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Modulation of L-type calcium channels in Alzheimer's disease: A potential therapeutic target. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 21:11-20. [PMID: 36514335 PMCID: PMC9719069 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.11.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium plays a fundamental role in various signaling pathways and cellular processes in the human organism. In the nervous system, voltage-gated calcium channels such as L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) are critical elements in mediating neurotransmitter release, synaptic integration and plasticity. Dysfunction of LTCCs has been implicated in both aging and Alzheimer's Disease (AD), constituting a key component of calcium hypothesis of AD. As such, LTCCs are a promising drug target in AD. However, due to their structural and functional complexity, the mechanisms by which LTCCs contribute to AD are still unclear. In this review, we briefly summarize the structure, function, and modulation of LTCCs that are the backbone for understanding pathological processes involving LTCCs. We suggest targeting molecular pathways up-regulating LTCCs in AD may be a more promising approach, given the diverse physiological functions of LTCCs and the ineffectiveness of LTCC blockers in clinical studies.
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Key Words
- AC, adenylyl cyclase
- AD, Alzheimer’s Disease
- AHP, afterhyperpolarization
- AR, adrenoceptor
- Aging
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Aβ, β-amyloid
- BIN1, bridging integrator 1
- BTZs, benzothiazepines
- CDF, calcium-dependent facilitation
- CDI, calcium-dependent inactivation
- CaMKII, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II
- DHP, dihydropyridine
- L-type calcium channel
- LTCC, L-type calcium channels
- LTD, long-term depression
- LTP, long-term potentiation
- NFT, neurofibrillary tangles
- NMDAR, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor
- PAA, phenylalkylamines
- PKA, protein kinase A
- PKC, protein kinase C
- PKG, protein kinase G
- SFK, Src family kinase
- Tau
- VSD, voltage sensing domain
- β-Amyloid
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Van Hook MJ, Nawy S, Thoreson WB. Voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels of neurons in the vertebrate retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 72:100760. [PMID: 31078724 PMCID: PMC6739185 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize studies investigating the types and distribution of voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels in the different classes of retinal neurons: rods, cones, horizontal cells, bipolar cells, amacrine cells, interplexiform cells, and ganglion cells. We discuss differences among cell subtypes within these major cell classes, as well as differences among species, and consider how different ion channels shape the responses of different neurons. For example, even though second-order bipolar and horizontal cells do not typically generate fast sodium-dependent action potentials, many of these cells nevertheless possess fast sodium currents that can enhance their kinetic response capabilities. Ca2+ channel activity can also shape response kinetics as well as regulating synaptic release. The L-type Ca2+ channel subtype, CaV1.4, expressed in photoreceptor cells exhibits specific properties matching the particular needs of these cells such as limited inactivation which allows sustained channel activity and maintained synaptic release in darkness. The particular properties of K+ and Cl- channels in different retinal neurons shape resting membrane potentials, response kinetics and spiking behavior. A remaining challenge is to characterize the specific distributions of ion channels in the more than 100 individual cell types that have been identified in the retina and to describe how these particular ion channels sculpt neuronal responses to assist in the processing of visual information by the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Van Hook
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Scott Nawy
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Department Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience(2), University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Wallace B Thoreson
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Department Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience(2), University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Pangrsic T, Singer JH, Koschak A. Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels: Key Players in Sensory Coding in the Retina and the Inner Ear. Physiol Rev 2019; 98:2063-2096. [PMID: 30067155 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00030.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium influx through voltage-gated Ca (CaV) channels is the first step in synaptic transmission. This review concerns CaV channels at ribbon synapses in primary sense organs and their specialization for efficient coding of stimuli in the physical environment. Specifically, we describe molecular, biochemical, and biophysical properties of the CaV channels in sensory receptor cells of the retina, cochlea, and vestibular apparatus, and we consider how such properties might change over the course of development and contribute to synaptic plasticity. We pay particular attention to factors affecting the spatial arrangement of CaV channels at presynaptic, ribbon-type active zones, because the spatial relationship between CaV channels and release sites has been shown to affect synapse function critically in a number of systems. Finally, we review identified synaptopathies affecting sensory systems and arising from dysfunction of L-type, CaV1.3, and CaV1.4 channels or their protein modulatory elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Pangrsic
- Synaptic Physiology of Mammalian Vestibular Hair Cells Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen and Auditory Neuroscience Group, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine , Göttingen, Germany ; Department of Biology, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland ; and Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Innsbruck , Innsbruck , Austria
| | - Joshua H Singer
- Synaptic Physiology of Mammalian Vestibular Hair Cells Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen and Auditory Neuroscience Group, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine , Göttingen, Germany ; Department of Biology, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland ; and Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Innsbruck , Innsbruck , Austria
| | - Alexandra Koschak
- Synaptic Physiology of Mammalian Vestibular Hair Cells Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen and Auditory Neuroscience Group, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine , Göttingen, Germany ; Department of Biology, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland ; and Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Innsbruck , Innsbruck , Austria
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Grassmeyer JJ, Thoreson WB. Synaptic Ribbon Active Zones in Cone Photoreceptors Operate Independently from One Another. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:198. [PMID: 28744203 PMCID: PMC5504102 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cone photoreceptors depolarize in darkness to release glutamate-laden synaptic vesicles. Essential to release is the synaptic ribbon, a structure that helps organize active zones by clustering vesicles near proteins that mediate exocytosis, including voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Cone terminals have many ribbon-style active zones at which second-order neurons receive input. We asked whether there are functionally significant differences in local Ca2+ influx among ribbons in individual cones. We combined confocal Ca2+ imaging to measure Ca2+ influx at individual ribbons and patch clamp recordings to record whole-cell ICa in salamander cones. We found that the voltage for half-maximal activation (V50) of whole cell ICa in cones averaged −38.1 mV ± 3.05 mV (standard deviation [SD]), close to the cone membrane potential in darkness of ca. −40 mV. Ca2+ signals at individual ribbons varied in amplitude from one another and showed greater variability in V50 values than whole-cell ICa, suggesting that Ca2+ signals can differ significantly among ribbons within cones. After accounting for potential sources of technical variability in measurements of Ca2+ signals and for contributions from cone-to-cone differences in ICa, we found that the variability in V50 values for ribbon Ca2+ signals within individual cones showed a SD of 2.5 mV. Simulating local differences in Ca2+ channel activity at two ribbons by shifting the V50 value of ICa by ±2.5 mV (1 SD) about the mean suggests that when the membrane depolarizes to −40 mV, two ribbons could experience differences in Ca2+ influx of >45%. Further evidence that local Ca2+ changes at ribbons can be regulated independently was obtained in experiments showing that activation of inhibitory feedback from horizontal cells (HCs) to cones in paired recordings changed both amplitude and V50 of Ca2+ signals at individual ribbons. By varying the strength of synaptic output, differences in voltage dependence and amplitude of Ca2+ signals at individual ribbons shape the information transmitted from cones to downstream neurons in vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin J Grassmeyer
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, United States.,Truhlsen Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, United States
| | - Wallace B Thoreson
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, United States.,Truhlsen Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, United States
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Haumann I, Junghans D, Anstötz M, Frotscher M. Presynaptic localization of GluK5 in rod photoreceptors suggests a novel function of high affinity glutamate receptors in the mammalian retina. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172967. [PMID: 28235022 PMCID: PMC5325551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Kainate receptors mediate glutamatergic signaling through both pre- and presynaptic receptors. Here, we studied the expression of the high affinity kainate receptor GluK5 in the mouse retina. Double-immunofluoresence labeling and electron microscopic analysis revealed a presynaptic localization of GluK5 in the outer plexiform layer. Unexpectedly, we found GluK5 almost exclusively localized to the presynaptic ribbon of photoreceptor terminals. Moreover, in GluK5-deficient mutant mice the structural integrity of synaptic ribbons was severely altered pointing to a novel function of GluK5 in organizing synaptic ribbons in the presynaptic terminals of rod photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Haumann
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (MF); (IH)
| | - Dirk Junghans
- Institute of Embryology and Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Max Anstötz
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Frotscher
- Institute for Structural Neurobiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (MF); (IH)
