Requirement of ryanodine receptor subtypes 1 and 2 for Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release in vascular myocytes

Calcium signaling in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells: sex differences and the influence of estrogens and androgens

Calcium signaling in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is essential for the regulation of vascular tone. However, the changes to intracellular Ca2+ concentrations are often influenced by sex differences. Furthermore, a large body of evidence shows that sex hormone imbalance leads to dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling and this is a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, the effects of estrogens and androgens on vascular calcium-handling proteins are discussed, with emphasis on the associated genomic or nongenomic molecular mechanisms. The experimental models from which data were collected were also considered. The review highlights 1) in female ECs, transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) and mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) enhance Ca2+-dependent nitric oxide (NO) generation. In males, only transient receptor potential canonical 3 (TRPC3) plays a fundamental role in this effect. 2) Female VSMCs have lower cytosolic Ca2+ levels than males due to differences in the activity and expression of stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 (Orai1), calcium voltage-gated channel subunit-α1C (CaV1.2), Na+-K+-2Cl- symporter (NKCC1), and the Na+/K+-ATPase. 3) When compared with androgens, the influence of estrogens on Ca2+ homeostasis, vascular tone, and incidence of vascular disease is better documented. 4) Many studies use supraphysiological concentrations of sex hormones, which may limit the physiological relevance of outcomes. 5) Sex-dependent differences in Ca2+ signaling mean both sexes ought to be included in experimental design.

Role of ryanodine receptor 2 and FK506-binding protein 12.6 dissociation in pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a devastating disease characterized by a progressive increase in pulmonary arterial pressure leading to right ventricular failure and death. A major cellular response in this disease is the contraction of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the pulmonary vasculature. Cell contraction is determined by the increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), which is generated and regulated by various ion channels. Several studies by us and others have shown that ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), a Ca2+-releasing channel in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), is an essential ion channel for the control of [Ca2+]i in pulmonary artery SMCs (PASMCs), thereby mediating the sustained vasoconstriction seen in PH. FK506-binding protein 12.6 (FKBP12.6) strongly associates with RyR2 to stabilize its functional activity. FKBP12.6 can be dissociated from RyR2 by a hypoxic stimulus to increase channel function and Ca2+ release, leading to pulmonary vasoconstriction and PH. More specifically, dissociation of the RyR2-FKBP12.6 complex is a consequence of increased mitochondrial ROS generation mediated by the Rieske iron-sulfur protein (RISP) at the mitochondrial complex III after hypoxia. Overall, RyR2/FKBP12.6 dissociation and the corresponding signaling pathway may be an important factor in the development of PH. Novel drugs and biologics targeting RyR2, FKBP12.6, and related molecules may become unique effective therapeutics for PH.

Defining the role of TRPM4 in broadly responsive taste receptor cells

Peripheral taste receptor cells use multiple signaling pathways to transduce taste stimuli into output signals that are sent to the brain. We have previously identified a subpopulation of Type III taste cells that are broadly responsive (BR) and respond to multiple taste stimuli including bitter, sweet, umami, and sour. These BR cells use a PLCβ3/IP₃R1 signaling pathway to detect bitter, sweet, and umami stimuli and use a separate pathway to detect sour. Currently, the downstream targets of the PLCβ3 signaling pathway are unknown. Here we identify TRPM4, a monovalent selective TRP channel, as an important downstream component in this signaling pathway. Using live cell imaging on isolated taste receptor cells from mice, we show that inhibition of TRPM4 abolished the taste-evoked sodium responses and significantly reduced the taste-evoked calcium responses in BR cells. Since BR cells are a subpopulation of Type III taste cells, they have conventional chemical synapses that require the activation of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) to cause neurotransmitter release. We found that TRPM4-dependent membrane depolarization selectively activates L-type VGCCs in these cells. The calcium influx through L-type VGCCs also generates a calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) via ryanodine receptors that enhances TRPM4 activity. Together these signaling events amplify the initial taste response to generate an appropriate output signal.

MicroRNA-210 Mediates Hypoxia-Induced Repression of Spontaneous Transient Outward Currents in Sheep Uterine Arteries During Gestation

[Figure: see text].

Structure and Function of the Human Ryanodine Receptors and Their Association with Myopathies-Present State, Challenges, and Perspectives

Cardiac arrhythmias are serious, life-threatening diseases associated with the dysregulation of Ca2+ influx into the cytoplasm of cardiomyocytes. This dysregulation often arises from dysfunction of ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), the principal Ca2+ release channel. Dysfunction of RyR1, the skeletal muscle isoform, also results in less severe, but also potentially life-threatening syndromes. The RYR2 and RYR1 genes have been found to harbor three main mutation “hot spots”, where mutations change the channel structure, its interdomain interface properties, its interactions with its binding partners, or its dynamics. In all cases, the result is a defective release of Ca2+ ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum into the myocyte cytoplasm. Here, we provide an overview of the most frequent diseases resulting from mutations to RyR1 and RyR2, briefly review some of the recent experimental structural work on these two molecules, detail some of the computational work describing their dynamics, and summarize the known changes to the structure and function of these receptors with particular emphasis on their N-terminal, central, and channel domains.

Elementary calcium signaling in arterial smooth muscle

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of small peripheral arteries contribute to blood pressure control by adapting their contractile state. These adaptations depend on the VSMC cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration, regulated by complex local elementary Ca²⁺ signaling pathways. Ca²⁺ sparks represent local, transient, rapid calcium release events from a cluster of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In arterial SMCs, Ca²⁺ sparks activate nearby calcium-dependent potassium channels, cause membrane hyperpolarization and thus decrease the global intracellular [Ca²⁺] to oppose vasoconstriction. Arterial SMC Ca_v1.2 L-type channels regulate intracellular calcium stores content, which in turn modulates calcium efflux through RyRs. Ca_v3.2 T-type channels contribute to a minor extend to Ca²⁺ spark generation in certain types of arteries. Their localization within cell membrane caveolae is essential. We summarize present data on local elementary calcium signaling (Ca²⁺ sparks) in arterial SMCs with focus on RyR isoforms, large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium (BK_Ca) channels, and cell membrane-bound calcium channels (Ca_v1.2 and Ca_v3.2), particularly in caveolar microdomains.

Ryanodine receptor subtypes regulate Ca2+ sparks/spontaneous transient outward currents and myogenic tone of uterine arteries in pregnancy

AIMS

Our recent study demonstrated that increased Ca2+ sparks and spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) played an important role in uterine vascular tone and haemodynamic adaptation to pregnancy. The present study examined the role of ryanodine receptor (RyR) subtypes in regulating Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and myogenic tone in uterine arterial adaptation to pregnancy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Uterine arteries isolated from non-pregnant and near-term pregnant sheep were used in the present study. Pregnancy increased the association of α and β1 subunits of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channels and enhanced the co-localization of RyR1 and RyR2 with the β1 subunit in the uterine artery. In contrast, RyR3 was not co-localized with BKCa β1 subunit. Knockdown of RyR1 or RyR2 in uterine arteries of pregnant sheep downregulated the β1 but not α subunit of the BKCa channel and decreased the association of α and β1 subunits. Unlike RyR1 and RyR2, knockdown of RyR3 had no significant effect on either expression or association of BKCa subunits. In addition, knockdown of RyR1 or RyR2 significantly decreased Ca2+ spark frequency, suppressed STOCs frequency and amplitude, and increased pressure-dependent myogenic tone in uterine arteries of pregnant animals. RyR3 knockdown did not affect Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and myogenic tone in the uterine artery.

CONCLUSION

Together, the present study demonstrates a novel mechanistic paradigm of RyR subtypes in the regulation of Ca2+ sparks/STOCs and uterine vascular tone, providing new insights into the mechanisms underlying uterine vascular adaptation to pregnancy.

Aging alters spontaneous and neurotransmitter-mediated Ca2+ signaling in smooth muscle cells of mouse mesenteric arteries

OBJECTIVE

Aging impairs MA dilation by reducing the ability of sensory nerves to counteract sympathetic vasoconstriction. This study tested whether altered SMC Ca²⁺ signals to sympathetic (NE) and sensory (CGRP) neurotransmitters underlie aging-related deficits in vasodilation.

