The M1P1 loop of TASK3 K2P channels apposes the selectivity filter and influences channel function

The Prostacyclin Analogue, Treprostinil, Used in the Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, is a Potent Antagonist of TREK-1 and TREK-2 Potassium Channels

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an aggressive vascular remodeling disease that carries a high morbidity and mortality rate. Treprostinil (Remodulin) is a stable prostacyclin analogue with potent vasodilatory and anti-proliferative activity, approved by the FDA and WHO as a treatment for PAH. A limitation of this therapy is the severe subcutaneous site pain and other forms of pain experienced by some patients, which can lead to significant non-compliance. TWIK-related potassium channels (TREK-1 and TREK-2) are highly expressed in sensory neurons, where they play a role in regulating sensory neuron excitability. Downregulation, inhibition or mutation of these channels leads to enhanced pain sensitivity. Using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings, we show, for the first time, that treprostinil is a potent antagonist of human TREK-1 and TREK-2 channels but not of TASK-1 channels. An increase in TASK-1 channel current was observed with prolonged incubation, consistent with its therapeutic role in PAH. To investigate treprostinil-induced inhibition of TREK, site-directed mutagenesis of a number of amino acids, identified as important for the action of other regulatory compounds, was carried out. We found that a gain of function mutation of TREK-1 (Y284A) attenuated treprostinil inhibition, while a selective activator of TREK channels, BL-1249, overcame the inhibitory effect of treprostinil. Our data suggests that subcutaneous site pain experienced during treprostinil therapy may result from inhibition of TREK channels near the injection site and that pre-activation of these channels prior to treatment has the potential to alleviate this nociceptive activity.

Two-Pore Domain Potassium Channels as Drug Targets: Anesthesia and Beyond

Two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels stabilize the resting membrane potential of both excitable and nonexcitable cells and, as such, are important regulators of cell activity. There are many conditions where pharmacological regulation of K2P channel activity would be of therapeutic benefit, including, but not limited to, atrial fibrillation, respiratory depression, pulmonary hypertension, neuropathic pain, migraine, depression, and some forms of cancer. Up until now, few if any selective pharmacological regulators of K2P channels have been available. However, recent publications of solved structures with small-molecule activators and inhibitors bound to TREK-1, TREK-2, and TASK-1 K2P channels have given insight into the pharmacophore requirements for compound binding to these sites. Together with the increasing availability of a number of novel, active, small-molecule compounds from K2P channel screening programs, these advances have opened up the possibility of rational activator and inhibitor design to selectively target K2P channels.

TASK Channels Pharmacology: New Challenges in Drug Design

Rational drug design targeting ion channels is an exciting and always evolving research field. New medicinal chemistry strategies are being implemented to explore the wild chemical space and unravel the molecular basis of the ion channels modulators binding mechanisms. TASK channels belong to the two-pore domain potassium channel family and are modulated by extracellular acidosis. They are extensively distributed along the cardiovascular and central nervous systems, and their expression is up- and downregulated in different cancer types, which makes them an attractive therapeutic target. However, TASK channels remain unexplored, and drugs designed to target these channels are poorly selective. Here, we review TASK channels properties and their known blockers and activators, considering the new challenges in ion channels drug design and focusing on the implementation of computational methodologies in the drug discovery process.

An allosteric ligand-binding site in the extracellular cap of K2P channels

Two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels generate leak currents that are responsible for the maintenance of the resting membrane potential, and they are thus potential drug targets for treating diseases. Here, we identify N-(4-cholorphenyl)-N-(2-(3,4-dihydrosioquinolin-2(1H)-yl)-2-oxoethyl)methanesulfonamide (TKDC) as an inhibitor of the TREK subfamily, including TREK-1, TREK-2 and TRAAK channels. Using TKDC as a chemical probe, a study combining computations, mutagenesis and electrophysiology reveals a K2P allosteric ligand-binding site located in the extracellular cap of the channels. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that ligand-induced allosteric conformational transitions lead to blockage of the ion conductive pathway. Using virtual screening approach, we identify other inhibitors targeting the extracellular allosteric ligand-binding site of these channels. Overall, our results suggest that the allosteric site at the extracellular cap of the K2P channels might be a promising drug target for these membrane proteins.

TREKs are members of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels, being important clinical targets. Here the authors identify inhibitors of K2P that bind to an allosteric site located in their extracellular cap, suggesting that it might be a promising drug target for these channels.

