1
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Shen M, Huang Y, Cai Z, Cherny VV, DeCoursey TE, Shen J. Interior pH-sensing residue of human voltage-gated proton channel H v1 is histidine 168. Biophys J 2024:S0006-3495(24)00486-7. [PMID: 39054673 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms governing the human voltage-gated proton channel hHv1 remain elusive. Here, we used membrane-enabled hybrid-solvent continuous constant pH molecular dynamics (CpHMD) simulations with pH replica exchange to further evaluate the structural models of hHv1 in the closed (hyperpolarized) and open (depolarized) states recently obtained with MD simulations and explore potential pH-sensing residues. The CpHMD titration at a set of symmetric pH conditions revealed three residues that can gain or lose protons upon channel depolarization. Among them, residue H168 at the intracellular end of the S3 helix switches from the deprotonated to the protonated state and its protonation is correlated with the increased tilting of the S3 helix during the transition from the closed to the open state. Thus, the simulation data suggest H168 as an interior pH sensor, in support of a recent finding based on electrophysiological experiments of Hv1 mutants. We propose that protonation of H168 acts as a key that unlocks the closed channel configuration by increasing the flexibility of the S2-S3 linker, which increases the tilt angle of S3 and enhances the mobility of the S4 helix, thus promoting channel opening. Our work represents an important step toward deciphering the pH-dependent gating mechanism of hHv1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhe Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yandong Huang
- College of Computer Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Zhitao Cai
- College of Computer Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Vladimir V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jana Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland.
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2
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Ramanthrikkovil Variyam A, Rzycki M, Yucknovsky A, Stuchebrukhov AA, Drabik D, Amdursky N. Proton diffusion on the surface of mixed lipid membranes highlights the role of membrane composition. Biophys J 2024:S0006-3495(24)00441-7. [PMID: 38961623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Proton circuits within biological membranes, the foundation of natural bioenergetic systems, are significantly influenced by the lipid compositions of different biological membranes. In this study, we investigate the influence of mixed lipid membrane composition on the proton transfer (PT) properties on the surface of the membrane. We track the excited-state PT (ESPT) process from a tethered probe to the membrane with timescales and length scales of PT relevant to bioenergetic systems. Two processes can happen during ESPT: the initial PT from the probe to the membrane at short timescales, followed by diffusion of dissociated protons around the probe on the membrane, and the possible geminate recombination with the probe at longer timescales. Here, we use membranes composed of mixtures of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidic acid (PA). We show that the changes in the ESPT properties are not monotonous with the concentration of the lipid mixture; at a low concentration of PA in PC, we find that the membrane is a poor proton acceptor. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the membrane is more structured at this specific lipid mixture, with the least number of defects. Accordingly, we suggest that the structure of the membrane is an important factor in facilitating PT. We further show that the composition of the membrane affects the geminate proton diffusion around the probe, whereas, on a timescale of tens of nanoseconds, the dissociated proton is mostly lateral restricted to the membrane plane in PA membranes, while in PC, the diffusion is less restricted by the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mateusz Rzycki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Yucknovsky
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Dominik Drabik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Nadav Amdursky
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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3
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Kariev AM, Green ME. Water, Protons, and the Gating of Voltage-Gated Potassium Channels. MEMBRANES 2024; 14:37. [PMID: 38392664 PMCID: PMC10890431 DOI: 10.3390/membranes14020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ion channels are ubiquitous throughout all forms of life. Potassium channels are even found in viruses. Every cell must communicate with its surroundings, so all cells have them, and excitable cells, in particular, especially nerve cells, depend on the behavior of these channels. Every channel must be open at the appropriate time, and only then, so that each channel opens in response to the stimulus that tells that channel to open. One set of channels, including those in nerve cells, responds to voltage. There is a standard model for the gating of these channels that has a section of the protein moving in response to the voltage. However, there is evidence that protons are moving, rather than protein. Water is critical as part of the gating process, although it is hard to see how this works in the standard model. Here, we review the extensive evidence of the importance of the role of water and protons in gating these channels. Our principal example, but by no means the only example, will be the Kv1.2 channel. Evidence comes from the effects of D2O, from mutations in the voltage sensing domain, as well as in the linker between that domain and the gate, and at the gate itself. There is additional evidence from computations, especially quantum calculations. Structural evidence comes from X-ray studies. The hydration of ions is critical in the transfer of ions in constricted spaces, such as the gate region and the pore of a channel; we will see how the structure of the hydrated ion fits with the structure of the channel. In addition, there is macroscopic evidence from osmotic experiments and streaming current measurements. The combined evidence is discussed in the context of a model that emphasizes the role of protons and water in gating these channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisher M Kariev
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
| | - Michael E Green
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The City College of New York, New York, NY 10031, USA
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4
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Fernández M, Alvear-Arias JJ, Carmona EM, Carrillo C, Pena-Pichicoi A, Hernandez-Ochoa EO, Neely A, Alvarez O, Latorre R, Garate JA, Gonzalez C. Trapping Charge Mechanism in Hv1 Channels ( CiHv1). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:426. [PMID: 38203601 PMCID: PMC10779229 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010426] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The majority of voltage-gated ion channels contain a defined voltage-sensing domain and a pore domain composed of highly conserved amino acid residues that confer electrical excitability via electromechanical coupling. In this sense, the voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) is a unique protein in that voltage-sensing, proton permeation and pH-dependent modulation involve the same structural region. In fact, these processes synergistically work in concert, and it is difficult to separate them. To investigate the process of Hv1 voltage sensor trapping, we follow voltage-sensor movements directly by leveraging mutations that enable the measurement of Hv1 channel gating currents. We uncover that the process of voltage sensor displacement is due to two driving forces. The first reveals that mutations in the selectivity filter (D160) located in the S1 transmembrane interact with the voltage sensor. More hydrophobic amino acids increase the energy barrier for voltage sensor activation. On the other hand, the effect of positive charges near position 264 promotes the formation of salt bridges between the arginines of the voltage sensor domain, achieving a stable conformation over time. Our results suggest that the activation of the Hv1 voltage sensor is governed by electrostatic-hydrophobic interactions, and S4 arginines, N264 and selectivity filter (D160) are essential in the Ciona-Hv1 to understand the trapping of the voltage sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Fernández
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Juan J. Alvear-Arias
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Emerson M. Carmona
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA;
| | - Christian Carrillo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Antonio Pena-Pichicoi
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Erick O. Hernandez-Ochoa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Alan Neely
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
| | - Osvaldo Alvarez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
| | - Ramon Latorre
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile; (M.F.); (J.J.A.-A.); (C.C.); (A.P.-P.); (A.N.); (O.A.); (R.L.)
