Arachidonic acid regulates surface expression of epithelial sodium channels

Maternal Fatty Acid Metabolism in Pregnancy and Its Consequences in the Feto-Placental Development

During pregnancy, maternal plasma fatty acids are critically required for cell growth and development, cell signaling, and the development of critical structural and functional aspects of the feto-placental unit. In addition, the fatty acids modulate the early stages of placental development by regulating angiogenesis in the first-trimester human placenta. Preferential transport of maternal plasma long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids during the third trimester is critical for optimal fetal brain development. Maternal status such as obesity, diabetes, and dietary intakes may affect the functional changes in lipid metabolic processes in maternal-fetal lipid transport and metabolism. Fatty acids traverse the placental membranes via several plasma membrane fatty acid transport/binding proteins (FAT, FATP, p-FABPpm, and FFARs) and cytoplasmic fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs). This review discusses the maternal metabolism of fatty acids and their effects on early placentation, placental fatty acid transport and metabolism, and their roles in feto-placental growth and development. The review also highlights how maternal fat metabolism modulates lipid processing, including transportation, esterification, and oxidation of fatty acids.

Paraoxonase 3 functions as a chaperone to decrease functional expression of the epithelial sodium channel

The paraoxonase (PON) family comprises three highly conserved members: PON1, PON2, and PON3. They are orthologs of Caenorhabditis elegans MEC-6, an endoplasmic reticulum-resident chaperone that has a critical role in proper assembly and surface expression of the touch-sensing degenerin channel in nematodes. We have shown recently that MEC-6 and PON2 negatively regulate functional expression of the epithelial Na⁺ channel (ENaC), suggesting that the chaperone function is conserved within this family. We hypothesized that other PON family members also modulate ion channel expression. Pon3 is specifically expressed in the aldosterone-sensitive distal tubules in the mouse kidney. We found here that knocking down endogenous Pon3 in mouse cortical collecting duct cells enhanced Na⁺ transport, which was associated with increased γENaC abundance. We further examined Pon3 regulation of ENaC in two heterologous expression systems, Fisher rat thyroid cells and Xenopus oocytes. Pon3 coimmunoprecipitated with each of the three ENaC subunits in Fisher rat thyroid cells. As a result of this interaction, the whole-cell and surface abundance of ENaC α and γ subunits was reduced by Pon3. When expressed in oocytes, Pon3 inhibited ENaC-mediated amiloride-sensitive Na⁺ currents, in part by reducing the surface expression of ENaC. In contrast, Pon3 did not alter the response of ENaC to chymotrypsin-mediated proteolytic activation or [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl]methanethiosulfonate-induced activation of αβ_S518Cγ, suggesting that Pon3 does not affect channel open probability. Together, our results suggest that PON3 regulates ENaC expression by inhibiting its biogenesis and/or trafficking.

Thumb domains of the three epithelial Na+ channel subunits have distinct functions

The epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) possesses a large extracellular domain formed by a β-strand core enclosed by three peripheral α-helical subdomains, which have been dubbed thumb, finger, and knuckle. Here we asked whether the ENaC thumb domains play specific roles in channel function. To this end, we examined the characteristics of channels lacking a thumb domain in an individual ENaC subunit (α, β, or γ). Removing the γ subunit thumb domain had no effect on Na+ currents when expressed in Xenopus oocytes, but moderately reduced channel surface expression. In contrast, ENaCs lacking the α or β subunit thumb domain exhibited significantly reduced Na+ currents along with a large reduction in channel surface expression. Moreover, channels lacking an α or γ thumb domain exhibited a diminished Na+ self-inhibition response, whereas this response was retained in channels lacking a β thumb domain. In turn, deletion of the α thumb domain had no effect on the degradation rate of the immature α subunit as assessed by cycloheximide chase analysis. However, accelerated degradation of the immature β subunit and mature γ subunit was observed when the β or γ thumb domain was deleted, respectively. Our results suggest that the thumb domains in each ENaC subunit are required for optimal surface expression in oocytes and that the α and γ thumb domains both have important roles in the channel's inhibitory response to external Na+ Our findings support the notion that the extracellular helical domains serve as functional modules that regulate ENaC biogenesis and activity.

Conserved cysteines in the finger domain of the epithelial Na+ channel α and γ subunits are proximal to the dynamic finger-thumb domain interface

The epithelial Na⁺ channel (ENaC) is a member of the ENaC/degenerin family of ion channels. In the structure of a related family member, the "thumb" domain's base interacts with the pore, and its tip interacts with the divergent "finger" domain. Between the base and tip, the thumb domain is characterized by a conserved five-rung disulfide ladder holding together two anti-parallel α helices. The ENaC α and γ subunits' finger domains harbor autoinhibitory tracts that can be proteolytically liberated to activate the channel and also host an ENaC-specific pair of cysteines. Using a crosslinking approach, we show that one of the finger domain cysteines in the α subunit (αCys-263) and both of the finger domain cysteines in the γ subunit (γCys-213 and γCys-220) lie near the dynamic finger-thumb domain interface. Our data suggest that the αCys-256/αCys-263 pair is not disulfide-bonded. In contrast, we found that the γCys-213/γCys-220 pair is disulfide-bonded. Our data also suggest that the γ subunit lacks the terminal rung in the thumb domain disulfide ladder, suggesting asymmetry between the subunits. We also observed functional asymmetry between the α and γ subunit finger-thumb domain interfaces; crosslinks bridging the α subunit finger-thumb interface only inhibited ENaC currents, whereas crosslinks bridging the γ subunit finger-thumb interface activated or inhibited currents dependent on the length of the crosslinker. Our data suggest that reactive cysteines lie at the dynamic finger-thumb interfaces of the α and γ subunits and may play a yet undefined role in channel regulation.

Regulation of the epithelial Na+ channel by paraoxonase-2

Paraoxonase-2 (PON-2) is a membrane-bound lactonase with unique anti-oxidative and anti-atherosclerotic properties. PON-2 shares key structural elements with MEC-6, an endoplasmic reticulum-resident molecular chaperone in Caenorhabditis elegans MEC-6 modulates the expression of a mechanotransductive ion channel comprising MEC-4 and MEC-10 in touch-receptor neurons. Because pon-2 mRNA resides in multiple rat nephron segments, including the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron where the epithelial Na⁺ channel (ENaC) is expressed, we hypothesized that PON-2 would similarly regulate ENaC expression. We observed PON-2 expression in aquaporin 2-positive principal cells of the distal nephron of adult human kidney. PON-2 also co-immunoprecipitated with ENaC when co-expressed in HEK293 cells. When PON-2 was co-expressed with ENaC in Xenopus oocytes, ENaC activity was reduced, reflecting a reduction in ENaC surface expression. MEC-6 also reduced ENaC activity when co-expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The PON-2 inhibitory effect was ENaC-specific, as PON-2 had no effect on functional expression of the renal outer medullary potassium channel. PON-2 did not alter the response of ENaC to extracellular Na⁺, mechanical shear stress, or α-chymotrypsin-mediated proteolysis, suggesting that PON-2 did not alter the regulation of ENaC by these factors. Together, our data suggest that PON-2 regulates ENaC activity by modulating its intracellular trafficking and surface expression.

Expression and Analysis of Flow-regulated Ion Channels in Xenopus Oocytes

Mechanically-gated ion channels play key roles in mechanotransduction, a process that translates physical forces into biological signals. Epithelial and endothelial cells are exposed to laminar shear stress (LSS), a tangential force exerted by flowing fluids against the wall of vessels and epithelia. The protocol outlined herein has been used to examine the response of ion channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes to LSS (Hoger et al., 2002; Carattino et al., 2004; Shi et al., 2006). The Xenopus oocyte is a reliable system that allows for the expression and chemical modification of ion channels and regulatory proteins (George et al., 1989; Palmer et al., 1990; Sheng et al., 2001; Carattino et al., 2003). Therefore, this technique is suitable for studying the molecular mechanisms that allow flow-activated channels to respond to LSS.

Human epithelial Na+ channel missense variants identified in the GenSalt study alter channel activity

Mutations in genes encoding subunits of the epithelial Na⁺ channel (ENaC) can cause early onset familial hypertension, demonstrating the importance of this channel in modulating blood pressure. It remains unclear whether other genetic variants resulting in subtler alterations of channel function result in hypertension or altered sensitivity of blood pressure to dietary salt. This study sought to identify functional human ENaC variants to examine how these variants alter channel activity and to explore whether these variants are associated with altered sensitivity of blood pressure to dietary salt. Six-hundred participants of the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Salt Sensitivity (GenSalt) study with salt-sensitive or salt-resistant blood pressure underwent sequencing of the genes encoding ENaC subunits. Functional effects of identified variants were examined in a Xenopus oocyte expression system. Variants that increased channel activity included three in the gene encoding the α-subunit (αS115N, αR476W, and αV481M), one in the β-subunit (βS635N), and one in the γ-subunit (γL438Q). One α-subunit variant (αA334T) and one γ-subunit variant (βD31N) decreased channel activity. Several α-subunit extracellular domain variants altered channel inhibition by extracellular Na⁺ (Na⁺ self-inhibition). One variant (αA334T) decreased and one (αV481M) increased cell surface expression. Association between these variants and salt sensitivity did not reach statistical significance. This study identifies novel functional human ENaC variants and demonstrates that some variants alter channel cell surface expression and/or Na⁺ self-inhibition.

