The available structures have provided many new mechanistic insights int the binding of auxiliary proteins and small molecules, how these can regulate channel opening, and the mechanisms of disease-associated mutations. They also help scrutinize previously proposed binding sites, as some of these are now incompatible with the structures. Many questions remain around the structural effects of post-translational modifications, additional binding partners, and the higher-order complexes these channels can make in situ. This review summarizes our current knowledge about the structures of Ca²⁺-release channels and how this informs on their function.

Structural Characterization of Carbonic Anhydrase VIII and Effects of Missense Single Nucleotide Variations to Protein Structure and Function

Human carbonic anhydrase 8 (CA-VIII) is an acatalytic isoform of the α -CA family. Though the protein cannot hydrate CO2, CA-VIII is essential for calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis within the body, and achieves this by allosterically inhibiting the binding of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) to the IP3 receptor type 1 (ITPR1) protein. However, the mechanism of interaction of CA-VIII to ITPR1 is not well understood. In addition, functional defects to CA-VIII due to non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNVs) result in Ca2+ dysregulation and the development of the phenotypes such as cerebellar ataxia, mental retardation and disequilibrium syndrome 3 (CAMRQ3). The pathogenesis of CAMRQ3 is also not well understood. The structure and function of CA-VIII was characterised, and pathogenesis of CAMRQ3 investigated. Structural and functional characterisation of CA-VIII was conducted through SiteMap and CPORT to identify potential binding site residues. The effects of four pathogenic nsSNVs, S100A, S100P, G162R and R237Q, and two benign S100L and E109D variants on CA-VIII structure and function was then investigated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, dynamic cross correlation (DCC) and dynamic residue network (DRN) analysis. SiteMap and CPORT analyses identified 38 unique CA-VIII residues that could potentially bind to ITPR1. MD analysis revealed less conformational sampling within the variant proteins and highlighted potential increases to variant protein rigidity. Dynamic cross correlation (DCC) showed that wild-type (WT) protein residue motion is predominately anti-correlated, with variant proteins showing no correlation to greater residue correlation. DRN revealed variant-associated increases to the accessibility of the N-terminal binding site residues, which could have implications for associations with ITPR1, and further highlighted differences to the mechanism of benign and pathogenic variants. SNV presence is associated with a reduction to the usage of Trp37 in all variants, which has implications for CA-VIII stability. The differences to variant mechanisms can be further investigated to understand pathogenesis of CAMRQ3, enhancing precision medicine-related studies into CA-VIII.

New Insights in the IP3 Receptor and Its Regulation

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃) receptor (IP₃R) is a Ca²⁺-release channel mainly located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Three IP₃R isoforms are responsible for the generation of intracellular Ca²⁺ signals that may spread across the entire cell or occur locally in so-called microdomains. Because of their ubiquitous expression, these channels are involved in the regulation of a plethora of cellular processes, including cell survival and cell death. To exert their proper function a fine regulation of their activity is of paramount importance. In this review, we will highlight the recent advances in the structural analysis of the IP₃R and try to link these data with the newest information concerning IP₃R activation and regulation. A special focus of this review will be directed towards the regulation of the IP₃R by protein-protein interaction. Especially the protein family formed by calmodulin and related Ca²⁺-binding proteins and the pro- and anti-apoptotic/autophagic Bcl-2-family members will be highlighted. Finally, recently identified and novel IP₃R regulatory proteins will be discussed. A number of these interactions are involved in cancer development, illustrating the potential importance of modulating IP₃R-mediated Ca²⁺ signaling in cancer treatment.

IP3 Receptor Plasticity Underlying Diverse Functions

In the body, extracellular stimuli produce inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃), an intracellular chemical signal that binds to the IP₃ receptor (IP₃R) to release calcium ions (Ca²⁺) from the endoplasmic reticulum. In the past 40 years, the wide-ranging functions mediated by IP₃R and its genetic defects causing a variety of disorders have been unveiled. Recent cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography have resolved IP₃R structures and begun to integrate with concurrent functional studies, which can explicate IP₃-dependent opening of Ca²⁺-conducting gates placed ∼90 Å away from IP₃-binding sites and its regulation by Ca²⁺. This review highlights recent research progress on the IP₃R structure and function. We also propose how protein plasticity within IP₃R, which involves allosteric gating and assembly transformations accompanied by rapid and chronic structural changes, would enable it to regulate diverse functions at cellular microdomains in pathophysiological states.

Characterization of NCS1-InsP3R1 interaction and its functional significance

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3Rs) are endoplasmic reticulum-localized channels that mediate Ca²⁺ release from the endoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm. We previously reported that an EF-hand Ca²⁺-binding protein, neuronal calcium sensor 1 (NCS1), binds to the InsP3R and thereby increases channel open probability, an event associated with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. However, the exact NCS1-binding site on InsP3R remains unknown. Using protein docking, co-immunoprecipitation, and blocking peptides, we mapped the NCS1-binding site to residues 66-110 on the suppressor domain of InsP3R type 1 (InsP3R1). We also identified Leu-89, a residue in the hydrophobic pocket of NCS1, as being critical for facilitating the NCS1-InsP3R1 interaction. Overexpression of WT NCS1 in MDA-MB231 breast cancer cells increased Ca²⁺ signaling and survival, whereas overexpression of Leu-89 NCS1 variants decreased Ca²⁺ signaling and survival, further suggesting the importance of this residue in the NCS1-InsP3R1 interaction. In conclusion, we show that NCS1-InsP3R1 interaction enhances intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling in cells and can be modulated by altering or occluding the hydrophobic pocket of NCS1. This improved understanding of the NCS1-InsP3R1 interaction may facilitate the development of management strategies for diseases resulting from aberrant NCS1 expression.

The emerging interrelation between ROCO and related kinases, intracellular Ca2+ signaling, and autophagy

ROCO kinases form a family of proteins characterized by kinase activity in addition to the presence of the so-called ROC (Ras of complex proteins)/COR (C-terminal of ROC) domains having a role in their GTPase activity. These are the death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) 1 and the leucine-rich repeat kinases (LRRK) 1 and 2. These kinases all play roles in cellular life and death decisions and in autophagy in particular. Related to the ROCO kinases is DAPK 2 that however cannot be classified as a ROCO protein due to the absence of the ROC/COR domains. This review aims to bring together what is known about the relation between these proteins and intracellular Ca²⁺ signals in the induction and regulation of autophagy. Interestingly, DAPK 1 and 2 and LRRK2 are all linked to Ca²⁺ signaling in their effects on autophagy, though in various ways. Present evidence supports an upstream role for LRRK2 that via lysosomal and endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ release can trigger autophagy induction. In contrast herewith, DAPK1 and 2 react on existing Ca²⁺ signals to stimulate the autophagic pathway. Further research will be needed for obtaining a full understanding of the role of these various kinases in autophagy and to assess their exact relation with intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling as this would be helpful in the development of novel therapeutic strategies against neurodegenerative disorders, cancer and auto-immune diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ECS Meeting edited by Claus Heizmann, Joachim Krebs and Jacques Haiech.

The lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid induces folding of disordered peptides with basic amphipathic character into rare conformations

Membrane-active, basic amphipathic peptides represent a class of biomolecules with diverse functions. Sequentially close protein segments also show similar behaviour in several ways. Here we investigated the effect of the lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) on the conformation of structurally disordered peptides including extracellular antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and calmodulin-binding motifs derived from cytosolic and membrane target proteins. The interaction with associated LPA resulted in gain of ordered secondary structure elements, which for most cases were previously uncharacteristic of the particular peptide. Results revealed mechanism of the LPA-peptide interactions with regulation of the lipid on peptide conformation and oligomerization in a concentration-dependent manner involving (1) relocation of tryptophan residues into the lipid cluster, (2) multiple contacts between the binding partners dictated by complex driving forces, (3) multiple peptide binding to LPA associates with an affinity in the low micromolar range, and (4) selectivity for LPA compared with structurally related lipids. In line with recent findings showing endogenous molecules inducing structural changes in AMPs, we propose that accumulation of LPA in signalling or pathological processes might modulate host-defense activity or trigger certain processes by direct interaction with cationic amphipathic peptide sequences.

IP3 Receptor Properties and Function at Membrane Contact Sites

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃) receptor (IP₃R) is a ubiquitously expressed Ca²⁺-release channel localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The intracellular Ca²⁺ signals originating from the activation of the IP₃R regulate multiple cellular processes including the control of cell death versus cell survival via their action on apoptosis and autophagy. The exact role of the IP₃Rs in these two processes does not only depend on their activity, which is modulated by the cytosolic composition (Ca²⁺, ATP, redox status, …) and by various types of regulatory proteins, including kinases and phosphatases as well as by a number of oncogenes and tumor suppressors, but also on their intracellular localization, especially at the ER-mitochondrial and ER-lysosomal interfaces. At these interfaces, Ca²⁺ microdomains are formed, in which the Ca²⁺ concentration is finely regulated by the different ER, mitochondrial and lysosomal Ca²⁺-transport systems and also depends on the functional and structural interactions existing between them. In this review, we therefore discuss the most recent insights in the role of Ca²⁺ signaling in general, and of the IP₃R in particular, in the control of basal mitochondrial bioenergetics, apoptosis, and autophagy at the level of inter-organellar contact sites.

Pathophysiological consequences of isoform-specific IP3 receptor mutations

Ca²⁺ signaling governs a diverse range of cellular processes and, as such, is subject to tight regulation. A main component of the complex intracellular Ca²⁺-signaling network is the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃) receptor (IP₃R), a tetrameric channel that mediates Ca²⁺ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in response to IP₃. IP₃R function is controlled by a myriad of factors, such as Ca²⁺, ATP, kinases and phosphatases and a plethora of accessory and regulatory proteins. Further complexity in IP₃R-mediated Ca²⁺ signaling is the result of the existence of three main isoforms (IP₃R1, IP₃R2 and IP₃R3) that display distinct functional characteristics and properties. Despite their abundant and overlapping expression profiles, IP₃R1 is highly expressed in neurons, IP₃R2 in cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes and IP₃R3 in rapidly proliferating cells as e.g. epithelial cells. As a consequence, dysfunction and/or dysregulation of IP₃R isoforms will have distinct pathophysiological outcomes, ranging from neurological disorders for IP₃R1 to dysfunctional exocrine tissues and autoimmune diseases for IP₃R2 and -3. Over the past years, several IP₃R mutations have surfaced in the sequence analysis of patient-derived samples. Here, we aimed to provide an integrative overview of the clinically most relevant mutations for each IP₃R isoform and the subsequent molecular mechanisms underlying the etiology of the disease.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors and their protein partners as signalling hubs

Inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptors (IP₃Rs) are expressed in nearly all animal cells, where they mediate the release of Ca²⁺ from intracellular stores. The complex spatial and temporal organization of the ensuing intracellular Ca²⁺ signals allows selective regulation of diverse physiological responses. Interactions of IP₃Rs with other proteins contribute to the specificity and speed of Ca²⁺ signalling pathways, and to their capacity to integrate information from other signalling pathways. In this review, we provide a comprehensive survey of the proteins proposed to interact with IP₃Rs and the functional effects that these interactions produce. Interacting proteins can determine the activity of IP₃Rs, facilitate their regulation by multiple signalling pathways and direct the Ca²⁺ that they release to specific targets. We suggest that IP₃Rs function as signalling hubs through which diverse inputs are processed and then emerge as cytosolic Ca²⁺ signals.

Regulatory Mechanisms of Endoplasmic Reticulum Resident IP3 Receptors

Dysregulated calcium signaling and accumulation of aberrant proteins causing endoplasmic reticulum stress are the early sign of intra-axonal pathological events in many neurodegenerative diseases, and apoptotic signaling is initiated when the stress goes beyond the maximum threshold level of endoplasmic reticulum. The fate of the cell to undergo apoptosis is controlled by Ca2(+) signaling and dynamics at the level of the endoplasmic reticulum. Endoplasmic reticulum resident inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3R) play a pivotal role in cell death signaling by mediating Ca2(+) flux from the endoplasmic reticulum into the cytosol and mitochondria. Hence, many prosurvival and prodeath signaling pathways and proteins affect Ca2(+) signaling by directly targeting IP3R channels, which can happen in an IP3R-isoform-dependent manner. Here, in this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of inositol triphosphate receptors in calcium regulation and initiation of apoptosis during unfolded protein response.

Carbonic anhydrase-8 regulates inflammatory pain by inhibiting the ITPR1-cytosolic free calcium pathway

Calcium dysregulation is causally linked with various forms of neuropathology including seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s, spinal cerebellar ataxia (SCA) and chronic pain. Carbonic anhydrase-8 (Car8) is an allosteric inhibitor of inositol trisphosphate receptor-1 (ITPR1), which regulates intracellular calcium release fundamental to critical cellular functions including neuronal excitability, neurite outgrowth, neurotransmitter release, mitochondrial energy production and cell fate. In this report we test the hypothesis that Car8 regulation of ITPR1 and cytoplasmic free calcium release is critical to nociception and pain behaviors. We show Car8 null mutant mice (MT) exhibit mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) from MT also demonstrate increased steady-state ITPR1 phosphorylation (pITPR1) and cytoplasmic free calcium release. Overexpression of Car8 wildtype protein in MT nociceptors complements Car8 deficiency, down regulates pITPR1 and abolishes thermal and mechanical hypersensitivity. We also show that Car8 nociceptor overexpression alleviates chronic inflammatory pain. Finally, inflammation results in downregulation of DRG Car8 that is associated with increased pITPR1 expression relative to ITPR1, suggesting a possible mechanism of acute hypersensitivity. Our findings indicate Car8 regulates the ITPR1-cytosolic free calcium pathway that is critical to nociception, inflammatory pain and possibly other neuropathological states. Car8 and ITPR1 represent new therapeutic targets for chronic pain.

