1
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Liu Z, Wang F, Yuan H, Tian F, Yang C, Hu F, Liu Y, Tang M, Ping M, Kang C, Luo T, Yang G, Hu M, Gao Z, Li P. An LQT2-related mutation in the voltage-sensing domain is involved in switching the gating polarity of hERG. BMC Biol 2024; 22:29. [PMID: 38317233 PMCID: PMC11380439 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01833-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclic Nucleotide-Binding Domain (CNBD)-family channels display distinct voltage-sensing properties despite sharing sequence and structural similarity. For example, the human Ether-a-go-go Related Gene (hERG) channel and the Hyperpolarization-activated Cyclic Nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel share high amino acid sequence similarity and identical domain structures. hERG conducts outward current and is activated by positive membrane potentials (depolarization), whereas HCN conducts inward current and is activated by negative membrane potentials (hyperpolarization). The structural basis for the "opposite" voltage-sensing properties of hERG and HCN remains unknown. RESULTS We found the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) involves in modulating the gating polarity of hERG. We identified that a long-QT syndrome type 2-related mutation within the VSD, K525N, mediated an inwardly rectifying non-deactivating current, perturbing the channel closure, but sparing the open state and inactivated state. K525N rescued the current of a non-functional mutation in the pore helix region (F627Y) of hERG. K525N&F627Y switched hERG into a hyperpolarization-activated channel. The reactivated inward current induced by hyperpolarization mediated by K525N&F627Y can be inhibited by E-4031 and dofetilide quite well. Moreover, we report an extracellular interaction between the S1 helix and the S5-P region is crucial for modulating the gating polarity. The alanine substitution of several residues in this region (F431A, C566A, I607A, and Y611A) impaired the inward current of K525N&F627Y. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide evidence that a potential cooperation mechanism in the extracellular vestibule of the VSD and the PD would determine the gating polarity in hERG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipei Liu
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Feng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
| | - Hui Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
| | - Fuyun Tian
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chuanyan Yang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Fei Hu
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yiyao Liu
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
| | - Meiqin Tang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Meixuan Ping
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chunlan Kang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Guimei Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
| | - Mei Hu
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Zhongshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, 528401, China
| | - Zhaobing Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Ping Li
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
- Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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2
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Guidelli R. An Insight into the Potassium Currents of hERG and Their Simulation. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083514. [PMID: 37110748 PMCID: PMC10142355 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
By assuming that a stepwise outward movement of the four S4 segments of the hERG potassium channel determines a concomitant progressive increase in the flow of the permeant potassium ions, the inward and outward potassium currents can be simulated by using only one or two adjustable (i.e., free) parameters. This deterministic kinetic model differs from the stochastic models of hERG available in the literature, which usually require more than 10 free parameters. The K+ outward current of hERG contributes to the repolarization of the cardiac action potential. On the other hand, the K+ inward current increases with a positive shift in the transmembrane potential, in apparent contrast to both the electric and osmotic forces, which would concur in moving K+ ions outwards. This peculiar behavior can be explained by the appreciable constriction of the central pore midway along its length, with a radius < 1 Å and hydrophobic sacks surrounding it, as reported in an open conformation of the hERG potassium channel. This narrowing raises a barrier to the outward movement of K+ ions, inducing them to move increasingly inwards under a gradually more positive transmembrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolando Guidelli
- Retired Professor, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", Florence University, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
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3
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Characterising ion channel structure and dynamics using fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:1427-1445. [DOI: 10.1042/bst20220605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels undergo major conformational changes that lead to channel opening and ion conductance. Deciphering these structure-function relationships is paramount to understanding channel physiology and pathophysiology. Cryo-electron microscopy, crystallography and computer modelling provide atomic-scale snapshots of channel conformations in non-cellular environments but lack dynamic information that can be linked to functional results. Biophysical techniques such as electrophysiology, on the other hand, provide functional data with no structural information of the processes involved. Fluorescence spectroscopy techniques help bridge this gap in simultaneously obtaining structure-function correlates. These include voltage-clamp fluorometry, Förster resonance energy transfer, ligand binding assays, single molecule fluorescence and their variations. These techniques can be employed to unearth several features of ion channel behaviour. For instance, they provide real time information on local and global rearrangements that are inherent to channel properties. They also lend insights in trafficking, expression, and assembly of ion channels on the membrane surface. These methods have the advantage that they can be carried out in either native or heterologous systems. In this review, we briefly explain the principles of fluorescence and how these have been translated to study ion channel function. We also report several recent advances in fluorescence spectroscopy that has helped address and improve our understanding of the biophysical behaviours of different ion channel families.
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4
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Priest MF, Lee EE, Bezanilla F. Tracking the movement of discrete gating charges in a voltage-gated potassium channel. eLife 2021; 10:58148. [PMID: 34779404 PMCID: PMC8635975 DOI: 10.7554/elife.58148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Positively charged amino acids respond to membrane potential changes to drive voltage sensor movement in voltage-gated ion channels, but determining the displacements of voltage sensor gating charges has proven difficult. We optically tracked the movement of the two most extracellular charged residues (R1 and R2) in the Shaker potassium channel voltage sensor using a fluorescent positively charged bimane derivative (qBBr) that is strongly quenched by tryptophan. By individually mutating residues to tryptophan within the putative pathway of gating charges, we observed that the charge motion during activation is a rotation and a tilted translation that differs between R1 and R2. Tryptophan-induced quenching of qBBr also indicates that a crucial residue of the hydrophobic plug is linked to the Cole-Moore shift through its interaction with R1. Finally, we show that this approach extends to additional voltage-sensing membrane proteins using the Ciona intestinalis voltage-sensitive phosphatase (CiVSP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Priest
- Committee on Neurobiology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Elizabeth El Lee
- Committee on Neurobiology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Francisco Bezanilla
- Committee on Neurobiology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, United States
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5
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Zhang X, Wang B, Liu Z, Zhou Y, Du L. How to Fluorescently Label the Potassium Channel: A Case in hERG. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:3046-3054. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666181129094455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
hERG (Human ether-a-go-go-related gene) potassium channel, which plays an essential
role in cardiac action potential repolarization, is responsible for inherited and druginduced
long QT syndrome. Recently, the Cryo-EM structure capturing the open conformation
of hERG channel was determined, thus pushing the study on hERG channel at 3.8 Å
resolution. This report focuses primarily on summarizing the design rationale and application
of several fluorescent probes that target hERG channels, which enables dynamic and real-time
monitoring of potassium pore channel affinity to further advance the understanding of the
channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Beilei Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhenzhen Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Lupei Du
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
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6
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He S, Moutaoufik MT, Islam S, Persad A, Wu A, Aly KA, Fonge H, Babu M, Cayabyab FS. HERG channel and cancer: A mechanistic review of carcinogenic processes and therapeutic potential. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1873:188355. [PMID: 32135169 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The human ether-à-go-go related gene (HERG) encodes the alpha subunit of Kv11.1, which is a voltage-gated K+ channel protein mainly expressed in heart and brain tissue. HERG plays critical role in cardiac repolarization, and mutations in HERG can cause long QT syndrome. More recently, evidence has emerged that HERG channels are aberrantly expressed in many kinds of cancer cells and play important roles in cancer progression. HERG could therefore be a potential biomarker for cancer and a possible molecular target for anticancer drug design. HERG affects a number of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and migration, any of which could be affected by dysregulation of HERG. This review provides an overview of available information on HERG channel as it relates to cancer, with focus on the mechanism by which HERG influences cancer progression. Molecular docking attempts suggest two possible protein-protein interactions of HERG with the ß1-integrin receptor and the transcription factor STAT-1 as novel HERG-directed therapeutic targeting which avoids possible cardiotoxicity. The role of epigenetics in regulating HERG channel expression and activity in cancer will also be discussed. Finally, given its inherent extracellular accessibility as an ion channel, we discuss regulatory roles of this molecule in cancer physiology and therapeutic potential. Future research should be directed to explore the possibilities of therapeutic interventions targeting HERG channels while minding possible complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi He
- Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Research Group, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | | | - Saadul Islam
- Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Research Group, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Amit Persad
- Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Research Group, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Adam Wu
- Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Research Group, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Khaled A Aly
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Humphrey Fonge
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0W8, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Mohan Babu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Francisco S Cayabyab
- Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Research Group, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E5, Canada.
