1
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Gururaja Rao S, Lam A, Seeley S, Park J, Aruva S, Singh H. The BK Ca (slo) channel regulates the cardiac function of Drosophila. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e15996. [PMID: 38561252 PMCID: PMC10984821 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The large conductance, calcium, and voltage-active potassium channels (BKCa) were originally discovered in Drosophila melanogaster as slowpoke (slo). They are extensively characterized in fly models as ion channels for their roles in neurological and muscular function, as well as aging. BKCa is known to modulate cardiac rhythm and is localized to the mitochondria. Activation of mitochondrial BKCa causes cardioprotection from ischemia-reperfusion injury, possibly via modulating mitochondrial function in adult animal models. However, the role of BKCa in cardiac function is not well-characterized, partially due to its localization to the plasma membrane as well as intracellular membranes and the wide array of cells present in mammalian hearts. Here we demonstrate for the first time a direct role for BKCa in cardiac function and cardioprotection from IR injury using the Drosophila model system. We have also discovered that the BKCa channel plays a role in the functioning of aging hearts. Our study establishes the presence of BKCa in the fly heart and ascertains its role in aging heart function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubha Gururaja Rao
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical SciencesThe Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern UniversityAdaOhioUSA
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Alexander Lam
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Sarah Seeley
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical SciencesThe Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern UniversityAdaOhioUSA
| | - Jeniffer Park
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Shriya Aruva
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Harpreet Singh
- Department of Physiology and Cell BiologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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2
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Echeverría F, Gonzalez-Sanabria N, Alvarado-Sanchez R, Fernández M, Castillo K, Latorre R. Large conductance voltage-and calcium-activated K + (BK) channel in health and disease. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1373507. [PMID: 38584598 PMCID: PMC10995336 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1373507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Large Conductance Voltage- and Calcium-activated K+ (BK) channels are transmembrane pore-forming proteins that regulate cell excitability and are also expressed in non-excitable cells. They play a role in regulating vascular tone, neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release, and muscle contraction. Dysfunction of the BK channel can lead to arterial hypertension, hearing disorders, epilepsy, and ataxia. Here, we provide an overview of BK channel functioning and the implications of its abnormal functioning in various diseases. Understanding the function of BK channels is crucial for comprehending the mechanisms involved in regulating vital physiological processes, both in normal and pathological conditions, controlled by BK. This understanding may lead to the development of therapeutic interventions to address BK channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Echeverría
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Naileth Gonzalez-Sanabria
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Rosangelina Alvarado-Sanchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Miguel Fernández
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Karen Castillo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Centro de Investigación de Estudios Avanzados del Maule, Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
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3
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Meredith AL. BK Channelopathies and KCNMA1-Linked Disease Models. Annu Rev Physiol 2024; 86:277-300. [PMID: 37906945 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-030323-042845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Novel KCNMA1 variants, encoding the BK K+ channel, are associated with a debilitating dyskinesia and epilepsy syndrome. Neurodevelopmental delay, cognitive disability, and brain and structural malformations are also diagnosed at lower incidence. More than half of affected individuals present with a rare negative episodic motor disorder, paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia (PNKD3). The mechanistic relationship of PNKD3 to epilepsy and the broader spectrum of KCNMA1-associated symptomology is unknown. This review summarizes patient-associated KCNMA1 variants within the BK channel structure, functional classifications, genotype-phenotype associations, disease models, and treatment. Patient and transgenic animal data suggest delineation of gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function KCNMA1 neurogenetic disease, validating two heterozygous alleles encoding GOF BK channels (D434G and N999S) as causing seizure and PNKD3. This discovery led to a variant-defined therapeutic approach for PNKD3, providing initial insight into the neurological basis. A comprehensive clinical definition of monogenic KCNMA1-linked disease and the neuronal mechanisms currently remain priorities for continued investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA;
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4
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Moldenhauer HJ, Tammen K, Meredith AL. Structural mapping of patient-associated KCNMA1 gene variants. Biophys J 2023:S0006-3495(23)04120-6. [PMID: 38042986 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.11.3404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1-linked channelopathy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures, motor abnormalities, and neurodevelopmental disabilities. The disease mechanisms are predicted to result from alterations in KCNMA1-encoded BK K+ channel activity; however, only a subset of the patient-associated variants have been functionally studied. The localization of these variants within the tertiary structure or evaluation by pathogenicity algorithms has not been systematically assessed. In this study, 82 nonsynonymous patient-associated KCNMA1 variants were mapped within the BK channel protein. Fifty-three variants localized within cryoelectron microscopy-resolved structures, including 21 classified as either gain of function (GOF) or loss of function (LOF) in BK channel activity. Clusters of LOF variants were identified in the pore, the AC region (RCK1), and near the Ca2+ bowl (RCK2), overlapping with sites of pharmacological or endogenous modulation. However, no clustering was found for GOF variants. To further understand variants of uncertain significance (VUSs), assessments by multiple standard pathogenicity algorithms were compared, and new thresholds for sensitivity and specificity were established from confirmed GOF and LOF variants. An ensemble algorithm was constructed (KCNMA1 meta score (KMS)), consisting of a weighted summation of this trained dataset combined with a structural component derived from the Ca2+-bound and unbound BK channels. KMS assessment differed from the highest-performing individual algorithm (REVEL) at 10 VUS residues, and a subset were studied further by electrophysiology in HEK293 cells. M578T, E656A, and D965V (KMS+;REVEL-) were confirmed to alter BK channel properties in voltage-clamp recordings, and D800Y (KMS-;REVEL+) was assessed as benign under the test conditions. However, KMS failed to accurately assess K457E. These combined results reveal the distribution of potentially disease-causing KCNMA1 variants within BK channel functional domains and pathogenicity evaluation for VUSs, suggesting strategies for improving channel-level predictions in future studies by building on ensemble algorithms such as KMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans J Moldenhauer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kelly Tammen
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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5
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Moldenhauer HJ, Tammen K, Meredith AL. Structural mapping of patient-associated KCNMA1 gene variants. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.27.550850. [PMID: 37546746 PMCID: PMC10402178 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.27.550850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
KCNMA1-linked channelopathy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures, motor abnormalities, and neurodevelopmental disabilities. The disease mechanisms are predicted to result from alterations in KCNMA1-encoded BK K+ channel activity; however, only a subset of the patient-associated variants have been functionally studied. The localization of these variants within the tertiary structure or evaluation by pathogenicity algorithms has not been systematically assessed. In this study, 82 nonsynonymous patient-associated KCNMA1 variants were mapped within the BK channel protein. Fifty-three variants localized within cryo-EM resolved structures, including 21 classified as either gain-of-function (GOF) or loss-of-function (LOF) in BK channel activity. Clusters of LOF variants were identified in the pore, the AC region (RCK1), and near the Ca 2+ bowl (RCK2), overlapping with sites of pharmacological or endogenous modulation. However, no clustering was found for GOF variants. To further understand variants of uncertain significance (VUS), assessments by multiple standard pathogenicity algorithms were compared, and new thresholds for sensitivity and specificity were established from confirmed GOF and LOF variants. An ensemble algorithm was constructed (KCNMA1 Meta Score), consisting of a weighted summation of this trained dataset combined with a structural component derived from the Ca 2+ bound and unbound BK channels. KMS assessment differed from the highest performing individual algorithm (REVEL) at 10 VUS residues, and a subset were studied further by electrophysiology in HEK293 cells. M578T, E656A, and D965V (KMS+;REVEL-) were confirmed to alter BK channel properties in voltage-clamp recordings, and D800Y (KMS-;REVEL+) was assessed as benign under the test conditions. However, KMS failed to accurately assess K457E. These combined results reveal the distribution of potentially disease-causing KCNMA1 variants within BK channel functional domains and pathogenicity evaluation for VUS, suggesting strategies for improving channel-level predictions in future studies by building on ensemble algorithms such as KMS.
