Distinct populations of HCN pacemaker channels produce voltage-dependent and voltage-independent currents

Similar voltage-sensor movement in spHCN channels can cause closing, opening, or inactivation

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels contribute to the rhythmic firing of pacemaker neurons and cardiomyocytes. Mutations in HCN channels are associated with cardiac arrhythmia and epilepsy. HCN channels belong to the superfamily of voltage-gated K+ channels, most of which are activated by depolarization. HCN channels, however, are activated by hyperpolarization. The mechanism behind this reversed gating polarity of HCN channels is not clear. We here show that sea urchin HCN (spHCN) channels with mutations in the C-terminal part of the voltage sensor use the same voltage-sensor movement to either close or open in response to hyperpolarizations depending on the absence or presence of cAMP. Our results support that non-covalent interactions at the C-terminal end of the voltage sensor are critical for HCN gating polarity. These interactions are also critical for the proper closing of the channels because these mutations exhibit large constitutive currents. Since a similar voltage-sensor movement can cause both depolarization- and hyperpolarization-activation in the same channel, this suggests that the coupling between the voltage sensor and the pore is changed to create channels opened by different polarities. We also show an identical voltage-sensor movement in activated and inactivated spHCN channels and suggest a model for spHCN activation and inactivation. Our results suggest the possibility that channels open by opposite voltage dependence, such as HCN and the related EAG channels, use the same voltage-sensor movement but different coupling mechanisms between the voltage sensor and the gate.

Frequency-Dependent Properties of the Hyperpolarization-Activated Cation Current, If, in Adult Mouse Heart Primary Pacemaker Myocytes

A number of distinct electrophysiological mechanisms that modulate the myogenic spontaneous pacemaker activity in the sinoatrial node (SAN) of the mammalian heart have been investigated extensively. There is agreement that several (3 or 4) different transmembrane ionic current changes (referred to as the voltage clock) are involved; and that the resulting net current interacts with direct and indirect effects of changes in intracellular Ca²⁺ (the calcium clock). However, significant uncertainties, and important knowledge gaps, remain concerning the functional roles in SAN spontaneous pacing of many of the individual ion channel- or exchanger-mediated transmembrane current changes. We report results from patch clamp studies and mathematical modeling of the hyperpolarization-activated current, I_f, in the generation/modulation of the diastolic depolarization, or pacemaker potential, produced by individual myocytes that were enzymatically isolated from the adult mouse sinoatrial node (SAN). Amphotericin-mediated patch microelectrode recordings at 35 °C were made under control conditions and in the presence of 5 or 10 nM isoproterenol (ISO). These sets of results were complemented and integrated with mathematical modeling of the current changes that take place in the range of membrane potentials (−70 to −50 mV), which corresponds to the ‘pacemaker depolarization’ in the adult mouse SAN. Our results reveal a very small, but functionally important, approximately steady-state or time-independent current generated by residual activation of I_f channels that are expressed in these pacemaker myocytes. Recordings of the pacemaker depolarization and action potential, combined with measurements of changes in I_f, and the well-known increases in the L-type Ca²⁺ current, I_CaL, demonstrated that I_CaL activation, is essential for myogenic pacing. Moreover, after being enhanced (approximately 3-fold) by 5 or 10 nM ISO, I_CaL contributes significantly to the positive chronotropic effect. Our mathematical model has been developed in an attempt to better understand the underlying mechanisms for the pacemaker depolarization and action potential in adult mouse SAN myocytes. After being updated with our new experimental data describing I_f, our simulations reveal a novel functional component of I_f in adult mouse SAN. Computational work carried out with this model also confirms that in the presence of ISO the residual activation of I_f and opening of I_CaL channels combine to generate a net current change during the slow diastolic depolarization phase that is essential for the observed accelerated pacemaking rate of these SAN myocytes.

Gating movements and ion permeation in HCN4 pacemaker channels

The HCN1-4 channel family is responsible for the hyperpolarization-activated cation current If/Ih that controls automaticity in cardiac and neuronal pacemaker cells. We present cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of HCN4 in the presence or absence of bound cAMP, displaying the pore domain in closed and open conformations. Analysis of cAMP-bound and -unbound structures sheds light on how ligand-induced transitions in the channel cytosolic portion mediate the effect of cAMP on channel gating and highlights the regulatory role of a Mg2+ coordination site formed between the C-linker and the S4-S5 linker. Comparison of open/closed pore states shows that the cytosolic gate opens through concerted movements of the S5 and S6 transmembrane helices. Furthermore, in combination with molecular dynamics analyses, the open pore structures provide insights into the mechanisms of K+/Na+ permeation. Our results contribute mechanistic understanding on HCN channel gating, cyclic nucleotide-dependent modulation, and ion permeation.

Bidirectional flow of the funny current (If) during the pacemaking cycle in murine sinoatrial node myocytes

Sinoatrial node myocytes (SAMs) act as cardiac pacemaker cells by firing spontaneous action potentials (APs) that initiate each heartbeat. The funny current (If) is critical for the generation of these spontaneous APs; however, its precise role during the pacemaking cycle remains unresolved. Here, we used the AP-clamp technique to quantify If during the cardiac cycle in mouse SAMs. We found that If is persistently active throughout the sinoatrial AP, with surprisingly little voltage-dependent gating. As a consequence, it carries both inward and outward current around its reversal potential of -30 mV. Despite operating at only 2 to 5% of its maximal conductance, If carries a substantial fraction of both depolarizing and repolarizing net charge movement during the firing cycle. We also show that β-adrenergic receptor stimulation increases the percentage of net depolarizing charge moved by If, consistent with a contribution of If to the fight-or-flight increase in heart rate. These properties were confirmed by heterologously expressed HCN4 channels and by mathematical models of If Modeling further suggested that the slow rates of activation and deactivation of the HCN4 isoform underlie the persistent activity of If during the sinoatrial AP. These results establish a new conceptual framework for the role of If in pacemaking, in which it operates at a very small fraction of maximal activation but nevertheless drives membrane potential oscillations in SAMs by providing substantial driving force in both inward and outward directions.

Regulation of sinus node pacemaking and atrioventricular node conduction by HCN channels in health and disease

The funny current, I_f, was first recorded in the heart 40 or more years ago by Dario DiFrancesco and others. Since then, we have learnt that I_f plays an important role in pacemaking in the sinus node, the innate pacemaker of the heart, and more recently evidence has accumulated to show that I_f may play an important role in action potential conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. Evidence has also accumulated to show that regulation of the transcription and translation of the underlying Hcn genes plays an important role in the regulation of sinus node pacemaking and AV node conduction under normal physiological conditions - in athletes, during the circadian rhythm, in pregnancy, and during postnatal development - as well as pathological states - ageing, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, diabetes and atrial fibrillation. There may be yet more pathological conditions involving changes in the expression of the Hcn genes. Here, we review the role of I_f and the underlying HCN channels in physiological and pathological changes of the sinus and AV nodes and we begin to explore the signalling pathways (microRNAs, transcription factors, GIRK4, the autonomic nervous system and inflammation) involved in this regulation. This review is dedicated to Dario DiFrancesco on his retirement.

