Angiotensin II inhibits bTREK-1 K+ channels in adrenocortical cells by separate Ca2+- and ATP hydrolysis-dependent mechanisms

Human adrenal glomerulosa cells express K2P and GIRK potassium channels that are inhibited by ANG II and ACTH

In whole cell patch clamp recordings, it was discovered that normal human adrenal zona glomerulosa (AZG) cells express members of the three major families of K⁺ channels. Among these are a two-pore (K2P) leak-type and a G protein-coupled, inwardly rectifying (GIRK) channel, both inhibited by peptide hormones that stimulate aldosterone secretion. The K2P current displayed properties identifying it as TREK-1 (KCNK2). This outwardly rectifying current was activated by arachidonic acid and inhibited by angiotensin II (ANG II), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), and forskolin. The activation and inhibition of TREK-1 was coupled to AZG cell hyperpolarization and depolarization, respectively. A second K2P channel, TASK-1 (KCNK3), was expressed at a lower density in AZG cells. Human AZG cells also express inwardly rectifying K⁺ current(s) (K_IR) that include quasi-instantaneous and time-dependent components. This is the first report demonstrating the presence of K_IR in whole cell recordings from AZG cells of any species. The time-dependent current was selectively inhibited by ANG II, and ACTH, identifying it as a G protein-coupled (GIRK) channel, most likely K_IR3.4 (KCNJ5). The quasi-instantaneous K_IR current was not inhibited by ANG II or ACTH and may be a separate non-GIRK current. Finally, AZG cells express a voltage-gated, rapidly inactivating K⁺ current whose properties identified as K_V1.4 (KCNA4), a conclusion confirmed by Northern blot. These findings demonstrate that human AZG cells express K2P and GIRK channels whose inhibition by ANG II and ACTH is likely coupled to depolarization-dependent secretion. They further demonstrate that human AZG K⁺ channels differ fundamentally from the widely adopted rodent models for human aldosterone secretion.

Phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate dynamically regulates the K2P background K+ channel TASK-2

Two-pore domain K_2P K⁺ channels responsible for the background K⁺ conductance and the resting membrane potential, are also finely regulated by a variety of chemical, physical and physiological stimuli. Hormones and transmitters acting through Gq protein-coupled receptors (GqPCRs) modulate the activity of various K_2P channels but the signalling involved has remained elusive, in particular whether dynamic regulation by membrane PI(4,5)P₂, common among other classes of K⁺ channels, affects K_2P channels is controversial. Here we show that K_2P K⁺ channel TASK-2 requires PI(4,5)P₂ for activity, a dependence that accounts for its run down in the absence of intracellular ATP and its full recovery by addition of exogenous PI(4,5)P₂, its inhibition by low concentrations of polycation PI scavengers, and inhibition by PI(4,5)P₂ depletion from the membrane. Comprehensive mutagenesis suggests that PI(4,5)P₂ interaction with TASK-2 takes place at C-terminus where three basic aminoacids are identified as being part of a putative binding site.

Genetic Deletion of TREK-1 or TWIK-1/TREK-1 Potassium Channels does not Alter the Basic Electrophysiological Properties of Mature Hippocampal Astrocytes In Situ

We have recently shown that a linear current-to-voltage (I-V) relationship of membrane conductance (passive conductance) reflects the intrinsic property of K⁺ channels in mature astrocytes. While passive conductance is known to underpin a highly negative and stable membrane potential (V_M) essential for the basic homeostatic function of astrocytes, a complete repertoire of the involved K⁺ channels remains elusive. TREK-1 two-pore domain K⁺ channel (K_2P) is highly expressed in astrocytes, and covalent association of TREK-1 with TWIK-1, another highly expressed astrocytic K_2P, has been reported as a mechanism underlying the trafficking of heterodimer TWIK-1/TREK-1 channel to the membrane and contributing to astrocyte passive conductance. To decipher the individual contribution of TREK-1 and address whether the appearance of passive conductance is conditional to the co-expression of TWIK-1/TREK-1 in astrocytes, TREK-1 single and TWIK-1/TREK-1 double gene knockout mice were used in the present study. The relative quantity of mRNA encoding other astrocyte K⁺ channels, such as K_ir4.1, K_ir5.1, and TREK-2, was not altered in these gene knockout mice. Whole-cell recording from hippocampal astrocytes in situ revealed no detectable changes in astrocyte passive conductance, V_M, or membrane input resistance (R_in) in either kind of gene knockout mouse. Additionally, TREK-1 proteins were mainly located in the intracellular compartments of the hippocampus. Altogether, genetic deletion of TREK-1 alone or together with TWIK-1 produced no obvious alteration in the basic electrophysiological properties of hippocampal astrocytes. Thus, future research focusing on other K⁺ channels may shed light on this long-standing and important question in astrocyte physiology.