Structural insights into endoplasmic reticulum stored calcium regulation by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and ryanodine receptors

The two major calcium (Ca²⁺) release channels on the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) are inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and ryanodine receptors (IP3Rs and RyRs). They play versatile roles in essential cell signaling processes, and abnormalities of these channels are associated with a variety of diseases. Structural information on IP3Rs and RyRs determined using multiple techniques including X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and cryo-electron microscopy (EM), has significantly advanced our understanding of the mechanisms by which these Ca²⁺ release channels function under normal and pathophysiological circumstances. In this review, structural advances on the understanding of the mechanisms of IP3R and RyR function and dysfunction are summarized. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: 13th European Symposium on Calcium.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-isoform diversity in cell death and survival

Cell-death and -survival decisions are critically controlled by intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis and dynamics at the level of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors (IP3Rs) play a pivotal role in these processes by mediating Ca(2+) flux from the ER into the cytosol and mitochondria. Hence, it is clear that many pro-survival and pro-death signaling pathways and proteins affect Ca(2+) signaling by directly targeting IP3R channels, which can happen in an IP3R-isoform-dependent manner. In this review, we will focus on how the different IP3R isoforms (IP3R1, IP3R2 and IP3R3) control cell death and survival. First, we will present an overview of the isoform-specific regulation of IP3Rs by cellular factors like IP3, Ca(2+), Ca(2+)-binding proteins, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thiol modification, phosphorylation and interacting proteins, and of IP3R-isoform specific expression patterns. Second, we will discuss the role of the ER as a Ca(2+) store in cell death and survival and how IP3Rs and pro-survival/pro-death proteins can modulate the basal ER Ca(2+) leak. Third, we will review the regulation of the Ca(2+)-flux properties of the IP3R isoforms by the ER-resident and by the cytoplasmic proteins involved in cell death and survival as well as by redox regulation. Hence, we aim to highlight the specific roles of the various IP3R isoforms in cell-death and -survival signaling. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health and disease. Guest Editors: Geert Bultynck, Jacques Haiech, Claus W. Heizmann, Joachim Krebs, and Marc Moreau.

Allostery in Ca²⁺ channel modulation by calcium-binding proteins

Distinguishing between allostery and competition among modulating ligands is challenging for large target molecules. Out of practical necessity, inferences are often drawn from in vitro assays on target fragments, but such inferences may belie actual mechanisms. One key example of such ambiguity concerns calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs) that tune signaling molecules regulated by calmodulin (CaM). As CaBPs resemble CaM, CaBPs are believed to competitively replace CaM on targets. Yet, brain CaM expression far surpasses that of CaBPs, raising questions as to whether CaBPs can exert appreciable biological actions. Here, we devise a live-cell, holomolecule approach that reveals an allosteric mechanism for calcium channels whose CaM-mediated inactivation is eliminated by CaBP4. Our strategy is to covalently link CaM and/or CaBP to holochannels, enabling live-cell fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays to resolve a cyclical allosteric binding scheme for CaM and CaBP4 to channels, thus explaining how trace CaBPs prevail. This approach may apply generally for discerning allostery in live cells.

Intracellular calcium channels: inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

The inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3Rs) are the major intracellular Ca(2+)-release channels in cells. Activity of InsP3Rs is essential for elementary and global Ca(2+) events in the cell. There are three InsP3Rs isoforms that are present in mammalian cells. In this review we will focus primarily on InsP3R type 1. The InsP3R1 is a predominant isoform in neurons and it is the most extensively studied isoform. Combination of biophysical and structural methods revealed key mechanisms of InsP3R function and modulation. Cell biological and biochemical studies lead to identification of a large number of InsP3R-binding proteins. InsP3Rs are involved in the regulation of numerous physiological processes, including learning and memory, proliferation, differentiation, development and cell death. Malfunction of InsP3R1 play a role in a number of neurodegenerative disorders and other disease states. InsP3Rs represent a potentially valuable drug target for treatment of these disorders and for modulating activity of neurons and other cells. Future studies will provide better understanding of physiological functions of InsP3Rs in health and disease.

Activation of IP3 receptors requires an endogenous 1-8-14 calmodulin-binding motif

Binding of IP₃ (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate) to the IP₃-binding core (residues 224–604) of IP₃Rs (IP₃ receptors) initiates opening of these ubiquitous intracellular Ca²⁺ channels. The mechanisms are unresolved, but require conformational changes to pass through the suppressor domain (residues 1–223). A calmodulin-binding peptide derived from myosin light chain kinase uncouples these events. We identified a similar conserved 1-8-14 calmodulin-binding motif within the suppressor domain of IP₃R1 and, using peptides and mutagenesis, we demonstrate that it is essential for IP₃R activation, whether assessed by IP₃-evoked Ca²⁺ release or patch-clamp recoding of nuclear IP₃R. Mimetic peptides specifically inhibit activation of IP₃R by uncoupling the IP₃-binding core from the suppressor domain. Mutations of key hydrophobic residues within the endogenous 1-8-14 motif mimic the peptides. Our results show that an endogenous 1-8-14 motif mediates conformational changes that are essential for IP₃R activation. The inhibitory effects of calmodulin and related proteins may result from disruption of this essential interaction.

Ca(2+) signalling by IP(3) receptors

The Ca(2) (+) signals evoked by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) are built from elementary Ca(2) (+) release events involving progressive recruitment of IP(3) receptors (IP(3)R), intracellular Ca(2) (+) channels that are expressed in almost all animal cells. The smallest events ('blips') result from opening of single IP(3)R. Larger events ('puffs') reflect the near-synchronous opening of a small cluster of IP(3)R. These puffs become more frequent as the stimulus intensity increases and they eventually trigger regenerative Ca(2) (+) waves that propagate across the cell. This hierarchical recruitment of IP(3)R is important in allowing Ca(2) (+) signals to be delivered locally to specific target proteins or more globally to the entire cell. Co-regulation of IP(3)R by Ca(2) (+) and IP(3), the ability of a single IP(3)R rapidly to mediate a large efflux of Ca(2) (+) from the endoplasmic reticulum, and the assembly of IP(3)R into clusters are key features that allow IP(3)R to propagate Ca(2) (+) signals regeneratively. We review these properties of IP(3)R and the structural basis of IP(3)R behavior.

