Anion permeation in Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels

The Tmem16a chloride channel is required for mucin maturation after secretion from goblet-like cells in the Xenopus tropicalis tadpole skin

The TMEM16A chloride channel is proposed as a therapeutic target in cystic fibrosis, where activation of this ion channel might restore airway surface hydration and mitigate respiratory symptoms. While TMEM16A is associated with increased mucin production under stimulated or pro-inflammatory conditions, its role in baseline mucin production, secretion and/or maturation is less well understood. Here, we use the Xenopus tadpole skin mucociliary surface as a model of human upper airway epithelium to study Tmem16a function in mucus production. We found that Xenopus tropicalis Tmem16a is present at the apical membrane surface of tadpole skin small secretory cells that express canonical markers of mammalian "goblet cells" such as Foxa1 and spdef. X. tropicalis Tmem16a functions as a voltage-gated, calcium-activated chloride channel when transfected into mammalian cells in culture. Depletion of Tmem16a from the tadpole skin results in dysregulated mucin maturation post-secretion, with secreted mucins having a disrupted molecular size distribution and altered morphology assessed by sucrose gradient centrifugation and electron microscopy, respectively. Our results show that in the Xenopus tadpole skin, Tmem16a is necessary for normal mucus barrier formation and demonstrate the utility of this model system to discover new biology relevant to human mucosal biology in health and disease.

Insights into the function and regulation of the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A

The TMEM16A channel, a member of the TMEM16 protein family comprising chloride (Cl-) channels and lipid scramblases, is activated by the free intracellular Ca2+ increments produced by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-induced Ca2+ release after GqPCRs or Ca2+ entry through cationic channels. It is a ubiquitous transmembrane protein that participates in multiple physiological functions essential to mammals' lives. TMEM16A structure contains two identical 10-segment monomers joined at their transmembrane segment 10. Each monomer harbours one independent hourglass-shaped pore gated by Ca2+ ligation to an orthosteric site adjacent to the pore and controlled by two gates. The orthosteric site is created by assembling negatively charged glutamate side chains near the pore´s cytosolic end. When empty, this site generates an electrostatic barrier that controls channel rectification. In addition, an isoleucine-triad forms a hydrophobic gate at the boundary of the cytosolic vestibule and the inner side of the neck. When the cytosolic Ca2+ rises, one or two Ca2+ ions bind to the orthosteric site in a voltage (V)-dependent manner, thus neutralising the electrostatic barrier and triggering an allosteric gating mechanism propagating via transmembrane segment 6 to the hydrophobic gate. These coordinated events lead to pore opening, allowing the Cl- flux to ensure the physiological response. The Ca2+-dependent function of TMEM16A is highly regulated. Anions with higher permeability than Cl- facilitate V dependence by increasing the Ca2+ sensitivity, intracellular protons can replace Ca2+ and induce channel opening, and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate bound to four cytosolic sites likely maintains Ca2+ sensitivity. Additional regulation is afforded by cytosolic proteins, most likely by phosphorylation and protein-protein interaction mechanisms.

Function and Regulation of the Calcium-Activated Chloride Channel Anoctamin 1 (TMEM16A)

Various human tissues express the calcium-activated chloride channel Anoctamin 1 (ANO1), also known as TMEM16A. ANO1 allows the passive chloride flux that controls different physiological functions ranging from muscle contraction, fluid and hormone secretion, gastrointestinal motility, and electrical excitability. Overexpression of ANO1 is associated with pathological conditions such as hypertension and cancer. The molecular cloning of ANO1 has led to a surge in structural, functional, and physiological studies of the channel in several tissues. ANO1 is a homodimer channel harboring two pores - one in each monomer - that work independently. Each pore is activated by voltage-dependent binding of two intracellular calcium ions to a high-affinity-binding site. In addition, the binding of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate to sites scattered throughout the cytosolic side of the protein aids the calcium activation process. Furthermore, many pharmacological studies have established ANO1 as a target of promising compounds that could treat several illnesses. This chapter describes our current understanding of the physiological roles of ANO1 and its regulation under physiological conditions as well as new pharmacological compounds with potential therapeutic applications.

A structure-activity approach towards the toxicity assessment of multicomponent metal oxide nanomaterials

The increase of human and environmental exposure to engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) due to the emergence of nanotechnology has raised concerns over their safety. The challenging nature of in vivo and in vitro toxicity assessment methods for ENMs, has led to emerging in silico techniques for ENM toxicity assessment, such as structure-activity relationship (SAR) models. Although such approaches have been extensively developed for the case of single-component nanomaterials, the case of multicomponent nanomaterials (MCNMs) has not been thoroughly addressed. In this paper, we present a SAR approach for the case metal and metal oxide MCNMs. The developed SAR framework is built using a dataset of 796 individual toxicity measurements for 340 different MCNMs, towards human cells, mammalian cells, and bacteria. The novelty of the approach lies in the multicomponent nature of the nanomaterials, as well as the size, diversity and heterogeneous nature of the dataset used. Furthermore, the approach used to calculate descriptors for surface loaded MCNMs, and the mechanistic insight provided by the model results can assist the understanding of MCNM toxicity. The developed models are able to correctly predict the toxic class of the MCNMs in the heterogeneous dataset, towards a wide range of human cells, mammalian cells and bacteria. Using the abovementioned approach, the principal toxicity pathways and mechanisms are identified, allowing a more holistic understanding of metal oxide MCNM toxicity.

Nontoxic Artificial Chloride Channel Formation in Epithelial Cells by Isophthalic Acid-Based Small Molecules

Artificial channels capable of facilitating the transport of Cl^- ions across cell membranes while being nontoxic to the cells are rare. Such synthetic ion channels can mimic the functions of membrane transport proteins and, therefore, have the potential to treat channelopathies by replacing defective ion channels. Here we report isophthalic acid-based structurally simple molecules 1 a and 2 a, which self-assemble to render supramolecular nanochannels that allow selective transport of Cl^- ions. As evident from the single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, the self-assembly is governed by intermolecular hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking interactions. The MD simulation studies for both 1 a and 2 a confirmed the formation of stable Cl^- channel assembly in the lipid membrane and Cl^- transport through them. The MQAE assay showed the efficacy of the compounds in delivering Cl^- ions into cells, and the MTT assays proved that the compounds are nontoxic to cells even at a concentration of 100 μM.

Bicarbonate boosts flash response amplitude to augment absolute sensitivity and extend dynamic range in murine retinal rods

Rod photoreceptors in the retina adjust their responsiveness and sensitivity so that they can continue to provide meaningful information over a wide range of light intensities. By stimulating membrane guanylate cyclases in the outer segment to synthesize cGMP at a faster rate in a Ca²⁺-dependent fashion, bicarbonate increases the circulating "dark" current and accelerates flash response kinetics in amphibian rods. Compared to amphibian rods, mammalian rods are smaller in size, operate at a higher temperature, and express visual cascade proteins with somewhat different biochemical properties. Here, we evaluated the role of bicarbonate in rods of cpfl3 mice. These mice are deficient in their expression of functional cone transducin, Gnat2, making cones very insensitive to light, so the rod response to light could be observed in isolation in electroretinogram recordings. Bicarbonate increased the dark current and absolute sensitivity and quickened flash response recovery in mouse rods to a greater extent than in amphibian rods. In addition, bicarbonate enabled mouse rods to respond over a range that extended to dimmer flashes. Larger flash responses may have resulted in part from a bicarbonate-induced elevation in intracellular pH. However, high pH alone had little effect on flash response recovery kinetics and even suppressed the accelerating effect of bicarbonate, consistent with a direct, modulatory action of bicarbonate on Ca²⁺- dependent, membrane guanylate cyclase activity.