| | - Jose A. Garate
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago 7780272, Chile
| | - Carlos Gonzalez
- Millennium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2351319, Chile
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
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5
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Zhao C, Webster PD, De Angeli A, Tombola F. Mechanically-primed voltage-gated proton channels from angiosperm plants. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7515. [PMID: 37980353 PMCID: PMC10657467 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43280-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated and mechanically-gated ion channels are distinct classes of membrane proteins that conduct ions across gated pores and are turned on by electrical or mechanical stimuli, respectively. Here, we describe an Hv channel (a.k.a voltage-dependent H+ channel) from the angiosperm plant A. thaliana that gates with a unique modality as it is turned on by an electrical stimulus only after exposure to a mechanical stimulus, a process that we call priming. The channel localizes in the vascular tissue and has homologs in vascular plants. We find that mechanical priming is not required for activation of non-angiosperm Hvs. Guided by AI-generated structural models of plant Hv homologs, we identify a set of residues playing a crucial role in mechanical priming. We propose that Hvs from angiosperm plants require priming because of a network of hydrophilic/charged residues that locks the channels in a silent resting conformation. Mechanical stimuli destabilize the network allowing the conduction pathway to turn on. In contrast to many other channels and receptors, Hv proteins are not thought to possess mechanisms such as inactivation or desensitization. Our findings demonstrate that angiosperm Hv channels are electrically silent until a mechanical stimulation turns on their voltage-dependent activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Parker D Webster
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Alexis De Angeli
- IPSiM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Montpellier, France.
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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6
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Lazaridis T. Proton Paths in Models of the Hv1 Proton Channel. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:7937-7945. [PMID: 37695850 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c03960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1) plays an essential role in numerous biological processes, but a detailed molecular understanding of its function is lacking. The lack of reliable structures for the open and resting states is a major handicap. Several models have been built based on homologous voltage sensors and the structure of a chimera between the mouse homologue and a phosphatase voltage sensor, but their validity is uncertain. In addition, differing views exist regarding the mode of proton translocation, the role of specific residues, and the mechanism of pH effects on voltage gating. Here we use classical proton hopping simulations under a voltage biasing force to evaluate some of the proposed structural models and explore the mechanism of proton conduction. Paradoxically, some models proposed for the closed state allow for proton permeation more easily than models for the open state. An open state model with a D112-R211 salt bridge (R3D) allows proton transport more easily than models with a D112-R208 salt bridge (R2D). However, its permeation rate seems too high, considering experimental conductances. In all cases, the proton permeates through a water wire, bypassing the salt-bridged D112 rather than being shuttled by D112. Attempts to protonate D112 are rejected due to its strong interaction with an arginine. Consistent with proton selectivity, no Na+ permeation was observed in the R2D models. As a negative control, simulations with the Kv1.2-Kv2.1 paddle-chimera voltage sensor, which is not expected to conduct protons, did not show proton permeation under the same conditions. Hydrogen bond connectivity graphs show a constriction at D112, but cannot discriminate between open and closed states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Themis Lazaridis
- Department of Chemistry, City College of New York/CUNY, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, New York 10031, United States
- Graduate Programs in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10016, United States
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7
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Kratochvil HT, Watkins LC, Mravic M, Thomaston JL, Nicoludis JM, Somberg NH, Liu L, Hong M, Voth GA, DeGrado WF. Transient water wires mediate selective proton transport in designed channel proteins. Nat Chem 2023; 15:1012-1021. [PMID: 37308712 PMCID: PMC10475958 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01210-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Selective proton transport through proteins is essential for forming and using proton gradients in cells. Protons are conducted along hydrogen-bonded 'wires' of water molecules and polar side chains, which, somewhat surprisingly, are often interrupted by dry apolar stretches in the conduction pathways, inferred from static protein structures. Here we hypothesize that protons are conducted through such dry spots by forming transient water wires, often highly correlated with the presence of the excess protons in the water wire. To test this hypothesis, we performed molecular dynamics simulations to design transmembrane channels with stable water pockets interspersed by apolar segments capable of forming flickering water wires. The minimalist designed channels conduct protons at rates similar to viral proton channels, and they are at least 106-fold more selective for H+ over Na+. These studies inform the mechanisms of biological proton conduction and the principles for engineering proton-conductive materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huong T Kratochvil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Laura C Watkins
- Department of Chemistry, Chicago Center for Theoretical Chemistry, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics and James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Kemper Insurance, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Marco Mravic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jessica L Thomaston
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John M Nicoludis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Genentech, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Noah H Somberg
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Mei Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gregory A Voth
- Department of Chemistry, Chicago Center for Theoretical Chemistry, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics and James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - William F DeGrado
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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8
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Chaves G, Jardin C, Derst C, Musset B. Voltage-Gated Proton Channels in the Tree of Life. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1035. [PMID: 37509071 PMCID: PMC10377628 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
With a single gene encoding HV1 channel, proton channel diversity is particularly low in mammals compared to other members of the superfamily of voltage-gated ion channels. Nonetheless, mammalian HV1 channels are expressed in many different tissues and cell types where they exert various functions. In the first part of this review, we regard novel aspects of the functional expression of HV1 channels in mammals by differentially comparing their involvement in (1) close conjunction with the NADPH oxidase complex responsible for the respiratory burst of phagocytes, and (2) in respiratory burst independent functions such as pH homeostasis or acid extrusion. In the second part, we dissect expression of HV channels within the eukaryotic tree of life, revealing the immense diversity of the channel in other phylae, such as mollusks or dinoflagellates, where several genes encoding HV channels can be found within a single species. In the last part, a comprehensive overview of the biophysical properties of a set of twenty different HV channels characterized electrophysiologically, from Mammalia to unicellular protists, is given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Chaves
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, The Nuremberg Location, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christophe Jardin
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, The Nuremberg Location, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christian Derst