CFTR channel in oocytes from Xenopus laevis and its regulation by xShroom1 protein

Shroom is a family of related proteins linked to the actin cytoskeleton. xShroom1 is constitutively expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and it is required for the expression of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). As there is a close relationship between ENaC and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), we examined the action of xShroom1 on CFTR expression and activity. Biotinylation was used to measure CFTR surface expression, and currents were registered with voltage clamp when stimulated with forskolin and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine. Oocytes were coinjected with CFTR complementary RNAs (cRNAs) and xShroom1 sense or antisense oligonucleotides. We observed an increment in CFTR currents and CFTR surface expression in oocytes coinjected with CFTR and xShroom1 antisense oligonucleotides. MG-132, a proteasome inhibitor, did not prevent the increment in currents when xShroom1 was suppressed by antisense oligonucleotides. In addition, we inhibited the delivery of newly synthesized proteins to the plasma membrane with BFA and we found that the half-life of plasma membrane CFTR was prolonged when coinjected with the xShroom1 antisense oligonucleotides. Chloroquine, an inhibitor of the late endosome/lysosome, did not significantly increase CFTR currents when xShroom1 expression was inhibited. The higher expression of CFTR when xShroom1 is suppressed is in concordance with the functional studies suggesting that the suppression of the xShroom1 protein resulted in an increment in CFTR currents by promoting the increase of the half-life of CFTR in the plasma membrane. The role of xShroom1 in regulating CFTR expression could be relevant in the understanding of the channel malfunction in several diseases.

Functional Roles of Clusters of Hydrophobic and Polar Residues in the Epithelial Na+ Channel Knuckle Domain

The extracellular regions of epithelial Na(+) channel subunits are highly ordered structures composed of domains formed by α helices and β strands. Deletion of the peripheral knuckle domain of the α subunit in the αβγ trimer results in channel activation, reflecting an increase in channel open probability due to a loss of the inhibitory effect of external Na(+) (Na(+) self-inhibition). In contrast, deletion of either the β or γ subunit knuckle domain within the αβγ trimer dramatically reduces epithelial Na(+) channel function and surface expression, and impairs subunit maturation. We systematically mutated individual α subunit knuckle domain residues and assessed functional properties of these mutants. Cysteine substitutions at 14 of 28 residues significantly suppressed Na(+) self-inhibition. The side chains of a cluster of these residues are non-polar and are predicted to be directed toward the palm domain, whereas a group of polar residues are predicted to orient their side chains toward the space between the knuckle and finger domains. Among the mutants causing the greatest suppression of Na(+) self-inhibition were αP521C, αI529C, and αS534C. The introduction of Cys residues at homologous sites within either the β or γ subunit knuckle domain resulted in little or no change in Na(+) self-inhibition. Our results suggest that multiple residues in the α subunit knuckle domain contribute to the mechanism of Na(+) self-inhibition by interacting with palm and finger domain residues via two separate and chemically distinct motifs.

Prostasin interacts with the epithelial Na+ channel and facilitates cleavage of the γ-subunit by a second protease

During maturation, the α- and γ-subunits of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) undergo proteolytic processing by furin. Cleavage of the γ-subunit by furin at the consensus site γRKRR143 and subsequent cleavage by a second protease at a distal site strongly activate the channel. For example, coexpression of prostasin with ENaC increases both channel function and cleavage at the γRKRK186 site. We generated a polyclonal antibody that recognizes the region 144-186 in the γ-subunit (anti-γ43) to determine whether prostasin promotes the release of the intervening tract between the putative furin and γRKRK186 cleavage sites. Anti-γ43 precipitated both full-length (93 kDa) and furin-processed (83 kDa) γ-subunits from extracts obtained from oocytes expressing αβHA-γ-V5 channels, but only the full-length (93 kDa) γ-subunit from oocytes expressing αβHA-γ-V5 channels and either wild-type or a catalytically inactive prostasin. Although both wild-type and catalytically inactive prostasin activated ENaCs in an aprotinin-sensitive manner, only wild-type prostasin bound to aprotinin beads, suggesting that catalytically inactive prostasin facilitates the cleavage of the γ-subunit by an endogenous protease in Xenopus oocytes. As dietary salt restriction increases cleavage of the renal γ-subunit, we assessed release of the 43-mer inhibitory tract on rats fed a low-Na+ diet. We found that a low-Na+ diet increased γ-subunit cleavage detected with the anti-γ antibody and dramatically reduced the fraction precipitated with the anti-γ43 antibody. Our results suggest that the inhibitory tract dissociates from the γ-subunit in kidneys from rats on a low-Na+ diet.

Cysteine palmitoylation of the γ subunit has a dominant role in modulating activity of the epithelial sodium channel

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is composed of three homologous subunits (α, β, and γ) with cytoplasmic N and C termini. Our previous work revealed that two cytoplasmic Cys residues in the β subunit, βCys-43 and βCys-557, are Cys-palmitoylated. ENaCs with mutant βC43A/C557A exhibit normal surface expression but enhanced Na(+) self-inhibition and reduced channel open probability. Although the α subunit is not palmitoylated, we now show that the two cytoplasmic Cys residues in the γ subunit are palmitoylated. ENaCs with mutant γC33A, γC41A, or γC33A/C41A exhibit reduced activity compared with wild type channels but normal surface expression and normal levels of α and γ subunit-activating cleavage. These mutant channels have significantly enhanced Na(+) self-inhibition and reduced open probability compared with wild type ENaCs. Channel activity was enhanced by co-expression with the palmitoyltransferase DHHC2 that also co-immunoprecipitates with ENaCs. Secondary structure prediction of the N terminus of the γ subunit places γCys-33 within an α-helix and γCys-44 on a coil before the first transmembrane domain within a short tract that includes a well conserved His-Gly motif, where mutations have been associated with altered channel gating. Our current and previous results suggest that palmitoylation of the β and γ subunits of ENaCs enhances interactions of their respective cytoplasmic domains with the plasma membrane and stabilizes the open state of the channel. Comparison of activities of channels lacking palmitoylation sites in individual or multiple subunits revealed that γ subunit palmitoylation has a dominant role over β subunit palmitoylation in modulating ENaC gating.

Deletion of α-subunit exon 11 of the epithelial Na+ channel reveals a regulatory module

Epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) subunits (α, β, and γ) found in functional complexes are translated from mature mRNAs that are similarly processed by the inclusion of 13 canonical exons. We examined whether individual exons 3-12, encoding the large extracellular domain, are required for functional channel expression. Human ENaCs with an in-frame deletion of a single α-subunit exon were expressed in Xenopus oocytes, and their functional properties were examined by two-electrode voltage clamp. With the exception of exon 11, deletion of an individual exon eliminated channel activity. Channels lacking α-subunit exon 11 were hyperactive. Oocytes expressing this mutant exhibited fourfold greater amiloride-sensitive whole cell currents than cells expressing wild-type channels. A parallel fivefold increase in channel open probability was observed with channels lacking α-subunit exon 11. These mutant channels also exhibited a lost of Na(+) self-inhibition, whereas we found similar levels of surface expression of mutant and wild-type channels. In contrast, in-frame deletions of exon 11 from either the β- or γ-subunit led to a significant loss of channel activity, in association with a marked decrease in surface expression. Our results suggest that exon 11 within the three human ENaC genes encodes structurally homologous yet functionally diverse domains and that exon 11 in the α-subunit encodes a module that regulates channel gating.

Mechanism of action of novel lung edema therapeutic AP301 by activation of the epithelial sodium channel

AP301 [Cyclo(CGQRETPEGAEAKPWYC)], a cyclic peptide comprising the human tumor necrosis factor lectin-like domain (TIP domain) sequence, is currently being developed as a treatment for lung edema and has been shown to reduce extravascular lung water and improve lung function in mouse, rat, and pig models. The current paradigm for liquid homeostasis in the adult mammalian lung is that passive apical uptake of sodium via the amiloride-sensitive epithelial Na⁺ channel (ENaC) and nonselective cyclic-nucleotide-gated cation channels creates the major driving force for reabsorption of water through the alveolar epithelium in addition to other ion channels such as potassium and chloride channels. AP301 can increase amiloride-sensitive current in A549 cells as well as in freshly isolated type II alveolar epithelial cells from different species. ENaC is expressed endogenously in all of these cell types. Consequently, this study was undertaken to determine whether ENaC is the specific target of AP301. The effect of AP301 in A549 cells as well as in human embryonic kidney cells and Chinese hamster ovary cells heterologously expressing human ENaC subunits (α, β, γ, and δ) was measured in patch clamp experiments. The congener TIP peptide AP318 [Cyclo(4-aminobutanoic acid-GQRETPEGAEAKPWYD)] activated ENaC by increasing single-channel open probability. AP301 increased current in proteolytically activated (cleaved) but not near-silent (uncleaved) ENaC in a reversible manner. αβγ- or δβγ-ENaC coexpression was required for maximal activity. No increase in current was observed after deglycosylation of extracellular domains of ENaC. Thus, our data suggest that the specific interaction of AP301 with both endogenously and heterologously expressed ENaC requires precedent binding to glycosylated extracellular loop(s).

