Superoxide anions are involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on c-Src expression and renal K secretion in the cortical collecting duct

GDF15, an Emerging Player in Renal Physiology and Pathophysiology

These last years, the growth factor GDF15 has emerged as a key element in many different biological processes. It has been established as being produced in response to many pathological states and is now referred to as a stress-related hormone. Regarding kidney functions, GDF15 has been involved in different pathologies such as chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, renal cancer, and so on. Interestingly, recent studies also revealed a role of GDF15 in the renal homeostatic mechanisms allowing to maintain constant, as far as possible, the plasma parameters such as pH and K+ values. In this review, we recapitulate the role of GDF15 in physiological and pathological context by focusing our interest on its renal effect.

Angiotensin II acts through Rac1 to upregulate pendrin: role of NADPH oxidase

Angiotensin II increases apical plasma membrane pendrin abundance and function. This study explored the role of the small GTPase Rac1 in the regulation of pendrin by angiotensin II. To do this, we generated intercalated cell (IC) Rac1 knockout mice and observed that IC Rac1 gene ablation reduced the relative abundance of pendrin in the apical region of intercalated cells in angiotensin II-treated mice but not vehicle-treated mice. Similarly, the Rac1 inhibitor EHT 1864 reduced apical pendrin abundance in angiotensin II-treated mice, through a mechanism that does not require aldosterone. This IC angiotensin II-Rac1 signaling cascade modulates pendrin subcellular distribution without significantly changing actin organization. However, NADPH oxidase inhibition with APX 115 reduced apical pendrin abundance in vivo in angiotensin II-treated mice. Moreover, superoxide dismutase mimetics reduced Cl- absorption in angiotensin II-treated cortical collecting ducts perfused in vitro. Since Rac1 is an NADPH subunit, Rac1 may modulate pendrin through NADPH oxidase-mediated reactive oxygen species production. Because pendrin gene ablation blunts the pressor response to angiotensin II, we asked if pendrin blunts the angiotensin II-induced increase in kidney superoxide. Although kidney superoxide was similar in vehicle-treated wild-type and pendrin knockout mice, it was lower in angiotensin II-treated pendrin-null kidneys than in wild-type kidneys. We conclude that angiotensin II acts through Rac1, independently of aldosterone, to increase apical pendrin abundance. Rac1 may stimulate pendrin, at least partly, through NADPH oxidase. This increase in pendrin abundance contributes to the increment in blood pressure and kidney superoxide content seen in angiotensin II-treated mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study defines a new signaling mechanism by which angiotensin II modulates oxidative stress and blood pressure.

Kir4.2 mediates proximal potassium effects on glutaminase activity and kidney injury

Inadequate potassium (K+) consumption correlates with increased mortality and poor cardiovascular outcomes. Potassium effects on blood pressure have been described previously; however, whether or not low K+ independently affects kidney disease progression remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that dietary K+ deficiency causes direct kidney injury. Effects depend on reduced blood K+ and are kidney specific. In response to reduced K+, the channel Kir4.2 mediates altered proximal tubule (PT) basolateral K+ flux, causing intracellular acidosis and activation of the enzyme glutaminase and the ammoniagenesis pathway. Deletion of either Kir4.2 or glutaminase protects from low-K+ injury. Reduced K+ also mediates injury and fibrosis in a model of aldosteronism. These results demonstrate that the PT epithelium, like the distal nephron, is K+ sensitive, with reduced blood K+ causing direct PT injury. Kir4.2 and glutaminase are essential mediators of this injury process, and we identify their potential for future targeting in the treatment of chronic kidney disease.

Renal potassium physiology: integration of the renal response to dietary potassium depletion

We summarize the current understanding of the physiology of the renal handling of potassium (K⁺), and present an integrative view of the renal response to K⁺ depletion caused by dietary K⁺ restriction. This renal response involves contributions from different nephron segments, and aims to diminish the rate of excretion of K⁺ as a result of: decreasing the rate of electrogenic (and increasing the rate of electroneutral) reabsorption of sodium in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron (ASDN), decreasing the abundance of renal outer medullary K⁺ channels in the luminal membrane of principal cells in the ASDN, decreasing the flow rate in the ASDN, and increasing the reabsorption of K⁺ in the cortical and medullary collecting ducts. The implications of this physiology for the association between K⁺ depletion and hypertension, and K⁺ depletion and formation of calcium kidney stones are discussed.

(Pro)renin receptor activation increases profibrotic markers and fibroblast-like phenotype through MAPK-dependent ROS formation in mouse renal collecting duct cells

Recent studies suggested that activation of the PRR upregulates profibrotic markers through reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation; however, the exact mechanisms have not been investigated in CD cells. We hypothesized that activation of the PRR increases the expression of profibrotic markers through MAPK-dependent ROS formation in CD cells. Mouse renal CD cell line (M-1) was treated with recombinant prorenin plus ROS or MAPK inhibitors and PRR-shRNA to evaluate their effect on the expression of profibrotic markers. PRR immunostaining revealed plasma membrane and intracellular localization. Recombinant prorenin increases ROS formation (6.0 ± 0.5 vs 3.9 ± 0.1 nmol/L DCF/μg total protein, P < .05) and expression of profibrotic markers CTGF (149 ± 12%, P < .05), α-SMA (160 ± 20%, P < .05), and PAI-I (153 ± 13%, P < .05) at 10^-8  mol/L. Recombinant prorenin-induced phospho ERK 1/2 (p44 and p42) at 10^-8 and 10^-6  mol/L after 20 minutes. Prorenin-dependent ROS formation and augmentation of profibrotic factors were blunted by ROS scavengers (trolox, p-coumaric acid, ascorbic acid), the MEK inhibitor PD98059 and PRR transfections with PRR-shRNA. No effects were observed in the presence of antioxidants alone. Prorenin-induced upregulation of collagen I and fibronectin was blunted by ROS scavenging or MEK inhibition independently. PRR-shRNA partially prevented this induction. After 24 hours prorenin treatment M-1 cells undergo to epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype, however MEK inhibitor PD98059 and PRR knockdown prevented this effect. These results suggest that PRR might have a significant role in tubular damage during conditions of high prorenin-renin secretion in the CD.