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6
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Dinsdale RL, Roache CE, Meredith AL. Disease-associated KCNMA1 variants decrease circadian clock robustness in channelopathy mouse models. J Gen Physiol 2023; 155:e202313357. [PMID: 37728576 PMCID: PMC10510740 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202313357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1 encodes the voltage- and calcium-activated K+ (BK) channel, which regulates suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neuronal firing and circadian behavioral rhythms. Gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function (LOF) alterations in BK channel activity disrupt circadian behavior, but the effect of human disease-associated KCNMA1 channelopathy variants has not been studied on clock function. Here, we assess circadian behavior in two GOF and one LOF mouse lines. Heterozygous Kcnma1N999S/WT and homozygous Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice are validated as GOF models of paroxysmal dyskinesia (PNKD3), but whether circadian rhythm is affected in this hypokinetic locomotor disorder is unknown. Conversely, homozygous LOF Kcnma1H444Q/H444Q mice do not demonstrate PNKD3. We assessed circadian behavior by locomotor wheel running activity. All three mouse models were rhythmic, but Kcnma1N999S/WT and Kcnma1D434G/D434G showed reduced circadian amplitude and decreased wheel activity, corroborating prior studies focused on acute motor coordination. In addition, Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice had a small decrease in period. However, the phase-shifting sensitivity for both GOF mouse lines was abnormal. Both Kcnma1N999S/WT and Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice displayed increased responses to light pulses and took fewer days to re-entrain to a new light:dark cycle. In contrast, the LOF Kcnma1H444Q/H444Q mice showed no difference in any of the circadian parameters tested. The enhanced sensitivity to phase-shifting stimuli in Kcnma1N999S/WT and Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice was similar to other Kcnma1 GOF mice. Together with previous studies, these results suggest that increasing BK channel activity decreases circadian clock robustness, without rhythm ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria L. Dinsdale
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cooper E. Roache
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea L. Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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7
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Geng Y, Li P, Butler A, Wang B, Salkoff L, Magleby KL. BK channels of five different subunit combinations underlie the de novo KCNMA1 G375R channelopathy. J Gen Physiol 2023; 155:e202213302. [PMID: 36995317 PMCID: PMC10067970 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202213302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular basis of a severe developmental and neurological disorder associated with a de novo G375R variant of the tetrameric BK channel is unknown. Here, we address this question by recording from single BK channels expressed to mimic a G375R mutation heterozygous with a WT allele. Five different types of functional BK channels were expressed: 3% were consistent with WT, 12% with homotetrameric mutant, and 85% with three different types of hybrid (heterotetrameric) channels assembled from both mutant and WT subunits. All channel types except WT showed a marked gain-of-function in voltage activation and a smaller decrease-of-function in single-channel conductance, with both changes in function becoming more pronounced as the number of mutant subunits per tetrameric channel increased. The net cellular response from the five different types of channels comprising the molecular phenotype was a shift of -120 mV in the voltage required to activate half of the maximal current through BK channels, giving a net gain-of-function. The WT and homotetrameric mutant channels in the molecular phenotype were consistent with genetic codominance as each displayed properties of a channel arising from only one of the two alleles. The three types of hybrid channels in the molecular phenotype were consistent with partial dominance as their properties were intermediate between those of mutant and WT channels. A model in which BK channels randomly assemble from mutant and WT subunits, with each subunit contributing increments of activation and conductance, approximated the molecular phenotype of the heterozygous G375R mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Geng
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alice Butler
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bill Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lawrence Salkoff
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Karl L. Magleby
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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8
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Ancatén-González C, Segura I, Alvarado-Sánchez R, Chávez AE, Latorre R. Ca 2+- and Voltage-Activated K + (BK) Channels in the Nervous System: One Gene, a Myriad of Physiological Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3407. [PMID: 36834817 PMCID: PMC9967218 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BK channels are large conductance potassium channels characterized by four pore-forming α subunits, often co-assembled with auxiliary β and γ subunits to regulate Ca2+ sensitivity, voltage dependence and gating properties. BK channels are abundantly expressed throughout the brain and in different compartments within a single neuron, including axons, synaptic terminals, dendritic arbors, and spines. Their activation produces a massive efflux of K+ ions that hyperpolarizes the cellular membrane. Together with their ability to detect changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration, BK channels control neuronal excitability and synaptic communication through diverse mechanisms. Moreover, increasing evidence indicates that dysfunction of BK channel-mediated effects on neuronal excitability and synaptic function has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including epilepsy, fragile X syndrome, mental retardation, and autism, as well as in motor and cognitive behavior. Here, we discuss current evidence highlighting the physiological importance of this ubiquitous channel in regulating brain function and its role in the pathophysiology of different neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ancatén-González
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias, Mención Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Ignacio Segura
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Rosangelina Alvarado-Sánchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Biofísica y Biología Computacional, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Andrés E. Chávez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso (CINV), Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
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9
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Abstract
Lysosomes are acidic membrane-bound organelles that use hydrolytic enzymes to break down material through pathways such as endocytosis, phagocytosis, mitophagy, and autophagy. To function properly, intralysosomal environments are strictly controlled by a set of integral membrane proteins such as ion channels and transporters. Potassium ion (K+) channels are a large and diverse family of membrane proteins that control K+ flux across both the plasma membrane and intracellular membranes. In the plasma membrane, they are essential in both excitable and non-excitable cells for the control of membrane potential and cell signaling. However, our understanding of intracellular K+ channels is very limited. In this review, we summarize the recent development in studies of K+ channels in the lysosome. We focus on their characterization, potential roles in maintaining lysosomal membrane potential and lysosomal function, and pathological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengnan Xu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Yi Wu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Alia Kazim Rizvi Syeda
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Xian-Ping Dong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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10
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Lyu S, Xing H, Liu Y, Girdhar P, Yokoi F, Li Y. Further Studies on the Role of BTBD9 in the Cerebellum, Sleep-like Behaviors and the Restless Legs Syndrome. Neuroscience 2022; 505:78-90. [PMID: 36244636 PMCID: PMC10367443 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Genetic analyses have linked BTBD9 to restless legs syndrome (RLS) and sleep regulation. Btbd9 knockout mice show RLS-like motor restlessness. Previously, we found hyperactivity of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) in Btbd9 knockout mice, which may contribute to the motor restlessness observed. However, underlying mechanisms for PC hyperactivity in Btbd9 knockout mice are unknown. Here, we used dissociated PC recording, brain slice recording and western blot to address this question. Our dissociated recording shows that knockout PCs had increased TEA-sensitive, Ca2+-dependent K+ currents. Applying antagonist to large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels further isolated the increased current as BK current. Consistently, we found increased amplitude of afterhyperpolarization and elevated BK protein levels in the knockout mice. Dissociated recording also shows a decrease in TEA-insensitive, Ca2+-dependent K+ currents. The result is consistent with reduced amplitude of tail currents, mainly composed of small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) currents, in slice recording. Our results suggest that BK and SK channels may be responsible for the hyperactivity of knockout PCs. Recently, BTBD9 protein was shown to associate with SYNGAP1 protein. We found a decreased cerebellar level of SYNGAP1 in Btbd9 knockout mice. However, Syngap1 heterozygous knockout mice showed nocturnal, instead of diurnal, motor restlessness. Our results suggest that SYNGAP1 deficiency may not contribute directly to the RLS-like motor restlessness observed in Btbd9 knockout mice. Finally, we found that PC-specific Btbd9 knockout mice exhibited deficits in motor coordination and balance similar to Btbd9 knockout mice, suggesting that the motor effect of BTBD9 in PCs is cell-autonomous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangru Lyu
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hong Xing
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yuning Liu
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Pallavi Girdhar
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fumiaki Yokoi
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yuqing Li
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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11
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Park SM, Roache CE, Iffland PH, Moldenhauer HJ, Matychak KK, Plante AE, Lieberman AG, Crino PB, Meredith A. BK channel properties correlate with neurobehavioral severity in three KCNMA1-linked channelopathy mouse models. eLife 2022; 11:e77953. [PMID: 35819138 PMCID: PMC9275823 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1 forms the pore of BK K+ channels, which regulate neuronal and muscle excitability. Recently, genetic screening identified heterozygous KCNMA1 variants in a subset of patients with debilitating paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesia, presenting with or without epilepsy (PNKD3). However, the relevance of KCNMA1 mutations and the basis for clinical heterogeneity in PNKD3 has not been established. Here, we evaluate the relative severity of three KCNMA1 patient variants in BK channels, neurons, and mice. In heterologous cells, BKN999S and BKD434G channels displayed gain-of-function (GOF) properties, whereas BKH444Q channels showed loss-of-function (LOF) properties. The relative degree of channel activity was BKN999S > BKD434G>WT > BKH444Q. BK currents and action potential firing were increased, and seizure thresholds decreased, in Kcnma1N999S/WT and Kcnma1D434G/WT transgenic mice but not Kcnma1H444Q/WT mice. In a novel behavioral test for paroxysmal dyskinesia, the more severely affected Kcnma1N999S/WT mice became immobile after stress. This was abrogated by acute dextroamphetamine treatment, consistent with PNKD3-affected individuals. Homozygous Kcnma1D434G/D434G mice showed similar immobility, but in contrast, homozygous Kcnma1H444Q/H444Q mice displayed hyperkinetic behavior. These data establish the relative pathogenic potential of patient alleles as N999S>D434G>H444Q and validate Kcnma1N999S/WT mice as a model for PNKD3 with increased seizure propensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Mi Park
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Cooper E Roache
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Philip H Iffland
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Hans J Moldenhauer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Katia K Matychak
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Abby G Lieberman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Peter B Crino
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Andrea Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
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12
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Liang L, Liu H, Bartholdi D, van Haeringen A, Fernandez‐Jaén A, Peeters EEA, Xiong H, Bai X, Xu C, Ke T, Wang QK. Identification and functional analysis of two new de novo KCNMA1 variants associated with Liang-Wang syndrome. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 235:e13800. [PMID: 35156297 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM Loss-of-function KCNMA1 variants cause Liang-Wang syndrome (MIM #618729), a newly identified multiple malformation syndrome with a broad spectrum of developmental and neurological phenotypes. However, the full spectrum of clinical features and underlying pathogenic mechanisms need full elucidation. METHODS Exome sequencing was used to identify pathogenic variants. Patch-clamp recordings were performed to access the effects of KCNMA1 variants on BK channels. Total and membrane protein expression levels of BK channels were characterized using Western blotting. RESULTS We report identification and functional characterization of two new de novo loss-of-function KCNMA1 variants p.(A172T) and p.(A314T) with characteristics of Liang-Wang syndrome. Variant p.(A172T) is associated with developmental delay, cognitive impairment and ataxia. Mechanistically, p.(A172T) abolishes BK potassium current, inhibits Mg2+ -dependent gating, but shifts conductance-voltage (G-V) curves to more positive potentials when complexed with WT channels. Variant p.(A314T) is associated with developmental delay, intellectual disability, cognitive impairment, mild ataxia and generalized epilepsy; suppresses BK current amplitude; and shifts G-V curves to more positive potentials when expressed with WT channels. In addition, two new patients with previously reported gain-of-function variants p.(N536H) and p.(N995S) are found to show epilepsy and paroxysmal dyskinesia as reported previously, but also exhibit additional symptoms of cognitive impairment and dysmorphic features. Furthermore, variants p.(A314T) and p.(N536H) reduced total and membrane levels of BK proteins. CONCLUSION Our findings identified two new loss-of-function mutations of KCNMA1 associated with Liang-Wang syndrome, expanded the spectrum of clinical features associated with gain-of-function KCNMA1 variants and emphasized the overlapping features shared by gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Liang
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Huihui Liu
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Deborah Bartholdi
- Department of Human Genetics, Inselspital University Hospital Bern Bern Switzerland
| | - Arie van Haeringen
- Department of Clinical Genetics Leiden University Medical Center Leiden the Netherlands
| | - Alberto Fernandez‐Jaén
- Hospital Universitario Quirónsalud School of Medicine Universidad Europea de Madrid Madrid Spain
| | - Els E. A. Peeters
- Department of Child Neurology Juliana Children’s Hospital HAGA Medical Center The Hague the Netherlands
| | - Hongbo Xiong
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Xuemei Bai
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Chengqi Xu
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Tie Ke
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
| | - Qing K. Wang
- Center for Human Genome Research Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology Wuhan P. R. China
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13
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Sanghvi S, Szteyn K, Ponnalagu D, Sridharan D, Lam A, Hansra I, Chaudhury A, Majumdar U, Kohut AR, Gururaja Rao S, Khan M, Garg V, Singh H. Inhibition of BK Ca channels protects neonatal hearts against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:175. [PMID: 35393410 PMCID: PMC8989942 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00980-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BKCa channels are large-conductance calcium and voltage-activated potassium channels that are heterogeneously expressed in a wide array of cells. Activation of BKCa channels present in mitochondria of adult ventricular cardiomyocytes is implicated in cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. However, the BKCa channel’s activity has never been detected in the plasma membrane of adult ventricular cardiomyocytes. In this study, we report the presence of the BKCa channel in the plasma membrane and mitochondria of neonatal murine and rodent cardiomyocytes, which protects the heart on inhibition but not activation. Furthermore, K+ currents measured in neonatal cardiomyocyte (NCM) was sensitive to iberiotoxin (IbTx), suggesting the presence of BKCa channels in the plasma membrane. Neonatal hearts subjected to IR when post-conditioned with NS1619 during reoxygenation increased the myocardial infarction whereas IbTx reduced the infarct size. In agreement, isolated NCM also presented increased apoptosis on treatment with NS1619 during hypoxia and reoxygenation, whereas IbTx reduced TUNEL-positive cells. In NCMs, activation of BKCa channels increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species post HR injury. Electrophysiological characterization of NCMs indicated that NS1619 increased the beat period, field, and action potential duration, and decreased the conduction velocity and spike amplitude. In contrast, IbTx had no impact on the electrophysiological properties of NCMs. Taken together, our data established that inhibition of plasma membrane BKCa channels in the NCM protects neonatal heart/cardiomyocytes from IR injury. Furthermore, the functional disparity observed towards the cardioprotective activity of BKCa channels in adults compared to neonatal heart could be attributed to their differential localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shridhar Sanghvi
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kalina Szteyn
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Devasena Ponnalagu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Divya Sridharan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alexander Lam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Inderjot Hansra
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ankur Chaudhury
- Department of Internal Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Uddalak Majumdar
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrew R Kohut
- Department of Internal Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shubha Gururaja Rao
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, The Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH, USA
| | - Mahmood Khan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Vidu Garg
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Harpreet Singh
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA. .,Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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14
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Wu Y, Xu M, Wang P, Syeda AKR, Huang P, Dong XP. Lysosomal potassium channels. Cell Calcium 2022; 102:102536. [PMID: 35016151 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2022.102536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The lysosome is an important membrane-bound acidic organelle that is regarded as the degradative center as well as multifunctional signaling hub. It digests unwanted macromolecules, damaged organelles, microbes, and other materials derived from endocytosis, autophagy, and phagocytosis. To function properly, the ionic homeostasis and membrane potential of the lysosome are strictly regulated by transporters and ion channels. As the most abundant cation inside the cell, potassium ions (K+) are vital for lysosomal membrane potential and lysosomal calcium (Ca2+) signaling. However, our understanding about how lysosomal K+homeostasis is regulated and what are the functions of K+in the lysosome is very limited. Currently, two lysosomal K+channels have been identified: large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+channel (BK) and transmembrane Protein 175 (TMEM175). In this review, we summarize recent development in our understanding of K+ homeostasis and K+channels in the lysosome. We hope to guide the readers into a more in-depth discussion of lysosomal K+ channels in lysosomal physiology and human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 279 Zhouzhu Rd, Shanghai 201318, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 279 Zhouzhu Rd, Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Mengnan Xu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, 5850 College Street, Halifax, Nova NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Pingping Wang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, 5850 College Street, Halifax, Nova NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Alia Kazim Rizvi Syeda
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, 5850 College Street, Halifax, Nova NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Peng Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 279 Zhouzhu Rd, Shanghai 201318, China; School of Clinical Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 279 Zhouzhu Rd, Shanghai 201318, China.