Gain-of-function variant of the human epithelial sodium channel

Epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) mutations are associated with several human disorders, underscoring the importance of these channels in human health. Recent human genome sequencing projects have revealed a large number of ENaC gene variations, several of which have been found in individuals with salt-sensitive hypertension, cystic fibrosis, and other disorders. However, the functional consequences of most variants are unknown. In this study, we used the Xenopus oocyte expression system to examine the functional properties of a human ENaC variant. Oocytes expressing αβγL511Q human ENaCs showed 4.6-fold greater amiloride-sensitive currents than cells expressing wild-type channels. The γL511Q variant did not significantly alter channel surface expression. Single channel recordings revealed that the variant had fourfold higher open probability than wild type. In addition, γL511Q largely eliminated the Na(+) self-inhibition response, which reflects a downregulation of ENaC open probability by extracellular Na(+). Moreover, γL511Q diminished chymotrypsin-induced activation of the mutant channel. We conclude that γL511Q is a gain-of-function human ENaC variant. Our results suggest that γL511Q enhances ENaC activity by increasing channel open probability and dampens channel regulation by extracellular Na(+) and proteases.

TMPRSS4-dependent activation of the epithelial sodium channel requires cleavage of the γ-subunit distal to the furin cleavage site

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is activated by a unique mechanism, whereby inhibitory tracts are released by proteolytic cleavage within the extracellular loops of two of its three homologous subunits. While cleavage by furin within the biosynthetic pathway releases one inhibitory tract from the α-subunit and moderately activates the channel, full activation through release of a second inhibitory tract from the γ-subunit requires cleavage once by furin and then at a distal site by a second protease, such as prostasin, plasmin, or elastase. We now report that coexpression of mouse transmembrane protease serine 4 (TMPRSS4) with mouse ENaC in Xenopus oocytes was associated with a two- to threefold increase in channel activity and production of a unique ∼70-kDa carboxyl-terminal fragment of the γ-subunit, similar to the ∼70-kDa γ-subunit fragment that we previously observed with prostasin-dependent channel activation. TMPRSS4-dependent channel activation and production of the ∼70-kDa fragment were partially blocked by mutation of the prostasin-dependent cleavage site (γRKRK186QQQQ). Complete inhibition of TMPRSS4-dependent activation of ENaC and γ-subunit cleavage was observed when three basic residues between the furin and prostasin cleavage sites were mutated (γK173Q, γK175Q, and γR177Q), in addition to γRKRK186QQQQ. Mutation of the four basic residues associated with the furin cleavage site (γRKRR143QQQQ) also prevented TMPRSS4-dependent channel activation. We conclude that TMPRSS4 primarily activates ENaC by cleaving basic residues within the tract γK173-K186 distal to the furin cleavage site, thereby releasing a previously defined key inhibitory tract encompassing γR158-F168 from the γ-subunit.

Effects of cytochrome P-450 metabolites of arachidonic acid on the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC)

Sodium reabsorption via the epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron plays a central role in the regulation of body fluid volume. Previous studies have indicated that arachidonic acid (AA) and its metabolite 11,12-EET but not other regioisomers of EETs inhibit ENaC activity in the collecting duct. The goal of this study was to investigate the endogenous metabolism of AA in cultured mpkCCD(c14) principal cells and the effects of these metabolites on ENaC activity. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of the mpkCCD(c14) cells indicated that these cells produce prostaglandins, 8,9-EET, 11,12-EET, 14,15-EET, 5-HETE, 12/8-HETE, and 15-HETE, but not 20-HETE. Single-channel patch-clamp experiments revealed that 8,9-EET, 14,15-EET, and 11,12-EET all decrease ENaC activity. Neither 5-, 12-, nor 15-HETE had any effect on ENaC activity. Diclofenac and ibuprofen, inhibitors of cyclooxygenase, decreased transepithelial Na(+) transport in the mpkCCD(c14) cells. Inhibition of cytochrome P-450 (CYP450) with MS-PPOH activated ENaC-mediated sodium transport when cells were pretreated with AA and diclofenac. Coexpression of CYP2C8, but not CYP4A10, with ENaC in Chinese hamster ovary cells significantly decreased ENaC activity in whole-cell experiments, whereas 11,12-EET mimicked this effect. Thus both endogenously formed EETs and their exogenous application decrease ENaC activity. Downregulation of ENaC activity by overexpression of CYP2C8 was PKA dependent and was prevented by myristoylated PKI treatment. Biotinylation experiments and single-channel analysis revealed that long-term treatment with 11,12-EET and overexpression of CYP2C8 decreased the number of channels in the membrane. In contrast, the acute inhibitory effects are mediated by a decrease in the open probability of the ENaC. We conclude that 11,12-EET, 8,9-EET, and 14,15-EET are endogenously formed eicosanoids that modulate ENaC activity in the collecting duct.

Native and recombinant Slc26a3 (downregulated in adenoma, Dra) do not exhibit properties of 2Cl-/1HCO3- exchange

The recent proposal that Dra/Slc26a3 mediates electrogenic 2Cl(-)/1HCO(3)(-) exchange suggests a required revision of classical concepts of electroneutral Cl(-) transport across epithelia such as the intestine. We investigated 1) the effect of endogenous Dra Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) activity on apical membrane potential (V(a)) of the cecal surface epithelium using wild-type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice; and 2) the electrical properties of Cl(-)/(OH(-))HCO(3)(-) exchange by mouse and human orthologs of Dra expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Ex vivo (36)Cl(-) fluxes and microfluorometry revealed that cecal Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange was abolished in the Dra KO without concordant changes in short-circuit current. In microelectrode studies, baseline V(a) of Dra KO surface epithelium was slightly hyperpolarized relative to WT but depolarized to the same extent as WT during luminal Cl(-) substitution. Subsequent studies indicated that Cl(-)-dependent V(a) depolarization requires the anion channel Cftr. Oocyte studies demonstrated that Dra-mediated exchange of intracellular Cl(-) for extracellular HCO(3)(-) is accompanied by slow hyperpolarization and a modest outward current, but that the steady-state current-voltage relationship is unaffected by Cl(-) removal or pharmacological blockade. Further, Dra-dependent (36)Cl(-) efflux was voltage-insensitive in oocytes coexpressing the cation channels ENaC or ROMK. We conclude that 1) endogenous Dra and recombinant human/mouse Dra orthologs do not exhibit electrogenic 2Cl(-)/1HCO(3)(-) exchange; and 2) acute induction of Dra Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange is associated with secondary membrane potential changes representing homeostatic responses. Thus, participation of Dra in coupled NaCl absorption and in uncoupled HCO(3)(-) secretion remains compatible with electroneutrality of these processes, and with the utility of electroneutral transport models for predicting epithelial responses in health and disease.

Cys palmitoylation of the beta subunit modulates gating of the epithelial sodium channel

The epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) is comprised of three homologous subunits (α, β, and γ) that have a similar topology with two transmembrane domains, a large extracellular region, and cytoplasmic N and C termini. Although ENaC activity is regulated by a number of factors, palmitoylation of its cytoplasmic Cys residues has not been previously described. Fatty acid-exchange chemistry was used to determine whether channel subunits were Cys-palmitoylated. We observed that only the β and γ subunits were modified by Cys palmitoylation. Analyses of ENaCs with mutant β subunits revealed that Cys-43 and Cys-557 were palmitoylated. Xenopus oocytes expressing ENaC with a β C43A,C557A mutant had significantly reduced amiloride-sensitive whole cell currents, enhanced Na(+) self-inhibition, and reduced single channel P(o) when compared with wild-type ENaC, while membrane trafficking and levels of surface expression were unchanged. Computer modeling of cytoplasmic domains indicated that β Cys-43 is in proximity to the first transmembrane α helix, whereas β Cys-557 is within an amphipathic α-helix contiguous with the second transmembrane domain. We propose that β subunit palmitoylation modulates channel gating by facilitating interactions between cytoplasmic domains and the plasma membrane.