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Lee A, Wang S, Williams B, Hagen J, Scheetz TE, Haeseleer F. Characterization of Cav1.4 complexes (α11.4, β2, and α2δ4) in HEK293T cells and in the retina. J Biol Chem 2014; 290:1505-21. [PMID: 25468907 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.607465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In photoreceptor synaptic terminals, voltage-gated Cav1.4 channels mediate Ca(2+) signals required for transmission of visual stimuli. Like other high voltage-activated Cav channels, Cav1.4 channels are composed of a main pore-forming Cav1.4 α1 subunit and auxiliary β and α2δ subunits. Of the four distinct classes of β and α2δ, β2 and α2δ4 are thought to co-assemble with Cav1.4 α1 subunits in photoreceptors. However, an understanding of the functional properties of this combination of Cav subunits is lacking. Here, we provide evidence that Cav1.4 α1, β2, and α2δ4 contribute to Cav1.4 channel complexes in the retina and describe their properties in electrophysiological recordings. In addition, we identified a variant of β2, named here β2X13, which, along with β2a, is present in photoreceptor terminals. Cav1.4 α1, β2, and α2δ4 were coimmunoprecipitated from lysates of transfected HEK293 cells and mouse retina and were found to interact in the outer plexiform layer of the retina containing the photoreceptor synaptic terminals, by proximity ligation assays. In whole-cell patch clamp recordings of transfected HEK293T cells, channels (Cav1.4 α1 + β2X13) containing α2δ4 exhibited weaker voltage-dependent activation than those with α2δ1. Moreover, compared with channels (Cav1.4 α1 + α2δ4) with β2a, β2X13-containing channels exhibited greater voltage-dependent inactivation. The latter effect was specific to Cav1.4 because it was not seen for Cav1.2 channels. Our results provide the first detailed functional analysis of the Cav1.4 subunits that form native photoreceptor Cav1.4 channels and indicate potential heterogeneity in these channels conferred by β2a and β2X13 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Lee
- From the Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Otolaryngology Head-Neck Surgery, and Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Shiyi Wang
- From the Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Otolaryngology Head-Neck Surgery, and Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Brittany Williams
- From the Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Otolaryngology Head-Neck Surgery, and Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Jussara Hagen
- From the Departments of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Otolaryngology Head-Neck Surgery, and Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Todd E Scheetz
- the Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, and
| | - Françoise Haeseleer
- the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
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Knoflach D, Kerov V, Sartori SB, Obermair GJ, Schmuckermair C, Liu X, Sothilingam V, Garrido MG, Baker SA, Glösmann M, Schicker K, Seeliger M, Lee A, Koschak A. Cav1.4 IT mouse as model for vision impairment in human congenital stationary night blindness type 2. Channels (Austin) 2013; 7:503-13. [PMID: 24051672 PMCID: PMC4042485 DOI: 10.4161/chan.26368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the CACNA1F gene encoding the Cav1.4 Ca (2+) channel are associated with X-linked congenital stationary night blindness type 2 (CSNB2). Despite the increasing knowledge about the functional behavior of mutated channels in heterologous systems, the pathophysiological mechanisms that result in vision impairment remain to be elucidated. This work provides a thorough functional characterization of the novel IT mouse line that harbors the gain-of-function mutation I745T reported in a New Zealand CSNB2 family. (1) Electroretinographic recordings in IT mice permitted a direct comparison with human data. Our data supported the hypothesis that a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage-dependence of channel activation-as seen in the IT gain-of-function mutant (2)-may reduce the dynamic range of photoreceptor activity. Morphologically, the retinal outer nuclear layer in adult IT mutants was reduced in size and cone outer segments appeared shorter. The organization of the outer plexiform layer was disrupted, and synaptic structures of photoreceptors had a variable, partly immature, appearance. The associated visual deficiency was substantiated in behavioral paradigms. The IT mouse line serves as a specific model for the functional phenotype of human CSNB2 patients with gain-of-function mutations and may help to further understand the dysfunction in CSNB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Knoflach
- Medical University Vienna; Centre for Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Neurophysiology and Pharmacology; Vienna, Austria
| | - Vasily Kerov
- University of Iowa; Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics; Iowa City, IA USA
- University of Iowa; Department of Biochemistry; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Simone B Sartori
- University of Innsbruck; Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine; Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gerald J Obermair
- Medical University Innsbruck; Division of Physiology; Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Schmuckermair
- University of Innsbruck; Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine; Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Xiaoni Liu
- University of Iowa; Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Vithiyanjali Sothilingam
- University of Tübingen; Institute for Ophthalmic Research; Centre for Ophthalmology; Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration; Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marina Garcia Garrido
- University of Tübingen; Institute for Ophthalmic Research; Centre for Ophthalmology; Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration; Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sheila A Baker
- University of Iowa; Department of Biochemistry; Iowa City, IA USA
| | | | - Klaus Schicker
- Medical University Vienna; Centre for Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Neurophysiology and Pharmacology; Vienna, Austria
| | - Mathias Seeliger
- University of Tübingen; Institute for Ophthalmic Research; Centre for Ophthalmology; Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration; Tübingen, Germany
| | - Amy Lee
- University of Iowa; Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Alexandra Koschak
- Medical University Vienna; Centre for Physiology and Pharmacology; Department of Neurophysiology and Pharmacology; Vienna, Austria
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Liu X, Kerov V, Haeseleer F, Majumder A, Artemyev N, Baker SA, Lee A. Dysregulation of Ca(v)1.4 channels disrupts the maturation of photoreceptor synaptic ribbons in congenital stationary night blindness type 2. Channels (Austin) 2013; 7:514-23. [PMID: 24064553 PMCID: PMC4042486 DOI: 10.4161/chan.26376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene encoding Cav1.4, CACNA1F, are associated with visual disorders including X-linked incomplete congenital stationary night blindness type 2 (CSNB2). In mice lacking Cav1.4 channels, there are defects in the development of “ribbon” synapses formed between photoreceptors (PRs) and second-order neurons. However, many CSNB2 mutations disrupt the function rather than expression of Cav1.4 channels. Whether defects in PR synapse development due to altered Cav1.4 function are common features contributing to the pathogenesis of CSNB2 is unknown. To resolve this issue, we profiled changes in the subcellular distribution of Cav1.4 channels and synapse morphology during development in wild-type (WT) mice and mouse models of CSNB2. Using Cav1.4-selective antibodies, we found that Cav1.4 channels associate with ribbon precursors early in development and are concentrated at both rod and cone PR synapses in the mature retina. In mouse models of CSNB2 in which the voltage-dependence of Cav1.4 activation is either enhanced (Cav1.4I756T) or inhibited (CaBP4 KO), the initial stages of PR synaptic ribbon formation are largely unaffected. However, after postnatal day 13, many PR ribbons retain the immature morphology. This synaptic abnormality corresponds in severity to the defect in synaptic transmission in the adult mutant mice, suggesting that lack of sufficient mature synapses contributes to vision impairment in Cav1.4I756T and CaBP4 KO mice. Our results demonstrate the importance of proper Cav1.4 function for efficient PR synapse maturation, and that dysregulation of Cav1.4 channels in CSNB2 may have synaptopathic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoni Liu
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA; Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Neurology; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Vasily Kerov
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA; Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Neurology; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA; Department of Biochemistry; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Françoise Haeseleer
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics; University of Washington; Seattle, WA USA
| | - Anurima Majumder
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Nikolai Artemyev
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Sheila A Baker
- Department of Biochemistry; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Amy Lee
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA; Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Neurology; University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA USA