| | - Xian-Ping Dong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building, 5850 College Street, Halifax, Nova NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
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15
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Sanghvi S, Szteyn K, Ponnalagu D, Sridharan D, Lam A, Hansra I, Chaudhury A, Majumdar U, Kohut AR, Rao SG, Khan M, Garg V, Singh H. Inhibition of BK Ca channels protects neonatal hearts against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury.. [DOI: 10.1101/2021.11.02.466585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/19/2023]
Abstract
AbstractBKCa channels are large-conductance calcium and voltage-activated potassium channels that are heterogeneously expressed in a wide array of cells. Activation of BKCa channels present in mitochondria of adult ventricular cardiomyocytes is implicated in cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. However, the BKCa channel’s activity has never been detected in the plasma membrane of adult ventricular cardiomyocytes. In this study, we report the presence of the BKCa channel in the plasma membrane and mitochondria of neonatal murine and rodent cardiomyocytes which protects the heart on inhibition but not activation. Furthermore, K+ currents measured in neonatal cardiomyocyte (NCM) was sensitive to iberiotoxin (IbTx), suggesting the presence of BKCa channels in the plasma membrane. Neonatal hearts subjected to IR when post-conditioned with NS1619 during reoxygenation increased the myocardial infarction whereas IbTx reduced the infarct size. In agreement, isolated NCM also presented increased apoptosis on treatment with NS1619 during hypoxia and reoxygenation, whereas IbTx reduced TUNEL positive cells. In NCMs, activation of BKCa channels increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species post HR injury. Electrophysiological characterization of NCMs indicated that NS1619 increased the beat period, field, and action potential duration, and decreased the conduction velocity and spike amplitude. In contrast, IbTx had no impact on the electrophysiological properties of NCMs. Taken together, our data established that inhibition of plasma membrane BKCa channels in the NCM protects neonatal heart/cardiomyocytes from IR injury. Furthermore, the functional disparity observed towards the cardioprotective activity of BKCa channels in adults compared to neonatal heart could be attributed to their differential localization.
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16
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McNally BA, Plante AE, Meredith AL. Contributions of Ca V1.3 Channels to Ca 2+ Current and Ca 2+-Activated BK Current in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus. Front Physiol 2021; 12:737291. [PMID: 34650447 PMCID: PMC8505962 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.737291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Daily regulation of Ca2+– and voltage-activated BK K+ channel activity is required for action potential rhythmicity in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, the brain's circadian clock. In SCN neurons, BK activation is dependent upon multiple types of Ca2+ channels in a circadian manner. Daytime BK current predominantly requires Ca2+ influx through L-type Ca2+ channels (LTCCs), a time when BK channels are closely coupled with their Ca2+ source. Here we show that daytime BK current is resistant to the Ca2+ chelator BAPTA. However, at night when LTCCs contribute little to BK activation, BK current decreases by a third in BAPTA compared to control EGTA conditions. In phase with this time-of-day specific effect on BK current activation, LTCC current is larger during the day. The specific Ca2+ channel subtypes underlying the LTCC current in SCN, as well as the subtypes contributing the Ca2+ influx relevant for BK current activation, have not been identified. SCN neurons express two LTCC subtypes, CaV1.2 and CaV1.3. While a role for CaV1.2 channels has been identified during the night, CaV1.3 channel modulation has also been suggested to contribute to daytime SCN action potential activity, as well as subthreshold Ca2+ oscillations. Here we characterize the role of CaV1.3 channels in LTCC and BK current activation in SCN neurons using a global deletion of CACNA1D in mouse (CaV1.3 KO). CaV1.3 KO SCN neurons had a 50% reduction in the daytime LTCC current, but not total Ca2+ current, with no difference in Ca2+ current levels at night. During the day, CaV1.3 KO neurons exhibited oscillations in membrane potential, and most neurons, although not all, also had BK currents. Changes in BK current activation were only detectable at the highest voltage tested. These data show that while CaV1.3 channels contribute to the daytime Ca2+ current, this does not translate into a major effect on the daytime BK current. These data suggest that BK current activation does not absolutely require CaV1.3 channels and may therefore also depend on other LTCC subtypes, such as CaV1.2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A McNally
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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17
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Miller JP, Moldenhauer HJ, Keros S, Meredith AL. An emerging spectrum of variants and clinical features in KCNMA1-linked channelopathy. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:447-464. [PMID: 34224328 PMCID: PMC8259716 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2021.1938852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1-linked channelopathy is an emerging neurological disorder characterized by heterogeneous and overlapping combinations of movement disorder, seizure, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. KCNMA1 encodes the BK K+ channel, which contributes to both excitatory and inhibitory neuronal and muscle activity. Understanding the basis of the disorder is an important area of active investigation; however, the rare prevalence has hampered the development of large patient cohorts necessary to establish genotype-phenotype correlations. In this review, we summarize 37 KCNMA1 alleles from 69 patients currently defining the channelopathy and assess key diagnostic and clinical hallmarks. At present, 3 variants are classified as gain-of-function with respect to BK channel activity, 14 loss-of-function, 15 variants of uncertain significance, and putative benign/VUS. Symptoms associated with these variants were curated from patient-provided information and prior publications to define the spectrum of clinical phenotypes. In this newly expanded cohort, seizures showed no differential distribution between patients harboring GOF and LOF variants, while movement disorders segregated by mutation type. Paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesia was predominantly observed among patients with GOF alleles of the BK channel, although not exclusively so, while additional movement disorders were observed in patients with LOF variants. Neurodevelopmental and structural brain abnormalities were prevalent in patients with LOF mutations. In contrast to mutations, disease-associated KCNMA1 single nucleotide polymorphisms were not predominantly related to neurological phenotypes but covered a wider set of peripheral physiological functions. Together, this review provides additional evidence exploring the genetic and biochemical basis for KCNMA1-linked channelopathy and summarizes the clinical repository of patient symptoms across multiple types of KCNMA1 gene variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob P Miller
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hans J Moldenhauer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sotirios Keros
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Plante AE, Whitt JP, Meredith AL. BK channel activation by L-type Ca 2+ channels Ca V1.2 and Ca V1.3 during the subthreshold phase of an action potential. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:427-439. [PMID: 34191630 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00089.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian circadian (24 h) rhythms are timed by the pattern of spontaneous action potential firing in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). This oscillation in firing is produced through circadian regulation of several membrane currents, including large-conductance Ca2+- and voltage-activated K+ (BK) and L-type Ca2+ channel (LTCC) currents. During the day steady-state BK currents depend mostly on LTCCs for activation, whereas at night they depend predominantly on ryanodine receptors (RyRs). However, the contribution of these Ca2+ channels to BK channel activation during action potential firing has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we used a pharmacological approach to determine that both LTCCs and RyRs contribute to the baseline membrane potential of SCN action potential waveforms, as well as action potential-evoked BK current, during the day and night, respectively. Since the baseline membrane potential is a major determinant of circadian firing rate, we focused on the LTCCs contributing to low voltage activation of BK channels during the subthreshold phase. For these experiments, two LTCC subtypes found in SCN (CaV1.2 and CaV1.3) were coexpressed with BK channels in heterologous cells, where their differential contributions could be separately measured. CaV1.3 channels produced currents that were shifted to more hyperpolarized potentials compared with CaV1.2, resulting in increased subthreshold Ca2+ and BK currents during an action potential command. These results show that although multiple Ca2+ sources in SCN can contribute to the activation of BK current during an action potential, specific BK-CaV1.3 partnerships may optimize the subthreshold BK current activation that is critical for firing rate regulation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY BK K+ channels are important regulators of firing. Although Ca2+ channels are required for their activation in excitable cells, it is not well understood how BK channels activate using these Ca2+ sources during an action potential. This study demonstrates the differences in BK current activated by CaV1.2 and CaV1.3 channels in clock neurons and heterologous cells. The results define how specific ion channel partnerships can be engaged during distinct phases of the action potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua P Whitt
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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19
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Mutations and Protein Interaction Landscape Reveal Key Cellular Events Perturbed in Upper Motor Neurons with HSP and PLS. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050578. [PMID: 33947096 PMCID: PMC8146506 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) are rare motor neuron diseases, which affect mostly the upper motor neurons (UMNs) in patients. The UMNs display early vulnerability and progressive degeneration, while other cortical neurons mostly remain functional. Identification of numerous mutations either directly linked or associated with HSP and PLS begins to reveal the genetic component of UMN diseases. Since each of these mutations are identified on genes that code for a protein, and because cellular functions mostly depend on protein-protein interactions, we hypothesized that the mutations detected in patients and the alterations in protein interaction domains would hold the key to unravel the underlying causes of their vulnerability. In an effort to bring a mechanistic insight, we utilized computational analyses to identify interaction partners of proteins and developed the protein-protein interaction landscape with respect to HSP and PLS. Protein-protein interaction domains, upstream regulators and canonical pathways begin to highlight key cellular events. Here we report that proteins involved in maintaining lipid homeostasis and cytoarchitectural dynamics and their interactions are of great importance for UMN health and stability. Their perturbation may result in neuronal vulnerability, and thus maintaining their balance could offer therapeutic interventions.