Photodynamic Modification of Native HCN Channels Expressed in Thalamocortical Neurons

The photodynamic process requires three elements: light, oxygen, and photosensitizer, and involves the formation of singlet oxygen, the molecular oxygen in excited electronic states. Previously, we reported that heterologously expressed hyperpolarization-activated cAMP-gated (HCN) channels in excised membrane patches are sensitive to photodynamic modification (PDM). Here we extend this study to native HCN channels expressed in thalamocortical (TC) neurons in the ventrobasal (VB) complex of the thalamus and dopaminergic neurons (DA) of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). To do this, we introduced the photosensitizer FITC-cAMP into TCs or DAs of rodent brain slices via a whole-cell patch-clamp recording pipette. After illumination with blue light pulses, we observed an increase in the voltage-insensitive, instantaneous I_inst component, accompanied by a long-lasting decrease in the hyperpolarization-dependent I_h component. Both I_h and the increased I_inst after PDM could be blocked by the HCN blockers Cs⁺ and ZD7288. When FITC and cAMP were dissociated and loaded into neurons as two separate chemicals, light application did not result in any long-lasting changes of the HCN currents. In contrast, light pulses applied to HCN2-/- neurons loaded with FITC-cAMP generated a much greater reduction in the I_inst component compared to that of WT neurons. Next, we investigated the impact of the long-lasting increases in I_inst after PDM on the cellular physiology of VB neurons. Consistent with an upregulation of HCN channel function, PDM elicited a depolarization of the resting membrane potential (RMP). Importantly, Trolox-C, an effective quencher for singlet oxygen, could block the PDM-dependent increase in I_inst and depolarization of the RMP. We propose that PDM of native HCN channels under physiological conditions may provide a photodynamic approach to alleviate HCN channelopathy in certain pathological conditions.

Singlet oxygen modification abolishes voltage-dependent inactivation of the sea urchin spHCN channel

Photochemically or metabolically generated singlet oxygen (¹O₂) reacts broadly with macromolecules in the cell. Because of its short lifetime and working distance, ¹O₂ holds potential as an effective and precise nanoscale tool for basic research and clinical practice. Here we investigate the modification of the spHCN channel that results from photochemically and chemically generated ¹O₂ The spHCN channel shows strong voltage-dependent inactivation in the absence of cAMP. In the presence of photosensitizers, short laser pulses transform the gating properties of spHCN by abolishing inactivation and increasing the macroscopic current amplitude. Alanine replacement of a histidine residue near the activation gate within the channel's pore abolishes key modification effects. Application of a variety of chemicals including ¹O₂ scavengers and ¹O₂ generators supports the involvement of ¹O₂ and excludes other reactive oxygen species. This study provides new understanding about the photodynamic modification of ion channels by ¹O₂ at the molecular level.

Kir2.1 channels set two levels of resting membrane potential with inward rectification

Strong inward rectifier K⁺ channels (Kir2.1) mediate background K⁺ currents primarily responsible for maintenance of resting membrane potential. Multiple types of cells exhibit two levels of resting membrane potential. Kir2.1 and K2P1 currents counterbalance, partially accounting for the phenomenon of human cardiomyocytes in subphysiological extracellular K⁺ concentrations or pathological hypokalemic conditions. The mechanism of how Kir2.1 channels contribute to the two levels of resting membrane potential in different types of cells is not well understood. Here we test the hypothesis that Kir2.1 channels set two levels of resting membrane potential with inward rectification. Under hypokalemic conditions, Kir2.1 currents counterbalance HCN2 or HCN4 cation currents in CHO cells that heterologously express both channels, generating N-shaped current-voltage relationships that cross the voltage axis three times and reconstituting two levels of resting membrane potential. Blockade of HCN channels eliminated the phenomenon in K2P1-deficient Kir2.1-expressing human cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells or CHO cells expressing both Kir2.1 and HCN2 channels. Weakly inward rectifier Kir4.1 or inward rectification-deficient Kir2.1•E224G mutant channels do not set such two levels of resting membrane potential when co-expressed with HCN2 channels in CHO cells or when overexpressed in human cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. These findings demonstrate a common mechanism that Kir2.1 channels set two levels of resting membrane potential with inward rectification by balancing inward currents through different cation channels such as hyperpolarization-activated HCN channels or hypokalemia-induced K2P1 leak channels.

The Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels: from Biophysics to Pharmacology of a Unique Family of Ion Channels

Hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are important members of the voltage-gated pore loop channels family. They show unique features: they open at hyperpolarizing potential, carry a mixed Na/K current, and are regulated by cyclic nucleotides. Four different isoforms have been cloned (HCN1-4) that can assemble to form homo- or heterotetramers, characterized by different biophysical properties. These proteins are widely distributed throughout the body and involved in different physiologic processes, the most important being the generation of spontaneous electrical activity in the heart and the regulation of synaptic transmission in the brain. Their role in heart rate, neuronal pacemaking, dendritic integration, learning and memory, and visual and pain perceptions has been extensively studied; these channels have been found also in some peripheral tissues, where their functions still need to be fully elucidated. Genetic defects and altered expression of HCN channels are linked to several pathologies, which makes these proteins attractive targets for translational research; at the moment only one drug (ivabradine), which specifically blocks the hyperpolarization-activated current, is clinically available. This review discusses current knowledge about HCN channels, starting from their biophysical properties, origin, and developmental features, to (patho)physiologic role in different tissues and pharmacological modulation, ending with their present and future relevance as drug targets.

Reduced Hyperpolarization-Activated Current Contributes to Enhanced Intrinsic Excitability in Cultured Hippocampal Neurons from PrP(-/-) Mice

Genetic ablation of cellular prion protein (PrP^C) has been linked to increased neuronal excitability and synaptic activity in the hippocampus. We have previously shown that synaptic activity in hippocampi of PrP-null mice is increased due to enhanced N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function. Here, we focused on the effect of PRNP gene knock-out (KO) on intrinsic neuronal excitability, and in particular, the underlying ionic mechanism in hippocampal neurons cultured from P0 mouse pups. We found that the absence of PrP^C profoundly affected the firing properties of cultured hippocampal neurons in the presence of synaptic blockers. The membrane impedance was greater in PrP-null neurons, and this difference was abolished by the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel blocker ZD7288 (100 μM). HCN channel activity appeared to be functionally regulated by PrP^C. The amplitude of voltage sag, a characteristic of activating HCN channel current (I_h), was decreased in null mice. Moreover, I_h peak current was reduced, along with a hyperpolarizing shift in activation gating and slower kinetics. However, neither HCN1 nor HCN2 formed a biochemical complex with PrP^C. These results suggest that the absence of PrP downregulates the activity of HCN channels through activation of a cell signaling pathway rather than through direct interactions. This in turn contributes to an increase in membrane impedance to potentiate neuronal excitability.

Stress Impairs Prefrontal Cortical Function via D1 Dopamine Receptor Interactions With Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia are worsened by stress, and working memory deficits are often a central feature of illness. Working memory is mediated by the persistent firing of prefrontal cortical (PFC) pyramidal neurons. Stress impairs working memory via high levels of dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) activation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling, which reduces PFC neuronal firing. The current study examined whether D1R-cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling reduces neuronal firing and impairs working memory by increasing the open state of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) cation channels, which are concentrated on dendritic spines where PFC pyramidal neurons interconnect.

METHODS

A variety of methods were employed to test this hypothesis: dual immunoelectron microscopy localized D1R and HCN channels, in vitro recordings tested for D1R actions on HCN channel current, while recordings in monkeys performing a working memory task tested for D1R-HCN channel interactions in vivo. Finally, cognitive assessments following intra-PFC infusions of drugs examined D1R-HCN channel interactions on working memory performance.

