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Rozas-Villanueva FM, Orellana VP, Alarcón R, Maripillan J, Martinez AD, Alfaro IE, Retamal MA. Cx40 Levels Regulate Hypoxia-Induced Changes in the Migration, Proliferation, and Formation of Gap Junction Plaques in an Extravillous Trophoblast Cell Model. Cells 2024; 13:1150. [PMID: 38995001 PMCID: PMC11240472 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131150] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) form stratified columns at the placenta-uterus interface. In the closest part to fetal structures, EVTs have a proliferative phenotype, whereas in the closest part to maternal structures, they present a migratory phenotype. During the placentation process, Connexin 40 (Cx40) participates in both the proliferation and migration of EVTs, which occurs under hypoxia. However, a possible interaction between hypoxia and Cx40 has not yet been established. METHODS We developed two cellular models, one with "low Cx40" (Jeg-3), which reflected the expression of this protein found in migratory EVTs, and one with "high Cx40" (Jeg-3/hCx40), which reflected the expression of this protein in proliferative cells. We analyzed the migration and proliferation of these cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions for 24 h. Jeg-3 cells under hypoxia increased their migratory capacity over their proliferative capacity. However, in Jeg-3/hCx40, the opposite effect was induced. On the other hand, hypoxia promoted gap junction (GJ) plaque formation between neighboring Jeg-3 cells. Similarly, the activation of a nitro oxide (NO)/cGMP/PKG-dependent pathway induced an increase in GJ-plaque formation in Jeg-3 cells. CONCLUSIONS The expression patterns of Cx40 play a crucial role in shaping the responses of EVTs to hypoxia, thereby influencing their migratory or proliferative phenotype. Simultaneously, hypoxia triggers an increase in Cx40 gap junction (GJ) plaque formation through a pathway dependent on NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda M Rozas-Villanueva
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7550000, Chile
| | - Viviana P Orellana
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7550000, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Alarcón
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7550000, Chile
| | - Jaime Maripillan
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile
| | - Agustin D Martinez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile
| | - Ivan E Alfaro
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7550000, Chile
| | - Mauricio A Retamal
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7550000, Chile
- Center for Membrane Protein Research, Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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2
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Lee HC, Oliveira NMM, Hastings C, Baillie-Benson P, Moverley AA, Lu HC, Zheng Y, Wilby EL, Weil TT, Page KM, Fu J, Moris N, Stern CD. Regulation of long-range BMP gradients and embryonic polarity by propagation of local calcium-firing activity. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1463. [PMID: 38368410 PMCID: PMC10874436 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45772-4] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Many amniote vertebrate species including humans can form identical twins from a single embryo, but this only occurs rarely. It has been suggested that the primitive-streak-forming embryonic region emits signals that inhibit streak formation elsewhere but the signals involved, how they are transmitted and how they act has not been elucidated. Here we show that short tracks of calcium firing activity propagate through extraembryonic tissue via gap junctions and prevent ectopic primitive streak formation in chick embryos. Cross-regulation of calcium activity and an inhibitor of primitive streak formation (Bone Morphogenetic Protein, BMP) via NF-κB and NFAT establishes a long-range BMP gradient spanning the embryo. This mechanism explains how embryos of widely different sizes can maintain positional information that determines embryo polarity. We provide evidence for similar mechanisms in two different human embryo models and in Drosophila, suggesting an ancient evolutionary origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyung Chul Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
- School of Biological Sciences and Technology, College of Natural Sciences, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Gwangju, 61186, Korea.