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20
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BK Channel Regulation of Afterpotentials and Burst Firing in Cerebellar Purkinje Neurons. J Neurosci 2021; 41:2854-2869. [PMID: 33593855 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0192-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BK calcium-activated potassium channels have complex kinetics because they are activated by both voltage and cytoplasmic calcium. The timing of BK activation and deactivation during action potentials determines their functional role in regulating firing patterns but is difficult to predict a priori. We used action potential clamp to characterize the kinetics of voltage-dependent calcium current and BK current during action potentials in Purkinje neurons from mice of both sexes, using acutely dissociated neurons that enabled rapid voltage clamp at 37°C. With both depolarizing voltage steps and action potential waveforms, BK current was entirely dependent on calcium entry through voltage-dependent calcium channels. With voltage steps, BK current greatly outweighed the triggering calcium current, with only a brief, small net inward calcium current before Ca-activated BK current dominated the total Ca-dependent current. During action potential waveforms, although BK current activated with only a short (∼100 μs) delay after calcium current, the two currents were largely separated, with calcium current flowing during the falling phase of the action potential and most BK current flowing over several milliseconds after repolarization. Step depolarizations activated both an iberiotoxin-sensitive BK component with rapid activation and deactivation kinetics and a slower-gating iberiotoxin-resistant component. During action potential firing, however, almost all BK current came from the faster-gating iberiotoxin-sensitive channels, even during bursts of action potentials. Inhibiting BK current had little effect on action potential width or a fast afterhyperpolarization but converted a medium afterhyperpolarization to an afterdepolarization and could convert tonic firing of single action potentials to burst firing.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT BK calcium-activated potassium channels are widely expressed in central neurons. Altered function of BK channels is associated with epilepsy and other neuronal disorders, including cerebellar ataxia. The functional role of BK in regulating neuronal firing patterns is highly dependent on the context of other channels and varies widely among different types of neurons. Most commonly, BK channels are activated during action potentials and help produce a fast afterhyperpolarization. We find that in Purkinje neurons BK current flows primarily after the fast afterhyperpolarization and helps to prevent a later afterdepolarization from producing rapid burst firing, enabling typical regular tonic firing.
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21
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Sun AX, Yuan Q, Fukuda M, Yu W, Yan H, Lim GGY, Nai MH, D'Agostino GA, Tran HD, Itahana Y, Wang D, Lokman H, Itahana K, Lim SWL, Tang J, Chang YY, Zhang M, Cook SA, Rackham OJL, Lim CT, Tan EK, Ng HH, Lim KL, Jiang YH, Je HS. Potassium channel dysfunction in human neuronal models of Angelman syndrome. Science 2020; 366:1486-1492. [PMID: 31857479 DOI: 10.1126/science.aav5386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Disruptions in the ubiquitin protein ligase E3A (UBE3A) gene cause Angelman syndrome (AS). Whereas AS model mice have associated synaptic dysfunction and altered plasticity with abnormal behavior, whether similar or other mechanisms contribute to network hyperactivity and epilepsy susceptibility in AS patients remains unclear. Using human neurons and brain organoids, we demonstrate that UBE3A suppresses neuronal hyperexcitability via ubiquitin-mediated degradation of calcium- and voltage-dependent big potassium (BK) channels. We provide evidence that augmented BK channel activity manifests as increased intrinsic excitability in individual neurons and subsequent network synchronization. BK antagonists normalized neuronal excitability in both human and mouse neurons and ameliorated seizure susceptibility in an AS mouse model. Our findings suggest that BK channelopathy underlies epilepsy in AS and support the use of human cells to model human developmental diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred Xuyang Sun
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore. .,Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Qiang Yuan
- Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore.,Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Masahiro Fukuda
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Weonjin Yu
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Haidun Yan
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Grace Gui Yin Lim
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Mui Hoon Nai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | | | - Hoang-Dai Tran
- Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Yoko Itahana
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore
| | - Danlei Wang
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Hidayat Lokman
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Koji Itahana
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore
| | - Stephanie Wai Lin Lim
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Jiong Tang
- Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138667, Singapore
| | - Ya Yin Chang
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore
| | - Menglan Zhang
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Stuart A Cook
- Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Owen J L Rackham
- Program in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Eng King Tan
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore.,Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Huck Hui Ng
- Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - Kah Leong Lim
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308433, Singapore.,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Hyunsoo Shawn Je
- Signature Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore. .,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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22
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Harvey JRM, Plante AE, Meredith AL. Ion Channels Controlling Circadian Rhythms in Suprachiasmatic Nucleus Excitability. Physiol Rev 2020; 100:1415-1454. [PMID: 32163720 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00027.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals synchronize to the environmental day-night cycle by means of an internal circadian clock in the brain. In mammals, this timekeeping mechanism is housed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus and is entrained by light input from the retina. One output of the SCN is a neural code for circadian time, which arises from the collective activity of neurons within the SCN circuit and comprises two fundamental components: 1) periodic alterations in the spontaneous excitability of individual neurons that result in higher firing rates during the day and lower firing rates at night, and 2) synchronization of these cellular oscillations throughout the SCN. In this review, we summarize current evidence for the identity of ion channels in SCN neurons and the mechanisms by which they set the rhythmic parameters of the time code. During the day, voltage-dependent and independent Na+ and Ca2+ currents, as well as several K+ currents, contribute to increased membrane excitability and therefore higher firing frequency. At night, an increase in different K+ currents, including Ca2+-activated BK currents, contribute to membrane hyperpolarization and decreased firing. Layered on top of these intrinsically regulated changes in membrane excitability, more than a dozen neuromodulators influence action potential activity and rhythmicity in SCN neurons, facilitating both synchronization and plasticity of the neural code.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna R M Harvey
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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23
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Forsyth JK, Nachun D, Gandal MJ, Geschwind DH, Anderson AE, Coppola G, Bearden CE. Synaptic and Gene Regulatory Mechanisms in Schizophrenia, Autism, and 22q11.2 Copy Number Variant-Mediated Risk for Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2020; 87:150-163. [PMID: 31500805 PMCID: PMC6925326 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND 22q11.2 copy number variants are among the most highly penetrant genetic risk variants for developmental neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the specific mechanisms through which they confer risk remain unclear. METHODS Using a functional genomics approach, we integrated transcriptomic data from the developing human brain, genome-wide association findings for SCZ and ASD, protein interaction data, and gene expression signatures from SCZ and ASD postmortem cortex to 1) organize genes into the developmental cellular and molecular systems within which they operate, 2) identify neurodevelopmental processes associated with polygenic risk for SCZ and ASD across the allelic frequency spectrum, and 3) elucidate pathways and individual genes through which 22q11.2 copy number variants may confer risk for each disorder. RESULTS Polygenic risk for SCZ and ASD converged on partially overlapping neurodevelopmental modules involved in synaptic function and transcriptional regulation, with ASD risk variants additionally enriched for modules involved in neuronal differentiation during fetal development. The 22q11.2 locus formed a large protein network during development that disproportionately affected SCZ-associated and ASD-associated neurodevelopmental modules, including loading highly onto synaptic and gene regulatory pathways. SEPT5, PI4KA, and SNAP29 genes are candidate drivers of 22q11.2 synaptic pathology relevant to SCZ and ASD, and DGCR8 and HIRA are candidate drivers of disease-relevant alterations in gene regulation. CONCLUSIONS This approach offers a powerful framework to identify neurodevelopmental processes affected by diverse risk variants for SCZ and ASD and elucidate mechanisms through which highly penetrant, multigene copy number variants contribute to disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Forsyth
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Daniel Nachun
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael J Gandal
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Daniel H Geschwind
- Department of Human Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ariana E Anderson
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Giovanni Coppola
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Carrie E Bearden
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
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24
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Moldenhauer HJ, Matychak KK, Meredith AL. Comparative gain-of-function effects of the KCNMA1-N999S mutation on human BK channel properties. J Neurophysiol 2019; 123:560-570. [PMID: 31851553 PMCID: PMC7052641 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00626.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
KCNMA1, encoding the voltage- and calcium-activated potassium channel, has a pivotal role in brain physiology. Mutations in KCNMA1 are associated with epilepsy and/or dyskinesia (PNKD3). Two KCNMA1 mutations correlated with these phenotypes, D434G and N999S, were previously identified as producing gain-of-function (GOF) effects on BK channel activity. Three new patients have been reported harboring N999S, one carrying a second mutation, R1128W, but the effects of these mutations have not yet been reported under physiological K+ conditions or compared to D434G. In this study, we characterize N999S, the novel N999S/R1128W double mutation, and D434G in a brain BK channel splice variant, comparing the effects on BK current properties under a physiological K+ gradient with action potential voltage commands. N999S, N999S/R1128W, and D434G cDNAs were expressed in HEK293T cells and characterized by patch-clamp electrophysiology. N999S BK currents were shifted to negative potentials, with faster activation and slower deactivation compared with wild type (WT) and D434G. The double mutation N999S/R1128W did not show any additional changes in current properties compared with N999S alone. The antiepileptic drug acetazolamide was assessed for its ability to directly modulate WT and N999S channels. Neither the WT nor N999S channels were sensitive to the antiepileptic drug acetazolamide, but both were sensitive to the inhibitor paxilline. We conclude that N999S is a strong GOF mutation that surpasses the D434G phenotype, without mitigation by R1128W. Acetazolamide has no direct modulatory action on either WT or N999S channels, indicating that its use may not be contraindicated in patients harboring GOF KCNMA1 mutations.NEW & NOTEWORTHY KCNMA1-linked channelopathy is a new neurological disorder characterized by mutations in the BK voltage- and calcium-activated potassium channel. The epilepsy- and dyskinesia-associated gain-of-function mutations N999S and D434G comprise the largest number of patients in the cohort. This study provides the first direct comparison between D434G and N999S BK channel properties as well as a novel double mutation, N999S/R1128W, from another patient, defining the functional effects during an action potential stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans J Moldenhauer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Katia K Matychak
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.,Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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25