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7
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Shi YP, Thouta S, Claydon TW. Modulation of hERG K + Channel Deactivation by Voltage Sensor Relaxation. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:139. [PMID: 32184724 PMCID: PMC7059196 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hERG (human-ether-à-go-go-related gene) channel underlies the rapid delayed rectifier current, Ikr, in the heart, which is essential for normal cardiac electrical activity and rhythm. Slow deactivation is one of the hallmark features of the unusual gating characteristics of hERG channels, and plays a crucial role in providing a robust current that aids repolarization of the cardiac action potential. As such, there is significant interest in elucidating the underlying mechanistic determinants of slow hERG channel deactivation. Recent work has shown that the hERG channel S4 voltage sensor is stabilized following activation in a process termed relaxation. Voltage sensor relaxation results in energetic separation of the activation and deactivation pathways, producing a hysteresis, which modulates the kinetics of deactivation gating. Despite widespread observation of relaxation behaviour in other voltage-gated K+ channels, such as Shaker, Kv1.2 and Kv3.1, as well as the voltage-sensing phosphatase Ci-VSP, the relationship between stabilization of the activated voltage sensor by the open pore and voltage sensor relaxation in the control of deactivation has only recently begun to be explored. In this review, we discuss present knowledge and questions raised related to the voltage sensor relaxation mechanism in hERG channels and compare structure-function aspects of relaxation with those observed in related ion channels. We focus discussion, in particular, on the mechanism of coupling between voltage sensor relaxation and deactivation gating to highlight the insight that these studies provide into the control of hERG channel deactivation gating during their physiological functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Patrick Shi
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Samrat Thouta
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas W Claydon
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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8
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Cowgill J, Chanda B. The contribution of voltage clamp fluorometry to the understanding of channel and transporter mechanisms. J Gen Physiol 2019; 151:1163-1172. [PMID: 31431491 PMCID: PMC6785729 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cowgill and Chanda discuss the importance of voltage clamp fluorometry to the functional interpretation of ion channel and transporter structures. Key advances in single particle cryo-EM methods in the past decade have ushered in a resolution revolution in modern biology. The structures of many ion channels and transporters that were previously recalcitrant to crystallography have now been solved. Yet, despite having atomistic models of many complexes, some in multiple conformations, it has been challenging to glean mechanistic insight from these structures. To some extent this reflects our inability to unambiguously assign a given structure to a particular physiological state. One approach that may allow us to bridge this gap between structure and function is voltage clamp fluorometry (VCF). Using this technique, dynamic conformational changes can be measured while simultaneously monitoring the functional state of the channel or transporter. Many of the important papers that have used VCF to probe the gating mechanisms of channels and transporters have been published in the Journal of General Physiology. In this review, we provide an overview of the development of VCF and discuss some of the key problems that have been addressed using this approach. We end with a brief discussion of the outlook for this technique in the era of high-resolution structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Cowgill
- Graduate Program in Biophysics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Baron Chanda
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI .,Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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9
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de la Peña P, Domínguez P, Barros F. Gating mechanism of Kv11.1 (hERG) K + channels without covalent connection between voltage sensor and pore domains. Pflugers Arch 2017; 470:517-536. [PMID: 29270671 PMCID: PMC5805800 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-017-2093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Kv11.1 (hERG, KCNH2) is a voltage-gated potassium channel crucial in setting the cardiac rhythm and the electrical behaviour of several non-cardiac cell types. Voltage-dependent gating of Kv11.1 can be reconstructed from non-covalently linked voltage sensing and pore modules (split channels), challenging classical views of voltage-dependent channel activation based on a S4–S5 linker acting as a rigid mechanical lever to open the gate. Progressive displacement of the split position from the end to the beginning of the S4–S5 linker induces an increasing negative shift in activation voltage dependence, a reduced zg value and a more negative ΔG0 for current activation, an almost complete abolition of the activation time course sigmoid shape and a slowing of the voltage-dependent deactivation. Channels disconnected at the S4–S5 linker near the S4 helix show a destabilization of the closed state(s). Furthermore, the isochronal ion current mode shift magnitude is clearly reduced in the different splits. Interestingly, the progressive modifications of voltage dependence activation gating by changing the split position are accompanied by a shift in the voltage-dependent availability to a methanethiosulfonate reagent of a Cys introduced at the upper S4 helix. Our data demonstrate for the first time that alterations in the covalent connection between the voltage sensor and the pore domains impact on the structural reorganizations of the voltage sensor domain. Also, they support the hypothesis that the S4–S5 linker integrates signals coming from other cytoplasmic domains that constitute either an important component or a crucial regulator of the gating machinery in Kv11.1 and other KCNH channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar de la Peña
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Edificio Santiago Gascón, Campus de El Cristo, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
| | - Pedro Domínguez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Edificio Santiago Gascón, Campus de El Cristo, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Francisco Barros
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Edificio Santiago Gascón, Campus de El Cristo, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.
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10
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The Fast Component of hERG Gating Charge: An Interaction between D411 in the S1 and S4 Residues. Biophys J 2017; 113:1979-1991. [PMID: 29117522 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Kv11.1 (hERG) is a voltage-gated potassium channel that shows very slow ionic current activation kinetics, and an unusual underlying biphasic gating charge movement with fast and slow components that differ greatly in time course. The structural basis and role of the fast component of gating charge (Qfast) is unclear, and its relationship to the slow activation of hERG channels is not understood. In this study we have used the cut-open oocyte voltage-clamp technique to investigate the relationship of fast gating charge movement-to-residue interactions between D411 at the bottom of the S1, and lower S4 domain charged and uncharged residues. Neutralization of D411 or K538 and V535A prevented Qfast and greatly accelerated overall charge movement. Voltage-clamp fluorometry showed a loss of a fast component of S4 fluorescence in D411N, V535A, and K538Q upon depolarization, whereas [2-(trimethyl ammonium) ethyl] methanethiosulfonate chloride modification of I521C in the outer S4 was enhanced at more negative potentials and at earlier times in these same mutants. A functional interaction between these regions during activation was suggested by ΔΔGo values >4.2 kJ/mol obtained from double mutant cycle analysis. The data indicate that interactions of S1 residue D411 with lower S4 residues stabilizes early closed states of the channel, and that disruption of these interactions results in both faster rates of activation gating and an elimination of the fast component of gating charge movement and of fluorescence. We propose that the Qfast charge movement during activation accompanies transitions through early closed states of the hERG activation pathway, and that the weak voltage dependence of these transitions limits the overall activation rate of hERG channels. Disruption of the D411-S4 interactions destabilizes these early closed states, leaving hERG channels able to activate at a rate similar to conventional potassium channels.