| | - Nidia M M Oliveira
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- College of Professional Services, Murdoch University, 90 South St, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Cato Hastings
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Adam A Moverley
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hui-Chun Lu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, Guy's Tower, London, SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Yi Zheng
- Departments of Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- BioInspired Syracuse Institute for Materials and Living Systems, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Elise L Wilby
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Timothy T Weil
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Karen M Page
- Department of Mathematics, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Jianping Fu
- Departments of Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Naomi Moris
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Claudio D Stern
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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3
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Zhao Y, Namei E, Yang B, Bao X, Sun W, Subudeng G, Cao G, Li H, Wang G. Cyclic AMP mediates ovine cumulus-oocyte gap junctional function via balancing connexin 43 expression and phosphorylation. Endocr Connect 2023; 12:e230337. [PMID: 37855365 PMCID: PMC10620458 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction channels in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) enable the transmission and communication of small molecular signals between adjacent cells, such as cAMP. However, the regulation of gap junction function (GJF) by cAMP and the underlying mechanisms involved are not fully clarified. This study investigated the effect of cAMP on connexin 43 (CX43) expression and GJF in ovine COCs using immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blotting, and GJF detection. The CX43 was only found in the cumulus cells (CCs) side of ovine COC. The intra-oocyte cAMP showed a significant increase at 30 min, while the intra-CC cAMP exhibited two peaks at 10 min and 1 h during in vitro maturation (IVM). Phosphorylated CX43 protein exhibited an immediate increase at 10 min, and CX43 protein displayed two peaks at 10 min and 1 h during IVM. The duration of pre-IVM exposure to forskolin and IBMX significantly enhanced phosphorylated and total CX43, as well as Gja1 and Creb genes, for 10 min; these effects were counteracted by Rp-cAMP. Both pre-IVM with forskolin and IBMX for 1 h and the GJF and CX43/p-CX43 ratio were elevated. The closure of gap junction channels caused by phosphorylated CX43 to prevent cAMP outflow from oocytes in early IVM of COC. Cyclic AMP upregulated phosphorylated and total CX43 via genomic and non-genomic pathways, but its functional regulation was dependent on the balance of the two proteins. This study provides a new insight into the regulatory mechanism between cAMP and GJF, which would improve IVM in animal and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufen Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Erge Namei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Bingxue Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Xiangnan Bao
- Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology in Domestic Animal, Hohhot, PR China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Dairy Industry, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Wei Sun
- Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology in Domestic Animal, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Gerile Subudeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Guifang Cao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Haijun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Development Engineering of Autonomous Region Universities, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, PR China
| | - Gui Wang
- Animal Genetic Breeding and Reproduction Research Center, Hetao College, Bayannur, PR China
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4
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León-Fuentes IM, Salgado-Gil MG, Novoa MS, Retamal MA. Connexins in Cancer, the Possible Role of Connexin46 as a Cancer Stem Cell-Determining Protein. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1460. [PMID: 37892142 PMCID: PMC10604234 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a widespread and incurable disease caused by genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. Connexins (Cx) are transmembrane proteins that facilitate intercellular communication via hemichannels and gap junction channels. Among them, Cx46 is found mostly in the eye lens. However, in pathological conditions, Cx46 has been observed in various types of cancers, such as glioblastoma, melanoma, and breast cancer. It has been demonstrated that elevated Cx46 levels in breast cancer contribute to cellular resistance to hypoxia, and it is an enhancer of cancer aggressiveness supporting a pro-tumoral role. Accordingly, Cx46 is associated with an increase in cancer stem cell phenotype. These cells display radio- and chemoresistance, high proliferative abilities, self-renewal, and differentiation capacities. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge of the relationship between Cx46, its role in forming hemichannels and gap junctions, and its connection with cancer and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mauricio A. Retamal
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, República de Honduras 12740, Las Condes, Santiago 7610496, Chile; (I.M.L.-F.); (M.G.S.-G.); (M.S.N.)
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5
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Márquez M, Muñoz M, Córdova A, Puebla M, Figueroa XF. Connexin 40-Mediated Regulation of Systemic Circulation and Arterial Blood Pressure. J Vasc Res 2023; 60:87-100. [PMID: 37331352 DOI: 10.1159/000531035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular system is a complex network in which different cell types and vascular segments must work in concert to regulate blood flow distribution and arterial blood pressure. Although paracrine/autocrine signaling is involved in the regulation of vasomotor tone, direct intercellular communication via gap junctions plays a central role in the control and coordination of vascular function in the microvascular network. Gap junctions are made up by connexin (Cx) proteins, and among the four Cxs expressed in the cardiovascular system (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45), Cx40 has emerged as a critical signaling pathway in the vessel wall. This Cx is predominantly found in the endothelium, but it is involved in the development of the cardiovascular system and in the coordination of endothelial and smooth muscle cell function along the length of the vessels. In addition, Cx40 participates in the control of vasomotor tone through the transmission of electrical signals from the endothelium to the underlying smooth muscle and in the regulation of arterial blood pressure by renin-angiotensin system in afferent arterioles. In this review, we discuss the participation of Cx40-formed channels in the development of cardiovascular system, control and coordination of vascular function, and regulation of arterial blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Márquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexandra Córdova