Signaling Interactions in the Adrenal Cortex

The major physiological stimuli of aldosterone secretion are angiotensin II (AII) and extracellular K(+), whereas cortisol production is primarily regulated by corticotropin (ACTH) in fasciculata cells. AII triggers Ca(2+) release from internal stores that is followed by store-operated and voltage-dependent Ca(2+) entry, whereas K(+)-evoked depolarization activates voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels. ACTH acts primarily through the formation of cAMP and subsequent protein phosphorylation by protein kinase A. Both Ca(2+) and cAMP facilitate the transfer of cholesterol to mitochondrial inner membrane. The cytosolic Ca(2+) signal is transferred into the mitochondrial matrix and enhances pyridine nucleotide reduction. Increased formation of NADH results in increased ATP production, whereas that of NADPH supports steroid production. In reality, the control of adrenocortical function is a lot more sophisticated with second messengers crosstalking and mutually modifying each other's pathways. Cytosolic Ca(2+) and cGMP are both capable of modifying cAMP metabolism, while cAMP may enhance Ca(2+) release and voltage-activated Ca(2+) channel activity. Besides, mitochondrial Ca(2+) signal brings about cAMP formation within the organelle and this further enhances aldosterone production. Maintained aldosterone and cortisol secretion are optimized by the concurrent actions of Ca(2+) and cAMP, as exemplified by the apparent synergism of Ca(2+) influx (inducing cAMP formation) and Ca(2+) release during response to AII. Thus, cross-actions of parallel signal transducing pathways are not mere intracellular curiosities but rather substantial phenomena, which fine-tune the biological response. Our review focuses on these functionally relevant interactions between the Ca(2+) and the cyclic nucleotide signal transducing pathways hitherto described in the adrenal cortex.

Muscarinic modulation of TREK currents in mouse sympathetic superior cervical ganglion neurons

Muscarinic receptors play a key role in the control of neurotransmission in the autonomic ganglia, which has mainly been ascribed to the regulation of potassium M-currents and voltage-dependent calcium currents. Muscarinic agonists provoke depolarization of the membrane potential and a reduction in spike frequency adaptation in postganglionic neurons, effects that may be explained by M-current inhibition. Here, we report the presence of a riluzole-activated current (IRIL ) that flows through the TREK-2 channels, and that is also inhibited by muscarinic agonists in neurons of the mouse superior cervical ganglion (mSCG). The muscarinic agonist oxotremorine-M (Oxo-M) inhibited the IRIL by 50%, an effect that was abolished by pretreatment with atropine or pirenzepine, but was unaffected in the presence of himbacine. Moreover, these antagonists had similar effects on single-channel TREK-2 currents. IRIL inhibition was unaffected by pretreatment with pertussis toxin. The protein kinase C blocker bisindolylmaleimide did not have an effect, and neither did the inositol triphosphate antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborane. Nevertheless, the IRIL was markedly attenuated by the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor ET-18-OCH3. Finally, the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase inhibitor wortmannin strongly attenuated the IRIL , whereas blocking phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2 ) depletion consistently prevented IRIL inhibition by Oxo-M. These results demonstrate that TREK-2 currents in mSCG neurons are inhibited by muscarinic agonists that activate M1 muscarinic receptors, reducing PIP2 levels via a PLC-dependent pathway. The similarities between the signaling pathways regulating the IRIL and the M-current in the same neurons reflect an important role of this new pathway in the control of autonomic ganglia excitability.

Two-pore domain potassium channels in the adrenal cortex

The physiological control of steroid hormone secretion from the adrenal cortex depends on the function of potassium channels. The "two-pore domain K(+) channels" (K2P) TWIK-related acid sensitive K(+) channel 1 (TASK1), TASK3, and TWIK-related K(+) channel 1 (TREK1) are strongly expressed in adrenocortical cells. They confer a background K(+) conductance to these cells which is important for the K(+) sensitivity as well as for angiotensin II and adrenocorticotropic hormone-dependent stimulation of aldosterone and cortisol synthesis. Mice with single deletions of the Task1 or Task3 gene as well as Task1/Task3 double knockout mice display partially autonomous aldosterone synthesis. It appears that TASK1 and TASK3 serve different functions: TASK1 affects cell differentiation and prevents expression of aldosterone synthase in the zona fasciculata, while TASK3 controls aldosterone secretion in glomerulosa cells. TREK1 is involved in the regulation of cortisol secretion in fasciculata cells. These data suggest that a disturbed function of K2P channels could contribute to adrenocortical pathologies in humans.