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Plante AE, Lai MH, Lu J, Meredith AL. Effects of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Human KCNMA1 on BK Current Properties. Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:285. [PMID: 31849601 PMCID: PMC6901604 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BK Ca2+-activated K+ channels are important regulators of membrane excitability. Multiple regulatory mechanisms tailor BK current properties across tissues, such as alternative splicing, posttranslational modifications, and auxiliary subunits. Another potential mechanism for modulating BK channel activity is genetic variation due to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The gene encoding the human BK α subunit, KCNMA1, contains hundreds of SNPs. However, the variation in BK channel activity due to SNPs is not well studied. Here, we screened the effects of four SNPs (A138V, C495G, N599D, and R800W) on BK currents in HEK293T cells, selected based on predicted protein pathogenicity or disease linkage. We found that the SNPs C495G and R800W had the largest effects on BK currents, affecting the conductance–voltage relationship across multiple Ca2+ conditions in the context of two BK channel splice variants. In symmetrical K+, C495G shifted the V1/2 to more hyperpolarized potentials (by −15 to −20 mV) and accelerated activation, indicating C495G confers some gain-of-function properties. R800W shifted the V1/2 to more depolarized potentials (+15 to +35 mV) and slowed activation, conferring loss-of-function properties. Moreover, the C495G and R800W effects on current properties were found to persist with posttranslational modifications. In contrast, A138V and N599D had smaller and more variable effects on current properties. Neither application of alkaline phosphatase to patches, which results in increased BK channel activity attributed to channel dephosphorylation, nor bidirectional redox modulations completely abrogated SNP effects on BK currents. Lastly, in physiological K+, C495G increased the amplitude of action potential (AP)-evoked BK currents, while R800W had a more limited effect. However, the introduction of R800W in parallel with the epilepsy-linked mutation D434G (D434G/R800W) decreased the amplitude of AP-evoked BK currents compared with D434G alone. These results suggest that in a physiological context, C495G could increase BK activation, while the effects of the loss-of-function SNP R800W could oppose the gain-of-function effects of an epilepsy-linked mutation. Together, these results implicate naturally occurring human genetic variation as a potential modifier of BK channel activity across a variety of conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber E Plante
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael H Lai
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jessica Lu
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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26
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Bailey CS, Moldenhauer HJ, Park SM, Keros S, Meredith AL. KCNMA1-linked channelopathy. J Gen Physiol 2019; 151:1173-1189. [PMID: 31427379 PMCID: PMC6785733 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bailey et al. review a new neurological channelopathy associated with KCNMA1, encoding the BK voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel. KCNMA1 encodes the pore-forming α subunit of the “Big K+” (BK) large conductance calcium and voltage-activated K+ channel. BK channels are widely distributed across tissues, including both excitable and nonexcitable cells. Expression levels are highest in brain and muscle, where BK channels are critical regulators of neuronal excitability and muscle contractility. A global deletion in mouse (KCNMA1−/−) is viable but exhibits pathophysiology in many organ systems. Yet despite the important roles in animal models, the consequences of dysfunctional BK channels in humans are not well characterized. Here, we summarize 16 rare KCNMA1 mutations identified in 37 patients dating back to 2005, with an array of clinically defined pathological phenotypes collectively referred to as “KCNMA1-linked channelopathy.” These mutations encompass gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function (LOF) alterations in BK channel activity, as well as several variants of unknown significance (VUS). Human KCNMA1 mutations are primarily associated with neurological conditions, including seizures, movement disorders, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Due to the recent identification of additional patients, the spectrum of symptoms associated with KCNMA1 mutations has expanded but remains primarily defined by brain and muscle dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests the functional BK channel alterations produced by different KCNMA1 alleles may associate with semi-distinct patient symptoms, such as paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia (PNKD) with GOF and ataxia with LOF. However, due to the de novo origins for the majority of KCNMA1 mutations identified to date and the phenotypic variability exhibited by patients, additional evidence is required to establish causality in most cases. The symptomatic picture developing from patients with KCNMA1-linked channelopathy highlights the importance of better understanding the roles BK channels play in regulating cell excitability. Establishing causality between KCNMA1-linked BK channel dysfunction and specific patient symptoms may reveal new treatment approaches with the potential to increase therapeutic efficacy over current standard regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole S Bailey
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hans J Moldenhauer
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Su Mi Park
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sotirios Keros
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Dept. of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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27
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An Epilepsy-Associated KCNT1 Mutation Enhances Excitability of Human iPSC-Derived Neurons by Increasing Slack K Na Currents. J Neurosci 2019; 39:7438-7449. [PMID: 31350261 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1628-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the KCNT1 (Slack, KNa1.1) sodium-activated potassium channel produce severe epileptic encephalopathies. Expression in heterologous systems has shown that the disease-causing mutations give rise to channels that have increased current amplitude. It is not known, however, whether such gain of function occurs in human neurons, nor whether such increased KNa current is expected to suppress or increase the excitability of cortical neurons. Using genetically engineered human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons, we have now found that sodium-dependent potassium currents are increased several-fold in neurons bearing a homozygous P924L mutation. In current-clamp recordings, the increased KNa current in neurons with the P924L mutation acts to shorten the duration of action potentials and to increase the amplitude of the afterhyperpolarization that follows each action potential. Strikingly, the number of action potentials that were evoked by depolarizing currents as well as maximal firing rates were increased in neurons expressing the mutant channel. In networks of spontaneously active neurons, the mean firing rate, the occurrence of rapid bursts of action potentials, and the intensity of firing during the burst were all increased in neurons with the P924L Slack mutation. The feasibility of an increased KNa current to increase firing rates independent of any compensatory changes was validated by numerical simulations. Our findings indicate that gain-of-function in Slack KNa channels causes hyperexcitability in both isolated neurons and in neural networks and occurs by a cell-autonomous mechanism that does not require network interactions.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT KCNT1 mutations lead to severe epileptic encephalopathies for which there are no effective treatments. This study is the first demonstration that a KCNT1 mutation increases the Slack current in neurons. It also provides the first explanation for how this increased potassium current induces hyperexcitability, which could be the underlining factor causing seizures.
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28
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Camara AKS, Stowe DF, O-Uchi J, Bazil JN. Editorial: Genetic Modification of Cardiac Tissue. Front Cardiovasc Med 2019; 6:93. [PMID: 31380395 PMCID: PMC6646414 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2019.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amadou K. S. Camara
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - David F. Stowe
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Jin O-Uchi
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jason N. Bazil
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Jason N. Bazil
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29
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Paul JR, Davis JA, Goode LK, Becker BK, Fusilier A, Meador-Woodruff A, Gamble KL. Circadian regulation of membrane physiology in neural oscillators throughout the brain. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 51:109-138. [PMID: 30633846 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Twenty-four-hour rhythmicity in physiology and behavior are driven by changes in neurophysiological activity that vary across the light-dark and rest-activity cycle. Although this neural code is most prominent in neurons of the primary circadian pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, there are many other regions in the brain where region-specific function and behavioral rhythmicity may be encoded by changes in electrical properties of those neurons. In this review, we explore the existing evidence for molecular clocks and/or neurophysiological rhythms (i.e., 24 hr) in brain regions outside the SCN. In addition, we highlight the brain regions that are ripe for future investigation into the critical role of circadian rhythmicity for local oscillators. For example, the cerebellum expresses rhythmicity in over 2,000 gene transcripts, and yet we know very little about how circadian regulation drives 24-hr changes in the neural coding responsible for motor coordination. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of how our understanding of circadian regulation of electrical properties may yield insight into disease mechanisms which may lead to novel chronotherapeutic strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi R Paul
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jennifer A Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Lacy K Goode
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Bryan K Becker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Allison Fusilier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Aidan Meador-Woodruff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Karen L Gamble
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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30
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Goswami SK, Ponnalagu D, Hussain AT, Shah K, Karekar P, Gururaja Rao S, Meredith AL, Khan M, Singh H. Expression and Activation of BK Ca Channels in Mice Protects Against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury of Isolated Hearts by Modulating Mitochondrial Function. Front Cardiovasc Med 2019; 5:194. [PMID: 30746365 PMCID: PMC6360169 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Activation and expression of large conductance calcium and voltage-activated potassium channel (BKCa) by pharmacological agents have been implicated in cardioprotection from ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury possibly by regulating mitochondrial function. Given the non-specific effects of pharmacological agents, it is not clear whether activation of BKCa is critical to cardioprotection. In this study, we aimed to decipher the mechanistic role of BKCa in cardioprotection from IR injury by genetically activating BKCa channels. Methods and Results: Hearts from adult (3 months old) wild-type mice (C57/BL6) and mice expressing genetically activated BKCa (Tg-BKCa R207Q, referred as Tg-BKCa) along with wild-type BKCa were subjected to 20 min of ischemia and 30 min of reperfusion with or without ischemic preconditioning (IPC, 2 times for 2.5 min interval each). Left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) was recorded using Millar's Mikrotip® catheter connected to ADInstrument data acquisition system. Myocardial infarction was quantified by 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Our results demonstrated that Tg-BKCa mice are protected from IR injury, and BKCa also contributes to IPC-mediated cardioprotection. Cardiac function parameters were also measured by echocardiography and no differences were observed in left ventricular ejection fraction, fractional shortening and aortic velocities. Amplex Red® was used to assess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in isolated mitochondria by spectrofluorometry. We found that genetic activation of BKCa reduces ROS after IR stress. Adult cardiomyocytes and mitochondria from Tg-BKCa mice were isolated and labeled with Anti-BKCa antibodies. Images acquired via confocal microscopy revealed localization of cardiac BKCa in the mitochondria. Conclusions: Activation of BKCa is essential for recovery of cardiac function after IR injury and is likely a factor in IPC mediated cardioprotection. Genetic activation of BKCa reduces ROS produced by complex I and complex II/III in Tg-BKCa mice after IR, and IPC further decreases it. These results implicate BKCa-mediated cardioprotection, in part, by reducing mitochondrial ROS production. Localization of Tg-BKCa in adult cardiomyocytes of transgenic mice was similar to BKCa in wild-type mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Kumar Goswami