Intersubunit Concerted Cooperative and cis-Type Mechanisms Modulate Allosteric Gating in Two-Pore-Domain Potassium Channel TREK-2

In response to diverse stimuli, two-pore-domain potassium channel TREK-2 regulates cellular excitability, and hence plays a key role in mediating neuropathic pain, mood disorders and ischemia through. Although more and more input modalities are found to achieve their modulations via acting on the channel, the potential role of subunit interaction in these modulations remains to be explored. In the current study, the deletion (lack of proximal C-terminus, ΔpCt) or point mutation (G312A) was introduced into TREK-2 subunits to limit K⁺ conductance and used to report subunit stoichiometry. The constructs were then combined with wild type (WT) subunit to produce concatenated dimers with defined composition, and the gating kinetics of these channels to 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) and extracellular pH (pH_o) were characterized. Our results show that combination of WT and ΔpCt/G312A subunits reserves similar gating properties to that of WT dimmers, suggesting that the WT subunit exerts dominant and positive effects on the mutated one, and thus the two subunits controls channel gating via a concerted cooperative manner. Further introduction of ΔpCt into the latter subunit of heterodimeric channel G312A-WT or G312A-G312A attenuated their sensitivity to 2-APB and pH_o alkalization, implicating that these signals were transduced by a cis-type mechanism. Together, our findings elucidate the mechanisms for how the two subunits control the pore gating of TREK-2, in which both intersubunit concerted cooperative and cis-type manners modulate the allosteric regulations induced by 2-APB and pH_o alkalization.

Allosteric coupling between proximal C-terminus and selectivity filter is facilitated by the movement of transmembrane segment 4 in TREK-2 channel

TREK-2, a member of two-pore-domain potassium channel family, regulates cellular excitability in response to diverse stimuli. However, how such stimuli control channel function remains unclear. Here, by characterizing the responses of cytosolic proximal C-terminus deletant (ΔpCt) and transmembrane segment 4 (M4)-glycine hinge mutant (G312A) to 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), an activator of TREK-2, we show that the transduction initiated from pCt domain is allosterically coupled with the conformation of selectivity filter (SF) via the movements of M4, without depending on the original status of SF. Moreover, ΔpCt and G312A also exhibited blunted responses to extracellular alkalization, a model to induce SF conformational transition. These results suggest that the coupling between pCt domain and SF is bidirectional, and M4 movements are involved in both processes. Further mechanistic exploration reveals that the function of Phe316, a residue close to the C-terminus of M4, is associated with such communications. However, unlike TREK-2, M4-hinge of TREK-1 only controls the transmission from pCt to SF, rather than SF conformational changes triggered by pHo changes. Together, our findings uncover the unique gating properties of TREK-2, and elucidate the mechanisms for how the extracellular and intracellular stimuli harness the pore gating allosterically.

A monoclonal antibody against KCNK9 K(+) channel extracellular domain inhibits tumour growth and metastasis

Two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels act to maintain cell resting membrane potential--a prerequisite for many biological processes. KCNK9, a member of K2P family, is implicated in cancer, owing to its overexpression in human tumours and its ability to promote neoplastic cell survival and growth. However, KCNK9's underlying contributions to malignancy remain elusive due to the absence of specific modulators. Here we describe the development of monoclonal antibodies against the KCNK9 extracellular domain and their functional effects. We show that one antibody (Y4) with the highest affinity binding induces channel internalization. The addition of Y4 to KCNK9-expressing carcinoma cells reduces cell viability and increases cell death. Systemic administration of Y4 effectively inhibits growth of human lung cancer xenografts and murine breast cancer metastasis in mice. Evidence for Y4-mediated carcinoma cell autonomous and immune-dependent cytotoxicity is presented. Our study reveals that antibody-based KCNK9 targeting is a promising therapeutic strategy in KCNK9-expressing malignancies.

Involvement of leak K+ channels in neurological disorders

TWIK-related acid-sensitive K⁺ (TASK) channels give rise to leak K⁺ currents which influence the resting membrane potential and input resistance. The wide expression of TASK1 and TASK3 channels in the central nervous system suggests that these channels are critically involved in neurological disorders. It has become apparent in the past decade that TASK channels play critical roles for the development of various neurological disorders. In this review, I describe evidence for their roles in ischemia, epilepsy, learning/memory/cognition and apoptosis.