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariela Puebla
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Xavier F Figueroa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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6
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Dunn P, Annamdevula NS, Leavesley SJ, Rich TC, Phan AV. A two-dimensional finite element model of intercellular cAMP signaling through gap junction channels. J Biomech 2023; 152:111588. [PMID: 37094384 PMCID: PMC10173664 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111588] [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: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
While cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is typically considered an intracellular signal, it has been shown to spread between adjacent cells through connexin-based gap junction channels, promoting gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). Gap junction-mediated signaling is critical for the coordinated function of many tissues, and have been linked with cardiovascular disease, neurogenerative disease, and cancers. In particular, it plays a complex role in tumor suppression or promotion. This work introduces a two-dimensional finite element model that can describe intercellular cAMP signaling in the presence of gap junctions on membrane interfaces. The model was utilized to simulate cAMP transfer through one and two gap junction channels on the interface of a cluster of two pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells. The simulation results were found to generally agree with what has been observed in the literature in terms of GJIC. The research outcomes suggest that the proposed model can be employed to evaluate the permeability properties of a gap junction channel if its cAMP volumetric flow rate can be experimentally measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Dunn
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - N S Annamdevula
- Center for Lung Biology & Department of Pharmacology University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - S J Leavesley
- Center for Lung Biology & Department of Pharmacology University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - T C Rich
- Center for Lung Biology & Department of Pharmacology University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - A-V Phan
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
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7
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Understanding the Role of ATP Release through Connexins Hemichannels during Neurulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032159. [PMID: 36768481 PMCID: PMC9916920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurulation is a crucial process in the formation of the central nervous system (CNS), which begins with the folding and fusion of the neural plate, leading to the generation of the neural tube and subsequent development of the brain and spinal cord. Environmental and genetic factors that interfere with the neurulation process promote neural tube defects (NTDs). Connexins (Cxs) are transmembrane proteins that form gap junctions (GJs) and hemichannels (HCs) in vertebrates, allowing cell-cell (GJ) or paracrine (HCs) communication through the release of ATP, glutamate, and NAD+; regulating processes such as cell migration and synaptic transmission. Changes in the state of phosphorylation and/or the intracellular redox potential activate the opening of HCs in different cell types. Cxs such as Cx43 and Cx32 have been associated with proliferation and migration at different stages of CNS development. Here, using molecular and cellular biology techniques (permeability), we demonstrate the expression and functionality of HCs-Cxs, including Cx46 and Cx32, which are associated with the release of ATP during the neurulation process in Xenopus laevis. Furthermore, applications of FGF2 and/or changes in intracellular redox potentials (DTT), well known HCs-Cxs modulators, transiently regulated the ATP release in our model. Importantly, the blockade of HCs-Cxs by carbenoxolone (CBX) and enoxolone (ENX) reduced ATP release with a concomitant formation of NTDs. We propose two possible and highly conserved binding sites (N and E) in Cx46 that may mediate the pharmacological effect of CBX and ENX on the formation of NTDs. In summary, our results highlight the importance of ATP release mediated by HCs-Cxs during neurulation.
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8
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Chen P, Wu W, Zhang J, Chen J, Li Y, Sun L, Hou S, Yang J. Pathological mechanisms of connexin26-related hearing loss: Potassium recycling, ATP-calcium signaling, or energy supply? Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:976388. [PMID: 36187349 PMCID: PMC9520402 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.976388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary deafness is one of the most common human birth defects. GJB2 gene mutation is the most genetic etiology. Gap junction protein 26 (connexin26, Cx26) encoded by the GJB2 gene, which is responsible for intercellular substance transfer and signal communication, plays a critical role in hearing acquisition and maintenance. The auditory character of different Connexin26 transgenic mice models can be classified into two types: profound congenital deafness and late-onset progressive hearing loss. Recent studies demonstrated that there are pathological changes including endocochlear potential reduction, active cochlear amplification impairment, cochlear developmental disorders, and so on, in connexin26 deficiency mice. Here, this review summarizes three main hypotheses to explain pathological mechanisms of connexin26-related hearing loss: potassium recycling disruption, adenosine-triphosphate-calcium signaling propagation disruption, and energy supply dysfunction. Elucidating pathological mechanisms underlying connexin26-related hearing loss can help develop new protective and therapeutic strategies for this common deafness. It is worthy of further study on the detailed cellular and molecular upstream mechanisms to modify connexin (channel) function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjin Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jifang Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Junmin Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianhua Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Shule Hou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shule Hou,
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Jun Yang,
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9