Defining an inhibitory domain in the gamma subunit of the epithelial sodium channel

Proteases activate the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) by cleaving the large extracellular domains of the α- and γ-subunits and releasing peptides with inhibitory properties. Furin and prostasin activate mouse ENaC by cleaving the γ-subunit at sites flanking a 43 residue inhibitory tract (γE144-K186). To determine whether there is a minimal inhibitory region within this 43 residue tract, we generated serial deletions in the inhibitory tract of the γ-subunit in channels resistant to cleavage by furin and prostasin. We found that partial or complete deletion of a short segment in the γ-subunit, R158-N171, enhanced channel activity. Synthetic peptides overlapping this segment in the γ-subunit further identified a key 11-mer tract, R158-F168 (RFLNLIPLLVF), which inhibited wild-type ENaC expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and endogenous channels in mpkCCD cells and human airway epithelia. Further studies with amino acid-substituted peptides defined residues that are required for inhibition in this key 11-mer tract. The presence of the native γ inhibitory tract in ENaC weakened the intrinsic binding constant of the 11-mer peptide inhibitor, suggesting that the γ inhibitory tract and the 11-mer peptide interact at overlapping sites within the channel.

Conformational changes associated with proton-dependent gating of ASIC1a

Acid-sensing ion channels are proton-gated Na(+) channels expressed predominantly in neurons. How channel structure translates an environmental stimulus into changes in pore permeability remains largely undefined. The pore of ASIC1 is defined by residues in the second transmembrane domain (TM2), although a segment of the outer vestibule is formed by residues of TM1. We used the voltage clamp fluorometry technique to define the role of the region preceding TM2 (pre-TM2) in activation and desensitization of mouse ASIC1a. Oocytes expressing E425C channels labeled with Alexa Fluor 488 C5-maleimide showed a change in the emission of the fluorescent probe in response to extracellular acidification. The time course of the change in fluorescence correlated with activation but not desensitization of E425C channels. The fluorescence emission did not change following extracellular acidification in oocytes carrying an inactivating mutation (W287G/E425C), although these channels were labeled and expressed at the plasma membrane. Our data indicate that pore opening occurs in conjunction with a conformational rearrangement of the pre-TM2. We observed a change in the emission of the fluorescent probe when labeled E425C channels transition from the desensitized to the resting state. The substituted-cysteine-accessibility method was used to determine whether the pre-TM2 has different conformations in the resting and desensitized states. State-dependent changes in accessibility to 2-[(trimethylammonium)ethyl]methanethiosulfonate bromide modification were observed in oocytes expressing K421C, K422C, Y424C, and E425C channels. Our results suggest that the pre-TM2 of ASIC1a undergoes dynamic conformational rearrangements during proton-dependent gating.

Dexamethasone effects on Na(v)1.6 in tooth pulp, dental nerves, and alveolar osteoclasts of adult rats

Dexamethasone causes extensive physiologic reactions including the reduction of inflammation and pain. Here, we asked whether it also affected dental or periodontal cells or dental innervation by altering voltage-gated sodium channel Na(v)1.6 immunoreactivity (IR) or neural synaptophysin. Daily dexamethasone (0.2 mg/kg) given for 1 week to rats caused 12-fold increased intensity of Na(v)1.6-IR in dendritic pulpal cells of normal molars and incisors compared with vehicle treatment. These cells also co-localized monocyte (ED-1) or dendritic cell (CD11b/Ox42) markers, and their location in molars expanded during dexamethasone treatment to include deeper pulp. Furthermore, dexamethasone caused a 10-fold decrease in the number of Na(v)1.6-immunoreactive multinucleate osteoclasts along the alveolar bone of molar root sockets. No changes occurred for neural Na(v)1.6 at axonal nodes of Ranvier, even though IR for calcitonin gene-related peptide was greatly decreased, as expected, and neural synaptophysin-IR was decreased 59% by dexamethasone. At 4 days after tooth injury, pulpal vasodilation and increased Na(v)1.6-immunoreactive pulp cells were similar for all groups. Thus, dexamethasone changes dental pulp cell and alveolar osteoclast Na(v)1.6-IR in normal teeth, but different mechanisms occur after tooth injury when tissue reactions were similar for dexamethasone- and vehicle-treated rats. Steroid-induced alterations of dental pain and inflammation coincide with altered exocytic capability in dental nerve fibers as shown by synaptophysin-IR and with altered pulp cell Na(v)1.6-IR and osteoclast number, but not with any changes in Na(v)1.6-IR for nodes of Ranvier in myelinated dental axons.

Effects of lipids on ENaC activity in cultured mouse cortical collecting duct cells

Direct effects on epithelial Na+ channels (ENaC) activity by lipids, e.g., arachidonic acid (AA), eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA), linoleic acid (LA), stearic acid (SA), hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE), 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET), (PGF2), and (PGE2), in cultured mouse cortical collecting duct (M1) cells were clarified by using single-channel recordings in this study. In a cell-attached recording, a bath application of 10 microM AA significantly reduced the ENaC open probability (NPo), whereas 10 microM ETYA or 5 microM LA only induced a slight inhibition. The inside-out recording as a standard protocol was thereafter performed to examine effects of these lipids on ENaC activity. Within 10 min after the formation of the inside-out configuration, the NPo of ENaC in cultured mouse cortical collecting duct (M1) cells remained relatively constant. Application of ETYA or LA or SA exhibited a similar inhibition on the channel NPo when applied to the extracellular side, suggesting that fatty acids could exert a nonspecific inhibition on ENaC activity. 11,12-EET, a metabolite of AA via the cytochrome P450 epoxygenase pathway, significantly inhibited the ENaC NPo, whereas 20-HETE, a metabolite of AA via the hydroxylase pathway, only caused a small inhibition of the ENaC NPo, to a similar degree as that seen with ETYA and LA. However, both PGE2 and PGF2alpha significantly enhanced the ENaC NPo. These results suggest that fatty acids exert a nonspecific effect on ENaC activity due to the interaction between the channel proximity and the lipid. The opposite effects of 11,12-EET and prostaglandin (PG) implicate different mechanisms in regulation of ENaC activity by activation of epoxygenase and cyclooxygenase.

Plasmin activates epithelial Na+ channels by cleaving the gamma subunit

Proteolytic processing of epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits occurs as channels mature within the biosynthetic pathway. The proteolytic processing events of the alpha and gamma subunits are associated with channel activation. Furin cleaves the alpha subunit ectodomain at two sites, releasing an inhibitory tract and activating the channel. However, furin cleaves the gamma subunit ectodomain only once. A second distal cleavage in the gamma subunit induced by other proteases, such as prostasin and elastase, is required to release a second inhibitory tract and further activate the channel. We found that the serine protease plasmin activates ENaC in association with inducing cleavage of the gamma subunit at gammaLys194, a site distal to the furin site. A gammaK194A mutant prevented both plasmin-dependent activation of ENaC and plasmin-dependent production of a unique 70-kDa carboxyl-terminal gamma subunit cleavage fragment. Plasmin-dependent cleavage and activation of ENaC may have a role in extracellular volume expansion in human disorders associated with proteinuria, as filtered plasminogen may be processed by urokinase, released from renal tubular epithelium, to generate active plasmin.

WNK3 positively regulates epithelial calcium channels TRPV5 and TRPV6 via a kinase-dependent pathway

WNK3, a member of the With No Lysine (K) family of protein serine/threonine kinases, was shown to regulate members of the SLC12A family of cation-chloride cotransporters and the renal outer medullary K+ channel ROMK and Cl(-) channel SLC26A9. To evaluate the effect of WNK3 on TRPV5, a renal epithelial Ca2+ channel that serves as a gatekeeper for active Ca2+ reabsorption, WNK3 and TRPV5 were coexpressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and the function and expression of TRPV5 were subsequently examined. An 82.7 +/- 7.1% increase in TRPV5-mediated Ca2+ uptake was observed when WNK3 was coexpressed. A similar increase in TRPV5-mediated Na+ current was observed with the voltage-clamp technique. WNK3 also enhanced Ca2+ influx and Na+ current mediated by TRPV6, which is the closest homolog of TRPV5 that mediates active intestinal Ca2+ absorption. The kinase domain of WNK3 alone was sufficient to increase TRPV5-mediated Ca2+ transport, and the positive regulatory effect was abolished by the kinase-inactive D294A mutation in WNK3, indicating a kinase-dependent mechanism. The complexly glycosylated TRPV5 that appears at the plasma membrane was increased by WNK3. The exocytosis of TRPV5 was increased by WNK3, and the effect of WNK3 on TRPV5 was abolished by the microtubule inhibitor colchicine. The increased plasma membrane expression of TRPV5 was likely due to the enhanced delivery of mature TRPV5 to the plasma membrane from its intracellular pool via the secretory pathway. These results indicate that WNK3 is a positive regulator of the transcellular Ca2+ transport pathway.

Lipid levels in sperm, eggs, and during fertilization in Xenopus laevis

Critical developmental periods, such as fertilization, involve metabolic activation, membrane fusion events such as sperm-egg or plasma membrane-cortical granule merger, and production and hydrolysis of phospholipids. However, there has been no large-scale quantification of phospholipid changes during fertilization. Using an enzymatic assay, traditional FA analysis by TLC and gas chromatography, along with a new method of phospholipid measurement involving HPLC separation and evaporative light-scattering detection, we report lipid levels in eggs, sperm, and during fertilization in Xenopus laevis. Sperm were found to contain different amounts of phospholipids as compared with eggs. During fertilization, total phosphatidylinositol, lysophosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin, and phosphatidylserine decreased, and ceramide increased, whereas there was no change in phosphatidylcholine, cardiolipin, or phosphatidylethanolamine. FA analysis of phospholipids found numerous changes during fertilization. Because there is an increase in sn-1,2-diacylglycerol at fertilization, the FAs associated with this increase and the source of the increase in this neutral lipid were examined. Finally, activation of phospholipase C, phospholipase D, phospholipase A2, autotoxin, and sphingomyelinase at fertilization is discussed.