Molecular aspects of structure, gating, and physiology of pH-sensitive background K2P and Kir K+-transport channels

K(+) channels fulfill roles spanning from the control of excitability to the regulation of transepithelial transport. Here we review two groups of K(+) channels, pH-regulated K2P channels and the transport group of Kir channels. After considering advances in the molecular aspects of their gating based on structural and functional studies, we examine their participation in certain chosen physiological and pathophysiological scenarios. Crystal structures of K2P and Kir channels reveal rather unique features with important consequences for the gating mechanisms. Important tasks of these channels are discussed in kidney physiology and disease, K(+) homeostasis in the brain by Kir channel-equipped glia, and central functions in the hearing mechanism in the inner ear and in acid secretion by parietal cells in the stomach. K2P channels fulfill a crucial part in central chemoreception probably by virtue of their pH sensitivity and are central to adrenal secretion of aldosterone. Finally, some unorthodox behaviors of the selectivity filters of K2P channels might explain their normal and pathological functions. Although a great deal has been learned about structure, molecular details of gating, and physiological functions of K2P and Kir K(+)-transport channels, this has been only scratching at the surface. More molecular and animal studies are clearly needed to deepen our knowledge.

Transmembrane helix straightening and buckling underlies activation of mechanosensitive and thermosensitive K(2P) channels

Mechanical and thermal activation of ion channels is central to touch, thermosensation, and pain. The TRAAK/TREK K(2P) potassium channel subfamily produces background currents that alter neuronal excitability in response to pressure, temperature, signaling lipids, and anesthetics. How such diverse stimuli control channel function is unclear. Here we report structures of K(2P)4.1 (TRAAK) bearing C-type gate-activating mutations that reveal a tilting and straightening of the M4 inner transmembrane helix and a buckling of the M2 transmembrane helix. These conformational changes move M4 in a direction opposite to that in classical potassium channel activation mechanisms and open a passage lateral to the pore that faces the lipid bilayer inner leaflet. Together, our findings uncover a unique aspect of K(2P) modulation, indicate a means for how the K(2P) C-terminal cytoplasmic domain affects the C-type gate which lies ∼40Å away, and suggest how lipids and bilayer inner leaflet deformations may gate the channel.

The role of pH-sensitive TASK channels in central respiratory chemoreception

A number of the subunits within the family of K2P background K(+) channels are sensitive to changes in extracellular pH in the physiological range, making them likely candidates to mediate various pH-dependent processes. Based on expression patterns within several brainstem neuronal cell groups that are believed to function in CO2/H(+) regulation of breathing, three TASK subunits-TASK-1, TASK-2, and TASK-3-were specifically hypothesized to contribute to this central respiratory chemoreflex. For the acid-sensitive TASK-1 and TASK-3 channels, despite widespread expression at multiple levels within the brainstem respiratory control system (including presumptive chemoreceptor populations), experiments in knockout mice provided no evidence for their involvement in CO2 regulation of breathing. By contrast, the alkaline-activated TASK-2 channel has a more restricted brainstem distribution and was localized to the Phox2b-expressing chemoreceptor neurons of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN). Remarkably, in a Phox2b(27Ala/+) mouse genetic model of congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) that is characterized by reduced central respiratory chemosensitivity, selective ablation of Phox2b-expressing RTN neurons was accompanied by a corresponding loss of TASK-2 expression. Furthermore, genetic deletion of TASK-2 blunted RTN neuronal pH sensitivity in vitro, reduced alkaline-induced respiratory network inhibition in situ and diminished the ventilatory response to CO2/H(+) in vivo. Notably, a subpopulation of RTN neurons from TASK-2(-/-) mice retained their pH sensitivity, at least in part due to a residual pH-sensitive background K(+) current, suggesting that other mechanisms (and perhaps other K2P channels) for RTN neuronal pH sensitivity are yet to be identified.

Mitochondrial channels: ion fluxes and more

The field of mitochondrial ion channels has recently seen substantial progress, including the molecular identification of some of the channels. An integrative approach using genetics, electrophysiology, pharmacology, and cell biology to clarify the roles of these channels has thus become possible. It is by now clear that many of these channels are important for energy supply by the mitochondria and have a major impact on the fate of the entire cell as well. The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of the electrophysiological properties, molecular identity, and pathophysiological functions of the mitochondrial ion channels studied so far and to highlight possible therapeutic perspectives based on current information.