METHODS

MAs from young and old mice were pressurized and loaded with Fluo-4 dye for confocal measurement of SMC Ca²⁺ sparks and waves. Endothelial denudation resolved the influence of ECs. SMCs were immunolabeled for RyR isoforms and compared with transcript levels for RyRs and CGRP receptor components.

RESULTS

SMCs from young vs old mice exhibited more spontaneous Ca²⁺ spark sites with no difference in Ca²⁺ waves. NE reduced spark sites and increased waves for both groups; addition of CGRP restored sparks and reduced waves only for young mice. Endothelial denudation attenuated Ca²⁺ responses to CGRP for young but not old mice, which were already attenuated, suggesting a diminished role for ECs with aging. CGRP receptor expression was similar between ages with increased serum CGRP in old mice, where RyR1 expression was replaced by RyR3.

CONCLUSION

With aging, we suggest that altered RyR expression in SMCs contributes to impaired ability of sensory neurotransmission to restore Ca²⁺ signaling underlying vasomotor control during sympathetic activation.

Role of Ryanodine Type 2 Receptors in Elementary Ca2+ Signaling in Arteries and Vascular Adaptive Responses

Background Hypertension is the major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the most common cause of death worldwide. Resistance arteries are capable of adapting their diameter independently in response to pressure and flow-associated shear stress. Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are major Ca2+-release channels in the sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane of myocytes that contribute to the regulation of contractility. Vascular smooth muscle cells exhibit 3 different RyR isoforms (RyR1, RyR2, and RyR3), but the impact of individual RyR isoforms on adaptive vascular responses is largely unknown. Herein, we generated tamoxifen-inducible smooth muscle cell-specific RyR2-deficient mice and tested the hypothesis that vascular smooth muscle cell RyR2s play a specific role in elementary Ca2+ signaling and adaptive vascular responses to vascular pressure and/or flow. Methods and Results Targeted deletion of the Ryr2 gene resulted in a complete loss of sarcoplasmic reticulum-mediated Ca2+-release events and associated Ca2+-activated, large-conductance K+ channel currents in peripheral arteries, leading to increased myogenic tone and systemic blood pressure. In the absence of RyR2, the pulmonary artery pressure response to sustained hypoxia was enhanced, but flow-dependent effects, including blood flow recovery in ischemic hind limbs, were unaffected. Conclusions Our results establish that RyR2-mediated Ca2+-release events in VSCM s specifically regulate myogenic tone (systemic circulation) and arterial adaptation in response to changes in pressure (hypoxic lung model), but not flow. They further suggest that vascular smooth muscle cell-expressed RyR2 deserves scrutiny as a therapeutic target for the treatment of vascular responses in hypertension and chronic vascular diseases.

Voltage-gated Ca2+ channel activity modulates smooth muscle cell calcium waves in hamster cremaster arterioles

Cremaster muscle arteriolar smooth muscle cells (SMCs) display inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-dependent Ca²⁺ waves that contribute to global myoplasmic Ca²⁺ concentration and myogenic tone. However, the contribution made by voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels (VGCCs) to arteriolar SMC Ca²⁺ waves is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that VGCC activity modulates SMC Ca²⁺ waves in pressurized (80 cmH₂O/59 mmHg, 34°C) hamster cremaster muscle arterioles loaded with Fluo-4 and imaged by confocal microscopy. Removal of extracellular Ca²⁺ dilated arterioles (32 ± 3 to 45 ± 3 μm, n = 15, P < 0.05) and inhibited the occurrence, amplitude, and frequency of Ca²⁺ waves ( n = 15, P < 0.05), indicating dependence of Ca²⁺ waves on Ca²⁺ influx. Blockade of VGCCs with nifedipine (1 μM) or diltiazem (10 μM) or deactivation of VGCCs by hyperpolarization of smooth muscle with the K⁺ channel agonist cromakalim (10 μM) produced similar inhibition of Ca²⁺ waves ( P < 0.05). Conversely, depolarization of SMCs with the K⁺ channel blocker tetraethylammonium (1 mM) constricted arterioles from 26 ± 3 to 14 ± 2 μm ( n = 11, P < 0.05) and increased wave occurrence (9 ± 3 to 16 ± 3 waves/SMC), amplitude (1.6 ± 0.07 to 1.9 ± 0.1), and frequency (0.5 ± 0.1 to 0.9 ± 0.2 Hz, n = 10, P < 0.05), effects that were blocked by nifedipine (1 μM, P < 0.05). Similarly, the VGCC agonist Bay K8644 (5 nM) constricted arterioles from 14 ± 1 to 8 ± 1 μm and increased wave occurrence (3 ± 1 to 10 ± 1 waves/SMC) and frequency (0.2 ± 0.1 to 0.6 ± 0.1 Hz, n = 6, P < 0.05), effects that were unaltered by ryanodine (50 μM, n = 6, P > 0.05). These data support the hypothesis that Ca²⁺ waves in arteriolar SMCs depend, in part, on the activity of VGCCs. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Arterioles that control blood flow to and within skeletal muscle depend on Ca²⁺ influx through voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels and release of Ca²⁺ from internal stores through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in the form of Ca²⁺ waves to maintain pressure-induced smooth muscle tone.

Impaired Ca2+ handling in resistance arteries from genetically obese Zucker rats: Role of the PI3K, ERK1/2 and PKC signaling pathways

The impact of obesity on vascular smooth muscle (VSM) Ca²⁺ handling and vasoconstriction, and its regulation by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and protein kinase C (PKC) were assessed in mesenteric arteries (MA) from obese Zucker rats (OZR). Simultaneous measurements of intracellular Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_i) and tension were performed in MA from OZR and compared to lean Zucker rats (LZR), and the effects of selective inhibitors of PI3K, ERK-MAPK kinase and PKC were assessed on the functional responses of VSM voltage-dependent L-type Ca²⁺ channels (Ca_V1.2). Increases in [Ca²⁺]_i induced by α₁-adrenoceptor activation and high K⁺ depolarization were not different in arteries from LZR and OZR although vasoconstriction was enhanced in OZR. Blockade of the ryanodine receptor (RyR) and of Ca²⁺ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) markedly reduced depolarization-induced Ca²⁺ responses in arteries from lean but not obese rats, suggesting impaired Ca²⁺-induced Ca²⁺ release (CICR) from SR in arteries from OZR. Enhanced Ca²⁺ influx after treatment with ryanodine was abolished by nifedipine and coupled to up-regulation of Ca_V1.2 channels in arteries from OZR. Increased activation of ERK-MAPK and up-regulation of PI3Kδ, PKCβ and δ isoforms were associated to larger inhibitory effects of PI3K, MAPK and PKC blockers on VSM L-type channel Ca²⁺ entry in OZR. Changes in arterial Ca²⁺ handling in obesity involve SR Ca²⁺ store dysfunction and enhanced VSM Ca²⁺ entry through L-type channels, linked to a compensatory up-regulation of Ca_V1.2 proteins and increased activity of the ERK-MAPK, PI3Kδ and PKCβ and δ, signaling pathways.

Negative regulation of cellular Ca2+ mobilization by ryanodine receptor type 3 in mouse mesenteric artery smooth muscle

Physiological functions of type 3 ryanodine receptors (RyR3) in smooth muscle (SM) tissues are not well understood, in spite of their wide expression. However, the short isoform of RyR3 is known to be a dominant-negative variant (DN-RyR3), which may negatively regulate functions of both RyR2 and full-length (FL) RyR3 by forming hetero-tetramers. Here, functional roles of RyR3 in the regulation of Ca²⁺ signaling in mesenteric artery SM cells (MASMCs) were examined using RyR3 homozygous knockout mice (RyR3^-/-). Quantitative PCR analyses suggested that the predominant RyR3 subtype in MASMs from wild-type mice (RyR3^+/+) was DN-RyR3. In single MASMCs freshly isolated from RyR3^-/-, the EC₅₀ of caffeine to induce Ca²⁺ release was lower than that in RyR3^+/+ myocytes. The amplitude and frequency of Ca²⁺ sparks and spontaneous transient outward currents in MASMCs from RyR3^-/- were all larger than those from RyR3^+/+. Importantly, mRNA and functional expressions of voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel and large-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (BK) channel in MASMCs from RyR3^-/- were identical to those from RyR3^+/+. However, in the presence of BK channel inhibitor, paxilline, the pressure rises induced by BayK8644 in MA vascular beds of RyR3^-/- were significantly larger than in those of RyR3^+/+. This indicates that the negative feedback effects of BK channel activity on intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling was enhanced in RyR3^-/-. Thus, RyR3, and, in fact, mainly DN-RyR3, via a complex with RyR2 suppresses Ca²⁺ release and indirectly regulated membrane potential by reducing BK channel activity in MASMCs and presumably can affect the regulation of intrinsic vascular tone.

