Deficient HCO3- transport in an AE1 mutant with normal Cl- transport can be rescued by carbonic anhydrase II presented on an adjacent AE1 protomer

Mechanisms Underlying the Effects of Chloroquine on Red Blood Cells Metabolism

Chloroquine (CQ) is a 4-aminoquinoline derivative largely employed in the management of malaria. CQ treatment exploits the drug's ability to cross the erythrocyte membrane, inhibiting heme polymerase in malarial trophozoites. Accumulation of CQ prevents the conversion of heme to hemozoin, causing its toxic buildup, thus blocking the survival of Plasmodium parasites. Recently, it has been reported that CQ is able to exert antiviral properties, mainly against HIV and SARS-CoV-2. This renewed interest in CQ treatment has led to the development of new studies which aim to explore its side effects and long-term outcome. Our study focuses on the effects of CQ in non-parasitized red blood cells (RBCs), investigating hemoglobin (Hb) functionality, the anion exchanger 1 (AE1) or band 3 protein, caspase 3 and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B) activity, intra and extracellular ATP levels, and the oxidative state of RBCs. Interestingly, CQ influences the functionality of both Hb and AE1, the main RBC proteins, affecting the properties of Hb oxygen affinity by shifting the conformational structure of the molecule towards the R state. The influence of CQ on AE1 flux leads to a rate variation of anion exchange, which begins at a concentration of 2.5 μM and reaches its maximum effect at 20 µM. Moreover, a significant decrease in intra and extracellular ATP levels was observed in RBCs pre-treated with 10 µM CQ vs. erythrocytes under normal conditions. This effect is related to the PTP-1B activity which is reduced in RBCs incubated with CQ. Despite these metabolic alterations to RBCs caused by exposure to CQ, no signs of variations in oxidative state or caspase 3 activation were recorded. Our results highlight the antithetical effects of CQ on the functionality and metabolism of RBCs, and encourage the development of new research to better understand the multiple potentiality of the drug.

Mutations and clinical characteristics of dRTA caused by SLC4A1 mutations: Analysis based on published patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The genetic and clinical characteristics of patients with distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) caused by SLC4A1 mutations have not been systematically recorded before. Here, we summarized the SLC4A1 mutations and clinical characteristics associated with dRTA.

METHODS

Database was searched, and the mutations and clinical manifestations of patients were summarized from the relevant articles.

RESULTS

Fifty-three eligible articles involving 169 patients were included and 41 mutations were identified totally. Fifteen mutations involving 100 patients were autosomal dominant inheritance, 21 mutations involving 61 patients were autosomal recessive inheritance. Nephrocalcinosis or kidney stones were found in 72.27%, impairment in renal function in 14.29%, developmental disorders in 61.16%, hematological abnormalities in 33.88%, and muscle weakness in 13.45% of patients. The age of onset was younger (P < 0.01), urine pH was higher (P < 0.01), and serum potassium was lower (P < 0.001) in recessive patients than patients with dominant SLC4A1 mutations. Autosomal recessive inheritance was more often found in Asian patients (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The children present with metabolic acidosis with high urinary pH, accompanying hypokalemia, hyperchloremia, nephrocalcinosis, growth retardation and hematological abnormalities should be suspected as dRTA and suggested a genetic testing. The patients with recessive dRTA are generally more severely affected than that with dominant SLC4A1 mutations. Autosomal recessive inheritance was more often found in Asian patients, and more attentions should be paid to the Asian patients.

The evolving biology of the proton‐coupled folate transporter: New insights into regulation, structure, and mechanism

The human proton‐coupled folate transporter (PCFT; SLC46A1) or hPCFT was identified in 2006 as the principal folate transporter involved in the intestinal absorption of dietary folates. A rare autosomal recessive hereditary folate malabsorption syndrome is attributable to human SLC46A1 variants. The recognition that hPCFT was highly expressed in many tumors stimulated substantial interest in its potential for cytotoxic drug targeting, taking advantage of its high‐level transport activity under acidic pH conditions that characterize many tumors and its modest expression in most normal tissues. To better understand the basis for variations in hPCFT levels between tissues including human tumors, studies have examined the transcriptional regulation of hPCFT including the roles of CpG hypermethylation and critical transcription factors and cis elements. Additional focus involved identifying key structural and functional determinants of hPCFT transport that, combined with homology models based on structural homologies to the bacterial transporters GlpT and LacY, have enabled new structural and mechanistic insights. Recently, cryo‐electron microscopy structures of chicken PCFT in a substrate‐free state and in complex with the antifolate pemetrexed were reported, providing further structural insights into determinants of (anti)folate recognition and the mechanism of pH‐regulated (anti)folate transport by PCFT. Like many major facilitator proteins, hPCFT exists as a homo‐oligomer, and evidence suggests that homo‐oligomerization of hPCFT monomeric proteins may be important for its intracellular trafficking and/or transport function. Better understanding of the structure, function and regulation of hPCFT should facilitate the rational development of new therapeutic strategies for conditions associated with folate deficiency, as well as cancer.

Cell Physiology and Molecular Mechanism of Anion Transport by Erythrocyte Band 3/AE1

The major transmembrane protein of the red blood cell, known as band 3, AE1, and SLC4A1, has two main functions: 1) catalysis of Cl^-/HCO₃^- exchange, one of the steps in CO₂ excretion; 2) anchoring the membrane skeleton. This review summarizes the 150 year history of research on red cell anion transport and band 3 as an experimental system for studying membrane protein structure and ion transport mechanisms. Important early findings were that red cell Cl^- transport is a tightly coupled 1:1 exchange and band 3 is labeled by stilbenesulfonate derivatives that inhibit anion transport. Biochemical studies showed that the protein is dimeric or tetrameric (paired dimers) and that there is one stilbenedisulfonate binding site per subunit of the dimer. Transport kinetics and inhibitor characteristics supported the idea that the transporter acts by an alternating access mechanism with intrinsic asymmetry. The sequence of band 3 cDNA provided a framework for detailed study of protein topology and amino acid residues important for transport. The identification of genetic variants produced insights into the roles of band 3 in red cell abnormalities and distal renal tubular acidosis. The publication of the membrane domain crystal structure made it possible to propose concrete molecular models of transport. Future research directions include improving our understanding of the transport mechanism at the molecular level and of the integrative relationships among band 3, hemoglobin, carbonic anhydrase, and gradients (both transmembrane and subcellular) of HCO₃^-, Cl^-, O₂, CO₂, pH, and NO metabolites during pulmonary and systemic capillary gas exchange.