Glutamate Permeability of Chicken Best1

Bestrophin-1 (Best1) is a calcium (Ca²⁺)-activated chloride (Cl^-) channel which has a phylogenetically conserved channel structure with an aperture and neck in the ion-conducting pathway. Mammalian mouse Best1 (mBest1) has been known to have a permeability for large organic anions including gluconate, glutamate, and D-serine, in addition to several small monovalent anions, such as Cl^‑, bromine (Br^-), iodine (I^-), and thiocyanate (SCN^-). However, it is still unclear whether non-mammalian Best1 has a glutamate permeability through the ion-conducting pathway. Here, we report that chicken Best1 (cBest1) is permeable to glutamate in a Ca²⁺-dependent manner. The molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation showed a glutamate binding at the aperture and neck of cBest1 and a glutamate permeation through the ion-conducting pore, respectively. Moreover, through electrophysiological recordings, we calculated the permeability ratio of glutamate to Cl^- (P_Glutamate/P_Cl) as 0.28 based on the reversal potential shift by ion substitution from Cl^- to glutamate in the internal solution. Finally, we directly detected the Ca²⁺-dependent glutamate release through cBest1 using the ultrasensitive two-cell sniffer patch technique. Our results propose that Best1 homologs from non-mammalian (cBest1) to mammalian (mBest1) have a conserved permeability for glutamate.

Gating and anion selectivity are reciprocally regulated in TMEM16A (ANO1)

Numerous essential physiological processes depend on the TMEM16A-mediated Ca2+-activated chloride fluxes. Extensive structure-function studies have helped to elucidate the Ca2+ gating mechanism of TMEM16A, revealing a Ca2+-sensing element close to the anion pore that alters conduction. However, substrate selection and the substrate-gating relationship in TMEM16A remain less explored. Here, we study the gating-permeant anion relationship on mouse TMEM16A expressed in HEK 293 cells using electrophysiological recordings coupled with site-directed mutagenesis. We show that the apparent Ca2+ sensitivity of TMEM16A increased with highly permeant anions and SCN- mole fractions, likely by stabilizing bound Ca2+. Conversely, mutations at crucial gating elements, including the Ca2+-binding site 1, the transmembrane helix 6 (TM6), and the hydrophobic gate, impaired the anion permeability and selectivity of TMEM16A. Finally, we found that, unlike anion-selective wild-type channels, the voltage dependence of unselective TMEM16A mutant channels was less sensitive to SCN-. Therefore, our work identifies structural determinants of selectivity at the Ca2+ site, TM6, and hydrophobic gate and reveals a reciprocal regulation of gating and selectivity. We suggest that this regulation is essential to set ionic selectivity and the Ca2+ and voltage sensitivities in TMEM16A.

Polymodal Control of TMEM16x Channels and Scramblases

The TMEM16A/anoctamin-1 calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) contributes to a range of vital functions, such as the control of vascular tone and epithelial ion transport. The channel is a founding member of a family of 10 proteins (TMEM16x) with varied functions; some members (i.e., TMEM16A and TMEM16B) serve as CaCCs, while others are lipid scramblases, combine channel and scramblase function, or perform additional cellular roles. TMEM16x proteins are typically activated by agonist-induced Ca2+ release evoked by Gq-protein-coupled receptor (GqPCR) activation; thus, TMEM16x proteins link Ca2+-signalling with cell electrical activity and/or lipid transport. Recent studies demonstrate that a range of other cellular factors—including plasmalemmal lipids, pH, hypoxia, ATP and auxiliary proteins—also control the activity of the TMEM16A channel and its paralogues, suggesting that the TMEM16x proteins are effectively polymodal sensors of cellular homeostasis. Here, we review the molecular pathophysiology, structural biology, and mechanisms of regulation of TMEM16x proteins by multiple cellular factors.

Bicarbonate ion transport by the electrogenic Na+ /HCO3- cotransporter, NBCe1, is required for normal electrical slow-wave activity in mouse small intestine

BACKGROUND

Normal gastrointestinal motility depends on electrical slow-wave activity generated by interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in the tunica muscularis of the gastrointestinal tract. A requirement for HCO₃^- in extracellular solutions used to record slow waves indicates a role for HCO₃^- transport in ICC pacemaking. The Slc4a4 gene transcript encoding the electrogenic Na⁺ /HCO₃^- cotransporter, NBCe1, is enriched in mouse small intestinal myenteric region ICC (ICC-MY) that generate slow waves. This study aimed to determine how extracellular HCO₃^- concentrations affect electrical activity in mouse small intestine and to determine the contribution of NBCe1 activity to these effects.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry and sharp electrode electrical recordings were used.

KEY RESULTS

The NBCe1 immunoreactivity was localized to ICC-MY of the tunica muscularis. In sharp electrode electrical recordings, removal of HCO₃^- from extracellular solutions caused significant, reversible, depolarization of the smooth muscle and a reduction in slow-wave amplitude and frequency. In 100 mM HCO₃^- , the muscle hyperpolarized and slow wave amplitude and frequency increased. The effects of replacing extracellular Na⁺ with Li⁺ , an ion that does not support NBCe1 activity, were similar to, but larger than, the effects of removing HCO₃^- . There were no additional changes to electrical activity when HCO₃^- was removed from Li⁺ containing solutions. The Na⁺ /HCO₃^- cotransport inhibitor, S-0859 (30µM) significantly reduced the effect of removing HCO₃^- on electrical activity.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

These studies demonstrate a major role for Na⁺ /HCO₃^- cotransport by NBCe1 in electrical activity of mouse small intestine and indicated that regulation of intracellular acid:base homeostasis contributes to generation of normal pacemaker activity in the gastrointestinal tract.

Ion Channels, Transporters, and Sensors Interact with the Acidic Tumor Microenvironment to Modify Cancer Progression

Solid tumors, including breast carcinomas, are heterogeneous but typically characterized by elevated cellular turnover and metabolism, diffusion limitations based on the complex tumor architecture, and abnormal intra- and extracellular ion compositions particularly as regards acid-base equivalents. Carcinogenesis-related alterations in expression and function of ion channels and transporters, cellular energy levels, and organellar H⁺ sequestration further modify the acid-base composition within tumors and influence cancer cell functions, including cell proliferation, migration, and survival. Cancer cells defend their cytosolic pH and HCO₃^- concentrations better than normal cells when challenged with the marked deviations in extracellular H⁺, HCO₃^-, and lactate concentrations typical of the tumor microenvironment. Ionic gradients determine the driving forces for ion transporters and channels and influence the membrane potential. Cancer and stromal cells also sense abnormal ion concentrations via intra- and extracellular receptors that modify cancer progression and prognosis. With emphasis on breast cancer, the current review first addresses the altered ion composition and the changes in expression and functional activity of ion channels and transporters in solid cancer tissue. It then discusses how ion channels, transporters, and cellular sensors under influence of the acidic tumor microenvironment shape cancer development and progression and affect the potential of cancer therapies.

The roles of calcium and ATP in the physiology and pathology of the exocrine pancreas

This review deals with the roles of calcium ions and ATP in the control of the normal functions of the different cell types in the exocrine pancreas as well as the roles of these molecules in the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Repetitive rises in the local cytosolic calcium ion concentration in the apical part of the acinar cells not only activate exocytosis but also, via an increase in the intramitochondrial calcium ion concentration, stimulate the ATP formation that is needed to fuel the energy-requiring secretion process. However, intracellular calcium overload, resulting in a global sustained elevation of the cytosolic calcium ion concentration, has the opposite effect of decreasing mitochondrial ATP production, and this initiates processes that lead to necrosis. In the last few years it has become possible to image calcium signaling events simultaneously in acinar, stellate, and immune cells in intact lobules of the exocrine pancreas. This has disclosed processes by which these cells interact with each other, particularly in relation to the initiation and development of acute pancreatitis. By unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying this disease, several promising therapeutic intervention sites have been identified. This provides hope that we may soon be able to effectively treat this often fatal disease.