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Devasena Ponnalagu
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ahmed T Hussain
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kajol Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Priyanka Karekar
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shubha Gururaja Rao
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mahmood Khan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Harpreet Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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31
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Kuljis D, Kudo T, Tahara Y, Ghiani CA, Colwell CS. Pathophysiology in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in mouse models of Huntington's disease. J Neurosci Res 2018; 96:1862-1875. [PMID: 30168855 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Disturbances in sleep/wake cycle are a common complaint of individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) and are displayed by HD mouse models. The underlying mechanisms, including the possible role of the circadian timing system, are not well established. The BACHD mouse model of HD exhibits disrupted behavioral and physiological rhythms, including decreased electrical activity in the central circadian clock (suprachiasmatic nucleus, SCN). In this study, electrophysiological techniques were used to explore the ionic underpinning of the reduced spontaneous neural activity in male mice. We found that SCN neural activity rhythms were lost early in the disease progression and was accompanied by loss of the normal daily variation in resting membrane potential in the mutant SCN neurons. The low neural activity could be transiently reversed by direct current injection or application of exogenous N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) thus demonstrating that the neurons have the capacity to discharge at WT levels. Exploring the potassium currents known to regulate the electrical activity of SCN neurons, our most striking finding was that these cells in the mutants exhibited an enhancement in the large-conductance calcium activated K+ (BK) currents. The expression of the pore forming subunit (Kcnma1) of the BK channel was higher in the mutant SCN. We found a similar decrease in daytime electrical activity and enhancement in the magnitude of the BK currents early in disease in another HD mouse model (Q175). These findings suggest that SCN neurons of both HD models exhibit early pathophysiology and that dysregulation of BK current may be responsible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dika Kuljis
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Biological Sciences, Mellon Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Takashi Kudo
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna-son, Japan
| | - Yu Tahara
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Cristina A Ghiani
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Christopher S Colwell
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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32
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Abstract
Exome and targeted sequencing have revolutionized clinical diagnosis. This has been particularly striking in epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disorders, for which new genes or new variants of preexisting candidate genes are being continuously identified at increasing rates every year. A surprising finding of these efforts is the recognition that gain of function potassium channel variants are actually associated with certain types of epilepsy, such as malignant migrating partial seizures of infancy or early-onset epileptic encephalopathy. This development has been difficult to understand as traditionally potassium channel loss-of-function, not gain-of-function, has been associated with hyperexcitability disorders. In this article, we describe the current state of the field regarding the gain-of-function potassium channel variants associated with epilepsy (KCNA2, KCNB1, KCND2, KCNH1, KCNH5, KCNJ10, KCNMA1, KCNQ2, KCNQ3, and KCNT1) and speculate on the possible cellular mechanisms behind the development of seizures and epilepsy in these patients. Understanding how potassium channel gain-of-function leads to epilepsy will provide new insights into the inner working of neural circuits and aid in developing new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Niday
- Dept. of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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33
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Calcium-regulated chloride channel anoctamin-1 is present in the suprachiasmatic nuclei of rats. Neuroreport 2018; 29:334-339. [PMID: 29309309 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000000967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Calcium-regulated chloride channel (CaCC) anoctamin-1 has been recently identified in neurons. In neurons, which express the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter, activation of CaCCs increases firing frequency, by reversion between the Cl equilibrium potential and the membrane resting potential, leading to membrane depolarization by Cl extrusion from the cell. Although there are no reports of CaCCs present in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the fact that Na-K-2Cl cotransporter is present in SCN neurons, where it has been shown to be involved in the excitatory effects of γ-aminobutyric acid, together with the increase of neuronal firing rate induced by release of intracellular Ca after administration of 100 nM ryanodine, leads us to determine whether CaCCs are present in the SCN. Immunohistochemistry and western blots show the expression of the CaCCs anoctamin-1 protein. Quantitative PCR demonstrated the expression of anoctamin-1 mRNA in the SCN. These results clearly indicate the presence of CaCC in SCN of rats.
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Authement ME, Langlois LD, Shepard RD, Browne CA, Lucki I, Kassis H, Nugent FS. A role for corticotropin-releasing factor signaling in the lateral habenula and its modulation by early-life stress. Sci Signal 2018; 11:11/520/eaan6480. [PMID: 29511121 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aan6480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Centrally released corticotropin-releasing factor or hormone (extrahypothalamic CRF or CRH) in the brain is involved in the behavioral and emotional responses to stress. The lateral habenula (LHb) is an epithalamic brain region involved in value-based decision-making and stress evasion. Through its inhibition of dopamine-mediated reward circuitry, the increased activity of the LHb is associated with addiction, depression, schizophrenia, and behavioral disorders. We found that extrahypothalamic CRF neurotransmission increased neuronal excitability in the LHb. Through its receptor CRFR1 and subsequently protein kinase A (PKA), CRF application increased the intrinsic excitability of LHb neurons by affecting changes in small-conductance SK-type and large-conductance BK-type K+ channels. CRF also reduced inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid-containing (GABAergic) synaptic transmission onto LHb neurons through endocannabinoid-mediated retrograde signaling. Maternal deprivation is a severe early-life stress that alters CRF neural circuitry and is likewise associated with abnormal mental health later in life. LHb neurons from pups deprived of maternal care exhibited increased intrinsic excitability, reduced GABAergic transmission, decreased abundance of SK2 channel protein, and increased activity of PKA, without any substantial changes in Crh or Crhr1 expression. Furthermore, maternal deprivation blunted the response of LHb neurons to subsequent, acute CRF exposure. Activating SK channels or inhibiting postsynaptic PKA activity prevented the effects of both CRF and maternal deprivation on LHb intrinsic excitability, thus identifying potential pharmacological targets to reverse central CRF circuit dysregulation in patients with associated disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Authement
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Ludovic D Langlois
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Ryan D Shepard
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Caroline A Browne
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Haifa Kassis
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Fereshteh S Nugent
- Department of Pharmacology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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Belle MDC, Diekman CO. Neuronal oscillations on an ultra-slow timescale: daily rhythms in electrical activity and gene expression in the mammalian master circadian clockwork. Eur J Neurosci 2018; 48:2696-2717. [PMID: 29396876 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal oscillations of the brain, such as those observed in the cortices and hippocampi of behaving animals and humans, span across wide frequency bands, from slow delta waves (0.1 Hz) to ultra-fast ripples (600 Hz). Here, we focus on ultra-slow neuronal oscillators in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the master daily clock that operates on interlocking transcription-translation feedback loops to produce circadian rhythms in clock gene expression with a period of near 24 h (< 0.001 Hz). This intracellular molecular clock interacts with the cell's membrane through poorly understood mechanisms to drive the daily pattern in the electrical excitability of SCN neurons, exhibiting an up-state during the day and a down-state at night. In turn, the membrane activity feeds back to regulate the oscillatory activity of clock gene programs. In this review, we emphasise the circadian processes that drive daily electrical oscillations in SCN neurons, and highlight how mathematical modelling contributes to our increasing understanding of circadian rhythm generation, synchronisation and communication within this hypothalamic region and across other brain circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mino D C Belle
- Institute of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4PS, UK
| | - Casey O Diekman
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA.,Institute for Brain and Neuroscience Research, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA
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Whitmire LE, Ling L, Bugay V, Carver CM, Timilsina S, Chuang HH, Jaffe DB, Shapiro MS, Cavazos JE, Brenner R. Downregulation of KCNMB4 expression and changes in BK channel subtype in hippocampal granule neurons following seizure activity. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188064. [PMID: 29145442 PMCID: PMC5690595 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge is to understand maladaptive changes in ion channels that sets neurons on a course towards epilepsy development. Voltage- and calcium-activated K+ (BK) channels contribute to early spike timing in neurons, and studies indicate that the BK channel plays a pathological role in increasing excitability early after a seizure. Here, we have investigated changes in BK channels and their accessory β4 subunit (KCNMB4) in dentate gyrus (DG) granule neurons of the hippocampus, key neurons that regulate excitability of the hippocampus circuit. Two days after pilocarpine-induced seizures, we found that the predominant effect is a downregulation of the β4 accessory subunit mRNA. Consistent with reduced expression, single channel recording and pharmacology indicate a switch in the subtype of channels expressed; from iberiotoxin-resistant, type II BK channels (BK α/β4) that have higher channel open probability and slow gating, to iberiotoxin-sensitive type I channels (BK α alone) with low open probability and faster gating. The switch to a majority of type I channel expression following seizure activity is correlated with a loss of BK channel function on spike threshold while maintaining the channel’s contribution to increased early spike frequency. Using heterozygous β4 knockout mice, we find reduced expression is sufficient to increase seizure sensitivity. We conclude that seizure-induced downregulation of KCNMB4 is an activity dependent mechanism that increases the excitability of DG neurons. These novel findings indicate that BK channel subtypes are not only defined by cell-specific expression, but can also be plastic depending on the recent history of neuronal excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke E. Whitmire
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ling Ling
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Vladslav Bugay
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Chase M. Carver
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Santosh Timilsina
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Hui-Hsiu Chuang
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - David B. Jaffe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mark S. Shapiro
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jose E. Cavazos
- Neurology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Robert Brenner