Experimental Approaches to Identify Selective Picomolar Inhibitors for Carbonic Anhydrase IX

BACKGROUND

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) regulate pH homeostasis via the reversible hydration of CO₂, thereby emerging as essential enzymes for many vital functions. Among 12 catalytically active CA isoforms in humans, CA IX has become a relevant therapeutic target because of its role in cancer progression. Only two CA IX inhibitors have entered clinical trials, mostly due to low affinity and selectivity properties.

OBJECTIVE

The current review presents the design, development, and identification of the selective nano- to picomolar CA IX inhibitors VD11-4-2, VR16-09, and VD12-09.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Compounds were selected from our database, composed of over 400 benzensulfonamides, synthesized at our laboratory, and tested for their binding to 12 human CAs. Here we discuss the CA CO₂ hydratase activity/inhibition assay and several biophysical techniques, such as fluorescent thermal shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry, highlighting their contribution to the analysis of compound affinity and structure- activity relationships. To obtain sufficient amounts of recombinant CAs for inhibitor screening, several gene cloning and protein purification strategies are presented, including site-directed CA mutants, heterologous CAs from Xenopus oocytes, and native endogenous CAs. The cancer cell-based methods, such as clonogenicity, extracellular acidification, and mass spectrometric gas-analysis are reviewed, confirming nanomolar activities of lead inhibitors in intact cancer cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Novel CA IX inhibitors are promising derivatives for in vivo explorations. Furthermore, the simultaneous targeting of several proteins involved in proton flux upon tumor acidosis and the disruption of transport metabolons might improve cancer management.

Hepatobiliary acid-base homeostasis: Insights from analogous secretory epithelia

Many epithelia secrete bicarbonate-rich fluid to generate flow, alter viscosity, control pH and potentially protect luminal and intracellular structures from chemical stress. Bicarbonate is a key component of human bile and impaired biliary bicarbonate secretion is associated with liver damage. Major efforts have been undertaken to gain insight into acid-base homeostasis in cholangiocytes and more can be learned from analogous secretory epithelia. Extrahepatic examples include salivary and pancreatic duct cells, duodenocytes, airway and renal epithelial cells. The cellular machinery involved in acid-base homeostasis includes carbonic anhydrase enzymes, transporters of the solute carrier family, and intra- and extracellular pH sensors. This pH-regulatory system is orchestrated by protein-protein interactions, the establishment of an electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane and bicarbonate sensing of the intra- and extracellular compartment. In this review, we discuss conserved principles identified in analogous secretory epithelia in the light of current knowledge on cholangiocyte physiology. We present a framework for cholangiocellular acid-base homeostasis supported by expression analysis of publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from human cholangiocytes, which provide insights into the molecular basis of pH homeostasis and dysregulation in the biliary system.

Transport Metabolons and Acid/Base Balance in Tumor Cells

Solid tumors are metabolically highly active tissues, which produce large amounts of acid. The acid/base balance in tumor cells is regulated by the concerted interplay between a variety of membrane transporters and carbonic anhydrases (CAs), which cooperate to produce an alkaline intracellular, and an acidic extracellular, environment, in which cancer cells can outcompete their adjacent host cells. Many acid/base transporters form a structural and functional complex with CAs, coined "transport metabolon". Transport metabolons with bicarbonate transporters require the binding of CA to the transporter and CA enzymatic activity. In cancer cells, these bicarbonate transport metabolons have been attributed a role in pH regulation and cell migration. Another type of transport metabolon is formed between CAs and monocarboxylate transporters, which mediate proton-coupled lactate transport across the cell membrane. In this complex, CAs function as "proton antenna" for the transporter, which mediate the rapid exchange of protons between the transporter and the surroundings. These transport metabolons do not require CA catalytic activity, and support the rapid efflux of lactate and protons from hypoxic cancer cells to allow sustained glycolytic activity and cell proliferation. Due to their prominent role in tumor acid/base regulation and metabolism, transport metabolons might be promising drug targets for new approaches in cancer therapy.

The novel class of seven transmembrane segment inverted repeat carriers

Solute carriers from the SLC4, SLC23, and SLC26 families are involved in pH regulation, vitamin C transport and ion homeostasis. While these families do not share any obvious sequence relationship, they are united by their unique and novel architecture. Each member of this structural class is organized into two structurally related halves of seven transmembrane segments each. These halves span the membrane with opposite orientations and form an intricately intertwined structure of two inverted repeats. This review highlights the general design principles of this fold and reveals the diversity between the different families. We discuss their domain architecture, structural framework and transport mode and detail an initial transport mechanism for this fold inferred from the recently solved structures of different members.

Crystal structure of the anion exchanger domain of human erythrocyte band 3

Anion exchanger 1 (AE1), also known as band 3 or SLC4A1, plays a key role in the removal of carbon dioxide from tissues by facilitating the exchange of chloride and bicarbonate across the plasma membrane of erythrocytes. An isoform of AE1 is also present in the kidney. Specific mutations in human AE1 cause several types of hereditary hemolytic anemias and/or distal renal tubular acidosis. Here we report the crystal structure of the band 3 anion exchanger domain (AE1(CTD)) at 3.5 angstroms. The structure is locked in an outward-facing open conformation by an inhibitor. Comparing this structure with a substrate-bound structure of the uracil transporter UraA in an inward-facing conformation allowed us to identify the anion-binding position in the AE1(CTD), and to propose a possible transport mechanism that could explain why selected mutations lead to disease.

Structure and Function of SLC4 Family [Formula: see text] Transporters

The solute carrier SLC4 family consists of 10 members, nine of which are [Formula: see text] transporters, including three Na(+)-independent Cl(-)/[Formula: see text] exchangers AE1, AE2, and AE3, five Na(+)-coupled [Formula: see text] transporters NBCe1, NBCe2, NBCn1, NBCn2, and NDCBE, as well as "AE4" whose Na(+)-dependence remains controversial. The SLC4 [Formula: see text] transporters play critical roles in pH regulation and transepithelial movement of electrolytes with a broad range of demonstrated physiological relevances. Dysfunctions of these transporters are associated with a series of human diseases. During the past decades, tremendous amount of effort has been undertaken to investigate the topological organization of the SLC4 transporters in the plasma membrane. Based upon the proposed topology models, mutational and functional studies have identified important structural elements likely involved in the ion translocation by the SLC4 transporters. In the present article, we review the advances during the past decades in understanding the structure and function of the SLC4 transporters.