Inositol 1, 4, 5-trisphosphate receptor interacts with the SNARE domain of syntaxin 1B

Inositol 1, 4, 5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs) are intracellular ligand-gated Ca(2+) channels that mediate Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) into the cytosol and function in diverse cellular processes including fertilization, muscle contraction, apoptosis, secretion, and synaptic plasticity. The Ca(2+) release activity of IP(3)Rs is tightly regulated by many factors including IP(3)R-binding proteins. We show that IP(3)Rs interact with syntaxin 1 (Syx1), a membrane trafficking protein that regulates various plasma-membrane ion channels including N-, P/Q, and L-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels, voltage-gated potassium channels, and an epithelial sodium channel. We found that a SNARE-domain of Syx1B, one of the two Syx1 isoforms, directly interacted with the type1 IP(3)R (IP(3)R1) internal coupling domain, a known modulator for channel opening. These results indicate that Syx1B is an IP(3)R-interacting protein and that its interaction may play a crucial role in regulating the channel activity of IP(3)Rs in Syx1B-expressing cells.

Interaction of calmodulin with Sec61α limits Ca2+ leakage from the endoplasmic reticulum

In eukaryotes, protein transport into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is facilitated by a protein-conducting channel, the Sec61 complex. The presence of large, water-filled pores with uncontrolled ion permeability, as formed by Sec61 complexes in the ER membrane, would seriously interfere with the regulated release of calcium from the ER lumen into the cytosol, an essential mechanism for intracellular signalling. We identified a calmodulin (CaM)-binding motif in the cytosolic N-terminus of mammalian Sec61α that bound CaM but not Ca2+-free apocalmodulin with nanomolar affinity and sequence specificity. In single-channel measurements, CaM potently mediated Sec61-channel closure in Ca2+-dependent manner. At the cellular level, two different CaM antagonists stimulated calcium release from the ER through Sec61 channels. However, protein transport into microsomes was not modulated by Ca2+-CaM. Molecular modelling of the ribosome/Sec61/CaM complexes supports the view that simultaneous ribosome and CaM binding to the Sec61 complex may be possible. Overall, CaM is involved in limiting Ca2+ leakage from the ER.

Global dynamic conformational changes in the suppressor domain of IP3 receptor by stepwise binding of the two lobes of calmodulin

The roles of calmodulin (CaM) have been key points of controversy in the regulation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R). To address the issue, we studied the interaction between CaM and the suppressor domain of IP(3)R, a key allosteric regulatory domain. First, by means of a pulldown and a fluorescence titration experiment, we confirmed the interaction. Through subsequent NMR binding experiments, we observed dramatic peak disappearances of the suppressor domain on interaction with apo-CaM. The data indicated that apo-CaM induces large-scale dynamic conformational changes in the suppressor domain, involving partial unfolding and subdomain rearrangement. Analysis of the NMR data of CaM surprisingly revealed that its C lobe alone can cause such changes. Further binding experiments showed that calcium allows the free N lobe to bind to the suppressor domain, which induces extra conformational changes in both of the proteins. These results were also confirmed with CaM deletion mutants with either the N or C lobe. On the basis of this novel binding mechanism, we propose a model in which the partial unfolding of the suppressor domain by apo-CaM and the stepwise binding of the N lobe of CaM to the suppressor domain are important elements of calcium/CaM inhibition of IP(3)R. We believe that our working model encompasses previous regulation mechanisms of IP(3)R by calcium/CaM and provides new insights into the CaM-target interaction.

IP(3) receptors: toward understanding their activation

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)R) and their relatives, ryanodine receptors, are the channels that most often mediate Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores. Their regulation by Ca(2+) allows them also to propagate cytosolic Ca(2+) signals regeneratively. This brief review addresses the structural basis of IP(3)R activation by IP(3) and Ca(2+). IP(3) initiates IP(3)R activation by promoting Ca(2+) binding to a stimulatory Ca(2+)-binding site, the identity of which is unresolved. We suggest that interactions of critical phosphate groups in IP(3) with opposite sides of the clam-like IP(3)-binding core cause it to close and propagate a conformational change toward the pore via the adjacent N-terminal suppressor domain. The pore, assembled from the last pair of transmembrane domains and the intervening pore loop from each of the four IP(3)R subunits, forms a structure in which a luminal selectivity filter and a gate at the cytosolic end of the pore control cation fluxes through the IP(3)R.

Integrated protein array screening and high throughput validation of 70 novel neural calmodulin-binding proteins

Calmodulin is an essential regulator of intracellular processes in response to extracellular stimuli mediated by a rise in Ca(2+) ion concentration. To profile protein-protein interactions of calmodulin in human brain, we probed a high content human protein array with fluorophore-labeled calmodulin in the presence of Ca(2+). This protein array contains 37,200 redundant proteins, incorporating over 10,000 unique human neural proteins from a human brain cDNA library. We designed a screen to find high affinity (K(D) < or = 1 microm) binding partners of calmodulin and identified 76 human proteins from all intracellular compartments of which 72 are novel. We measured the binding kinetics of 74 targets with calmodulin using a high throughput surface plasmon resonance assay. Most of the novel calmodulin-target complexes identified have low dissociation rates (k(off) < or = 10(-3) s(-1)) and high affinity (K(D) </= 1 mum), consistent with the design of the screen. Many of the identified proteins are known to assemble in neural tissue, forming assemblies such as the spectrin scaffold and the postsynaptic density. We developed a microarray of the identified target proteins with which we can characterize the biochemistry of calmodulin for all targets in parallel. Four novel targets were verified in neural cells by co-immunoprecipitation, and four were selected for exploration of the calmodulin-binding regions. Using synthetic peptides and isothermal titration calorimetry, calmodulin binding motifs were identified in the potassium voltage-gated channel Kv6.1 (residues 474-493), calmodulin kinase-like vesicle-associated protein (residues 302-316), EF-hand domain family member A2 (residues 202-216), and phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase, type I, gamma (residues 400-415).