- Department of Cell and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Clay JR. Novel description of the large conductance Ca 2+-modulated K + channel current, BK, during an action potential from suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons. Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/20/e13473. [PMID: 29084840 PMCID: PMC5661234 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The contribution of the large conductance, Ca2+‐modulated, voltage‐gated K+ channel current, IBK, to the total current during an action potential (AP) from suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neurons is described using a novel computational approach. An experimental recording of an SCN AP and the corresponding AP‐clamp recording of IBK from the literature were both digitized. The AP data set was applied computationally to a kinetic model of IBK that was based on results from a clone of the BK channel α subunit heterologolously expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The IBK model result during an AP was compared with the AP‐clamp recording of IBK. The comparison suggests that a change in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration does not have an immediate effect on BK channel kinetics. Rather, a delay of a few milliseconds may occur prior to the full effect of a change in Cai2+. As shown elsewhere, the β2 subunit of the BK channel in the SCN, which is present in the daytime along with the α subunit, shifts the BK channel activation curve leftward on the voltage axis relative to the activation curve of BK channels comprised of the α subunit alone. That shift may underlie the diurnal changes in electrical activity that occur in the SCN and it may also enhance the delay in the effect of a change in Cai2+ on BK kinetics reported here. The implication of these results for models of the AP for neurons in which BK channels are present is that an additional time dependent process may be required in the models, a process that describes the time dependence of the development of a change in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration on BK channel gating.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Clay
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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38
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Wang W, Zhang X, Gao Q, Lawas M, Yu L, Cheng X, Gu M, Sahoo N, Li X, Li P, Ireland S, Meredith A, Xu H. A voltage-dependent K + channel in the lysosome is required for refilling lysosomal Ca 2+ stores. J Cell Biol 2017; 216:1715-1730. [PMID: 28468834 PMCID: PMC5461029 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201612123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 03/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ion-dependent channels and transporters have been identified in lysosomes, including the V-ATPase H+ pump and transient receptor potential mucolipin channels (TRPMLs), the principle Ca2+ release channels in the lysosome, but much less is understood about the roles of Na+ and K+ in lysosomal physiology. Wang et al. describe a voltage-sensitive, Ca2+-activated K+ current in the lysosome (LysoKVCa) and show that LysoKVCa regulates lysosomal membrane potential and refilling of lysosomal Ca2+ stores. The resting membrane potential (Δψ) of the cell is negative on the cytosolic side and determined primarily by the plasma membrane’s selective permeability to K+. We show that lysosomal Δψ is set by lysosomal membrane permeabilities to Na+ and H+, but not K+, and is positive on the cytosolic side. An increase in juxta-lysosomal Ca2+ rapidly reversed lysosomal Δψ by activating a large voltage-dependent and K+-selective conductance (LysoKVCa). LysoKVCa is encoded molecularly by SLO1 proteins known for forming plasma membrane BK channels. Opening of single LysoKVCa channels is sufficient to cause the rapid, striking changes in lysosomal Δψ. Lysosomal Ca2+ stores may be refilled from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ via ER–lysosome membrane contact sites. We propose that LysoKVCa serves as the perilysosomal Ca2+ effector to prime lysosomes for the refilling process. Consistently, genetic ablation or pharmacological inhibition of LysoKVCa, or abolition of its Ca2+ sensitivity, blocks refilling and maintenance of lysosomal Ca2+ stores, resulting in lysosomal cholesterol accumulation and a lysosome storage phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuyang Wang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Qiong Gao
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Maria Lawas
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Xiping Cheng
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Mingxue Gu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Nirakar Sahoo
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Xinran Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Stephen Ireland
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Andrea Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Haoxing Xu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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Allen CN, Nitabach MN, Colwell CS. Membrane Currents, Gene Expression, and Circadian Clocks. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a027714. [PMID: 28246182 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a027714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal circadian oscillators in the mammalian and Drosophila brain express a circadian clock comprised of interlocking gene transcription feedback loops. The genetic clock regulates the membrane electrical activity by poorly understood signaling pathways to generate a circadian pattern of action potential firing. During the day, Na+ channels contribute an excitatory drive for the spontaneous activity of circadian clock neurons. Multiple types of K+ channels regulate the action potential firing pattern and the nightly reduction in neuronal activity. The membrane electrical activity possibly signaling by changes in intracellular Ca2+ and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) regulates the activity of the gene clock. A decline in the signaling pathways that link the gene clock and neural activity during aging and disease may weaken the circadian output and generate significant impacts on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles N Allen
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences and Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Michael N Nitabach
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520
| | - Christopher S Colwell
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90024
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Halm ST, Bottomley MA, Almutairi MM, Di Fulvio M, Halm DR. Survival and growth of C57BL/6J mice lacking the BK channel, Kcnma1: lower adult body weight occurs together with higher body fat. Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/4/e13137. [PMID: 28242822 PMCID: PMC5328773 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Big conductance potassium (BK) channels contribute to K+ flow and electrical behavior in many cell types. Mice made null for the gene (Kcnma1) producing the BK channel (BKKO) exhibit numerous deficits in physiological functions. Breeding mice lacking a single allele of Kcnma1 (C57BL/6J background) had litter sizes of approximately eight pups. For the period of maternal care (P0–P21), pup deaths peaked at P1 with a second less severe interval of death peaking near P13. Early deaths were twice as likely during a 20‐month period of building construction compared with the quiescent period after cessation of construction. Births during construction were not consistent with Mendelian predictions indicating the likelihood of a specific disadvantage induced by this environmental stressor. Later BKKO pup deaths (~P13) also were more numerous than Mendelian expectations. After weaning, weight gain was slower for BKKO mice compared with wild‐type littermates: 5 g less for male BKKO mice and 4 g less for female BKKO mice. Body composition determined by quantitative magnetic resonance indicated a higher fat proportion for wild‐type female mice compared with males, as well as a higher hydration ratio. Both male and female BKKO mice showed higher fat proportions than wild‐type, with female BKKO mice exhibiting greater variation. Together, these results indicate that BKKO mice suffered disadvantages that lead to prenatal and perinatal death. A metabolic difference likely related to glucose handling led to the smaller body size and distinct composition for BKKO mice, suggesting a diversion of energy supplies from growth to fat storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan T Halm
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Michael A Bottomley
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Statistical Consulting Center, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Mohammed M Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Maurico Di Fulvio
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Dan R Halm
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio
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41
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Regulation of persistent sodium currents by glycogen synthase kinase 3 encodes daily rhythms of neuronal excitability. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13470. [PMID: 27841351 PMCID: PMC5114562 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
How neurons encode intracellular biochemical signalling cascades into electrical signals is not fully understood. Neurons in the central circadian clock in mammals provide a model system to investigate electrical encoding of biochemical timing signals. Here, using experimental and modelling approaches, we show how the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) contributes to neuronal excitability through regulation of the persistent sodium current (INaP). INaP exhibits a day/night difference in peak magnitude and is regulated by GSK3. Using mathematical modelling, we predict and confirm that GSK3 activation of INaP affects the action potential afterhyperpolarization, which increases the spontaneous firing rate without affecting the resting membrane potential. Together, these results demonstrate a crucial link between the molecular circadian clock and electrical activity, providing examples of kinase regulation of electrical activity and the propagation of intracellular signals in neuronal networks. It is not clear how circadian biochemical cascades are encoded into neural electrical signals. Here, using a combination of electrophysiology and modelling approaches in mice, the authors show activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 modulates neural activity in the suprachiasmatic nuclei via regulation of the persistent sodium current, INaP.
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Wang B, Bugay V, Ling L, Chuang HH, Jaffe DB, Brenner R. Knockout of the BK β4-subunit promotes a functional coupling of BK channels and ryanodine receptors that mediate a fAHP-induced increase in excitability. J Neurophysiol 2016; 116:456-65. [PMID: 27146987 PMCID: PMC4978790 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00857.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BK channels are large-conductance calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channels with diverse properties. Knockout of the accessory BK β4-subunit in hippocampus dentate gyrus granule neurons causes BK channels to change properties from slow-gated type II channels to fast-gated type I channels that sharpen the action potential, increase the fast afterhyperpolarization (fAHP) amplitude, and increase spike frequency. Here we studied the calcium channels that contribute to fast-gated BK channel activation and increased excitability of β4 knockout neurons. By using pharmacological blockers during current-clamp recording, we find that BK channel activation during the fAHP is dependent on ryanodine receptor activation. In contrast, L-type calcium channel blocker (nifedipine) affects the BK channel-dependent repolarization phase of the action potential but has no effect on the fAHP. Reducing BK channel activation during the repolarization phase with nifedipine, or during the fAHP with ryanodine, indicated that it is the BK-mediated increase of the fAHP that confers proexcitatory effects. The proexcitatory role of the fAHP was corroborated using dynamic current clamp. Increase or decrease of the fAHP amplitude during spiking revealed an inverse relationship between fAHP amplitude and interspike interval. Finally, we show that the seizure-prone ryanodine receptor gain-of-function (R2474S) knockin mice have an unaltered repolarization phase but larger fAHP and increased AP frequency compared with their control littermates. In summary, these results indicate that an important role of the β4-subunit is to reduce ryanodine receptor-BK channel functional coupling during the fAHP component of the action potential, thereby decreasing excitability of dentate gyrus neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas; and
| | - Vladislav Bugay
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas; and
| | - Ling Ling
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas; and
| | - Hui-Hsui Chuang
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas; and
| | - David B Jaffe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Robert Brenner
- Department of Physiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas; and
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Abstract
Large conductance Ca(2+)- and voltage-activated K(+) (BK) channels are widely distributed in the postnatal central nervous system (CNS). BK channels play a pleiotropic role in regulating the activity of brain and spinal cord neural circuits by providing a negative feedback mechanism for local increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations. In neurons, they regulate the timing and duration of K(+) influx such that they can either increase or decrease firing depending on the cellular context, and they can suppress neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals. In addition, BK channels located in astrocytes and arterial myocytes modulate cerebral blood flow. Not surprisingly, both loss and gain of BK channel function have been associated with CNS disorders such as epilepsy, ataxia, mental retardation, and chronic pain. On the other hand, the neuroprotective role played by BK channels in a number of pathological situations could potentially be leveraged to correct neurological dysfunction.