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Huang CCY, Ko ML, Ko GYP. A new functional role for mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in the circadian regulation of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in avian cone photoreceptors. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73315. [PMID: 23977383 PMCID: PMC3747127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the retina, the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) are responsible for neurotransmitter release from photoreceptors and are under circadian regulation. Both the current densities and protein expression of L-VGCCs are significantly higher at night than during the day. However, the underlying mechanisms of circadian regulation of L-VGCCs in the retina are not completely understood. In this study, we demonstrated that the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin complex (mTORC) signaling pathway participated in the circadian phase-dependent modulation of L-VGCCs. The activities of the mTOR cascade, from mTORC1 to its downstream targets, displayed circadian oscillations throughout the course of a day. Disruption of mTORC1 signaling dampened the L-VGCC current densities, as well as the protein expression of L-VGCCs at night. The decrease of L-VGCCs at night by mTORC1 inhibition was in part due to a reduction of L-VGCCα1 subunit translocation from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. Finally, we showed that mTORC1 was downstream of the phosphatidylionositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) signaling pathway. Taken together, mTORC1 signaling played a role in the circadian regulation of L-VGCCs, in part through regulation of ion channel trafficking and translocation, which brings to light a new functional role for mTORC1: the modulation of ion channel activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Chia-Yu Huang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael Lee Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Gladys Yi-Ping Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Haeseleer F, Sokal I, Gregory FD, Lee A. Protein phosphatase 2A dephosphorylates CaBP4 and regulates CaBP4 function. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2013; 54:1214-26. [PMID: 23341017 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-11319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE CaBP4 is a neuronal Ca(2+)-binding protein that is expressed in the retina and in the cochlea, and is essential for normal photoreceptor synaptic function. CaBP4 is phosphorylated by protein kinase C zeta (PKCζ) in the retina at serine 37, which affects its interaction with and modulation of voltage-gated Ca(v)1 Ca(2+) channels. In this study, we investigated the potential role and functional significance of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) in CaBP4 dephosphorylation. METHODS The effect of protein phosphatase inhibitors, light, and overexpression of PP2A subunits on CaBP4 dephosphorylation was measured in in vitro assays. Pull-down experiments using retinal or transfected HEK293 cell lysates were used to investigate the association between CaBP4 and PP2A subunits. Electrophysiologic recordings of cotransfected HEK293 cells were performed to analyze the effect of CaBP4 dephosphorylation in modulating Ca(v)1.3 currents. RESULTS PP2A inhibitors, okadaic acid (OA), and fostriecin, but not PP1 selective inhibitors, NIPP-1, and inhibitor 2, block CaBP4 dephosphorylation in retinal lysates. Increased phosphatase activity in light-dependent conditions reverses phosphorylation of CaBP4 by PKCζ. In HEK293 cells, overexpression of PP2A enhances the rate of dephosphorylation of CaBP4. In addition, inhibition of protein phosphatase activity by OA increases CaBP4 phosphorylation and potentiates the modulatory effect of CaBP4 on Ca(v)1.3 Ca(2+) channels in HEK293T cells. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that CaBP4 is dephosphorylated by PP2A in the retina. Our findings reveal a novel role for protein phosphatases in regulating CaBP4 function in the retina, which may fine tune presynaptic Ca(2+) signals at the photoreceptor synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Françoise Haeseleer
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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The dynamic architecture of photoreceptor ribbon synapses: cytoskeletal, extracellular matrix, and intramembrane proteins. Vis Neurosci 2012; 28:453-71. [PMID: 22192503 DOI: 10.1017/s0952523811000356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors possess ribbon synapses that assist in the transmission of graded light responses to second-order bipolar and horizontal cells of the vertebrate retina. Proper functioning of the synapse requires the juxtaposition of presynaptic release sites immediately adjacent to postsynaptic receptors. In this review, we focus on the synaptic, cytoskeletal, and extracellular matrix proteins that help to organize photoreceptor ribbon synapses in the outer plexiform layer. We examine the proteins that foster the clustering of release proteins, calcium channels, and synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic terminals of photoreceptors adjacent to their postsynaptic contacts. Although many proteins interact with one another in the presynaptic terminal and synaptic cleft, these protein-protein interactions do not create a static and immutable structure. Instead, photoreceptor ribbon synapses are remarkably dynamic, exhibiting structural changes on both rapid and slow time scales.
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12
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CaV1.3 L-type Ca2+ channels modulate depression-like behaviour in mice independent of deaf phenotype. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2010; 13:499-513. [PMID: 19664321 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145709990368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence suggests that voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channels can modulate affective behaviour. We therefore explored the role of CaV1.3 L-type Ca2+ channels in depression- and anxiety-like behaviours using CaV1.3-deficient mice (CaV1.3-/-). We showed that CaV1.3-/- mice displayed less immobility in the forced swim test as well as in the tail suspension test, indicating an antidepressant-like phenotype. Locomotor activity in the home cage or a novel open-field test was not influenced. In the elevated plus maze (EPM), CaV1.3-/- mice entered the open arms more frequently and spent more time there indicating an anxiolytic-like phenotype which was, however, not supported in the stress-induced hyperthermia test. By performing parallel experiments in Claudin 14 knockout mice (Cldn14-/-), which like CaV1.3-/- mice are congenitally deaf, an influence of deafness on the antidepressant-like phenotype could be ruled out. On the other hand, a similar EPM behaviour indicative of an anxiolytic phenotype was also found in the Cldn14-/- animals. Using electroretinography and visual behavioural tasks we demonstrated that at least in mice, CaV1.3 channels do not significantly contribute to visual function. However, marked morphological changes were revealed in synaptic ribbons in the outer plexiform layer of CaV1.3-/- retinas by immunohistochemistry suggesting a possible role of this channel type in structural plasticity at the ribbon synapse. Taken together, our findings indicate that CaV1.3 L-type Ca2+ channels modulate depression-like behaviour but are not essential for visual function. The findings raise the possibility that selective modulation of CaV1.3 channels could be a promising new therapeutic concept for the treatment of mood disorders.
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Holzhausen LC, Lewis AA, Cheong KK, Brockerhoff SE. Differential role for synaptojanin 1 in rod and cone photoreceptors. J Comp Neurol 2010; 517:633-44. [PMID: 19827152 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Synaptojanin 1 (SynJ1) is a polyphosphoinositide phosphatase involved in clathrin-mediated endocytosis in conventional synapses. Studies with the zebrafish mutant nrc have revealed that loss of SynJ1 also affects cone photoreceptor ribbon synapses, causing pronounced morphological and functional abnormalities. In this study we continue to examine the role of SynJ1 in photoreceptors. Using a newly generated antibody specific for zebrafish SynJ1, we localized this protein predominantly to cone photoreceptors. We then used blastula stage transplantation experiments to demonstrate that rods from nrc mutants lacking SynJ1 develop normally and do not have the pronounced morphological defects detected in cones. Given the known involvement of SynJ1 in synaptic vesicle endocytosis, we hypothesize that rods and cones use distinct mechanisms for vesicle recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars C Holzhausen
- University of Washington, Department of Biochemistry, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
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14
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15
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Haeseleer F. Interaction and colocalization of CaBP4 and Unc119 (MRG4) in photoreceptors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2008; 49:2366-75. [PMID: 18296658 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.07-1166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the interaction of the neuron-specific protein CaBP4 with the synaptic photoreceptor protein Unc119 homolog (MRG4). METHODS The interaction of CaBP4 and Unc119 was studied using affinity chromatography, yeast two-hybrid system, coimmunoprecipitation, and gel overlay assay. The colocalization of CaBP4 and Unc119 was analyzed using immunohistochemistry. Unc119, CaBP4, and synaptic proteins were examined in photoreceptors using immunohistochemistry and in synaptic tangential sections of flatmounted frozen retinas using Western blot analysis. RESULTS Biochemical evidence supported the interaction of CaBP4 with Unc119. CaBP4 and Unc119 colocalized in the photoreceptor synapse of adult retina and during postnatal retinal development. A reduction in Unc119 levels was observed in the photoreceptor terminals of CaBP4-knockout mice compared with wild-type mice and was higher than the reduction of other synaptic proteins. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence for the interaction of CaBP4 with Unc119 at the photoreceptor synapse. This interaction suggests a functional relationship between CaBP4 and Unc119, further supporting a role for these proteins in neurotransmitter release and in the maintenance of the photoreceptor synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Françoise Haeseleer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
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16
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Thoreson WB. Kinetics of synaptic transmission at ribbon synapses of rods and cones. Mol Neurobiol 2007; 36:205-23. [PMID: 17955196 PMCID: PMC2474471 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-007-0019-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2007] [Accepted: 05/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The ribbon synapse is a specialized structure that allows photoreceptors to sustain the continuous release of vesicles for hours upon hours and years upon years but also respond rapidly to momentary changes in illumination. Light responses of cones are faster than those of rods and, mirroring this difference, synaptic transmission from cones is also faster than transmission from rods. This review evaluates the various factors that regulate synaptic kinetics and contribute to kinetic differences between rod and cone synapses. Presynaptically, the release of glutamate-laden synaptic vesicles is regulated by properties of the synaptic proteins involved in exocytosis, influx of calcium through calcium channels, calcium release from intracellular stores, diffusion of calcium to the release site, calcium buffering, and extrusion of calcium from the cytoplasm. The rate of vesicle replenishment also limits the ability of the synapse to follow changes in release. Post-synaptic factors include properties of glutamate receptors, dynamics of glutamate diffusion through the cleft, and glutamate uptake by glutamate transporters. Thus, multiple synaptic mechanisms help to shape the responses of second-order horizontal and bipolar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace B Thoreson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 4th floor, Durham Research Center, 985840 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5840, USA.