Dissociation of calmodulin-target peptide complexes by the lipid mediator sphingosylphosphorylcholine: implications in calcium signaling

Previously we have identified the lipid mediator sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) as the first potentially endogenous inhibitor of the ubiquitous Ca2+ sensor calmodulin (CaM) (Kovacs, E., and Liliom, K. (2008) Biochem. J. 410, 427-437). Here we give mechanistic insight into CaM inhibition by SPC, based on fluorescence stopped-flow studies with the model CaM-binding domain melittin. We demonstrate that both the peptide and SPC micelles bind to CaM in a rapid and reversible manner with comparable affinities. Furthermore, we present kinetic evidence that both species compete for the same target site on CaM, and thus SPC can be considered as a competitive inhibitor of CaM-target peptide interactions. We also show that SPC disrupts the complex of CaM and the CaM-binding domain of ryanodine receptor type 1, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1, and the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump. By interfering with these interactions, thus inhibiting the negative feedback that CaM has on Ca2+ signaling, we hypothesize that SPC could lead to Ca2+ mobilization in vivo. Hence, we suggest that the action of the sphingolipid on CaM might explain the previously recognized phenomenon that SPC liberates Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Moreover, we demonstrate that unlike traditional synthetic CaM inhibitors, SPC disrupts the complex between not only the Ca2+-saturated but also the apo form of the protein and the target peptide, suggesting a completely novel regulation for target proteins that constitutively bind CaM, such as ryanodine receptors.

Insulin promotes the association of heat shock protein 90 with the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor to dampen its Ca2+ release activity

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) is a Ca(2+) release channel that plays a pivotal role in regulating intracellular Ca(2+) levels in resting cells. Three isoforms of IP(3)Rs have been identified, and they all possess a large regulatory domain that covers about 60% of the protein. This regulation is accomplished by interaction with small molecules, posttranslational modifications, and mostly protein-protein interactions. In our search for new binding partners of the IP(3)R, we found that 90-kDa heat-shock protein (Hsp90) binds to the IP(3)R. This interaction increased on stimulation of HEK293T6.11 cells with insulin but not with G(q) protein-coupled receptor (G(q)PCR) agonists. Moreover, the Hsp90 inhibitor geldanamycin (GA) disrupted the interaction between Hsp90 and the IP(3)R. Pretreatment of HEK293T6.11 cells with GA greatly increased the intracellular Ca(2+) release induced by a G(q)PCR agonist. Insulin alone did not induce any intracellular Ca(2+) release. However, insulin diminished the intracellular Ca(2+) release induced by a G(q)PCR agonist. Interestingly, GA abolished the inhibitory effect of insulin on G(q)PCR-induced intracellular Ca(2+) release. Furthermore, in our search for a mechanistic explanation to this phenomenon, we found that inhibition of kinases activated downstream of the insulin receptor greatly increased the interaction between Hsp90 and the IP(3)R. Of greater interest, we found that the simultaneous inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin and the Src kinase almost completely disrupted the interaction between Hsp90 and the IP(3)R. These results demonstrate that insulin promotes the interaction of Hsp90 with the IP(3)R to dampen its Ca(2+) release activity by a complex mechanism involving mammalian target of rapamycin and the Src kinase.

A calmodulin antagonist reveals a calmodulin-independent interdomain interaction essential for activation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

CaM (calmodulin) has been implicated in the regulation of IP3R [IP3 (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate) receptors] and a recent report suggested that CaM tightly tethered to IP3R was essential for IP3R activation [Nadif Kasri, Torok, Galione, Garnham, Callewaert, Missiaen, Parys and De Smedt (2006) J. Biol. Chem. 281, 8332-8338]. In the present study, we confirm that a CaM-binding peptide derived from MLCK (myosin light chain kinase) inhibits IP3-evoked Ca2+ release via all three IP3R subtypes. However,inhibition by MLCK peptide is not mimicked by other CaM antagonists that effectively block regulation of IP3R by CaM. Inhibition by MLCK peptide is rapid, fully reversible and occurs under conditions where there is no CaM associated with IP3R. MLCK peptide stimulates IP3 binding to IP3R1 and to its bacterially expressed N-terminal, but not after removal of the suppressor domain (residues 1-224).We suggest that MLCK peptide mimics a sequence within the suppressor domain that is similar to a1-8-14 CaM-binding motif. The peptide may thereby unzip an interdomain interaction that is essential for IP3R activation. We conclude that CaM is not essential for IP3R activation, and that MLCK peptide is a selective antagonist of the IP3R that binds directly to the N-terminal to uncouple IP3 binding from channel gating. The results of the present study highlight the importance of the suppressor domain in IP3R activation and suggest that MLCK peptide may provide a route to novel non-competitive antagonists of IP3R.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release by reversible phosphorylation and dephosphorylation

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is a universal intracellular Ca2+-release channel. It is activated after cell stimulation and plays a crucial role in the initiation and propagation of the complex spatio-temporal Ca2+ signals that control cellular processes as different as fertilization, cell division, cell migration, differentiation, metabolism, muscle contraction, secretion, neuronal processing, and ultimately cell death. To achieve these various functions, often in a single cell, exquisite control of the Ca2+ release is needed. This review aims to highlight how protein kinases and protein phosphatases can interact with the IP3R or with associated proteins and so provide a large potential for fine tuning the Ca2+-release activity and for creating efficient Ca2+ signals in subcellular microdomains.

Regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ reuptake in porcine airway smooth muscle

Regulation of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in airway smooth muscle (ASM) during agonist stimulation involves sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) release and reuptake. The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) is key to replenishment of SR Ca(2+) stores. We examined regulation of SERCA in porcine ASM: our hypothesis was that the regulatory protein phospholamban (PLN) and the calmodulin (CaM)-CaM kinase (CaMKII) pathway (both of which are known to regulate SERCA in cardiac muscle) play a role. In porcine ASM microsomes, we examined the expression and extent of PLN phosphorylation after pharmacological inhibition of CaM (with W-7) vs. CaMKII (with KN-62/KN-93) and found that PLN is phosphorylated by CaMKII. In parallel experiments using enzymatically dissociated single ASM cells loaded with the Ca(2+) indicator fluo 3 and imaged using fluorescence microscopy, we measured the effects of PLN small interfering RNA, W-7, and KN-62 on [Ca(2+)](i) responses to ACh and direct SR stimulation. PLN small interfering RNA slowed the rate of fall of [Ca(2+)](i) transients to 1 microM ACh, as did W-7 and KN-62. The two inhibitors additionally slowed reuptake in the absence of PLN. In other cells, preexposure to W-7 or KN-62 did not prevent initiation of ACh-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations (which were previously shown to result from repetitive SR Ca(2+) release/reuptake). However, when ACh-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations reached steady state, subsequent exposure to W7 or KN-62 decreased oscillation frequency and amplitude and slowed the fall time of [Ca(2+)](i) transients, suggesting SERCA inhibition. Exposure to W-7 completely abolished ongoing ACh-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations in some cells. Preexposure to W-7 or KN-62 did not affect caffeine-induced SR Ca(2+) release, indicating that ryanodine receptor channels were not directly inhibited. These data indicate that, in porcine ASM, the CaM-CaMKII pathway regulates SR Ca(2+) reuptake, potentially through altered PLN phosphorylation.