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Fonseca JP, Aslankoohi E, Ng AH, Chevalier M. Analysis of localized cAMP perturbations within a tissue reveal the effects of a local, dynamic gap junction state on ERK signaling. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009873. [PMID: 35353814 PMCID: PMC9000136 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Beyond natural stimuli such as growth factors and stresses, the ability to experimentally modulate at will the levels or activity of specific intracellular signaling molecule(s) in specified cells within a tissue can be a powerful tool for uncovering new regulation and tissue behaviors. Here we perturb the levels of cAMP within specific cells of an epithelial monolayer to probe the time-dynamic behavior of cell-cell communication protocols implemented by the cAMP/PKA pathway and its coupling to the ERK pathway. The time-dependent ERK responses we observe in the perturbed cells for spatially uniform cAMP perturbations (all cells) can be very different from those due to spatially localized perturbations (a few cells). Through a combination of pharmacological and genetic perturbations, signal analysis, and computational modeling, we infer how intracellular regulation and regulated cell-cell coupling each impact the intracellular ERK response in single cells. Our approach reveals how a dynamic gap junction state helps sculpt the intracellular ERK response over time in locally perturbed cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elham Aslankoohi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America
| | - Andrew H. Ng
- Outpace Bio, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Michael Chevalier
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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10
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Function and Plasticity of Electrical Synapses in the Mammalian Brain: Role of Non-Junctional Mechanisms. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11010081. [PMID: 35053079 PMCID: PMC8773336 DOI: 10.3390/biology11010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Relevant brain functions, such as perception, organization of behavior, and cognitive processes, are the outcome of information processing by neural circuits. Within these circuits, communication between neurons mainly relies on two modalities of synaptic transmission: chemical and electrical. Moreover, changes in the strength of these connections, aka synaptic plasticity, are believed to underlie processes of learning and memory, and its dysfunction has been suggested to underlie a variety of neurological disorders. While the relevance of chemical transmission and its plastic changes are known in great detail, analogous mechanisms and functional impact of their electrical counterparts were only recently acknowledged. In this article, we review the basic physical principles behind electrical transmission between neurons, the plethora of functional operations supported by this modality of neuron-to-neuron communication, as well as the basic principles of plasticity at these synapses. Abstract Electrical transmission between neurons is largely mediated by gap junctions. These junctions allow the direct flow of electric current between neurons, and in mammals, they are mostly composed of the protein connexin36. Circuits of electrically coupled neurons are widespread in these animals. Plus, experimental and theoretical evidence supports the notion that, beyond synchronicity, these circuits are able to perform sophisticated operations such as lateral excitation and inhibition, noise reduction, as well as the ability to selectively respond upon coincident excitatory inputs. Although once considered stereotyped and unmodifiable, we now know that electrical synapses are subject to modulation and, by reconfiguring neural circuits, these modulations can alter relevant operations. The strength of electrical synapses depends on the gap junction resistance, as well as on its functional interaction with the electrophysiological properties of coupled neurons. In particular, voltage and ligand gated channels of the non-synaptic membrane critically determine the efficacy of transmission at these contacts. Consistently, modulatory actions on these channels have been shown to represent relevant mechanisms of plasticity of electrical synaptic transmission. Here, we review recent evidence on the regulation of electrical synapses of mammals, the underlying molecular mechanisms, and the possible ways in which they affect circuit function.
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11
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Jindal S, Chockalingam S, Ghosh SS, Packirisamy G. Connexin and gap junctions: perspectives from biology to nanotechnology based therapeutics. Transl Res 2021; 235:144-167. [PMID: 33582245 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The concept of gap junctions and their role in intercellular communication has been known for around 50 years. Considerable progress has been made in understanding the fundamental biology of connexins in mediating gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and their role in various cellular processes including pathological conditions. However, this understanding has not led to development of advanced therapeutics utilizing GJIC. Inadequacies in strategies that target specific connexin protein in the affected tissue, with minimal or no collateral damage, are the primary reason for the lack of development of efficient therapeutic models. Herein, nanotechnology has a role to play, giving plenty of scope to circumvent these problems and develop more efficient connexin based therapeutics. AsODN, antisense oligodeoxynucleotides; BMPs, bone morphogenetic proteins; BMSCs, bone marrow stem cells; BG, bioglass; Cx, Connexin; CxRE, connexin-responsive elements; CoCr NPs, cobalt-chromium nanoparticles; cGAMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate; cAMP, cyclic adenosine monophosphate; ERK1/2, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2; EMT, epithelial-mesenchymal transition; EPA, eicosapentaenoic acids; FGFR1, fibroblast growth factor receptor 1; FRAP, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching; 5-FU, 5-fluorouracil; GJ, gap junction; GJIC, gap junctional intercellular communication; HGPRTase, hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase; HSV-TK, herpes virus thymidine kinase; HSA, human serum albumin; HA, hyaluronic acid; HDAC, histone deacetylase; IRI, ischemia reperfusion injury; IL-6, interleukin-6; IL-8, interleukin-8; IONPs, iron-oxide nanoparticles; JNK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase; LAMP, local activation of molecular fluorescent probe; MSCs, mesenchymal stem cells; MMP, matrix metalloproteinase; MI, myocardial infarction; MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase; NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa B; NO, nitric oxide; PKC, protein kinase C; QDs, quantum dots; ROI, region of interest; RGO, reduced graphene oxide; siRNA, small interfering RNA; TGF-β1, transforming growth factor-β1; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-α; UCN, upconversion nanoparticles; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor. In this review, we discuss briefly the role of connexins and gap junctions in various physiological and pathological processes, with special emphasis on cancer. We further discuss the application of nanotechnology and tissue engineering in developing treatments for various connexin based disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shlok Jindal
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India
| | - S Chockalingam
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, India
| | - Siddhartha Sankar Ghosh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Gopinath Packirisamy
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India; Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India.