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17
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Lee A, Jimenez A, Cui G, Haeseleer F. Phosphorylation of the Ca2+-binding protein CaBP4 by protein kinase C zeta in photoreceptors. J Neurosci 2007; 27:12743-54. [PMID: 18003854 PMCID: PMC2703458 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4264-07.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 10/09/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CaBP4 is a calmodulin-like neuronal calcium-binding protein that is crucial for the development and/or maintenance of the cone and rod photoreceptor synapse. Previously, we showed that CaBP4 directly regulates Ca(v)1 L-type Ca2+ channels, which are essential for normal photoreceptor synaptic transmission. Here, we show that the function of CaBP4 is regulated by phosphorylation. CaBP4 is phosphorylated by protein kinase C zeta (PKCzeta) at serine 37 both in vitro and in the retina and colocalizes with PKCzeta in photoreceptors. CaBP4 phosphorylation is greater in light-adapted than dark-adapted mouse retinas. In electrophysiological recordings of cells transfected with Ca(v)1.3 and CaBP4, mutation of the serine 37 to alanine abolished the effect of CaBP4 in prolonging the Ca2+ current through Ca(v)1.3 channel, whereas inactivating mutations in the CaBP4 Ca2+-binding sites strengthened Ca(v)1.3 modulation. These findings demonstrate how light-stimulated changes in CaBP4 phosphorylation and Ca2+ binding may regulate presynaptic Ca2+ signals in photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, and
| | - Amber Jimenez
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Guiying Cui
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, and
| | - Françoise Haeseleer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
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18
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BAYLEY PHILIPPAR, MORGANS CATHERINEW. Rod bipolar cells and horizontal cells form displaced synaptic contacts with rods in the outer nuclear layer of the nob2 retina. J Comp Neurol 2007; 500:286-98. [PMID: 17111373 PMCID: PMC4238417 DOI: 10.1002/cne.21188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The nob2 mouse carries a null mutation in the Cacna1f gene, which encodes the pore-forming subunit of the L-type calcium channel, Ca(v)1.4. The loss of the electroretinogram b-wave in these mice suggests a severe reduction in transmission between photoreceptors and second-order neurons in the retina and supports a central role for the Ca(v)1.4 calcium channel at photoreceptor ribbon synapses, to which it has been localized. Here we show that the loss of Ca(v)1.4 leads to the aberrant outgrowth of rod bipolar cell dendrites and horizontal cell processes into the outer nuclear layer (ONL) of the nob2 retina and to the formation of ectopic synaptic contacts with rod photoreceptors in the ONL. Ectopic contacts are predominantly between rods and rod bipolar cells, with horizontal cell processes also present at some sites. Ectopic contacts contain apposed pre- and postsynaptic specializations, albeit with malformed synaptic ribbons. Cone photoreceptor terminals do not participate in ectopic contacts in the ONL. During retinal development, ectopic contacts appear in the days after eye opening, appearing progressively farther into the ONL at later postnatal stages. Ectopic contacts develop at the tips of rod bipolar cell dendrites and are less frequently associated with the tips of horizontal cell processes, consistent with the adult phenotype. The relative occurrence of pre- and postsynaptic markers in the ONL during development suggests a mechanism for the formation of ectopic synaptic contacts that is driven by the retraction of rod photoreceptor terminals and neurite outgrowth by rod bipolar cell dendrites.
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Affiliation(s)
- PHILIPPA R. BAYLEY
- Neurological Sciences Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, West Campus, Beaverton, Oregon 97006
| | - CATHERINE W. MORGANS
- Neurological Sciences Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, West Campus, Beaverton, Oregon 97006
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19
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Chang B, Heckenlively JR, Bayley PR, Brecha NC, Davisson MT, Hawes NL, Hirano AA, Hurd RE, Ikeda A, Johnson BA, McCall MA, Morgans CW, Nusinowitz S, Peachey NS, Rice DS, Vessey KA, Gregg RG. The nob2 mouse, a null mutation in Cacna1f: anatomical and functional abnormalities in the outer retina and their consequences on ganglion cell visual responses. Vis Neurosci 2006; 23:11-24. [PMID: 16597347 PMCID: PMC2831086 DOI: 10.1017/s095252380623102x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2005] [Accepted: 11/09/2005] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate release from photoreceptor terminals is controlled by voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs). In humans, mutations in the Cacna1f gene, encoding the alpha1F subunit of VDCCs, underlie the incomplete form of X-linked congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB2). These mutations impair synaptic transmission from rod and cone photoreceptors to bipolar cells. Here, we report anatomical and functional characterizations of the retina in the nob2 (no b-wave 2) mouse, a naturally occurring mutant caused by a null mutation in Cacna1f. Not surprisingly, the b-waves of both the light- and dark-adapted electroretinogram are abnormal in nob2 mice. The outer plexiform layer (OPL) is disorganized, with extension of ectopic neurites through the outer nuclear layer that originate from rod bipolar and horizontal cells, but not from hyperpolarizing bipolar cells. These ectopic neurites continue to express mGluR6, which is frequently associated with profiles that label with the presynaptic marker Ribeye, indicating potential points of ectopic synapse formation. However, the morphology of the presynaptic Ribeye-positive profiles is abnormal. While cone pedicles are present their morphology also appears compromised. Characterizations of visual responses in retinal ganglion cells in vivo, under photopic conditions, demonstrate that ON-center cells have a reduced dynamic range, although their basic center-surround organization is retained; no alteration in the responses of OFF-center cells was evident. These results indicate that nob2 mice are a valuable model in which to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with Cacna1f mutations causing CSNB2, and the subsequent effects on visual information processing. Further, the nob2 mouse represents a model system in which to define the signals that guide synapse formation and/or maintenance in the OPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Chang
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
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20
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Zhang N, Beuve A, Townes-Anderson E. The nitric oxide-cGMP signaling pathway differentially regulates presynaptic structural plasticity in cone and rod cells. J Neurosci 2006; 25:2761-70. [PMID: 15758186 PMCID: PMC6725179 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3195-04.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although abundant structural plasticity in the form of axonal retraction, neurite extension, and formation of presynaptic varicosities is displayed by photoreceptors after retinal detachment and during genetic and age-related retinal degeneration, the mechanisms involved are mostly unknown. We demonstrated recently that Ca(2+) influx through cGMP-gated channels in cones and voltage-gated L-type channels in rods is required for neurite extension in vitro (Zhang and Townes-Anderson, 2002). Here, we report that the nitric oxide (NO)-cGMP signaling pathway is active in photoreceptors and that its manipulation differentially regulates the structural plasticity of cone and rod cells. The NO receptor soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) was detected immunocytochemically in both cone and rod cells. Stimulation of sGC increased cGMP production in retinal cultures. In cone cells, quantitative analysis showed that NO or cGMP stimulated neuritic sprouting; this stimulatory effect was dependent on both Ca2+ influx through cGMP-gated channels and phosphorylation by protein kinase G (PKG). At the highest levels of cGMP, however, cone outgrowth was no longer increased. In rod photoreceptors, NO or cGMP consistently inhibited neuritic growth in a dose-dependent manner; this inhibitory effect required PKG. When NO-cGMP signaling was inhibited, changes in the neuritic development of cone and rod cells were also observed but in the opposite direction. These results expand the role of cGMP in axonal activity to adult neuritogenesis and suggest an explanation for the neurite sprouting observed in an autosomal recessive form of retinitis pigmentosa that is characterized by high cGMP levels in photoreceptor layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey 07103-2714, USA
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21