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11
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Savalli N, Pantazis A, Sigg D, Weiss JN, Neely A, Olcese R. The α2δ-1 subunit remodels CaV1.2 voltage sensors and allows Ca2+ influx at physiological membrane potentials. J Gen Physiol 2017; 148:147-59. [PMID: 27481713 PMCID: PMC4969795 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201611586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) in voltage-gated calcium channels sense the potential difference across membranes and interact with the pore to open it. Savalli et al. find that the accessory subunit α2δ-1 increases the sensitivity of VSDs I–III and also their efficiency of coupling to the pore. Excitation-evoked calcium influx across cellular membranes is strictly controlled by voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV), which possess four distinct voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) that direct the opening of a central pore. The energetic interactions between the VSDs and the pore are critical for tuning the channel’s voltage dependence. The accessory α2δ-1 subunit is known to facilitate CaV1.2 voltage-dependent activation, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. In this study, using voltage clamp fluorometry, we track the activation of the four individual VSDs in a human L-type CaV1.2 channel consisting of α1C and β3 subunits. We find that, without α2δ-1, the channel complex displays a right-shifted voltage dependence such that currents mainly develop at nonphysiological membrane potentials because of very weak VSD–pore interactions. The presence of α2δ-1 facilitates channel activation by increasing the voltage sensitivity (i.e., the effective charge) of VSDs I–III. Moreover, the α2δ-1 subunit also makes VSDs I–III more efficient at opening the channel by increasing the coupling energy between VSDs II and III and the pore, thus allowing Ca influx within the range of physiological membrane potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Savalli
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Antonios Pantazis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | | | - James N Weiss
- Department of Medicine (Cardiology), David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Alan Neely
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile
| | - Riccardo Olcese
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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12
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Abstract
Ion channels constitute a superfamily of membrane proteins found in all living creatures. Their activity allows fast translocation of ions across the plasma membrane down the ion's transmembrane electrochemical gradient, resulting in a difference in electrical potential across the plasma membrane, known as the membrane potential. A group within this superfamily, namely voltage-gated channels, displays activity that is sensitive to the membrane potential. The activity of voltage-gated channels is controlled by the membrane potential, while the membrane potential is changed by these channels' activity. This interplay produces variations in the membrane potential that have evolved into electrical signals in many organisms. These signals are essential for numerous biological processes, including neuronal activity, insulin release, muscle contraction, fertilization and many others. In recent years, the activity of the voltage-gated channels has been observed not to follow a simple relationship with the membrane potential. Instead, it has been shown that the activity of voltage-gated channel displays hysteresis. In fact, a growing number of evidence have demonstrated that the voltage dependence of channel activity is dynamically modulated by activity itself. In spite of the great impact that this property can have on electrical signaling, hysteresis in voltage-gated channels is often overlooked. Addressing this issue, this review provides examples of voltage-gated ion channels displaying hysteretic behavior. Further, this review will discuss how Dynamic Voltage Dependence in voltage-gated channels can have a physiological role in electrical signaling. Furthermore, this review will elaborate on the current thoughts on the mechanism underlying hysteresis in voltage-gated channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Villalba-Galea
- a Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences , University of the Pacific , Stockton , CA , USA
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13
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Ng CA, Gravel AE, Perry MD, Arnold AA, Marcotte I, Vandenberg JI. Tyrosine Residues from the S4-S5 Linker of Kv11.1 Channels Are Critical for Slow Deactivation. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:17293-302. [PMID: 27317659 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.729392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Slow deactivation of Kv11.1 channels is critical for its function in the heart. The S4-S5 linker, which joins the voltage sensor and pore domains, plays a critical role in this slow deactivation gating. Here, we use NMR spectroscopy to identify the membrane-bound surface of the S4S5 linker, and we show that two highly conserved tyrosine residues within the KCNH subfamily of channels are membrane-associated. Site-directed mutagenesis and electrophysiological analysis indicates that Tyr-542 interacts with both the pore domain and voltage sensor residues to stabilize activated conformations of the channel, whereas Tyr-545 contributes to the slow kinetics of deactivation by primarily stabilizing the transition state between the activated and closed states. Thus, the two tyrosine residues in the Kv11.1 S4S5 linker play critical but distinct roles in the slow deactivation phenotype, which is a hallmark of Kv11.1 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chai-Ann Ng
- From the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst and the St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia and
| | - Andrée E Gravel
- the Department of Chemistry, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal H3C 3P8, Québec, Canada
| | - Matthew D Perry
- From the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst and the St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia and
| | - Alexandre A Arnold
- the Department of Chemistry, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal H3C 3P8, Québec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Marcotte
- the Department of Chemistry, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal H3C 3P8, Québec, Canada
| | - Jamie I Vandenberg
- From the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst and the St. Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia and
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14
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Rezazadeh S, Hesketh JC, Fedida D. Rb+ Flux through hERG Channels Affects the Potency of Channel Blocking Drugs: Correlation with Data Obtained Using a High-Throughput Rb+ Efflux Assay. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 9:588-97. [PMID: 15475478 DOI: 10.1177/1087057104264798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The nonradioactive Rb+ efflux assay has become a reliable and efficient high-throughput hERG screening method, but it is limited by its low sensitivity for potent hERG blockers. Using the patch clamp technique, the authors found that the low sensitivity is due in part to the use of Rb+ as the permeating cation in the assay. The affinities of the drugs measured by patch clamp technique in the presence of Rb+ were 3- to 10-fold lower than when measured by the same method in the presence of K+ ions. The apparent affinity of the drugs decreased even further when monitored bytheRb+ efflux assay. It was also observed that Rb+ had minimal effects on the activation properties of channels while there was a significant change in the half-inactivation potential. This voltage shift reduces hERG channel inactivation at efflux assay potentials, and will reduce the affinity of hERG-blocking drugs that bind to inactivated states of the channel. In combination with the effects of elevated extracellular ion concentrations, it is likely that Rb+ modulation of hERG channel inactivation is largely responsible for the reduced drug potencies observed in the Rb+ efflux assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saman Rezazadeh
- Department of Physiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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15
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Guo J, Cheng YM, Lees-Miller JP, Perissinotti LL, Claydon TW, Hull CM, Thouta S, Roach DE, Durdagi S, Noskov SY, Duff HJ. NS1643 interacts around L529 of hERG to alter voltage sensor movement on the path to activation. Biophys J 2016; 108:1400-1413. [PMID: 25809253 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2014.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Activators of hERG1 such as NS1643 are being developed for congenital/acquired long QT syndrome. Previous studies identify the neighborhood of L529 around the voltage-sensor as a putative interacting site for NS1643. With NS1643, the V1/2 of activation of L529I (-34 ± 4 mV) is similar to wild-type (WT) (-37 ± 3 mV; P > 0.05). WT and L529I showed no difference in the slope factor in the absence of NS1643 (8 ± 0 vs. 9 ± 0) but showed a difference in the presence of NS1643 (9 ± 0.3 vs. 22 ± 1; P < 0.01). Voltage-clamp-fluorimetry studies also indicated that in L529I, NS1643 reduces the voltage-sensitivity of S4 movement. To further assess mechanism of NS1643 action, mutations were made in this neighborhood. NS1643 shifts the V1/2 of activation of both K525C and K525C/L529I to hyperpolarized potentials (-131 ± 4 mV for K525C and -120 ± 21 mV for K525C/L529I). Both K525C and K525C/K529I had similar slope factors in the absence of NS1643 (18 ± 2 vs. 34 ± 5, respectively) but with NS1643, the slope factor of K525C/L529I increased from 34 ± 5 to 71 ± 10 (P < 0.01) whereas for K525C the slope factor did not change (18 ± 2 at baseline and 16 ± 2 for NS1643). At baseline, K525R had a slope factor similar to WT (9 vs. 8) but in the presence of NS1643, the slope factor of K525R was increased to 24 ± 4 vs. 9 ± 0 mV for WT (P < 0.01). Molecular modeling indicates that L529I induces a kink in the S4 voltage-sensor helix, altering a salt-bridge involving K525. Moreover, docking studies indicate that NS1643 binds to the kinked structure induced by the mutation with a higher affinity. Combining biophysical, computational, and electrophysiological evidence, a mechanistic principle governing the action of some activators of hERG1 channels is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiqing Guo
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yen May Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Molecular Cardiac Physiology Group, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James P Lees-Miller
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Laura L Perissinotti
- Centre for Molecular Simulations, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tom W Claydon
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Molecular Cardiac Physiology Group, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christina M Hull
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Molecular Cardiac Physiology Group, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Samrat Thouta
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Molecular Cardiac Physiology Group, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel E Roach
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Serdar Durdagi
- Centre for Molecular Simulations, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sergei Y Noskov
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Centre for Molecular Simulations, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Henry J Duff
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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16
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Goodchild SJ, Macdonald LC, Fedida D. Sequence of gating charge movement and pore gating in HERG activation and deactivation pathways. Biophys J 2016; 108:1435-1447. [PMID: 25809256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2015.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
KV11.1 voltage-gated K(+) channels are noted for unusually slow activation, fast inactivation, and slow deactivation kinetics, which tune channel activity to provide vital repolarizing current during later stages of the cardiac action potential. The bulk of charge movement in human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) is slow, as is return of charge upon repolarization, suggesting that the rates of hERG channel opening and, critically, that of deactivation might be determined by slow voltage sensor movement, and also by a mode-shift after activation. To test these ideas, we compared the kinetics and voltage dependence of ionic activation and deactivation with gating charge movement. At 0 mV, gating charge moved ∼threefold faster than ionic current, which suggests the presence of additional slow transitions downstream of charge movement in the physiological activation pathway. A significant voltage sensor mode-shift was apparent by 24 ms at +60 mV in gating currents, and return of charge closely tracked pore closure after pulses of 100 and 300 ms duration. A deletion of the N-terminus PAS domain, mutation R4AR5A or the LQT2-causing mutation R56Q gave faster-deactivating channels that displayed an attenuated mode-shift of charge. This indicates that charge movement is perturbed by N- and C-terminus interactions, and that these domain interactions stabilize the open state and limit the rate of charge return. We conclude that slow on-gating charge movement can only partly account for slow hERG ionic activation, and that the rate of pore closure has a limiting role in the slow return of gating charges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Goodchild
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Logan C Macdonald
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David Fedida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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17
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Priest M, Bezanilla F. Functional Site-Directed Fluorometry. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 869:55-76. [PMID: 26381940 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2845-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Initially developed in the mid-1990s to examine the conformational changes of the canonical Shaker voltage-gated potassium channel, functional site-directed fluorometry has since been expanded to numerous other voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels as well as transporters, pumps, and other integral membrane proteins. The power of functional site-directed fluorometry, also known as voltage-clamp fluorometry, lies in its ability to provide information on the conformational changes in a protein in response to changes in its environment with high temporal resolution while simultaneously monitoring the function of that protein. Over time, applications of site-directed fluorometry have expanded to examine the interactions of ion channels with modulators ranging from membrane potential to ligands to accessory protein subunits to lipids. In the future, the range of questions answerable by functional site-directed fluorometry and its interpretive power should continue to improve, making it an even more powerful technique for dissecting the conformational dynamics of ion channels and other membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Priest
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Committee on Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Gordon Center for Integrative Science W229M, 929 East 57th Street, 60637, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Francisco Bezanilla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Committee on Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Gordon Center for Integrative Science W229M, 929 East 57th Street, 60637, Chicago, IL, USA.