Functional study of TREK-1 potassium channels during rat heart development and cardiac ischemia using RNAi techniques

To explore the physiological and pathological significance of the 2-pore domain potassium channel TWIK-related K(+) (TREK)-1 in rat heart, its expression and role during heart development and cardiac ischemia were investigated. In the former study, the ventricles of Sprague Dawley rats were collected from embryo day 19 to postnatal 18 months and examined for mRNA and protein expression of TREK-1. It was found that both increased during development, reached a maximum at postnatal day 28, and remained higher at postnatal day 3 through to postnatal 18 months. In the latter study, protein expression of TREK-1 was examined after initiation of acute heart ischemia by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. TREK-1 expression was found to be increased in the endocardium but unchanged in the epicardium. In primary cultured rat neonatal ventricular myocytes subjected to hypoxia (oxygen-glucose deprivation), TREK-1 expression was increased. In cultured neonatal cardiomyocytes, silencing of the TREK-1 gene by lentivirus delivery of the short-hairpin RNAs, L-sh-492 and L-sh-605, was found to promote their viability and number. In addition, both short-hairpin RNA provided protection against hypoxia-induced injury to cardiomyocytes in vitro. These results suggest that TREK-1 plays an important role in neonatal rat heart development and downregulation of TREK-1 may provide protection against ischemic injury. It seems that TREK-1 is a potential drug target for treatment of acute heart ischemia.

Adrenal fasciculata cells express T-type and rapidly and slowly activating L-type Ca2+ channels that regulate cortisol secretion

In whole cell patch-clamp recordings, we characterized the L-type Ca(2+) currents in bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells and explored their role, along with the role of T-type channels, in ACTH- and angiotensin II (ANG II)-stimulated cortisol secretion. Two distinct dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type currents were identified, both of which were activated at relatively hyperpolarized potentials. One activated with rapid kinetics and, in conjunction with Northern blotting and PCR, was determined to be Cav1.3. The other, expressed in approximately one-half of AZF cells, activated with extremely slow voltage-dependent kinetics and combined properties not previously reported for an L-type Ca(2+) channel. The T-type Ca(2+) channel antagonist 3,5-dichloro-N-[1-(2,2-dimethyl-tetrahydro-pyran-4-ylmethyl)-4-fluoro-piperidin-4-ylmethyl]-benzamide (TTA-P2) inhibited Cav3.2 current in these cells, as well as ACTH- and ANG II-stimulated cortisol secretion, at concentrations that did not affect L-type currents. In contrast, nifedipine specifically inhibited L-type currents and cortisol secretion, but less effectively than TTA-P2. Diphenylbutylpiperidine Ca(2+) antagonists, including pimozide, penfluridol, and fluspirilene, and the dihydropyridine niguldipine blocked Cav3.2 and L-type currents and inhibited ACTH-stimulated cortisol secretion with similar potency. This study shows that bovine AZF cells express three Ca(2+) channels, the voltage-dependent gating and kinetics of which could orchestrate complex mechanisms linking peptide hormone receptors to cortisol secretion through action potentials or sustained depolarization. The function of the novel, slowly activating L-type channel is of particular interest in this respect. Regardless, the well-correlated selective inhibition of T- and L-type currents and ACTH- and ANG II-stimulated cortisol secretion by TTA-P2 and nifedipine establish the critical importance of these channels in AZF cell physiology.

Role of K₂p channels in stimulus-secretion coupling

Two-pore domain K(+) (K2P) channels are involved in a variety of physiological processes by virtue of their high basal activity and sensitivity to various biological stimuli. One of these processes is secretion of hormones and transmitters in response to stimuli such as hypoxia, acidosis, and receptor agonists. The rise in intracellular [Ca(2+)] ([Ca(2+)]i) that is critical for the secretory event can be achieved by several mechanisms: (a) inhibition of resting (background) K(+) channels, (b) activation of Na(+)/Ca(2+)-permeable channels, and (c) release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. Here, we discuss the role of TASK and TREK in stimulus-secretion mechanisms in carotid body chemoreceptor cells and adrenal medullary/cortical cells. Studies show that stimuli such as hypoxia and acidosis cause cell depolarization and transmitter/hormone secretion by inhibition of TASK or TREK. Subsequent elevation of [Ca(2+)]i produced by opening of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels then activates a Na(+)-permeable cation channel, presumably to help sustain the depolarization and [Ca(2+)]i. Agonists such as angiotensin II may elevate [Ca(2+)]i via multiple mechanisms involving both inhibition of TASK/TREK and Ca(2+) release from internal stores to cause aldosterone secretion. Thus, inhibition of resting (background) K(+) channels and subsequent activation of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels and Na(+)-permeable non-selective cation channels may be a common ionic mechanism that lead to hormone and transmitter secretion.