Small molecule activator of the human epithelial sodium channel

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), a heterotrimeric complex composed of alpha, beta, and gamma subunits, belongs to the ENaC/degenerin family of ion channels and forms the principal route for apical Na(+) entry in many reabsorbing epithelia. Although high affinity ENaC blockers, including amiloride and derivatives, have been described, potent and specific small molecule ENaC activators have not been reported. Here we describe compound S3969 that fully and reversibly activates human ENaC (hENaC) in an amiloride-sensitive and dose-dependent manner in heterologous cells. Mechanistically, S3969 increases hENaC open probability through interactions requiring the extracellular domain of the beta subunit. hENaC activation by S3969 did not require cleavage by the furin protease, indicating that nonproteolyzed channels can be opened. Function of alphabetaG37Sgamma hENaC, a channel defective in gating that leads to the salt-wasting disease pseudohypoaldosteronism type I, was rescued by S3969. Small molecule activation of hENaC may find application in alleviating human disease, including pseudohypoaldosteronism type I, hypotension, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, when improved Na(+) flux across epithelial membranes is clinically desirable.

Defining an inhibitory domain in the alpha-subunit of the epithelial sodium channel

Epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) are processed by proteases as they transit the biosynthetic pathway. We recently observed that furin-dependent processing of the alpha-subunit of ENaC at two sites within its extracellular domain is required for channel activation due to release of a 26-residue inhibitory domain. While channels with alpha-subunits lacking the furin sites are not cleaved and have very low activity, channels lacking the furin consensus sites as well as the tract between these sites (alphaD206-R231) are active. We analyzed channels with a series of deletions in the tract alphaD206-R231 and lacking the alpha-subunit furin consensus sites in Xenopus laevis oocytes. We found an eight-residue tract that, when deleted, restored channel activity to the level found in oocytes expressing wild-type ENaC. A synthetic peptide, LPHPLQRL, representing the tract alphaL211-L218, inhibited wild-type ENaC expressed in oocytes with an IC(50) of 0.9 microM, and inhibited channels expressed in collecting duct cells and human primary airway epithelial cells with an IC(50)s of between approximately 50 and 100 microM. Analyses of peptides with deletions within this inhibitory tract indicate that eight residues is the minimal backbone length that is required for ENaC inhibition. Analyses of 8-mer peptides with conserved and nonconserved substitutions suggest that L(1), P(2), H(3), P(4), and L(8) are required for inhibitory activity. Our findings suggest that this eight-residue tract is a key conserved inhibitory domain that provides epithelial cells with a reserve of inactive channels that can be activated as required by proteases.

The KCNE1 beta-subunit exerts a transient effect on the KCNQ1 K+ channel

The KCNE1 beta-subunit is a modulatory one-trans-membrane segment accessory protein that alters KCNQ1 K(+) channel current characteristics, though it is not required for channel expression. The KCNE1 and KCNQ1 interaction was investigated by looking for effects of expression time on channel currents in Xenopus laevis oocytes. We found that long-time expression of KCNQ1+KCNE1 (2-14 days) resulted in gradual changes in current characteristics resembling a disappearance of KCNE1 from the oocyte plasma membrane. Towards the end of the expression period the current of oocytes expressing KCNQ1+KCNE1 was indistinguishable from those expressing KCNQ1 alone. No time dependent effect was seen in oocytes expressing KCNQ1 alone or a concatamer of KCNQ1 and KCNE1. Brefeldin A was tested, showing that measured current was independent of exocytosis (decreased capacitance) thus eliminating a continuous displacement-explanation. Based on the functional data, we suggest that the interaction between KNCE1 and KCNQ1 may be reversible and transient in a "Kiss & Go" manner, supporting a physiological role for KCNE1 as a dynamic regulatory molecule.

Epithelial sodium channel exit from the endoplasmic reticulum is regulated by a signal within the carboxyl cytoplasmic domain of the alpha subunit

Epithelial sodium channels (ENaCs) are assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) from alpha, beta, and gamma subunits, each with two transmembrane domains, a large extracellular loop, and cytoplasmic amino and carboxyl termini. ENaC maturation involves transit through the Golgi complex where Asn-linked glycans are processed to complex type and the channel is activated by furin-dependent cleavage of the alpha and gamma subunits. To identify signals in ENaC for ER retention/retrieval or ER exit/release, chimera were prepared with the interleukin alpha subunit (Tac) and each of the three cytoplasmic carboxyl termini of mouse ENaC (Tac-Ct) or with gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase and each of the three cytoplasmic amino termini (Nt-GGT). By monitoring acquisition of endoglycosidase H resistance after metabolic labeling, we found no evidence of ER retention of any chimera when compared with control Tac or GGT, but we did observe enhanced exit of Tac-alphaCt when compared with Tac. ER exit of ENaC was assayed after metabolic labeling by following the appearance of cleaved alpha as cleaved alpha subunit, but not non-cleaved alpha, is endoglycosidase H-resistant. Interestingly ER exit of epitope-tagged and truncated alpha (alphaDelta624-699-V5) with full-length betagamma was similar to wild type alpha (+betagamma), whereas ER exit of ENaC lacking the entire cytoplasmic carboxyl tail of alpha (alphaDelta613-699-V5 +betagamma) was significantly reduced. Subsequent analysis of ER exit for ENaCs with mutations within the intervening sequence (613)HRFRSRYWSPG(623) within the context of the full-length alpha revealed that mutation alphaRSRYW(620) to AAAAA significantly reduced ER exit. These data indicate that ER exit of ENaC is regulated by a signal within the alpha subunit carboxyl cytoplasmic tail.

Small heat shock protein alphaA-crystallin regulates epithelial sodium channel expression

Integral membrane proteins are synthesized on the cytoplasmic face of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). After being translocated or inserted into the ER, they fold and undergo post-translational modifications. Within the ER, proteins are also subjected to quality control checkpoints, during which misfolded proteins may be degraded by proteasomes via a process known as ER-associated degradation. Molecular chaperones, including the small heat shock protein alphaA-crystallin, have recently been shown to play a role in this process. We have now found that alphaA-crystallin is expressed in cultured mouse collecting duct cells, where apical Na(+) transport is mediated by epithelial Na(+) channels (ENaC). ENaC-mediated Na(+) currents in Xenopus oocytes were reduced by co-expression of alphaA-crystallin. This reduction in ENaC activity reflected a decrease in the number of channels expressed at the cell surface. Furthermore, we observed that the rate of ENaC delivery to the cell surface of Xenopus oocytes was significantly reduced by co-expression of alphaA-crystallin, whereas the rate of channel retrieval remained unchanged. We also observed that alphaA-crystallin and ENaC co-immunoprecipitate. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that small heat shock proteins recognize ENaC subunits at ER quality control checkpoints and can target ENaC subunits for ER-associated degradation.

Intracellular trafficking of a polymorphism in the COOH terminus of the alpha-subunit of the human epithelial sodium channel is modulated by casein kinase 1

The A663T polymorphism of the alpha-subunit of the human epithelial sodium channel (hENaC) increases the functional and surface expression of alphabetagamma-hENaC in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and the context of this residue in the COOH terminus of alpha-hENaC is important for this effect. Query of a phosphoprotein database suggested that the alpha-T663 residue of hENaC might be a substrate for phosphorylation by casein kinase 1 (CK1). We tested the hypotheses that phosphorylation of alpha-T663-hENaC by CK1 would regulate the increased functional and surface expression of alpha-T663-hENaC vs. alpha-A663-hENaC in oocytes. General inhibition of CK1 with IC261 decreased the functional and surface expression of alpha-T663-hENaC, but not alpha-A663-hENaC. This decrease in alpha-T663-hENaC functional expression resulted from reduced delivery of alpha-T663-hENaC to the oocyte membrane. IC261 also inhibited the functional expression of alpha-T692-mENaC and a chimeric m(1-678)/h(650-669)alpha-T663, mbetagamma ENaC, but not alpha-A692-mENaC or m(1-678)/h(650-669)alpha-A663, mbetagamma ENaC. These data suggest that additional residues outside of the alpha-hENaC COOH terminus are important for modulation of alpha-T663-hENaC trafficking by CK1. Overexpression of CK1alpha did not alter functional expression of alpha-T663-hENaC. In contrast, modest overexpression of CK1delta enhanced, whereas higher levels of CK1delta overexpression inhibited alpha-T663-hENaC functional expression. CK1 did not phosphorylate the COOH terminus of either alpha-T663-hENaC or alpha-A663-hENaC in vitro. These data suggest that CK1, and perhaps specifically CK1delta, regulates the intracellular trafficking of the alpha-A663T functional polymorphism of hENaC indirectly by altering the rate of alpha-T663-hENaC biosynthesis and/or delivery to the plasma membrane.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids improve host response in chronicPseudomonas aeruginosalung infection in mice