Recovery of current through mutated TASK3 potassium channels underlying Birk Barel syndrome

TASK3 (TWIK-related acid-sensitive K(+) channel 3) potassium channels are members of the two-pore-domain potassium channel family. They are responsible for background leak potassium currents found in many cell types. TASK3 channels are genetically imprinted, and a mutation in TASK3 (G236R) is responsible for Birk Barel mental retardation dysmorphism syndrome, a maternally transmitted developmental disorder. This syndrome may arise from a neuronal migration defect during development caused by dysfunctional TASK3 channels. Through the use of whole-cell electrophysiologic recordings, we have found that, although G236R mutated TASK3 channels give rise to a functional current, this current is significantly smaller in an outward direction when compared with wild-type (WT) TASK3 channels. In contrast to WT TASK3 channels, the current is inwardly rectifying. Furthermore, the current through mutated channels is differentially sensitive to a number of regulators, such as extracellular acidification, extracellular zinc, and activation of Gαq-coupled muscarinic (M3) receptors, compared with WT TASK3 channels. The reduced outward current through mutated TASK3_G236R channels can be overcome, at least in part, by both a gain-of-function additional mutation of TASK3 channels (A237T) or by application of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flufenamic acid (FFA; 2-{[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]amino}benzoic acid). FFA produces a significantly greater enhancement of current through mutated channels than through WT TASK3 channels. We propose that pharmacologic enhancement of mutated TASK3 channel current during development may, therefore, provide a potentially useful therapeutic strategy in the treatment of Birk Barel syndrome.

Enhancement of TWIK-related acid-sensitive potassium channel 3 (TASK3) two-pore domain potassium channel activity by tumor necrosis factor α

TASK3 two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels are responsible for native leak K channels in many cell types which regulate cell resting membrane potential and excitability. In addition, TASK3 channels contribute to the regulation of cellular potassium homeostasis. Because TASK3 channels are important for cell viability, having putative roles in both neuronal apoptosis and oncogenesis, we sought to determine their behavior under inflammatory conditions by investigating the effect of TNFα on TASK3 channel current. TASK3 channels were expressed in tsA-201 cells, and the current through them was measured using whole cell voltage clamp recordings. We show that THP-1 human myeloid leukemia monocytes, co-cultured with hTASK3-transfected tsA-201 cells, can be activated by the specific Toll-like receptor 7/8 activator, R848, to release TNFα that subsequently enhances hTASK3 current. Both hTASK3 and mTASK3 channel activity is increased by incubation with recombinant TNFα (10 ng/ml for 2-15 h), but other K2P channels (hTASK1, hTASK2, hTREK1, and hTRESK) are unaffected. This enhancement by TNFα is not due to alterations in levels of channel expression at the membrane but rather to an alteration in channel gating. The enhancement by TNFα can be blocked by extracellular acidification but persists for mutated TASK3 (H98A) channels that are no longer acid-sensitive even in an acidic extracellular environment. TNFα action on TASK3 channels is mediated through the intracellular C terminus of the channel. Furthermore, it occurs through the ASK1 pathway and is JNK- and p38-dependent. In combination, TNFα activation and TASK3 channel activity can promote cellular apoptosis.

Protein kinase A and C regulate leak potassium currents in freshly isolated vascular myocytes from the aorta

We tested the hypothesis that protein kinase A (PKA) inhibits K2P currents activated by protein kinase C (PKC) in freshly isolated aortic myocytes. PDBu, the PKC agonist, applied extracellularly, increased the amplitude of the K2P currents in the presence of the “cocktail” of K⁺ channel blockers. Gö 6976 significantly reduced the increase of the K2P currents by PDBu suggesting the involvement of either α or β isoenzymes of PKC. We found that forskolin, or membrane permeable cAMP, did not inhibit K2P currents activated by the PKC. However, when PKA agonists were added prior to PDBu, they produced a strong decrease in the K2P current amplitudes activated by PKC. Inhibition of PDBu-elicited K2P currents by cAMP agonists was not prevented by the treatment of vascular smooth muscle cells with PKA antagonists (H-89 and Rp-cAMPs). Zn²⁺ and Hg²⁺ inhibited K2P currents in one population of cells, produced biphasic responses in another population, and increased the amplitude of the PDBu-elicited K⁺ currents in a third population of myocytes, suggesting expression of several K2P channel types. We found that cAMP agonists inhibited biphasic responses and increase of amplitude of the PDBu-elicited K2P currents produced by Zn²⁺ and Hg². 6-Bnz-cAMp produced a significantly altered pH sensitivity of PDBu-elicited K2P-currents, suggesting the inhibition of alkaline-activated K2P-currents. These results indicate that 6-Bnz-cAMP and other cAMP analogs may inhibit K2P currents through a PKA-independent mechanism. cAMP analogs may interact with unidentified proteins involved in K2P channel regulation. This novel cellular mechanism could provide insights into the interplay between PKC and PKA pathways that regulate vascular tone.