Prolonged bed rest impairs rapid CPI-17 phosphorylation and contraction in rat mesenteric resistance arteries to cause orthostatic hypotension

Prolonged bed rest (PBR) causes orthostatic hypotension (OH). Rapid constriction of splanchnic resistance arteries in response to a sudden increase in sympathetic tone contributes to the recovery of orthostatic arterial pressure upon standing. However, the molecular mechanism of PBR-induced dysfunction in arterial constriction is not fully understood. Previously, we showed that CPI-17, a regulatory protein for myosin phosphatase, mediates α_1A-adrenergic receptor-induced rapid contraction of small mesenteric arteries. Here, we tested whether PBR associated with OH affects the α₁-adrenergic receptor-induced CPI-17 signaling pathway in mesenteric arteries using rats treated by head-down tail-suspension hindlimb unloading (HDU), an experimental OH model. In normal anesthetized rats, mean arterial pressure (MAP) rapidly reduced upon 90° head-up tilt from supine position and then immediately recovered without change in heart rate, suggesting a rapid arterial constriction. On the other hand, after a 4-week HDU treatment, the fast orthostatic MAP recovery failed for 1 min. Alpha1A subtype-specific antagonist suppressed the orthostatic MAP recovery with a small decrease in basal blood pressure, whereas non-specific α₁-antagonist prazosin strongly reduced both basal MAP and orthostatic recovery. The HDU treatment resulted in 68% reduction in contraction in parallel with 83% reduction in CPI-17 phosphorylation in denuded mesenteric arteries 10 s after α₁-agonist stimulation. The treatment with either Ca²⁺-release channel opener or PKC inhibitor mimicked the deficiency in HDU arteries. These results suggest that an impairment of the rapid PKC/CPI-17 signaling pathway downstream of α_1A-adrenoceptors in peripheral arterial constriction, as an end organ of orthostatic blood pressure reflex, is associated with OH in prolonged bed rest patients.

Presenilin 1 mutation decreases both calcium and contractile responses in cerebral arteries

Mutations or upregulation in presenilin 1 (PS1) gene are found in familial early-onset Alzheimer's disease or sporadic late-onset Alzheimer's disease, respectively. PS1 has been essentially studied in neurons and its mutation was shown to alter intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺) signals. Here, we showed that PS1 is expressed in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of mouse cerebral arteries, and we assessed the effects of the deletion of exon 9 of PS1 (PS1dE9) on Ca²⁺ signals and contractile responses of vascular SMC. Agonist-induced contraction of cerebral vessels was significantly decreased in PS1dE9 both in vivo and ex vivo. Spontaneous activity of Ca²⁺ sparks through ryanodine-sensitive channels (RyR) was unchanged, whereas the RyR-mediated Ca²⁺-release activated by caffeine was shorter in PS1dE9 SMC when compared with control. Moreover, PS1dE9 mutation decreased the caffeine-activated capacitive Ca²⁺ entry, and inhibitors of SERCA pumps reversed the effects of PS1dE9 on Ca²⁺ signals. PS1dE9 mutation also leads to the increased expression of SERCA3, phospholamban, and RyR3. These results show that PS1 plays a crucial role in the cerebrovascular system and the vascular reactivity is decreased through altered Ca²⁺ signals in PS1dE9 mutant mice.

Smooth Muscle Ion Channels and Regulation of Vascular Tone in Resistance Arteries and Arterioles

Vascular tone of resistance arteries and arterioles determines peripheral vascular resistance, contributing to the regulation of blood pressure and blood flow to, and within the body's tissues and organs. Ion channels in the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in these blood vessels importantly contribute to the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration, the primary determinant of SMC contractile activity and vascular tone. Ion channels provide the main source of activator Ca2+ that determines vascular tone, and strongly contribute to setting and regulating membrane potential, which, in turn, regulates the open-state-probability of voltage gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs), the primary source of Ca2+ in resistance artery and arteriolar SMCs. Ion channel function is also modulated by vasoconstrictors and vasodilators, contributing to all aspects of the regulation of vascular tone. This review will focus on the physiology of VGCCs, voltage-gated K+ (KV) channels, large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channels, strong-inward-rectifier K+ (KIR) channels, ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels, ryanodine receptors (RyRs), inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), and a variety of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels that contribute to pressure-induced myogenic tone in resistance arteries and arterioles, the modulation of the function of these ion channels by vasoconstrictors and vasodilators, their role in the functional regulation of tissue blood flow and their dysfunction in diseases such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:485-581, 2017.

Calcium Channels in Vascular Smooth Muscle

Calcium (Ca²⁺) plays a central role in excitation, contraction, transcription, and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMs). Precise regulation of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) is crucial for proper physiological VSM function. Studies over the last several decades have revealed that VSMs express a variety of Ca²⁺-permeable channels that orchestrate a dynamic, yet finely tuned regulation of [Ca²⁺]_i. In this review, we discuss the major Ca²⁺-permeable channels expressed in VSM and their contribution to vascular physiology and pathology.

Chronic fetal exposure to caffeine altered resistance vessel functions via RyRs-BKCa down-regulation in rat offspring

Caffeine modifies vascular/cardiac contractility. Embryonic exposure to caffeine altered cardiac functions in offspring. This study determined chronic influence of prenatal caffeine on vessel functions in offspring. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats (5-month-old) were exposed to high dose of caffeine, their offspring (5-month-old) were tested for vascular functions in mesenteric arteries (MA) and ion channel activities in smooth muscle cells. Prenatal exposure to caffeine increased pressor responses and vasoconstrictions to phenylephrine, accompanied by enhanced membrane depolarization. Large conductance Ca2⁺-activated K⁺ (BK_Ca) channels in buffering phenylephrine-induced vasoconstrictions was decreased, whole cell BK_Ca currents and spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) were decreased. Single channel recordings revealed reduced voltage/Ca²⁺ sensitivity of BK_Ca channels. BK_Ca α-subunit expression was unchanged, BK_Ca β1-subunit and sensitivity of BK_Ca to tamoxifen were reduced in the caffeine offspring as altered biophysical properties of BK_Ca in the MA. Simultaneous [Ca²⁺]_i fluorescence and vasoconstriction testing showed reduced Ca²⁺, leading to diminished BK_Ca activation via ryanodine receptor Ca²⁺ release channels (RyRs), causing enhanced vascular tone. Reduced RyR1 was greater than that of RyR3. The results suggest that the altered STOCs activity in the caffeine offspring could attribute to down-regulation of RyRs-BK_Ca, providing new information for further understanding increased risks of hypertension in developmental origins.

Rectification of muscle and nerve deficits in paralyzed ryanodine receptor type 1 mutant embryos

Locomotion and respiration require motor axon connectivity and activation of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Through a forward genetic screen for muscle weakness, we recently reported an allele of ryanodine receptor type 1 (Ryr1(AG)). Here we reveal a role for functional RyR1 during acetylcholine receptor (AChR) cluster formation and embryonic synaptic transmission. Ryr1(AG) homozygous embryos are non-motile. Motor axons extend past AChR clusters and enlarged AChR clusters are found under fasciculated nerves. Using physiological and pharmacological methods, we show that contractility can be resumed through the masking of a potassium leak, and evoked vesicular release can be resumed via bypassing the defect in RyR1 induced calcium release. Moreover, we show the involvement of ryanodine receptors in presynaptic release at the NMJ. This data provides evidence of a role for RyR1 on both the pre- and postsynaptic sides of the NMJ.