RESULTS

Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed D1R colocalization with HCN channels near excitatory-like synapses on dendritic spines in primate PFC. Mouse PFC slice recordings demonstrated that D1R stimulation increased HCN channel current, while local HCN channel blockade in primate PFC protected task-related firing from D1R-mediated suppression. D1R stimulation in rat or monkey PFC impaired working memory performance, while HCN channel blockade in PFC prevented this impairment in rats exposed to either stress or D1R stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that D1R stimulation or stress weakens PFC function via opening of HCN channels at network synapses.

Parvalbumin+ Neurons and Npas1+ Neurons Are Distinct Neuron Classes in the Mouse External Globus Pallidus

Compelling evidence suggests that pathological activity of the external globus pallidus (GPe), a nucleus in the basal ganglia, contributes to the motor symptoms of a variety of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Recent studies have challenged the idea that the GPe comprises a single, homogenous population of neurons that serves as a simple relay in the indirect pathway. However, we still lack a full understanding of the diversity of the neurons that make up the GPe. Specifically, a more precise classification scheme is needed to better describe the fundamental biology and function of different GPe neuron classes. To this end, we generated a novel multicistronic BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) transgenic mouse line under the regulatory elements of the Npas1 gene. Using a combinatorial transgenic and immunohistochemical approach, we discovered that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons in the GPe represent two nonoverlapping cell classes, amounting to 55% and 27% of the total GPe neuron population, respectively. These two genetically identified cell classes projected primarily to the subthalamic nucleus and to the striatum, respectively. Additionally, parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons were distinct in their autonomous and driven firing characteristics, their expression of intrinsic ion conductances, and their responsiveness to chronic 6-hydroxydopamine lesion. In summary, our data argue that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons are two distinct functional classes of GPe neurons. This work revises our understanding of the GPe, and provides the foundation for future studies of its function and dysfunction.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Until recently, the heterogeneity of the constituent neurons within the external globus pallidus (GPe) was not fully appreciated. We addressed this knowledge gap by discovering two principal GPe neuron classes, which were identified by their nonoverlapping expression of the markers parvalbumin and Npas1. Our study provides evidence that parvalbumin and Npas1 neurons have different topologies within the basal ganglia.

Activation of Ih and TTX-sensitive sodium current at subthreshold voltages during CA1 pyramidal neuron firing

We used dynamic clamp and action potential clamp techniques to explore how currents carried by tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels and HCN channels (Ih) regulate the behavior of CA1 pyramidal neurons at resting and subthreshold voltages. Recording from rat CA1 pyramidal neurons in hippocampal slices, we found that the apparent input resistance and membrane time constant were strongly affected by both conductances, with Ih acting to decrease apparent input resistance and time constant and sodium current acting to increase both. We found that both Ih and sodium current were active during subthreshold summation of artificial excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) generated by dynamic clamp, with Ih dominating at less depolarized voltages and sodium current at more depolarized voltages. Subthreshold sodium current-which amplifies EPSPs-was most effectively recruited by rapid voltage changes, while Ih-which blunts EPSPs-was maximal for slow voltage changes. The combined effect is to selectively amplify rapid EPSPs. We did similar experiments in mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons, doing voltage-clamp experiments using experimental records of action potential firing of CA1 neurons previously recorded in awake, behaving animals as command voltages to quantify flow of Ih and sodium current at subthreshold voltages. Subthreshold sodium current was larger and subthreshold Ih was smaller in mouse neurons than in rat neurons. Overall, the results show opposing effects of subthreshold sodium current and Ih in regulating subthreshold behavior of CA1 neurons, with subthreshold sodium current prominent in both rat and mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons and additional regulation by Ih in rat neurons.

cAMP control of HCN2 channel Mg2+ block reveals loose coupling between the cyclic nucleotide-gating ring and the pore

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-regulated HCN channels underlie the Na⁺-K⁺ permeable I_H pacemaker current. As with other voltage-gated members of the 6-transmembrane K_V channel superfamily, opening of HCN channels involves dilation of a helical bundle formed by the intracellular ends of S6 albeit this is promoted by inward, not outward, displacement of S4. Direct agonist binding to a ring of cyclic nucleotide-binding sites, one of which lies immediately distal to each S6 helix, imparts cAMP sensitivity to HCN channel opening. At depolarized potentials, HCN channels are further modulated by intracellular Mg²⁺ which blocks the open channel pore and blunts the inhibitory effect of outward K⁺ flux. Here, we show that cAMP binding to the gating ring enhances not only channel opening but also the kinetics of Mg²⁺ block. A combination of experimental and simulation studies demonstrates that agonist acceleration of block is mediated via acceleration of the blocking reaction itself rather than as a secondary consequence of the cAMP enhancement of channel opening. These results suggest that the activation status of the gating ring and the open state of the pore are not coupled in an obligate manner (as required by the often invoked Monod-Wyman-Changeux allosteric model) but couple more loosely (as envisioned in a modular model of protein activation). Importantly, the emergence of second messenger sensitivity of open channel rectification suggests that loose coupling may have an unexpected consequence: it may endow these erstwhile “slow” channels with an ability to exert voltage and ligand-modulated control over cellular excitability on the fastest of physiologically relevant time scales.

State-dependent and site-directed photodynamic transformation of HCN2 channel by singlet oxygen

Singlet oxygen acts through a histidine residue to delay HCN channel deactivation and enhance voltage-insensitive current.

Singlet oxygen (¹O₂), which is generated through metabolic reactions and oxidizes numerous biological molecules, has been a useful tool in basic research and clinical practice. However, its role as a signaling factor, as well as a mechanistic understanding of the oxidation process, remains poorly understood. Here, we show that hyperpolarization-activated, cAMP-gated (HCN) channels–which conduct the hyperpolarization-activated current (I_h) and the voltage-insensitive instantaneous current (I_inst), and contribute to diverse physiological functions including learning and memory, cardiac pacemaking, and the sensation of pain–are subject to modification by ¹O₂. To increase the site specificity of ¹O₂ generation, we used fluorescein-conjugated cAMP, which specifically binds to HCN channels, or a chimeric channel in which an in-frame ¹O₂ generator (SOG) protein was fused to the HCN C terminus. Millisecond laser pulses reduced I_h current amplitude, slowed channel deactivation, and enhanced I_inst current. The modification of HCN channel function is a photodynamic process that involves ¹O₂, as supported by the dependence on dissolved oxygen in solutions, the inhibitory effect by a ¹O₂ scavenger, and the results with the HCN2-SOG fusion protein. Intriguingly, ¹O₂ modification of the HCN2 channel is state dependent: laser pulses applied to open channels mainly slow down deactivation and increase I_inst, whereas for the closed channels, ¹O₂ modification mainly reduced I_h amplitude. We identified a histidine residue (H434 in S6) near the activation gate in the pore critical for ¹O₂ modulation of HCN function. Alanine replacement of H434 abolished the delay in channel deactivation and the generation of I_inst induced by photodynamic modification. Our study provides new insights into the instantaneous current conducted by HCN channels, showing that modifications to the region close to the intracellular gate underlie the expression of I_inst, and establishes a well-defined model for studying ¹O₂ modifications at the molecular level.