An extracellular ion pathway plays a central role in the cooperative gating of a K(2P) K+ channel by extracellular pH

Proton-gated TASK-3 K(+) channel belongs to the K(2P) family of proteins that underlie the K(+) leak setting the membrane potential in all cells. TASK-3 is under cooperative gating control by extracellular [H(+)]. Use of recently solved K(2P) structures allows us to explore the molecular mechanism of TASK-3 cooperative pH gating. Tunnel-like side portals define an extracellular ion pathway to the selectivity filter. We use a combination of molecular modeling and functional assays to show that pH-sensing histidine residues and K(+) ions mutually interact electrostatically in the confines of the extracellular ion pathway. K(+) ions modulate the pK(a) of sensing histidine side chains whose charge states in turn determine the open/closed transition of the channel pore. Cooperativity, and therefore steep dependence of TASK-3 K(+) channel activity on extracellular pH, is dependent on an effect of the permeant ion on the channel pH(o) sensors.

Acid-sensitive TWIK and TASK two-pore domain potassium channels change ion selectivity and become permeable to sodium in extracellular acidification

Two-pore domain K(+) channels (K2P) mediate background K(+) conductance and play a key role in a variety of cellular functions. Among the 15 mammalian K2P isoforms, TWIK-1, TASK-1, and TASK-3 K(+) channels are sensitive to extracellular acidification. Lowered or acidic extracellular pH (pH(o)) strongly inhibits outward currents through these K2P channels. However, the mechanism of how low pH(o) affects these acid-sensitive K2P channels is not well understood. Here we show that in Na(+)-based bath solutions with physiological K(+) gradients, lowered pH(o) largely shifts the reversal potential of TWIK-1, TASK-1, and TASK-3 K(+) channels, which are heterologously expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, into the depolarizing direction and significantly increases their Na(+) to K(+) relative permeability. Low pH(o)-induced inhibitions in these acid-sensitive K2P channels are more profound in Na(+)-based bath solutions than in channel-impermeable N-methyl-D-glucamine-based bath solutions, consistent with increases in the Na(+) to K(+) relative permeability and decreases in electrochemical driving forces of outward K(+) currents of the channels. These findings indicate that TWIK-1, TASK-1, and TASK-3 K(+) channels change ion selectivity in response to lowered pH(o), provide insights on the understanding of how extracellular acidification modulates acid-sensitive K2P channels, and imply that these acid-sensitive K2P channels may regulate cellular function with dynamic changes in their ion selectivity.

Relative movements of transmembrane regions at the outer mouth of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator channel pore during channel gating

Multiple transmembrane (TM) segments line the pore of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator Cl(-) channel; however, the relative alignment of these TMs and their relative movements during channel gating are unknown. To gain three-dimensional structural information on the outer pore, we have used patch clamp recording to study the proximity of pairs of cysteine side chains introduced into TMs 6 and 11, using both disulfide cross-linking and Cd(2+) coordination. Following channel activation, disulfide bonds could apparently be formed between three cysteine pairs (of 15 studied): R334C/T1122C, R334C/G1127C, and T338C/S1118C. To examine the state dependence of cross-linking, we combined these cysteine mutations with a nucleotide-binding domain mutation (E1371Q) that stabilizes the channel open state. Investigation of the effects of the E1371Q mutation on disulfide bond formation and Cd(2+) coordination suggests that although R334C/T1122C and T338C/S1118C are closer together in the channel open state, R334C/G1127C are close together and can form disulfide bonds only when the channel is closed. These results provide important new information on the three-dimensional structure of the outer mouth of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator channel pore: TMs 6 and 11 are close enough together to form disulfide bonds in both open and closed channels. Moreover, the altered relative locations of residues in open and in closed channels that we infer allow us to propose that channel opening and closing may be associated with a relative translational movement of TMs 6 and 11, with TM6 moving "down" (toward the cytoplasm) during channel opening.

Metabolic and thermal stimuli control K(2P)2.1 (TREK-1) through modular sensory and gating domains

The two-pore domain potassium channel K_2P2.1 (TREK-1) responds to extracellular and intracellular stimuli, including pH and temperature. This study elucidates how the intracellular sensor element relays metabolic and thermal stimuli to the extracellular C-type gating element.