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Differential Regulation of Action Potential Shape and Burst-Frequency Firing by BK and Kv2 Channels in Substantia Nigra Dopaminergic Neurons. J Neurosci 2016; 35:16404-17. [PMID: 26674866 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5291-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Little is known about the voltage-dependent potassium currents underlying spike repolarization in midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Studying mouse substantia nigra pars compacta dopaminergic neurons both in brain slice and after acute dissociation, we found that BK calcium-activated potassium channels and Kv2 channels both make major contributions to the depolarization-activated potassium current. Inhibiting Kv2 or BK channels had very different effects on spike shape and evoked firing. Inhibiting Kv2 channels increased spike width and decreased the afterhyperpolarization, as expected for loss of an action potential-activated potassium conductance. BK inhibition also increased spike width but paradoxically increased the afterhyperpolarization. Kv2 channel inhibition steeply increased the slope of the frequency-current (f-I) relationship, whereas BK channel inhibition had little effect on the f-I slope or decreased it, sometimes resulting in slowed firing. Action potential clamp experiments showed that both BK and Kv2 current flow during spike repolarization but with very different kinetics, with Kv2 current activating later and deactivating more slowly. Further experiments revealed that inhibiting either BK or Kv2 alone leads to recruitment of additional current through the other channel type during the action potential as a consequence of changes in spike shape. Enhancement of slowly deactivating Kv2 current can account for the increased afterhyperpolarization produced by BK inhibition and likely underlies the very different effects on the f-I relationship. The cross-regulation of BK and Kv2 activation illustrates that the functional role of a channel cannot be defined in isolation but depends critically on the context of the other conductances in the cell. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT This work shows that BK calcium-activated potassium channels and Kv2 voltage-activated potassium channels both regulate action potentials in dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta. Although both channel types participate in action potential repolarization about equally, they have contrasting and partially opposite effects in regulating neuronal firing at frequencies typical of bursting. Our analysis shows that this results from their different kinetic properties, with fast-activating BK channels serving to short-circuit activation of Kv2 channels, which tend to slow firing by producing a deep afterhyperpolarization. The cross-regulation of BK and Kv2 activation illustrates that the functional role of a channel cannot be defined in isolation but depends critically on the context of the other conductances in the cell.
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45
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BK channel inactivation gates daytime excitability in the circadian clock. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10837. [PMID: 26940770 PMCID: PMC4785228 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivation is an intrinsic property of several voltage-dependent ion channels, closing the conduction pathway during membrane depolarization and dynamically regulating neuronal activity. BK K+ channels undergo N-type inactivation via their β2 subunit, but the physiological significance is not clear. Here, we report that inactivating BK currents predominate during the day in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, the brain's intrinsic clock circuit, reducing steady-state current levels. At night inactivation is diminished, resulting in larger BK currents. Loss of β2 eliminates inactivation, abolishing the diurnal variation in both BK current magnitude and SCN firing, and disrupting behavioural rhythmicity. Selective restoration of inactivation via the β2 N-terminal ‘ball-and-chain' domain rescues BK current levels and firing rate, unexpectedly contributing to the subthreshold membrane properties that shift SCN neurons into the daytime ‘upstate'. Our study reveals the clock employs inactivation gating as a biophysical switch to set the diurnal variation in suprachiasmatic nucleus excitability that underlies circadian rhythm. BK potassium channels have been previously shown to mediate SCN circadian firing, although the precise mechanisms are unclear. Here, using knockout and rescue approaches, the authors find that the ß2 ‘ball-and-chain' confers BK channel inactivation during the day, promoting SCN electrical upstate.
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46
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Kudo T, Block GD, Colwell CS. The Circadian Clock Gene Period1 Connects the Molecular Clock to Neural Activity in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus. ASN Neuro 2015; 7:7/6/1759091415610761. [PMID: 26553726 PMCID: PMC4710129 DOI: 10.1177/1759091415610761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The neural activity patterns of suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neurons are dynamically regulated throughout the circadian cycle with highest levels of spontaneous action potentials during the day. These rhythms in electrical activity are critical for the function of the circadian timing system and yet the mechanisms by which the molecular clockwork drives changes in the membrane are not well understood. In this study, we sought to examine how the clock gene Period1 (Per1) regulates the electrical activity in the mouse SCN by transiently and selectively decreasing levels of PER1 through use of an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide. We found that this treatment effectively reduced SCN neural activity. Direct current injection to restore the normal membrane potential partially, but not completely, returned firing rate to normal levels. The antisense treatment also reduced baseline [Ca2+]i levels as measured by Fura2 imaging technique. Whole cell patch clamp recording techniques were used to examine which specific potassium currents were altered by the treatment. These recordings revealed that the large conductance [Ca2+]i-activated potassium currents were reduced in antisense-treated neurons and that blocking this current mimicked the effects of the anti-sense on SCN firing rate. These results indicate that the circadian clock gene Per1 alters firing rate in SCN neurons and raise the possibility that the large conductance [Ca2+]i-activated channel is one of the targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kudo
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gene D Block
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christopher S Colwell
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Zemen BG, Lai MH, Whitt JP, Khan Z, Zhao G, Meredith AL. Generation of Kcnma1fl-tdTomato, a conditional deletion of the BK channel α subunit in mouse. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:e12612. [PMID: 26537348 PMCID: PMC4673641 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BK large conductance calcium-activated K(+) channels (KC a1.1) are expressed widely across many tissues, contributing to systemic regulation of cardiovascular, neurological, and other specialized physiological functions. The pore-forming α subunit is encoded by the Kcnma1 gene, originally named mSlo1 in mouse and slowpoke in Drosophila. Global deletion in mouse (Kcnma1(-/-)) produces a plethora of defects in neuron and muscle excitability, as well as other phenotypes related to channel function in nonexcitable cells. While homozygous null mice are viable, the ubiquitous loss of BK function has complicated the interpretation of phenotypes involving the interaction of multiple cell types which independently express BK channels. Here, we report the generation of a targeted allele for conditional inactivation of Kcnma1 using the Cre-loxP system (Kcnma1(fl)-tdTomato). Cre-mediated recombination generates a null allele, and BK currents were not detectable in neurons and muscle cells from Nestin-Cre; Kcnma1(fl/fl) and SM22α-Cre; Kcnma1(fl/fl) mice, respectively. tdTomato expression was detected in Cre-expressing tissues, but not in Cre-negative controls. These data demonstrate the utility of Kcnma1(fl)-tdTomato for conditional deletion of the BK channel, facilitating the understanding of tissue-specific contributions to physiological function in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betsir G Zemen
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael H Lai
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joshua P Whitt
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Zulqarnain Khan
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Guiling Zhao
- Center of BioMedical Engineering and Technology and Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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BK Channels Localize to the Paranodal Junction and Regulate Action Potentials in Myelinated Axons of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells. J Neurosci 2015; 35:7082-94. [PMID: 25948259 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3778-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In myelinated axons, K(+) channels are clustered in distinct membrane domains to regulate action potentials (APs). At nodes of Ranvier, Kv7 channels are expressed with Na(+) channels, whereas Kv1 channels flank nodes at juxtaparanodes. Regulation of axonal APs by K(+) channels would be particularly important in fast-spiking projection neurons such as cerebellar Purkinje cells. Here, we show that BK/Slo1 channels are clustered at the paranodal junctions of myelinated Purkinje cell axons of rat and mouse. The paranodal junction is formed by a set of cell-adhesion molecules, including Caspr, between the node and juxtaparanodes in which it separates nodal from internodal membrane domains. Remarkably, only Purkinje cell axons have detectable paranodal BK channels, whose clustering requires the formation of the paranodal junction via Caspr. Thus, BK channels occupy this unique domain in Purkinje cell axons along with the other K(+) channel complexes at nodes and juxtaparanodes. To investigate the physiological role of novel paranodal BK channels, we examined the effect of BK channel blockers on antidromic AP conduction. We found that local application of blockers to the axon resulted in a significant increase in antidromic AP failure at frequencies above 100 Hz. We also found that Ni(2+) elicited a similar effect on APs, indicating the involvement of Ni(2+)-sensitive Ca(2+) channels. Furthermore, axonal application of BK channel blockers decreased the inhibitory synaptic response in the deep cerebellar nuclei. Thus, paranodal BK channels uniquely support high-fidelity firing of APs in myelinated Purkinje cell axons, thereby underpinning the output of the cerebellar cortex.
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Age-related changes in large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in mammalian circadian clock neurons. Neurobiol Aging 2015; 36:2176-83. [PMID: 25735218 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.12.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Aging impairs the function of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN, the central mammalian clock), leading to a decline in the circadian rhythm of many physiological processes, including sleep-wake rhythms. Recent studies have found evidence of age-related changes in the circadian regulation of potassium currents; these changes presumably lead to a decrease in the SCN's electrical rhythm amplitude. Current through large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channels promote rhythmicity in both SCN neuronal activity and behavior. In many neuron types, changes in BK activity are correlated with changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i). We performed patch-clamp recordings of SCN neurons in aged mice and observed that the circadian modulation of BK channel activity was lost because of a reduction in BK currents during the night. This reduced current diminished the afterhyperpolarization, depolarized the resting membrane potential, widened the action potential, and increased [Ca(2+)]i. These data suggest that reduced BK current increases [Ca(2+)]i by altering the action potential waveform, possibly contributing to the observed age-related phenotype.
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Lai MH, Wu Y, Gao Z, Anderson ME, Dalziel JE, Meredith AL. BK channels regulate sinoatrial node firing rate and cardiac pacing in vivo. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 307:H1327-38. [PMID: 25172903 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00354.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Large-conductance Ca(2+)- and voltage-activated K(+) (BK) channels play prominent roles in shaping muscle and neuronal excitability. In the cardiovascular system, BK channels promote vascular relaxation and protect against ischemic injury. Recently, inhibition of BK channels has been shown to lower heart rate in intact rodents and isolated hearts, suggesting a novel role in heart function. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. In the present study, we recorded ECGs from mice injected with paxilline (PAX), a membrane-permeable BK channel antagonist, and examined changes in cardiac conduction. ECGs revealed a 19 ± 4% PAX-induced reduction in heart rate in wild-type but not BK channel knockout (Kcnma1(-/-)) mice. The heart rate decrease was associated with slowed cardiac pacing due to elongation of the sinus interval. Action potential firing recorded from isolated sinoatrial node cells (SANCs) was reduced by 55 ± 15% and 28 ± 9% by application of PAX (3 μM) and iberiotoxin (230 nM), respectively. Furthermore, baseline firing rates from Kcnma1(-/-) SANCs were 33% lower than wild-type SANCs. The slowed firing upon BK current inhibition or genetic deletion was due to lengthening of the diastolic depolarization phase of the SANC action potential. Finally, BK channel immunoreactivity and PAX-sensitive currents were identified in SANCs with HCN4 expression and pacemaker current, respectively, and BK channels cloned from SANCs recapitulated similar activation as the PAX-sensitive current. Together, these data localize BK channels to SANCs and demonstrate that loss of BK current decreases SANC automaticity, consistent with slowed sinus pacing after PAX injection in vivo. Furthermore, these findings suggest BK channels are potential therapeutic targets for disorders of heart rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Lai
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Yuejin Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine and the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Zhan Gao
- Department of Internal Medicine and the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Mark E Anderson
- Department of Internal Medicine and the François M. Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Department of Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; and
| | - Julie E Dalziel
- AgResearch, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Andrea L Meredith
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland;
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