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, The Nuremberg Location, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Boris Musset
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, The Nuremberg Location, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, The Salzburg Location, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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9
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Boytsov D, Brescia S, Chaves G, Koefler S, Hannesschlaeger C, Siligan C, Goessweiner-Mohr N, Musset B, Pohl P. Trapped Pore Waters in the Open Proton Channel H V 1. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205968. [PMID: 36683221 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel, HV 1, is crucial for innate immune responses. According to alternative hypotheses, protons either hop on top of an uninterrupted water wire or bypass titratable amino acids, interrupting the water wire halfway across the membrane. To distinguish between both hypotheses, the water mobility for the putative case of an uninterrupted wire is estimated. The predicted single-channel water permeability 2.3 × 10-12 cm3 s-1 reflects the permeability-governing number of hydrogen bonds between water molecules in single-file configuration and pore residues. However, the measured unitary water permeability does not confirm the predicted value. Osmotic deflation of reconstituted lipid vesicles reveals negligible water permeability of the HV 1 wild-type channel and the D174A mutant open at 0 mV. The conductance of 1400 H+ s-1 per wild-type channel agrees with the calculated diffusion limit for a ≈2 Å capture radius for protons. Removal of a charged amino acid (D174) at the pore mouth decreases H+ conductance by reducing the capture radius. At least one intervening amino acid contributes to H+ conductance while interrupting the water wire across the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danila Boytsov
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | - Stefania Brescia
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, CPPB, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Sabina Koefler
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | | | - Christine Siligan
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
| | | | - Boris Musset
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, CPPB, Paracelsus Medical University, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Peter Pohl
- Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, 40, Gruberstr, Austria
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10
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Chaves G, Ayuyan AG, Cherny VV, Morgan D, Franzen A, Fieber L, Nausch L, Derst C, Mahorivska I, Jardin C, DeCoursey TE, Musset B. Unexpected expansion of the voltage-gated proton channel family. FEBS J 2023; 290:1008-1026. [PMID: 36062330 PMCID: PMC10911540 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated ion channels, whose first identified function was to generate action potentials, are divided into subfamilies with numerous members. The family of voltage-gated proton channels (HV ) is tiny. To date, all species found to express HV have exclusively one gene that codes for this unique ion channel. Here we report the discovery and characterization of three proton channel genes in the classical model system of neural plasticity, Aplysia californica. The three channels (AcHV 1, AcHV 2, and AcHV 3) are distributed throughout the whole animal. Patch-clamp analysis confirmed proton selectivity of these channels but they all differed markedly in gating. AcHV 1 gating resembled HV in mammalian cells where it is responsible for proton extrusion and charge compensation. AcHV 2 activates more negatively and conducts extensive inward proton current, properties likely to acidify the cytosol. AcHV 3, which differs from AcHV 1 and AcHV 2 in lacking the first arginine in the S4 helix, exhibits proton selective leak currents and weak voltage dependence. We report the expansion of the proton channel family, demonstrating for the first time the expression of three functionally distinct proton channels in a single species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Chaves
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Artem G Ayuyan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vladimir V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Deri Morgan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Kansas Medical Center, MO, USA
| | - Arne Franzen
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Molecular and Cellular Physiology (IBI-1), Jülich, Germany
| | - Lynne Fieber
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology - Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Lydia Nausch
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition, Institute of Nutrition and Food Supply Management, University of Applied Sciences Weihenstephan-Triesdorf, Freising, Germany
| | - Christian Derst
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Iryna Mahorivska
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christophe Jardin
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Boris Musset
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
- Center of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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11
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Suárez-Delgado E, Orozco-Contreras M, Rangel-Yescas GE, Islas LD. Activation-pathway transitions in human voltage-gated proton channels revealed by a non-canonical fluorescent amino acid. eLife 2023; 12:85836. [PMID: 36695566 PMCID: PMC9925047 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-dependent gating of the voltage-gated proton channels (HV1) remains poorly understood, partly because of the difficulty of obtaining direct measurements of voltage sensor movement in the form of gating currents. To circumvent this problem, we have implemented patch-clamp fluorometry in combination with the incorporation of the fluorescent non-canonical amino acid Anap to monitor channel opening and movement of the S4 segment. Simultaneous recording of currents and fluorescence signals allows for direct correlation of these parameters and investigation of their dependence on voltage and the pH gradient (ΔpH). We present data that indicate that Anap incorporated in the S4 helix is quenched by an aromatic residue located in the S2 helix and that motion of the S4 relative to this quencher is responsible for fluorescence increases upon depolarization. The kinetics of the fluorescence signal reveal the existence of a very slow transition in the deactivation pathway, which seems to be singularly regulated by ΔpH. Our experiments also suggest that the voltage sensor can move after channel opening and that the absolute value of the pH can influence the channel opening step. These results shed light on the complexities of voltage-dependent opening of human HV1 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Suárez-Delgado
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
| | - Maru Orozco-Contreras
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
| | - Gisela E Rangel-Yescas
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
| | - Leon D Islas
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, Mexico
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12
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Wu X, Zhang L, Hong L. The role of Phe150 in human voltage-gated proton channel. iScience 2022; 25:105420. [PMID: 36388967 PMCID: PMC9646954 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 is a member of voltage-gated ion channels containing voltage-sensing domains (VSDs). The VSDs are made of four membrane-spanning segments (S1 through S4), and their function is to detect changes in membrane potential in the cells. A highly conserved phenylalanine 150 (F150) is located in the S2 segment of human voltage-gated proton channels. We previously discovered that the F150 is a binding site for the open channel blocker 2GBI. Here, we show that the Hv1 VSD voltage-dependent activation requires a hydrophobic group at position F150. We perform double-mutant cycle analysis to probe interactions between F150 and positively charged arginines in the S4 segment of the channel. Our results indicate that F150 interacts with two arginines (R2 and R3) in the S4 segment and catalyzes the transfer of the S4 arginines in the process of voltage-dependent activation. Hydrophobicity of F150 is crucial for human Hv1 channel voltage-dependent activation F150 interacts with R2 to stabilize the closed state of the Hv1 channel When depolarized, R3 moves upward to interact with F150 stabilizing the open state of Hv1 F150 is essential for the transfer of the Hv1 arginines in the process of voltage sensing
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wu
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Corresponding author