PGF2α regulates the basolateral K channels in the distal convoluted tubule

Our aim is to examine the role of PGF_2α receptor (FP), a highly expressed prostaglandin receptor in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) in regulating the basolateral 40-pS K channel. The single-channel studies demonstrated that PGF_2α had a biphasic effect on the 40-pS K channel in the DCT-PGF_2α stimulated at low concentrations (less than 500 nM), while at high concentrations (above 1 µM), it inhibited the 40-pS K channels. Moreover, neither 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF_2α (a metabolite of PGF_2α) nor PGE₂ was able to mimic the effect of PGF_2α on the 40-pS K channel in the DCT. The inhibition of PKC had no significant effect on the 40-pS K channel; however, it abrogated the inhibitory effect of 5 µM PGF_2α on the K channel. Moreover, stimulation of PKC inhibited the 40-pS K channel in the DCT, suggesting that PKC mediates the inhibitory effect of PGF_2α on the 40-pS K channel. Conversely, the stimulatory effect of PGF_2α on the 40-pS K channel was absent in the DCT treated with DPI, a NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor. Also, adding 100 µM H₂O₂ mimicked the stimulatory effect of PGF_2α and increased the 40-pS K channel activity in DCT. Moreover, the stimulatory effect of 500 nM PGF_2α and H₂O₂ was not additive, suggesting the role of superoxide-related species in mediating the stimulatory effect of PGF_2α on the 40-pS K channel. The inhibition of Src family tyrosine protein kinase (SFK) not only inhibited the 40-pS K channel in the DCT but also completely abolished the stimulatory effects of PGF_2α and H₂O₂ on the 40-pS K channel. We conclude that PGF_2α at low doses stimulates the basolateral 40-pS K channel by a NOX- and SFK-dependent mechanism, while at high concentrations, it inhibits the K channel by a PKC-dependent pathway.

Effects of Reactive Oxygen Species on Tubular Transport along the Nephron

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxygen-containing molecules naturally occurring in both inorganic and biological chemical systems. Due to their high reactivity and potentially damaging effects to biomolecules, cells express a battery of enzymes to rapidly metabolize them to innocuous intermediaries. Initially, ROS were considered by biologists as dangerous byproducts of respiration capable of causing oxidative stress, a condition in which overproduction of ROS leads to a reduction in protective molecules and enzymes and consequent damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. In fact, ROS are used by immune systems to kill virus and bacteria, causing inflammation and local tissue damage. Today, we know that the functions of ROS are not so limited, and that they also act as signaling molecules mediating processes as diverse as gene expression, mechanosensation, and epithelial transport. In the kidney, ROS such as nitric oxide (NO), superoxide (O₂^-), and their derivative molecules hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and peroxynitrite (ONO₂^-) regulate solute and water reabsorption, which is vital to maintain electrolyte homeostasis and extracellular fluid volume. This article reviews the effects of NO, O₂^-, ONO₂^-, and H₂O₂ on water and electrolyte reabsorption in proximal tubules, thick ascending limbs, and collecting ducts, and the effects of NO and O₂^- in the macula densa on tubuloglomerular feedback.

In vivo and ex vivo analysis of tubule function

Analysis of tubule function with in vivo and ex vivo approaches has been instrumental in revealing renal physiology. This work allows assignment of functional significance to known gene products expressed along the nephron, primary of which are proteins involved in electrolyte transport and regulation of these transporters. Not only we have learned much about the key roles played by these transport proteins and their proper regulation in normal physiology but also the combination of contemporary molecular biology and molecular genetics with in vivo and ex vivo analysis opened a new era of discovery informative about the root causes of many renal diseases. The power of in vivo and ex vivo analysis of tubule function is that it preserves the native setting and control of the tubule and proteins within tubule cells enabling them to be investigated in a "real-life" environment with a high degree of precision. In vivo and ex vivo analysis of tubule function continues to provide a powerful experimental outlet for testing, evaluating, and understanding physiology in the context of the novel information provided by sequencing of the human genome and contemporary genetic screening. These tools will continue to be a mainstay in renal laboratories as this discovery process continues and as we continue to identify new gene products functionally compromised in renal disease.