Depressed pacemaker activity of sinoatrial node myocytes contributes to the age-dependent decline in maximum heart rate

An inexorable decline in maximum heart rate (mHR) progressively limits human aerobic capacity with advancing age. This decrease in mHR results from an age-dependent reduction in "intrinsic heart rate" (iHR), which is measured during autonomic blockade. The reduced iHR indicates, by definition, that pacemaker function of the sinoatrial node is compromised during aging. However, little is known about the properties of pacemaker myocytes in the aged sinoatrial node. Here, we show that depressed excitability of individual sinoatrial node myocytes (SAMs) contributes to reductions in heart rate with advancing age. We found that age-dependent declines in mHR and iHR in ECG recordings from mice were paralleled by declines in spontaneous action potential (AP) firing rates (FRs) in patch-clamp recordings from acutely isolated SAMs. The slower FR of aged SAMs resulted from changes in the AP waveform that were limited to hyperpolarization of the maximum diastolic potential and slowing of the early part of the diastolic depolarization. These AP waveform changes were associated with cellular hypertrophy, reduced current densities for L- and T-type Ca(2+) currents and the "funny current" (If), and a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of If. The age-dependent reduction in sinoatrial node function was not associated with changes in β-adrenergic responsiveness, which was preserved during aging for heart rate, SAM FR, L- and T-type Ca(2+) currents, and If. Our results indicate that depressed excitability of individual SAMs due to altered ion channel activity contributes to the decline in mHR, and thus aerobic capacity, during normal aging.

Hyperpolarisation-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels regulate the spontaneous firing rate of olfactory receptor neurons and affect glomerular formation in mice

Olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs), which undergo lifelong neurogenesis, have been studied extensively to understand how neurons form precise topographical networks. Neural projections from ORNs are principally guided by the genetic code, which directs projections from ORNs that express a specific odorant receptor to the corresponding glomerulus in the olfactory bulb. In addition, ORNs utilise spontaneous firing activity to establish and maintain the neural map. However, neither the process of generating this spontaneous activity nor its role as a guidance cue in the olfactory bulb is clearly understood. Utilising extracellular unit-recordings in mouse olfactory epithelium slices, we demonstrated that the hyperpolarisation-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels in the somas of ORNs depolarise their membranes and boost their spontaneous firing rates by sensing basal cAMP levels; the odorant-sensitive cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels in cilia do not. The basal cAMP levels were maintained via the standing activation of β-adrenergic receptors. Using a Tet-off system to over-express HCN4 channels resulted in the enhancement of spontaneous ORN activity and dramatically reduced both the size and number of glomeruli in the olfactory bulb. This phenotype was rescued by the administration of doxycycline. These findings suggest that cAMP plays different roles in cilia and soma and that basal cAMP levels in the soma are directly converted via HCN channels into a spontaneous firing frequency that acts as an intrinsic guidance cue for the formation of olfactory networks.

Asymmetric divergence in structure and function of HCN channel duplicates in Ciona intestinalis

Hyperpolarization-activated Cyclic Nucleotide (HCN) channels are voltage-gated cation channels and are critical for regulation of membrane potential in electrically active cells. To understand the evolution of these channels at the molecular level, we cloned and examined two of three HCN homologs of the urochordate Ciona intestinalis (ciHCNa and ciHCNb). ciHCNa is like mammalian HCNs in that it possesses similar electrical function and undergoes N-glycosylation of a sequon near the pore. ciHCNb lacks the pore-associated N-glycosylation sequon and is predictably not N-glycosylated, and it also has an unusual gating phenotype in which the channel's voltage-sensitive gate appears to close incompletely. Together with previous findings, the data support an evolutionary trajectory in which an HCN ancestor underwent lineage-specific duplication in Ciona, to yield one HCN with most features that are conserved with the mammalian HCNs and another HCN that has been uniquely altered.

Charge movement in gating-locked HCN channels reveals weak coupling of voltage sensors and gate

HCN (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated) pacemaker channels have an architecture similar to that of voltage-gated K(+) channels, but they open with the opposite voltage dependence. HCN channels use essentially the same positively charged voltage sensors and intracellular activation gates as K(+) channels, but apparently these two components are coupled differently. In this study, we examine the energetics of coupling between the voltage sensor and the pore by using cysteine mutant channels for which low concentrations of Cd(2+) ions freeze the open-closed gating machinery but still allow the sensors to move. We were able to lock mutant channels either into open or into closed states by the application of Cd(2+) and measure the effect on voltage sensor movement. Cd(2+) did not immobilize the gating charge, as expected for strict coupling, but rather it produced shifts in the voltage dependence of voltage sensor charge movement, consistent with its effect of confining transitions to either closed or open states. From the magnitude of the Cd(2+)-induced shifts, we estimate that each voltage sensor produces a roughly three- to sevenfold effect on the open-closed equilibrium, corresponding to a coupling energy of ∼1.3-2 kT per sensor. Such coupling is not only opposite in sign to the coupling in K(+) channels, but also much weaker.

A leucine zipper motif essential for gating of hyperpolarization-activated channels

BACKGROUND

It is poorly understood how hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (HCNs) function.

RESULTS

We have identified a leucine zipper in the S5 segment of HCNs, regulating hyperpolarization-activated and instantaneous current components.

CONCLUSION

The leucine zipper is essential for HCN channel gating.

SIGNIFICANCE

The identification and functional characterization of the leucine zipper is an important step toward the understanding of HCN channel function. Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are pacemakers in cardiac myocytes and neurons. Although their membrane topology closely resembles that of voltage-gated K(+) channels, the mechanism of their unique gating behavior in response to hyperpolarization is still poorly understood. We have identified a highly conserved leucine zipper motif in the S5 segment of HCN family members. In order to study the role of this motif for channel function, the leucine residues of the zipper were individually mutated to alanine, arginine, or glutamine residues. Leucine zipper mutants traffic to the plasma membrane, but the channels lose their sensitivity to open upon hyperpolarization. Thus, our data indicate that the leucine zipper is an important molecular determinant for hyperpolarization-activated channel gating. Residues of the leucine zipper interact with the adjacent S6 segment of the channel. This interaction is essential for voltage-dependent gating of the channel. The lower part of the leucine zipper, at the intracellular mouth of the channel, is important for stabilizing the closed state. Mutations at these sites increase current amplitudes or result in channels with deficient closing and increased min-P(o). Our data are further supported by homology models of the open and closed state of the HCN2 channel pore. Thus, we conclude that the leucine zipper of HCN channels is a major determinant for hyperpolarization-activated channel gating.

HCN1 and HCN2 proteins are expressed in cochlear hair cells: HCN1 can form a ternary complex with protocadherin 15 CD3 and F-actin-binding filamin A or can interact with HCN2

A unique coupling between HCN1 and stereociliary tip-link protein protocadherin 15 has been described for a teleost vestibular hair-cell model and mammalian organ of Corti (OC) (Ramakrishnan, N. A., Drescher, M. J., Barretto, R. L., Beisel, K. W., Hatfield, J. S., and Drescher, D. G. (2009) J. Biol. Chem. 284, 3227-3238). We now show that Ca(2+)-dependent interaction of the organ of Corti HCN1 and protocadherin 15 CD3 is mediated by amino-terminal sequence specific to HCN1 and is not replicated by analogous specific peptides for HCN2 or HCN4 nor by amino-terminal sequence conserved across HCN isoforms utilized in channel formation. Furthermore, the HCN1-specific peptide binds both phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate and phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate but not phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate. Singly isolated cochlear inner and outer hair cells express HCN1 transcript, and HCN1 and HCN2 protein is immunolocalized to hair-cell stereocilia by both z-stack confocal and pre-embedding EM immunogold microscopy, with stereociliary tip-link and subcuticular plate sites. Quantitative PCR indicates HCN1/HCN2/HCN3/HCN4 = 9:9:1:89 in OC of the wild-type mouse, with HCN4 protein primarily attributable to inner sulcus cells. A mutant form of HCN1 mRNA and protein is expressed in the OC of an HCN1 mutant, corresponding to a full-length sequence with the in-frame deletion of pore-S6 domains, predicted by construct. The mutant transcript of HCN1 is ∼9-fold elevated relative to wild-type levels, possibly representing molecular compensation, with unsubstantial changes in HCN2, HCN3, and HCN4. Immunoprecipitation protocols indicate alternate interactions of full-length proteins; HCN1 can interact with protocadherin 15 CD3 and F-actin-binding filamin A forming a complex that does not include HCN2, or HCN1 can interact with HCN2 forming a complex without protocadherin 15 CD3 but including F-actin-binding fascin-2.