Blood brain barrier precludes the cerebral arteries to intravenously-injected antisense oligonucleotide

Alternative splicing of the ryanodine receptor subtype 3 (RyR3) produces a short isoform (RyR3S) able to negatively regulate the ryanodine receptor subtype 2 (RyR2), as shown in cultured smooth muscle cells from mice. The RyR2 subtype has a crucial role in the control of vascular reactivity via the fine tuning of Ca(2+) signaling to regulate cerebral vascular tone. In this study, we have shown that the inhibition of RyR3S expression by a specific antisense oligonucleotide (asRyR3S) was able to increase the Ca(2+) signals implicating RyR2 in cerebral arteries ex vivo. Moreover, we tried to inhibit the expression of RyR3S in vivo. The asRyR3S was complexed with JetPEI and injected intravenously coupled with several methods known to induce a blood brain barrier disruption. We tested solutions to induce osmotic choc (mannitol), inflammation (bacteria lipopolysaccharide and pertussis toxin), vasoconstriction or dilatation (sumatriptan, phenylephrine, histamine), CD73 activation (NECA) and lipid instability (Tween80). All tested technics failed to target asRyR3 in the cerebral arteries wall, whereas the molecule was included in hepatocytes or cardiomyocytes. Our results showed that the RyR3 alternative splicing could have a function in cerebral arteries ex vivo; however, the disruption of the blood brain barrier could not induce the internalization of antisense oligonucleotides in the cerebral arteries, in order to prove the function of RYR3 short isoform in vivo.

Calcineurin upregulates local Ca(2+) signaling through ryanodine receptor-1 in airway smooth muscle cells

Local Ca(2+) signals (Ca(2+) sparks) play an important role in multiple cellular functions in airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Protein kinase Cϵ is known to downregulate ASMC Ca(2+) sparks and contraction; however, no complementary phosphatase has been shown to produce opposite effects. Here, we for the first time report that treatment with a specific calcineurin (CaN) autoinhibitory peptide (CAIP) to block CaN activity decreases, whereas application of nickel to activate CaN increases, Ca(2+) sparks in both the presence and absence of extracellular Ca(2+). Treatment with xestospogin-C to eliminate functional inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors does not prevent CAIP from inhibiting local Ca(2+) signaling. However, high ryanodine treatment almost completely blocks spark formation and prevents the nickel-mediated increase in sparks. Unlike CAIP, the protein phosphatase 2A inhibitor endothall has no effect. Local Ca(2+) signaling is lower in CaN catalytic subunit Aα gene knockout (CaN-Aα(-/-)) mouse ASMCs. The effects of CAIP and nickel are completely lost in CaN-Aα(-/-) ASMCs. Neither CAIP nor nickel produces an effect on Ca(2+) sparks in type 1 ryanodine receptor heterozygous knockout (RyR1(-/+)) mouse ASMCs. However, their effects are not altered in RyR2(-/+) or RyR3(-/-) mouse ASMCs. CaN inhibition decreases methacholine-induced contraction in isolated RyR1(+/+) but not RyR1(-/+) mouse tracheal rings. Supportively, muscarinic contractile responses are also reduced in CaN-Aα(-/+) mouse tracheal rings. Taken together, these results provide novel evidence that CaN regulates ASMC Ca(2+) sparks specifically through RyR1, which plays an important role in the control of Ca(2+) signaling and contraction in ASMCs.

Ca(2+) handling alterations and vascular dysfunction in diabetes

More than 65% of patients with diabetes mellitus die from cardiovascular disease or stroke. Hyperglycemia, due to either reduced insulin secretion or reduced insulin sensitivity, is the hallmark feature of diabetes mellitus. Vascular dysfunction is a distinctive phenotype found in both types of diabetes and could be responsible for the high incidence of stroke, heart attack, and organ damage in diabetic patients. In addition to well-documented endothelial dysfunction, Ca(2+) handling alterations in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a key role in the development and progression of vascular complications in diabetes. VSMCs provide not only structural integrity to the vessels but also control myogenic arterial tone and systemic blood pressure through global and local Ca(2+) signaling. The Ca(2+) signalosome of VSMCs is integrated by an extensive number of Ca(2+) handling proteins (i.e. channels, pumps, exchangers) and related signal transduction components, whose function is modulated by endothelial effectors. This review summarizes recent findings concerning alterations in endothelium and VSMC Ca(2+) signaling proteins that may contribute to the vascular dysfunction found in the diabetic condition.

Mechanisms of [Ca2+]i elevation following P2X receptor activation in the guinea-pig small mesenteric artery myocytes

BACKGROUND

There is growing evidence suggesting involvement of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) in purinergic signaling mechanisms. However, detailed interplay between VGCCs and P2X receptors in intracellular Ca2+ mobilization is not well understood. This study examined relative contribution of the Ca2+ entry mechanisms and induced by this entry Ca2+ release from the intracellular stores engaged by activation of P2X receptors in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from the guinea-pig small mesenteric arteries.

METHODS

P2X receptors were stimulated by the brief local application of αβ-meATP and changes in [Ca2+]i were monitored in fluo-3 loaded SMCs using fast x-y confocal Ca2+ imaging. The effects of the block of L-type VGCCs and/or depletion of the intracellular Ca2+ stores on αβ-meATP-induced [Ca2+]i transients were analyzed.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed that Ca2+ entry via L-type VGCCs is augmented by the Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release significantly more than Ca2+ entry via P2X receptors, even though net Ca2+ influxes provided by the two mechanisms are not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, arterial SMCs upon P2X receptor activation employ an effective mechanism of the Ca2+ signal amplification, the major component of which is the Ca2+ release from the SR activated by Ca2+ influx via L-type VGCCs. This signaling pathway is engaged by depolarization of the myocyte membrane resulting from activation of P2X receptors, which, being Ca2+ permeable, per se form less effective Ca2+ signaling pathway. This study, therefore, rescales potential targets for therapeutic intervention in purinergic control of vascular tone.

Ryanodine receptor calcium release channels: lessons from structure-function studies

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are the largest known ion channels. They are Ca(2+) release channels found primarily on the sarcoplasmic reticulum of myocytes. Several hundred mutations in RyRs are associated with skeletal or cardiomyocyte disease in humans. Many of these mutations can now be mapped onto the high resolution structures of individual RyR domains and on full-length tetrameric cryo-electron microscopy structures. A closely related Ca(2+) release channel, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphospate receptor (IP3 R), shows a conserved structural architecture at the N-terminus, suggesting that both channels evolved from an ancestral unicellular RyR/IP3 R. The functional insights provided by recent structural studies for both channels will aid in the development of rationale treatments for a myriad of Ca(2+)-signaled malignancies.

Implication of the ryanodine receptor in TRPV4-induced calcium response in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells from normoxic and chronically hypoxic rats

There is a growing body of evidence indicating that transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are implicated in calcium signaling and various cellular functions in the pulmonary vasculature. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression, functional role, and coupling to reticulum calcium channels of the type 4 vanilloid TRP subfamily (TRPV4) in the pulmonary artery from both normoxic (Nx) and chronically hypoxic (CH) rats. Activation of TRPV4 with the specific agonist 4α-phorbol-12,13-didecanoate (4α-PDD, 5 μM) increased the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i). This effect was significantly reduced by a high concentration of ryanodine (100 μM) or chronic caffeine (5 mM) that blocked ryanodine receptor (RyR) but was insensitive to xestospongin C (10 μM), an inositol trisphosphate receptor antagonist. Inhibition of RyR1 and RyR3 only with 10 μM of dantrolene did not attenuate the 4α-PDD-induced [Ca2+]i increase. Western blotting experiments revealed the expression of TRPV4 and RyR2 with an increase in both receptors in pulmonary arteries from CH rats vs. Nx rats. Accordingly, the 4α-PDD-activated current, measured with patch-clamp technique, was increased in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) from CH rats vs. Nx rats. 4α-PDD increased isometric tension in artery rings, and this response was also potentiated under chronic hypoxia conditions. 4α-PDD-induced calcium response, current, and contraction were all inhibited by the selective TRPV4 blocker HC-067047. Collectively, our findings provide evidence of the interplay between TRPV4 and RyR2 in the Ca2+ release mechanism and contraction in PASMC. This study provides new insights onto the complex calcium signaling in PASMC and point out the importance of the TRPV4-RyR2 signaling pathway under hypoxic conditions that may lead to pulmonary hypertension.