MicroRNA-194 (miR-194) regulates ROMK channel activity by targeting intersectin 1

The aim of the study is to explore the role of miR-194 in mediating the effect of high-K (HK) intake on ROMK channel. Northern blot analysis showed that miR-194 was expressed in kidney and that HK intake increased while low-K intake decreased the expression of miR-194. Real-time PCR analysis further demonstrated that HK intake increased the miR-194 expression in the cortical collecting duct. HK intake decreased the expression of intersectin 1 (ITSN1) which enhanced With-No-Lysine Kinase (WNK)-induced endocytosis of ROMK. Expression of miR-194 mimic decreased luciferase reporter gene activity in HEK293 T cells transfected with ITSN-1-3'UTR containing the complementary seed sequence for miR-194. In contrast, transfection of miR-194 inhibitor increased the luciferase activity. This effect was absent in the cells transfected with mutated 3'UTR of ITSN1 in which the complimentary seed sequence was deleted. Moreover, the inhibition of miR-194 expression increased the protein level of endogenous ITSN1 in HEK293T cells. Expression of miR-194 mimic also decreased the translation of exogenous ITSN1 in the cells transfected with the ITSN1 containing 3'UTR but not with 3'UTR-free ITSN1. Expression of pre-miR-194 increased K currents and ROMK expression in the plasma membrane in ROMK-transfected cells. Coexpression of ITSN1 reversed the stimulatory effect of miR-194 on ROMK channels. This effect was reversed by coexpression of ITSN1. We conclude that miR-194 regulates ROMK channel activity by modulating ITSN1 expression thereby enhancing ITSN1/WNK-dependent endocytosis. It is possible that miR-194 is involved in mediating the effect of a HK intake on ROMK channel activity.

NADPH oxidases, reactive oxygen species, and the kidney: friend and foe

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in normal cellular physiology. They regulate different biologic processes such as cell defense, hormone synthesis and signaling, activation of G protein-coupled receptors, and ion channels and kinases/phosphatases. ROS are also important regulators of transcription factors and gene expression. On the other hand, in pathologic conditions, a surplus of ROS in tissue results in oxidative stress with various injurious consequences such as inflammation and fibrosis. NADPH oxidases are one of the many sources of ROS in biologic systems, and there are seven isoforms (Nox1-5, Duox1, Duox2). Nox4 is the predominant form in the kidney, although Nox2 is also expressed. Nox4 has been implicated in the basal production of ROS in the kidney and in pathologic conditions such as diabetic nephropathy and CKD; upregulation of Nox4 may be important in renal oxidative stress and kidney injury. Although there is growing evidence indicating the involvement of NADPH oxidase in renal pathology, there is a paucity of information on the role of NADPH oxidase in the regulation of normal renal function. Here we provide an update on the role of NADPH oxidases and ROS in renal physiology and pathology.

Inhibition of ROMK channels by low extracellular K+ and oxidative stress

We tested the hypothesis that low luminal K⁺ inhibits the activity of ROMK channels in the rat cortical collecting duct. Whole-cell voltage-clamp measurements of the component of outward K⁺ current inhibited by the bee toxin Tertiapin-Q (ISK) showed that reducing the bath concentration ([K⁺]o) to 1 mM resulted in a decline of current over 2 min compared with that observed at 10 mM [K⁺]o. However, maintaining tubules in 1 mM [K⁺]o without establishing whole-cell clamp conditions did not affect ISK. The [K⁺]o-dependent decline was not prevented by increasing cytoplasmic-side pH or by inhibition of phosphatase activity. It was, however, abolished by the inclusion of 0.5 mM DTT in the pipette solution to prevent oxidation of the intracellular environment. Conversely, treatment of intact tubules with the oxidant H₂O₂ (100 μM) decreased ISK in a [K⁺]o-dependent manner. Treatment of the tubules with the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 prevented the effect of low [K⁺]o, suggesting the involvement of this enzyme in the process. We examined these effects further using Xenopus oocytes expressing ROMK2 channels. A 50-min exposure to the permeant oxidizing agent tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP; 500 μM) did not affect outward K⁺ currents with [K⁺]o = 10 mM but reduced currents by 50% with [K⁺]o = 1 mM and by 75% with [K⁺]o = 0.1 mM. Pretreatment of the oocytes with U73122 prevented the effects of t-BHP. Under conditions of low dietary K intake, K⁺ secretion by distal nephron segments may be suppressed by a combination of low luminal [K⁺]o and oxidative stress.

Circadian expression of H,K-ATPase type 2 contributes to the stability of plasma K⁺ levels

Maintenance by the kidney of stable plasma K(+) values is crucial, as plasma K(+) controls muscle and nerve activity. Since renal K(+) excretion is regulated by the circadian clock, we aimed to identify the ion transporters involved in this process. In control mice, the renal mRNA expression of H,K-ATPase type 2 (HKA2) is 25% higher during rest compared to the activity period. Conversely, under dietary K(+) restriction, HKA2 expression is ∼40% higher during the activity period. This reversal suggests that HKA2 contributes to the circadian regulation of K(+) homeostasis. Compared to their wild-type (WT) littermates, HKA2-null mice fed a normal diet have 2-fold higher K(+) renal excretion during rest. Under K(+) restriction, their urinary K(+) loss is 40% higher during the activity period. This inability to excrete K(+) "on time" is reflected in plasma K(+) values, which vary by 12% between activity and rest periods in HKA2-null mice but remain stable in WT mice. Analysis of the circadian expression of HKA2 regulators suggests that Nrf2, but not progesterone, contributes to its rhythmicity. Therefore, HKA2 acts to maintain the circadian rhythm of urinary K(+) excretion and preserve stable plasma K(+) values throughout the day.