Coupling of voltage-sensors to the channel pore: a comparative view

The activation of voltage-dependent ion channels is initiated by potential-induced conformational rearrangements in the voltage-sensor domains that propagates to the pore domain (PD) and finally opens the ion conduction pathway. In potassium channels voltage-sensors are covalently linked to the pore via S4-S5 linkers at the cytoplasmic site of the PD. Transformation of membrane electric energy into the mechanical work required for the opening or closing of the channel pore is achieved through an electromechanical coupling mechanism, which involves local interaction between residues in S4-S5 linker and pore-forming alpha helices. In this review we discuss present knowledge and open questions related to the electromechanical coupling mechanism in most intensively studied voltage-gated Shaker potassium channel and compare structure-functional aspects of coupling with those observed in distantly related ion channels. We focus particularly on the role of electromechanical coupling in modulation of the constitutive conductance of ion channels.

Properties and functional implications of I (h) in hippocampal area CA3 interneurons

The present study examines the biophysical properties and functional implications of I (h) in hippocampal area CA3 interneurons with somata in strata radiatum and lacunosum-moleculare. Characterization studies showed a small maximum h-conductance (2.6 ± 0.3 nS, n = 11), shallow voltage dependence with a hyperpolarized half-maximal activation (V (1/2) = -91 mV), and kinetics characterized by double-exponential functions. The functional consequences of I (h) were examined with regard to temporal summation and impedance measurements. For temporal summation experiments, 5-pulse mossy fiber input trains were activated. Blocking I (h) with 50 μM ZD7288 resulted in an increase in temporal summation, suggesting that I (h) supports sensitivity of response amplitude to relative input timing. Impedance was assessed by applying sinusoidal current commands. From impedance measurements, we found that I (h) did not confer theta-band resonance, but flattened the impedance-frequency relations instead. Double immunolabeling for hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated proteins and glutamate decarboxylase 67 suggests that all four subunits are present in GABAergic interneurons from the strata considered for electrophysiological studies. Finally, a model of I (h) was employed in computational analyses to confirm and elaborate upon the contributions of I (h) to impedance and temporal summation.

Population diversity and function of hyperpolarization-activated current in olfactory bulb mitral cells

Although neurons are known to exhibit a broad array of intrinsic properties that impact critically on the computations they perform, very few studies have quantified such biophysical diversity and its functional consequences. Using in vivo and in vitro whole-cell recordings here we show that mitral cells are extremely heterogeneous in their expression of a rebound depolarization (sag) at hyperpolarized potentials that is mediated by a ZD7288-sensitive current with properties typical of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channels. The variability in sag expression reflects a functionally diverse population of mitral cells. For example, those cells with large amplitude sag exhibit more membrane noise, a lower rheobase and fire action potentials more regularly than cells where sag is absent. Thus, cell-to-cell variability in sag potential amplitude reflects diversity in the integrative properties of mitral cells that ensures a broad dynamic range for odor representation across these principal neurons.

Tanshinone IIA selectively enhances hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channel instantaneous current

Tanshinone IIA, one of the main active components from the Chinese herb Danshen, is widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases in Asian countries, especially in China. To further elucidate its heart rate-reducing and anti-ischemic mechanisms, here we investigated the effects of tanshinone IIA on hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes using two-electrode voltage clamp techniques. When applied to the extracellular solution, 100 microM tanshinone IIA caused a slowing of activation and deactivation and an increase of minimum open probabilities (from 0.06 +/- 0.01 to 0.29 +/- 0.03, P<0.05) in HCN2 channels without shifting the voltage dependence of channel activation. Tanshinone IIA potently enhanced the amplitude of voltage-independent current (instantaneous current) of HCN2 at -90 mV in a concentration-dependent manner with an EC(50) of 107 microM. Similar but 2.3-fold less sensitivity to tanshinone IIA was observed in the HCN1 subtype. More significant effect on HCN2 and MiRP1 co-expression was observed. In conclusion, tanshinone IIA changed HCN channel gating by selectively enhancing the instantaneous current (one population of HCN channels), which resulted in the corresponding increment of minimum open probabilities, slowing channel activation and deactivation processes with little effect on the voltage-dependent current (another population of HCN channels).

Functional characterization of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels in rat pancreatic beta cells

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels regulate pacemaker activity in some cardiac cells and neurons. In the present study, we have identified the presence of HCN channels in pancreatic beta-cells. We then examined the functional characterization of these channels in beta-cells via modulating HCN channel activity genetically and pharmacologically. Voltage-clamp experiments showed that over-expression of HCN2 in rat beta-cells significantly increased HCN current (I(h)), whereas expression of dominant-negative HCN2 (HCN2-AYA) completely suppressed endogenous I(h). Compared to control beta-cells, over-expression of I(h) increased insulin secretion at 2.8 mmol/l glucose. However, suppression of I(h) did not affect insulin secretion at both 2.8 and 11.1 mmol/l glucose. Current-clamp measurements revealed that HCN2 over-expression significantly reduced beta-cell membrane input resistance (R(in)), and resulted in a less-hyperpolarizing membrane response to the currents injected into the cell. Conversely, dominant negative HCN2-AYA expression led to a substantial increase of R(in), which was associated with a more hyperpolarizing membrane response to the currents injected. Remarkably, under low extracellular potassium conditions (2.5 mmol/l K(+)), suppression of I(h) resulted in increased membrane hyperpolarization and decreased insulin secretion. We conclude that I(h) in beta-cells possess the potential to modulate beta-cell membrane potential and insulin secretion under hypokalemic conditions.

Alanine scanning of the S6 segment reveals a unique and cAMP-sensitive association between the pore and voltage-dependent opening in HCN channels

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channels resemble Shaker K+ channels in structure and function. In both, changes in membrane voltage produce directionally similar movement of positively charged residues in the voltage sensor to alter the pore structure at the intracellular side and gate ion flow. However, HCNs open when hyperpolarized, whereas Shaker opens when depolarized. Thus, electromechanical coupling between the voltage sensor and gate is opposite. A key determinant of this coupling is the intrinsic stability of the pore. In Shaker, an alanine/valine scan of residues across the pore, by single point mutation, showed that most mutations made the channel easier to open and steepened the response of the channel to changes in voltage. Because most mutations likely destabilize protein packing, the Shaker pore is most stable when closed, and the voltage sensor works to open it. In HCN channels, the pore energetics and vector of work by the voltage sensor are unknown. Accordingly, we performed a 22-residue alanine/valine scan of the distal pore of the HCN2 isoform and show that the effects of mutations on channel opening and on the steepness of the response of the channel to voltage are mixed and smaller than those in Shaker. These data imply that the stabilities of the open and closed pore are similar, the voltage sensor must apply force to close the pore, and the interactions between the pore and voltage sensor are weak. Moreover, cAMP binding to the channel heightens the effects of the mutations, indicating stronger interactions between the pore and voltage sensor, and tips the energetic balance toward a more stable open state.