Effects of spaceflight and ground recovery on mesenteric artery and vein constrictor properties in mice

Following exposure to microgravity, there is a reduced ability of astronauts to augment peripheral vascular resistance, often resulting in orthostatic hypotension. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that mesenteric arteries and veins will exhibit diminished vasoconstrictor responses after spaceflight. Mesenteric arteries and veins from female mice flown on the Space Transportation System (STS)-131 (n=11), STS-133 (n=6), and STS-135 (n=3) shuttle missions and respective ground-based control mice (n=30) were isolated for in vitro experimentation. Vasoconstrictor responses were evoked in arteries via norepinephrine (NE), potassium chloride (KCl), and caffeine, and in veins through NE across a range of intraluminal pressures (2-12 cmH(2)O). Vasoconstriction to NE was also determined in mesenteric arteries at 1, 5, and 7 d postlanding. In arteries, maximal constriction to NE, KCl, and caffeine were reduced immediately following spaceflight and 1 d postflight. Spaceflight also reduced arterial ryanodine receptor-3 mRNA levels. In mesenteric veins, there was diminished constriction to NE after flight. The results indicate that the impaired vasoconstriction following spaceflight occurs through the ryanodine receptor-mediated intracellular Ca(2+) release mechanism. Such vascular changes in astronauts could compromise the maintenance of arterial pressure during orthostatic stress.

Spaceflight reduces vasoconstrictor responsiveness of skeletal muscle resistance arteries in mice

Cardiovascular adaptations to microgravity undermine the physiological capacity to respond to orthostatic challenges upon return to terrestrial gravity. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of spaceflight on vasoconstrictor and myogenic contractile properties of mouse gastrocnemius muscle resistance arteries. We hypothesized that vasoconstrictor responses acting through adrenergic receptors [norepinephrine (NE)], voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (KCl), and stretch-activated (myogenic) mechanisms would be diminished following spaceflight. Feed arteries were isolated from gastrocnemius muscles, cannulated on glass micropipettes, and physiologically pressurized for in vitro experimentation. Vasoconstrictor responses to intraluminal pressure changes (0-140 cmH(2)O), KCl (10-100 mM), and NE (10(-9)-10(-4) M) were measured in spaceflown (SF; n = 11) and ground control (GC; n = 11) female C57BL/6 mice. Spaceflight reduced vasoconstrictor responses to KCl and NE; myogenic vasoconstriction was unaffected. The diminished vasoconstrictor responses were associated with lower ryanodine receptor-2 (RyR-2) and ryanodine receptor-3 (RyR-3) mRNA expression, with no difference in sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic Ca(2+) ATPase 2 mRNA expression. Vessel wall thickness and maximal intraluminal diameter were unaffected by spaceflight. The data indicate a deficit in intracellular calcium release via RyR-2 and RyR-3 in smooth muscle cells as the mechanism of reduced contractile activity in skeletal muscle after spaceflight. Furthermore, the results suggest that impaired end-organ vasoconstrictor responsiveness of skeletal muscle resistance arteries contributes to lower peripheral vascular resistance and less tolerance of orthostatic stress in humans after spaceflight.

Inositol trisphosphate receptors in smooth muscle cells

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs) are a family of tetrameric intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) release channels that are located on the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) membrane of virtually all mammalian cell types, including smooth muscle cells (SMC). Here, we have reviewed literature investigating IP(3)R expression, cellular localization, tissue distribution, activity regulation, communication with ion channels and organelles, generation of Ca(2+) signals, modulation of physiological functions, and alterations in pathologies in SMCs. Three IP(3)R isoforms have been identified, with relative expression and cellular localization of each contributing to signaling differences in diverse SMC types. Several endogenous ligands, kinases, proteins, and other modulators control SMC IP(3)R channel activity. SMC IP(3)Rs communicate with nearby ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+) channels and mitochondria to influence SR Ca(2+) release and reactive oxygen species generation. IP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) release can stimulate plasma membrane-localized channels, including transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and store-operated Ca(2+) channels. SMC IP(3)Rs also signal to other proteins via SR Ca(2+) release-independent mechanisms through physical coupling to TRP channels and local communication with large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated potassium channels. IP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) release generates a wide variety of intracellular Ca(2+) signals, which vary with respect to frequency, amplitude, spatial, and temporal properties. IP(3)R signaling controls multiple SMC functions, including contraction, gene expression, migration, and proliferation. IP(3)R expression and cellular signaling are altered in several SMC diseases, notably asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and hypertension. In summary, IP(3)R-mediated pathways control diverse SMC physiological functions, with pathological alterations in IP(3)R signaling contributing to disease.

Function and expression of ryanodine receptors and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in smooth muscle cells of murine feed arteries and arterioles

We tested the hypothesis that vasomotor control is differentially regulated between feed arteries and downstream arterioles from the cremaster muscle of C57BL/6 mice. In isolated pressurized arteries, confocal Ca(2+) imaging of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) revealed Ca(2+) sparks and Ca(2+) waves. Ryanodine receptor (RyR) antagonists (ryanodine and tetracaine) inhibited both sparks and waves but increased global Ca(2+) and myogenic tone. In arterioles, SMCs exhibited only Ca(2+) waves that were insensitive to ryanodine or tetracaine. Pharmacological interventions indicated that RyRs are functionally coupled to large-conductance, Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BK(Ca)) in SMCs of arteries, whereas BK(Ca) appear functionally coupled to voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in SMCs of arterioles. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) antagonists (xestospongin D or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate) or a phospholipase C inhibitor (U73122) attenuated Ca(2+) waves, global Ca(2+) and myogenic tone in arteries and arterioles but had no effect on arterial sparks. Real-time PCR of isolated SMCs revealed RyR2 as the most abundant isoform transcript; arteries expressed twice the RyR2 but only 65% the RyR3 of arterioles and neither vessel expressed RyR1. Immunofluorescent localisation of RyR protein indicated bright, clustered staining of arterial SMCs in contrast to diffuse staining in arteriolar SMCs. Expression of IP(3)R transcripts and protein immunofluorescence were similar in SMCs of both vessels with IP(3)R1>>IP(3)R2>IP(3)R3. Despite similar expression of IP(3)Rs and dependence of Ca(2+) waves on IP(3)Rs, these data illustrate pronounced regional heterogeneity in function and expression of RyRs between SMCs of the same vascular resistance network. We conclude that vasomotor control is differentially regulated in feed arteries vs. downstream arterioles.

Ryanodine receptor calcium release channels: an evolutionary perspective

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs), along with the related inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs), mediate the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular organelles of eukaryotes. As discussed in other chapters, such increases in intracellular Ca(2+) levels act a fundamental second messenger, regulating a diverse array of cellular processes. For over two decades, it has been reported that vertebrates express multiple RYR genes, whereas non-vertebrate multicellular organisms possess a single homologue within their genomes. Recently, the existence of RyR-like channels in unicellular organisms has also been reported. This chapter exploits recent expansions in available genome data to generate an overview of the expression of RyR-like genes in organisms representing a broad range of viral, archaeal, bacterial and eukaryotic taxa. Analyses of the multidomain structures and phylogenetic relationships of these proteins has lead to a model in which, early during eukaryotic evolution, IP(3)R-like ancestral Ca(2+) release channels were converted to RyR proteins via the addition of promiscuous protein domains, possibly via horizontal gene transfer mechanisms.