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18
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Zhu W, Varga Z, Silva JR. Molecular motions that shape the cardiac action potential: Insights from voltage clamp fluorometry. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 120:3-17. [PMID: 26724572 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Very recently, voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) protocols have been developed to observe the membrane proteins responsible for carrying the ventricular ionic currents that form the action potential (AP), including those carried by the cardiac Na(+) channel, NaV1.5, the L-type Ca(2+) channel, CaV1.2, the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase, and the rapid and slow components of the delayed rectifier, KV11.1 and KV7.1. This development is significant, because VCF enables simultaneous observation of ionic current kinetics with conformational changes occurring within specific channel domains. The ability gained from VCF, to connect nanoscale molecular movement to ion channel function has revealed how the voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) control ion flux through channel pores, mechanisms of post-translational regulation and the molecular pathology of inherited mutations. In the future, we expect that this data will be of great use for the creation of multi-scale computational AP models that explicitly represent ion channel conformations, connecting molecular, cell and tissue electrophysiology. Here, we review the VCF protocol, recent results, and discuss potential future developments, including potential use of these experimental findings to create novel computational models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wandi Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Zoltan Varga
- MTA-DE-NAP B Ion Channel Structure-Function Research Group, RCMM, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Jonathan R Silva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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19
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Talwar S, Lynch JW. Investigating ion channel conformational changes using voltage clamp fluorometry. Neuropharmacology 2015; 98:3-12. [PMID: 25839896 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are membrane proteins whose functions are governed by conformational changes. The widespread distribution of ion channels, coupled with their involvement in most physiological and pathological processes and their importance as therapeutic targets, renders the elucidation of these conformational mechanisms highly compelling from a drug discovery perspective. Thanks to recent advances in structural biology techniques, we now have high-resolution static molecular structures for members of the major ion channel families. However, major questions remain to be resolved about the conformational states that ion channels adopt during activation, drug modulation and desensitization. Patch-clamp electrophysiology has long been used to define ion channel conformational states based on functional criteria. It achieves this by monitoring conformational changes at the channel gate and cannot detect conformational changes occurring in regions distant from the gate. Voltage clamp fluorometry involves labelling cysteines introduced into domains of interest with environmentally sensitive fluorophores and inferring structural rearrangements from voltage or ligand-induced fluorescence changes. Ion channel currents are monitored simultaneously to verify the conformational status. By defining real time conformational changes in domains distant from the gate, this technique provides unexpected new insights into ion channel structure and function. This review aims to summarise the methodology and highlight recent innovative applications of this powerful technique. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Fluorescent Tools in Neuropharmacology'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahil Talwar
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Joseph W Lynch
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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20
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Proline scan of the HERG channel S6 helix reveals the location of the intracellular pore gate. Biophys J 2014; 106:1057-69. [PMID: 24606930 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2014.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In Shaker-like channels, the activation gate is formed at the bundle crossing by the convergence of the inner S6 helices near a conserved proline-valine-proline motif, which introduces a kink that allows for electromechanical coupling with voltage sensor motions via the S4-S5 linker. Human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) channels lack the proline-valine-proline motif and the location of the intracellular pore gate and how it is coupled to S4 movement is less clear. Here, we show that proline substitutions within the S6 of hERG perturbed pore gate closure, trapping channels in the open state. Performing a proline scan of the inner S6 helix, from Ile(655) to Tyr(667) revealed that gate perturbation occurred with proximal (I655P-Q664P), but not distal (R665P-Y667P) substitutions, suggesting that Gln(664) marks the position of the intracellular gate in hERG channels. Using voltage-clamp fluorimetry and gating current analysis, we demonstrate that proline substitutions trap the activation gate open by disrupting the coupling between the voltage-sensing unit and the pore of the channel. We characterize voltage sensor movement in one such trapped-open mutant channel and demonstrate the kinetics of what we interpret to be intrinsic hERG voltage sensor movement.
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21
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Mitcheson J, Arcangeli A. The Therapeutic Potential of hERG1 K+ Channels for Treating Cancer and Cardiac Arrhythmias. ION CHANNEL DRUG DISCOVERY 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/9781849735087-00258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
hERG potassium channels present pharmacologists and medicinal chemists with a dilemma. On the one hand hERG is a major reason for drugs being withdrawn from the market because of drug induced long QT syndrome and the associated risk of inducing sudden cardiac death, and yet hERG blockers are still widely used in the clinic to treat cardiac arrhythmias. Moreover, in the last decade overwhelming evidence has been provided that hERG channels are aberrantly expressed in cancer cells and that they contribute to tumour cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and neoangiogenesis. Here we provide an overview of the properties of hERG channels and their role in excitable cells of the heart and nervous system as well as in cancer. We consider the therapeutic potential of hERG, not only with regard to the negative impact due to drug induced long QT syndrome, but also its future potential as a treatment in the fight against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mitcheson
- University of Leicester, Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical Sciences Building University Road Leicester LE1 9HN UK
| | - Annarosa Arcangeli
- Department of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Florence Viale GB Morgagni, 50 50134 Firenze Italy
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22
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Dhillon MS, Cockcroft CJ, Munsey T, Smith KJ, Powell AJ, Carter P, Wrighton DC, Rong HL, Yusaf SP, Sivaprasadarao A. A functional Kv1.2-hERG chimaeric channel expressed in Pichia pastoris. Sci Rep 2014; 4:4201. [PMID: 24569544 PMCID: PMC3935203 DOI: 10.1038/srep04201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the six-transmembrane segment family of ion channels share a common structural design. However, there are sequence differences between the members that confer distinct biophysical properties on individual channels. Currently, we do not have 3D structures for all members of the family to help explain the molecular basis for the differences in their biophysical properties and pharmacology. This is due to low-level expression of many members in native or heterologous systems. One exception is rat Kv1.2 which has been overexpressed in Pichia pastoris and crystallised. Here, we tested chimaeras of rat Kv1.2 with the hERG channel for function in Xenopus oocytes and for overexpression in Pichia. Chimaera containing the S1-S6 transmembrane region of HERG showed functional and pharmacological properties similar to hERG and could be overexpressed and purified from Pichia. Our results demonstrate that rat Kv1.2 could serve as a surrogate to express difficult-to-overexpress members of the six-transmembrane segment channel family.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tim Munsey
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences
| | - Kathrine J Smith
- GlaxoSmithKline, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Andrew J Powell
- GlaxoSmithKline, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Paul Carter
- GlaxoSmithKline, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2NY, UK
| | | | - Hong-lin Rong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences
| | - Shahnaz P Yusaf
- GlaxoSmithKline, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2NY, UK
| | - Asipu Sivaprasadarao
- 1] School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences [2] Multidisciplinary Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, Leeds, U.K
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23
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Shi YP, Cheng YM, Van Slyke AC, Claydon TW. External protons destabilize the activated voltage sensor in hERG channels. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2013; 43:59-69. [PMID: 24362825 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-013-0940-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular acidosis shifts hERG channel activation to more depolarized potentials and accelerates channel deactivation; however, the mechanisms underlying these effects are unclear. External divalent cations, e.g., Ca(2+) and Cd(2+), mimic these effects and coordinate within a metal ion binding pocket composed of three acidic residues in hERG: D456 and D460 in S2 and D509 in S3. A common mechanism may underlie divalent cation and proton effects on hERG gating. Using two-electrode voltage clamp, we show proton sensitivity of hERG channel activation (pKa = 5.6), but not deactivation, was greatly reduced in the presence of Cd(2+) (0.1 mM), suggesting a common binding site for the Cd(2+) and proton effect on activation and separable effects of protons on activation and deactivation. Mutational analysis confirmed that D509 plays a critical role in the pH dependence of activation, as shown previously, and that cooperative actions involving D456 and D460 are also required. Importantly, neutralization of all three acidic residues abolished the proton-induced shift of activation, suggesting that the metal ion binding pocket alone accounts for the effects of protons on hERG channel activation. Voltage-clamp fluorimetry measurements demonstrated that protons shifted the voltage dependence of S4 movement to more depolarized potentials. The data indicate a site and mechanism of action for protons on hERG activation gating; protonation of D456, D460 and D509 disrupts interactions between these residues and S4 gating charges to destabilize the activated configuration of S4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Patrick Shi
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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24