The Groovy TMEM16 Family: Molecular Mechanisms of Lipid Scrambling and Ion Conduction

The TMEM16 family of membrane proteins displays a remarkable functional dichotomy - while some family members function as Ca²⁺-activated anion channels, the majority of characterized TMEM16 homologs are Ca²⁺-activated lipid scramblases, which catalyze the exchange of phospholipids between the two membrane leaflets. Furthermore, some TMEM16 scramblases can also function as channels. Due to their involvement in important physiological processes, the family has been actively studied ever since their molecular identity was unraveled. In this review, we will summarize the recent advances in the field and how they influenced our view of TMEM16 family function and evolution. Structural, functional and computational studies reveal how relatively small rearrangements in the permeation pathway are responsible for the observed functional duality: while TMEM16 scramblases can adopt both ion- and lipid conductive conformations, TMEM16 channels can only populate the former. Recent data further provides the molecular details of a stepwise activation mechanism, which is initiated by Ca²⁺ binding and modulated by various cellular factors, including lipids. TMEM16 function and the surrounding membrane properties are inextricably intertwined, with the protein inducing bilayer deformations associated with scrambling, while the surrounding lipids modulate TMEM16 conformation and activity.

Molecular underpinning of intracellular pH regulation on TMEM16F

TMEM16F, a dual-function phospholipid scramblase and ion channel, is important in blood coagulation, skeleton development, HIV infection, and cell fusion. Despite advances in understanding its structure and activation mechanism, how TMEM16F is regulated by intracellular factors remains largely elusive. Here we report that TMEM16F lipid scrambling and ion channel activities are strongly influenced by intracellular pH (pHi). We found that low pHi attenuates, whereas high pHi potentiates, TMEM16F channel and scramblase activation under physiological concentrations of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i). We further demonstrate that TMEM16F pHi sensitivity depends on [Ca2+]i and exhibits a bell-shaped relationship with [Ca2+]i: TMEM16F channel activation becomes increasingly pHi sensitive from resting [Ca2+]i to micromolar [Ca2+]i, but when [Ca2+]i increases beyond 15 µM, pHi sensitivity gradually diminishes. The mutation of a Ca2+-binding residue that markedly reduces TMEM16F Ca2+ sensitivity (E667Q) maintains the bell-shaped relationship between pHi sensitivity and Ca2+ but causes a dramatic shift of the peak [Ca2+]i from 15 µM to 3 mM. Our biophysical characterizations thus pinpoint that the pHi regulatory effects on TMEM16F stem from the competition between Ca2+ and protons for the primary Ca2+-binding residues in the pore. Within the physiological [Ca2+]i range, the protonation state of the primary Ca2+-binding sites influences Ca2+ binding and regulates TMEM16F activation. Our findings thus uncover a regulatory mechanism of TMEM16F by pHi and shine light on our understanding of the pathophysiological roles of TMEM16F in diseases with dysregulated pHi, including cancer.

The mechanism of ions in pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension（PH）is a kind of hemodynamic and pathophysiological state, in which the pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) rises above a certain threshold. The main pathological manifestation is pulmonary vasoconstriction and remodelling progressively. More and more studies have found that ions play a major role in the pathogenesis of PH. Many vasoactive substances, inflammatory mediators, transcription-inducing factors, apoptosis mediators, redox substances and translation modifiers can control the concentration of ions inside and outside the cell by regulating the activity of ion channels, which can regulate vascular contraction, cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, inflammation and other functions. We all know that there are no effective drugs to treat PH. Ions are involved in the occurrence and development of PH, so it is necessary to clarify the mechanism of ions in PH as a therapeutic target for PH. The main ions involved in PH are calcium ion (Ca2+), potassium ion (K+), sodium ion (Na+) and chloride ion (Cl-). Here, we mainly discuss the distribution of these ions and their channels in pulmonary arteries and their role in the pathogenesis of PH.

Structure-Function of TMEM16 Ion Channels and Lipid Scramblases

The TMEM16 protein family comprises two novel classes of structurally conserved but functionally distinct membrane transporters that function as Ca2+-dependent Cl- channels (CaCCs) or dual functional Ca2+-dependent ion channels and phospholipid scramblases. Extensive functional and structural studies have advanced our understanding of TMEM16 molecular mechanisms and physiological functions. TMEM16A and TMEM16B CaCCs control transepithelial fluid transport, smooth muscle contraction, and neuronal excitability, whereas TMEM16 phospholipid scramblases mediate the flip-flop of phospholipids across the membrane to allow phosphatidylserine externalization, which is essential in a plethora of important processes such as blood coagulation, bone development, and viral and cell fusion. In this chapter, we summarize the major methods in studying TMEM16 ion channels and scramblases and then focus on the current mechanistic understanding of TMEM16 Ca2+- and voltage-dependent channel gating as well as their ion and phospholipid permeation.

Bicarbonate permeation through anion channels: its role in health and disease

Many anion channels, frequently referred as Cl^- channels, are permeable to different anions in addition to Cl^-. As the second-most abundant anion in the human body, HCO₃^- permeation via anion channels has many important physiological roles. In addition to its classical role as an intracellular pH regulator, HCO₃^- also controls the activity and stability of dissolved proteins in bodily fluids such as saliva, pancreatic juice, intestinal fluid, and airway surface liquid. Moreover, HCO₃^- permeation through these channels affects membrane potentials that are the driving forces for transmembrane transport of solutes and water in epithelia and affect neuronal excitability in nervous tissue. Consequently, aberrant HCO₃^- transport via anion channels causes a number of human diseases in respiratory, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and neuronal systems. Notably, recent studies have shown that the HCO₃^- permeabilities of several anion channels are not fixed and can be altered by cellular stimuli, findings which may have both physiological and pathophysiological significance. In this review, we summarize recent progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms and the physiological roles of HCO₃^- permeation through anion channels. We hope that the present discussions can stimulate further research into this very important topic, which will provide the basis for human disorders associated with aberrant HCO₃^- transport.

Ion channels and signaling pathways used in the fast polyspermy block

Fertilization of an egg by multiple sperms, polyspermy, is lethal to most sexually reproducing species. To combat the entry of additional sperm into already fertilized eggs, organisms have developed various polyspermy blocks. One such barrier, the fast polyspermy block, uses a fertilization-activated depolarization of the egg membrane to electrically inhibit supernumerary sperm from entering the egg. The fast block is commonly used by eggs of oviparous animals with external fertilization. In this review, we discuss the history of the fast block discovery, as well as general features shared by all organisms that use this polyspermy block. Given the diversity of habitats of external fertilizers, the fine details of the fast block-signaling pathways differ drastically between species, including the identity of the depolarizing ions. We highlight the known molecular mediators of these signaling pathways in amphibians and echinoderms, with a fine focus on ion channels that signal these fertilization-evoked depolarizations. We also discuss the investigation for a fast polyspermy block in mammals and teleost fish, and we outline potential fast block triggers. Since the first electrical recordings made on eggs in the 1950s, the fields of developmental biology and electrophysiology have substantially matured, and yet we are only now beginning to discern the intricate molecular mechanisms regulating the fast block to polyspermy.

Molecular basis of PIP2-dependent regulation of the Ca2+-activated chloride channel TMEM16A

The calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) TMEM16A plays crucial roles in regulating neuronal excitability, smooth muscle contraction, fluid secretion and gut motility. While opening of TMEM16A requires binding of intracellular Ca2+, prolonged Ca2+-dependent activation results in channel desensitization or rundown, the mechanism of which is unclear. Here we show that phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate (PIP2) regulates TMEM16A channel activation and desensitization via binding to a putative binding site at the cytosolic interface of transmembrane segments (TMs) 3-5. We further demonstrate that the ion-conducting pore of TMEM16A is constituted of two functionally distinct modules: a Ca2+-binding module formed by TMs 6-8 and a PIP2-binding regulatory module formed by TMs 3-5, which mediate channel activation and desensitization, respectively. PIP2 dissociation from the regulatory module results in ion-conducting pore collapse and subsequent channel desensitization. Our findings thus provide key insights into the mechanistic understanding of TMEM16 channel gating and lipid-dependent regulation.