Spaceflight regulates ryanodine receptor subtype 1 in portal vein myocytes in the opposite way of hypertension

Gravity has a structural role for living systems. Tissue development, architecture, and organization are modified when the gravity vector is changed. In particular, microgravity induces a redistribution of blood volume and thus pressure in the astronaut body, abolishing an upright blood pressure gradient, inducing orthostatic hypotension. The present study was designed to investigate whether isolated vascular smooth muscle cells are directly sensitive to altered gravitational forces and, second, whether sustained blood pressure changes act on the same molecular target. Exposure to microgravity during 8 days in the International Space Station induced the decrease of ryanodine receptor subtype 1 expression in primary cultured myocytes from rat hepatic portal vein. Identical results were found in portal vein from mice exposed to microgravity during an 8-day shuttle spaceflight. To evaluate the functional consequences of this physiological adaptation, we have compared evoked calcium signals obtained in myocytes from hindlimb unloaded rats, in which the shift of blood pressure mimics the one produced by the microgravity, with those obtained in myocytes from rats injected with antisense oligonucleotide directed against ryanodine receptor subtype 1. In both conditions, calcium signals implicating calcium-induced calcium release were significantly decreased. In contrast, in spontaneous hypertensive rat, an increase in ryanodine receptor subtype 1 expression was observed as well as the calcium-induced calcium release mechanism. Taken together, our results shown that myocytes were directly sensitive to gravity level and that they adapt their calcium signaling pathways to pressure by the regulation of the ryanodine receptor subtype 1 expression.

Ca2+ entry following P2X receptor activation induces IP3 receptor-mediated Ca2+ release in myocytes from small renal arteries

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

P2X receptors mediate sympathetic control and autoregulation of the renal circulation triggering contraction of renal vascular smooth muscle cells (RVSMCs) via an elevation of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+) ](i) ). Although it is well-appreciated that the myocyte Ca(2+) signalling system is composed of microdomains, little is known about the structure of the [Ca(2+) ](i) responses induced by P2X receptor stimulation in vascular myocytes.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES

Using confocal microscopy, perforated-patch electrical recordings, immuno-/organelle-specific staining, flash photolysis and RT-PCR analysis we explored, at the subcellular level, the Ca(2+) signalling system engaged in RVSMCs on stimulation of P2X receptors with the selective agonist αβ-methylene ATP (αβ-meATP).

KEY RESULTS

RT-PCR analysis of single RVSMCs showed the presence of genes encoding inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1(IP(3) R1) and ryanodine receptor type 2 (RyR2). The amplitude of the [Ca(2+) ](i) transients depended on αβ-meATP concentration. Depolarization induced by 10 µmol·L(-1) αβ-meATP triggered an abrupt Ca(2+) release from sub-plasmalemmal ('junctional') sarcoplasmic reticulum enriched with IP(3) Rs but poor in RyRs. Depletion of calcium stores, block of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (VGCCs) or IP(3) Rs suppressed the sub-plasmalemmal [Ca(2+) ](i) upstroke significantly more than block of RyRs. The effect of calcium store depletion or IP(3) R inhibition on the sub-plasmalemmal [Ca(2+) ](i) upstroke was attenuated following block of VGCCs.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Depolarization of RVSMCs following P2X receptor activation induces IP(3) R-mediated Ca(2+) release from sub-plasmalemmal ('junctional') sarcoplasmic reticulum, which is activated mainly by Ca(2+) influx through VGCCs. This mechanism provides convergence of signalling pathways engaged in electromechanical and pharmacomechanical coupling in renal vascular myocytes.

Heterogeneous function of ryanodine receptors, but not IP3 receptors, in hamster cremaster muscle feed arteries and arterioles

The roles played by ryanodine receptors (RyRs) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP₃Rs) in vascular smooth muscle in the microcirculation remain unclear. Therefore, the function of both RyRs and IP₃Rs in Ca(²+) signals and myogenic tone in hamster cremaster muscle feed arteries and downstream arterioles were assessed using confocal imaging and pressure myography. Feed artery vascular smooth muscle displayed Ca(²+) sparks and Ca(²+) waves, which were inhibited by the RyR antagonists ryanodine (10 μM) or tetracaine (100 μM). Despite the inhibition of sparks and waves, ryanodine or tetracaine increased global intracellular Ca(²+) and constricted the arteries. The blockade of IP₃Rs with xestospongin D (5 μM) or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (100 μM) or the inhibition of phospholipase C using U-73122 (10 μM) also attenuated Ca(2+) waves without affecting Ca(²+) sparks. Importantly, the IP₃Rs and phospholipase C antagonists decreased global intracellular Ca(2+) and dilated the arteries. In contrast, cremaster arterioles displayed only Ca(²+) waves: Ca(²+) sparks were not observed, and neither ryanodine (10-50 μM) nor tetracaine (100 μM) affected either Ca(²+) signals or arteriolar tone despite the presence of functional RyRs as assessed by responses to the RyR agonist caffeine (10 mM). As in feed arteries, arteriolar Ca(²+) waves were attenuated by xestospongin D (5 μM), 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (100 μM), and U-73122 (10 μM), accompanied by decreased global intracellular Ca(²+) and vasodilation. These findings highlight the contrasting roles played by RyRs and IP₃Rs in Ca(²+) signals and myogenic tone in feed arteries and demonstrate important differences in the function of RyRs between feed arteries and downstream arterioles.

Intravascular pressure augments cerebral arterial constriction by inducing voltage-insensitive Ca2+ waves

This study examined whether elevated intravascular pressure stimulates asynchronous Ca(2+) waves in cerebral arterial smooth muscle cells and if their generation contributes to myogenic tone development. The endothelium was removed from rat cerebral arteries, which were then mounted in an arteriograph, pressurized (20-100 mmHg) and examined under a variety of experimental conditions. Diameter and membrane potential (V(M)) were monitored using conventional techniques; Ca(2+) wave generation and myosin light chain (MLC(20))/MYPT1 (myosin phosphatase targeting subunit) phosphorylation were assessed by confocal microscopy and Western blot analysis, respectively. Elevating intravascular pressure increased the proportion of smooth muscle cells firing asynchronous Ca(2+) waves as well as event frequency. Ca(2+) wave augmentation occurred primarily at lower intravascular pressures (<60 mmHg) and ryanodine, a plant alkaloid that depletes the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of Ca(2+), eliminated these events. Ca(2+) wave generation was voltage insensitive as Ca(2+) channel blockade and perturbations in extracellular [K(+)] had little effect on measured parameters. Ryanodine-induced inhibition of Ca(2+) waves attenuated myogenic tone and MLC(20) phosphorylation without altering arterial V(M). Thapsigargin, an SR Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor also attenuated Ca(2+) waves, pressure-induced constriction and MLC(20) phosphorylation. The SR-driven component of the myogenic response was proportionally greater at lower intravascular pressures and subsequent MYPT1 phosphorylation measures revealed that SR Ca(2+) waves facilitated pressure-induced MLC(20) phosphorylation through mechanisms that include myosin light chain phosphatase inhibition. Cumulatively, our findings show that mechanical stimuli augment Ca(2+) wave generation in arterial smooth muscle and that these transient events facilitate tone development particularly at lower intravascular pressures by providing a proportion of the Ca(2+) required to directly control MLC(20) phosphorylation.

Role of ROS signaling in differential hypoxic Ca2+ and contractile responses in pulmonary and systemic vascular smooth muscle cells

Hypoxia causes a large increase in [Ca2+]i and attendant contraction in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), but not in systemic artery SMCs. The different responses meet the respective functional needs in these two distinct vascular myocytes; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well known. We and other investigators have provided extensive evidence to reveal that voltage-dependent K+ (KV) channels, canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels, ryanodine receptor Ca2+ release channels (RyRs), cyclic adenosine diphosphate-ribose, FK506 binding protein 12.6, protein kinase C, NADPH oxidase and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the essential effectors and signaling intermediates in the hypoxic increase in [Ca2+]i in PASMCs and HPV, but they may not primarily underlie the diverse cellular responses in pulmonary and systemic vascular myocytes. Hypoxia significantly increases mitochondrial ROS generation in PASMCs, which can induce intracellular Ca2+ release by opening RyRs, and may also cause extracellular Ca2+ influx by inhibiting KV channels and activating TRPC channels, leading to a large increase in [Ca2+]i in PASMCs and HPV. In contrast, hypoxia has no or a minor effect on mitochondrial ROS generation in systemic SMCs, thereby causing no change or a negligible increase in [Ca2+]i and contraction. Further preliminary work indicates that Rieske iron-sulfur protein in the mitochondrial complex III may perhaps serve as a key initial molecular determinant for the hypoxic increase in [Ca2+]i in PASMCs and HPV, suggesting its potential important role in different cellular changes to respond to hypoxic stimulation in pulmonary and systemic artery myocytes. All these findings have greatly improved our understanding of the molecular processes for the differential hypoxic Ca2+ and contractile responses in vascular SMCs from distinct pulmonary and systemic circulation systems.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum function in smooth muscle