Carbonic anhydrase II mediates malignant behavior of pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors

In normal lung, the predominant cytoplasmic carbonic anhydrase (CA) isozyme (CAII) is highly expressed in amine- and peptide-producing pulmonary neuroendocrine cells where its role involves CO2 sensing. Here, we report robust cytoplasmic expression of CAII by immunohistochemistry in the tumor cells of different native neuroendocrine tumor (NET) types, including typical and atypical carcinoids and small-cell lung carcinomas, and in NET and non-NET tumor cell lines. Because, in both pulmonary neuroendocrine cell and related NETs, the hypercapnia-induced secretion of bioactive serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) is mediated by CAII, we investigated the role of CAII in the biological behavior of carcinoid cell line H727 and the type II cell-derived A549 using both in vitro clonogenicity and in vivo xenograft model. We show that short hairpin RNA-mediated down-regulation of CAII resulted in significant reduction in clonogenicity of H727 and A549 cells in vitro, and marked suppression of tumor growth in vivo. CAII-short hairpin RNA cell-derived xenografts showed significantly reduced mitosis (phosphohistone H3 marker) and proliferation associated antigen Ki-67 (Ki67 marker), and significantly increased apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. Using an apoptosis gene array, we found no association with caspases 3 and 8, but with a novel association of CAII-mediated apoptosis with specific mitochondrial apoptosis-associated proteins. Furthermore, these xenografts showed a significantly reduced vascularization (CD31 marker). Thus, CAII may play a critical role in NET lung tumor growth, angiogenesis, and survival, possibly via 5-hydroxytryptamine, known to drive autocrine tumor growth. As such, CAII is a potential therapeutic target for the difficult-to-treat lung NETs.

Bicarbonate transport in health and disease

Bicarbonate (HCO3(-)) has a central place in human physiology as the waste product of mitochondrial energy production and for its role in pH buffering throughout the body. Because bicarbonate is impermeable to membranes, bicarbonate transport proteins are necessary to enable control of bicarbonate levels across membranes. In humans, 14 bicarbonate transport proteins, members of the SLC4 and SLC26 families, function by differing transport mechanisms. In addition, some anion channels and ZIP metal transporters contribute to bicarbonate movement across membranes. Defective bicarbonate transport leads to diseases, including systemic acidosis, brain dysfunction, kidney stones, and hypertension. Altered expression levels of bicarbonate transporters in patients with breast, colon, and lung cancer suggest an important role of these transporters in cancer.

Evidence from simultaneous intracellular- and surface-pH transients that carbonic anhydrase II enhances CO2 fluxes across Xenopus oocyte plasma membranes

The α-carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are zinc-containing enzymes that catalyze the interconversion of CO2 and HCO3 (-). Here, we focus on human CA II (CA II), a ubiquitous cytoplasmic enzyme. In the second paper in this series, we examine CA IV at the extracellular surface. After microinjecting recombinant CA II in a Tris solution (or just Tris) into oocytes, we expose oocytes to 1.5% CO2/10 mM HCO3 (-)/pH 7.50 while using microelectrodes to monitor intracellular pH (pHi) and surface pH (pHS). CO2 influx causes the familiar sustained pHi fall as well as a transient pHS rise; CO2 efflux does the opposite. Both during CO2 addition and removal, CA II increases the magnitudes of the maximal rate of pHi change, (dpHi/dt)max, and the maximal change in pHS, ΔpHS. Preincubating oocytes with the inhibitor ethoxzolamide eliminates the effects of CA II. Compared with pHS, pHi begins to change only after a delay of ~9 s and its relaxation has a larger (i.e., slower) time constant (τpHi > τpHS ). Simultaneous measurements with two pHi electrodes, one superficial and one deep, suggest that impalement depth contributes to pHi delay and higher τpHi . Using higher CO2/HCO3 (-) levels, i.e., 5%/33 mM HCO3 (-) or 10%/66 mM HCO3 (-), increases (dpHi/dt)max and ΔpHS, though not in proportion to the increase in [CO2]. A reaction-diffusion mathematical model (described in the third paper in this series) accounts for the above general features and supports the conclusion that cytosolic CA-consuming entering CO2 or replenishing exiting CO2-increases CO2 fluxes across the cell membrane.

Carbonic anhydrases and their interplay with acid/base-coupled membrane transporters

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) have not only been identified as ubiquitous enzymes catalyzing the fast reversible hydration of carbon dioxide to generate or consume protons and bicarbonate, but also as intra- and extracellular proteins, which facilitate transport function of many acid/base transporting membrane proteins, coined 'transport metabolon'. Functional interaction between CAs and acid/base transporters, such as chloride/bicarbonate exchanger (AE), sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter (NBC) and sodium/hydrogen exchanger (NHE) has been shown to require both catalytic CA activity as well as direct binding of the enzyme to specific sites on the transporter. In contrast, functional interaction between different CA isoforms and lactate-proton-cotransporting monocarboxylate transporters (MCT) has been found to be isoform-specific and independent of CA catalytic activity, but seems to require an intramolecular proton shuttle within the enzyme. In this chapter, we review the various types of interactions between acid/base-coupled membrane carriers and different CA isoforms, as studied in vitro, in intact Xenopus oocytes, and in various mammalian cell types. Furthermore, we discuss recent findings that indicate the significance of these 'transport metabolons' for normal cell functions.

Activity and distribution of intracellular carbonic anhydrase II and their effects on the transport activity of anion exchanger AE1/SLC4A1

We have investigated the previously published 'metabolon hypothesis' postulating that a close association of the anion exchanger 1 (AE1) and cytosolic carbonic anhydrase II (CAII) exists that greatly increases the transport activity of AE1. We study whether there is a physical association of and direct functional interaction between CAII and AE1 in the native human red cell and in tsA201 cells coexpressing heterologous fluorescent fusion proteins CAII-CyPet and YPet-AE1. In these doubly transfected tsA201 cells, YPet-AE1 is clearly associated with the cell membrane, whereas CAII-CyPet is homogeneously distributed throughout the cell in a cytoplasmic pattern. Förster resonance energy transfer measurements fail to detect close proximity of YPet-AE1 and CAII-CyPet. The absence of an association of AE1 and CAII is supported by immunoprecipitation experiments using Flag-antibody against Flag-tagged AE1 expressed in tsA201 cells, which does not co-precipitate native CAII but co-precipitates coexpressed ankyrin. Both the CAII and the AE1 fusion proteins are fully functional in tsA201 cells as judged by CA activity and by cellular HCO3(-) permeability (P(HCO3(-))) sensitive to inhibition by 4,4-Diisothiocyano-2,2-stilbenedisulfonic acid. Expression of the non-catalytic CAII mutant V143Y leads to a drastic reduction of endogenous CAII and to a corresponding reduction of total intracellular CA activity. Overexpression of an N-terminally truncated CAII lacking the proposed site of interaction with the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail of AE1 substantially increases intracellular CA activity, as does overexpression of wild-type CAII. These variously co-transfected tsA201 cells exhibit a positive correlation between cellular P(HCO3(-)) and intracellular CA activity. The relationship reflects that expected from changes in cytoplasmic CA activity improving substrate supply to or removal from AE1, without requirement for a CAII-AE1 metabolon involving physical interaction. A functional contribution of the hypothesized CAII-AE1 metabolon to erythroid AE1-mediated HCO3(-) transport was further tested in normal red cells and red cells from CAII-deficient patients that retain substantial CA activity associated with the erythroid CAI protein lacking the proposed AE1-binding sequence. Erythroid P(HCO3(-)) was indistinguishable in these two cell types, providing no support for the proposed functional importance of the physical interaction of CAII and AE1. A theoretical model predicts that homogeneous cytoplasmic distribution of CAII is more favourable for cellular transport of HCO3(-) and CO2 than is association of CAII with the cytoplasmic surface of the plasma membrane. This is due to the fact that the relatively slow intracellular transport of H(+) makes it most efficient to place the CA in the vicinity of the haemoglobin molecules, which are homogeneously distributed over the cytoplasm.