Minireview: potassium channels and aldosterone dysregulation: is primary aldosteronism a potassium channelopathy?

Primary aldosteronism is the most common form of secondary hypertension and has significant cardiovascular consequences. Aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) are responsible for half the cases of primary aldosteronism, and about half have mutations of the G protein-activated inward rectifying potassium channel Kir3.4. Under basal conditions, the adrenal zona glomerulosa cells are hyperpolarized with negative resting potentials determined by membrane permeability to K(+) mediated through various K(+) channels, including the leak K(+) channels TASK-1, TASK-3, and Twik-Related Potassium Channel 1, and G protein inward rectifying potassium channel Kir3.4. Angiotensin II decreases the activity of the leak K(+) channels and Kir3.4 channel and decreases the expression of the Kir3.4 channel, resulting in membrane depolarization, increased intracellular calcium, calcium-calmodulin pathway activation, and increased expression of cytochrome P450 aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2), the last enzyme for aldosterone production. Somatic mutations of the selectivity filter of the Kir3.4 channel in APA results in loss of selectivity for K(+) and entry of sodium, resulting in membrane depolarization, calcium mobilization, increased CYP11B2 expression, and hyperaldosteronism. Germ cell mutations cause familial hyperaldosteronism type 3, which is associated with adrenal zona glomerulosa hyperplasia, rather than adenoma. Less commonly, somatic mutations of the sodium-potassium ATPase, calcium ATPase, or the calcium channel calcium channel voltage-dependent L type alpha 1D have been found in some APAs. The regulation of aldosterone secretion is exerted to a significant degree by activation of membrane K(+) and calcium channels or pumps, so it is not surprising that the known causes of disorders of aldosterone secretion in APA have been channelopathies, which activate mechanisms that increase aldosterone synthesis.

Ca2+ and K+ channels of normal human adrenal zona fasciculata cells: properties and modulation by ACTH and AngII

In whole cell patch clamp recordings, we found that normal human adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells express voltage-gated, rapidly inactivating Ca²⁺ and K⁺ currents and a noninactivating, leak-type K⁺ current. Characterization of these currents with respect to voltage-dependent gating and kinetic properties, pharmacology, and modulation by the peptide hormones adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and AngII, in conjunction with Northern blot analysis, identified these channels as Ca_v3.2 (encoded by CACNA1H), Kv1.4 (KCNA4), and TREK-1 (KCNK2). In particular, the low voltage–activated, rapidly inactivating and slowly deactivating Ca²⁺ current (Ca_v3.2) was potently blocked by Ni²⁺ with an IC₅₀ of 3 µM. The voltage-gated, rapidly inactivating K⁺ current (Kv1.4) was robustly expressed in nearly every cell, with a current density of 95.0 ± 7.2 pA/pF (n = 64). The noninactivating, outwardly rectifying K⁺ current (TREK-1) grew to a stable maximum over a period of minutes when recording at a holding potential of −80 mV. This noninactivating K⁺ current was markedly activated by cinnamyl 1-3,4-dihydroxy-α-cyanocinnamate (CDC) and arachidonic acid (AA) and inhibited almost completely by forskolin, properties which are specific to TREK-1 among the K2P family of K⁺ channels. The activation of TREK-1 by AA and inhibition by forskolin were closely linked to membrane hyperpolarization and depolarization, respectively. ACTH and AngII selectively inhibited the noninactivating K⁺ current in human AZF cells at concentrations that stimulated cortisol secretion. Accordingly, mibefradil and CDC at concentrations that, respectively, blocked Ca_v3.2 and activated TREK-1, each inhibited both ACTH- and AngII-stimulated cortisol secretion. These results characterize the major Ca²⁺ and K⁺ channels expressed by normal human AZF cells and identify TREK-1 as the primary leak-type channel involved in establishing the membrane potential. These findings also suggest a model for cortisol secretion in human AZF cells wherein ACTH and AngII receptor activation is coupled to membrane depolarization and the activation of Ca_v3.2 channels through inhibition of hTREK-1.