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of smooth muscles presents many intriguing facets and questions concerning its roles, especially as these change with development, disease, and modulation of physiological activity. The SR's function was originally perceived to be synthetic and then that of a Ca store for the contractile proteins, acting as a Ca amplification mechanism as it does in striated muscles. Gradually, as investigators have struggled to find a convincing role for Ca-induced Ca release in many smooth muscles, a role in controlling excitability has emerged. This is the Ca spark/spontaneous transient outward current coupling mechanism which reduces excitability and limits contraction. Release of SR Ca occurs in response to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, Ca, and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and depletion of SR Ca can initiate Ca entry, the mechanism of which is being investigated but seems to involve Stim and Orai as found in nonexcitable cells. The contribution of the elemental Ca signals from the SR, sparks and puffs, to global Ca signals, i.e., Ca waves and oscillations, is becoming clearer but is far from established. The dynamics of SR Ca release and uptake mechanisms are reviewed along with the control of luminal Ca. We review the growing list of the SR's functions that still includes Ca storage, contraction, and relaxation but has been expanded to encompass Ca homeostasis, generating local and global Ca signals, and contributing to cellular microdomains and signaling in other organelles, including mitochondria, lysosomes, and the nucleus. For an integrated approach, a review of aspects of the SR in health and disease and during development and aging are also included. While the sheer versatility of smooth muscle makes it foolish to have a "one model fits all" approach to this subject, we have tried to synthesize conclusions wherever possible.

Role of ryanodine receptor subtypes in initiation and formation of calcium sparks in arterial smooth muscle: comparison with striated muscle

Calcium sparks represent local, rapid, and transient calcium release events from a cluster of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In arterial smooth muscle cells (SMCs), calcium sparks activate calcium-dependent potassium channels causing decrease in the global intracellular [Ca2+] and oppose vasoconstriction. This is in contrast to cardiac and skeletal muscle, where spatial and temporal summation of calcium sparks leads to global increases in intracellular [Ca2+] and myocyte contraction. We summarize the present data on local RyR calcium signaling in arterial SMCs in comparison to striated muscle and muscle-specific differences in coupling between L-type calcium channels and RyRs. Accordingly, arterial SMC Ca(v)1.2 L-type channels regulate intracellular calcium stores content, which in turn modulates calcium efflux though RyRs. Downregulation of RyR2 up to a certain degree is compensated by increased SR calcium content to normalize calcium sparks. This indirect coupling between Ca(v)1.2 and RyR in arterial SMCs is opposite to striated muscle, where triggering of calcium sparks is controlled by rapid and direct cross-talk between Ca(v)1.1/Ca(v)1.2 L-type channels and RyRs. We discuss the role of RyR isoforms in initiation and formation of calcium sparks in SMCs and their possible molecular binding partners and regulators, which differ compared to striated muscle.

Doxorubicin-induced vasomotion and [Ca(2+)](i) elevation in vascular smooth muscle cells from C57BL/6 mice

AIM

To explore the action of doxorubicin on vascular smooth muscle cells.

METHODS

Isometric tension of denuded or intact thoracic aortic vessels was recorded and [Ca(2+)](i) in isolated aortic smooth muscle cells was measured by using Fluo-3.

RESULTS

Doxorubicin induced phasic and tonic contractions in denuded vessels and increased levels of [Ca(2+)](i) in single muscle cells. Treatment with 10 micromol/L ryanodine had no effect on basal tension, but it did abolish doxorubicin-induced phasic contraction. Treatment with 10 mmol/L caffeine induced a transient phasic contraction only, and the effect was not significantly altered by ryanodine, the omission of extracellular Ca(2+) or both. Phenylephrine induced rhythmic contraction (RC) in intact vessels. Treatment with 100 micromol/L doxorubicin enhanced RC amplitude, but 1 mmol/L doxorubicin abolished RC, with an increase in maximal tension. Caffeine at 100 micromol/L increased the frequency of the RC only. In the presence of 100 micromol/L caffeine, however, 100 micromol/L doxorubicin abolished the RC and decreased its maximal tension. Treatment with 10 micromol/L ryanodine abolished the RC, with an increase in the maximal tension. In Ca(2+)-free solution, doxorubicin induced a transient [Ca(2+)](i) increase that could be abolished by ryanodine pretreatment in single muscle cells. The doxorubicin-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i) was suppressed by nifedipine and potentiated by ryanodine and charybdotoxin.

CONCLUSION

Doxorubicin not only releases Ca(2+) from the sarcoplasmic reticulum but also promotes the entry of extracellular Ca(2+) into vascular smooth muscle cells.

High K+-induced contraction requires depolarization-induced Ca2+ release from internal stores in rat gut smooth muscle

AIM

Depolarization-induced contraction of smooth muscle is thought to be mediated by Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated L-type Ca2+channels. We describe a novel contraction mechanism that is independent of Ca2+ entry.

METHODS

Pharmacological experiments were carried out on isolated rat gut longitudinal smooth muscle preparations, measuring isometric contraction strength upon high K+-induced depolarization.

RESULTS

Treatment with verapamil, which presumably leads to a conformational change in the channel, completely abolished K+-induced contraction, while residual contraction still occurred when Ca2+ entry was blocked with Cd2+. These results were further confirmed by measuring intracellular Ca2+ transients using Fura-2. Co-application of Cd2+ and the ryanodine receptor blocker DHBP further reduced contraction, albeit incompletely. Additional blockage of either phospholipase C (U 73122) or inositol 1,4,5-trisphophate (IP3)receptors (2-APB) abolished most contractions, while sole application of these blockers and Cd2+ (without parallel ryanodine receptor manipulation) also resulted in incomplete contraction block.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that there are parallel mechanisms of depolarization-induced smooth muscle contraction via (a) Ca2+ entry and (b) Ca2+ entry-independent, depolarization-induced Ca2+-release through ryanodine receptors and IP3, with the latter being dependent on phospholipase C activation.

Membrane depolarization causes a direct activation of G protein-coupled receptors leading to local Ca2+ release in smooth muscle

Membrane depolarization activates voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels (VDCCs) inducing Ca(2+) release via ryanodine receptors (RyRs), which is obligatory for skeletal and cardiac muscle contraction and other physiological responses. However, depolarization-induced Ca(2+) release and its functional importance as well as underlying signaling mechanisms in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are largely unknown. Here we report that membrane depolarization can induce RyR-mediated local Ca(2+) release, leading to a significant increase in the activity of Ca(2+) sparks and contraction in airway SMCs. The increased Ca(2+) sparks are independent of VDCCs and the associated extracellular Ca(2+) influx. This format of local Ca(2+) release results from a direct activation of G protein-coupled, M(3) muscarinic receptors in the absence of exogenous agonists, which causes activation of Gq proteins and phospholipase C, and generation of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP(3)), inducing initial Ca(2+) release through IP(3) receptors and then further Ca(2+) release via RyR2 due to a local Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release process. These findings demonstrate an important mechanism for Ca(2+) signaling and attendant physiological function in SMCs.

The decrease of expression of ryanodine receptor sub-type 2 is reversed by gentamycin sulphate in vascular myocytes from mdx mice

The mdx mouse, a model of the human Duchenne muscular dystrophy, displays impaired contractile function in skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscles. We explored the possibility that ryanodine receptor (RYR) expression could be altered in vascular muscle. The three RYR sub-types were expressed in portal vein myocytes. As observed through mRNA and protein levels, RYR2 expression was strongly decreased in mdx myocytes, whereas RYR3 and RYR1 expression were unaltered. The use of antisense oligonucleotide directed against RYR sub-types indicated that caffeine-induced Ca²⁺ response and Ca²⁺ spark frequency depended on RYR2 and RYR1. In mdx mice, caffeine-induced Ca²⁺ responses were decreased in both amplitude and maximal rate of rise, and the frequency of Ca²⁺ sparks was also strongly decreased. The gentamycin treatment was able to increase both the expression of RYR2 and the caffeine-induced Ca²⁺ response to the same level as that observed in wild-type mice. Taken together, these results confirm that both RYR1 and RYR2 are required for vascular Ca²⁺ signalling and indicate that inhibition of RYR2 expression may account for the decreased Ca²⁺ release from the SR in mdx vascular myocytes. Finally, we suggest that gentamycin can restore the Ca²⁺ signalling in smooth muscle from mdx mice by increasing RYR2 and dystrophin expression. These results may help explain the reduced efficacy of contraction in vascular myocytes of mdx mice and Duchenne muscular dystrophy–afflicted patients. Gentamycin treatment could be a good therapeutic tool to restore the vascular function.