Modes of Accessing Bicarbonate for the Regulation of Membrane Guanylate Cyclase (ROS-GC) in Retinal Rods and Cones

The membrane guanylate cyclase, ROS-GC, that synthesizes cyclic GMP for use as a second messenger for visual transduction in retinal rods and cones, is stimulated by bicarbonate. Bicarbonate acts directly on ROS-GC1, because it enhanced the enzymatic activity of a purified, recombinant fragment of bovine ROS-GC1 consisting solely of the core catalytic domain. Moreover, recombinant ROS-GC1 proved to be a true sensor of bicarbonate, rather than a sensor for CO₂. Access to bicarbonate differed in rods and cones of larval salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum, of unknown sex. In rods, bicarbonate entered at the synapse and diffused to the outer segment, where it was removed by Cl^--dependent exchange. In contrast, cones generated bicarbonate internally from endogenous CO₂ or from exogenous CO₂ that was present in extracellular solutions of bicarbonate. Bicarbonate production from both sources of CO₂ was blocked by the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, acetazolamide. Carbonic anhydrase II expression was verified immunohistochemically in cones but not in rods. In addition, cones acquired bicarbonate at their outer segments as well as at their inner segments. The multiple pathways for access in cones may support greater uptake of bicarbonate than in rods and buffer changes in its intracellular concentration.

Comparison of ion transport determinants between a TMEM16 chloride channel and phospholipid scramblase

The I-V relation of the TMEM16A channel is linear, whereas that of the TMEM16F scramblase is outwardly rectifying. Nguyen et al. show that rectification of TMEM16A is regulated by the charge of residue 584 but that rectification of TMEM16F is affected by aromatic residues at the equivalent position.

Two TMEM16 family members, TMEM16A and TMEM16F, have different ion transport properties. Upon activation by intracellular Ca²⁺, TMEM16A—a Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channel—is more selective for anions than cations, whereas TMEM16F—a phospholipid scramblase—appears to transport both cations and anions. Under saturating Ca²⁺ conditions, the current–voltage (I-V) relationships of these two proteins also differ; the I-V curve of TMEM16A is linear, while that of TMEM16F is outwardly rectifying. We previously found that mutating a positively charged lysine residue (K584) in the ion transport pathway to glutamine converted the linear I-V curve of TMEM16A to an outwardly rectifying curve. Interestingly, the corresponding residue in the outwardly rectifying TMEM16F is also a glutamine (Q559). Here, we examine the ion transport functions of TMEM16 molecules and compare the roles of K584 of TMEM16A and Q559 of TMEM16F in controlling the rectification of their respective I-V curves. We find that rectification of TMEM16A is regulated electrostatically by the side-chain charge on the residue at position 584, whereas the charge on residue 559 in TMEM16F has little effect. Unexpectedly, mutation of Q559 to aromatic amino acid residues significantly alters outward rectification in TMEM16F. These same mutants show reduced Ca²⁺-induced current rundown (or desensitization) compared with wild-type TMEM16F. A mutant that removes the rundown of TMEM16F could facilitate the study of ion transport mechanisms in this phospholipid scramblase in the same way that a CLC-0 mutant in which inactivation (or closure of the slow gate) is suppressed was used in our previous studies.

Molecular mechanisms of gating in the calcium-activated chloride channel bestrophin

Bestrophin (BEST1-4) ligand-gated chloride (Cl^-) channels are activated by calcium (Ca²⁺). Mutation of BEST1 causes retinal disease. Partly because bestrophin channels have no sequence or structural similarity to other ion channels, the molecular mechanisms underlying gating are unknown. Here, we present a series of cryo-electron microscopy structures of chicken BEST1, determined at 3.1 Å resolution or better, that represent the channel’s principal gating states. Unlike other channels, opening of the pore is due to the repositioning of tethered pore-lining helices within a surrounding protein shell that dramatically widens a neck of the pore through a concertina of amino acid rearrangements. The neck serves as both the activation and the inactivation gate. Ca²⁺ binding instigates opening of the neck through allosteric means whereas inactivation peptide binding induces closing. An aperture within the otherwise wide pore controls anion permeability. The studies define a new molecular paradigm for gating among ligand-gated ion channels.

Calcium-dependent electrostatic control of anion access to the pore of the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A

TMEM16A is a ligand-gated anion channel that is activated by intracellular Ca²⁺. This channel comprises two independent pores and closely apposed Ca²⁺ binding sites that are contained within each subunit of a homodimeric protein. Previously we characterized the influence of positively charged pore-lining residues on anion conduction (Paulino et al., 2017a). Here, we demonstrate the electrostatic control of permeation by the bound calcium ions in mouse TMEM16A using electrophysiology and Poisson-Boltzmann calculations. The currents of constitutively active mutants lose their outward rectification as a function of Ca²⁺ concentration due to the alleviation of energy barriers for anion conduction. This phenomenon originates from Coulombic interactions between the bound Ca²⁺ and permeating anions and thus demonstrates that an electrostatic gate imposed by the vacant binding site present in the sterically open pore, is released by Ca²⁺ binding to enable an otherwise sub-conductive pore to conduct with full capacity.

A look at the smelly side of physiology: transport of short chain fatty acids

Fermentative organs such as the caecum, the colon, and the rumen have evolved to produce and absorb energy rich short chain fatty acids (SCFA) from otherwise indigestible substrates. Classical models postulate diffusional uptake of the undissociated acid (HSCFA). However, in net terms, a major part of SCFA absorption occurs with uptake of Na⁺ and resembles classical, coupled electroneutral NaCl transport. Considerable evidence suggests that the anion transporting proteins expressed by epithelia of fermentative organs are poorly selective and that their main function may be to transport acetate^-, propionate^-, butyrate^- and HCO₃^- as the physiologically relevant anions. Apical uptake of SCFA thus involves non-saturable diffusion of the undissociated acid (HSCFA), SCFA^-/HCO₃^- exchange via DRA (SLC26A3) and/or SCFA^--H⁺ symport (MCT1, SLC16A1). All mechanisms lead to cytosolic acidification with stimulation of Na⁺/H⁺ exchange via NHE (SLC9A2/3). Basolaterally, Na⁺ leaves via the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase with recirculation of K⁺. Na⁺ efflux drives the transport of SCFA^- anions through volume-regulated anion channels, such as maxi-anion channels (possibly SLCO2A1), LRRC8, anoctamins, or uncoupled exchangers. When luminal buffering is inadequate, basolateral efflux will increasingly involve SCFA^-/ HCO₃^- exchange (AE1/2, SCL4A1/2), or efflux of SCFA^- with H⁺ (MCT1/4, SLC16A1/3). Furthermore, protons can be basolaterally removed by NHE1 (SCL9A1) or NBCe1 (SLC4A4). The purpose of these transport proteins is to maximize the amount of SCFA transported from the tightly buffered ingesta while minimizing acid transport through the epithelium. As known from the rumen for many decades, a disturbance of these processes is likely to cause severe colonic disease.

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, cholesterol, and fatty acids modulate the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A (ANO1)

The TMEM16A-mediated Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- current drives several important physiological functions. Membrane lipids regulate ion channels and transporters but their influence on members of the TMEM16 family is poorly understood. Here we have studied the regulation of TMEM16A by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2), cholesterol, and fatty acids using patch clamp, biochemistry and fluorescence microscopy. We found that depletion of membrane PI(4,5)P2 causes a decline in TMEM16A current that is independent of cytoskeleton, but is partially prevented by removing intracellular Ca²⁺. On the other hand, supplying PI(4,5)P2 to inside-out patches attenuated channel rundown and/or partially rescued activity after channel rundown. Also, depletion (with methyl-β-cyclodextrin M-βCD) or restoration (with M-βCD+cholesterol) of membrane cholesterol slows down the current decay observed after reduction of PI(4,5)P2. Neither depletion nor restoration of cholesterol change PI(4,5)P2 content. However, M-βCD alone transiently increases TMEM16A activity and dampens rundown whereas M-βCD+cholesterol increases channel rundown. Thus, PI(4,5)P2 is required for TMEM16A function while cholesterol directly and indirectly via a PI(4,5)P2-independent mechanism regulate channel function. Stearic, arachidonic, oleic, docosahexaenoic, and eicosapentaenoic fatty acids as well as methyl stearate inhibit TMEM16A in a dose- and voltage-dependent manner. Phosphatidylserine, a phospholipid whose hydrocarbon tails contain stearic and oleic acids also inhibits TMEM16A. Finally, we show that TMEM16A remains in the plasma membrane after treatment with M-βCD, M-βCD+cholesterol, oleic, or docosahexaenoic acids. Thus, we propose that lipids and fatty acids regulate TMEM16A channels through a membrane-delimited protein-lipid interaction.