Evidence for cAMP-independent bTREK-1 inhibition by ACTH and NPS-ACTH in adrenocortical cells

Bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells express bTREK-1 K(+) channels that are inhibited by ACTH through cAMP-dependent pathways. In whole cell patch clamp recordings from AZF cells, we found that ACTH may also inhibit bTREK-1 by a cAMP-independent mechanism. When the potent adenylyl cyclase (AC) antagonist 2,5-dideoxyadenosine-3'-triphosphate (2,5-dd-3'-ATP) was applied intracellularly through the patch pipette, bTREK-1 inhibition by the AC activator forskolin was blocked. In contrast, bTREK-1 inhibition by ACTH was unaltered. The selective G(Sα) antagonist NF449 also failed to blunt bTREK-1 inhibition by ACTH. At concentrations that produce little measurable increase in cAMP in bovine AZF cells, the O-nitrophenyl, sulfenyl-derivative of ACTH (NPS-ACTH) also inhibited bTREK-1 almost completely. Accordingly, 2,5-dd-3'-ATP at concentrations more than 1000× its reported IC(50) did not block bTREK-1 inhibition by NPS-ACTH. These results indicate that ACTH and NPS-ACTH can inhibit native bTREK-1 K(+) channels in AZF cells by a mechanism that does not involve activation of AC.

Molecular regulations governing TREK and TRAAK channel functions

K+ channels with two-pore domain (K2p) form a large family of hyperpolarizing channels. They produce background currents that oppose membrane depolarization and cell excitability. They are involved in cellular mechanisms of apoptosis, vasodilatation, anesthesia, pain, neuroprotection and depression. This review focuses on TREK-1, TREK-2 and TRAAK channels subfamily and on the mechanisms that contribute to their molecular heterogeneity and functional regulations. Their molecular diversity is determined not only by the number of genes but also by alternative splicing and alternative initiation of translation. These channels are sensitive to a wide array of biophysical parameters that affect their activity such as unsaturated fatty acids, intra- and extracellular pH, membrane stretch, temperature, and intracellular signaling pathways. They interact with partner proteins that influence their activity and their plasma membrane expression. Molecular heterogeneity, regulatory mechanisms and protein partners are all expected to contribute to cell specific functions of TREK currents in many tissues.

Calcium-dependent inhibition of adrenal TREK-1 channels by angiotensin II and ionomycin

Bovine adrenocortical cells express bTREK-1 K(+) (bovine KCNK2) channels that are inhibited by ANG II through a Gq-coupled receptor by separate Ca(2+) and ATP hydrolysis-dependent signaling pathways. Whole cell and single patch clamp recording from adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells were used to characterize Ca(2+)-dependent inhibition of bTREK-1. In whole cell recordings with pipette solutions containing 0.5 mM EGTA and no ATP, the Ca(2+) ionophore ionomycin (1 μM) produced a transient inhibition of bTREK-1 that reversed spontaneously within minutes. At higher concentrations, ionomycin (5-10 μM) produced a sustained inhibition of bTREK-1 that was reversible upon washing, even in the absence of hydrolyzable [ATP](i). BAPTA was much more effective than EGTA at suppressing bTREK-1 inhibition by ANG II. When intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) was buffered to 20 nM with either 11 mM BAPTA or EGTA, ANG II (10 nM) inhibited bTREK-1 by 12.0 ± 4.5% (n=11) and 59.3 ± 8.4% (n=4), respectively. Inclusion of the water-soluble phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) analog DiC(8)PI(4,5)P(2) in the pipette failed to increase bTREK-1 expression or reduce its inhibition by ANG II. The open probability (P(o)) of unitary bTREK-1 channels recorded from inside-out patches was reduced by Ca(2+) (10-35 μM) in a concentration-dependent manner. These results are consistent with a model in which ANG II inhibits bTREK-1 K(+) channels by a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism that does not require the depletion of membrane-associated PIP(2). They further indicate that the Ca(2+) source is located in close proximity within a "Ca(2+) nanodomain" of bTREK-1 channels, where [Ca(2+)](i) may reach concentrations of >10 μM. bTREK-1 is the first two-pore K(+) channel shown to be inhibited by Ca(2+) through activation of a G protein-coupled receptor.