K_2P2.1 (TREK-1) is a polymodal two-pore domain leak potassium channel that responds to external pH, GPCR-mediated phosphorylation signals, and temperature through the action of distinct sensors within the channel. How the various intracellular and extracellular sensory elements control channel function remains unresolved. Here, we show that the K_2P2.1 (TREK-1) intracellular C-terminal tail (Ct), a major sensory element of the channel, perceives metabolic and thermal commands and relays them to the extracellular C-type gate through transmembrane helix M4 and pore helix 1. By decoupling Ct from the pore-forming core, we further demonstrate that Ct is the primary heat-sensing element of the channel, whereas, in contrast, the pore domain lacks robust temperature sensitivity. Together, our findings outline a mechanism for signal transduction within K_2P2.1 (TREK-1) in which there is a clear crosstalk between the C-type gate and intracellular Ct domain. In addition, our findings support the general notion of the existence of modular temperature-sensing domains in temperature-sensitive ion channels. This marked distinction between gating and sensory elements suggests a general design principle that may underlie the function of a variety of temperature-sensitive channels.

Molecular physiology of pH-sensitive background K(2P) channels

Background K(2P) channels are tightly regulated by different stimuli including variations of external and internal pH. pH sensitivity relies on proton-sensing residues that influence channel gating and activity. Gene inactivation in the mouse is a revealing implication of K(2P) channels in many physiological functions ranging from hormone secretion to central respiratory adaptation. Surprisingly, only a few phenotypic traits of these mice have yet been directly related to the pH sensitivity of K(2P) channels.

Neurotensin inhibits background K+ channels and facilitates glutamatergic transmission in rat spinal cord dorsal horn

Neurotensin (NT) is a neuropeptide involved in the modulation of nociception. We have investigated the actions of NT on cultured postnatal rat spinal cord dorsal horn (DH) neurons. NT induced an inward current associated with a decrease in membrane conductance in 46% of the neurons and increased the frequency of glutamatergic miniature excitatory synaptic currents in 37% of the neurons. Similar effects were observed in acute slices. Both effects of NT were reproduced by the selective NTS1 agonist JMV449 and blocked by the NTS1 antagonist SR48692 and the NTS1/NTS2 antagonist SR142948A. The NTS2 agonist levocabastine had no effect. The actions of NT persisted after inactivation of G(i/o) proteins by pertussis toxin but were absent after inactivation of protein kinase C (PKC) by chelerythrine or inhibition of the MAPK (ERK1/2) pathway by PD98059. Pre- and postsynaptic effects of NT were insensitive to classical voltage- and Ca(2+) -dependent K(+) channel blockers. The K(+) conductance inhibited by NT was blocked by Ba(2+) and displayed no or little inward rectification, despite the presence of strongly rectifying Ba(2+) -sensitive K(+) conductance in these neurons. This suggested that NT blocked two-pore domain (K2P) background K(+) -channels rather than inwardly rectifying K(+) channels. Zn(2+) ions, which inhibit TRESK and TASK-3 K2P channels, decreased NT-induced current. Our results indicate that in DH neurons NT activates NTS1 receptors which, via the PKC-dependent activation of the MAPK (ERK1/2) pathway, depolarize the postsynaptic neuron and increase the synaptic release of glutamate. These actions of NT might modulate the transfer and the integration of somatosensory information in the DH.

The pore structure and gating mechanism of K2P channels

Two-pore domain (K2P) potassium channels are important regulators of cellular electrical excitability. However, the structure of these channels and their gating mechanism, in particular the role of the bundle-crossing gate, are not well understood. Here, we report that quaternary ammonium (QA) ions bind with high-affinity deep within the pore of TREK-1 and have free access to their binding site before channel activation by intracellular pH or pressure. This demonstrates that, unlike most other K(+) channels, the bundle-crossing gate in this K2P channel is constitutively open. Furthermore, we used QA ions to probe the pore structure of TREK-1 by systematic scanning mutagenesis and comparison of these results with different possible structural models. This revealed that the TREK-1 pore most closely resembles the open-state structure of KvAP. We also found that mutations close to the selectivity filter and the nature of the permeant ion profoundly influence TREK-1 channel gating. These results demonstrate that the primary activation mechanisms in TREK-1 reside close to, or within the selectivity filter and do not involve gating at the cytoplasmic bundle crossing.