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12
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Jiang W, Lin YC, Botello-Smith W, Contreras JE, Harris AL, Maragliano L, Luo YL. Free energy and kinetics of cAMP permeation through connexin26 via applied voltage and milestoning. Biophys J 2021; 120:2969-2983. [PMID: 34214529 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The connexin family is a diverse group of highly regulated wide-pore channels permeable to biological signaling molecules. Despite the critical roles of connexins in mediating selective molecular signaling in health and disease, the basis of molecular permeation through these pores remains unclear. Here, we report the thermodynamics and kinetics of binding and transport of a second messenger, adenosine-3',5'-cyclophosphate (cAMP), through a connexin26 hemichannel (Cx26). First, inward and outward fluxes of cAMP molecules solvated in KCl solution were obtained from 4 μs of ± 200 mV simulations. These fluxes data yielded a single-channel permeability of cAMP and cAMP/K+ permeability ratio consistent with experimentally measured values. The results from voltage simulations were then compared with the potential of mean force (PMF) and the mean first passage times (MFPTs) of a single cAMP without voltage, obtained from a total of 16.5 μs of Voronoi-tessellated Markovian milestoning simulations. Both the voltage simulations and the milestoning simulations revealed two cAMP-binding sites, for which the binding constants KD and dissociation rates koff were computed from PMF and MFPTs. The protein dipole inside the pore produces an asymmetric PMF, reflected in unequal cAMP MFPTs in each direction once within the pore. The free energy profiles under opposite voltages were derived from the milestoning PMF and revealed the interplay between voltage and channel polarity on the total free energy. In addition, we show how these factors influence the cAMP dipole vector during permeation, and how cAMP affects the local and nonlocal pore diameter in a position-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California
| | - Yi-Chun Lin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California
| | - Wesley Botello-Smith
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California
| | - Jorge E Contreras
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California.
| | - Andrew L Harris
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey.
| | - Luca Maragliano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy; Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Yun Lyna Luo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California.
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13
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Yokoyama K, Irie M, Tsuchiya N, Yamauchi E, Kawashima M, Miyayama T, Fukuda H, Yamauchi R, Umeda K, Takata K, Tanaka T, Inomata S, Morihara D, Takeyama Y, Shakado S, Sakisaka S, Hirai F. Irsogladine maleate alters expression of a tight junction protein in portal hypertensive gastropathy. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:1208-1215. [PMID: 32926748 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) is characterized by noninflammatory edema and vasodilatation of the lamina propria of the mucosal epithelium. In addition, the alterations of intercellular junction proteins and dilatation of the endothelial gaps have been reported. In this study, we examined whether irsogladine maleate (IM), a gastric mucosal protective agent, has the potential to improve PHG by restoration of tight junctions (TJs). METHODS Twenty-four patients with PHG were registered and randomly assigned into two groups: 12 patients in the IM-administration group and 12 patients in the non-administration group. In the administration group, IM (4 mg/day) was administered orally for 12 weeks. Gastric mucosa with a red color in patients with PHG were obtained endoscopically on the registration day and 12 weeks later. The endoscopic findings were evaluated, an immunohistochemical analysis of claudin-3 (a TJ protein) expression in gastric mucosal tissues by a laser microscope was performed, and claudin-3 expression was quantified by western blot analysis. RESULTS Irsogladine maleate improved the degree of PHG in 2/12 patients endoscopically, in contrast to none of the 12 patients in the non-administration group. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that expression of claudin-3 increased in 8/12 patients in the IM-administration group and 2/12 patients in the non-administration group (P = 0.036). Western blot analysis revealed that the increase in claudin-3 after 12 weeks was significantly higher in the IM-administration group than in the non-administration group (P = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS The present pilot study suggested that IM might improve the gastric mucosa in PHG through restoration of TJ-protein claudin-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Yokoyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Makoto Irie
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Fukuoka University Nishijin Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naoaki Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Eri Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Motoko Kawashima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Miyayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiromi Fukuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryo Yamauchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kaoru Umeda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Takata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinjiro Inomata
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Daisuke Morihara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Takeyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Shakado