Activation mechanism of the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A revealed by cryo-EM

The calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A is a ligand-gated anion channel that opens in response to an increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. The protein is broadly expressed and contributes to diverse physiological processes, including transepithelial chloride transport and the control of electrical signalling in smooth muscles and certain neurons. As a member of the TMEM16 (or anoctamin) family of membrane proteins, TMEM16A is closely related to paralogues that function as scramblases, which facilitate the bidirectional movement of lipids across membranes. The unusual functional diversity of the TMEM16 family and the relationship between two seemingly incompatible transport mechanisms has been the focus of recent investigations. Previous breakthroughs were obtained from the X-ray structure of the lipid scramblase of the fungus Nectria haematococca (nhTMEM16), and from the cryo-electron microscopy structure of mouse TMEM16A at 6.6 Å (ref. 14). Although the latter structure disclosed the architectural differences that distinguish ion channels from lipid scramblases, its low resolution did not permit a detailed molecular description of the protein or provide any insight into its activation by Ca²⁺. Here we describe the structures of mouse TMEM16A at high resolution in the presence and absence of Ca²⁺. These structures reveal the differences between ligand-bound and ligand-free states of a calcium-activated chloride channel, and when combined with functional experiments suggest a mechanism for gating. During activation, the binding of Ca²⁺ to a site located within the transmembrane domain, in the vicinity of the pore, alters the electrostatic properties of the ion conduction path and triggers a conformational rearrangement of an α-helix that comes into physical contact with the bound ligand, and thereby directly couples ligand binding and pore opening. Our study describes a process that is unique among channel proteins, but one that is presumably general for both functional branches of the TMEM16 family.

A CLCA regulatory protein present in the chemosensory cilia of olfactory sensory neurons induces a Ca2+-activated Cl- current when transfected into HEK293

BACKGROUND

CLCA is a family of metalloproteases that regulate Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- fluxes in epithelial tissues. In HEK293 cells, CLCA1 promotes membrane expression of an endogenous Anoctamin 1 (ANO1, also termed TMEM16A)-dependent Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- current. Motif architecture similarity with CLCA2, 3 and 4 suggested that they have similar functions. We previously detected the isoform CLCA4L in rat olfactory sensory neurons, where Anoctamin 2 is the principal chemotransduction Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- channel. We explored the possibility that this protein plays a role in odor transduction.

RESULTS

We cloned and expressed CLCA4L from rat olfactory epithelium in HEK293 cells. In the transfected HEK293 cells we measured a Cl^--selective Ca²⁺-activated current, blocked by niflumic acid, not present in the non-transfected cells. Thus, CLCA4L mimics the CLCA1 current on its ability to induce the ANO1-dependent Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- current endogenous to these cells. By immunocytochemistry, a CLCA protein, presumably CLCA4L, was detected in the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons co-expressing with ANO2.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggests that a CLCA isoform, namely CLCA4L, expressed in OSN cilia, might have a regulatory function over the ANO2-dependent Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- channel involved in odor transduction.

Poring over furrows

Cryo-electron microscopy reveals the structure of a chloride channel that is closely related to a protein that transports lipids.

Structural basis for anion conduction in the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A

The calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A is a member of a conserved protein family that comprises ion channels and lipid scramblases. Although the structure of the scramblase nhTMEM16 has defined the architecture of the family, it was unknown how a channel has adapted to cope with its distinct functional properties. Here we have addressed this question by the structure determination of mouse TMEM16A by cryo-electron microscopy and a complementary functional characterization. The protein shows a similar organization to nhTMEM16, except for changes at the site of catalysis. There, the conformation of transmembrane helices constituting a membrane-spanning furrow that provides a path for lipids in scramblases has changed to form an enclosed aqueous pore that is largely shielded from the membrane. Our study thus reveals the structural basis of anion conduction in a TMEM16 channel and it defines the foundation for the diverse functional behavior in the TMEM16 family.

Molecular, biophysical, and pharmacological properties of calcium-activated chloride channels

Calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs) are a family of anionic transmembrane ion channels. They are mainly responsible for the movement of Cl^- and other anions across the biological membranes, and they are widely expressed in different tissues. Since the Cl^- flow into or out of the cell plays a crucial role in hyperpolarizing or depolarizing the cells, respectively, the impact of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration on these channels is attracting a lot of attentions. After summarizing the molecular, biophysical, and pharmacological properties of CaCCs, the role of CaCCs in normal cellular functions will be discussed, and I will emphasize how dysregulation of CaCCs in pathological conditions can account for different diseases. A better understanding of CaCCs and a pivotal regulatory role of Ca²⁺ can shed more light on the therapeutic strategies for different neurological disorders that arise from chloride dysregulation, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and neuropathic pain.

Characterization of constitutive and acid-induced outwardly rectifying chloride currents in immortalized mouse distal tubular cells

Thiazides block Na⁺ reabsorption while enhancing Ca²⁺ reabsorption in the kidney. As previously demonstrated in immortalized mouse distal convoluted tubule (MDCT) cells, chlorothiazide application induced a robust plasma membrane hyperpolarization, which increased Ca²⁺ uptake. This essential thiazide-induced hyperpolarization was prevented by the Cl⁻ channel inhibitor 5-Nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB), implicating NPPB-sensitive Cl⁻ channels, however the nature of these Cl⁻ channels has been rarely described in the literature. Here we show that MDCT cells express a dominant, outwardly rectifying Cl⁻ current at extracellular pH 7.4. This constitutive Cl⁻ current was more permeable to larger anions (Eisenman sequence I; I⁻ > Br⁻ ≥ Cl⁻) and was substantially inhibited by > 100 mM [Ca²⁺]_o, which distinguished it from ClC-K2/barttin. Moreover, the constitutive Cl⁻ current was blocked by NPPB, along with other Cl⁻ channel inhibitors (4,4′-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonate, DIDS; flufenamic acid, FFA). Subjecting the MDCT cells to an acidic extracellular solution (pH < 5.5) induced a substantially larger outwardly rectifying NPPB-sensitive Cl⁻ current. This acid-induced Cl⁻ current was also anion permeable (I⁻ > Br⁻ > Cl⁻), but was distinguished from the constitutive Cl⁻ current by its rectification characteristics, ion sensitivities, and response to FFA. In addition, we have identified similar outwardly rectifying and acid-sensitive currents in immortalized cells from the inner medullary collecting duct (mIMCD-3 cells). Expression of an acid-induced Cl⁻ current would be particularly relevant in the acidic IMCD (pH < 5.5). To our knowledge, the properties of these Cl⁻ currents are unique and provide the mechanisms to account for the Cl⁻ efflux previously speculated to be present in MDCT cells.

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MDCT cells express a dominant NPPB-sensitive Cl⁻ current at pH 7.4.

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The constitutive Cl⁻ current (pH 7.4) does not arise from ClC-K2/barttin.

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MDCT cells also express an acid-induced NPPB-sensitive Cl⁻ current (pH < 5.5).

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Both the constitutive and acid-induced Cl⁻ currents are unique.

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mIMCD-3 cells express currents with similar biophysical properties.