MicroRNA 802 stimulates ROMK channels by suppressing caveolin-1

Dietary potassium stimulates the surface expression of ROMK channels in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron, but the mechanism by which this occurs is incompletely understood. Here, a high-potassium diet increased the transcription of microRNA (miR) 802 in the cortical collecting duct in mice. In addition, high-potassium intake decreased the expression of caveolin-1, whose 3' untranslated region contains the seed sequence of miR-802. In vitro, expression of miR-802 suppressed the expression of caveolin-1, and conversely, downregulation of endogenous miR-802 increased the expression of caveolin-1. Sucrose-gradient centrifugation suggested that caveolin-1 closely associated with ROMK channels, and immunoprecipitation showed that caveolin-1 interacted with the N terminus of ROMK. Expression of caveolin-1 varied inversely with the expression of ROMK1 in the plasma membrane, and caveolin-1 inhibited ROMK1 channel activity. Removal of the clathrin-dependent endocytosis motif from ROMK1 failed to abolish the effect of caveolin-1 on ROMK1 channel activity. Last, expression of miR-802 increased ROMK1 channel activity, an effect blocked by coexpression of caveolin-1. Taken together, miR-802 mediates the stimulatory effect of a high-potassium diet on ROMK channel activity by suppressing caveolin-1 expression, which leads to increased surface expression of ROMK channels in the distal nephron.

NAD(P)H oxidase and renal epithelial ion transport

A fundamental requirement for cellular vitality is the maintenance of plasma ion concentration within strict ranges. It is the function of the kidney to match urinary excretion of ions with daily ion intake and nonrenal losses to maintain a stable ionic milieu. NADPH oxidase is a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within many cell types, including the transporting renal epithelia. The focus of this review is to describe the role of NADPH oxidase-derived ROS toward local renal tubular ion transport in each nephron segment and to discuss how NADPH oxidase-derived ROS signaling within the nephron may mediate ion homeostasis. In each case, we will attempt to identify the various subunits of NADPH oxidase and reactive oxygen species involved and the ion transporters, which these affect. We will first review the role of NADPH oxidase on renal Na(+) and K(+) transport. Finally, we will review the relationship between tubular H(+) efflux and NADPH oxidase activity.

Decrease in dietary K intake stimulates the generation of superoxide anions in the kidney and inhibits K secretory channels in the CCD

We previously demonstrated that K depletion inhibited ROMK-like small-conductance K channels (SK) in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) and that the effect was mediated by superoxide anions that stimulated Src family protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) (51). However, because animals on a K-deficient diet had a severe hypokalemia, superoxide-dependent signaling may not regulate ROMK channels under physiological conditions with a normal plasma K concentration. In the present study, we used the patch-clamp technique and Western blot to examine the effect of a moderate K restriction on ROMK-like SK channels and the role of PTK and MAPK in regulating apical K channels in the CCD of animals on a low-K diet (LK; 0.1% K). Rats and mice fed a LK diet for 7 days had a normal plasma K concentration. However, a LK intake increased the expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor in the kidney. Moreover, patch-clamp experiments demonstrated that LK intake decreased the probability finding SK channels and channel activity defined by NP(o) (a product of channel number and open probability) in the CCD of both rat and mouse kidneys. Also, LK intake significantly stimulated the production of superoxide anions in the renal cortex and outer medulla in both rats and mice and increased superoxide level in the rat CCD. Moreover, LK intake augments the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK MAPK, the expression of c-Src and tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK channels. However, treatment of animals with tempol abolished the effect of LK intake on MAPK and c-Src and increased ROMK channel activity in comparing with those of nontreated rats on a LK diet. Inhibiting p38 and ERK with SB202190 and PD98059 significantly stimulated SK in the CCD in rats on a LK diet. In addition, inhibition of PTK with herbimycin A activated SK channels in the CCD from rats on a LK diet. We conclude that LK intake stimulates the generation of superoxide anion and related products and that MAPK and Src family PTK play a physiological role in inhibiting apical K channels in the principal cells in response to LK intake.

Recent advances in understanding integrative control of potassium homeostasis

The potassium homeostatic system is very tightly regulated. Recent studies have shed light on the sensing and molecular mechanisms responsible for this tight control. In addition to classic feedback regulation mediated by a rise in extracellular fluid (ECF) [K(+)], there is evidence for a feedforward mechanism: Dietary K(+) intake is sensed in the gut, and an unidentified gut factor is activated to stimulate renal K(+) excretion. This pathway may explain renal and extrarenal responses to altered K(+) intake that occur independently of changes in ECF [K(+)]. Mechanisms for conserving ECF K(+) during fasting or K(+) deprivation have been described: Kidney NADPH oxidase activation initiates a cascade that provokes the retraction of K(+) channels from the cell membrane, and muscle becomes resistant to insulin stimulation of cellular K(+) uptake. How these mechanisms are triggered by K(+) deprivation remains unclear. Cellular AMP kinase-dependent protein kinase activity provokes the acute transfer of K(+) from the ECF to the ICF, which may be important in exercise or ischemia. These recent advances may shed light on the beneficial effects of a high-K(+) diet for the cardiovascular system.

POSH stimulates the ubiquitination and the clathrin-independent endocytosis of ROMK1 channels