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13
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Gualdani R, Gailly P, Yuan JH, Yerna X, Di Stefano G, Truini A, Cruccu G, Dib-Hajj SD, Waxman SG. A TRPM7 mutation linked to familial trigeminal neuralgia: Omega current and hyperexcitability of trigeminal ganglion neurons. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2119630119. [PMID: 36095216 PMCID: PMC9499596 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119630119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a unique pain disorder characterized by intense paroxysmal facial pain within areas innervated by the trigeminal nerve. Although most cases of TN are sporadic, familial clusters of TN suggest that genetic factors may contribute to this disorder. Whole-exome sequencing in patients with TN reporting positive family history demonstrated a spectrum of variants of ion channels including TRP channels. Here, we used patch-clamp analysis and Ca2+ and Na+ imaging to assess a rare variant in the TRPM7 channel, p.Ala931Thr, within transmembrane domain 3, identified in a man suffering from unilateral TN. We showed that A931T produced an abnormal inward current carried by Na+ and insensitive to the pore blocker Gd3+. Hypothesizing that replacement of the hydrophobic alanine at position 931 with the more polar threonine destabilizes a hydrophobic ring, near the voltage sensor domain, we performed alanine substitutions of F971 and W972 and obtained results suggesting a role of A931-W972 hydrophobic interaction in S3-S4 hydrophobic cleft stability. Finally, we transfected trigeminal ganglion neurons with A931T channels and observed that expression of this TRPM7 variant lowers current threshold and resting membrane potential, and increases evoked firing activity in TG neurons. Our results support the notion that the TRPM7-A931T mutation located in the S3 segment at the interface with the transmembrane region S4, generates an omega current that carries Na+ influx in physiological conditions. A931T produces hyperexcitability and a sustained Na+ influx in trigeminal ganglion neurons that may underlie pain in this kindred with trigeminal neuralgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Gualdani
- aInstitute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Gailly
- aInstitute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jun-Hui Yuan
- bDepartment of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- cCenter for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare, West Haven, CT 06515
| | - Xavier Yerna
- aInstitute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Giulia Di Stefano
- dDepartment of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Truini
- dDepartment of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cruccu
- dDepartment of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sulayman D. Dib-Hajj
- bDepartment of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- cCenter for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare, West Haven, CT 06515
| | - Stephen G. Waxman
- bDepartment of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- cCenter for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare, West Haven, CT 06515
- 2To whom correspondence may be addressed.
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14
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Llanos MA, Ventura C, Martín P, Enrique N, Felice JI, Gavernet L, Milesi V. Novel Dimeric hHv1 Model and Structural Bioinformatic Analysis Reveal an ATP-Binding Site Resulting in a Channel Activating Effect. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:3200-3212. [PMID: 35758884 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human voltage-gated proton channel (hHv1) is a highly selective ion channel codified by the HVCN1 gene. It plays a fundamental role in several physiological processes such as innate and adaptive immunity, insulin secretion, and sperm capacitation. Moreover, in humans, a higher hHv1 expression/function has been reported in several types of cancer cells. Here we report a multitemplate homology model of the hHv1 channel, built and refined as a dimer in Rosetta. The model was then subjected to extensive Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD) for enhanced conformational sampling, and representative snapshots were extracted by clustering analysis. Combining different structure- and sequence-based methodologies, we predicted a putative ATP-binding site located on the intracellular portion of the channel. Furthermore, GaMD simulations of the ATP-bound dimeric hHv1 model showed that ATP interacts with a cluster of positively charged residues from the cytoplasmic N and C terminal segments. According to the in silico predictions, we found that 3 mM intracellular ATP significantly increases the H+ current mediated by the hHv1 channel expressed in HEK293 cells and measured by the patch-clamp technique in an inside-out configuration (2.86 ± 0.63 fold over control at +40 mV). When ATP was added on the extracellular side, it was not able to activate the channel supporting the idea that the ATP-binding site resides in the intracellular face of the hHV1 channel. In a physiological and pathophysiological context, this ATP-mediated modulation could integrate the cell metabolic state with the H+ efflux, especially in cells where hHv1 channels are relevant for pH regulation, such as pancreatic β-cells, immune cells, and cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A Llanos
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Fac. de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata B1900ADU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara Ventura
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pedro Martín
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Enrique
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan I Felice
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana Gavernet
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Fac. de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata B1900ADU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Verónica Milesi
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto de Estudios Inmunológicos y Fisiopatológicos (IIFP), UNLP, CONICET, asociado CIC PBA, La Plata B1900BJW, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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15
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Jardin C, Ohlwein N, Franzen A, Chaves G, Musset B. The pH-dependent gating of the human voltage-gated proton channel from computational simulations. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2022; 24:9964-9977. [PMID: 35445675 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp05609c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Gating of the voltage-gated proton channel HV1 is strongly controlled by pH. There is evidence that this involves the sidechains of titratable amino acids that change their protonation state with changes of the pH. Despite experimental investigations to identify the amino acids involved in pH sensing only few progress has been made, including one histidine at the cytoplasmic side of the channel that is involved in sensing cellular pH. We have used constant pH molecular dynamics simulations in symmetrical and asymmetrical pH conditions across the membrane to investigate the pH- and ΔpH-dependent gating of the human HV1 channel. Therefore, the pKa of every titratable amino acids has been assessed in single simulations. Our simulations captured initial conformational changes between a deactivated and an activated state of the channel induced solely by changes of the pH. The pH-dependent gating is accompanied by an outward displacement of the three S4 voltage sensing arginines that moves the second arginine past the hydrophobic gasket (HG) which separates the inner and outer pores of the channel. HV1 activation, when outer pH increases, involves amino acids at the extracellular entrance of the channel that extend the network of interactions from the external solution down to the HG. Whereas, amino acids at the cytoplasmic entrance of the channel are involved in activation, when inner pH decreases, and in a network of interactions that extend from the cytoplasm up to the HG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Jardin
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Niklas Ohlwein
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany. .,Klinik für Anästhesiologie und operative Intensivmedizin, Universitätklinik der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Arne Franzen
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Molecular and Cellular Physiology (IBI-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
| | - Boris Musset
- Klinikum Nürnberg Medical School, CPPB, Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, Nuremberg, Germany.