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Hosoi N, Arai I, Tachibana M. Group III metabotropic glutamate receptors and exocytosed protons inhibit L-type calcium currents in cones but not in rods. J Neurosci 2006; 25:4062-72. [PMID: 15843608 PMCID: PMC6724956 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2735-04.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Light responses of photoreceptors (rods and cones) are transmitted to the second-order neurons (bipolar cells and horizontal cells) via glutamatergic synapses located in the outer plexiform layer of the retina. Although it has been well established that postsynaptic group III metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) of ON bipolar cells contribute to generating the ON signal, presynaptic roles of group III mGluRs remain to be elucidated at this synaptic connection. We addressed this issue by applying the slice patch-clamp technique to the newt retina. OFF bipolar cells and horizontal cells generate a steady inward current in the dark and a transient inward current at light offset, both of which are mediated via postsynaptic non-NMDA receptors. A group III mGluR-specific agonist, L-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyric acid (L-AP-4), inhibited both the steady and off-transient inward currents but did not affect the glutamate-induced current in these postsynaptic neurons. L-AP-4 inhibited the presynaptic L-type calcium current (ICa) in cones by shifting the voltage dependence of activation to more positive membrane potentials. The inhibition of ICa was most prominent around the physiological range of cone membrane potentials. In contrast, L-AP-4 did not affect L-type ICa in rods. Paired recordings from photoreceptors and the synaptically connected second-order neurons confirmed that L-AP-4 inhibited both ICa and glutamate release in cones but not in rods. Furthermore, we found that exocytosed protons also inhibited ICa in cones but not in rods. Selective modulation of ICa in cones may help broaden the dynamic range of synaptic transfer by controlling the amount of transmitter release from cones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobutake Hosoi
- Department of Psychology, Graduate School of Humanities and Sociology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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22
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Morgans CW, Bayley PR, Oesch NW, Ren G, Akileswaran L, Taylor WR. Photoreceptor calcium channels: Insight from night blindness. Vis Neurosci 2005; 22:561-8. [PMID: 16332266 DOI: 10.1017/s0952523805225038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2005] [Accepted: 05/26/2005] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The genetic locus for incomplete congenital stationary night blindness
(CSNB2) has been identified as the CACNA1f gene, encoding the
α1F calcium channel subunit, a member of the L-type family
of calcium channels. The electroretinogram associated with CSNB2
implicates α1F in synaptic transmission between retinal
photoreceptors and bipolar cells. Using a recently developed monoclonal
antibody to α1F, we localize the channel to ribbon active
zones in rod photoreceptor terminals of the mouse retina, supporting a
role for α1F in mediating glutamate release from rods.
Detergent extraction experiments indicate that α1F is part
of a detergent-resistant active zone complex, which also includes the
synaptic ribbons. Comparison of native mouse rod calcium currents with
recombinant α1F currents reveals that the
current–voltage relationship for the native current is shifted
approximately 30 mV to more hyperpolarized potentials than for the
recombinant α1F current, suggesting modulation of the
native channel by intracellular factors. Lastly, we present evidence for
L-type α1D calcium channel subunits in cone terminals of
the mouse retina. The presence of α1D channels in cones may
explain the residual visual abilities of individuals with CSNB2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine W Morgans
- Neurological Sciences Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
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23
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Abstract
The molecular organization of ribbon synapses in photoreceptors and ON bipolar cells is reviewed in relation to the process of neurotransmitter release. The interactions between ribbon synapse-associated proteins, synaptic vesicle fusion machinery and the voltage-gated calcium channels that gate transmitter release at ribbon synapses are discussed in relation to the process of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We describe structural and mechanistic specializations that permit the ON bipolar cell to release transmitter at a much higher rate than the photoreceptor does, under in vivo conditions. We also consider the modulation of exocytosis at photoreceptor synapses, with an emphasis on the regulation of calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Heidelberger
- Department of Neurobiology & Anatomy, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Wallace B. Thoreson
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Department of Pharmacology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Paul Witkovsky
- Department of Ophthalmology and Department of Physiology & Neuroscience, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
- *Corresponding author. Tel: +1 212 263 6488; fax: +1 212 263 7602. E-mail address: (P. Witkovsky)
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24
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Maeda T, Lem J, Palczewski K, Haeseleer F. A critical role of CaBP4 in the cone synapse. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2005; 46:4320-7. [PMID: 16249514 PMCID: PMC1351246 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.05-0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE CaBP4, a photoreceptor-specific protein of the rods and cones, is essential for the development and maintenance of the mouse photoreceptor synapse. In this study, double CaBP4/rod alpha-transducin knockout (Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-)) mice lacking the rod-mediated component of electrophysiologic responses were generated and analyzed to investigate the role of CaBP4 in cones. METHODS The retinal morphology and physiologic function of 2-month-old Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-) mice were analyzed using immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy, and single-flash and flicker electroretinography (ERG). RESULTS The thickness of the outer plexiform layer and the number of photoreceptor terminals in Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-) mice were reduced to levels similar to those of Cabp4(-/-) mice. Single-flash and flicker ERG showed that the amplitude and sensitivity of the b-wave in the Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-) mice were severely attenuated compared with those in wild-type and Gnat1(-/-) mice. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that the cone synaptic function in Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-) mice was severely disrupted, whereas the morphologic defects observed in Cabp4(-/-)Gnat1(-/-) mice were similar to those of single Cabp4(-/-) knockout mice. This and a previous study reveal that CaBP4 is critical for signal transmission from rods and cones to second-order neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janis Lem
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Molecular Cardiology, Tufts–New England Med Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- From the Departments of Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology, and
- Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; and the
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25
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Berntson A, Smith RG, Taylor WR. Transmission of single photon signals through a binary synapse in the mammalian retina. Vis Neurosci 2005; 21:693-702. [PMID: 15683557 DOI: 10.1017/s0952523804215048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2003] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
At very low light levels the sensitivity of the visual system is determined by the efficiency with which single photons are captured, and the resulting signal transmitted from the rod photoreceptors through the retinal circuitry to the ganglion cells and on to the brain. Although the tiny electrical signals due to single photons have been observed in rod photoreceptors, little is known about how these signals are preserved during subsequent transmission to the optic nerve. We find that the synaptic currents elicited by single photons in mouse rod bipolar cells have a peak amplitude of 5-6 pA, and that about 20 rod photoreceptors converge upon each rod bipolar cell. The data indicates that the first synapse, between rod photoreceptors and rod bipolar cells, signals a binary event: the detection, or not, of a photon or photons in the connected rod photoreceptors. We present a simple model that demonstrates how a threshold nonlinearity during synaptic transfer allows transmission of the single photon signal, while rejecting the convergent neural noise from the 20 other rod photoreceptors feeding into this first synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Berntson
- John Curtin School of Medical Research and Centre for Visual Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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26
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Abstract