POSH (plenty of SH3) is a scaffold protein that has been shown to act as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. Here we report that POSH stimulates the ubiquitination of Kir1.1 (ROMK) and enhances the internalization of this potassium channel. Immunostaining reveals the expression of POSH in the renal cortical collecting duct. Immunoprecipitation of renal tissue lysate with ROMK antibody and glutathione S-transferase pulldown experiments demonstrated the association between ROMK and POSH. Moreover, immunoprecipitation of lysates of HEK293T cells transfected with ROMK1 or with constructs encoding the ROMK-N terminus or ROMK1-C-Terminus demonstrated that POSH binds to ROMK1 on its N terminus. To study the effect of POSH on ROMK1 channels, we measured potassium currents with electrophysiological methods in HEK293T cells and in oocytes transfected or injected with ROMK1 and POSH. POSH decreased potassium currents, and the inhibitory effect of POSH on ROMK channels was dose-dependent. Biotinylation assay further showed that POSH decreased surface expression of ROMK channels in HEK293T cells transfected with ROMK1 and POSH. The effect of POSH on ROMK1 channels was specific because POSH did not inhibit sodium current in oocytes injected with ENaC-alpha, beta, and gamma subunits. Moreover, POSH still decreased the potassium current in oocytes injected with a ROMK1 mutant (R1Delta373-378), in which a clathrin-dependent tyrosine-based internalization signal residing between amino acid residues 373 and 378 is deleted. However, the inhibitory effect of POSH on ROMK channels was absent in cells expressing with dominant negative dynamin and POSHDeltaRING, in which the RING domain was deleted. Expression of POSH also increased the ubiquitination of ROMK1, whereas expression of POSHDeltaRING diminished its ubiquitination in HEK293T cells. The notion that POSH may serve as an E3 ubiquitin ligase is also supported by in vitro ubiquitination assays in which adding POSH increased the ROMK ubiquitination. We conclude that POSH inhibits ROMK channels by enhancing dynamin-dependent and clathrin-independent endocytosis and by stimulating ubiquitination of ROMK channels.

Chemistry and antihypertensive effects of tempol and other nitroxides

Nitroxides can undergo one- or two-electron reduction reactions to hydroxylamines or oxammonium cations, respectively, which themselves are interconvertible, thereby providing redox metabolic actions. 4-Hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxyl (tempol) is the most extensively studied nitroxide. It is a cell membrane-permeable amphilite that dismutates superoxide catalytically, facilitates hydrogen peroxide metabolism by catalase-like actions, and limits formation of toxic hydroxyl radicals produced by Fenton reactions. It is broadly effective in detoxifying these reactive oxygen species in cell and animal studies. When administered intravenously to hypertensive rodent models, tempol caused rapid and reversible dose-dependent reductions in blood pressure in 22 of 26 studies. This was accompanied by vasodilation, increased nitric oxide activity, reduced sympathetic nervous system activity at central and peripheral sites, and enhanced potassium channel conductance in blood vessels and neurons. When administered orally or by infusion over days or weeks to hypertensive rodent models, it reduced blood pressure in 59 of 68 studies. This was accompanied by correction of salt sensitivity and endothelial dysfunction and reduced agonist-evoked oxidative stress and contractility of blood vessels, reduced renal vascular resistance, and increased renal tissue oxygen tension. Thus, tempol is broadly effective in reducing blood pressure, whether given by acute intravenous injection or by prolonged administration, in a wide range of rodent models of hypertension.

Inhibition of angiotensin type 1 receptor impairs renal ability of K conservation in response to K restriction

We have previously demonstrated that ANG II inhibits ROMK-like small-conductance K channels (SK) in the cortical collecting duct from rats on a K-deficient diet (KD) (35). In the present study, we examined the role of angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT(1)R) in mediating the effect of K restriction on K secretion. We confirmed the previous finding that K restriction increased the superoxide anion level, c-Src expression, and the phosphorylation of both p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in renal cortex and outer medulla. However, the effect of K restriction on superoxide anion generation, c-Src expression, and MAPK phosphorylation was significantly attenuated in rats receiving losartan, an inhibitor of AT(1)R. In contrast, losartan treatment had no effect on superoxide anion level, c-Src expression, and MAPK phosphorylation in animals on a normal K diet (NK). K restriction decreased SK channel activity and increased the tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK. However, inhibiting AT(1)R abolished the effect of K restriction on SK channels and tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK channels. The notion that AT(1)R is involved in regulating renal K excretion was also supported by the experiments with metabolic cages showing that losartan treatment significantly enhanced urinary K loss in rats on a KD diet while it had no effect in animals on a NK diet. Consequently, losartan-treated animals had severe hypokalemia in response to K restriction compared with rats without losartan intake. We conclude that AT(1)R is involved in mediating the effect of K restriction on superoxide generation, c-Src, and MAPK and that inhibiting AT(1)R impairs renal ability of K conservation in response to K depletion.

K restriction inhibits protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B) and suppression of PP2B decreases ROMK channel activity in the CCD

We used Western blot analysis to examine the effect of dietary K intake on the expression of serine/threonine protein phosphatase in the kidney. K restriction significantly decreased the expression of catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase (PP)2B but increased the expression of PP2B regulatory subunit in both rat and mouse kidney. However, K depletion did not affect the expression of PP1 and PP2A. Treatment of M-1 cells, mouse cortical collecting duct (CCD) cells, or 293T cells with glucose oxidase (GO), which generates superoxide anions through glucose metabolism, mimicked the effect of K restriction on PP2B expression and significantly decreased expression of PP2B catalytic subunits. However, GO treatment increased expression of regulatory subunit of PP2B and had no effect on expression of PP1, PP2A, and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1D. Moreover, deletion of gp91-containing NADPH oxidase abolished the effect of K depletion on PP2B. Thus superoxide anions or related products may mediate the inhibitory effect of K restriction on the expression of PP2B catalytic subunit. We also used patch-clamp technique to study the effect of inhibiting PP2B on renal outer medullary K (ROMK) channels in the CCD. Application of cyclosporin A or FK506, inhibitors of PP2B, significantly decreased ROMK channels, and the effect of PP2B inhibitors was abolished by blocking p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and ERK. Furthermore, Western blot demonstrated that inhibition of PP2B with cyclosporin A or small interfering RNA increased the phosphorylation of ERK and p38 MAPK. We conclude that K restriction suppresses the expression of PP2B catalytic subunits and that inhibition of PP2B decreases ROMK channel activity through stimulation of MAPK in the CCD.