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative bacilli frequently encountered in human pathology. This pathogen is involved in a large number of nosocomial infections and chronic diseases. Herein we investigated the effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection. C57BL/6 mice were fed for 5 wk with specifically designed diets with high contents in either omega-3 (ω-3) or ω-6 PUFA and compared to a control diet. P. aeruginosa included in agarose beads was then instilled intratracheally, and the animals were studied for 7 days. On the 4th day, the mice fed with the ω-3 diet had a higher lean body mass gain and a lower ω-6:ω-3 ratio of fatty acids extracted from the lung tissue compared with the other groups ( P < 0.05). The ω-3 group had the lowest mortality. Distal alveolar fluid clearance (DAFC) as well as the inflammatory response and the cellular recruitment were higher in the ω-3 group on the 4th day. The effect on DAFC was independent of α-epithelial Na+channels (α-ENaC), β-ENaC, and α1-Na-K-ATPase mRNA expressions, which were not altered by the different diets. In conclusion, a diet enriched in ω-3 PUFA can change lung membrane composition and improve survival in chronic pneumonia. This effect on survival is probably multifactorial involving the increased DAFC capacity as well as the optimization of the initial inflammatory response. This work suggests that a better control of the ω-6/ω-3 PUFA balance may represent an interesting target in the prevention and/or control of P. aeruginosa infection in patients.

HCN pacemaker channel activation is controlled by acidic lipids downstream of diacylglycerol kinase and phospholipase A2

Hyperpolarization-activated pacemaker currents (I(H)) contribute to the subthreshold properties of excitable cells and thereby influence behaviors such as synaptic integration and the appearance and frequency of intrinsic rhythmic activity. Accordingly, modulation of I(H) contributes to cellular plasticity. Although I(H) activation is regulated by a plethora of neurotransmitters, including some that act via phospholipase C (PLC), the only second messengers known to alter I(H) voltage dependence are cAMP, internal protons (H+(I)s), and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-phosphate. Here, we show that 4beta-phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (4betaPMA), a stereoselective C-1 diacylglycerol-binding site agonist, enhances voltage-dependent opening of wild-type and cAMP/H+(I)-uncoupled hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-regulated (HCN) channels, but does not alter gating of the plant hyperpolarization-activated channel, KAT1. Pharmacological analysis indicates that 4betaPMA exerts its effects on HCN gating via sequential activation of PKC and diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) coupled with upregulation of MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2), but its action is independent of phosphoinositide kinase 3 (PI3K) and PI4K. Demonstration that both phosphatidic acid and arachidonic acid (AA) directly facilitate HCN gating suggests that these metabolites may serve as the messengers downstream of DGK and PLA2, respectively. 4BetaPMA-mediated suppression of the maximal HCN current likely arises from channel interaction with AA coupled with an enhanced membrane retrieval triggered by the same pathways that modulate channel gating. These results indicate that regulation of excitable cell behavior by neurotransmitter-mediated modulation of I(H) may be exerted via changes in three signaling lipids in addition to the allosteric actions of cAMP and H+(I)s.

Epithelial Na+ channels are fully activated by furin- and prostasin-dependent release of an inhibitory peptide from the gamma-subunit

Epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) are expressed in the apical membrane of high resistance Na(+) transporting epithelia and have a key role in regulating extracellular fluid volume and the volume of airway surface liquids. Maturation and activation of ENaC subunits involves furin-dependent cleavage of the ectodomain at two sites in the alpha subunit and at a single site within the gamma subunit. We now report that the serine protease prostasin further activates ENaC by inducing cleavage of the gamma subunit at a site distal to the furin cleavage site. Dual cleavage of the gamma subunit is predicted to release a 43-amino acid peptide. Channels with a gamma subunit lacking this 43-residue tract have increased activity due to a high open probability. A synthetic peptide corresponding to the fragment cleaved from the gamma subunit is a reversible inhibitor of endogenous ENaCs in mouse cortical-collecting duct cells and in primary cultures of human airway epithelial cells. Our results suggest that multiple proteases cleave ENaC gamma subunits to fully activate the channel.

AMP-activated Kinase Inhibits the Epithelial Na+ Channel through Functional Regulation of the Ubiquitin Ligase Nedd4-2

We recently found that the metabolic sensor AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) inhibits the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) through decreased plasma membrane ENaC expression, an effect requiring the presence of a binding motif in the cytoplasmic tail of the beta-ENaC subunit for the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2. To further examine the role of Nedd4-2 in the regulation of ENaC by AMPK, we studied the effects of AMPK activation on ENaC currents in Xenopus oocytes co-expressing ENaC and wild-type (WT) or mutant forms of Nedd4-2. ENaC inhibition by AMPK was preserved in oocytes expressing WT Nedd4-2 but blocked in oocytes expressing either a dominant-negative (DN) or constitutively active (CA) Nedd4-2 mutant, suggesting that AMPK-dependent modulation of Nedd4-2 function is involved. Similar experiments utilizing WT or mutant forms of the serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase (SGK1), modulators of protein kinase A (PKA), or extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) did not affect ENaC inhibition by AMPK, suggesting that these pathways known to modulate the Nedd4-2-ENaC interaction are not responsible. AMPK-dependent phosphorylation of Nedd4-2 expressed in HEK-293 cells occurred both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a potential mechanism for modulation of Nedd4-2 and thus cellular ENaC activity. Moreover, cellular AMPK activation significantly enhanced the interaction of the beta-ENaC subunit with Nedd4-2, as measured by co-immunoprecipitation assays in HEK-293 cells. In summary, these results suggest a novel mechanism for ENaC regulation in which AMPK promotes ENaC-Nedd4-2 interaction, thereby inhibiting ENaC by increasing Nedd4-2-dependent ENaC retrieval from the plasma membrane. AMPK-dependent ENaC inhibition may limit cellular Na+ loading under conditions of metabolic stress when AMPK becomes activated.

Distinct structural elements in the first membrane-spanning segment of the epithelial sodium channel

Epithelial Na+ channels (ENaCs) comprise three subunits that have been proposed to be arranged in either an alpha2betagamma or a higher ordered configuration. Each subunit has two putative membrane-spanning segments (M1 and M2), intracellular amino and carboxyl termini, and a large extracellular loop. We have used the TOXCAT assay (a reporter assay for transmembrane segment homodimerization) to identify residues within the transmembrane segments of ENaC that may participate in important structural interactions within ENaC, with which we identified a candidate site within alphaM1. We performed site-directed mutagenesis at this site and found that, although the mutants reduced channel activity, ENaC protein expression at the plasma membrane was unaffected. To deduce the role of alphaM1 in the pore structure of ENaC, we performed tryptophan-scanning mutagenesis throughout alphaM1 (residues 110-130). We found that mutations within the amino-terminal part of alphaM1 had effects on activity and selectivity with a periodicity consistent with a helical structure but no effect on channel surface expression. We also observed that mutations within the carboxyl-terminal part of alphaM1 had effects on activity and selectivity but with no apparent periodicity. Additionally, these mutants reduced channel surface expression. Our data support a model in which the amino-terminal half of alphaM1 is alpha-helical and packs against structural element(s) that contribute to the ENaC pore. Furthermore, these data suggest that the carboxyl-terminal half of alphaM1 may be helical or assume a different conformation and may be involved in tertiary interactions essential to proper channel folding or assembly. Together, our data suggest that alphaM1 is divided into two distinct regions.

Effects of hyposmotic stress on exocytosis in isolated turbot, Scophthalmus maximus, hepatocytes

The effect of hyposmotic shock on exocytosis was examined in isolated hepatocytes of turbot, a marine flatfish, using the molecular probe FM1-43. Sudden exposure to a reduced osmolality caused an increase in cell exocytic activity related to the osmotic gradient between intra- and extracellular fluids. Cytoskeletal microtubules could contribute to this hyposmotic-induced exocytosis since colchicine inhibited the process. Protein kinase C, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, phospholipases A2, C and D could constitute key enzymes in the mechanism since their inhibition by specific agents altered the hyposmotic-induced exocytic activity. Moreover, arachidonic acid and derivates from the 5-lipoxygenase pathway as well as calcium could participate in the process. As regulatory volume decrease (RVD) exhibited by turbot hepatocytes following hyposmotic stimulation involves similar features, a potential role of exocytosis in volume regulation is suggested. In particular, exocytosis could serve RVD by contributing to ATP release since this latter process similarly appeared to be phospholipase D-dependent and related to the osmotic gradient. This study provides the first evidence of a volume-sensitive exocytosis that could aim at volume constancy in a marine teleost fish cell type.