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Goodchild SJ, Fedida D. Gating charge movement precedes ionic current activation in hERG channels. Channels (Austin) 2013; 8:84-9. [PMID: 24126078 PMCID: PMC4048346 DOI: 10.4161/chan.26775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We recently reported gating currents recorded from hERG channels expressed in mammalian TSA cells and assessed the kinetics at different voltages. We detected 2 distinct components of charge movement with the bulk of the charge being carried by a slower component. Here we compare our findings in TSA cells with recordings made from oocytes using the Cut Open Vaseline Gap clamp (COVG) and go on to directly compare activation of gating charge and ionic currents at 0 and +60 mV. The data show that gating charge saturates and moves more rapidly than ionic current activates suggesting a transition downstream from the movement of the bulk of gating charge is rate limiting for channel opening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Goodchild
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics; University of British Columbia; Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - David Fedida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics; University of British Columbia; Vancouver, BC Canada
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25
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Dou Y, Goodchild SJ, Velde RV, Wu Y, Fedida D. The neutral, hydrophobic isoleucine at position I521 in the extracellular S4 domain of hERG contributes to channel gating equilibrium. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013; 305:C468-78. [PMID: 23761630 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00147.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The human ether-a-go-go related (hERG) potassium channel has unusual functional characteristics in that the rates of channel activation and deactivation are much slower than inactivation, which is attributed to specific structural elements within the NH2 terminus and the S1-S4 voltage-sensing domains (VSD). Although the charged residues in the VSD have been extensively modified and mutated as a result, the role and importance of specific hydrophobic residues in the S4 has been much less explored in studies of hERG gating. We found that charged, but not neutral or hydrophobic, amino acid substitution of isoleucine 521 at the outer end of the S4 transmembrane domain resulted in channels activating at much more negative voltages associated with a marked hyperpolarization of the conductance-voltage (G-V) relationship. The contributions of different physicochemical properties to this effect were probed by chemical modification of channels substituted with cysteine at position I521. When positively charged reagents including tetramethyl-rhodamine-5-maleimide (TMRM), 1-(2-maleimidylethyl)-4-[5-(4-methoxyphenyl)oxazol-2-yl] pyridinium methane-sulfonate (PyMPO), [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl] methanethiosulfonate chloride (MTSET), and 2-aminoethyl methanethiosulfonate hydrobromide (MTSEA) were bound to the cysteine, I521C channels activated at more negative membrane potentials. To examine the contributions to hERG gating of other residues at the outer end of S4 (520-528), we performed a cysteine scan combined with MTSET modification. Only L520C, along with I521C, shows a substantial hyperpolarizing shift of the G-V relationship upon MTSET modification. The data indicate that the neutral, hydrophobic residue I521 at the extracellular end of S4 is critical for stabilizing the closed conformation of the hERG channel relative to the open state and by comparison with Shaker supports the alignment of hERG I521 with Shaker L361.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Dou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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26
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Islas LD. The electric heart of hERG. J Gen Physiol 2013; 141:409-11. [PMID: 23478994 PMCID: PMC3607827 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201310973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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27
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Wang Z, Dou Y, Goodchild SJ, Es-Salah-Lamoureux Z, Fedida D. Components of gating charge movement and S4 voltage-sensor exposure during activation of hERG channels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 141:431-43. [PMID: 23478995 PMCID: PMC3607828 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201210942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The human ether-á-go-go–related gene (hERG) K+ channel encodes the pore-forming α subunit of the rapid delayed rectifier current, IKr, and has unique activation gating kinetics, in that the α subunit of the channel activates and deactivates very slowly, which focuses the role of IKr current to a critical period during action potential repolarization in the heart. Despite its physiological importance, fundamental mechanistic properties of hERG channel activation gating remain unclear, including how voltage-sensor movement rate limits pore opening. Here, we study this directly by recording voltage-sensor domain currents in mammalian cells for the first time and measuring the rates of voltage-sensor modification by [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl] methanethiosulfonate chloride (MTSET). Gating currents recorded from hERG channels expressed in mammalian tsA201 cells using low resistance pipettes show two charge systems, defined as Q1 and Q2, with V1/2’s of −55.7 (equivalent charge, z = 1.60) and −54.2 mV (z = 1.30), respectively, with the Q2 charge system carrying approximately two thirds of the overall gating charge. The time constants for charge movement at 0 mV were 2.5 and 36.2 ms for Q1 and Q2, decreasing to 4.3 ms for Q2 at +60 mV, an order of magnitude faster than the time constants of ionic current appearance at these potentials. The voltage and time dependence of Q2 movement closely correlated with the rate of MTSET modification of I521C in the outermost region of the S4 segment, which had a V1/2 of −64 mV and time constants of 36 ± 8.5 ms and 11.6 ± 6.3 ms at 0 and +60 mV, respectively. Modeling of Q1 and Q2 charge systems showed that a minimal scheme of three transitions is sufficient to account for the experimental findings. These data point to activation steps further downstream of voltage-sensor movement that provide the major delays to pore opening in hERG channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuren Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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28
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Ng HQ, Kim YM, Huang Q, Gayen S, Yildiz AA, Yoon HS, Sinner EK, Kang C. Purification and structural characterization of the voltage-sensor domain of the hERG potassium channel. Protein Expr Purif 2012; 86:98-104. [PMID: 23041462 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2012.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The hERG (human ether à go-go related gene) potassium channel is a voltage-gated potassium channel playing important roles in the heart by controlling the rapid delayed rectifier potassium current. The hERG protein contains a voltage-sensor domain (VSD) that is important for sensing voltage changes across the membrane. Mutations in this domain contribute to serious heart diseases. To study the structure of the VSD, it was over-expressed in Escherichia coli and purified into detergent micelles. Lyso-myristoyl phosphatidylglycerol (LMPG) was shown to be a suitable detergent for VSD purification and folding. Secondary structural analysis using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy indicated that the purified VSD in LMPG micelles adopted α-helical structures. Purified VSD in LMPG micelles produced dispersed cross-peaks in a (15)N-HSQC spectrum. Backbone resonance assignments for residues from transmembrane segments S3 and S4 of VSD also confirmed the presence of α-helical structures in this domain. Our results demonstrated that structure of VSD can be investigated using NMR spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Qi Ng
- Experimental Therapeutics Centre, Singapore
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29
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Tan PS, Perry MD, Ng CA, Vandenberg JI, Hill AP. Voltage-sensing domain mode shift is coupled to the activation gate by the N-terminal tail of hERG channels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 140:293-306. [PMID: 22891279 PMCID: PMC3434099 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201110761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Human ether-a-go-go–related gene (hERG) potassium channels exhibit unique gating kinetics characterized by unusually slow activation and deactivation. The N terminus of the channel, which contains an amphipathic helix and an unstructured tail, has been shown to be involved in regulation of this slow deactivation. However, the mechanism of how this occurs and the connection between voltage-sensing domain (VSD) return and closing of the gate are unclear. To examine this relationship, we have used voltage-clamp fluorometry to simultaneously measure VSD motion and gate closure in N-terminally truncated constructs. We report that mode shifting of the hERG VSD results in a corresponding shift in the voltage-dependent equilibrium of channel closing and that at negative potentials, coupling of the mode-shifted VSD to the gate defines the rate of channel closure. Deletion of the first 25 aa from the N terminus of hERG does not alter mode shifting of the VSD but uncouples the shift from closure of the cytoplasmic gate. Based on these observations, we propose the N-terminal tail as an adaptor that couples voltage sensor return to gate closure to define slow deactivation gating in hERG channels. Furthermore, because the mode shift occurs on a time scale relevant to the cardiac action potential, we suggest a physiological role for this phenomenon in maximizing current flow through hERG channels during repolarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Tan
- Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
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30
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Gustina AS, Trudeau MC. HERG potassium channel regulation by the N-terminal eag domain. Cell Signal 2012; 24:1592-8. [PMID: 22522181 PMCID: PMC4793660 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2012.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Human ether-á-go-go related gene (hERG, K(v)11.1) potassium channels play a significant role in cardiac excitability. Like other K(v) channels, hERG is activated by membrane voltage; however, distinct from other K(v) channels, hERG channels have unusually slow kinetics of closing (deactivation). The mechanism for slow deactivation involves an N-terminal "eag domain" which comprises a PAS (Per-Arnt-Sim) domain and a short Cap domain. Here we review recent advances in understanding how the eag domain regulates deactivation, including several new Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) solution structures of the eag domain, and evidence showing that the eag domain makes a direct interaction with the C-terminal C-linker and Cyclic Nucleotide-Binding Homology Domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahleah S. Gustina
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, 660 W Redwood St, Baltimore, MD 21201
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, 660 W Redwood St, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Matthew C. Trudeau
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, 660 W Redwood St, Baltimore, MD 21201
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31