L-type calcium channels couple membrane depolarization in neurons to numerous processes including gene expression, synaptic efficacy, and cell survival. To establish the contribution of L-type calcium channels to various signaling cascades, investigators have relied on their unique pharmacological sensitivity to dihydropyridines. The traditional view of dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type calcium channels is that they are high-voltage–activating and have slow activation kinetics. These properties limit the involvement of L-type calcium channels to neuronal functions triggered by strong and sustained depolarizations. This review highlights literature, both long-standing and recent, that points to significant functional diversity among L-type calcium channels expressed in neurons and other excitable cells. Past literature contains several reports of low-voltage–activated neuronal L-type calcium channels that parallel the unique properties of recently cloned CaV1.3 L-type channels. The fast kinetics and low activation thresholds of CaV1.3 channels stand in stark contrast to criteria currently used to describe L-type calcium channels. A more accurate view of neuronal L-type calcium channels encompasses a broad range of activation thresholds and recognizes their potential contribution to signaling cascades triggered by subthreshold depolarizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Lipscombe
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, 190 Thayer Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
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27
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Essential role of Ca2+-binding protein 4, a Cav1.4 channel regulator, in photoreceptor synaptic function. Nat Neurosci 2004; 7:1079-87. [PMID: 15452577 DOI: 10.1038/nn1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2004] [Accepted: 08/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CaBP1-8 are neuronal Ca(2+)-binding proteins with similarity to calmodulin (CaM). Here we show that CaBP4 is specifically expressed in photoreceptors, where it is localized to synaptic terminals. The outer plexiform layer, which contains the photoreceptor synapses with secondary neurons, was thinner in the Cabp4(-/-) mice than in control mice. Cabp4(-/-) retinas also had ectopic synapses originating from rod bipolar and horizontal cells tha HJt extended into the outer nuclear layer. Responses of Cabp4(-/-) rod bipolars were reduced in sensitivity about 100-fold. Electroretinograms (ERGs) indicated a reduction in cone and rod synaptic function. The phenotype of Cabp4(-/-) mice shares similarities with that of incomplete congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB2) patients. CaBP4 directly associated with the C-terminal domain of the Ca(v)1.4 alpha(1)-subunit and shifted the activation of Ca(v)1.4 to hyperpolarized voltages in transfected cells. These observations indicate that CaBP4 is important for normal synaptic function, probably through regulation of Ca(2+) influx and neurotransmitter release in photoreceptor synaptic terminals.
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28
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McRory JE, Hamid J, Doering CJ, Garcia E, Parker R, Hamming K, Chen L, Hildebrand M, Beedle AM, Feldcamp L, Zamponi GW, Snutch TP. The CACNA1F gene encodes an L-type calcium channel with unique biophysical properties and tissue distribution. J Neurosci 2004; 24:1707-18. [PMID: 14973233 PMCID: PMC6730460 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4846-03.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate release from rod photoreceptors is dependent on a sustained calcium influx through L-type calcium channels. Missense mutations in the CACNA1F gene in patients with incomplete X-linked congenital stationary night blindness implicate the Ca(v)1.4 calcium channel subtype. Here, we describe the functional and pharmacological properties of transiently expressed human Ca(v)1.4 calcium channels. Ca(v)1.4 is shown to encode a dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channel with unusually slow inactivation kinetics that are not affected by either calcium ions or by coexpression of ancillary calcium channel beta subunits. Additionally, the channel supports a large window current and activates near -40 mV in 2 mM external calcium, making Ca(v)1.4 ideally suited for tonic calcium influx at typical photoreceptor resting potentials. Introduction of base pair changes associated with four incomplete X-linked congenital night blindness mutations showed that only the G369D alteration affected channel activation properties. Immunohistochemical analyses show that, in contrast with previous reports, Ca(v)1.4 is widely distributed outside the retina, including in the immune system, thus suggesting a broader role in human physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E McRory
- Biotechnology Laboratory, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z3
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29
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Barnes S. Center-surround antagonism mediated by proton signaling at the cone photoreceptor synapse. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 122:653-6. [PMID: 14610023 PMCID: PMC2229589 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.200308947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Barnes
- Department of Physiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
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30
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Abstract
AII amacrine cells play a critical role in the high-fidelity signal transmission pathways involved with nighttime vision. The temporal properties of the light responses strongly depend on the transfer function at different synaptic stages and consequently on presynaptic calcium influx. AII light responses are complex waveforms generated by graded input, they comprise Na+-based spikes as well as a sustained component, and they are transferred to graded cone bipolar cells. It is, therefore, of interest to determine the properties of AII voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) to establish whether these cells express N-type and/or P/Q-type VDCCs, characteristic of spiking neurons, or whether they are more like graded neurons, which mostly use L-type VDCCs. We combined electrophysiological, molecular biological, and imaging techniques to characterize calcium currents and their sites of origin in mouse AII amacrine cells. Calcium currents activated at potentials more positive than -60 mV (maximally between -50 and -20 mV) and inactivated slowly. These currents were blocked by dihydropyridine (DHP) antagonists and were enhanced by the DHP agonist BayK 8644. Single-cell RT-PCR analysis of mRNA encoding for different calcium channel alpha subunits in AIIs revealed a consistent expression of the alpha1-D subunit. Calcium imaging of AII cells showed that the greatest change in intracellular calcium occurred in the lobular appendages, with minor changes being observed in the arboreal dendrites. Depolarization-induced calcium rises were also modulated by DHPs, suggesting that a particular kind of L-type VDCC, mainly localized to the lobular appendages, enables these spiking-capable neurons to release neurotransmitter in a sustained manner onto OFF-cone bipolar cells.
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31
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Cav1.4alpha1 subunits can form slowly inactivating dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type Ca2+ channels lacking Ca2+-dependent inactivation. J Neurosci 2003. [PMID: 12853422 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.23-14-06041.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) Cav1.2alpha1 and Cav1.3alpha1 are functionally distinct. Cav1.3alpha1 activates at lower voltages and inactivates more slowly than Cav1.2alpha1, making it suitable to support sustained L-type Ca2+ inward currents (ICa,L) and serve in pacemaker functions. We compared the biophysical and pharmacological properties of human retinal Cav1.4alpha1 using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique after heterologous expression in tsA-201 cells with other L-type alpha1 subunits. Cav1.4alpha1-mediated inward Ba2+ currents (IBa) required the coexpression of alpha2delta1 and beta3 or beta2a subunits and were detected in a lower proportion of transfected cells than Cav1.3alpha1. IBa activated at more negative voltages (5% activation threshold; -39mV; 15 mm Ba2+) than Cav1.2alpha1 and slightly more positive than Cav1.3alpha1. Voltage-dependent inactivation of IBa was slower than for Cav1.2alpha1 and Cav1.3alpha1( approximately 50% inactivation after 5 sec; alpha2delta1 + beta3 coexpression). Inactivation was not increased with Ca2+ as the charge carrier, indicating the absence of Ca2+-dependent inactivation. Cav1.4alpha1 exhibited voltage-dependent, G-protein-independent facilitation by strong depolarizing pulses. The dihydropyridine (DHP)-antagonist isradipine blocked Cav1.4alpha1 with approximately 15-fold lower sensitivity than Cav1.2alpha1 and in a voltage-dependent manner. Strong stimulation by the DHP BayK 8644 was found despite the substitution of an otherwise L-type channel-specific tyrosine residue in position 1414 (repeat IVS6) by a phenylalanine. Cav1.4alpha1 + alpha2delta1 + beta channel complexes can form LTCCs with intermediate DHP antagonist sensitivity lacking Ca2+-dependent inactivation. Their biophysical properties should enable them to contribute to sustained ICa,L at negative potentials, such as required for tonic neurotransmitter release in sensory cells and plateau potentials in spiking neurons.