Direct activation of human phospholipase C by its well known inhibitor u73122

Phospholipase C (PLC) enzymes are an important family of regulatory proteins involved in numerous cellular functions, primarily through hydrolysis of the polar head group from inositol-containing membrane phospholipids. U73122 (1-(6-((17β-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl)amino)hexyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione), one of only a few small molecules reported to inhibit the activity of these enzymes, has been broadly applied as a pharmacological tool to implicate PLCs in diverse experimental phenotypes. The purpose of this study was to develop a better understanding of molecular interactions between U73122 and PLCs. Hence, the effects of U73122 on human PLCβ3 (hPLCβ3) were evaluated in a cell-free micellar system. Surprisingly, U73122 increased the activity of hPLCβ3 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner; up to an 8-fold increase in enzyme activity was observed with an EC50=13.6±5 μm. Activation of hPLCβ3 by U73122 required covalent modification of cysteines as evidenced by the observation that enzyme activation was attenuated by thiol-containing nucleophiles, l-cysteine and glutathione. Mass spectrometric analysis confirmed covalent reaction with U73122 at eight cysteines, although maximum activation was achieved without complete alkylation; the modified residues were identified by LC/MS/MS peptide sequencing. Interestingly, U73122 (10 μm) also activated hPLCγ1 (>10-fold) and hPLCβ2 (∼2-fold); PLCδ1 was neither activated nor inhibited. Therefore, in contrast to its reported inhibitory potential, U73122 failed to inhibit several purified PLCs. Most of these PLCs were directly activated by U73122, and a simple mechanism for the activation is proposed. These results strongly suggest a need to re-evaluate the use of U73122 as a general inhibitor of PLC isozymes.

Targeting TASK-1 channels as a therapeutic approach

The voltage-independent background two-pore domain K(+) channel TASK-1 sets the resting membrane potential in excitable cells and renders these cells sensitive to a variety of vasoactive factors. There is clear evidence for TASK-1 in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells and TASK-1 channels are likely to regulate the pulmonary vascular tone through their regulation by hypoxia, pH, inhaled anesthetics, and G protein-coupled pathways. Furthermore, TASK-1 is a strong candidate to play a role in hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. On the other hand, consistent with the activation of TASK-1 channels by volatile anesthetics, TASK-1 contributes to the anesthetic-induced pulmonary vasodilation. TASK-1 channels are unique among K(+) channels because they are regulated by both, increases and decreases from physiological pH, thus contributing to their protective effect on the pulmonary arteries. Moreover, TASK-1 may also have a critical role in mediating the vasoactive response of G protein-coupled pathways in resistance arteries which can offer promising therapeutic solutions to target diseases of the pulmonary circulation.

Endothelin-1 inhibits background two-pore domain channel TASK-1 in primary human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Endothelin (ET)-1 causes long-lasting vasoconstriction and vascular remodeling by interacting with specific G-protein-coupled receptors in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), and thus plays an important role in the pathophysiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The two-pore domain K(+) channel, TASK-1, controls the resting membrane potential in human PASMCs (hPASMCs), and renders these cells sensitive to a variety of vasoactive factors, as previously shown. ET-1 may exert its vasoconstrictive effects in part by targeting TASK-1. To clarify this, we analyzed the ET-1 signaling pathway related to TASK-1 in primary hPASMCs. We employed the whole-cell patch-clamp technique combined with TASK-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) in hPASMC and the isolated, perfused, and ventilated mouse lung model. We found that ET-1 depolarized primary hPASMCs by phosphorylating TASK-1 at clinically relevant concentrations. The ET sensitivity of TASK-1 required ET(A) receptors, phospholipase C, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-biphosphate, diacylglycerol, and protein kinase C in primary hPASMCs. The ET-1 effect on membrane potential and TASK-1 was abrogated using TASK-1 siRNA. This is the first time that the background K(+) channel, TASK-1, has been identified in the ET-1-mediated depolarization in native hPASMC, and might represent a novel pathologic mechanism related to pulmonary arterial hypertension.

ACTH inhibits bTREK-1 K+ channels through multiple cAMP-dependent signaling pathways

Bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells express bTREK-1 K⁺ channels that set the resting membrane potential and function pivotally in the physiology of cortisol secretion. Inhibition of these K⁺ channels by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or cAMP is coupled to depolarization and Ca²⁺ entry. The mechanism of ACTH and cAMP-mediated inhibition of bTREK-1 was explored in whole cell patch clamp recordings from AZF cells. Inhibition of bTREK-1 by ACTH and forskolin was not affected by the addition of both H-89 and PKI(6–22) amide to the pipette solution at concentrations that completely blocked activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) in these cells. The ACTH derivative, O-nitrophenyl, sulfenyl-adrenocorticotropin (NPS-ACTH), at concentrations that produced little or no activation of PKA, inhibited bTREK-1 by a Ca²⁺-independent mechanism. Northern blot analysis showed that bovine AZF cells robustly express mRNA for Epac2, a guanine nucleotide exchange protein activated by cAMP. The selective Epac activator, 8-pCPT-2′-O-Me-cAMP, applied intracellularly through the patch pipette, inhibited bTREK-1 (IC₅₀ = 0.63 μM) at concentrations that did not activate PKA. Inhibition by this agent was unaffected by PKA inhibitors, including RpcAMPS, but was eliminated in the absence of hydrolyzable ATP. Culturing AZF cells in the presence of ACTH markedly reduced the expression of Epac2 mRNA. 8-pCPT-2′-O-Me-cAMP failed to inhibit bTREK-1 current in AZF cells that had been treated with ACTH for 3–4 d while inhibition by 8-br-cAMP was not affected. 8-pCPT-2′-O-Me-cAMP failed to inhibit bTREK-1 expressed in HEK293 cells, which express little or no Epac2. These findings demonstrate that, in addition to the well-described PKA-dependent TREK-1 inhibition, ACTH, NPS-ACTH, forskolin, and 8-pCPT-2′-O-Me-cAMP also inhibit these K⁺ channels by a PKA-independent signaling pathway. The convergent inhibition of bTREK-1 through parallel PKA- and Epac-dependent mechanisms may provide for failsafe membrane depolarization by ACTH.