Membrane transport metabolons

In this review evidence from a wide variety of biological systems is presented for the genetic, functional, and likely physical association of membrane transporters and the enzymes that metabolize the transported substrates. This evidence supports the hypothesis that the dynamic association of transporters and enzymes creates functional membrane transport metabolons that channel substrates typically obtained from the extracellular compartment directly into their cellular metabolism. The immediate modification of substrates on the inner surface of the membrane prevents back-flux through facilitated transporters, increasing the efficiency of transport. In some cases products of the enzymes are themselves substrates for the transporters that efflux the products in an exchange or antiport mechanism. Regulation of the binding of enzymes to transporters and their mutual activities may play a role in modulating flux through transporters and entry of substrates into metabolic pathways. Examples showing the physical association of transporters and enzymes are provided, but available structural data is sparse. Genetic and functional linkages between membrane transporters and enzymes were revealed by an analysis of Escherichia coli operons encoding polycistronic mRNAs and provide a list of predicted interactions ripe for further structural studies. This article supports the view that membrane transport metabolons are important throughout Nature in organisms ranging from bacteria to humans.

SLC4A transporters

SLC4A gene family proteins include bicarbonate transporters that move HCO(3)(-) across the plasma membrane and regulate intracellular pH and transepithelial movement of acid-base equivalents. These transporters are Cl/HCO(3) exchangers, electrogenic Na/HCO(3) cotransporters, electroneutral Na/HCO(3) cotransporters, and Na(+)-driven Cl/HCO(3) exchanger. Studies of the bicarbonate transporters in vitro and in vivo have demonstrated their physiological importance for acid-base homeostasis at the cellular and systemic levels. Recent advances in structure/function analysis have also provided valuable information on domains or motifs critical for regulation, ion translocation, and protein topology. This chapter focuses on the molecular mechanisms of ion transport along with associated structural aspects from mutagenesis of particular residues and from chimeric constructs. Structure/function studies have helped to understand the mechanism by which ion substrates are moved via the transporters. This chapter also describes some insights into the structure of SLC4A1 (AE1) and SLC4A4 (NBCe1) transporters. Finally, as some SLC4A transporters exist in concert with other proteins in the cells, the structural features associated with protein-protein interactions are briefly discussed.

Identification and functional impact of homo-oligomers of the human proton-coupled folate transporter

The proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT; SLC46A1) is a proton-folate symporter that is abundantly expressed in solid tumors and normal tissues, such as duodenum. The acidic pH optimum for PCFT is relevant to intestinal absorption of folates and could afford a means of selectively targeting tumors with novel cytotoxic antifolates. PCFT is a member of the major facilitator superfamily of transporters. Because major facilitator superfamily members exist as homo-oligomers, we tested this for PCFT because such structures could be significant to PCFT mechanism and regulation. By transiently expressing PCFT in reduced folate carrier- and PCFT-null HeLa (R1-11) cells and chemical cross-linking with 1,1-methanediyl bismethanethiosulfonate and Western blotting, PCFT species with molecular masses approximating those of the PCFT dimer and higher order oligomers were detected. Blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis identified PCFT dimer, trimer, and tetramer forms. PCFT monomers with hemagglutinin and His(10) epitope tags were co-expressed in R1-11 cells, solubilized, and bound to nickel affinity columns, establishing their physical associations. Co-expressing YPet and ECFP*-tagged PCFT monomers enabled transport and fluorescence resonance energy transfer in plasma membranes of R1-11 cells. Combined wild-type (WT) and inactive mutant P425R PCFTs were targeted to the cell surface by surface biotinylation/Western blots and confocal microscopy and functionally exhibited a "dominant-positive" phenotype, implying positive cooperativity between PCFT monomers and functional rescue of mutant by WT PCFT. Our results demonstrate the existence of PCFT homo-oligomers and imply their functional and regulatory impact. Better understanding of these higher order PCFT structures may lead to therapeutic applications related to folate uptake in hereditary folate malabsorption, and delivery of PCFT-targeted chemotherapy drugs for cancer.

Arg 901 in the AE1 C-terminal tail is involved in conformational change but not in substrate binding

In our previous paper, we demonstrated that Arg 901 in the C-terminal tail of human AE1 (band 3, anion exchanger 1) had a functional role in conformational change during anion exchange. To further examine how Arg 901 is involved in conformational change, we expressed various Arg 901 mutants and alanine mutants of the C-terminal tail (from Leu 886 to Val 911) on the plasma membrane of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and evaluated the kinetic parameters of sulfate ion transport. As a result, Vmax decreased as the hydrophobicities of the 901st and peripheral hydrophilic residues increased, indicating that the hydrophobicity of the C-terminal residue is involved in the conformational change. We also found the alkali and protease resistance of the C-terminal region after Arg 901 modification with hydroxyphenylglyoxal (HPG) or phenylglyoxal (PG), a hydrophobic reagent. These results suggested that the increased hydrophobicity of the C-terminal region around Arg 901 leads to inefficient conformational change by the newly produced hydrophobic interaction.