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16
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The Quantum Tunneling of Ions Model Can Explain the Pathophysiology of Tinnitus. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040426. [PMID: 35447958 PMCID: PMC9025927 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Tinnitus is a well-known pathological entity in clinical practice. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms behind tinnitus seem to be elusive and cannot provide a comprehensive understanding of its pathogenesis and clinical manifestations. Hence, in the present study, we explore the mathematical model of ions’ quantum tunneling to propose an original pathophysiological mechanism for the sensation of tinnitus. The present model focuses on two major aspects: The first aspect is the ability of ions, including sodium, potassium, and calcium, to depolarize the membrane potential of inner hair cells and the neurons of the auditory pathway. This membrane depolarization is induced via the quantum tunneling of ions through closed voltage-gated channels. The state of membrane depolarization can be a state of hyper-excitability or hypo-excitability, depending on the degree of depolarization. Both of these states aid in understanding the pathophysiology of tinnitus. The second aspect is the quantum tunneling signals between the demyelinated neurons of the auditory pathway. These signals are mediated via the quantum tunneling of potassium ions, which exit to the extracellular fluid during an action potential event. These quantum signals can be viewed as a “quantum synapse” between neurons. The formation of quantum synapses results in hyper-excitability among the demyelinated neurons of the auditory pathway. Both of these aspects augment and amplify the electrical signals in the auditory pathway and result in a loss of the spatiotemporal fidelity of sound signals going to the brain centers. The brain interprets this hyper-excitability and loss of spatiotemporal fidelity as tinnitus. Herein, we show mathematically that the quantum tunneling of ions can depolarize the membrane potential of the inner hair cells and neurons of the auditory pathway. Moreover, we calculate the probability of action potential induction in the neurons of the auditory pathway generated by the quantum tunneling signals of potassium ions.
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17
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Khreesha L, Qaswal AB, Al Omari B, Albliwi MA, Ababneh O, Albanna A, Abunab'ah A, Iswaid M, Alarood S, Guzu H, Alshawabkeh G, Zayed FM, Abuhilaleh MA, Al-Jbour MN, Obeidat S, Suleiman A. Quantum Tunneling-Induced Membrane Depolarization Can Explain the Cellular Effects Mediated by Lithium: Mathematical Modeling and Hypothesis. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:851. [PMID: 34832080 PMCID: PMC8625630 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11110851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Lithium imposes several cellular effects allegedly through multiple physiological mechanisms. Membrane depolarization is a potential unifying concept of these mechanisms. Multiple inherent imperfections of classical electrophysiology limit its ability to fully explain the depolarizing effect of lithium ions; these include incapacity to explain the high resting permeability of lithium ions, the degree of depolarization with extracellular lithium concentration, depolarization at low therapeutic concentration, or the differences between the two lithium isotopes Li-6 and Li-7 in terms of depolarization. In this study, we implemented a mathematical model that explains the quantum tunneling of lithium ions through the closed gates of voltage-gated sodium channels as a conclusive approach that decodes the depolarizing action of lithium. Additionally, we compared our model to the classical model available and reported the differences. Our results showed that lithium can achieve high quantum membrane conductance at the resting state, which leads to significant depolarization. The quantum model infers that quantum membrane conductance of lithium ions emerges from quantum tunneling of lithium through the closed gates of sodium channels. It also differentiates between the two lithium isotopes (Li-6 and Li-7) in terms of depolarization compared with the previous classical model. Moreover, our study listed many examples of the cellular effects of lithium and membrane depolarization to show similarity and consistency with model predictions. In conclusion, the study suggests that lithium mediates its multiple cellular effects through membrane depolarization, and this can be comprehensively explained by the quantum tunneling model of lithium ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Khreesha
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | | | - Baheth Al Omari
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | | | - Omar Ababneh
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Albanna
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | | | - Mohammad Iswaid
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Salameh Alarood
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Hasan Guzu
- Anesthesia Department, Farah Medical Campus, 18 Mai Zeyadeh Street, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Ghadeer Alshawabkeh
- Anesthesia and Pain Management Department, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | | | | | | | - Salameh Obeidat
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Management, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Aiman Suleiman
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Management, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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18
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Sokolov VS, Cherny VV, Ayuyan AG, DeCoursey TE. Analysis of an electrostatic mechanism for ΔpH dependent gating of the voltage-gated proton channel, H V1, supports a contribution of protons to gating charge. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOENERGETICS 2021; 1862:148480. [PMID: 34363792 PMCID: PMC8432343 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2021.148480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton channels (HV1) resemble the voltage-sensing domain of other voltage-gated ion channels, but differ in containing the conduction pathway. Essential to the functions of HV1 channels in many cells and species is a unique feature called ΔpH dependent gating. The pH on both sides of the membrane strictly regulates the voltage range of channel opening, generally resulting in exclusively outward proton current. Two types of mechanisms could produce ΔpH dependent gating. The "countercharge" mechanism proposes that protons destabilize salt bridges between amino acids in the protein that stabilize specific gating configurations (closed or open). An "electrostatic" mechanism proposes that protons bound to the channel alter the electrical field sensed by the protein. Obligatory proton binding within the membrane electrical field would contribute to measured gating charge. Estimations on the basis of the electrostatic model explain ΔpH dependent gating, but quantitative modeling requires calculations of the electric field inside the protein which, in turn, requires knowledge of its structure. We conclude that both mechanisms operate and contribute to ΔpH dependent gating of HV1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerij S Sokolov
- Frumkin Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Vladimir V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Artem G Ayuyan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Thomas E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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19
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Ababneh O, Qaswal AB, Alelaumi A, Khreesha L, Almomani M, Khrais M, Khrais O, Suleihat A, Mutleq S, Al-olaimat Y, Nawafleh S. Proton Quantum Tunneling: Influence and Relevance to Acidosis-Induced Cardiac Arrhythmias/Cardiac Arrest. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:400-436. [PMID: 35366283 PMCID: PMC8830476 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Acidosis and its associated pathologies predispose patients to develop cardiac arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest. These arrhythmias are assumed to be the result of membrane depolarization, however, the exact mechanism of depolarization during acidosis is not well defined. In our study, the model of quantum tunneling of protons is used to explain the membrane depolarization that occurs during acidosis. It is found that protons can tunnel through closed activation and inactivation gates of voltage-gated sodium channels Nav1.5 that are present in the membrane of cardiac cells. The quantum tunneling of protons results in quantum conductance, which is evaluated to assess its effect on membrane potential. The quantum conductance of extracellular protons is higher than that of intracellular protons. This predicts an inward quantum current of protons through the closed sodium channels. Additionally, the values of quantum conductance are influential and can depolarize the membrane potential according to the quantum version of the GHK equation. The quantum mechanism of depolarization is distinct from other mechanisms because the quantum model suggests that protons can directly depolarize the membrane potential, and not only through indirect effects as proposed by other mechanisms in the literature. Understanding the pathophysiology of arrhythmias mediated by depolarization during acidosis is crucial to treat and control them and to improve the overall clinical outcomes of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Ababneh