Curcumin inhibits bTREK-1 K+ channels and stimulates cortisol secretion from adrenocortical cells

Bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells express bTREK-1 K(+) channels that set the resting membrane potential. Inhibition of these channels by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is coupled to membrane depolarization and cortisol secretion. Curcumin, a phytochemical with medicinal properties extracted from the spice turmeric, was found to modulate both bTREK-1 K(+) currents and cortisol secretion from AZF cells. In whole-cell patch clamp experiments, curcumin inhibited bTREK-1 with an IC(50) of 0.93muM by a mechanism that was voltage-independent. bTREK-1 inhibition by curcumin occurred through interaction with an external binding site and was independent of ATP hydrolysis. Curcumin produced a concentration-dependent increase in cortisol secretion that persisted for up to 24h. At a maximally effective concentration of 50muM, curcumin increased secretion as much as 10-fold. These results demonstrate that curcumin potently inhibits bTREK-1 K(+) channels and stimulates cortisol secretion from bovine AZF cells. The inhibition of bTREK-1 by curcumin may be linked to cortisol secretion through membrane depolarization. Since TREK-1 is widely expressed in a variety of cells, it is likely that some of the biological actions of curcumin, including its therapeutic effects, may be mediated through inhibition of these K(+) channels.

Potent Inhibition of Native TREK-1 K+Channels by Selected Dihydropyridine Ca2+Channel Antagonists

Bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells express bTREK-1 background K+ channels that set the resting membrane potential. Whole-cell and single-channel patch-clamp recording were used to compare five Ca2+ channel antagonists with respect to their potency as inhibitors of native bTREK-1 K+ channels. The dihydropyridine (DHP) Ca2+ channel antagonists amlodipine and niguldipine potently and specifically inhibited bTREK-1 with IC50 values of 0.43 and 0.75 microM, respectively. The other Ca2+ channel antagonists, including the DHP nifedipine, the diphenyldiperazine flunarizine, and the cannabinoid anandamide were less potent, with IC50 values of 8.18, 2.48, and 5.07 microM, respectively. Additional studies with the highly prescribed antihypertensive amlodipine showed that inhibition of bTREK-1 by this agent was voltage-independent and specific. At concentrations that produced near complete block of bTREK-1, amlodipine inhibited voltage-gated Kv1.4 K+ and T-type Ca2+ currents in AZF cells by less than 10%. At the single-channel level, amlodipine reduced bTREK-1 open probability without altering the unitary conductance. The results demonstrate that selected DHP L-type Ca2+ channel antagonists potently inhibit native bTREK-1 K+ channels, whereas other Ca2+ channel antagonists also inhibit bTREK-1 at higher concentrations. Collectively, organic Ca2+ channel antagonists make up the most potent class of TREK-1 inhibitors yet described. Because TREK-1 K+ channels are widely expressed in the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, it is possible that some of the therapeutic or toxic effects of frequently prescribed drugs such as amlodipine may be due to their interaction with TREK-1 K+ rather L-type Ca2+ channels.