The calponin homology domain of Vav1 associates with calmodulin and is prerequisite to T cell antigen receptor-induced calcium release in Jurkat T lymphocytes

Vav1 is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that is expressed specifically in hematopoietic cells and plays important roles in T cell development and activation. Vav1 consists of multiple structural domains so as to facilitate both its guanine nucleotide exchange activity and scaffold function following T cell antigen receptor (TCR) engagement. Previous studies demonstrated that the calponin homology (CH) domain of Vav1 is required for TCR-stimulated calcium mobilization and thus downstream activation of nuclear factor of activated T cells. However, it remained obscure how Vav1 functions in regulating calcium flux. In an effort to explore molecules interacting with Vav1, we found that calmodulin bound to Vav1 in a calcium-dependent and TCR activation-independent manner. The binding site was mapped to the CH domain of Vav1. Reconstitution of vav1-null Jurkat T cells (J.Vav1) with CH-deleted Vav1 exhibited a severe deficiency in calcium release to the same extent as that of Jurkat cells treated with the calmodulin inhibitor or J.Vav1 cells. The defect persisted even when phospholipase-Cgamma1 was fully activated, indicating a prerequisite role of Vav1 CH domain in calcium signaling. The results suggest that Vav1 and calmodulin function cooperatively to potentiate TCR-induced calcium release. This study unveiled a mechanism by which the Vav1 CH domain is involved in calcium signaling and provides insight into our understanding of the role of Vav1 in T cell activation.

The complex regulatory function of the ligand-binding domain of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptor (IP(3)R) can be divided in three functionally distinct regions: a ligand-binding domain, a modulatory domain and a channel domain. Numerous regulatory mechanisms including inter- and intra-molecular protein-protein interactions and phosphorylation events act via these domains to regulate the function of the IP(3)R. Regulation at the level of the ligand-binding domain primarily affects the affinity for IP(3). The extent of IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release (IICR) is, however, not only determined by the affinity for IP(3) but also by the effectiveness of the coupling between ligand binding and channel opening. As a result, regulation as well as malfunction of IICR may be affected by both steps in the activation mechanism. The 3D structures of the two subdomains of the ligand-binding domain have recently been determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. This allows a more detailed molecular explanation of the regulatory events situated at the ligand-binding domain of the IP(3)R. In this review, we will focus on recent structural and functional data on the ligand-binding domain that have extended and clarified the view on the molecular mechanisms of IP(3)R regulation.

Calcium and arrhythmogenesis

Triggered activity in cardiac muscle and intracellular Ca2+ have been linked in the past. However, today not only are there a number of cellular proteins that show clear Ca2+ dependence but also there are a number of arrhythmias whose mechanism appears to be linked to Ca2+-dependent processes. Thus we present a systematic review of the mechanisms of Ca2+ transport (forward excitation-contraction coupling) in the ventricular cell as well as what is known for other cardiac cell types. Second, we review the molecular nature of the proteins that are involved in this process as well as the functional consequences of both normal and abnormal Ca2+ cycling (e.g., Ca2+ waves). Finally, we review what we understand to be the role of Ca2+ cycling in various forms of arrhythmias, that is, those associated with inherited mutations and those that are acquired and resulting from reentrant excitation and/or abnormal impulse generation (e.g., triggered activity). Further solving the nature of these intricate and dynamic interactions promises to be an important area of research for a better recognition and understanding of the nature of Ca2+ and arrhythmias. Our solutions will provide a more complete understanding of the molecular basis for the targeted control of cellular calcium in the treatment and prevention of such.

Inositol trisphosphate receptor Ca2+ release channels

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptors (InsP3Rs) are a family of Ca2+ release channels localized predominately in the endoplasmic reticulum of all cell types. They function to release Ca2+ into the cytoplasm in response to InsP3 produced by diverse stimuli, generating complex local and global Ca2+ signals that regulate numerous cell physiological processes ranging from gene transcription to secretion to learning and memory. The InsP3R is a calcium-selective cation channel whose gating is regulated not only by InsP3, but by other ligands as well, in particular cytoplasmic Ca2+. Over the last decade, detailed quantitative studies of InsP3R channel function and its regulation by ligands and interacting proteins have provided new insights into a remarkable richness of channel regulation and of the structural aspects that underlie signal transduction and permeation. Here, we focus on these developments and review and synthesize the literature regarding the structure and single-channel properties of the InsP3R.

Molecular and functional characterization of inositol trisphosphate receptors during early zebrafish development

Fluctuations in cytosolic Ca(2+) are crucial for a variety of cellular processes including many aspects of development. Mobilization of intracellular Ca(2+) stores via the production of inositol trisphosphate (IP(3)) and the consequent activation of IP(3)-sensitive Ca(2+) channels is a ubiquitous means by which diverse stimuli mediate their cellular effects. Although IP(3) receptors have been well studied at fertilization, information regarding their possible involvement during subsequent development is scant. In the present study we examined the role of IP(3) receptors in early development of the zebrafish. We report the first molecular analysis of zebrafish IP(3) receptors which indicates that, like mammals, the zebrafish genome contains three distinct IP(3) receptor genes. mRNA for all isoforms was detectable at differing levels by the 64 cell stage, and IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) transients could be readily generated (by flash photolysis) in a controlled fashion throughout the cleavage period in vivo. Furthermore, we show that early blastula formation was disrupted by pharmacological blockade of IP(3) receptors or phospholipase C, by molecular inhibition of the former by injection of IRBIT (IP(3) receptor-binding protein released with IP(3)) and by depletion of thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+) stores after completion of the second cell cycle. Inhibition of Ca(2+) entry or ryanodine receptors, however, had little effect. Our work defines the importance of IP(3) receptors during early development of a genetically and optically tractable model vertebrate organism.

Free and bound intracellular calmodulin measurements in cardiac myocytes

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous Ca2+ binding protein and Ca2+-CaM activates many cellular targets and functions. While much of CaM is thought to be protein bound, quantitative data in cardiac myocytes is lacking regarding CaM location, [CaM]free and CaM redistribution during changes in [Ca2+]i. Here, we demonstrated that in adult rabbit cardiac myocytes, CaM is highly concentrated at Z-lines (confirmed by Di-8-ANEPPS staining of transverse tubules) using three different approaches: immunocytochemistry (endogenous CaM), Alexa Fluor 488 conjugate CaM (F-CaM) in both permeabilized cells (exogenous CaM) and in patch clamped intact cells (via pipette dialysis). Using 100 nM [CaM]free we washed F-CaM into permeabilized myocytes and saw a two-phase (fast and slow) CaM binding curve with a plateau after 40 min of F-CaM wash-in. We also measured myocyte [CaM]free using two modified null-point titration methods, finding [CaM]free to be 50-75 nM (which is only 1% of total [CaM]). Higher [Ca2+]i increased CaM binding especially in the nucleus and at Z-lines and significantly slowed F-CaM dissociation rate when F-CaM was washed out of permeabilized myocytes. Additionally, in both permeabilized and intact myocytes, CaM moved into the nucleus when [Ca2+]i was elevated, and this was reversible. We conclude that [CaM]free is very low in myocytes even at resting [Ca2+]i, indicating intense competition of CaM targets for free CaM. Bound CaM is relatively concentrated at Z-lines at rest but translocates significantly to the nucleus upon elevation of [Ca2+]i, which may influence activation of different targets and cellular functions.