In vitro characterization of HCN channel kinetics and frequency dependence in myocytes predicts biological pacemaker functionality

The pacemaker current, mediated by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels, contributes to the initiation and regulation of cardiac rhythm. Previous experiments creating HCN-based biological pacemakers in vivo found that an engineered HCN2/HCN1 chimeric channel (HCN212) resulted in significantly faster rates than HCN2, interrupted by 1-5 s pauses. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the differences in HCN212 and HCN2 in vivo functionality as biological pacemakers, we studied newborn rat ventricular myocytes over-expressing either HCN2 or HCN212 channels. The HCN2- and HCN212-over-expressing myocytes manifest similar voltage dependence, current density and sensitivity to saturating cAMP concentrations, but HCN212 has faster activation/deactivation kinetics. Compared with HCN2, myocytes expressing HCN212 exhibit a faster spontaneous rate and greater incidence of irregular rhythms (i.e. periods of rapid spontaneous rate followed by pauses). To explore these rhythm differences further, we imposed consecutive pacing and found that activation kinetics of the two channels are slower at faster pacing frequencies. As a result, time-dependent HCN current flowing during diastole decreases for both constructs during a train of stimuli at a rapid frequency, with the effect more pronounced for HCN2. In addition, the slower deactivation kinetics of HCN2 contributes to more pronounced instantaneous current at a slower frequency. As a result of the frequency dependence of both instantaneous and time-dependent current, HCN2 exhibits more robust negative feedback than HCN212, contributing to the maintenance of a stable pacing rhythm. These results illustrate the benefit of screening HCN constructs in spontaneously active myocyte cultures and may provide the basis for future optimization of HCN-based biological pacemakers.

Calcium-dependent binding of HCN1 channel protein to hair cell stereociliary tip link protein protocadherin 15 CD3

The cytoplasmic amino terminus of HCN1, the primary full-length HCN isoform expressed in trout saccular hair cells, was found by yeast two-hybrid protocols to bind the cytoplasmic carboxyl-terminal domain of a protocadherin 15a-like protein. HCN1 was immunolocalized to discrete sites on saccular hair cell stereocilia, consistent with gradated distribution expected for tip link sites of protocadherin 15a. HCN1 message was also detected in cDNA libraries of rat cochlear inner and outer hair cells, and HCN1 protein was immunolocalized to cochlear hair cell stereocilia. As predicted by the trout hair cell model, the amino terminus of rat organ of Corti HCN1 was found by yeast two-hybrid analysis to bind the carboxyl terminus of protocadherin 15 CD3, a tip link protein implicated in mechanosensory transduction. Specific binding between HCN1 and protocadherin 15 CD3 was confirmed with pull-down assays and surface plasmon resonance analysis, both predicting dependence on Ca(2+). In the presence of calcium chelators, binding between HCN1 and protocadherin 15 CD3 was characterized by a K(D) = 2.39 x 10(-7) m. Ca(2+) at 26.5-68.0 microm promoted binding, with K(D) = 5.26 x 10(-8) m (at 61 microm Ca(2+)). Binding by deletion mutants of protocadherin 15 CD3 pointed to amino acids 158-179 (GenBank accession number XP_238200), with homology to the comparable region in trout hair cell protocadherin 15a-like protein, as necessary for binding to HCN1. Amino terminus binding of HCN1 to HCN1, hypothesized to underlie HCN1 channel formation, was also found to be Ca(2+)-dependent, although the binding was skewed toward a lower effective maximum [Ca(2+)] than for the HCN1 interaction with protocadherin 15 CD3. Competition may therefore exist in vivo between the two binding sites for HCN1, with binding of HCN1 to protocadherin 15 CD3 favored between 26.5 and 68 microm Ca(2+). Taken together, the evidence supports a role for HCN1 in mechanosensory transduction of inner ear hair cells.

Intracellular Mg2+ is a voltage-dependent pore blocker of HCN channels

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are activated by membrane hyperpolarization that creates time-dependent, inward rectifying currents, gated by the movement of the intrinsic voltage sensor S4. However, inward rectification of the HCN currents is not only observed in the time-dependent HCN currents, but also in the instantaneous HCN tail currents. Inward rectification can also be seen in mutant HCN channels that have mainly time-independent currents (5). In the present study, we show that intracellular Mg(2+) functions as a voltage-dependent blocker of HCN channels, acting to reduce the outward currents. The affinity of HCN channels for Mg(2+) is in the physiological range, with Mg(2+) binding with an IC(50) of 0.53 mM in HCN2 channels and 0.82 mM in HCN1 channels at +50 mV. The effective electrical distance for the Mg(2+) binding site was found to be 0.19 for HCN1 channels, suggesting that the binding site is in the pore. Removing a cysteine in the selectivity filter of HCN1 channels reduced the affinity for Mg(2+), suggesting that this residue forms part of the binding site deep within the pore. Our results suggest that Mg(2+) acts as a voltage-dependent pore blocker and, therefore, reduces outward currents through HCN channels. The pore-blocking action of Mg(2+) may play an important physiological role, especially for the slowly gating HCN2 and HCN4 channels. Mg(2+) could potentially block outward hyperpolarizing HCN currents at the plateau of action potentials, thus preventing a premature termination of the action potential.

Ion binding in the open HCN pacemaker channel pore: fast mechanisms to shape "slow" channels

I_H pacemaker channels carry a mixed monovalent cation current that, under physiological ion gradients, reverses at ∼−34 mV, reflecting a 4:1 selectivity for K over Na. However, I_H channels display anomalous behavior with respect to permeant ions such that (a) open channels do not exhibit the outward rectification anticipated assuming independence; (b) gating and selectivity are sensitive to the identity and concentrations of externally presented permeant ions; (c) the channels' ability to carry an inward Na current requires the presence of external K even though K is a minor charge carrier at negative voltages. Here we show that open HCN channels (the hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide sensitive pore forming subunits of I_H) undergo a fast, voltage-dependent block by intracellular Mg in a manner that suggests the ion binds close to, or within, the selectivity filter. Eliminating internal divalent ion block reveals that (a) the K dependence of conduction is mediated via K occupancy of site(s) within the pore and that asymmetrical occupancy and/or coupling of these sites to flux further shapes ion flow, and (b) the kinetics of equilibration between K-vacant and K-occupied states of the pore (10–20 μs or faster) is close to the ion transit time when the pore is occupied by K alone (∼0.5–3 μs), a finding that indicates that either ion:ion repulsion involving Na is adequate to support flux (albeit at a rate below our detection threshold) and/or the pore undergoes rapid, permeant ion-sensitive equilibration between nonconducting and conducting configurations. Biophysically, further exploration of the Mg site and of interactions of Na and K within the pore will tell us much about the architecture and operation of this unusual pore. Physiologically, these results suggest ways in which “slow” pacemaker channels may contribute dynamically to the shaping of fast processes such as Na-K or Ca action potentials.