Angiotensin II inhibits native bTREK-1 K+ channels through a PLC-, kinase C-, and PIP2-independent pathway requiring ATP hydrolysis

Angiotensin II (ANG II) inhibits bTREK-1 (bovine KCNK2) K(+) channels in bovine adrenocortical cells through a Gq-coupled AT(1) receptor by activation of separate Ca(2+)- and ATP hydrolysis-dependent signaling pathways. Whole cell patch-clamp recording from bovine adrenal zona fasciculata (AZF) cells was used to characterize the ATP-dependent signaling mechanism for inhibition of bTREK-1 by ANG II. We discovered that ATP-dependent inhibition of bTREK-1 by ANG II occurred through a novel mechanism that was independent of PLC and its established downstream effectors. The ATP-dependent inhibition of bTREK-1 by ANG II was not reduced by the PLC antagonists edelfosine and U73122, or by the PKC antagonists bisindolylmaleimide I (BIM) or calphostin C. bTREK-1 was partially inhibited ( approximately 25%) by the PKC activator phorbol 12,13 dibutyrate (PDBu) through an ATP-dependent mechanism that was blocked by BIM. Addition of Phosphatidylinositol(4,5) bisphosphate diC8 [DiC(8)PI(4,5)P(2)], a water-soluble derivative of phosphotidyl inositol 4,5 bisphosphate (PIP(2)) to the pipette solution failed to alter inhibition by ANG II. bTREK-1 inhibition by ANG II was also insensitive to antagonists of other protein kinases activated by ANG II in adrenocortical cells but was completely blocked by inorganic polytriphosphate PPPi. DiC(8)PI(4,5)P(2) was a weak activator of bTREK-1 channels, compared with the high-affinity ATP analog N(6)-(2-phenylethyl)adenosine-5'-O-triphosphate (6-PhEt-ATP). These results demonstrate that the modulation of bTREK-1 channels in bovine AZF cells is distinctive with respect to activation by phosphoinositides and nucleotides and inhibition by Gq-coupled receptors. Importantly, ANG II inhibits bTREK-1 channels through a novel pathway that is different from that described for inhibition of native TREK-1 channels in neurons, or cloned channels expressed in cell lines. They also indicate that, under physiological conditions, ANG II inhibits bTREK-1 and depolarizes AZF cells by two, novel, independent pathways that diverge proximal to the activation of PLC.

Neuronal two-pore-domain potassium channels and their regulation by G protein-coupled receptors

Leak potassium currents in the nervous system are often carried through two-pore-domain potassium (K2P) channels. These channels are regulated by a number of different G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) pathways. The TASK subfamily of K2P channels are inhibited following activation of the G protein Galpha(q). The mechanism(s) that transduce this inhibition have yet to be established but there is evidence to support a role of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) hydrolysis products, depletion of PIP2 itself from the membrane, or a direct action of activated Galpha(q) on TASK channels. It seems possible that more than one pathway may act in parallel to transduce inhibition. By contrast, TRESK channels are stimulated following activation of Galpha(q). This is due to stimulation of the protein phosphatase, calcineurin, which dephosphorylates TRESK channels and enhances their activity. TREK channels are the most widely regulated of the K2P channel subfamilies being inhibited following activation of Galpha(q) and Galpha(s) but enhanced following activation of Galpha(i). The multiple pathways activated and the apparent promiscuous coupling of at least some K2P channel types to different G protein regulatory pathways suggests that the excitability of neurons that express K2P channels will be profoundly sensitive to variations in GPCR activity.

Mechanism of inhibition of TREK-2 (K2P10.1) by the Gq-coupled M3 muscarinic receptor

TREK-2 is a member of the two-pore domain K(+) channel family and provides part of the background K(+) current in many types of cells. Neurotransmitters that act on receptors coupled to G(q) strongly inhibit TREK-2 and thus enhance cell excitability. The molecular basis for the inhibition of TREK-2 was studied. In COS-7 cells expressing TREK-2 and M(3) receptor, acetylcholine (ACh) applied to the bath solution strongly inhibited the whole cell current, and this was markedly reduced in the presence of U-73122, an inhibitor of PLC. The inhibition was also observed in cell-attached patches when ACh was applied to the bath solution. In inside-out patches, direct application of guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (10 microM), Ca(2+) (5 microM), or diacylglycerol (DAG; 10 microM) produced no inhibition of TREK-2 in >75% of patches tested. Phosphatidic acid, a product of DAG kinase, had no effect on TREK-2. Pretreatment of cells with 20 microM wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol kinases, did not affect the inhibition or the recovery from inhibition of TREK-2, suggesting that phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate depletion did not mediate the inhibition. Pretreatment of cells with a protein kinase C inhibitor (bisindolylmaleimide, 10 microM) markedly inhibited ACh-induced inhibition of TREK-2. Mutation of two putative PKC sites (S326A, S359C) abolished inhibition by ACh. Mutation of these amino acids to aspartate to mimic the phosphorylated state resulted in diminished TREK-2 current and no inhibition by ACh. These results suggest that the agonist-induced inhibition of TREK-2 via M(3) receptor occurs primarily via PKC-mediated phosphorylation.