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Ball SL, Gregg RG. Using mutant mice to study the role of voltage-gated calcium channels in the retina. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2003; 514:439-50. [PMID: 12596937 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-0121-3_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are critical to numerous cellular functions including synaptogenesis and neurotransmitter release. Mutations in individual subunits of VGCCs are known to result in a wide array of neurological disorders including episodic ataxia, epilepsy, and migraines. The characterization of these disorders has focused on channel function within the brain. However, a defect in the retina-specific alpha1F subunit of an L-type VGCC results is a loss of visual sensitivity or the incomplete form of X-linked congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB2). Based on the electroretinographic phenotype of these patients this channel type is localized to the axon terminal of photoreceptor cells and results in a loss of signal transmission from photoreceptors to bipolar cells. A mouse with a deletion of the beta2 subunit of VGCCs in the central nervous system was recently shown to have a similar phenotype as CSNB2 patients. The identification of the role of VGCCs in this disorder highlights the potential association of other VGCC mutations with retinal disorders. The study of the role of these channels in normal retinal function may also be elucidated by the characterization of retinal structure and visual function in the numerous knockout, transgenic, and naturally occurring mouse mutants currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry L Ball
- Research Service, Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Barnes S, Kelly MEM. Calcium channels at the photoreceptor synapse. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2003; 514:465-76. [PMID: 12596939 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-0121-3_28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Presynaptic Ca2+ channels mediate early stages of visual information processing in photoreceptors by facilitating the release of neurotransmitter and by receiving modulatory input that alters transmission. Two types of L-type Ca2+ channels, composed of alpha1F and alpha1D subunits and having similar biophysical andpharmacological properties, appear to form the principle voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx pathways in rods and cones, respectively. The role played by these channels in neurotransmitter release at these graded potential, non-spiking synapses, has been well described. The channels mediate sustained glutamate release in darkness where the cells rest at potentials near -40 mV, and signal increases in light intensity as the cells hyperpolarize negative to this value. Synaptic modulation and integration mediated by these channels has not yet been as fully described but appears to involve GABA, nitric oxide (NO), glutamate, and dopamine. Ca2+ permeable cyclic nucleotide gated (CNG) channels appear to have supporting roles at the photoreceptor output synapse and may transduce NO signals from other cells by either directly permitting Ca2+ influx or by providing depolarizing influences that gate voltage dependent Ca2+ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Barnes
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4H7.
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Hart J, Wilkinson MF, Kelly MEM, Barnes S. Inhibitory action of diltiazem on voltage-gated calcium channels in cone photoreceptors. Exp Eye Res 2003; 76:597-604. [PMID: 12697423 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-4835(03)00027-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The benzothiazepine, diltiazem, is commonly used as an inhibitor of vascular L-type Ca channels, and is a clinically important anti-anginal and antihypertensive medication. In the retina, diltiazem also inhibits cyclic-nucleotide gated (CNG) channels, including the cGMP-gated channels in photoreceptors, and has been suggested to be a neuroprotectant in an animal model of retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative disease of photoreceptors. In contrast to CNG channels, the actions of diltiazem on photoreceptor Ca channels have not been studied. We show that D-cis-diltiazem can block Ca channels in cone photoreceptors and that the potency and efficacy of cone photoreceptor Ca channel inhibition by this drug is unconventional. Over the concentration range of 5-500 microM diltiazem, the dose response curve was biphasic with a high affinity saturation level of approximately 30% block in the 20-50 microM range (IC(50)=4.9 microM) and a low affinity saturation block (near 100%) with concentrations up to 500 microM (IC(50)=100.4 microM). The degree of block was found to be equivalent when Bay K 8644 was used to increase Ca channel current, indicating that the levels of block do not result from multiple Ca channel subtypes having differing sensitivities to diltiazem. Calcium imaging showed that the relatively low efficacy of the high-affinity Ca channel block was not due to the species of charge-carrying divalent cation nor that it was associated with dialysis of cellular contents. These data contribute to an emerging perspective that the photoreceptor Ca channel has properties unique from other L-type channels, an important consideration should these channels become a target for testing putative neuroprotective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Hart
- Neuroscience Research Group, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta, Canada
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Abstract
In response to retinal disease and injury, the axon terminals of rod photoreceptors demonstrate dramatic structural plasticity, including axonal retraction, neurite extension, and the development of presynaptic varicosities. Cone cell terminals, however, are relatively inactive. Similar events are observed in primary cultures of salamander photoreceptors. To investigate the mechanisms underlying these disparate presynaptic responses, antagonists to voltage-gated L-type and cGMP-gated channels, known to be present on rod and cone cell terminals, respectively, were used to block calcium influx during critical periods of plasticity in vitro. In rod cells, L-type channel antagonists nicardipine and verapamil inhibited not only the outgrowth of processes and the formation of varicosities, but also the synthesis of vesicle proteins, SV2 and synaptophysin. In contrast, the synthesis of opsin in rod cells was unaffected. In cone cells, L-type channel antagonists caused only modest changes. However, cobalt bromide, which blocks all calcium channels, and l-cis-diltiazem, a potent antagonist of cGMP-gated channels, significantly inhibited varicosity formation and synthesis of SV2 in cone cells. Moreover, the cGMP-gated channel agonist 8-bromo-cGMP caused a significant increase in varicosity formation by cone but not rod cells. Thus voltage-gated L-type channels in rod cells and cGMP-gated channels in cone cells are the primary calcium channels required for structural plasticity and the accompanying upregulation of synaptic vesicle synthesis. The differing responses of rod and cone terminals to injury and disease may be determined by these differences in the regulation of Ca2+ influx.
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Krizaj D, Copenhagen DR. Calcium regulation in photoreceptors. FRONTIERS IN BIOSCIENCE : A JOURNAL AND VIRTUAL LIBRARY 2002; 7:d2023-44. [PMID: 12161344 PMCID: PMC1995662 DOI: 10.2741/a896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In this review we describe some of the remarkable and intricate mechanisms through which the calcium ion (Ca2+) contributes to detection, transduction and synaptic transfer of light stimuli in rod and cone photoreceptors. The function of Ca2+ is highly compartmentalized. In the outer segment, Ca2+ controls photoreceptor light adaptation by independently adjusting the gain of phototransduction at several stages in the transduction chain. In the inner segment and synaptic terminal, Ca2+ regulates cells' metabolism, glutamate release, cytoskeletal dynamics, gene expression and cell death. We discuss the mechanisms of Ca2+ entry, buffering, sequestration, release from internal stores and Ca2+ extrusion from both outer and inner segments, showing that these two compartments have little in common with respect to Ca2+ homeostasis. We also investigate the various roles played by Ca2+ as an integrator of intracellular signaling pathways, and emphasize the central role played by Ca2+ as a second messenger in neuromodulation of photoreceptor signaling by extracellular ligands such as dopamine, adenosine and somatostatin. Finally, we review the intimate link between dysfunction in photoreceptor Ca2+ homeostasis and pathologies leading to retinal dysfunction and blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Krizaj
- Dept of Physiology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143-0730, USA.