Local InsP3-dependent perinuclear Ca2+ signaling in cardiac myocyte excitation-transcription coupling

Previous work showed that calmodulin (CaM) and Ca2+-CaM-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) are somehow involved in cardiac hypertrophic signaling, that inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3Rs) in ventricular myocytes are mainly in the nuclear envelope, where they associate with CaMKII, and that class II histone deacetylases (e.g., HDAC5) suppress hypertrophic gene transcription. Furthermore, HDAC phosphorylation in response to neurohumoral stimuli that induce hypertrophy, such as endothelin-1 (ET-1), activates HDAC nuclear export, thereby regulating cardiac myocyte transcription. Here we demonstrate a detailed mechanistic convergence of these 3 issues in adult ventricular myocytes. We show that ET-1, which activates plasmalemmal G protein-coupled receptors and InsP3 production, elicits local nuclear envelope Ca2+ release via InsP3R. This local Ca2+ release activates nuclear CaMKII, which triggers HDAC5 phosphorylation and nuclear export (derepressing transcription). Remarkably, this Ca2+-dependent pathway cannot be activated by the global Ca2+ transients that cause contraction at each heartbeat. This novel local Ca2+ signaling in excitation-transcription coupling is analogous to but separate (and insulated) from that involved in excitation-contraction coupling. Thus, myocytes can distinguish simultaneous local and global Ca2+ signals involved in contractile activation from those targeting gene expression.

Endogenously Bound Calmodulin Is Essential for the Function of the Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous Ca2+ sensor protein that plays an important role in regulating a large number of Ca2+ channels, including the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R). Despite many efforts, the exact mechanism by which CaM regulates the IP3R still remains elusive. Here we show, using unidirectional 45Ca2+ flux experiments on permeabilized L15 fibroblasts and COS-1 cells, that endogenously bound CaM is essential for the proper activation of the IP3R. Removing endogenously bound CaM by titration with a high affinity (pM) CaM-binding peptide derived from smooth muscle myosin light-chain kinase (MLCK peptide) strongly inhibited IP3-induced Ca2+ release. This inhibition was concentration- and time-dependent. Removing endogenously bound CaM affected the maximum release capacity but not its sensitivity to IP3. A mutant peptide with a strongly reduced affinity for CaM did not affect inhibited IP3-induced Ca2+ release. Furthermore, the inhibition by the MLCK peptide was fully reversible. Re-adding exogenous CaM, but not CaM1234, reactivated the IP3R. These data suggest that, by using a specific CaM-binding peptide, we removed endogenously bound CaM from a high affinity CaM-binding site on the IP3R, and this resulted in a complete loss of the IP3R activity. Our data support a new model whereby CaM is constitutively associated with the IP3R and functions as an essential subunit for proper functioning of the IP3R.

Would modulation of intracellular Ca2+ be antiarrhythmic?

Under several types of conditions, reversal of steps of excitation-contraction coupling (RECC) can give rise to nondriven electrical activity. In this review we explore those conditions for several cardiac cell types (SA, atrial, Purkinje, ventricular cells). We find that abnormal spontaneous Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores, aberrant Ca2+ influx from sarcolemmal channels or abnormal Ca2+ surges in nonuniform muscle can be the initiators of the RECC. Often, with such increases in Ca2+, spontaneous Ca2+ waves occur and lead to membrane depolarizations. Because the change in membrane voltage is produced by Ca2+-dependent changes in ion channel function, we also review here what is known about the molecular interaction of Ca2+ and several Ca2+-dependent processes, including the intracellular Ca2+ release channels implicated in the genetic basis of some forms of human arrhythmias. Finally, we review what is known about the effectiveness of several agents in modifying such Ca2+-dependent arrhythmias.

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

The inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R) are the intracellular calcium (Ca2+) release channels that play a key role in Ca2+ signaling in cells. Three InsP3R isoforms-InsP3R type 1 (InsP3R1), InsP3R type 2 (InsP3R2), and InsP3R type 3 (InsP3R3) are expressed in mammals. A single InsP3R isoform is expressed in Drosophila melanogaster (DmInsP3R) and Caenorhabditis elegans (CeInsP3R). The progress made during last decade towards understanding the function and the properties of the InsP3R is briefly reviewed in this chapter. The main emphasis is on studies that revealed structural determinants responsible for the ligand recognition by the InsP3R, ion permeability of the InsP3R, modulation of the InsP3R by cytosolic Ca2+, ATP and PKA phosphorylation and on the recently identified InsP3R-binding partners. The main focus is on the InsP3R1, but the recent information about properties of other InsP3R isoforms is also discussed.

Effect of calmodulin on ginseng saponin-induced Ca2+-Activated CI-channel activation inXenopus laevis oocytes

We previously demonstrated the ability of ginseng saponins (active ingredients of Panax ginseng) to enhance Ca2+-activated Cl- current. The mechanism for this ginseng saponin-induced enhancement was proposed to be the release of Ca2+ from IP3-sensitive intracellular stores through the activation of PTX-insensitive Galpha(q/11) proteins and PLC pathway. Recent studies have shown that calmodulin (CaM) regulates IP3 receptor-mediated Ca2+ release in both Ca2+-dependent and -independent manner. In the present study, we have investigated the effects of CaM on ginseng saponin-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current responses in Xenopus oocytes. Intraoocyte injection of CaM inhibited ginseng saponin-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current enhancement, whereas co-injection of calmidazolium, a CaM antagonist, with CaM blocked CaM action. The inhibitory effect of CaM on ginseng saponin-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current enhancement was dose- and time-dependent, with an IC50 of 14.9 +/- 3.5 microM. The inhibitory effect of CaM on saponin's activity was maximal after 6 h of intraoocyte injection of CaM, and after 48 h the activity of saponin recovered to control level. The half-recovery time was calculated to be 16.7 +/- 4.3 h. Intraoocyte injection of CaM inhibited Ca2+-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current enhancement and also attenuated IP3-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current enhancement. Ca2+/CaM kinase II inhibitor did not inhibit CaM-caused attenuation of ginseng saponin-induced Ca2+-activated Cl- current enhancement. These results suggest that CaM regulates ginseng saponin effect on Ca2+-activated Cl current enhancement via Ca2+-independent manner.