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Abdallah Barjas Qaswal
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Alelaumi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Lubna Khreesha
- Department of Special Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Mujahed Almomani
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.); (M.K.); (O.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Majdi Khrais
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.); (M.K.); (O.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Oweiss Khrais
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.); (M.K.); (O.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Ahmad Suleihat
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (M.A.); (M.K.); (O.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Shahed Mutleq
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Yazan Al-olaimat
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Sager Nawafleh
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13115, Jordan;
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20
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Cherny VV, Musset B, Morgan D, Thomas S, Smith SME, DeCoursey TE. Engineered high-affinity zinc binding site reveals gating configurations of a human proton channel. J Gen Physiol 2021; 152:152076. [PMID: 32902579 PMCID: PMC7537347 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel (HV1) is a voltage sensor that also conducts protons. The singular ability of protons to penetrate proteins complicates distinguishing closed and open channels. When we replaced valine with histidine at position 116 in the external vestibule of hHV1, current was potently inhibited by externally applied Zn2+ in a construct lacking the two His that bind Zn2+ in WT channels. High-affinity binding with profound effects at 10 nM Zn2+ at pHo 7 suggests additional groups contribute. We hypothesized that Asp185, which faces position 116 in our closed-state model, contributes to Zn2+ chelation. Confirming this prediction, V116H/D185N abolished Zn2+ binding. Studied in a C-terminal truncated monomeric construct, V116H channels activated rapidly. Anomalously, Zn2+ slowed activation, producing a time constant independent of both voltage and Zn2+ concentration. We hypothesized that slow turn-on of H+ current in the presence of Zn2+ reflects the rate of Zn2+ unbinding from the channel, analogous to drug-receptor dissociation reactions. This behavior in turn suggests that the affinity for Zn2+ is greater in the closed state of hHV1. Supporting this hypothesis, pulse pairs revealed a rapid component of activation whose amplitude decreased after longer intervals at negative voltages as closed channels bound Zn2+. The lower affinity of Zn2+ in open channels is consistent with the idea that structural rearrangements within the transmembrane region bring Arg205 near position 116, electrostatically expelling Zn2+. This phenomenon provides direct evidence that Asp185 opposes position 116 in closed channels and that Arg205 moves between them when the channel opens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Boris Musset
- Institut für Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität, Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Deri Morgan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago IL
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
| | - Susan M E Smith
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA
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21
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Zhao R, Dai H, Arias RJ, De Blas GA, Orta G, Pavarotti MA, Shen R, Perozo E, Mayorga LS, Darszon A, Goldstein SAN. Direct activation of the proton channel by albumin leads to human sperm capacitation and sustained release of inflammatory mediators by neutrophils. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3855. [PMID: 34158477 PMCID: PMC8219737 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Human voltage-gated proton channels (hHv1) extrude protons from cells to compensate for charge and osmotic imbalances due metabolism, normalizing intracellular pH and regulating protein function. Human albumin (Alb), present at various levels throughout the body, regulates oncotic pressure and transports ligands. Here, we report Alb is required to activate hHv1 in sperm and neutrophils. Dose-response studies reveal the concentration of Alb in semen is too low to activate hHv1 in sperm whereas the higher level in uterine fluid yields proton efflux, allowing capacitation, the acrosomal reaction, and oocyte fertilization. Likewise, Alb activation of hHv1 in neutrophils is required to sustain production and release of reactive oxygen species during the immune respiratory burst. One Alb binds to both voltage sensor domains (VSDs) in hHv1, enhancing open probability and increasing proton current. A computational model of the Alb-hHv1 complex, validated by experiments, identifies two sites in Alb domain II that interact with the VSDs, suggesting an electrostatic gating modification mechanism favoring the active "up" sensor conformation. This report shows how sperm are triggered to fertilize, resolving how hHv1 opens at negative membrane potentials in sperm, and describes a role for Alb in physiology that will operate in the many tissues expressing hHv1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiming Zhao
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology & Biophysics, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Hui Dai
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology & Biophysics, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rodolfo J Arias
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, CP, Argentina
| | - Gerardo A De Blas
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, CP, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Telediagnóstico e Investigación Traslacional (LaTIT). Área de Farmacología. Departamento de Patología, School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, CP, Argentina
| | - Gerardo Orta
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos, México
| | - Martín A Pavarotti
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, CP, Argentina
| | - Rong Shen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gordon Center for Integrative Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eduardo Perozo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Gordon Center for Integrative Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Luis S Mayorga
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, CP, Argentina
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos, México
| | - Steve A N Goldstein
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology & Biophysics, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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22
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Kaur D, Khaniya U, Zhang Y, Gunner MR. Protein Motifs for Proton Transfers That Build the Transmembrane Proton Gradient. Front Chem 2021; 9:660954. [PMID: 34211960 PMCID: PMC8239185 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.660954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological membranes are barriers to polar molecules, so membrane embedded proteins control the transfers between cellular compartments. Protein controlled transport moves substrates and activates cellular signaling cascades. In addition, the electrochemical gradient across mitochondrial, bacterial and chloroplast membranes, is a key source of stored cellular energy. This is generated by electron, proton and ion transfers through proteins. The gradient is used to fuel ATP synthesis and to drive active transport. Here the mechanisms by which protons move into the buried active sites of Photosystem II (PSII), bacterial RCs (bRCs) and through the proton pumps, Bacteriorhodopsin (bR), Complex I and Cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), are reviewed. These proteins all use water filled proton transfer paths. The proton pumps, that move protons uphill from low to high concentration compartments, also utilize Proton Loading Sites (PLS), that transiently load and unload protons and gates, which block backflow of protons. PLS and gates should be synchronized so PLS proton affinity is high when the gate opens to the side with few protons and low when the path is open to the high concentration side. Proton transfer paths in the proteins we describe have different design features. Linear paths are seen with a unique entry and exit and a relatively straight path between them. Alternatively, paths can be complex with a tangle of possible routes. Likewise, PLS can be a single residue that changes protonation state or a cluster of residues with multiple charge and tautomer states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Kaur
- Department of Chemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Physics, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Umesh Khaniya