Permeation Mechanisms in the TMEM16B Calcium-Activated Chloride Channels

TMEM16A and TMEM16B encode for Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels (CaCC) and are expressed in many cell types and play a relevant role in many physiological processes. Here, I performed a site-directed mutagenesis study to understand the molecular mechanisms of ion permeation of TMEM16B. I mutated two positive charged residues R573 and K540, respectively located at the entrance and inside the putative channel pore and I measured the properties of wild-type and mutant TMEM16B channels expressed in HEK-293 cells using whole-cell and excised inside-out patch clamp experiments. I found evidence that R573 and K540 control the ion permeability of TMEM16B depending both on which side of the membrane the ion substitution occurs and on the level of channel activation. Moreover, these residues contribute to control blockage or activation by permeant anions. Finally, R573 mutation abolishes the anomalous mole fraction effect observed in the presence of a permeable anion and it alters the apparent Ca²⁺-sensitivity of the channel. These findings indicate that residues facing the putative channel pore are responsible both for controlling the ion selectivity and the gating of the channel, providing an initial understanding of molecular mechanism of ion permeation in TMEM16B.

Extracellular protons enable activation of the calcium-dependent chloride channel TMEM16A

KEY POINTS

The calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A provides a pathway for chloride ion movements that are key in preventing polyspermy, allowing fluid secretion, controlling blood pressure, and enabling gastrointestinal activity. TMEM16A is opened by voltage-dependent calcium binding and regulated by permeant anions and intracellular protons. Here we show that a low proton concentration reduces TMEM16A activity while maximum activation is obtained when the external proton concentration is high. In addition, protonation conditions determine the open probability of TMEM16A without changing its calcium sensitivity. External glutamic acid 623 (E623) is key for TMEM16A's ability to respond to external protons. At physiological pH, E623 is un-protonated and TMEM16A is activated when intracellular calcium increases; however, under acidic conditions E623 is partially protonated and works synergistically with intracellular calcium to activate the channel. These findings are critical for understanding physiological and pathological processes that involve changes in pH and chloride flux via TMEM16A.

ABSTRACT

Transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A), also known as ANO1, the pore-forming subunit of a Ca²⁺ -dependent Cl^- channel (CaCC), is activated by direct, voltage-dependent, binding of intracellular Ca²⁺ . Endogenous CaCCs are regulated by extracellular protons; however, the molecular basis of such regulation remains unidentified. Here, we evaluated the effects of different extracellular proton concentrations ([H⁺ ]_o ) on mouse TMEM16A expressed in HEK-293 cells using whole-cell and inside-out patch-clamp recordings. We found that increasing the [H⁺ ]_o from 10^-10 to 10^-5.5  m caused a progressive increase in the chloride current (I_Cl ) that is described by titration of a protonatable site with pK = 7.3. Protons regulate TMEM16A in a voltage-independent manner, regardless of channel state (open or closed), and without altering its apparent Ca²⁺ sensitivity. Noise analysis showed that protons regulate TMEM16A by tuning its open probability without modifying the single channel current. We found a robust reduction of the proton effect at high [Ca²⁺ ]_i . To identify protonation targets we mutated all extracellular glutamate and histidine residues and 4 of 11 aspartates. Most mutants were sensitive to protons. However, mutation that substituted glutamic acid (E) for glutamine (Q) at amino acid position 623 (E623Q) displayed a titration curve shifted to the left relative to wild type channels and the I_Cl was nearly insensitive to proton concentrations between 10^-5.5 and 10^-9.0  m. Additionally, I_Cl of the mutant containing an aspartic acid (D) to asparagine (N) substitution at position 405 (D405N) mutant was partially inhibited by a proton concentration of 10^-5.5  m, but 10^-9.0  m produced the same effect as in wild type. Based on our findings we propose that external protons titrate glutamic acid 623, which enables voltage activation of TMEM16A at non-saturating [Ca²⁺ ]_i .

Distinct regions that control ion selectivity and calcium-dependent activation in the bestrophin ion channel

Cytoplasmic calcium (Ca²⁺) activates the bestrophin anion channel, allowing chloride ions to flow down their electrochemical gradient. Mutations in bestrophin 1 (BEST1) cause macular degenerative disorders. Previously, we determined an X-ray structure of chicken BEST1 that revealed the architecture of the channel. Here, we present electrophysiological studies of purified wild-type and mutant BEST1 channels and an X-ray structure of a Ca²⁺-independent mutant. From these experiments, we identify regions of BEST1 responsible for Ca²⁺ activation and ion selectivity. A "Ca²⁺ clasp" within the channel's intracellular region acts as a sensor of cytoplasmic Ca²⁺. Alanine substitutions within a hydrophobic "neck" of the pore, which widen it, cause the channel to be constitutively active, irrespective of Ca²⁺. We conclude that the primary function of the neck is as a "gate" that controls chloride permeation in a Ca²⁺-dependent manner. In contrast to what others have proposed, we find that the neck is not a major contributor to the channel's ion selectivity. We find that mutation of a cytosolic "aperture" of the pore does not perturb the Ca²⁺ dependence of the channel or its preference for anions over cations, but its mutation dramatically alters relative permeabilities among anions. The data suggest that the aperture functions as a size-selective filter that permits the passage of small entities such as partially dehydrated chloride ions while excluding larger molecules such as amino acids. Thus, unlike ion channels that have a single "selectivity filter," in bestrophin, distinct regions of the pore govern anion-vs.-cation selectivity and the relative permeabilities among anions.

Independent activation of ion conduction pores in the double-barreled calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A

The TMEM16 family contains dimeric membrane proteins activated by intracellular Ca²⁺. Realizing that lipid scramblase family members contain two independently activated subunits, Lim et al. use concatenated TMEM16A subunits to show that ion channel members contain two independently activated pores.

The TMEM16 proteins constitute a family of membrane proteins with unusual functional breadth, including lipid scramblases and Cl⁻ channels. Members of both these branches are activated by Ca²⁺, acting from the intracellular side, and probably share a common architecture, which was defined in the recent structure of the lipid scramblase nhTMEM16. The structural features of subunits and the arrangement of Ca²⁺-binding sites in nhTMEM16 suggest that the dimeric protein harbors two locations for catalysis that are independent with respect to both activation and lipid conduction. Here, we ask whether a similar independence is observed in the Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channel TMEM16A. For this purpose, we generated concatenated constructs containing subunits with distinct activation and permeation properties. Our biochemical investigations demonstrate the integrity of concatemers after solubilization and purification. During investigation by patch-clamp electrophysiology, the functional behavior of constructs containing either two wild-type (WT) subunits or one WT subunit paired with a second subunit with compromised activation closely resembles TMEM16A. This resemblance extends to ion selectivity, conductance, and the concentration and voltage dependence of channel activation by Ca²⁺. Constructs combining subunits with different potencies for Ca²⁺ show a biphasic activation curve that can be described as a linear combination of the properties of its constituents. The functional independence is further supported by mutation of a putative pore-lining residue that changes the conduction properties of the mutated subunit. Our results strongly suggest that TMEM16A contains two ion conduction pores that are independently activated by Ca²⁺ binding to sites that are embedded within the transmembrane part of each subunit.

Negative News: Cl− and HCO3− in the Vascular Wall

Cl− and HCO3− are the most prevalent membrane-permeable anions in the intra- and extracellular spaces of the vascular wall. Outwardly directed electrochemical gradients for Cl− and HCO3− permit anion channel opening to depolarize vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Transporters and channels for Cl− and HCO3− also modify vascular contractility and structure independently of membrane potential. Transport of HCO3− regulates intracellular pH and thereby modifies the activity of enzymes, ion channels, and receptors. There is also evidence that Cl− and HCO3− transport proteins affect gene expression and protein trafficking. Considering the extensive implications of Cl− and HCO3− in the vascular wall, it is critical to understand how these ions are transported under physiological conditions and how disturbances in their transport can contribute to disease development. Recently, sensing mechanisms for Cl− and HCO3− have been identified in the vascular wall where they modify ion transport and vasomotor function, for instance, during metabolic disturbances. This review discusses current evidence that transport (e.g., via NKCC1, NBCn1, Ca2+-activated Cl− channels, volume-regulated anion channels, and CFTR) and sensing (e.g., via WNK and RPTPγ) of Cl− and HCO3− influence cardiovascular health and disease.