Ion channels as novel therapeutic targets in the treatment of pain

OBJECTIVES

This review considers ion channels as potential novel therapeutic targets, particularly in the treatment of pain.

KEY FINDINGS

Ion channel proteins underlie electrical signalling throughout the body and are important targets for existing therapeutic agents. Nevertheless, ion channels remain a relatively underexploited family of proteins for therapeutic interventions. A number of recent advances in both technology and knowledge suggest that these proteins are promising targets for future therapeutic development. For example, there has been considerable recent improvement in high-throughput screening technologies following the need for pharmaceutical companies to screen against compounds which block human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channels. Similarly an increased awareness of the importance of ion channels in disease states such as epilepsy, ataxia, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes and cystic fibrosis has been revealed through studies of genetic mutations in humans and genetic ablation studies in animals. Furthermore, recent advances in the understanding of ion channel structure and how this relates to their function has provided significant new insights into where exactly on the ion channel protein novel therapeutic agents might be developed to target. In the particular area of pain research a number of different ion channel subtypes have been identified (including certain sodium, potassium and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels).

SUMMARY

It seems likely that new therapies will arise that target ion channels. In the treatment of pain, for example, novel agents targeting TRPV1 channels are already showing considerable therapeutic promise.

Trafficking of neuronal two pore domain potassium channels

The activity of two pore domain potassium (K2P) channels regulates neuronal excitability and cell firing. Post-translational regulation of K2P channel trafficking to the membrane controls the number of functional channels at the neuronal membrane affecting the functional properties of neurons. In this review, we describe the general features of K channel trafficking from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the plasma membrane via the Golgi apparatus then focus on established regulatory mechanisms for K2P channel trafficking. We describe the regulation of trafficking of TASK channels from the ER or their retention within the ER and consider the competing hypotheses for the roles of the chaperone proteins 14-3-3, COP1 and p11 in these processes and where these proteins bind to TASK channels. We also describe the localisation of TREK channels to particular regions of the neuronal membrane and the involvement of the TREK channel binding partners AKAP150 and Mtap2 in this localisation. We describe the roles of other K2P channel binding partners including Arf6, EFA6 and SUMO for TWIK1 channels and Vpu for TASK1 channels. Finally, we consider the potential importance of K2P channel trafficking in a number of disease states such as neuropathic pain and cancer and the protection of neurons from ischemic damage. We suggest that a better understanding of the mechanisms and regulations that underpin the trafficking of K2P channels to the plasma membrane and to localised regions therein may considerably enhance the probability of future therapeutic advances in these areas.

Gating of two pore domain potassium channels

Two-pore-domain potassium (K2P) channels are responsible for background leak currents which regulate the membrane potential and excitability of many cell types. Their activity is modulated by a variety of chemical and physical stimuli which act to increase or decrease the open probability of individual K2P channels. Crystallographic data and homology modelling suggest that all K(+) channels possess a highly conserved structure for ion selectivity and gating mechanisms. Like other K(+) channels, K2P channels are thought to have two primary conserved gating mechanisms: an inactivation (or C-type) gate at the selectivity filter close to the extracellular side of the channel and an activation gate at the intracellular entrance to the channel involving key, identified, hinge glycine residues. Zinc and hydrogen ions regulate Drosophila KCNK0 and mammalian TASK channels, respectively, by interacting with the inactivation gate of these channels. In contrast, the voltage dependence of TASK3 channels is mediated through its activation gate. For KCNK0 it has been shown that the gates display positive cooperativity. It is of much interest to determine whether other K2P regulatory compounds interact with either the activation gate or the inactivation gate to alter channel activity or, indeed, whether additional regulatory gating pathways exist.

Molecular background of leak K+ currents: two-pore domain potassium channels

Two-pore domain K(+) (K(2P)) channels give rise to leak (also called background) K(+) currents. The well-known role of background K(+) currents is to stabilize the negative resting membrane potential and counterbalance depolarization. However, it has become apparent in the past decade (during the detailed examination of the cloned and corresponding native K(2P) channel types) that this primary hyperpolarizing action is not performed passively. The K(2P) channels are regulated by a wide variety of voltage-independent factors. Basic physicochemical parameters (e.g., pH, temperature, membrane stretch) and also several intracellular signaling pathways substantially and specifically modulate the different members of the six K(2P) channel subfamilies (TWIK, TREK, TASK, TALK, THIK, and TRESK). The deep implication in diverse physiological processes, the circumscribed expression pattern of the different channels, and the interesting pharmacological profile brought the K(2P) channel family into the spotlight. In this review, we focus on the physiological roles of K(2P) channels in the most extensively investigated cell types, with special emphasis on the molecular mechanisms of channel regulation.