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shotaro Sakisaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Fumihito Hirai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
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14
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Connexins in the Heart: Regulation, Function and Involvement in Cardiac Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094413. [PMID: 33922534 PMCID: PMC8122935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of transmembrane proteins that play a key role in cardiac physiology. Gap junctional channels put into contact the cytoplasms of connected cardiomyocytes, allowing the existence of electrical coupling. However, in addition to this fundamental role, connexins are also involved in cardiomyocyte death and survival. Thus, chemical coupling through gap junctions plays a key role in the spreading of injury between connected cells. Moreover, in addition to their involvement in cell-to-cell communication, mounting evidence indicates that connexins have additional gap junction-independent functions. Opening of unopposed hemichannels, located at the lateral surface of cardiomyocytes, may compromise cell homeostasis and may be involved in ischemia/reperfusion injury. In addition, connexins located at non-canonical cell structures, including mitochondria and the nucleus, have been demonstrated to be involved in cardioprotection and in regulation of cell growth and differentiation. In this review, we will provide, first, an overview on connexin biology, including their synthesis and degradation, their regulation and their interactions. Then, we will conduct an in-depth examination of the role of connexins in cardiac pathophysiology, including new findings regarding their involvement in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, cardiac fibrosis, gene transcription or signaling regulation.
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15
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Natha CM, Vemulapalli V, Fiori MC, Chang CWT, Altenberg GA. Connexin hemichannel inhibitors with a focus on aminoglycosides. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166115. [PMID: 33711451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane proteins involved directly in cell-to-cell communication through the formation of gap-junctional channels. These channels result from the head-to-head docking of two hemichannels, one from each of two adjacent cells. Undocked hemichannels are also present at the plasma membrane where they mediate the efflux of molecules that participate in autocrine and paracrine signaling, but abnormal increase in hemichannel activity can lead to cell damage in disorders such as cardiac infarct, stroke, deafness, cataracts, and skin diseases. For this reason, connexin hemichannels have emerged as a valid therapeutic target. Know small molecule hemichannel inhibitors are not ideal leads for the development of better drugs for clinical use because they are not specific and/or have toxic effects. Newer inhibitors are more selective and include connexin mimetic peptides, anti-connexin antibodies and drugs that reduce connexin expression such as antisense oligonucleotides. Re-purposed drugs and their derivatives are also promising because of the significant experience with their clinical use. Among these, aminoglycoside antibiotics have been identified as inhibitors of connexin hemichannels that do not inhibit gap-junctional channels. In this review, we discuss connexin hemichannels and their inhibitors, with a focus on aminoglycoside antibiotics and derivatives of kanamycin A that inhibit connexin hemichannels, but do not have antibiotic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Natha
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Varun Vemulapalli
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Mariana C Fiori
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Cheng-Wei T Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Guillermo A Altenberg
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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16
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Acosta ML, Mat Nor MN, Guo CX, Mugisho OO, Coutinho FP, Rupenthal ID, Green CR. Connexin therapeutics: blocking connexin hemichannel pores is distinct from blocking pannexin channels or gap junctions. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:482-488. [PMID: 32985469 PMCID: PMC7996017 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.290097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Compounds that block the function of connexin and pannexin protein channels have been suggested to be valuable therapeutics for a range of diseases. Some of these compounds are now in clinical trials, but for many of them, the literature is inconclusive about the molecular effect on the tissue, despite evidence of functional recovery. Blocking the different channel types has distinct physiological and pathological implications and this review describes current knowledge of connexin and pannexin protein channels, their function as channels and possible mechanisms of the channel block effect for the latest therapeutic compounds. We summarize the evidence implicating pannexins and connexins in disease, considering their homeostatic versus pathological roles, their contribution to excesive ATP release linked to disease onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica L Acosta
- School of Optometry and Vision Science; New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland; Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland; Brain Research New Zealand-Rangahau Roro Aotearoa, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mohd N Mat Nor
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Cindy X Guo