Revealing the activation pathway for TMEM16A chloride channels from macroscopic currents and kinetic models

TMEM16A (ANO1), the pore-forming subunit of calcium-activated chloride channels, regulates several physiological and pathophysiological processes such as smooth muscle contraction, cardiac and neuronal excitability, salivary secretion, tumour growth and cancer progression. Gating of TMEM16A is complex because it involves the interplay between increases in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)]i), membrane depolarization, extracellular Cl(-) or permeant anions and intracellular protons. Our goal here was to understand how these variables regulate TMEM16A gating and to explain four observations. (a) TMEM16A is activated by voltage in the absence of intracellular Ca(2+). (b) The Cl(-) conductance is decreased after reducing extracellular Cl(-) concentration ([Cl(-)]o). (c) ICl is regulated by physiological concentrations of [Cl(-)]o. (d) In cells dialyzed with 0.2 μM [Ca(2+)]i, Cl(-) has a bimodal effect: at [Cl(-)]o <30 mM TMEM16A current activates with a monoexponential time course, but above 30 mM, [Cl(-)]o ICl activation displays fast and slow kinetics. To explain the contribution of Vm, Ca(2+) and Cl(-) to gating, we developed a 12-state Markov chain model. This model explains TMEM16A activation as a sequential, direct, and Vm-dependent binding of two Ca(2+) ions coupled to a Vm-dependent binding of an external Cl(-) ion, with Vm-dependent transitions between states. Our model predicts that extracellular Cl(-) does not alter the apparent Ca(2+) affinity of TMEM16A, which we corroborated experimentally. Rather, extracellular Cl(-) acts by stabilizing the open configuration induced by Ca(2+) and by contributing to the Vm dependence of activation.

Study of permeation and blocker binding in TMEM16A calcium-activated chloride channels

We studied the effects of mutations of positively charged amino acid residues in the pore of X. tropicalis TMEM16A calcium-activated chloride channels: K613E, K628E, K630E; R646E and R761E. The activation and deactivation kinetics were not affected, and only K613E showed a lower current density. K628E and R761E affect anion selectivity without affecting Na(+) permeation, whereas K613E, R646E and the double mutant K613E + R646E affect anion selectivity and permeability to Na(+). Furthermore, altered blockade by the chloride channel blockers anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (A-9-C), 4, 4'-Diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonic acid (DIDS) and T16inh-A01 was observed. These results suggest the existence of 2 binding sites for anions within the pore at electrical distances of 0.3 and 0.5. These sites are also relevant for anion permeation and blockade.

Pore dilatation increases the bicarbonate permeability of CFTR, ANO1 and glycine receptor anion channels

KEY POINTS

Cellular stimuli can modulate the ion selectivity of some anion channels, such as CFTR, ANO1 and the glycine receptor (GlyR), by changing pore size. Ion selectivity of CFTR, ANO1 and GlyR is critically affected by the electric permittivity and diameter of the channel pore. Pore size change affects the energy barriers of ion dehydration as well as that of size-exclusion of anion permeation. Pore dilatation increases the bicarbonate permeability (P HC O3/ Cl ) of CFTR, ANO1 and GlyR. Dynamic change in P HC O3/ Cl may mediate many physiological and pathological processes.

ABSTRACT

Chloride (Cl(-) ) and bicarbonate (HCO3 (-) ) are two major anions and their permeation through anion channels plays essential roles in our body. However, the mechanism of ion selection by the anion channels is largely unknown. Here, we provide evidence that pore dilatation increases the bicarbonate permeability (P HC O3/ Cl ) of anion channels by reducing energy barriers of size-exclusion and ion dehydration of HCO3 (-) permeation. Molecular, physiological and computational analyses of major anion channels, such as cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), anoctamin-1(ANO1/TMEM16A) and the glycine receptor (GlyR), revealed that the ion selectivity of anion channels is basically determined by the electric permittivity and diameter of the pore. Importantly, cellular stimuli dynamically modulate the anion selectivity of CFTR and ANO1 by changing the pore size. In addition, pore dilatation by a mutation in the pore-lining region alters the anion selectivity of GlyR. Changes in pore size affected not only the energy barriers of size exclusion but that of ion dehydration by altering the electric permittivity of water-filled cavity in the pore. The dynamic increase in P HC O3/ Cl by pore dilatation may have many physiological and pathophysiological implications ranging from epithelial HCO3 (-) secretion to neuronal excitation.

A Pore Idea: the ion conduction pathway of TMEM16/ANO proteins is composed partly of lipid

Since their first descriptions, ion channels have been conceived as proteinaceous conduits that facilitate the passage of ionic cargo between segregated environments. This concept is reinforced by crystallographic structures of cation channels depicting ion conductance pathways completely lined by protein. Although lipids are sometimes present in fenestrations near the pore or may be involved in channel gating, there is little or no evidence that lipids inhabit the ion conduction pathway. Indeed, the presence of lipid acyl chains in the conductance pathway would curse the design of the channel's aqueous pore. Here, we make a speculative proposal that anion channels in the TMEM16/ANO superfamily have ion conductance pathways composed partly of lipids. Our reasoning is based on the idea that TMEM16 ion channels evolved from a kind of lipid transporter that scrambles lipids between leaflets of the membrane bilayer and the modeled structural similarity between TMEM16 lipid scramblases and TMEM16 anion channels. This novel view of the TMEM16 pore offers explanation for the biophysical and pharmacological oddness of TMEM16A. We build upon the recent X-ray structure of nhTMEM16 and develop models of both TMEM16 ion channels and lipid scramblases to bolster our proposal. It is our hope that this model of the TMEM16 pore will foster innovative investigation into TMEM16 function.

Calcium-calmodulin does not alter the anion permeability of the mouse TMEM16A calcium-activated chloride channel

Ca²⁺-calmodulin fails to affect TMEM16A anion permeability.

The transmembrane protein TMEM16A forms a Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channel that is permeable to many anions, including SCN⁻, I⁻, Br⁻, Cl⁻, and HCO₃⁻, and has been implicated in various physiological functions. Indeed, controlling anion permeation through the TMEM16A channel pore may be critical in regulating the pH of exocrine fluids such as the pancreatic juice. The anion permeability of the TMEM16A channel pore has recently been reported to be modulated by Ca²⁺-calmodulin (CaCaM), such that the pore of the CaCaM-bound channel shows a reduced ability to discriminate between anions as measured by a shift of the reversal potential under bi-ionic conditions. Here, using a mouse TMEM16A clone that contains the two previously identified putative CaM-binding motifs, we were unable to demonstrate such CaCaM-dependent changes in the bi-ionic potential. We confirmed the activity of CaCaM used in our study by showing CaCaM modulation of the olfactory cyclic nucleotide–gated channel. We suspect that the different bi-ionic potentials that were obtained previously from whole-cell recordings in low and high intracellular [Ca²⁺] may result from different degrees of bi-ionic potential shift secondary to a series resistance problem, an ion accumulation effect, or both.

New selective inhibitors of calcium-activated chloride channels - T16A(inh) -A01, CaCC(inh) -A01 and MONNA - what do they inhibit?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

T16A(inh)-A01, CaCC(inh)-A01 and MONNA are identified as selective inhibitors of the TMEM16A calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC). The aim of this study was to examine the chloride-specificity of these compounds on isolated resistance arteries in the presence and absence (±) of extracellular chloride.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Isolated resistance arteries were maintained in a myograph and tension recorded, in some instances combined with microelectrode impalement for membrane potential measurements or intracellular calcium monitoring using fura-2. Voltage-dependent calcium currents (VDCC) were measured in A7r5 cells with voltage-clamp electrophysiology using barium as a charge carrier.