Na+ and K+ transport by the renal connecting tubule

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The connecting tubule is emerging as a nephron segment critical to the regulation of Na+ and K+ excretion and the maintenance of homeostasis for these ions. The segment is difficult to study, however, and much of the available information we have concerning its functions is indirect. Here, we review the major transport mechanisms and transporters found in this segment and outline several unsolved problems in the field.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent electrophysiological and immunohistochemical measurements together with theoretical studies provide a more comprehensive view of ion transport in the connecting tubule. New signaling pathways governing Na+ and K+ transport have also been described.

SUMMARY

Key questions about how Na+ and K+ transport are regulated remain unanswered. Is the connecting tubule the site of final regulation of both Na+ and K+ excretion? If so, how are the transport rates of these two ions independently controlled?

Role of gp91phox -containing NADPH oxidase in mediating the effect of K restriction on ROMK channels and renal K excretion

Previous study has demonstrated that superoxide and the related products are involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on renal K secretion and ROMK channel activity in the cortical collecting duct (CCD). This study investigated the role of gp91(phox)-containing NADPH oxidase (NOXII) in mediating the effect of low K intake on renal K excretion and ROMK channel activity in gp91(-/-) mice. K depletion increased superoxide levels, phosphorylation of c-Jun, expression of c-Src, and tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK in renal cortex and outer medulla in wild-type (WT) mice. In contrast, tempol treatment in WT mice abolished whereas deletion of gp91 significantly attenuated the effect of low K intake on superoxide production, c-Jun phosphorylation, c-Src expression, and tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK. Patch-clamp experiments demonstrated that low K intake decreased mean product of channel number (N) and open probability (P) (NP(o)) of ROMK channels from 1.1 to 0.4 in the CCD. However, the effect of low K intake on ROMK channel activity was significantly attenuated in the CCD from gp91(-/-) mice and completely abolished by tempol treatment. Immunocytochemical staining also was used to examine the ROMK distribution in WT, gp91(-/-), and WT mice with tempol treatment in response to K restriction. K restriction decreased apical staining of ROMK in WT mice. In contrast, a sharp apical ROMK staining was observed in the tempol-treated WT or gp91(-/-) mice. Metabolic cage study further showed that urinary K loss is significantly higher in gp91(-/-) mice than in WT mice. It is concluded that superoxide anions play a key role in suppressing K secretion during K restriction and that NOXII is involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on renal K secretion and ROMK channel activity.

Renal and extrarenal regulation of potassium

The ISN Forefronts in Nephrology Symposium took place 8-11 September 2005 in Kartause Ittingen, Switzerland. It was dedicated to the memory of Robert W. Berliner, who died at age 86 on 5 February 2002. Dr Berliner contributed in a major way to our understanding of potassium transport in the kidney. Starting in the late 1940s, without knowledge of how potassium was transported across specific nephron segments and depending only on renal clearance methods, he and his able associates provided a still-valid blueprint of the basic transport properties of potassium handling by the kidney. They firmly established that potassium was simultaneously reabsorbed and secreted along the nephron; that variations in secretion in the distal nephron segments play a major role in regulating potassium excretion; and that such secretion is modulated by sodium, acid-base factors, hormones, and diuretics. These conclusions were presented in a memorable Harvey Lecture some forty years ago, and they have remained valid ever since. The concepts have also provided the foundation and stimulation for later work on single nephrons, tubule cells, and transport proteins involved in potassium transport.

Inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4) is up-regulated by a low K intake and suppresses renal outer medullary K channels (ROMK) by MAPK stimulation

Dietary K intake plays an important role in the regulation of renal K secretion: a high K intake stimulates whereas low K intake suppresses renal K secretion. Our previous studies demonstrated that the Src family protein-tyrosine kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) are involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on renal K channels and K secretion. However, the molecular mechanism by which low K intake stimulates MAPK is not completely understood. Here we show that inhibitor of growth 4 (ING4), a protein with a highly conserved plant homeodomain finger motif, is involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on MAPK. K restriction stimulates the expression of ING4 in the kidney and superoxide anions, and its related products are involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on ING4 expression. We used HEK293 cells to express ING4 and observed that expression of ING4 increased the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK MAPK, whereas down-regulation of ING4 with small interfering RNA decreased the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK. Immunocytochemistry showed that ING4 was expressed in the renal outer medullary potassium (ROMK)-positive tubules. Moreover, ING4 decreased K currents in Xenopus oocytes injected with ROMK channel cRNA. This inhibitory effect was reversed by blocking p38 and ERK MAPK. These data provide evidence for the role of ING4 in mediating the effect of low K intake on ROMK channel activity by stimulation of p38 and ERK MAPK.