Protein kinase C-epsilon regulates local calcium signaling in airway smooth muscle cells

Protein kinase C (PKC) is known to regulate ryanodine receptor (RyR)-mediated local Ca(2+) signaling (Ca(2+) spark) in airway and vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), but its specific molecular mechanisms and functions still remain elusive. In this study, we reveal that, in airway SMCs, specific PKCepsilon peptide inhibitor and gene deletion significantly increased the frequency of Ca(2+) sparks, and decreased the amplitude of Ca(2+) sparks in the presence of xestospogin-C to eliminate functional inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptors. PKCepsilon activation with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate significantly decreased Ca(2+) spark frequency and increased Ca(2+) spark amplitude. The effect of PKCepsilon inhibition or activation on Ca(2+) sparks was completely lost in PKCepsilon(-/-) cells. PKCepsilon inhibition or PKCepsilon activation was unable to affect Ca(2+) sparks in RyR1(-/-) and RyR1(+/-) cells. Modification of RyR2 activity by FK506-binding protein 12.6 homozygous or RyR2 heterozygous gene deletion did not prevent the effect of PKCepsilon inhibition or activation. RyR3 homogenous gene deletion did not block the effect of PKCepsilon inhibition and activation, either. PKCepsilon inhibition promotes agonist-induced airway muscle contraction, whereas PKCepsilon activation produces an opposite effect. Taken together, these results indicate that PKCepsilon regulates Ca(2+) sparks by specifically interacting with RyR1, which plays an important role in the control of contractile responses in airway SMCs.

Effect of low level laser therapy on bronchial hyper-responsiveness

The objective of this study was to investigate whether low level laser therapy (LLLT) could reduce bronchial hyper-responsiveness (BHR) induced by tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) modulating the metabolism of inositol phosphate (IP) in bronchial smooth muscle cells (BSMCs). The study was on 28 Wistar rats, randomly divided into four groups. Irradiation (1.3 J/cm(2)) was administered 5 min and 4 h after bronchial smooth muscle (BSM) had been suspended in TNF-alpha baths, and the contractile response-induced calcium ion (Ca(2+)) sensitization was measured. The BSMCs were isolated, and the IP accumulation was measured before and after TNF-alpha immersion in the groups that had been irradiated or not irradiated. BSM segments significantly increased contraction 24 h after TNF-alpha immersion when exposed to carbachol (CCh) as Ca(2+), but it was significantly reduced by 64% and 30%, respectively, after laser treatment. The increase in IP accumulation induced by CCh after TNF-alpha immersion was reduced in the BSMCs by LLLT. The dose of 2.6 J/cm(2) reduced BHR and IP accumulation in the rats' inflammatory BSMCs.

Genetic evidence for functional role of ryanodine receptor 1 in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Ryanodine receptor 1 (RyR1) is well-known to be expressed in systemic and pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs); however, its functional roles remain largely unknown. In the present study, we attempted to determine the potential importance of RyR1 in membrane depolarization-, neurotransmitter-, and hypoxia-induced Ca2+ release and contraction in pulmonary artery SMCs (PASMCs) using RyR1 homozygous and heterozygous gene deletion (RyR1-/- and RyR1+/-) mice. Our results indicate that spontaneous local Ca2+ release and caffeine-induced global Ca2+ release are significantly reduced in embryonic RyR1-/- and adult RyR+/- cells. An increase in [Ca2+]i following membrane depolarization with high K+ is markedly attenuated in RyR1-/- and RyR1+/- PASMCs in normal Ca2+ or Ca2+-free extracellular solution. Similarly, muscle contraction evoked by membrane depolarization is reduced in RyR1+/- pulmonary arteries in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+. Neurotransmitter receptor agonists and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate elicit a much smaller increase in [Ca2+]i in both RyR1-/- and RyR1+/- cells. We have also found that neurotransmitter-evoked muscle contraction is significantly inhibited in RyR1+/- pulmonary arteries. Hypoxia-induced increase in [Ca2+]i and contraction are largely blocked in RyR1-/- and/or RyR1+/- PASMCs. Collectively, our findings provide genetic evidence for the functional importance of RyR1 in spontaneous local Ca2+ release, and membrane depolarization-, neurotransmitter-, as well as hypoxia-induced global Ca2+ release and attendant contraction in PASMCs.

A putative role of ribonuclear inclusions and MBNL1 in the impairment of gallbladder smooth muscle contractility with cholelithiasis in myotonic dystrophy type 1

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an autosomal dominant multisystemic disorder caused by expansion of unstable trinucleotide (CTG) repeats at 3' untranslated region of the DMPK gene on chromosome 19q13.3. Mutant transcripts are retained in muscle nuclei as ribonuclear inclusions and interact with RNA-binding proteins, such as muscleblind-like protein 1 (MBNL1), leading to a reduction in their activity. The reduced MBNL1 activity has been associated to skeletal and cardiac muscle dysfunction. However, other organs and systems may be involved. It has been reported that 25-50% of DM1 patients have abdominal symptoms due to cholelithiasis or gallstones. Since impaired gallbladder motility plays an important role in gallstones formation, we have analyzed by FISH combined with MBNL1-immunofluorescence, the gallbladder obtained from a woman affected by DM1 who required a cholecystectomy at the age of 30. Gallbladders obtained from two no-DM1 subjects have been used as controls. Ribonuclear inclusions and MBNL1 foci accumulate and colocalize in nuclei of DM1 gallbladder smooth muscle cells. On the contrary, no ribonuclear inclusions are detectable in cell nuclei of control gallbladders and MBNL1 is uniformly distributed in smooth muscle cell nuclei. These results suggest that nuclear accumulation of MBNL1 and ribonuclear inclusions may have a direct adverse effect on gallbladder smooth muscle contractility and thus contribute to gallstones formation in DM1 patients.

Ca2+ handling is altered when arterial myocytes progress from a contractile to a proliferative phenotype in culture

Phenotypic modulation of vascular myocytes is important for vascular development and adaptation. A characteristic feature of this process is alteration in intracellular Ca(2+) handling, which is not completely understood. We studied mechanisms involved in functional changes of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3))- and ryanodine (Ry)-sensitive Ca(2+) stores, store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE), and receptor-operated Ca(2+) entry (ROCE) associated with arterial myocyte modulation from a contractile to a proliferative phenotype in culture. Proliferating, cultured myocytes from rat mesenteric artery have elevated resting cytosolic Ca(2+) levels and increased IP(3)-sensitive Ca(2+) store content. ATP- and cyclopiazonic acid [CPA; a sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor]-induced Ca(2+) transients in Ca(2+)-free medium are significantly larger in proliferating arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) than in freshly dissociated myocytes, whereas caffeine (Caf)-induced Ca(2+) release is much smaller. Moreover, the Caf/Ry-sensitive store gradually loses sensitivity to Caf activation during cell culture. These changes can be explained by increased expression of all three IP(3) receptors and a switch from Ry receptor type II to type III expression during proliferation. SOCE, activated by depletion of the IP(3)/CPA-sensitive store, is greatly increased in proliferating ASMCs. Augmented SOCE and ROCE (activated by the diacylglycerol analog 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol) in proliferating myocytes can be attributed to upregulated expression of, respectively, transient receptor potential proteins TRPC1/4/5 and TRPC3/6. Moreover, stromal interacting molecule 1 (STIM1) and Orai proteins are upregulated in proliferating cells. Increased expression of IP(3) receptors, SERCA2b, TRPCs, Orai(s), and STIM1 in proliferating ASMCs suggests that these proteins play a critical role in an altered Ca(2+) handling that occurs during vascular growth and remodeling.