Cardiac pacemaker function of HCN4 channels in mice is confined to embryonic development and requires cyclic AMP

Important targets for cAMP signalling in the heart are hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels that underlie the depolarizing 'pacemaker' current, I(f). We studied the role of I(f) in mice, in which binding of cAMP to HCN4 channels was abolished by a single amino-acid exchange (R669Q). Homozygous HCN4(R669Q/R669Q) mice die during embryonic development. Prior to E12, homozygous and heterozygous embryos display reduced heart rates and show no or attenuated responses to catecholaminergic stimulation. Adult heterozygous mice display normal heart rates at rest and during exercise. However, following beta-adrenergic stimulation, hearts exhibit pauses and sino-atrial node block. Our results demonstrate that in the embryo, HCN4 is a true cardiac pacemaker and elevation of HCN4 channel activity by cAMP is essential for viability. In adult mice, an important function of HCN4 channels is to prevent sinus pauses during and after stress while their role as a pacemaker of the murine heart is put into question. Most importantly, our results indicate that HCN4 channels can fulfil their physiological function only when cAMP is bound.

A hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated, (Ih-like) cationic current and HCN gene expression in renal inner medullary collecting duct cells

The cation conductancein primary cultures of rat renal inner medullary collecting duct was studied using perforated-patch and conventional whole cell clamp techniques. Hyperpolarizations beyond -60 mV induced a time-dependent inward nonselective cationic current (I(vti)) that resembles the well-known hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated I(h) and I(f) currents. I(vti) showed a half-maximal activation around -102 mV with a slope factor of 25 mV. It had a higher conductance (but, at its reversal potential, not a higher permeability) for K(+) than for Na(+) (gK(+)/gNa(+) = 1.5), was modulated by cAMP and blocked by external Cd(2+) (but not Cs(+) or ZD-7288), and potentiated by a high extracellular K(+) concentration. We explored the expression of the I(h) channel genes (HCN1 to -4) by RT-PCR. The presence of transcripts corresponding to the HCN1, -2, and -4 genes was observed in both the cultured cells and kidney inner medulla. Western blot analysis with HCN2 antibody showed labeling of approximately 90- and approximately 120-kDa proteins in samples from inner medulla and cultured cells. Immunocytochemical analysis of cell cultures and inner medulla showed the presence of HCN immunoreactivity partially colocalized with the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase at the basolateral membrane of collecting duct cells. This is the first evidence of an I(h)-like cationic current and HCN immunoreactivity in either kidney or any other nonexcitable mammalian cells.

Dendritic HCN2 channels constrain glutamate-driven excitability in reticular thalamic neurons

Hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide (HCN) gated channels conduct a current, I(h); how I(h) influences excitability and spike firing depends primarily on channel distribution in subcellular compartments. For example, dendritic expression of HCN1 normalizes somatic voltage responses and spike output in hippocampal and cortical neurons. We reported previously that HCN2 is predominantly expressed in dendritic spines in reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN) neurons, but the functional impact of such nonsomatic HCN2 expression remains unknown. We examined the role of HCN2 expression in regulating RTN excitability and GABAergic output from RTN to thalamocortical relay neurons using wild-type and HCN2 knock-out mice. Pharmacological blockade of I(h) significantly increased spike firing in RTN neurons and large spontaneous IPSC frequency in relay neurons; conversely, pharmacological enhancement of HCN channel function decreased spontaneous IPSC frequency. HCN2 deletion abolished I(h) in RTN neurons and significantly decreased sensitivity to 8-bromo-cAMP and lamotrigine. Recapitulating the effects of I(h) block, HCN2 deletion increased both temporal summation of EPSPs in RTN neurons as well as GABAergic output to postsynaptic relay neurons. The enhanced excitability of RTN neurons after I(h) block required activation of ionotropic glutamate receptors; consistent with this was the colocalization of HCN2 and glutamate receptor 4 subunit immunoreactivities in dendritic spines of RTN neurons. The results indicate that, in mouse RTN neurons, HCN2 is the primary functional isoform underlying I(h) and expression of HCN2 constrains excitatory synaptic integration.

Direct Inhibition of Cardiac Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide–Gated Pacemaker Channels by Clonidine

BACKGROUND

Inhibition of cardiac sympathetic tone represents an important strategy for treatment of cardiovascular disease, including arrhythmia, coronary heart disease, and chronic heart failure. Activation of presynaptic alpha2-adrenoceptors is the most widely accepted mechanism of action of the antisympathetic drug clonidine; however, other target proteins have been postulated to contribute to the in vivo actions of clonidine.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To test whether clonidine elicits pharmacological effects independent of alpha2-adrenoceptors, we have generated mice with a targeted deletion of all 3 alpha2-adrenoceptor subtypes (alpha2ABC-/-). Alpha2ABC-/- mice were completely unresponsive to the analgesic and hypnotic effects of clonidine; however, clonidine significantly lowered heart rate in alpha2ABC-/- mice by up to 150 bpm. Clonidine-induced bradycardia in conscious alpha2ABC-/- mice was 32.3% (10 microg/kg) and 26.6% (100 microg/kg) of the effect in wild-type mice. A similar bradycardic effect of clonidine was observed in isolated spontaneously beating right atria from alpha2ABC-knockout and wild-type mice. Clonidine inhibited the native pacemaker current (I(f)) in isolated sinoatrial node pacemaker cells and the I(f)-generating hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) 2 and HCN4 channels in transfected HEK293 cells. As a consequence of blocking I(f), clonidine reduced the slope of the diastolic depolarization and the frequency of pacemaker potentials in sinoatrial node cells from wild-type and alpha2ABC-knockout mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct inhibition of cardiac HCN pacemaker channels contributes to the bradycardic effects of clonidine gene-targeted mice in vivo, and thus, clonidine-like drugs represent novel structures for future HCN channel inhibitors.

Tryptophan-scanning mutagenesis in the S1 domain of mammalian HCN channel reveals residues critical for voltage-gated activation

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are essential regulators in rhythmic activity, membrane excitability and synaptic transmission. There are four subtypes in mammals (HCN1-4); HCN4 has the slowest activation kinetics and HCN1 the fastest. Although voltage gating originates with the voltage-dependent motion of the S4 segment, the different activation kinetics between HCN1 and HCN4 are generated mainly by S1 and the S1-S2 loop. In this study, we investigate the structural basis of the ability of S1 to affect activation kinetics by replacing each individual S1 residue in HCN1 with a tryptophan (Trp) residue, a Trp perturbation scan. Robust currents were generated in 11 out of 19 Trp mutants. Hyperpolarization-activated currents were not detected in four mutants, and two other mutants generated only small currents. Presence or absence of current reflected the predicted alpha-helical structure of the S1 transmembrane segment. Tryptophan replacements of residues responsible for the different kinetics between HCN1 and HCN4 made the activation kinetics slower than the wild-type HCN1. Tryptophan mutations introduced in the middle of S1 (L139W and V143W) prevented normal channel closure. Furthermore, a negatively charged residue at position 139 (L139D) induced a positive voltage shift of activation by 125 mV. Thus, L139 and V143 probably face a mobile part of the S4 voltage sensor and may interact with it. These results suggest that the secondary structure of S1 is alpha-helical and profoundly affects the motion of the voltage sensor.