Interactions of mouse glycophorin A with the dRTA-related mutant G719D of the mouse Cl-/HCO3- exchanger Ae1

The AE1 mutation G701D, associated with recessive distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA), produces only minimal erythroid phenotype, reflecting erythroid-specific expression of stimulatory AE1 subunit glycophorin A (GPA). GPA transgene expression could theoretically treat recessive dRTA in patients and in mice expressing cognate Ae1 mutation G719D. However, human (h) GPA and mouse (m) Gpa amino acid sequences are widely divergent, and mGpa function in vitro has not been investigated. We therefore studied in Xenopus oocytes the effects of coexpressed mGpa and hGPA on anion transport by erythroid (e) and kidney (k) isoforms of wild-type mAe1 (meAe1, mkAe1) and of mAe1 mutant G719D. Coexpression of hGPA or mGpa enhanced the function of meAe1 and mkAe1 and rescued the nonfunctional meAe1 and mkAe1 G719D mutants through increased surface expression. Progressive N-terminal truncation studies revealed a role for meAe1 amino acids 22-28 in GPA-responsiveness of meAe1 G719D. MouseN-cyto/humanTMD and humanN-cyto/mouseTMD kAE1 chimeras were active and GPA-responsive. In contrast, whereas chimera mkAe1N-cyto/hkAE1 G701DTMD was GPA-responsive, chimera hkAE1N-cyto/mkAe1 G719DTMD was GPA-insensitive. Moreover, whereas the isolated transmembrane domain (TMD) of hAE1 G701D was GPA-responsive, that of mAe1 G719D was GPA-insensitive. Thus, mGpa increases surface expression and activity of meAe1 and mkAe1. However, the G719D mutation renders certain mAe1 mutant constructs GPA-unresponsive and highlights a role for erythroid-specific meAe1 amino acids 22-28 in GPA-responsiveness.

A frameshift mutation in golden retriever dogs with progressive retinal atrophy endorses SLC4A3 as a candidate gene for human retinal degenerations

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in dogs, the canine equivalent of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in humans, is characterised by vision loss due to degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina, eventually leading to complete blindness. It affects more than 100 dog breeds, and is caused by numerous mutations. RP affects 1 in 4000 people in the Western world and 70% of causal mutations remain unknown. Canine diseases are natural models for the study of human diseases and are becoming increasingly useful for the development of therapies in humans. One variant, prcd-PRA, only accounts for a small proportion of PRA cases in the Golden Retriever (GR) breed. Using genome-wide association with 27 cases and 19 controls we identified a novel PRA locus on CFA37 (p_raw = 1.94×10⁻¹⁰, p_genome = 1.0×10⁻⁵), where a 644 kb region was homozygous within cases. A frameshift mutation was identified in a solute carrier anion exchanger gene (SLC4A3) located within this region. This variant was present in 56% of PRA cases and 87% of obligate carriers, and displayed a recessive mode of inheritance with full penetrance within those lineages in which it segregated. Allele frequencies are approximately 4% in the UK, 6% in Sweden and 2% in France, but the variant has not been found in GRs from the US. A large proportion of cases (approximately 44%) remain unexplained, indicating that PRA in this breed is genetically heterogeneous and caused by at least three mutations. SLC4A3 is important for retinal function and has not previously been associated with spontaneously occurring retinal degenerations in any other species, including humans.

An intramolecular transport metabolon: fusion of carbonic anhydrase II to the COOH terminus of the Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-)exchanger, AE1

Anion exchanger 1 (AE1) is the plasma membrane Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger of erythrocytes. Carbonic anhydrases (CA) provide substrate for AE1 by catalyzing the reaction, H(2)O + CO(2) ↔ HCO(3)(-) + H(+). The physical complex of CAII with AE1 has been proposed to maximize anion exchange activity. To examine the effect of CAII catalysis on AE1 transport rate, we fused either CAII-wild type or catalytically inactive CAII-V143Y to the cytoplasmic COOH terminus of AE1 to form AE1.CAII and AE1.CAII-V143Y, respectively. When expressed in transfected human embryonic kidney 293 cells, AE1.CAII had a similar Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange activity to AE1 alone, as assessed by the flux of H(+) equivalents (87 ± 4% vs. AE1) or rate of change of intracellular Cl(-) concentration (93 ± 4% vs. AE1), suggesting that CAII does not activate AE1. In contrast, AE1.CAII-V143Y displayed transport rates for H(+) equivalents and Cl(-) of 55 ± 2% and of 40 ± 2%, versus AE1. Fusion of CAII to AE1 therefore reduces anion transport activity, but this reduction is compensated for during Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange by the presence of catalytically active CAII. Overexpression of free CAII-V143Y acts in a dominant negative manner to reduce AE1-mediated HCO(3)(-) transport by displacement of endogenous CAII-wild type from its binding site on AE1. To examine whether AE1.CAII bound endogenous CAII, we coexpressed CAII-V143Y along with AE1 or AE1.CAII. The bicarbonate transport activity of AE1 was inhibited by CAII-V143Y, whereas the activity of AE1.CAII was unaffected by CAII-V143Y, suggesting impaired transport activity upon displacement of functional CAII from AE1 but not AE1.CAII. Taken together, these data suggest that association of functional CAII with AE1 increases Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange activity, consistent with the HCO(3)(-) transport metabolon model.

Molecular physiology and genetics of Na+-independent SLC4 anion exchangers

Plasmalemmal Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchangers are encoded by the SLC4 and SLC26 gene superfamilies, and function to regulate intracellular pH, [Cl(-)] and cell volume. The Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchangers of polarized epithelial cells also contribute to transepithelial secretion and reabsorption of acid-base equivalents and Cl(-). This review focuses on Na(+)-independent electroneutral Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchangers of the SLC4 family. Human SLC4A1/AE1 mutations cause the familial erythroid disorders of spherocytic anemia, stomatocytic anemia and ovalocytosis. A largely discrete set of AE1 mutations causes familial distal renal tubular acidosis. The Slc4a2/Ae2(-/-) mouse dies before weaning with achlorhydria and osteopetrosis. A hypomorphic Ae2(-/-) mouse survives to exhibit male infertility with defective spermatogenesis and a syndrome resembling primary biliary cirrhosis. A human SLC4A3/AE3 polymorphism is associated with seizure disorder, and the Ae3(-/-) mouse has increased seizure susceptibility. The transport mechanism of mammalian SLC4/AE polypeptides is that of electroneutral Cl(-)/anion exchange, but trout erythroid Ae1 also mediates Cl(-) conductance. Erythroid Ae1 may mediate the DIDS-sensitive Cl(-) conductance of mammalian erythrocytes, and, with a single missense mutation, can mediate electrogenic SO(4)(2-)/Cl(-) exchange. AE1 trafficking in polarized cells is regulated by phosphorylation and by interaction with other proteins. AE2 exhibits isoform-specific patterns of acute inhibition by acidic intracellular pH and independently by acidic extracellular pH. In contrast, AE2 is activated by hypertonicity and, in a pH-independent manner, by ammonium and by hypertonicity. A growing body of structure-function and interaction data, together with emerging information about physiological function and structure, is advancing our understanding of SLC4 anion exchangers.