Effect of hydrogen peroxide on ROMK channels in the cortical collecting duct

We used the patch-clamp technique to study the effect of H(2)O(2) on the apical ROMK-like small-conductance K (SK) channel in the cortical collecting duct (CCD). The addition of H(2)O(2) decreased the activity of the SK channels and the inhibitory effect of H(2)O(2) was larger in the CCD from rats on a K-deficient diet than that from rats on a normal-K or a high-K diet. However, application of H(2)O(2) did not inhibit the SK channels in inside-out patches. This suggests that the H(2)O(2)-mediated inhibition of SK channels was not due to direct oxidation of the SK channel protein. Because a previous study showed that H(2)O(2) stimulated the expression of Src family protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) which inhibited SK channels (3), we explored the role of PTK in mediating the effect of H(2)O(2) on SK channels. The application of H(2)O(2) stimulated the activity of endogenous PTK in M-1 cells and increased tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK in HEK293 cells transfected with GFP-ROMK1 and c-Src. However, blockade of PTK only attenuated but did not completely abolish the inhibitory effect of H(2)O(2) on SK channels. Since H(2)O(2) has also been demonstrated to activate mitogen-activated protein kinase, P38, and ERK (3), we examined the role of P38 and ERK in mediating the effect of H(2)O(2) on SK channels. Similar to blockade of PTK, suppression of P38 and ERK did not completely abolish the H(2)O(2)-induced inhibition of SK channels. However, combined use of ERK, P38, and PTK inhibitors completely abolished the effect of H(2)O(2) on SK channels. Also, treatment of the CCDs with concanavalin A, an agent which has been shown to inhibit endocytosis (19), abolished the inhibitory effect of H(2)O(2). We conclude that addition of H(2)O(2) inhibited SK channels by stimulating PTK activity, P38, and ERK in the CCD and that H(2)O(2) enhances the internalization of the SK channels.

Angiotensin II inhibits the ROMK-like small conductance K channel in renal cortical collecting duct during dietary potassium restriction

Base-line urinary potassium secretion in the distal nephron is mediated by small conductance rat outer medullary K (ROMK)-like channels. We used the patch clamp technique applied to split-open cortical collecting ducts (CCDs) isolated from rats fed a normal potassium (NK) or low potassium (LK) diet to test the hypothesis that AngII directly inhibits ROMK channel activity. We found that AngII inhibited ROMK channel activity in LK but not NK rats in a dose-dependent manner. The AngII-induced reduction in channel activity was mediated by AT1 receptor (AT1R) binding, because pretreatment of CCDs with losartan but not PD123319 AT1 and AT2 receptor antagonists, respectively, blocked the response. Pretreatment of CCDs with U73122 and calphostin C, inhibitors of phospholipase C (PLC) and protein kinase C (PKC), respectively, abolished the AngII-induced decrease in ROMK channel activity, confirming a role of the PLC-PKC pathway in this response. Studies by others suggest that AngII stimulates an Src family protein-tyrosine kinase (PTK) via PKC-NADPH oxidase. PTK has been shown to regulate the ROMK channel. Inhibition of NADPH oxidase with diphenyliodonium abolished the inhibitory effect of AngII or the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate on ROMK channels. Suppression of PTK by herbimycin A significantly attenuated the inhibitory effect of AngII on ROMK channel activity. We conclude that AngII inhibits ROMK channel activity through PKC-, NADPH oxidase-, and PTK-dependent pathways under conditions of dietary potassium restriction.

Inhibition of MAPK stimulates the Ca2+ -dependent big-conductance K channels in cortical collecting duct

The kidney plays a key role in maintaining potassium (K) homeostasis. K excretion is determined by the balance between K secretion and absorption in distal tubule segments such as the connecting tubule and cortical collecting duct. K secretion takes place by K entering principal cells (PC) from blood side through Na+, K+ -ATPase and being secreted into the lumen via both ROMK-like small-conductance K (SK) channels and Ca2+ -activated big-conductance K (BK) channels. K reabsorption occurs by stimulation of apical K/H-ATPase and inhibition of K recycling across the apical membrane in intercalated cells (IC). The role of ROMK channels in K secretion is well documented. However, the importance of BK channels in mediating K secretion is incompletely understood. It has been shown that their activity increases with high tubule flow rate and augmented K intake. However, BK channels have a low open probability and are mainly located in IC, which lack appropriate transporters for effective K secretion. Here we demonstrate that inhibition of ERK and P38 MAPKs stimulates BK channels in both PC and IC in the cortical collecting duct and that changes in K intake modulate their activity. Under control conditions, BK channel activity in PC was low but increased significantly by inhibition of both ERK and P38. Blocking MAPKs also increased channel open probability of BK in IC and thereby it may affect K backflux and net K absorption Thus, modulation of ERK and P38 MAPK activity is involved in controlling net K secretion in the distal nephron.

H2O2 and Src-dependent transactivation of the EGF receptor mediates the stimulatory effect of leptin on renal ERK and Na+, K+-ATPase

We examined the mechanism through which leptin increases Na(+), K(+)-ATPase activity in the rat kidney. Leptin was infused under anaesthesia into the abdominal aorta proximally to the renal arteries and then Na(+), K(+)-ATPase activity was measured in the renal cortex and medulla. Leptin (1mug/kgmin) increased Na(+), K(+)-ATPase activity after 3h of infusion, which was accompanied by the increase in urinary H(2)O(2) excretion and phosphorylation level of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK). The effect of leptin on ERK and Na(+), K(+)-ATPase was abolished by catalase, specific inhibitors of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, AG1478 and PD158780, as well as by ERK inhibitor, PD98059, and was mimicked by both exogenous H(2)O(2) and EGF. The effect of leptin was also prevented by the inhibitor of Src tyrosine kinase, PP2. Leptin and H(2)O(2) increased Src phosphorylation at Tyr(418). We conclude that leptin-induced stimulation of renal Na(+), K(+)-ATPase involves H(2)O(2) generation, Src kinase, transactivation of the EGF receptor, and stimulation of ERK.