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Vandenberg JI, Perry MD, Perrin MJ, Mann SA, Ke Y, Hill AP. hERG K+ Channels: Structure, Function, and Clinical Significance. Physiol Rev 2012; 92:1393-478. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00036.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 463] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) encodes the pore-forming subunit of the rapid component of the delayed rectifier K+ channel, Kv11.1, which are expressed in the heart, various brain regions, smooth muscle cells, endocrine cells, and a wide range of tumor cell lines. However, it is the role that Kv11.1 channels play in the heart that has been best characterized, for two main reasons. First, it is the gene product involved in chromosome 7-associated long QT syndrome (LQTS), an inherited disorder associated with a markedly increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Second, blockade of Kv11.1, by a wide range of prescription medications, causes drug-induced QT prolongation with an increase in risk of sudden cardiac arrest. In the first part of this review, the properties of Kv11.1 channels, including biogenesis, trafficking, gating, and pharmacology are discussed, while the second part focuses on the pathophysiology of Kv11.1 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie I. Vandenberg
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Matthew D. Perry
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mark J. Perrin
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Stefan A. Mann
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ying Ke
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Adam P. Hill
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Programme in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, Australia; and University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Canada
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32
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Cheng YM, Claydon TW. Voltage-dependent gating of HERG potassium channels. Front Pharmacol 2012; 3:83. [PMID: 22586397 PMCID: PMC3347040 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms by which voltage-gated channels sense changes in membrane voltage and energetically couple this with opening of the ion conducting pore has been the source of significant interest. In voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, much of our knowledge in this area comes from Shaker-type channels, for which voltage-dependent gating is quite rapid. In these channels, activation and deactivation are associated with rapid reconfiguration of the voltage-sensing domain unit that is electromechanically coupled, via the S4-S5 linker helix, to the rate-limiting opening of an intracellular pore gate. However, fast voltage-dependent gating kinetics are not typical of all Kv channels, such as Kv11.1 (human ether-à-go-go related gene, hERG), which activates and deactivates very slowly. Compared to Shaker channels, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying slow hERG gating is much poorer. Here, we present a comparative review of the structure-function relationships underlying activation and deactivation gating in Shaker and hERG channels, with a focus on the roles of the voltage-sensing domain and the S4-S5 linker that couples voltage sensor movements to the pore. Measurements of gating current kinetics and fluorimetric analysis of voltage sensor movement are consistent with models suggesting that the hERG activation pathway contains a voltage independent step, which limits voltage sensor transitions. Constraints upon hERG voltage sensor movement may result from loose packing of the S4 helices and additional intra-voltage sensor counter-charge interactions. More recent data suggest that key amino acid differences in the hERG voltage-sensing unit and S4-S5 linker, relative to fast activating Shaker-type Kv channels, may also contribute to the increased stability of the resting state of the voltage sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen May Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University Burnaby, BC, Canada
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33
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Van Slyke AC, Cheng YM, Mafi P, Allard CR, Hull CM, Shi YP, Claydon TW. Proton block of the pore underlies the inhibition of hERG cardiac K+ channels during acidosis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2012; 302:C1797-806. [PMID: 22517356 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00324.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channels are critical determinants of cardiac repolarization. Loss of function of hERG channels is associated with Long QT Syndrome, arrhythmia, and sudden death. Acidosis occurring as a result of myocardial ischemia inhibits hERG channel function and may cause a predisposition to arrhythmias. Acidic pH inhibits hERG channel maximal conductance and accelerates deactivation, likely by different mechanisms. The mechanism underlying the loss of conductance has not been demonstrated and is the focus of the present study. The data presented demonstrate that, unlike in other voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, substitution of individual histidine residues did not abolish the pH dependence of hERG channel conductance. Abolition of inactivation, by the mutation S620T, also did not affect the proton sensitivity of channel conductance. Instead, voltage-dependent channel inhibition (δ = 0.18) indicative of pore block was observed. Consistent with a fast block of the pore, hERG S620T single channel data showed an apparent reduction of the single channel current amplitude at low pH. Furthermore, the effect of protons was relieved by elevating external K(+) or Na(+) and could be modified by charge introduction within the outer pore. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that extracellular protons inhibit hERG maximal conductance by blocking the external channel pore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C Van Slyke
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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34
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Jiménez-Vargas JM, Restano-Cassulini R, Possani LD. Toxin modulators and blockers of hERG K(+) channels. Toxicon 2012; 60:492-501. [PMID: 22497787 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The K(+) channel encoded by the Ether-á-go-go-Related Gene (ERG) is expressed in different tissues of different animal species. There are at least three subtypes of this channel, being the sub-type 1 (ERG1) crucial in the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. Mutations in this gene can affect the properties of the channel producing the type II long QT syndrome (LQTS2) and many drugs are also known to affect this channel with a similar side effect. Various scorpion, spider and sea anemone toxins affect the ERG currents by blocking the ion-conducting pore from the external side or by modulating channel gating through binding to the voltage-sensor domain. By doing so, these toxins become very useful tools for better understanding the structural and functional characteristics of these ion channels. This review discusses the interaction between the ERG channels and the peptides isolated from venoms of these animals. Special emphasis is placed on scorpion toxins, although the effects of several spider venom toxins and anemone toxins will be also revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Jiménez-Vargas
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Institute of Biotechnology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 2001, P.O. Box 501-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico.
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35
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Barros F, Domínguez P, de la Peña P. Cytoplasmic domains and voltage-dependent potassium channel gating. Front Pharmacol 2012; 3:49. [PMID: 22470342 PMCID: PMC3311039 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The basic architecture of the voltage-dependent K+ channels (Kv channels) corresponds to a transmembrane protein core in which the permeation pore, the voltage-sensing components and the gating machinery (cytoplasmic facing gate and sensor–gate coupler) reside. Usually, large protein tails are attached to this core, hanging toward the inside of the cell. These cytoplasmic regions are essential for normal channel function and, due to their accessibility to the cytoplasmic environment, constitute obvious targets for cell-physiological control of channel behavior. Here we review the present knowledge about the molecular organization of these intracellular channel regions and their role in both setting and controlling Kv voltage-dependent gating properties. This includes the influence that they exert on Kv rapid/N-type inactivation and on activation/deactivation gating of Shaker-like and eag-type Kv channels. Some illustrative examples about the relevance of these cytoplasmic domains determining the possibilities for modulation of Kv channel gating by cellular components are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Barros
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universidad de Oviedo Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
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36
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Shen B, Xiang Z, Miller B, Louie G, Wang W, Noel JP, Gage FH, Wang L. Genetically encoding unnatural amino acids in neural stem cells and optically reporting voltage-sensitive domain changes in differentiated neurons. Stem Cells 2011; 29:1231-40. [PMID: 21681861 PMCID: PMC3209808 DOI: 10.1002/stem.679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although unnatural amino acids (Uaas) have been genetically encoded in bacterial, fungal, and mammalian cells using orthogonal transfer RNA (tRNA)/aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase pairs, applications of this method to a wider range of specialized cell types, such as stem cells, still face challenges. While relatively straightforward in stem cells, transient expression lacks sufficient temporal resolution to afford reasonable levels of Uaa incorporation and to allow for the study of the longer term differentiation process of stem cells. Moreover, Uaa incorporation may perturb differentiation. Here, we describe a lentiviral-based gene delivery method to stably incorporate Uaas into proteins expressed in neural stem cells, specifically HCN-A94 cells. The transduced cells differentiated into neural progenies in the same manner as the wild-type cells. By genetically incorporating a fluorescent Uaa into a voltage-dependent membrane lipid phosphatase, we show that this Uaa optically reports the conformational change of the voltage-sensitive domain in response to membrane depolarization. The method described here should be generally applicable to other stem cells and membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Shen
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Zheng Xiang
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Barbara Miller
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Gordon Louie
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Wenyuan Wang
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Joseph P. Noel
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Fred H. Gage
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
| | - Lei Wang
- The Jack H. Skirball Center for Chemical Biology & Proteomics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California, 92037, U.S.A
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37
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Zhou PZ, Babcock J, Liu LQ, Li M, Gao ZB. Activation of human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) potassium channels by small molecules. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2011; 32:781-8. [PMID: 21623390 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2011.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) potassium (K(+)) channels play a critical role in cardiac action potential repolarization. Mutations that reduce hERG conductance or surface expression may cause congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS). However, the channels can be inhibited by structurally diverse small molecules, resulting in an acquired form of LQTS. Consequently, small molecules that increase the hERG current may be of value for treatment for LQTS. So far, nine hERG activators have been reported. The aim of this review is to discuss recent advances concerning the identification and action mechanism of hERG activators.