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Odunayo O Mugisho
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland; Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology; New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Frazer P Coutinho
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ilva D Rupenthal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland; Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology; New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Colin R Green
- Department of Ophthalmology; New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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17
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Strauss RE, Gourdie RG. Cx43 and the Actin Cytoskeleton: Novel Roles and Implications for Cell-Cell Junction-Based Barrier Function Regulation. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1656. [PMID: 33321985 PMCID: PMC7764618 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Barrier function is a vital homeostatic mechanism employed by epithelial and endothelial tissue. Diseases across a wide range of tissue types involve dynamic changes in transcellular junctional complexes and the actin cytoskeleton in the regulation of substance exchange across tissue compartments. In this review, we focus on the contribution of the gap junction protein, Cx43, to the biophysical and biochemical regulation of barrier function. First, we introduce the structure and canonical channel-dependent functions of Cx43. Second, we define barrier function and examine the key molecular structures fundamental to its regulation. Third, we survey the literature on the channel-dependent roles of connexins in barrier function, with an emphasis on the role of Cx43 and the actin cytoskeleton. Lastly, we discuss findings on the channel-independent roles of Cx43 in its associations with the actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion structures highlighted by PI3K signaling, in the potential modulation of cellular barriers. Mounting evidence of crosstalk between connexins, the cytoskeleton, focal adhesion complexes, and junctional structures has led to a growing appreciation of how barrier-modulating mechanisms may work together to effect solute and cellular flux across tissue boundaries. This new understanding could translate into improved therapeutic outcomes in the treatment of barrier-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy E. Strauss
- Virginia Tech, Translational Biology Medicine and Health (TBMH) Program, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Robert G. Gourdie
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
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18
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PAI-1-Dependent Inactivation of SMAD4-Modulated Junction and Adhesion Complex in Obese Endometrial Cancer. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108253. [PMID: 33053339 PMCID: PMC7641039 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
While plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is known to potentiate cellular migration via proteolytic regulation, this adipokine is implicated as an oncogenic ligand in the tumor microenvironment. To understand the underlying paracrine mechanism, here, we conduct transcriptomic analysis of 1,898 endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) exposed and unexposed to PAI-1-secreting adipose stromal cells. The PAI-1-dependent action deregulates crosstalk among tumor-promoting and tumor-repressing pathways, including transforming growth factor β (TGF-β). When PAI-1 is tethered to lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), the internalized signaling causes downregulation of SMAD4 at the transcriptional and post-translational levels that attenuates TGF-β-related transcription programs. Repression of genes encoding the junction and adhesion complex preferentially occurs in SMAD4-underexpressed EECs of persons with obesity. The findings highlight a role of PAI-1 signaling that renders ineffective intercellular communication for the development of adiposity-associated endometrial cancer. Lin et al. demonstrate that PAI-1 secreted by adipose stromal cells interacts with LRP1 to repress TGF-β/SMAD4-regulated genes linked to cellular junction and adhesion complexes. This action disrupts cell-cell communication and facilitates the development of obesity-driven endometrial cancer.
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19
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Brink PR, Valiunas V, White TW. Lens Connexin Channels Show Differential Permeability to Signaling Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186943. [PMID: 32971763 PMCID: PMC7555617 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels mediate the direct intercellular passage of small ions as well as larger solutes such as second messengers. A family of proteins called connexins make up the subunits of gap junction channels in chordate animals. Each individual connexin forms channels that exhibit distinct permeability to molecules that influence cellular signaling, such as calcium ions, cyclic nucleotides, or inositol phosphates. In this review, we examine the permeability of connexin channels containing Cx43, Cx46, and Cx50 to signaling molecules and attempt to relate the observed differences in permeability to possible in vivo consequences that were revealed by studies of transgenic animals where these connexin genes have been manipulated. Taken together, these data suggest that differences in the permeability of individual connexin channels to larger solutes like 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) could play a role in regulating epithelial cell division, differentiation, and homeostasis in organs like the ocular lens.