The epithelial Na+ channel is inhibited by a peptide derived from proteolytic processing of its alpha subunit

Epithelial sodium channels (ENaCs) mediate Na(+) entry across the apical membrane of high resistance epithelia that line the distal nephron, airway and alveoli, and distal colon. These channels are composed of three homologous subunits, termed alpha, beta, and gamma, which have intracellular amino and carboxyl termini and two membrane-spanning domains connected by large extracellular loops. Maturation of ENaC subunits involves furin-dependent cleavage of the extracellular loops at two sites within the alpha subunit and at a single site within the gamma subunit. The alpha subunits must be cleaved twice, immediately following Arg-205 and Arg-231, in order for channels to be fully active. Channels lacking alpha subunit cleavage are inactive with a very low open probability. In contrast, channels lacking both alpha subunit cleavage and the tract alphaAsp-206-Arg-231 are active when expressed in oocytes, suggesting that alphaAsp-206-Arg-231 functions as an inhibitor that stabilizes the channel in the closed conformation. A synthetic 26-mer peptide (alpha-26), corresponding to alphaAsp-206-Arg-231, reversibly inhibits wild-type mouse ENaCs expressed in Xenopus oocytes, as well as endogenous Na(+) channels expressed in either a mouse collecting duct cell line or primary cultures of human airway epithelial cells. The IC(50) for amiloride block of ENaC was not affected by the presence of alpha-26, indicating that alpha-26 does not bind to or interact with the amiloride binding site. Substitution of Arg residues within alpha-26 with Glu, or substitution of Pro residues with Ala, significantly reduced the efficacy of alpha-26. The peptide inhibits ENaC by reducing channel open probability. Our results suggest that proteolysis of the alpha subunit activates ENaC by disassociating an inhibitory domain (alphaAsp-206-Arg-231) from its effector site within the channel complex.

Clathrin-mediated Endocytosis of the Epithelial Sodium Channel

Here we present evidence that the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), a heteromeric membrane protein whose surface expression is regulated by ubiquitination, is present in clathrin-coated vesicles in epithelial cells that natively express ENaC. The channel subunits are ubiquitinated and co-immunoprecipitate with both epsin and clathrin adaptor proteins, and epsin, as expected, co-immunoprecipitates with clathrin adaptor proteins. The functional significance of these interactions was evaluated in a Xenopus oocyte expression system where co-expression of epsin and ENaC resulted in a down-regulation of ENaC activity; conversely, co-expression of epsin sub-domains acted as dominant-negative effectors and stimulated ENaC activity. These results identify epsin as an accessory protein linking ENaC to the clathrin-based endocytic machinery thereby regulating the activity of this ion channel at the cell surface.

Differential effects of Hsc70 and Hsp70 on the intracellular trafficking and functional expression of epithelial sodium channels

The members of the cytoplasmic 70-kDa heat shock protein family are involved in appropriate folding and trafficking of newly synthesized proteins in the cell. Hsc70, which is expressed constitutively, and Hsp70, the expression of which is stress- and heat shock-induced, are often considered to have similar cellular functions in this regard, but there are suggestions that the intracellular functions of these homologous but not identical proteins may differ. We tested the hypothesis that Hsc70 and Hsp70 would have differential effects on the expression of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). In Xenopus oocytes, overexpression of human Hsc70 decreased the functional (defined as amiloride-sensitive whole-oocyte current) and surface expression of murine ENaC (mENaC) in a concentration-dependent fashion. In contrast, coinjection of a moderate amount of Hsp70 cRNA (10 ng) increased the functional and surface expression of mENaC, whereas a higher amount of coinjected Hsp70 cRNA (30 ng) decreased mENaC functional and surface expression. The increase in mENaC functional expression with coinjection of 10 ng of Hsp70 cRNA was antagonized by the additional coinjection of Hsc70 cRNA in a concentration-dependent fashion. These data are consistent with Hsc70 and Hsp70 having differential and antagonistic effects with regard to the intracellular trafficking of mENaC in oocytes, which may have an impact on our understanding and potential treatment of diseases of aberrant ion channel trafficking.

Differential modulation of a polymorphism in the COOH terminus of the α-subunit of the human epithelial sodium channel by protein kinase Cδ

The A663T polymorphism of the α-subunit of the human epithelial sodium channel (hENaC) increases the functional and surface expression of αβγ-hENaC in Xenopus laevis oocytes. The context of this residue in the COOH terminus of α-hENaC is important for this effect, as a homologous change in murine ENaC (mENaC), A692T, does not alter functional and surface expression of mENaC. Query of a phosphoprotein database suggested that the α-T663 residue might be phosphorylated by PKCδ. General inhibition of PKC with calphostin C decreased the functional and surface expression of αT663-hENaC and not αA663-hENaC, and was without effect on αA692-mENaC, αT692-mENaC, and a chimeric m(1–678)/h(650–669)αT663, mβγ-ENaC. These data suggest that residues outside of the α-hENaC COOH terminus are important for modulation of αT663-hENaC trafficking by PKC. In contrast, expression of PKCδ decreased the functional and surface expression of αT663-hENaC and the functional expression of m(1–678)/h(650–669)αT663, mβγ-ENaC, and was without effect on αA663-hENaC, αA692-mENaC, or αT692-mENaC. PKCδ did not phosphorylate the COOH terminus of either αT663-hENaC or αA663-hENaC in vitro, suggesting that it acts indirectly to regulate hENaC trafficking. αT663-hENaC was retrieved from the oocyte membrane more slowly than αA663-hENaC, and calphostin C increased the rate of αT663-hENaC removal from the oocyte membrane to a rate similar to that of αA663-hENaC. In contrast, PKCδ did not alter the rate of removal of αT663-hENaC from the oocyte membrane, suggesting that PKCδ altered rates of αT663-hENaC biosynthesis and/or delivery to the plasma membrane. These data are consistent with PKC isoform-specific effects on the intracellular trafficking of αT663- vs. αA663-hENaC.

Halothane Directly Modifies Na+ and K+ Channel Activities in Cultured Human Alveolar Epithelial Cells

During inhalational anesthesia, halogenated gases are in direct contact with the alveolar epithelium, in which they may affect transepithelial ion and fluid transport. The effects of halogenated gases in vivo on epithelial Na+ and K+ channels, which participate in alveolar liquid clearance, remain unclear. In the present study, the effects of halothane (1, 2, and 4% atm) on ion-channel function in cultured human alveolar cells were investigated using the patch-clamp technique. After exposure to 4% halothane, amiloride-sensitive whole-cell inward currents increased by 84+/-22%, whereas tetraethylammonium-sensitive outward currents decreased by 63+/-7%. These effects, which occurred within 30 s, remained for 30-min periods of exposure to the gas, were concentration-dependent, and were reversible upon washout. Pretreatment with amiloride prevented 90+/-7% of the increase in inward currents without change in outward currents, consistent with an activation of amiloride-sensitive epithelial sodium channels. Tetraethylammonium obliterated 90+/-9% of the effect of halothane on outward currents, without change in inward currents, indicating inhibition of Ca2+-activated K+ channels. These channels were identified in excised patches to be small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels. These effects of halothane were not modified after the inhibition of cytosolic phospholipase A2 by aristolochic acid. Exposure of the cells to either trypsin or to low Na+ completely prevented the increase in amiloride-sensitive currents induced by halothane, suggesting a release of Na+ channels self-inhibition. Thus, halothane modifies differentially and independently Na+ and K+ permeabilities in human alveolar cells.

Minireview: regulation of epithelial Na+ channel trafficking

The epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) is a pathway for Na(+) transport across epithelia, including the kidney collecting duct, lung, and distal colon. ENaC is critical for Na(+) homeostasis and blood pressure control; defects in ENaC function and regulation are responsible for inherited forms of hypertension and hypotension and may contribute to the pathogenesis of cystic fibrosis and other lung diseases. An emerging theme is that epithelial Na(+) transport is regulated in large part through trafficking mechanisms that control ENaC expression at the cell surface. ENaC trafficking is regulated at multiple steps. Delivery of channels to the cell surface is regulated by aldosterone (and corticosteroids) and vasopressin, which increase ENaC synthesis and exocytosis, respectively. Conversely, endocytosis and degradation is controlled by a sequence located in the C terminus of alpha, beta, and gammaENaC (PPPXYXXL). This sequence functions as an endocytosis motif and as a binding site for Nedd4-2, an E3 ubiquitin protein ligase that targets ENaC for degradation. Mutations that delete or disrupt this motif cause accumulation of channels at the cell surface, resulting in Liddle's syndrome, an inherited form of hypertension. Nedd4-2 is a central convergence point for ENaC regulation by aldosterone and vasopressin; both induce phosphorylation of a common set of three Nedd4-2 residues, which blocks Nedd4-2 binding to ENaC. Thus, aldosterone and vasopressin regulate epithelial Na(+) transport in part by altering ENaC trafficking to and from the cell surface.