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Hibino H, Pironkova R, Onwumere O, Vologodskaia M, Hudspeth AJ, Lesage F. RIM binding proteins (RBPs) couple Rab3-interacting molecules (RIMs) to voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. Neuron 2002; 34:411-23. [PMID: 11988172 PMCID: PMC2151925 DOI: 10.1016/s0896-6273(02)00667-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ca(2+) influx through voltage-gated channels initiates the exocytotic fusion of synaptic vesicles to the plasma membrane. Here we show that RIM binding proteins (RBPs), which associate with Ca(2+) channels in hair cells, photoreceptors, and neurons, interact with alpha(1D) (L type) and alpha(1B) (N type) Ca(2+) channel subunits. RBPs contain three Src homology 3 domains that bind to proline-rich motifs in alpha(1) subunits and Rab3-interacting molecules (RIMs). Overexpression in PC12 cells of fusion proteins that suppress the interactions of RBPs with RIMs and alpha(1) augments the exocytosis triggered by depolarization. RBPs may regulate the strength of synaptic transmission by creating a functional link between the synaptic-vesicle tethering apparatus, which includes RIMs and Rab3, and the fusion machinery, which includes Ca(2+) channels and the SNARE complex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - A. J. Hudspeth
- Address for correspondence: Dr. A. J. Hudspeth, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Laboratory of Sensory Neuroscience, Box 314, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York NY 10021-6399 USA, Telephone: 212/327-7351; Facsimile: 212/327-7352; E-mail:
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Xu HP, Luo DG, Yang XL. Signals from cone photoreceptors to L-type horizontal cells are differentially modulated by low calcium in carp retina. Eur J Neurosci 2001; 13:1411-9. [PMID: 11298802 DOI: 10.1046/j.0953-816x.2001.01515.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ca2+ plays crucial roles in both phototransduction and calcium-dependent glutamate release from the photoreceptor terminal. Modulation, by lowering extracellular Ca2+, of red-sensitive (R-) and short wavelength-sensitive (S-) cone-driven light responses of L-type horizontal cells (LHCs) was studied in the isolated superfused carp retina using intracellular recording techniques. Low Ca2+ (nominally Ca2+-free) Ringer's reduced responses of LHCs to both green (500 nm) and red (680 nm) flashes in darkness, with the former being suppressed more substantially than the latter. This differential suppression became more significant when contribution of R-cones to the green-light-induced responses was diminished by a moderate red (680 nm) background light. Application of IBMX, an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase (PDE), increased LHC responses to both red and green flashes equally, resembling the effect of low Ca2+ on phototransduction. In addition, photopic electroretinographic P III responses, reflecting the activity of cones, to red flashes were more potentiated by low Ca2+, compared to those to green flashes, whilst they were both equally potentiated by IBMX. Furthermore, low Ca2+ caused a more pronounced suppression of LHC responses to red flashes than those to green flashes in the presence of IBMX. It is postulated that reduction of LHC responses in low Ca2+ may be due to the 'saturation suppression' caused by the increased glutamate release from the photoreceptor terminal and the differential modulation may reflect a consequence of the dual action of low Ca2+ on the PDE activity in the photoreceptor outer segment and the synaptic strength between cones and LHCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Xu
- Institute of Neurobiology, Fudan University and Shanghai Institute of Physiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 220 Han-Dan Road, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
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Stella SL, Thoreson WB. Differential modulation of rod and cone calcium currents in tiger salamander retina by D2 dopamine receptors and cAMP. Eur J Neurosci 2000; 12:3537-48. [PMID: 11029623 DOI: 10.1046/j.1460-9568.2000.00235.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic transmission from vertebrate photoreceptors involves activation of L-type calcium currents (ICa). Dopamine is an important circadian neuromodulator in the retina and photoreceptors possess D2 dopamine receptors. We examined modulation of ICa by dopamine and cAMP in retinal slices and isolated cells of larval tiger salamander. Results show that dopamine and a D2 agonist, quinpirole, enhanced ICa in rods and red-, blue- and UV-sensitive small single cones but inhibited ICa in red-sensitive large single cones. A D1 agonist, SKF-38393, was without effect. Quinpirole effects were blocked by pertussis toxin (PTx) pretreatment indicating involvement of PTx-sensitive G-proteins. Like dopamine, inhibition of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) by Rp-cAMPS enhanced ICa in rods and small single cones, but inhibited ICa in large single cones. In contrast, forskolin and Sp-cAMPS, which stimulate PKA, inhibited ICa in rods and small single cones but enhanced ICa in large single cones. Sp-cAMPS also occluded effects of quinpirole. These results suggest that D2 receptors modulate ICa via inhibition of cAMP. Differences among the responses of photoreceptors to cAMP are consistent with the possibility that small single cones and rods may possess different Ca2+ channel subtypes than large single cones. The results with dopamine and quinpirole showing inhibition of ICa in large single cones and enhancement of rod ICa were unexpected because previous studies have shown that dopamine suppresses rod inputs and enhances cone inputs into second-order neurons. The present results therefore indicate that the dopaminergic enhancement of cone inputs does not arise from modulation of photoreceptor ICa.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Stella
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985540 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5540, USA
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Abstract
The synapses of photoreceptors and bipolar cells in the retina are characterized ultrastructurally by the presence of an electron-dense bar, the synaptic ribbon, lying perpendicular to the plasma membrane at the active zone and extending about 0.5 microm into the cytoplasm. Hence, these synapses are known as ribbon synapses. All neurons that make ribbon synapses release neurotransmitter tonically. That is, neurotransmitter is released continuously from these neurons and the rate of release is modulated in response to graded changes in the membrane potential. This contrasts with action potential-driven, phasic release from other neurons. Similar to other synapses, neurotransmitter is released at ribbon synapses by the calcium-dependent exocytosis of synaptic vesicles. Most components of the molecular machinery governing transmitter release are conserved between ribbon and conventional synapses, but several differences that may be important determinants of tonic transmitter release have been identified in the retina by immunohistochemistry. For example, the presynaptic calcium channels of bipolar cells and photoreceptors are different from those elsewhere in the brain. Differences have also been found in the proteins involved in synaptic vesicle recruitment to the active zone and in synaptic vesicle fusion. These differences and others are discussed in terms of their implications for neurotransmitter release from photoreceptors and bipolar cells in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- C W Morgans
- Synaptic Biochemistry Group, Division of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Canberra, Australia.
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Abstract
Cone pedicles, the synaptic terminals of cone photoreceptors, are connected in the macaque monkey retina to several hundred postsynaptic dendrites. Using light and electron microscopy, we found underneath each cone pedicle a laminated distribution of dendritic processes of bipolar and horizontal cells. Superimposed were three strata of glutamate receptor (GluR) aggregates, including a novel layer of glutamate receptors clustered at desmosome-like junctions. They are, most likely, postsynaptic densities on horizontal cell dendrites. GABA(A) and GABA(C) receptors are aggregated on bipolar cell dendrites in a narrow band underneath the cone pedicle. Glutamate released from cone pedicles and GABA released from horizontal cell dendrites act not only through direct synaptic contacts but also (more so) through diffusion to the appropriate receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Haverkamp
- Neuroanatomische Abteilung, Max-Planck-Institut für Hirnforschung, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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Kourennyi DE, Barnes S. Depolarization-induced calcium channel facilitation in rod photoreceptors is independent of G proteins and phosphorylation. J Neurophysiol 2000; 84:133-8. [PMID: 10899191 DOI: 10.1152/jn.2000.84.1.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Depolarization-induced facilitation of L-type Ca channels in rod photoreceptors was investigated with nystatin-perforated and ruptured whole cell patch-clamp techniques in cells isolated from tiger salamander retina. Induction of facilitation was voltage dependent with a half-maximal effect seen at prepulse potentials near +31 mV. Reversal of facilitation was time dependent with fast (tau approximately 20 ms) and slow (tau approximately 1 s) components at -60 mV. Incubation of cells with pertussis toxin or intracellular administration of guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) or guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) had no effect on the degree to which facilitation could be evoked, implying the absence of a significant role for G proteins. Application of the phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid or inclusion of ATP, to boost levels of phosphorylation, or inclusion of 5'adenylylimidophosphate or inhibitors of protein kinase in the pipette, to reduce levels of phosphorylation, had no effect on the development of facilitation, suggesting that phosphorylation has little or no role in this phenomenon. These results show that the L-type Ca channels in rod photoreceptors, which appear to be composed of alpha(1F)-like subunits, undergo voltage-dependent facilitation in a manner that differs from some other L-type Ca channels which undergo facilitation via phosphorylation or through G-protein-mediated inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E Kourennyi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
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