Dual stretch responses of mHCN2 pacemaker channels: accelerated activation, accelerated deactivation

Mechanoelectric feedback in heart and smooth muscle is thought to depend on diverse channels that afford myocytes a mechanosensitive cation conductance. Voltage-gated channels (e.g., Kv1) are stretch sensitive, but the only voltage-gated channels that are cation permeant, the pacemaker or HCN (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated) channels, have not been tested. To assess if HCN channels could contribute to a mechanosensitive cation conductance, we recorded I(HCN) in cell-attached oocyte patches before, during, and after stretch for a range of voltage protocols. I(mHCN2) has voltage-dependent and instantaneous components; only the former was stretch sensitive. Stretch reversibly accelerated hyperpolarization-induced I(mHCN2) activation (likewise for I(spHCN)) and depolarization-induced deactivation. HCN channels (like Kv1 channels) undergo mode-switch transitions that render their activation midpoints voltage history dependent. The result, as seen from sawtooth clamp, is a pronounced hysteresis. During sawtooth clamp, stretch increased current magnitudes and altered the hysteresis pattern consistent with stretch-accelerated activation and deactivation. I(mHCN2) responses to step protocols indicated that at least two transitions were mechanosensitive: an unspecified rate-limiting transition along the hyperpolarization-driven path, mode I(closed)-->mode II(open), and depolarization-induced deactivation (from mode I(open) and/or from mode II(open)). How might this affect cardiac rhythmicity? Since hysteresis patterns and "on" and "off" I(HCN) responses all changed with stretch, predictions are difficult. For an empirical overview, we therefore clamped patches to cyclic action potential waveforms. During the diastolic potential of sinoatrial node cell and Purkinje fiber waveforms, net stretch effects were frequency dependent. Stretch-inhibited (SI) I(mHCN2) dominated at low frequencies and stretch-augmented (SA) I(mHCN2) was progressively more important as frequency increased. HCN channels might therefore contribute to either SI or SA cation conductances that in turn contribute to stretch arrhythmias and other mechanoelectric feedback phenomena.

Hyperpolarization-activated currents are differentially expressed in mice brainstem auditory nuclei

The hyperpolarization-activated cation current (I(h)) may influence precise auditory processing by modulating resting membrane potential and cell excitability. We used electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry to investigate the properties of I(h) in three auditory brainstem nuclei in mice: the anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AVCN), the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) and the lateral superior olive (LSO). I(h) amplitude varied considerably between these cell types, with the order of magnitude LSO > AVCN > MNTB. Kinetically, I(h) is faster in LSO neurons, and more active at rest, compared with AVCN and MNTB cells. The half-activation voltage is -10 mV more hyperpolarized for AVCN and MNTB cells compared with LSO neurons. HCN1 immunoreactivity strongly labelled AVCN and LSO neurons, while HCN2 staining was more diffuse in all nuclei. The HCN4 subunit displayed robust membrane staining in AVCN and MNTB cells but weak labelling of the LSO. We used a dynamic clamp, after blocking I(h), to reinsert I(h) to the different cell types. Our results indicate that the native I(h) for each cell type influences the resting membrane potential and can delay the generation of action potentials in response to injected current. Native I(h) increases rebound depolarizations following hyperpolarizations in all cell types, and increases the likelihood of rebound action potentials (particularly in multiple-firing LSO neurons). This systematic comparison shows that I(h) characteristics vary considerably between different brainstem nuclei, and that these differences significantly affect the response properties of cells within these nuclei.

Reversal of HCN channel voltage dependence via bridging of the S4-S5 linker and Post-S6

Voltage-gated ion channels possess charged domains that move in response to changes in transmembrane voltage. How this movement is transduced into gating of the channel pore is largely unknown. Here we show directly that two functionally important regions of the spHCN1 pacemaker channel, the S4–S5 linker and the C-linker, come into close proximity during gating. Cross-linking these regions with high-affinity metal bridges or disulfide bridges dramatically alters channel gating in the absence of cAMP; after modification the polarity of voltage dependence is reversed. Instead of being closed at positive voltage and activating with hyperpolarization, modified channels are closed at negative voltage and activate with depolarization. Mechanistically, this reversal of voltage dependence occurs as a result of selectively eliminating channel deactivation, while retaining an existing inactivation process. Bridging also alters channel activation by cAMP, showing that interaction of these two regions can also affect the efficacy of physiological ligands.

The enhancement of HCN channel instantaneous current facilitated by slow deactivation is regulated by intracellular chloride concentration

The hyperpolarization-activated cation current I (f) plays a key role in the modulation of rhythmic activity in cardiac pacemaker cells and spontaneously firing neurons. I (f) is generated by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (HCN1-HCN4) and comprises two components: the fast instantaneous current (I (INS)) and the slowly developing steady-state current (I (SS)). We found that in I (f) traces evoked by consecutive hyperpolarization, the I (INS) amplitude of the second trace was up to 50% larger than the first. I (SS) was identical. This pre-hyperpolarization mediated enhancement of I (INS) was maximal in channels displaying slow kinetics (sinoatrial I (f), HCN3, and HCN4), while it was almost negligible for fast channels (HCN1 and HCN2). The enhancement quantitatively correlated with the frequency of hyperpolarization. Analysis of HCN4 currents suggested that enhancement was facilitated by incomplete deactivation, confirmed by HCN2-HCN4 chimeric studies. It is important to note that intracellular Cl(-) was found to be a cellular suppressor of I (INS) enhancement. Cl(-) inhibited the enhancement with an IC(50) around 25 mM and Hill coefficients between 2 and 6. Cl(-) shifted V (0.5) by +7 mV when [Cl(-)](i) was increased from 11 to 141 mM. In conclusion, I (INS) represents a quantitatively important component of I (f) at low Cl(-) (as found in most cell types). Moreover, an increase in cellular Cl(-) will suppress enhancement of I (INS) and, hence, potentially affect the electrical properties of cells.

Hyperpolarization-activated cation channels in fast-spiking interneurons of rat hippocampus

Hyperpolarization-activated channels (Ih or HCN channels) are widely expressed in principal neurons in the central nervous system. However, Ih in inhibitory GABAergic interneurons is less well characterized. We examined the functional properties of Ih in fast-spiking basket cells (BCs) of the dentate gyrus, using hippocampal slices from 17- to 21-day-old rats. Bath application of the Ih channel blocker ZD 7288 at a concentration of 30 microm induced a hyperpolarization of 5.7 +/- 1.5 mV, an increase in input resistance and a correlated increase in apparent membrane time constant. ZD 7288 blocked a hyperpolarization-activated current in a concentration-dependent manner (IC50, 1.4 microm). The effects of ZD 7288 were mimicked by external Cs+. The reversal potential of Ih was -27.4 mV, corresponding to a Na+ to K+ permeability ratio (PNa/PK) of 0.36. The midpoint potential of the activation curve of Ih was -83.9 mV, and the activation time constant at -120 mV was 190 ms. Single-cell expression analysis using reverse transcription followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that BCs coexpress HCN1 and HCN2 subunit mRNA, suggesting the formation of heteromeric HCN1/2 channels. ZD 7288 increased the current threshold for evoking antidromic action potentials by extracellular stimulation, consistent with the expression of Ih in BC axons. Finally, ZD 7288 decreased the frequency of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) in hippocampal granule cells, the main target cells of BCs, to 70 +/- 4% of the control value. In contrast, the amplitude of mIPSCs was unchanged, consistent with the presence of Ih in inhibitory terminals. In conclusion, our results suggest that Ih channels are expressed in the somatodendritic region, axon and presynaptic elements of fast-spiking BCs in the hippocampus.