Oligomeric structure of the human reduced folate carrier: identification of homo-oligomers and dominant-negative effects on carrier expression and function

The ubiquitously expressed reduced folate carrier (RFC) is the major transport system for folate cofactors in mammalian cells and tissues. Previous considerations of RFC structure and mechanism were based on the notion that RFC monomers were sufficient to mediate transport of folate and antifolate substrates. The present study examines the possibility that human RFC (hRFC) exists as higher order homo-oligomers. By chemical cross-linking, transiently expressed hRFC in hRFC-null HeLa (R5) cells with the homobifunctional cross-linker 1,3-propanediyl bis-methanethiosulfonate and Western blotting, hRFC species with molecular masses of hRFC homo-oligomers were identified. Hemagglutinin- and Myc epitope-tagged hRFC proteins expressed in R5 cells were co-immunoprecipitated from both membrane particulate and surface-enriched membrane fractions, indicating that oligomeric hRFC is expressed at the cell surface. By co-expression of wild type and inactive mutant S138C hRFCs, combined with surface biotinylation and confocal microscopy, a dominant-negative phenotype was demonstrated involving greatly decreased cell surface expression of both mutant and wild type carrier caused by impaired intracellular trafficking. For another hRFC mutant (R373A), expression of oligomeric wild type-mutant hRFC was accompanied by a significant and disproportionate loss of wild type activity unrelated to the level of surface carrier. Collectively, our results demonstrate the existence of hRFC homo-oligomers. They also establish the likely importance of these higher order hRFC structures to intracellular trafficking and carrier function.

Enhanced formation of a HCO3- transport metabolon in exocrine cells of Nhe1-/- mice

Cl(-) influx across the basolateral membrane is a limiting step in fluid production in exocrine cells and often involves functionally linked Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) (Ae) and Na(+)/H(+) (Nhe) exchange mechanisms. The dependence of this major Cl(-) uptake pathway on Na(+)/H(+) exchanger expression was examined in the parotid acinar cells of Nhe1(-/-) and Nhe2(-/-) mice, both of which exhibited impaired fluid secretion. No change in Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger activity was detected in Nhe2-deficient mice. Conversely, Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger activity increased nearly 4-fold in Nhe1-deficient mice, despite only minimal or any change in mRNA and protein levels of the anion exchanger Ae2. Acetazolamide completely blocked the increase in Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger activity in Nhe1-null mice suggesting that increased anion exchange required carbonic anhydrase activity. Indeed, the parotid glands of Nhe1(-/-) mice expressed higher levels of carbonic anhydrase 2 (Car2) polypeptide. Moreover, the enhanced Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange activity was accompanied by an increased abundance of Car2.Ae2 complexes in the parotid plasma membranes of Nhe1(-/-) mice. Anion exchanger activity was also significantly reduced in Car2-deficient mice, consistent with an important role of a putative Car2.Ae2 HCO(3)(-) transport metabolon in parotid exocrine cell function. Increased abundance of this HCO(3)(-) transport metabolon is likely one of the multiple compensatory changes in the exocrine parotid gland of Nhe1(-/-) mice that together attenuate the severity of in vivo electrolyte and acid-base balance perturbations.

Acute regulation of mouse AE2 anion exchanger requires isoform-specific amino acid residues from most of the transmembrane domain

The widely expressed anion exchanger polypeptide AE2/SLC4A2 is acutely inhibited by acidic intracellular (pH(i)), by acidic extracellular pH (pH(o)), and by the calmodulin inhibitor, calmidazolium, whereas it is acutely activated by NH(4)(+). The homologous erythroid/kidney AE1/SLC4A1 polypeptide is insensitive to these regulators. Each of these AE2 regulatory responses requires the presence of AE2's C-terminal transmembrane domain (TMD). We have now measured (36)Cl(-) efflux from Xenopus oocytes expressing bi- or tripartite AE2-AE1 chimeras to define TMD subregions in which AE2-specific sequences contribute to acute regulation. The chimeric AE polypeptides were all functional at pH(o) 7.4, with the sole exception of AE2((1-920))/AE1((613-811))/AE2((1120-1237)). Reciprocal exchanges of the large third extracellular loops were without effect. AE2 regulation by pH(i), pH(o) and NH(4)(+) was retained after substitution of C-terminal AE2 amino acids 1120-1237 (including the putative second re-entrant loop, two TM spans and the cytoplasmic tail) with the corresponding AE1 sequence. In contrast, the presence of this AE2 C-terminal sequence was both necessary and sufficient for inhibition by calmidazolium. All other tested TMD substitutions abolished AE2 pH(i) sensitivity, abolished or severely attenuated sensitivity to pH(o) and removed sensitivity to NH(4)(+). Loss of AE2 pH(i) sensitivity was not rescued by co-expression of a complementary AE2 sequence within separate full-length chimeras or AE2 subdomains. Thus, normal regulation of AE2 by pH and other ligands requires AE2-specific sequence from most regions of the AE2 TMD, with the exceptions of the third extracellular loop and a short C-terminal sequence. We conclude that the individual TMD amino acid residues previously identified as influencing acute regulation of AE2 exert that influence within a regulatory structure requiring essential contributions from multiple regions of the AE2 TMD.

Distal renal tubular acidosis in mice lacking the AE1 (band3) Cl-/HCO3- exchanger (slc4a1)

Mutations in the human gene that encodes the AE1 Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger (SLC4A1) cause autosomal recessive and dominant forms of distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA). A mouse model that lacks AE1/slc4a1 (slc4a1-/-) exhibited dRTA characterized by spontaneous hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis with low net acid excretion and, inappropriately, alkaline urine without bicarbonaturia. Basolateral Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange activity in acid-secretory intercalated cells of isolated superfused slc4a1-/- medullary collecting duct was reduced, but alternate bicarbonate transport pathways were upregulated. Homozygous mice had nephrocalcinosis associated with hypercalciuria, hyperphosphaturia, and hypocitraturia. A severe urinary concentration defect in slc4a1-/- mice was accompanied by dysregulated expression and localization of the aquaporin-2 water channel. Mice that were heterozygous for the AE1-deficient allele had no apparent defect. Thus, the slc4a1-/- mouse is the first genetic model of complete dRTA and demonstrates that the AE1/slc4a1 Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchanger is required for maintenance of normal acid-base homeostasis by distal renal regeneration of bicarbonate in the mouse as well as in humans.