Cl- secretion in ATP-treated renal epithelial C7-MDCK cells is mediated by activation of P 2Y1 receptors, phospholipase A2 and protein kinase A

This study examines the mechanism of P 2Y-induced Cl- secretion in monolayers of C7-Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells triggered by basolateral application of ATP and measured as transcellular short current (I(SC)). Both ATP-induced arachidonic acid (AA) synthesis and I(SC) in ATP-treated cells were abolished by the phosholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibitor, AACOCF3. The cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor indomethacin decreased I(SC) and cAMP production in ATP-treated cells with an IC50 of approximately 0.3 microm. ATP led to rapid activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA), as estimated by phosphorylation of a vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein. PKA activity and I(SC) evoked by ATP, as well as by prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), were diminished in the presence of the PKA inhibitor H-89 or an adenovirus-mediated expression of PKA-inhibitor protein, PKI. In contrast, indomethacin completely blocked the increment of PKA and I(SC) triggered by ATP and AA, but did not affect PKA activation and I(SC) detected with PGE1. The kinetics of [Ca2+]i elevation in ATP- and thapsigargin-treated cells were similar and suppressed by the Ca(2+)i chelator BAPTA. Neither baseline nor maximal increment of ATP-induced I(SC) was affected by thapsigargin and BAPTA. Real-time PCR showed that C7 cells express more mRNA for P 2Y1 and P 2Y2 than for other P 2Y receptor subtypes. The rank order of potency (2MeSATP > ATP > ADP >> UTP) indicates that P 2Y1 rather than P 2Y2 receptors contribute to PKA and I(SC) activation. Viewed collectively, these data show that Cl- secretion in C7-MDCK monolayers treated with basolateral ATP is triggered by P 2Y1 receptors and is mediated by subsequent [Ca2+]i-independent activation of PLA2 and PKA.

Overexpression of the epithelial Na+ channel gamma subunit in collecting duct cells: interactions of Liddle's mutations and steroids on expression and function

The epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) has three subunits; the expression of each can be regulated. Liddle's syndrome is caused by an activating mutation in the C terminus of either the beta or gamma subunit. We used a doxycycline-regulated adenovirus system to express varying levels of human gammaENaC in renal collecting duct (M1 cell) monolayers. Increasing levels of wild type human gamma ENaC (gammahENaC) produced a 2.5-fold enhancement of Na(+) transport. Expression of a truncated C terminus produced less protein than wild type or a gammaY627A missense mutation. However, either of these mutations produced a approximately 4-fold increase in Na(+) transport despite the different levels of protein expression. Unexpectedly, overexpression of a marginally detectable amount of gammahENaC was sufficient to produce a full increase in Na(+) transport; a further increase in protein expression produced no further increase in Na(+) transport. Steroid treatment increased Na(+) transport to a similar absolute magnitude in control monolayers and in monolayers expressing all types of gammahENaC. Withdrawal of steroids after 24 h produced a decline in Na(+) transport over 8 h in monolayers expressing wild type but not the Liddle's mutation. Using treatment with brefeldin A to estimate the disappearance rate constants, we found progressively slower disappearance rates in monolayers overexpressing gammahENaC and the Liddle's mutant. Calculated insertion rates were slower for the Liddle's mutant than for wild type despite increasing rates of Na(+) transport. These results raise questions regarding previously held assumptions about the behavior of ENaC.

Epithelial Sodium Channel Inhibition by AMP-activated Protein Kinase in Oocytes and Polarized Renal Epithelial Cells

The epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) regulates epithelial salt and water reabsorption, processes that require significant expenditure of cellular energy. To test whether the ubiquitous metabolic sensor AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) regulates ENaC, we examined the effects of AMPK activation on amiloride-sensitive currents in Xenopus oocytes and polarized mouse collecting duct mpkCCD(c14) cells. Microinjection of oocytes expressing mouse ENaC (mENaC) with either active AMPK protein or an AMPK activator inhibited mENaC currents relative to controls as measured by two-electrode voltage-clamp studies. Similarly, pharmacological AMPK activation or overexpression of an activating AMPK mutant in mpkCCD(c14) cells inhibited amiloride-sensitive short circuit currents. Expression of a degenerin mutant beta-mENaC subunit (S518K) along with wild type alpha and gamma increased the channel open probability (P(o)) to approximately 1. However, AMPK activation inhibited currents similarly with expression of either degenerin mutant or wild type mENaC. Single channel recordings under these conditions demonstrated that neither P(o) nor channel conductance was affected by AMPK activation. Moreover, expression of a Liddle's syndrome-type beta-mENaC mutant (Y618A) greatly enhanced ENaC whole cell currents relative to wild type ENaC controls and prevented AMPK-dependent inhibition. These findings indicate that AMPK-dependent ENaC inhibition is mediated through a decrease in the number of active channels at the plasma membrane (N), presumably through enhanced Nedd4-2-dependent ENaC endocytosis. The AMPK-ENaC interaction appears to be indirect; AMPK did not bind ENaC in cells, as assessed by in vivo pull-down assays, nor did it phosphorylate ENaC in vitro. In summary, these results suggest a novel mechanism for coupling ENaC activity and renal Na(+) handling to cellular metabolic status through AMPK, which may help prevent cellular Na(+) loading under hypoxic or ischemic conditions.

Cultured monolayers of the dog jejunum with the structural and functional properties resembling the normal epithelium

The development of a culture of the normal mammalian jejunum motivated this work. Isolated crypt cells of the dog jejunum were induced to form primary cultures on Snapwell filters. Up to seven subcultures were studied under the electron microscope and in Ussing chambers. Epithelial markers were identified by RT-PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescent staining. Confluent monolayers exhibit a dense apical brush border, basolateral membrane infoldings, desmosomes, and tight junctions expressing zonula occludens-1, occludin-1, and claudin-3 and -4. In OptiMEM medium fortified with epidermal growth factor, hydrocortisone, and insulin, monolayer transepithelial voltage was -6.8 mV (apical side), transepithelial resistance was 1,050 Omega.cm(2), and short-circuit current (I(sc)) was 8.1 microA/cm(2). Transcellular and paracellular resistances were estimated as 14.8 and 1.1 kOmega.cm(2), respectively. Serosal ouabain reduced voltage and current toward zero, as did apical amiloride. The presence of mRNA of alpha-epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) was confirmed. Na-d-glucose cotransport was identified with an antibody to Na(+)-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 1. The unidirectional mucosa-to-serosa Na(+) flux (19 nmol.min(-1).cm(-2)) was two times as large as the reverse flux, and net transepithelial Na(+) flux was nearly double the amiloride-sensitive I(sc). In plain Ringer solution, the amiloride-sensitive I(sc) went toward zero. Under these conditions plus mucosal amiloride, serosal dibutyryl-cAMP elicited a Cl(-)-dependent I(sc) consistent with the stimulation of transepithelial Cl(-) secretion. In conclusion, primary cultures and subcultures of the normal mammalian jejunum form polarized epithelial monolayers with 1) the properties of a leaky epithelium, 2) claudins specific to the jejunal tight junction, 3) transepithelial Na(+) absorption mediated in part by SGLT1 and ENaC, and 4) electrogenic Cl(-) secretion activated by cAMP.

Arachidonic acid inhibits epithelial Na channel via cytochrome P450 (CYP) epoxygenase-dependent metabolic pathways

We used the patch-clamp technique to study the effect of arachidonic acid (AA) on epithelial Na channels (ENaC) in the rat cortical collecting duct (CCD). Application of 10 μM AA decreased the ENaC activity defined by NPo from 1.0 to 0.1. The dose–response curve of the AA effect on ENaC shows that 2 μM AA inhibited the ENaC activity by 50%. The effect of AA on ENaC is specific because neither 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA), a nonmetabolized analogue of AA, nor 11,14,17-eicosatrienoic acid mimicked the inhibitory effect of AA on ENaC. Moreover, inhibition of either cyclooxygenase (COX) with indomethacin or cytochrome P450 (CYP) ω-hydroxylation with N-methylsulfonyl-12,12-dibromododec-11-enamide (DDMS) failed to abolish the effect of AA on ENaC. In contrast, the inhibitory effect of AA on ENaC was absent in the presence of N-methylsulfonyl-6-(propargyloxyphenyl)hexanamide (MS-PPOH), an agent that inhibits CYP-epoxygenase activity. The notion that the inhibitory effect of AA is mediated by CYP-epoxygenase–dependent metabolites is also supported by the observation that application of 200 nM 11,12-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) inhibited ENaC in the CCD. In contrast, addition of 5,6-, 8,9-, or 14,15-EET failed to decrease ENaC activity. Also, application of 11,12-EET can still reduce ENaC activity in the presence of MS-PPOH, suggesting that 11,12-EET is a mediator for the AA-induced inhibition of ENaC. Furthermore, gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis detected the presence of 11,12-EET in the CCD and CYP2C23 is expressed in the principal cells of the CCD. We conclude that AA inhibits ENaC activity in the CCD and that the effect of AA is mediated by a CYP-epoxygenase–dependent metabolite, 11,12-EET.