- Department of Physics, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Physics, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Department of Physics, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Physics, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - M R Gunner
- Department of Chemistry, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Physics, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Physics, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
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23
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Qaswal AB, Ababneh O, Khreesha L, Al-Ani A, Suleihat A, Abbad M. Mathematical Modeling of Ion Quantum Tunneling Reveals Novel Properties of Voltage-Gated Channels and Quantum Aspects of Their Pathophysiology in Excitability-Related Disorders. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:116-154. [PMID: 35366274 PMCID: PMC8830480 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated channels are crucial in action potential initiation and propagation and there are many diseases and disorders related to them. Additionally, the classical mechanics are the main mechanics used to describe the function of the voltage-gated channels and their related abnormalities. However, the quantum mechanics should be considered to unravel new aspects in the voltage-gated channels and resolve the problems and challenges that classical mechanics cannot solve. In the present study, the aim is to mathematically show that quantum mechanics can exhibit a powerful tendency to unveil novel electrical features in voltage-gated channels and be used as a promising tool to solve the problems and challenges in the pathophysiology of excitability-related diseases. The model of quantum tunneling of ions through the intracellular hydrophobic gate is used to evaluate the influence of membrane potential and gating free energy on the tunneling probability, single channel conductance, and quantum membrane conductance. This evaluation is mainly based on graphing the mathematical relationships between these variables. The obtained mathematical graphs showed that ions can achieve significant quantum membrane conductance, which can affect the resting membrane potential and the excitability of cells. In the present work, quantum mechanics reveals original electrical properties associated with voltage-gated channels and introduces new insights and implications into the pathophysiology of excitability- related disorders. In addition, the present work sets a mathematical and theoretical framework that can be utilized to conduct experimental studies in order to explore the quantum aspects of voltage-gated channels and the quantum bioelectrical property of biological membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Barjas Qaswal
- Department of Internship Program, Jordan University Hospital, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Omar Ababneh
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Lubna Khreesha
- Department of Special Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Abdallah Al-Ani
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
| | - Ahmad Suleihat
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (A.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Mutaz Abbad
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan; (A.S.); (M.A.)
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24
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Zhao C, Tombola F. Voltage-gated proton channels from fungi highlight role of peripheral regions in channel activation. Commun Biol 2021; 4:261. [PMID: 33637875 PMCID: PMC7910559 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-01792-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we report the identification and characterization of the first proton channels from fungi. The fungal proteins are related to animal voltage-gated Hv channels and are conserved in both higher and lower fungi. Channels from Basidiomycota and Ascomycota appear to be evolutionally and functionally distinct. Representatives from the two phyla share several features with their animal counterparts, including structural organization and strong proton selectivity, but they differ from each other and from animal Hvs in terms of voltage range of activation, pharmacology, and pH sensitivity. The activation gate of Hv channels is believed to be contained within the transmembrane core of the protein and little is known about contributions of peripheral regions to the activation mechanism. Using a chimeragenesis approach, we find that intra- and extracellular peripheral regions are main determinants of the voltage range of activation in fungal channels, highlighting the role of these overlooked components in channel gating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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25
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Alberini G, Benfenati F, Maragliano L. Structural Mechanism of ω-Currents in a Mutated Kv7.2 Voltage Sensor Domain from Molecular Dynamics Simulations. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:1354-1367. [PMID: 33570938 PMCID: PMC8023575 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.0c01407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Activation of voltage-gated
ion channels is regulated by conformational
changes of the voltage sensor domains (VSDs), four water- and ion-impermeable
modules peripheral to the central, permeable pore domain. Anomalous
currents, defined as ω-currents, have been recorded in response
to mutations of residues on the VSD S4 helix and associated with ion
fluxes through the VSDs. In humans, gene defects in the potassium
channel Kv7.2 result in a broad range of epileptic disorders, from
benign neonatal seizures to severe epileptic encephalopathies. Experimental
evidence suggests that the R207Q mutation in S4, associated with peripheral
nerve hyperexcitability, induces ω-currents at depolarized potentials,
but the fine structural details are still elusive. In this work, we
use atom-detailed molecular dynamics simulations and a refined model
structure of the Kv7.2 VSD in the active conformation in a membrane/water
environment to study the effect of R207Q and four additional mutations
of proven clinical importance. Our results demonstrate that the R207Q
mutant shows the most pronounced increase of hydration in the internal
VSD cavity, a feature favoring the occurrence of ω-currents.
Free energy and kinetics calculations of sodium permeation through
the native and mutated VSD indicate as more favorable the formation
of a cationic current in the latter. Overall, our simulations establish
a mechanistic linkage between genetic variations and their physiological
outcome, by providing a computational description that includes both
thermodynamic and kinetic features of ion permeation associated with
ω-currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Alberini
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN@UniGe), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 10, 16132 Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN@UniGe), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 10, 16132 Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Luca Maragliano
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology (NSYN@UniGe), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 10, 16132 Genova, Italy.,Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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26
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Rao S, Klesse G, Lynch CI, Tucker SJ, Sansom MSP. Molecular Simulations of Hydrophobic Gating of Pentameric Ligand Gated Ion Channels: Insights into Water and Ions. J Phys Chem B 2021; 125:981-994. [PMID: 33439645 PMCID: PMC7869105 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.0c09285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are proteins which form gated nanopores in biological membranes. Many channels exhibit hydrophobic gating, whereby functional closure of a pore occurs by local dewetting. The pentameric ligand gated ion channels (pLGICs) provide a biologically important example of hydrophobic gating. Molecular simulation studies comparing additive vs polarizable models indicate predictions of hydrophobic gating are robust to the model employed. However, polarizable models suggest favorable interactions of hydrophobic pore-lining regions with chloride ions, of relevance to both synthetic carriers and channel proteins. Electrowetting of a closed pLGIC hydrophobic gate requires too high a voltage to occur physiologically but may inform designs for switchable nanopores. Global analysis of ∼200 channels yields a simple heuristic for structure-based prediction of (closed) hydrophobic gates. Simulation-based analysis is shown to provide an aid to interpretation of functional states of new channel structures. These studies indicate the importance of understanding the behavior of water and ions within the nanoconfined environment presented by ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanlin Rao
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, U.K.
| | - Gianni Klesse
- Clarendon
Laboratory, Department of Physics, University
of Oxford, Oxford, U.K.
| | | | - Stephen J. Tucker
- Clarendon
Laboratory, Department of Physics, University
of Oxford, Oxford, U.K.