Membrane-bound carbonic anhydrases in osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are multinucleated bone-resorbing cells that use multiple pH regulation mechanisms to create an acidic pH in the resorption lacuna. Carbonic anhydrase II and vacuolar H(+)-ATPases produce and transport protons, while chloride channels provide a Cl(-) flux into the resorption site. These activities are required for inorganic matrix dissolution that precedes enzymatic removal of organic bone matrix. In other cell types it has become evident that carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes interact with AE proteins to form transport metabolons that regulate intracellular pH. Membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes may also compensate for the lack of cytoplasmic carbonic anhydrase II. Therefore, our goal was to explore the expression of membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase (CA) isoenzymes CA IV, CA IX, CA XII and CA XIV in bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy showed expression of CA IV, CA XII and CA XIV in cultured rat and human osteoclasts. To confirm these results, RT-PCR was used. Immunohistochemistry revealed distinct staining patterns for CA IV, CA XII and CA XIV in rat trabecular bone specimens. A plasma membrane staining was observed in bone lining cells with the CA XII antibody while osteoclast plasma membranes were stained with CA IV and CA XIV antibodies. Confocal microscopy of cultured human osteoclasts showed a punctated intracellular CA IV staining and a perinuclear CA XIV staining while no CA IX or CA XII staining was observed. To evaluate the physiological role of membrane-bound CAs in osteoclasts, we used PCS, a novel membrane-impermeable CA inhibitor. Increased osteoclast number and bone resorption activity was observed in rat osteoclast cultures exposed to a low concentration of PCS while higher concentrations affected cell survival. PCS treatment also disturbed intracellular acidification in osteoclasts, as determined by live cell microscopy. In conclusion, our data shows that membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes CA IV and CA XIV are expressed both at mRNA and protein levels in osteoclasts in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the inhibitor experiments provide novel evidence to support the hypothesis that intracellular pH regulation in osteoclasts may indeed involve transport metabolons.

SLC4 base (HCO3 -, CO3 2-) transporters: classification, function, structure, genetic diseases, and knockout models

In prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, biochemical and physiological processes are sensitive to changes in H(+) activity. For these processes to function optimally, a variety of proteins have evolved that transport H(+)/base equivalents across cell and organelle membranes, thereby maintaining the pH of various intracellular and extracellular compartments within specific limits. The SLC4 family of base (HCO(3)(-), CO(3)(2(-))) transport proteins plays an essential role in mediating Na(+)- and/or Cl(-)-dependent base transport in various tissues and cell types in mammals. In addition to pH regulation, specific members of this family also contribute to vectorial transepithelial base transport in several organ systems including the kidney, pancreas, and eye. The importance of these transporters in mammalian cell biology is highlighted by the phenotypic abnormalities resulting from spontaneous SLC4 mutations in humans and targeted deletions in murine knockout models. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the molecular organization and functional properties of SLC4 transporters and their role in disease.

Characterization of H+ and HCO3- transporters in CFPAC-1 human pancreatic duct cells

AIM: To characterize H⁺ and HCO₃^- transporters in polarized CFPAC-1 human pancreatic duct cells, which were derived from a cystic fibrosis patient with the ΔF508 CFTR mutation.

METHODS: CFPAC-1 cells were seeded at high density onto permeable supports and grown to confluence. The cells were loaded with the pH-sensitive fluorescent dye BCECF, and mounted into a perfusion chamber, which allowed the simultaneous perfusion of the basolateral and apical membranes. Transmembrane base flux was calculated from the changes in intracellular pH and the buffering capacity of the cells.

RESULTS: Our results showed differential permeability to HCO₃^-/CO₂ at the apical and basolateral membranes of CFPAC-1 cells. Na⁺/HCO₃^- co-transporters (NBCs) and Cl^-/HCO₃^- exchangers (AEs) were present on the basolateral membrane, and Na⁺/H⁺ exchangers (NHEs) on both the apical and basolateral membranes of the cells. Basolateral HCO₃^- uptake was sensitive to variations of extracellular K⁺ concentration, the membrane permeable carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors acetazolamide (100 µmol/L) and ethoxyzolamide (100 µmol/L), and was partially inhibited by H₂-DIDS (600 µmol/L). The membrane-impermeable CA inhibitor 1-N-(4-sulfamoylphenylethyl)-2,4,6-trimethylpyridine perchlorate did not have any effect on HCO₃^- uptake. The basolateral AE had a much higher activity than that in the apical membrane, whereas there was no such difference with the NHE under resting conditions. Also, 10 µmol/L forskolin did not significantly influence Cl^-/HCO₃^- exchange on the apical and basolateral membranes. The administration of 250 µmol/L H₂-DIDS significantly inhibited the basolateral AE. Amiloride (300 µmol/L) completely inhibited NHEs on both membranes of the cells. RT-PCR revealed the expression of pNBC1, AE2, and NHE1 mRNA.

CONCLUSION: These data suggest that apart from the lack of CFTR and apical Cl^-/HCO₃^- exchanger activity, CFPAC-1 cells express similar H⁺ and HCO₃^- transporters to those observed in native animal tissue.

Molecular physiology of SLC4 anion exchangers

Plasmalemmal Cl- -HCO3- exchangers regulate intracellular pH and [Cl-] and cell volume. In polarized epithelial cells, they contribute also to transepithelial secretion and reabsorption of acid-base equivalents and of Cl-. Members of both the SLC4 and SLC26 mammalian gene families encode Na+-independent Cl- -HCO3- exchangers. Human SLC4A1/AE1 mutations cause either the erythroid disorders spherocytic haemolytic anaemia or ovalocytosis, or distal renal tubular acidosis. SLC4A2/AE2 knockout mice die at weaning. Human SLC4A3/AE3 polymorphisms have been associated with seizure disorder. Although mammalian SLC4/AE polypeptides mediate only electroneutral Cl- -anion exchange, trout erythroid AE1 also promotes osmolyte transport and increased anion conductance. Mouse AE1 is required for DIDS-sensitive erythroid Cl- conductance, but definitive evidence for mediation of Cl- conductance is lacking. However, a single missense mutation allows AE1 to mediate both electrogenic SO4(2-) -Cl- exchange or electroneutral, H+-independent SO4(2)- -SO4(2-) exchange. In the Xenopus oocyte, the AE1 C-terminal cytoplasmic tail residues reported to bind carbonic anhydrase II are dispensable for Cl- -Cl- exchange, but required for Cl- -HCO3- exchange. AE2 is acutely and independently inhibited by intracellular and extracellular H+, and this regulation requires integrity of the most highly conserved sequence of the AE2 N-terminal cytoplasmic domain. Individual missense mutations within this and adjacent regions identify additional residues which acid-shift pHo sensitivity. These regions together are modelled to form contiguous surface patches on the AE2 cytoplasmic domain. In contrast, the N-terminal variant AE2c polypeptide exhibits an alkaline-shifted pHo sensitivity, as do certain transmembrane domain His mutants. AE2-mediated anion exchange is also stimulated by ammonium and by hypertonicity by a mechanism sensitive to inhibition by chelation of intracellular Ca2+ and by calmidazolium. This growing body of structure-function data, together with increased structural information, will advance mechanistic understanding of SLC4 anion exchangers.