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38
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de la Peña P, Alonso-Ron C, Machín A, Fernández-Trillo J, Carretero L, Domínguez P, Barros F. Demonstration of physical proximity between the N terminus and the S4-S5 linker of the human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channel. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:19065-75. [PMID: 21474444 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.238899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Potassium channels encoded by the human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) contribute to cardiac repolarization as a result of their characteristic gating properties. The hERG channel N terminus acts as a crucial determinant in gating. It is also known that the S4-S5 linker couples the voltage-sensing machinery to the channel gate. Moreover, this linker has been repeatedly proposed as an interaction site for the distal portion of the N terminus controlling channel gating, but direct evidence for such an interaction is still lacking. In this study, we used disulfide bond formation between pairs of engineered cysteines to demonstrate the close proximity between the beginning of the N terminus and the S4-S5 linker. Currents from channels with introduced cysteines were rapidly and strongly attenuated by an oxidizing agent, this effect being maximal for cysteine pairs located around amino acids 3 and 542 of the hERG sequence. The state-dependent modification of the double-mutant channels, but not the single-cysteine mutants, and the ability to readily reverse modification with the reducing agent dithiothreitol indicate that a disulfide bond is formed under oxidizing conditions, locking the channels in a non-conducting state. We conclude that physical interactions between the N-terminal-most segment of the N terminus and the S4-S5 linker constitute an essential component of the hERG gating machinery, thus providing a molecular basis for previous data and indicating an important contribution of these cytoplasmic domains in controlling its unusual gating and hence determining its physiological role in setting the electrical behavior of cardiac and other cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar de la Peña
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
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39
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Horne AJ, Peters CJ, Claydon TW, Fedida D. Fast and slow voltage sensor rearrangements during activation gating in Kv1.2 channels detected using tetramethylrhodamine fluorescence. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 136:83-99. [PMID: 20584892 PMCID: PMC2894543 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201010413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Kv1.2 channel, with its high resolution crystal structure, provides an ideal model for investigating conformational changes associated with channel gating, and fluorescent probes attached at the extracellular end of S4 are a powerful way to gain a more complete understanding of the voltage-dependent activity of these dynamic proteins. Tetramethylrhodamine-5-maleimide (TMRM) attached at A291C reports two distinct rearrangements of the voltage sensor domains, and a comparative fluorescence scan of the S4 and S3-S4 linker residues in Shaker and Kv1.2 shows important differences in their emission at other homologous residues. Kv1.2 shows a rapid decrease in A291C emission with a time constant of 1.5 +/- 0.1 ms at 60 mV (n = 11) that correlates with gating currents and reports on translocation of the S4 and S3-S4 linker. However, unlike any Kv channel studied to date, this fast component is dwarfed by a larger, slower quenching of TMRM emission during depolarizations between -120 and -50 mV (tau = 21.4 +/- 2.1 ms at 60 mV, V(1/2) of -73.9 +/- 1.4 mV) that is not seen in either Shaker or Kv1.5 and that comprises >60% of the total signal at all activating potentials. The slow fluorescence relaxes after repolarization in a voltage-dependent manner that matches the time course of Kv1.2 ionic current deactivation. Fluorophores placed directly in S1 and S2 at I187 and T219 recapitulate the time course and voltage dependence of slow quenching. The slow component is lost when the extracellular S1-S2 linker of Kv1.2 is replaced with that of Kv1.5 or Shaker, suggesting that it arises from a continuous internal rearrangement within the voltage sensor, initiated at negative potentials but prevalent throughout the activation process, and which must be reversed for the channel to close.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew James Horne
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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40
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Van Slyke AC, Rezazadeh S, Snopkowski M, Shi P, Allard CR, Claydon TW. Mutations within the S4-S5 linker alter voltage sensor constraints in hERG K+ channels. Biophys J 2011; 99:2841-52. [PMID: 21044581 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2010.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2010] [Revised: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) channel gating is associated with slow activation, yet the mechanistic basis for this is unclear. Here, we examine the effects of mutation of a unique glycine residue (G546) in the S4-S5 linker on voltage sensor movement and its coupling to pore gating. Substitution of G546 with residues possessing different physicochemical properties shifted activation gating by ∼-50 mV (with the exception of G546C). With the activation shift taken into account, the time constant of activation was also accelerated, suggesting a stabilization of the closed state by ∼1.6-4.3 kcal/mol (the energy equivalent of one to two hydrogen bonds). Predictions of the α-helical content of the S4-S5 linker suggest that the presence of G546 in wild-type hERG provides flexibility to the helix. Deactivation gating was affected differentially by the G546 substitutions. G546V induced a pronounced slow component of closing that was voltage-independent. Fluorescence measurements of voltage sensor movement in G546V revealed a slow component of voltage sensor return that was uncoupled from charge movement, suggesting a direct effect of the mutation on voltage sensor movement. These data suggest that G546 plays a critical role in channel gating and that hERG channel closing involves at least two independently modifiable reconfigurations of the voltage sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C Van Slyke
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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41
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Pantazis A, Kohanteb AP, Olcese R. Relative motion of transmembrane segments S0 and S4 during voltage sensor activation in the human BK(Ca) channel. J Gen Physiol 2010; 136:645-57. [PMID: 21078868 PMCID: PMC2995153 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201010503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Large-conductance voltage- and Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK(Ca)) channel α subunits possess a unique transmembrane helix referred to as S0 at their N terminus, which is absent in other members of the voltage-gated channel superfamily. Recently, S0 was found to pack close to transmembrane segments S3 and S4, which are important components of the BK(Ca) voltage-sensing apparatus. To assess the role of S0 in voltage sensitivity, we optically tracked protein conformational rearrangements from its extracellular flank by site-specific labeling with an environment-sensitive fluorophore, tetramethylrhodamine maleimide (TMRM). The structural transitions resolved from the S0 region exhibited voltage dependence similar to that of charge-bearing transmembrane domains S2 and S4. The molecular determinant of the fluorescence changes was identified in W203 at the extracellular tip of S4: at hyperpolarized potential, W203 quenches the fluorescence of TMRM labeling positions at the N-terminal flank of S0. We provide evidence that upon depolarization, W203 (in S4) moves away from the extracellular region of S0, lifting its quenching effect on TMRM fluorescence. We suggest that S0 acts as a pivot component against which the voltage-sensitive S4 moves upon depolarization to facilitate channel activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios Pantazis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, Brain Research Institute, and Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90075
| | - Azadeh P. Kohanteb
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, Brain Research Institute, and Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90075
| | - Riccardo Olcese
- Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Molecular Medicine, Brain Research Institute, and Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90075
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Thomson AS, Rothberg BS. Voltage-dependent inactivation gating at the selectivity filter of the MthK K+ channel. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 136:569-79. [PMID: 20937694 PMCID: PMC2964515 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201010507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-dependent K+ channels can undergo a gating process known as C-type inactivation, which involves entry into a nonconducting state through conformational changes near the channel’s selectivity filter. C-type inactivation may involve movements of transmembrane voltage sensor domains, although the mechanisms underlying this form of inactivation may be heterogeneous and are often unclear. Here, we report on a form of voltage-dependent inactivation gating observed in MthK, a prokaryotic K+ channel that lacks a canonical voltage sensor and may thus provide a reduced system to inform on mechanism. In single-channel recordings, we observe that Po decreases with depolarization, with a half-maximal voltage of 96 ± 3 mV. This gating is kinetically distinct from blockade by internal Ca2+ or Ba2+, suggesting that it may arise from an intrinsic inactivation mechanism. Inactivation gating was shifted toward more positive voltages by increasing external [K+] (47 mV per 10-fold increase in [K+]), suggesting that K+ binding at the extracellular side of the channel stabilizes the open-conductive state. The open-conductive state was stabilized by other external cations, and selectivity of the stabilizing site followed the sequence: K+ ≈ Rb+ > Cs+ > Na+ > Li+ ≈ NMG+. Selectivity of the stabilizing site is weaker than that of sites that determine permeability of these ions, suggesting that the site may lie toward the external end of the MthK selectivity filter. We could describe MthK gating over a wide range of positive voltages and external [K+] using kinetic schemes in which the open-conductive state is stabilized by K+ binding to a site that is not deep within the electric field, with the voltage dependence of inactivation arising from both voltage-dependent K+ dissociation and transitions between nonconducting (inactivated) states. These results provide a quantitative working hypothesis for voltage-dependent, K+-sensitive inactivation gating, a property that may be common to other K+ channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Thomson