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27
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Smith RY, Morgan D, Sharma L, Cherny VV, Tidswell N, Molo MW, DeCoursey TE. Voltage-gated proton channels exist in the plasma membrane of human oocytes. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1974-1983. [PMID: 31633762 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do human oocytes express voltage-gated proton channels? SUMMARY ANSWER Human oocytes exhibit voltage-gated proton currents. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Voltage-gated proton currents have been reported in human sperm, where they contribute to capacitation and motility. No such studies of human oocytes exist. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Voltage-clamp studies were undertaken using entire oocytes and vesicles derived from oocytes and in excised patches of membrane from oocytes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Frozen, thawed human metaphase II oocytes were obtained from material donated to the gamete repository at the Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care. Prior to patch clamping, oocytes were warmed and equilibrated. Formation of an electrically tight seal requires exposing bare oolemma. Sections of the zona pellucida (ZP) were removed using a laser, followed by repeated pipetting, to further separate the oocyte from the ZP. Patch-clamp studies were performed using the whole-cell configuration on oocytes or vesicles derived from oocytes, and using inside-out patches of membrane, under conditions optimized to detect voltage-gated proton currents. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Proton currents are present at significant levels in human oocytes where they exhibit properties similar to those reported in other human cells, as well as those in heterologous expression systems transfected with the HVCN1 gene that codes for the voltage-gated proton channel. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Human oocytes are large cells, which limits our ability to control the intracellular solution. Subtle effects of cryopreservation by vitrification and subsequent warming on properties of HVCN1, the HVCN1 gene product, cannot be ruled out. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Possible functions for voltage-gated proton channels in human oocytes may now be contemplated. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) NIH R35GM126902 (TED), Bears Care (DM). No competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ya Smith
- Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - D Morgan
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - L Sharma
- Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - V V Cherny
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - N Tidswell
- Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - M W Molo
- Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - T E DeCoursey
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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28
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Abstract
The voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 is a member of the voltage-gated ion channel superfamily, which stands out in design: It is a dimer of two voltage-sensing domains (VSDs), each containing a pore pathway, a voltage sensor (S4), and a gate (S1) and forming its own ion channel. Opening of the two channels in the dimer is cooperative. Part of the cooperativity is due to association between coiled-coil domains that extend intracellularly from the S4s. Interactions between the transmembrane portions of the subunits may also contribute, but the nature of transmembrane packing is unclear. Using functional analysis of a mutagenesis scan, biochemistry, and modeling, we find that the subunits form a dimer interface along the entire length of S1, and also have intersubunit contacts between S1 and S4. These interactions exert a strong effect on gating, in particular on the stability of the open state. Our results suggest that gating in Hv1 is tuned by extensive VSD-VSD interactions between the gates and voltage sensors of the dimeric channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Mony
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS UMR 8197, INSERM U1024, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - David Stroebel
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS UMR 8197, INSERM U1024, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Ehud Y Isacoff
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720;
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Bioscience Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
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29
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Voltage-dependent structural models of the human Hv1 proton channel from long-timescale molecular dynamics simulations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:13490-13498. [PMID: 32461356 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920943117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated Hv1 proton channel is a ubiquitous membrane protein that has roles in a variety of cellular processes, including proton extrusion, pH regulation, production of reactive oxygen species, proliferation of cancer cells, and increased brain damage during ischemic stroke. A crystal structure of an Hv1 construct in a putative closed state has been reported, and structural models for the channel open state have been proposed, but a complete characterization of the Hv1 conformational dynamics under an applied membrane potential has been elusive. We report structural models of the Hv1 voltage-sensing domain (VSD), both in a hyperpolarized state and a depolarized state resulting from voltage-dependent conformational changes during a 10-μs-timescale atomistic molecular dynamics simulation in an explicit membrane environment. In response to a depolarizing membrane potential, the S4 helix undergoes an outward displacement, leading to changes in the VSD internal salt-bridge network, resulting in a reshaping of the permeation pathway and a significant increase in hydrogen bond connectivity throughout the channel. The total gating charge displacement associated with this transition is consistent with experimental estimates. Molecular docking calculations confirm the proposed mechanism for the inhibitory action of 2-guanidinobenzimidazole (2GBI) derived from electrophysiological measurements and mutagenesis. The depolarized structural model is also consistent with the formation of a metal bridge between residues located in the core of the VSD. Taken together, our results suggest that these structural models are representative of the closed and open states of the Hv1 channel.
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30
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Jardin C, Chaves G, Musset B. Assessing Structural Determinants of Zn 2+ Binding to Human H V1 via Multiple MD Simulations. Biophys J 2020; 118:1221-1233. [PMID: 31972155 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2019.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton channels (HV1) are essential for various physiological tasks but are strongly inhibited by Zn2+ cations. Some determinants of Zn2+ binding have been elucidated experimentally and in computational studies. However, the results have always been interpreted under the assumption that Zn2+ binds to monomeric HV1 despite evidence that HV1 expresses as a dimer and that the dimer has a higher affinity for zinc than the monomer and experimental data that suggest coordination in the dimer interface. The results of former studies are also controversial, e.g., supporting either one single or two binding sites. Some structural determinants of the binding are still elusive. We performed a series of molecular dynamics simulations to address different structures of the human proton channel, the monomer and two plausible dimer conformations, to compare their respective potential to interact with and bind Zn2+ via the essential histidines. The series consisted of several copies of the system to generate independent trajectories and increase the significance compared to a single simulation. The amount of time simulated totals 29.9 μs for 126 simulations of systems comprising ∼59,000 to ∼187,000 atoms. Our approach confirms the existence of two binding sites in monomeric and dimeric human HV1. The dimer interface is more efficient for attracting and binding Zn2+ via the essential histidines than the monomer or a dimer with the histidines in the periphery. The higher affinity is due to the residues in the dimer interface that create an attractive electrostatic potential funneling the zinc cations toward the binding sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Jardin
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Boris Musset
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany.
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