Functional interactions between the subunits of the lactose transporter from Streptococcus thermophilus

Although the quaternary state has been assessed in detail for only a few members of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS), it is clear that multiple oligomeric states are represented within the MFS. One of its members, the lactose transporter LacS from Streptococcus thermophilus assumes a dimeric structure in the membrane and in vitro analysis showed functional interactions between both subunits when proton motive force ((Delta)p)-driven transport was assayed. To study the interactions in further detail, a covalent dimer was constructed consisting of in tandem fused LacS subunits. These covalent dimers, composed of active and completely inactive subunits, were expressed in Escherichia coli, and initial rates of (Delta)p-driven lactose uptake and lactose counterflow were determined. We now show that also in vivo, both subunits interact functionally; that is, partial complementation of the inactive subunit was observed for both transport modes. Thus, both subunits interact functionally in (Delta)p-driven uptake and in counterflow transport. In addition, analysis of in tandem fused LacS subunits containing one regulatory LacS-IIA domain showed that regulation is primarily an intramolecular event.

Metabolon disruption: a mechanism that regulates bicarbonate transport

Carbonic anhydrases (CA) catalyze the reversible conversion of CO2 to HCO3-. Some bicarbonate transporters bind CA, forming a complex called a transport metabolon, to maximize the coupled catalytic/transport flux. SLC26A6, a plasma membrane Cl-/HCO3- exchanger with a suggested role in pancreatic HCO3- secretion, was found to bind the cytoplasmic enzyme CAII. Mutation of the identified CAII binding (CAB) site greatly reduced SLC26A6 activity, demonstrating the importance of the interaction. Regulation of SLC26A6 bicarbonate transport by protein kinase C (PKC) was investigated. Angiotensin II (AngII), which activates PKC, decreased Cl-/HCO3- exchange in cells coexpressing SLC26A6 and AT1a-AngII receptor. Activation of PKC reduced SLC26A6/CAII association in immunoprecipitates. Similarly, PKC activation displaced CAII from the plasma membrane, as monitored by immunofluorescence. Finally, mutation of a PKC site adjacent to the SLC26A6 CAB site rendered the transporter unresponsive to PKC. PKC therefore reduces CAII/SLC26A6 interaction, reducing bicarbonate transport rate. Taken together, our data support a mechanism for acute regulation of membrane transport: metabolon disruption.

The abts and sulp families of anion transporters from Caenorhabditis elegans

The slc4 and slc26 gene families encode two distinct groups of gene products that transport HCO(3)(-) and other anions in mammalian cells. The SLC4 and SLC26 proteins are important contributors to transepithelial movement of fluids and electrolytes and to cellular pH and volume regulation. Herein we describe the cDNA cloning from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans of four anion bicarbonate transporter (abts) homologs of slc4 cDNA and eight sulfate permease (sulp) homologs of slc26 cDNA. Analysis of transgenic nematode strains carrying promoter::GFP fusions suggests relatively restricted expression patterns for many of these genes. At least three genes are expressed primarily in the intestine, three are expressed primarily in the excretory cell, and one is expressed in both of these polarized cell types. One of the genes is also expressed exclusively in the myoepithelium-like cells of the pharynx. Many of the sulp gene products localize to the basolateral membrane rather than to the apical membrane. Several ABTS and SULP proteins exhibited anion transport function in Xenopus oocytes. The strongest Cl(-) transporter among these also mediated Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) exchange. These findings encourage exploitation of the genetic strengths of the nematode model system in the study of the physiological roles of anion transport by the proteins of these two highly conserved gene families.

Slow transitions between two conformational states of band 3 (AE1) modulate divalent anion transport and DBDS binding to a second site on band 3 which is activated by lowering the pH (pK approximately 5.0)

Evidence is emerging which indicates that the anion transport activity of band 3 may be regulated. I review the molecular basis for regulation of the anion transport function of band 3 in terms of evidence showing that divalent anion transport involves a slow "hysteretic" transition between two functional states, mediated by interactions between subunits within band 3 oligomers. In addition, I briefly describe recent work from my laboratory where we have discovered a novel manifestation of slow conformational changes in band 3. This involves 4,4'-dibenzamido-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonate (DBDS) binding to a second, proton-activated site distinct from the primary stilbenedisulfonate site. This site is exposed on the outer aspect of band 3 when the pH is lowered (pK approximately 5.0). This is the same pK as the protonation site on band 3 involved in divalent anion-proton co-transport (APCT) [J. Gen. Physiol. 79 (1982) 87]. Significantly, we have found that DBDS binding to this proton-activated site has unusually slow kinetics, and increasing DBDS concentration causes a decrease in the apparent pseudo-first-order rate constant. These results suggest that a slow conformational pre-equilibrium is the rate limiting step in DBDS binding to the proton-activated site on band 3 observed at low pH. Our results support an allosteric two-state model for regulation of divalent anion transport by band 3 oligomers involving a slow conformational transition and interactions between subunits [Biochemistry 31 (1992) 7301].

Molecular mechanism of kNBC1-carbonic anhydrase II interaction in proximal tubule cells

We have recently shown that carbonic anhydrase II (CAII) binds in vitro to the C-terminus of the electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter kNBC1 (kNBC1-ct). In the present study we determined the molecular mechanisms for the interaction between the two proteins and whether kNBC1 and CAII form a transport metabolon in vivo wherein bicarbonate is transferred from CAII directly to the cotransporter. Various residues in the C-terminus of kNBC1 were mutated and the effect of these mutations on both the magnitude of CAII binding and the function of kNBC1 expressed in mPCT cells was determined. Two clusters of acidic amino acids, L(958)DDV and D(986)NDD in the wild-type kNBC1-ct involved in CAII binding were identified. In both acidic clusters, the first aspartate residue played a more important role in CAII binding than others. A significant correlation between the magnitude of CAII binding and kNBC1-mediated flux was shown. The results indicated that CAII activity enhances flux through the cotransporter when the enzyme is bound to kNBC1. These data are the first direct evidence that a complex of an electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter with CAII functions as a transport metabolon.