- Department of Biochemistry, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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Perry M, Sanguinetti M, Mitcheson J. Revealing the structural basis of action of hERG potassium channel activators and blockers. J Physiol 2010; 588:3157-67. [PMID: 20643767 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2010.194670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ether-á-go-go related gene (hERG) potassium (K(+)) channels play a critical role in cardiac action potential repolarization. This is due, in large part, to the unique gating properties of these channels, which are characterized by relatively slow activation and an unusually fast and voltage-dependent inactivation. A large number of structurally diverse compounds bind to hERG and carry an unacceptably high risk of causing arrhythmias. On the other hand, drugs that increase hERG current may, at least in principle, prove useful for treatment of long QT syndrome. A few blockers have been shown to increase hERG current at potentials close to the threshold for channel activation--a process referred to as facilitation. More recently, a novel group of hERG channel activators have been identified that slow deactivation and/or attenuate inactivation. Structural determinants for the action of two different types of activators have been identified. These compounds bind at sites that are distinct from each other and also separate from the binding site of high affinity blockers. They reveal not only novel ways of chemically manipulating hERG channel function, but also interactions between structural domains that are critical to normal activation and inactivation gating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Perry
- University of Utah, Department of Physiology, Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research & Training Institute, 95 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City,UT 84112, USA
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Es-Salah-Lamoureux Z, Fougere R, Xiong PY, Robertson GA, Fedida D. Fluorescence-tracking of activation gating in human ERG channels reveals rapid S4 movement and slow pore opening. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10876. [PMID: 20526358 PMCID: PMC2878317 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/07/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background hERG channels are physiologically important ion channels which mediate cardiac repolarization as a result of their unusual gating properties. These are very slow activation compared with other mammalian voltage-gated potassium channels, and extremely rapid inactivation. The mechanism of slow activation is not well understood and is investigated here using fluorescence as a direct measure of S4 movement and pore opening. Methods and Findings Tetramethylrhodamine-5-maleimide (TMRM) fluorescence at E519 has been used to track S4 voltage sensor movement, and channel opening and closing in hERG channels. Endogenous cysteines (C445 and C449) in the S1–S2 linker bound TMRM, which caused a 10 mV hyperpolarization of the V½ of activation to −27.5±2.0 mV, and showed voltage-dependent fluorescence signals. Substitution of S1–S2 linker cysteines with valines allowed unobstructed recording of S3–S4 linker E519C and L520C emission signals. Depolarization of E519C channels caused rapid initial fluorescence quenching, fit with a double Boltzmann relationship, F-VON, with V½,1 = −37.8±1.7 mV, and V½,2 = 43.5±7.9 mV. The first phase, V½,1, was ∼20 mV negative to the conductance-voltage relationship measured from ionic tail currents (G-V½ = −18.3±1.2 mV), and relatively unchanged in a non-inactivating E519C:S620T mutant (V½ = −34.4±1.5 mV), suggesting the fast initial fluorescence quenching tracked S4 voltage sensor movement. The second phase of rapid quenching was absent in the S620T mutant. The E519C fluorescence upon repolarization (V½ = −20.6±1.2, k = 11.4 mV) and L520C quenching during depolarization (V½ = −26.8±1.0, k = 13.3 mV) matched the respective voltage dependencies of hERG ionic tails, and deactivation time constants from −40 to −110 mV, suggesting they detected pore-S4 rearrangements related to ionic current flow during pore opening and closing. Conclusion The data indicate: 1) that rapid environmental changes occur at the outer end of S4 in hERG channels that underlie channel activation gating, and 2) that secondary slower changes reflect channel pore opening during sustained depolarizations, and channel closing upon repolarization. 3) No direct evidence was obtained of conformational changes related to inactivation from fluorophores attached at the outer end of S4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeineb Es-Salah-Lamoureux
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert Fougere
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ping Yu Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gail A. Robertson
- Department of Physiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - David Fedida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Grunnet M. Repolarization of the cardiac action potential. Does an increase in repolarization capacity constitute a new anti-arrhythmic principle? Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2010; 198 Suppl 676:1-48. [PMID: 20132149 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.2009.02072.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cardiac action potential can be divided into five distinct phases designated phases 0-4. The exact shape of the action potential comes about primarily as an orchestrated function of ion channels. The present review will give an overview of ion channels involved in generating the cardiac action potential with special emphasis on potassium channels involved in phase 3 repolarization. In humans, these channels are primarily K(v)11.1 (hERG1), K(v)7.1 (KCNQ1) and K(ir)2.1 (KCNJ2) being the responsible alpha-subunits for conducting I(Kr), I(Ks) and I(K1). An account will be given about molecular components, biophysical properties, regulation, interaction with other proteins and involvement in diseases. Both loss and gain of function of these currents are associated with different arrhythmogenic diseases. The second part of this review will therefore elucidate arrhythmias and subsequently focus on newly developed chemical entities having the ability to increase the activity of I(Kr), I(Ks) and I(K1). An evaluation will be given addressing the possibility that this novel class of compounds have the ability to constitute a new anti-arrhythmic principle. Experimental evidence from in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo settings will be included. Furthermore, conceptual differences between the short QT syndrome and I(Kr) activation will be accounted for.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Grunnet
- NeuroSearch A/S, Ballerup, and Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Transfer of rolf S3-S4 linker to HERG eliminates activation gating but spares inactivation. Biophys J 2009; 97:1323-34. [PMID: 19720020 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2009.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2008] [Revised: 05/20/2009] [Accepted: 05/28/2009] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies in Shaker, a voltage-dependent potassium channel, suggest a coupling between activation and inactivation. This coupling is controversial in hERG, a fast-inactivating voltage-dependent potassium channel. To address this question, we transferred to hERG the S3-S4 linker of the voltage-independent channel, rolf, to selectively disrupt the activation process. This chimera shows an intact voltage-dependent inactivation process consistent with a weak coupling, if any, between both processes. Kinetic models suggest that the chimera presents only an open and an inactivated states, with identical transition rates as in hERG. The lower sensitivity of the chimera to BeKm-1, a hERG preferential closed-state inhibitor, also suggests that the chimera presents mainly open and inactivated conformations. This chimera allows determining the mechanism of action of hERG blockers, as exemplified by the test on ketoconazole.
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Elliott DJS, Dondas NY, Munsey TS, Sivaprasadarao A. Movement of the S4 segment in the hERG potassium channel during membrane depolarization. Mol Membr Biol 2009; 26:435-47. [DOI: 10.3109/09687680903321081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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A recombinant N-terminal domain fully restores deactivation gating in N-truncated and long QT syndrome mutant hERG potassium channels. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:13082-7. [PMID: 19651618 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0900180106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human ether á go-go related gene (hERG) potassium channels play a central role in cardiac repolarization where channel closing (deactivation) regulates current density during action potentials. Consequently, mutations in hERG that perturb deactivation are linked to long QT syndrome (LQTS), a catastrophic cardiac arrhythmia. Interactions between an N-terminal domain and the pore-forming "core" of the channel were proposed to regulate deactivation, however, despite its central importance the mechanistic basis for deactivation is unclear. Here, to more directly examine the mechanism for regulation of deactivation, we genetically fused N-terminal domains to fluorescent proteins and tested channel function with electrophysiology and protein interactions with Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) spectroscopy. Truncation of hERG N-terminal regions markedly sped deactivation, and here we report that reapplication of gene fragments encoding N-terminal residues 1-135 (the "eag domain") was sufficient to restore regulation of deactivation. We show that fluorophore-tagged eag domains and N-truncated channels were in close proximity at the plasma membrane as determined with FRET. The eag domains with Y43A or R56Q (a LQTS locus) mutations showed less regulation of deactivation and less FRET, whereas eag domains restored regulation of deactivation gating to full-length Y43A or R56Q channels and showed FRET. This study demonstrates that direct, noncovalent interactions between the eag domain and the channel core were sufficient to regulate deactivation gating, that an LQTS mutation perturbed physical interactions between the eag domain and the channel, and that small molecules such as the eag domain represent a novel method for restoring function to channels with disease-causing mutations.
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Perrin MJ, Subbiah RN, Vandenberg JI, Hill AP. Human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) K+ channels: function and dysfunction. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 98:137-48. [PMID: 19027781 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2008.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The human Ether-a-go-go Related Gene (hERG) potassium channel plays a central role in regulating cardiac excitability and maintenance of normal cardiac rhythm. Mutations in hERG cause a third of all cases of congenital long QT syndrome, a disorder of cardiac repolarisation characterised by prolongation of the QT interval on the surface electrocardiogram, abnormal T waves, and a risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular arrhythmias. Additionally, the hERG channel protein is the molecular target for almost all drugs that cause the acquired form of long QT syndrome. Advances in understanding the structural basis of hERG gating, its traffic to the cell surface, and the molecular architecture involved in drug-block of hERG, are providing the foundation for rational treatment and prevention of hERG associated long QT syndrome. This review summarises the current knowledge of hERG function and dysfunction, and the areas of ongoing research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Perrin
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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hERG1 channel activators: A new anti-arrhythmic principle. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 98:347-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2009.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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