Two-pore domain k(+) channels and their role in chemoreception

A number of tandem P-domain K(+)- channels (K(2)P) generate background K(+)-currents similar to those found in enteroreceptors that sense a diverse range of physiological stimuli including blood pH, carbon dioxide, oxygen, potassium and glucose. This review presents an overview of the properties of both cloned K(2)P tandem-P-domain K-channels and the endogenous chemosensitive background K-currents found in central chemoreceptors, peripheral chemoreceptors, the adrenal gland and the hypothalamus. Although the identity of many of these endogenous channels has yet to be confirmed they show striking similarities to a number of K(2)P channels especially those of the TASK subgroup. Moreover these channels seem often (albeit not exclusively) to be involved in pH and nutrient/metabolic sensing.

Patents related to therapeutic activation of K(ATP) and K(2P) potassium channels for neuroprotection: ischemic/hypoxic/anoxic injury and general anesthetics

BACKGROUND

Mechanisms of neuroprotection encompass energy deficits in brain arising from insufficient oxygen and glucose levels following respiratory failure; ischemia or stroke, which produce metabolic stresses that lead to unconsciousness and seizures; and the effects of general anesthetics. Foremost among those K(+) channels viewed as important for neuroprotection are ATP-sensitive (K(ATP)) channels, which belong to the family of inwardly rectifying K(+) channels (K(ir)) and contain a sulfonylurea subunit (SUR1 or SUR2) combined with either K(ir)6.1 (KCNJ8) or K(ir)6.2 (KCNJ11) channel pore-forming alpha-subunits, and various members of the tandem two-pore or background (K(2P)) K(+) channel family, including K(2P)1.1 (KCNK1 or TWIK1), K(2P)2.1 (KCNK2 or TREK/TREK1), K(2P)3.1 (KCNK3 or TASK), K(2P)4.1 (KCNK4 or TRAAK), and K(2P)10.1 (KCNK10 or TREK2).

OBJECTIVES

This review covers patents and patent applications related to inventions of therapeutics, compound screening methods and diagnostics, including K(ATP) channel openers and blockers, as well as K(ATP) and K(2P) nucleic/amino acid sequences and proteins, vectors, transformed cells and transgenic animals. Although the focus of this patent review is on brain and neuroprotection, patents covering inventions of K(ATP) channel openers for cardioprotection, diabetes mellitus and obesity, where relevant, are addressed.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS

Overall, an important emerging therapeutic mechanism underlying neuroprotection is activation/opening of K(ATP) and K(2P) channels. To this end substantial progress has been made in identifying and patenting agents that target K(ATP) channels. However, current K(2P) channels patents encompass compound screening and diagnostics methodologies, reflecting an earlier 'discovery' stage (target identification/validation) than K(ATP) in the drug development pipeline; this reveals a wide-open field for the discovery and development of K(2P)-targeting compounds.

Gating the pore of potassium leak channels

A key feature of potassium channel function is the ability to switch between conducting and non-conducting states by undergoing conformational changes in response to cellular or extracellular signals. Such switching is facilitated by the mechanical coupling of gating domain movements to pore opening and closing. Two-pore domain potassium channels (K(2P)) conduct leak or background potassium-selective currents that are mostly time- and voltage-independent. These channels play a significant role in setting the cell resting membrane potential and, therefore modulate cell responsiveness and excitability. Thus, K(2P) channels are key players in numerous physiological processes and were recently shown to also be involved in human pathologies. It is well established that K(2P) channel conductance, open probability and cell surface expression are significantly modulated by various physical and chemical stimuli. However, in understanding how such signals are translated into conformational changes that open or close the channels gate, there remain more open questions than answers. A growing line of evidence suggests that the outer pore area assumes a critical role in gating K(2P) channels, in a manner reminiscent of C-type inactivation of voltage-gated potassium channels. In some K(2P) channels, this gating mechanism is facilitated in response to external pH levels. Recently, it was suggested that K(2P) channels also possess a lower activation gate that is positively coupled to the outer pore gate. The purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date summary of research describing the conformational changes and gating events that take place at the K(2P) channel ion-conducting pathway during the channel regulation.