KEY RESULTS

Rodent arteries preconstricted with noradrenaline or U46619 were concentration-dependently relaxed by T16A(inh) -A01 (0.1-10 μM): IC50 and maximum relaxation were equivalent in ±chloride (30 min aspartate substitution) and the T16A(inh) -A01-induced vasorelaxation ±chloride were accompanied by membrane hyperpolarization and lowering of intracellular calcium. However, agonist concentration-response curves ±chloride, with 10 μM T16A(inh) -A01 present, achieved similar maximum constrictions although agonist-sensitivity decreased. Contractions induced by elevated extracellular potassium were concentration-dependently relaxed by T16A(inh)-A01 ±chloride. Moreover, T16A(inh) -A01 inhibited VDCCs in A7r5 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. CaCC(inh) -A01 and MONNA (0.1-10 μM) induced vasorelaxation ±chloride and both compounds lowered maximum contractility. MONNA, 10 μM, induced substantial membrane hyperpolarization under resting conditions.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

T16A(inh) -A01, CaCC(inh) -A01 and MONNA concentration-dependently relax rodent resistance arteries, but an equivalent vasorelaxation occurs when the transmembrane chloride gradient is abolished with an impermeant anion. These compounds therefore display poor selectivity for TMEM16A and inhibition of CaCC in vascular tissue in the concentration range that inhibits the isolated conductance.

Identification of a lipid scrambling domain in ANO6/TMEM16F

Phospholipid scrambling (PLS) is a ubiquitous cellular mechanism involving the regulated bidirectional transport of phospholipids down their concentration gradient between membrane leaflets. ANO6/TMEM16F has been shown to be essential for Ca(2+)-dependent PLS, but controversy surrounds whether ANO6 is a phospholipid scramblase or an ion channel like other ANO/TMEM16 family members. Combining patch clamp recording with measurement of PLS, we show that ANO6 elicits robust Ca(2+)-dependent PLS coinciding with ionic currents that are explained by ionic leak during phospholipid translocation. By analyzing ANO1-ANO6 chimeric proteins, we identify a domain in ANO6 necessary for PLS and sufficient to confer this function on ANO1, which normally does not scramble. Homology modeling shows that the scramblase domain forms an unusual hydrophilic cleft that faces the lipid bilayer and may function to facilitate translocation of phospholipid between membrane leaflets. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for understanding PLS and how ANO6 functions in this process.

Conditional knockout of TMEM16A/anoctamin1 abolishes the calcium-activated chloride current in mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons

TMEM16A is an essential component of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ currents in mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons.

Pheromones are substances released from animals that, when detected by the vomeronasal organ of other individuals of the same species, affect their physiology and behavior. Pheromone binding to receptors on microvilli on the dendritic knobs of vomeronasal sensory neurons activates a second messenger cascade to produce an increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. Here, we used whole-cell and inside-out patch-clamp analysis to provide a functional characterization of currents activated by Ca²⁺ in isolated mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons in the absence of intracellular K⁺. In whole-cell recordings, the average current in 1.5 µM Ca²⁺ and symmetrical Cl⁻ was −382 pA at −100 mV. Ion substitution experiments and partial blockade by commonly used Cl⁻ channel blockers indicated that Ca²⁺ activates mainly anionic currents in these neurons. Recordings from inside-out patches from dendritic knobs of mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons confirmed the presence of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels in the knobs and/or microvilli. We compared the electrophysiological properties of the native currents with those mediated by heterologously expressed TMEM16A/anoctamin1 or TMEM16B/anoctamin2 Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels, which are coexpressed in microvilli of mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons, and found a closer resemblance to those of TMEM16A. We used the Cre–loxP system to selectively knock out TMEM16A in cells expressing the olfactory marker protein, which is found in mature vomeronasal sensory neurons. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the specific ablation of TMEM16A in vomeronasal neurons. Ca²⁺-activated currents were abolished in vomeronasal sensory neurons of TMEM16A conditional knockout mice, demonstrating that TMEM16A is an essential component of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ currents in mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons.

Bicarbonate Modulates Photoreceptor Guanylate Cyclase (ROS-GC) Catalytic Activity

By generating the second messenger cGMP in retinal rods and cones, ROS-GC plays a central role in visual transduction. Guanylate cyclase-activating proteins (GCAPs) link cGMP synthesis to the light-induced fall in [Ca(2+)]i to help set absolute sensitivity and assure prompt recovery of the response to light. The present report discloses a surprising feature of this system: ROS-GC is a sensor of bicarbonate. Recombinant ROS-GCs synthesized cGMP from GTP at faster rates in the presence of bicarbonate with an ED50 of 27 mM for ROS-GC1 and 39 mM for ROS-GC2. The effect required neither Ca(2+) nor use of the GCAPs domains; however, stimulation of ROS-GC1 was more powerful in the presence of GCAP1 or GCAP2 at low [Ca(2+)]. When applied to retinal photoreceptors, bicarbonate enhanced the circulating current, decreased sensitivity to flashes, and accelerated flash response kinetics. Bicarbonate was effective when applied either to the outer or inner segment of red-sensitive cones. In contrast, bicarbonate exerted an effect when applied to the inner segment of rods but had little efficacy when applied to the outer segment. The findings define a new regulatory mechanism of the ROS-GC system that affects visual transduction and is likely to affect the course of retinal diseases caused by cGMP toxicity.

Apical iodide efflux in thyroid

Thyroid follicular epithelial cells produce thyroxine (T4) and its physiologically active derivative, 3,3',5-triiodothyronine (T3), hormones that regulate critical developmental and metabolic functions. In order for the thyroid to form hormone precursor, iodide, the defining element in thyroid hormone, must cross both blood-facing and luminal sides of the follicular epithelium. The pathway for uptake from blood is well understood, but the mechanism(s) that enable iodide to cross the luminally facing apical membrane remain obscure. This chapter considers the physiological properties of several molecularly characterized anion transport proteins, all of which potentially contribute to the overall mechanism of apical iodide efflux.

Interactions between permeation and gating in the TMEM16B/anoctamin2 calcium-activated chloride channel

Extracellular anions more permeant than Cl⁻ modulate TMEM16B gating to promote channel opening, whereas less permeant anions favor channel closure.

At least two members of the TMEM16/anoctamin family, TMEM16A (also known as anoctamin1) and TMEM16B (also known as anoctamin2), encode Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels (CaCCs), which are found in various cell types and mediate numerous physiological functions. Here, we used whole-cell and excised inside-out patch-clamp to investigate the relationship between anion permeation and gating, two processes typically viewed as independent, in TMEM16B expressed in HEK 293T cells. The permeability ratio sequence determined by substituting Cl⁻ with other anions (P_X/P_Cl) was SCN⁻ > I⁻ > NO₃⁻ > Br⁻ > Cl⁻ > F⁻ > gluconate. When external Cl⁻ was substituted with other anions, TMEM16B activation and deactivation kinetics at 0.5 µM Ca²⁺ were modified according to the sequence of permeability ratios, with anions more permeant than Cl⁻ slowing both activation and deactivation and anions less permeant than Cl⁻ accelerating them. Moreover, replacement of external Cl⁻ with gluconate, or sucrose, shifted the voltage dependence of steady-state activation (G-V relation) to more positive potentials, whereas substitution of extracellular or intracellular Cl⁻ with SCN⁻ shifted G-V to more negative potentials. Dose–response relationships for Ca²⁺ in the presence of different extracellular anions indicated that the apparent affinity for Ca²⁺ at +100 mV increased with increasing permeability ratio. The apparent affinity for Ca²⁺ in the presence of intracellular SCN⁻ also increased compared with that in Cl⁻. Our results provide the first evidence that TMEM16B gating is modulated by permeant anions and provide the basis for future studies aimed at identifying the molecular determinants of TMEM16B ion selectivity and gating.