Mitogen-activated protein kinases inhibit the ROMK (Kir 1.1)-like small conductance K channels in the cortical collecting duct

It was demonstrated previously that low dietary potassium (K) intake stimulates Src family protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) expression via a superoxide-dependent signaling. This study explored the role of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in mediating the effect of superoxide anions on PTK expression and ROMK (Kir 1.1) channel activity. Western blot analysis demonstrated that low K intake significantly increased the phosphorylation of P38 MAPK (P38) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) but had no effect on phosphorylation of c-JUN N-terminus kinase in renal cortex and outer medulla. The stimulatory effect of low K intake on P38 and ERK was abolished by treatment of rats with tempol. The possibility that increases in superoxide and related products that are induced by low K intake were responsible for stimulating phosphorylation of P38 and ERK also was supported by the finding that application of H(2)O(2) increased the phosphorylation of ERK and P38 in the cultured mouse collecting duct cells. Simultaneous blocking of ERK and P38 completely abolished the effect of H(2)O(2) on c-Src expression in mouse collecting duct cells. For determination of the role of P38 and ERK in the regulation of ROMK-like small-conductance K (SK) channels, the patch-clamp technique was used to study the effect of inhibiting P38 and ERK on SK channels in the cortical collecting duct from rats that were on a control K diet (1.1%) and on a K-deficient diet for 1 d. Inhibition of ERK, c-JUN N-terminus kinase, or P38 alone had no effect on SK channels. In contrast, simultaneous inhibition of P38 and ERK significantly increased channel activity. The effect of inhibiting MAPK on SK channels was not affected in the presence of herbimycin A, a PTK inhibitor, and was larger in rats that were on a K-deficient diet than in rats that were on a normal-K diet. However, the stimulatory effect of inhibiting ERK and P38 on SK was absent in the cortical collecting duct that was treated with colchicine. It is concluded that low K intake-induced increases in superoxide levels are responsible for stimulation of P38 and ERK and that MAPK inhibit the SK channels by stimulating PTK expression and via a PTK-independent mechanism.

Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase stimulates activity of the small-conductance K channel in the CCD

We used Western blotting to examine the expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) in the renal cortex and outer medulla and employed the patch-clamp technique to study the effect of PI3K on the ROMK-like small-conductance K (SK) channels in the cortical collecting duct (CCD). Low K intake increased the expression of the 110-kDa alpha-subunit (p110alpha) of PI3K compared with rats on a normal-K diet. Because low K intake increases superoxide levels (2), the possibility that increases in superoxide anions may be responsible for the effect of low K intake on the expression of PI3K is supported by finding that addition of H(2)O(2) stimulates the expression of p110alpha in M1 cells. Inhibition of PI3K with either wortmannin or LY-294002 significantly increased channel activity in the CCD from rats on a K-deficient (KD) diet or on a normal-K diet. The stimulatory effect of wortmannin on ROMK channel activity cannot be mimicked by inhibition of phospholipase C with U-73122. This suggests that the effect of inhibiting PI3K was not the result of increasing the phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate level. Moreover, application of the exogenous phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate analog had no effect on channel activity in excised patches. Because low K intake has been shown to increase the activity of protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), we explored the role of the interaction between PTK and PI3K in the regulation of the SK channel activity. Inhibition of PTK increased SK channel activity in the CCD from rats on a KD diet. However, addition of wortmannin did not further increase ROMK channel activity. Also, the effect of wortmannin was abolished by treatment of CCD with phalloidin. We conclude that PI3K is involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on ROMK channel activity in the CCD and that the effect of PI3K on SK channels requires the involvement of PTK and the cytoskeleton.

Ischemia impairs the association between connexin 43 and M3 subtype of acetylcholine muscarinic receptor (M3-mAChR) in ventricular myocytes

We used Western blot analysis to examine the expression of connexin 43 and M2/M3 acetylcholine muscarinic receptors (mAChR) and their interaction in ventricular myocytes from control and the ischemic heart. We confirmed that the connexin 43 and M2/ M3-mAChR were expressed in ventricular myocytes. Moreover, we showed that M3-mAChR was expressed in non-glycosylated (72 kDa) and glycosylated forms (115 kDa). Immunostaining showed that connexin 43 is closely associated with M3-mAChR in parts of cell membranes of myocytes. Immunoprecipitation of lysate of cardiac myocytes with M2/M3-mAChR antibody pulled down a 44 kDa protein recognized by connexin 43 antibody. Ischemia increased the expression of M3-mAChR in myocytes. The ischemiainduced increase in the M3-mAChR expression was specific because ischemia did not affect the expression of M1, M2, M4 and M5- mAChR in the heart. On the other hand, ischemia decreased the expression of connexin 43 in myocardium. We also examined the effect of ischemia on the interaction between M2/M3-mAChR and connexin 43. Ischemia suppressed the association of M3-mAChR with connexin 43 but did not affect the association of connexin 43 with M2-mAChR. Administration of choline before ischemia not only partially restored the expression of connexin 43 but also attenuated the ischemia-induced suppression of the association between connexin 43 and M3-mAChR. We conclude that connexin 43 interacts with M2/M3-mAChR and that ischemia specifically impairs the association between M3-mAChR and connexin 43.

Regulation of ROMK (Kir1.1) channels: new mechanisms and aspects

This brief review attempts to provide an overview regarding recent developments in the regulation of ROMK channels. Studies performed in ROMK null mice suggest that ROMK cannot only form hometetramers such as the small-conductance (30-pS) K channels but also construct heterotetramers such as the 70-pS K channel in the thick ascending limb (TAL). The expression of ROMK channels in the plasma membrane is regulated by protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), serum and glucorticoid-induced kinase (SGK), and with-no-lysine-kinase 4. PTK is involved in mediating the effect of low K intake on ROMK channel activity. Increases in superoxide anions induced by low dietary K intake are responsible for the stimulation of PTK expression and tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK channels. Finally, a recent study indicated that ROMK channels can be monoubiquitinated and monoubiquitination regulates the surface expression of ROMK channels.