Molecular Cloning of Mouse Type 2 and Type 3 Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors and Identification of a Novel Type 2 Receptor Splice Variant

We isolated cDNAs encoding type 2 and type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptors (IP(3)R2 and IP(3)R3, respectively) from mouse lung and found a novel alternative splicing segment, SI(m2), at 176-208 of IP(3)R2. The long form (IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(+)) was dominant, but the short form (IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-)) was detected in all tissues examined. IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-) has neither IP(3) binding activity nor Ca(2+) releasing activity. In addition to its reticular distribution, IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(+) is present in the form of clusters in the endoplasmic reticulum of resting COS-7 cells, and after ATP or Ca(2+) ionophore stimulation, most of the IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(+) is in clusters. IP(3)R3 is localized uniformly on the endoplasmic reticulum of resting cells and forms clusters after ATP or Ca(2+) ionophore stimulation. IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-) does not form clusters in either resting or stimulated cells. IP(3) binding-deficient site-directed mutants of IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(+) and IP(3)R3 fail to form clusters, indicating that IP(3) binding is involved in the cluster formation by these isoforms. Coexpression of IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-) prevents stimulus-induced IP(3)R clustering, suggesting that IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-) functions as a negative coordinator of stimulus-induced IP(3)R clustering. Expression of IP(3)R2 SI(m2)(-) in CHO-K1 cells significantly reduced ATP-induced Ca(2+) entry, but not Ca(2+) release, suggesting that the novel splice variant of IP(3)R2 specifically influences the dynamics of the sustained phase of Ca(2+) signals.

Myristoyl moiety of HIV Nef is involved in regulation of the interaction with calmodulin in vivo

Human immunodeficiency virus Nef is a myristoylated protein expressed early in infection by HIV. In addition to the well known down-regulation of the cell surface receptors CD4 and MHCI, Nef is able to alter T-cell signaling pathways. The ability to alter the cellular signaling pathways suggests that Nef can associate with signaling proteins. In the present report, we show that Nef can interact with calmodulin, the major intracellular receptor for calcium. Coimmunoprecipitation analyses with lysates from the NIH3T3 cell line constitutively expressing the native HIV-1 Nef protein revealed the presence of a stable Nef-calmodulin complex. When lysates from NIH3T3 cells were incubated with calmodulin-agarose beads in the presence of CaCl(2) or EGTA, calcium ion drastically enhanced the interaction between Nef and calmodulin, suggesting that the binding is under the influence of Ca(2+) signaling. Glutathione S-transferase-Nef fusion protein bound directly to calmodulin with high affinity. Using synthetic peptides based on the N-terminal sequence of Nef, we determined that within a 20-amino-acid N-terminal basic domain was sufficient for calmodulin binding. Furthermore, the myristoylated peptide bound to calmodulin with higher affinity than nonmyris-toylated form. Thus, the N-terminal myristoylation domain of Nef plays an important role in interacting with calmodulin. This domain is highly conserved in several HIV-1 Nef variants and resembles the N-terminal domain of NAP-22/CAP23, a myristoylated calmodulin-binder. These results for the interaction between HIV Nef and calmodulin in the cells suggested that the Nef might interfere with intracellular Ca(2+) signaling through calmodulin-mediated interactions in infected cells.

Structural insights into the regulatory mechanism of IP3 receptor

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)R) are intracellular Ca(2+) release channels whose opening requires binding of two intracellular messengers IP(3) and Ca(2+). The regulation of IP(3)R function has also been shown to involve a variety of cellular proteins. Recent biochemical and structural analyses have deepened our understanding of how the IP(3)-operated Ca(2+) channel functions. Specifically, the atomic resolution structure of the IP(3)-binding region has provided a sound structural basis for the receptor interaction with the natural ligand. Electron microscopic studies have also shed light on the overall shape of the tetrameric receptor. This review aims to provide comprehensive overview of the current information available on the structure and function relationship of IP(3)R.

Modulation of mammalian inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor isoforms by calcium: a role of calcium sensor region

In the accompanying article, we compared main functional properties of the three mammalian inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R) isoforms. In this article we focused on modulation of mammalian InsP3R isoforms by cytosolic Ca2+. We found that: 1), when recorded in the presence of 2 microM InsP3 and 0.5 mM ATP all three mammalian InsP3R isoforms display bell-shaped Ca2+ dependence in physiological range of Ca2+ concentrations (pCa 8-5); 2), in the same experimental conditions InsP3R3 is most sensitive to modulation by Ca2+ (peak at 107 nM Ca2+), followed by InsP3R2 (peak at 154 nM Ca2+), and then by InsP3R1 (peak at 257 nM Ca2+); 3), increase in ATP concentration to 5 mM had no significant effect of Ca2+ dependence of InsP3R1 and InsP3R2; 4), increase in ATP concentration to 5 mM converted Ca2+ dependence of InsP3R3 from "narrow" shape to "square" shape; 5), ATP-induced change in the shape of InsP3R3 Ca2+ dependence was mainly due to an >200-fold reduction in the apparent affinity of the Ca2+-inhibitory site; 6), the apparent Ca2+ affinity of the Ca2+ sensor region (Cas) determined in biochemical experiments is equal to 0.23 microM Ca2+ for RT1-Cas, 0.16 microM Ca2+ for RT2-Cas, and 0.10 microM Ca2+ for RT3-Cas; and 7), Ca2+ sensitivity of InsP3R1 and InsP3R3 isoforms recorded in the presence of 2 microM InsP3 and 0.5 mM ATP or 2 microM InsP3 and 5 mM ATP can be exchanged by swapping their Cas regions. Obtained results provide novel information about functional properties of mammalian InsP3R isoforms and support the importance of the Ca2+ sensor region (Cas) in determining the sensitivity of InsP3R isoforms to modulation by Ca2+.

Ca2+Regulation of Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate Receptors: Can Ca2+Function without Calmodulin?

All Ca(2+) channels are regulated by Ca(2+), a feature that allows them to respond to their own activity and to the activities of neighboring Ca(2+) channels. Inhibition by Ca(2+) protects cells from potentially hazardous increases in cytosolic [Ca(2+)], and stimulation can mediate facilitation and regenerative propagation of Ca(2+) signals. Calmodulin is emerging as a key player in regulation of Ca(2+) channels by Ca(2+), but its role is more complex and more beautiful than might have been imagined.