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20
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Valiunas V, White TW. Connexin43 and connexin50 channels exhibit different permeability to the second messenger inositol triphosphate. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8744. [PMID: 32457413 PMCID: PMC7251084 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65761-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels made of different connexins have distinct permeability to second messengers, which could affect many cell processes, including lens epithelial cell division. Here, we have compared the permeability of IP3 and Ca2+ through channels made from two connexins, Cx43 and Cx50, that are highly expressed in vertebrate lens epithelial cells. Solute transfer was measured while simultaneously monitoring junctional conductance via dual whole-cell/perforated patch clamp. HeLa cells expressing Cx43 or Cx50 were loaded with Fluo-8, and IP3 or Ca2+ were delivered via patch pipette to one cell of a pair, or to a monolayer while fluorescence intensity changes were recorded. Cx43 channels were permeable to IP3 and Ca2+. Conversely, Cx50 channels were impermeable to IP3, while exhibiting high permeation of Ca2+. Reduced Cx50 permeability to IP3 could play a role in regulating cell division and homeostasis in the lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- The Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Thomas W White
- The Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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21
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Khan AK, Jagielnicki M, McIntire WE, Purdy MD, Dharmarajan V, Griffin PR, Yeager M. A Steric “Ball-and-Chain” Mechanism for pH-Mediated Regulation of Gap Junction Channels. Cell Rep 2020; 31:107482. [PMID: 32320665 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels (GJCs) mediate intercellular communication and are gated by numerous conditions such as pH. The electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM) structure of Cx26 GJC at physiological pH recapitulates previous GJC structures in lipid bilayers. At pH 6.4, we identify two conformational states, one resembling the open physiological-pH structure and a closed conformation that displays six threads of density, that join to form a pore-occluding density. Crosslinking and hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry reveal closer association between the N-terminal (NT) domains and the cytoplasmic loops (CL) at acidic pH. Previous electrophysiologic studies suggest an association between NT residue N14 and H100 near M2, which may trigger the observed movement of M2 toward M1 in our cryo-EM maps, thereby accounting for additional NT-CL crosslinks at acidic pH. We propose that these pH-induced interactions and conformational changes result in extension, ordering, and association of the acetylated NT domains to form a hexameric "ball-and-chain" gating particle.
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Abstract
This protocol was developed to assess communication in tumor cells and to provide a dependable and standardized assay for the in vitro determination of gap junction function. The method is noninvasive; in this method, the cell population under study is divided such that 1 fraction is loaded with a lipophilic cell plasma membrane permeable dye, calcein acetoxymethyl ester, that is hydrolyzed upon cellular uptake by cytoplasmic esterases to yield calcein, a fluorescent and membrane-impermeable molecule. The other fraction is loaded with 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3' tetramethylindodicarbocyanine perchlorate (DiD)/1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate [Dil; DilC18(3)], which is a lipophilic membrane dye that diffuses laterally to stain the entire cell membrane, is impermeable, and attains an orange-red fluorescence upon incorporation into membranes. The 2 fractions are mixed and incubated under coculture conditions. Calcein with MW 890 kD is transferred to the DiD/DiI-stained cells through gap junctions. The assessment of this uptake is made with confocal imaging and quantitated using flow cytometry. Cell lines representing cancer of the breast as well as a nontransformed cell line developed from the buccal mucosa were analyzed for gap junction competency. Confocal imaging with acquisition at specific time points during the in vitro treatment and flow cytometry gave a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the passage of molecules through the gap junctions. Here, the method has been combined to obtain images as well as quantitation and is a simple and effective approach in assessing the functional competency of gap junction in epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujjwala M Warawdekar
- Cancer Research Institute (CRI) Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai 410210, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400085, India
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23
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Cocozzelli AG, White TW. Connexin 43 Mutations Lead to Increased Hemichannel Functionality in Skin Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246186. [PMID: 31817921 PMCID: PMC6940829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctional channels are specialized components of the cellular membrane that allow the intercellular passage of small metabolites, ions, and second messengers to maintain homeostasis. They are comprised of members of the connexin gene family that encode a wide array of proteins that are expressed in nearly every tissue type. Cx43 is perceived to be the most broadly expressed connexin in humans, with several genetic skin diseases being linked to Cx43 mutations specifically. These mutations, in large, produce a gain of functional hemichannels that contribute to the phenotypes of Erythrokeratoderma Variabilis et Progressiva (EKVP), Palmoplantar Keratodemra Congenital Alopecia-1 (PPKCA1), and others that produce large conductance and increased permselectivity in otherwise quiescent structures. Gaining functional hemichannels can have adverse effects in the skin, inducing apoptosis via Ca2+ overload or increased ATP permeability. Here, we review the link between Cx43 and skin disease. We aim to provide insight into the mechanisms regulating the normal and pathophysiological gating of these essential proteins, as well as address current therapeutic strategies. We also demonstrate that transient transfection of neuro-2a (N2a) cells with mutant Cx43 cDNA resulted in increased hemichannel activity compared to wild-type Cx43 and untransfected cells, which is consistent with other studies in the current literature.
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Yang W, Lampe PD, Kensel-Hammes P, Hesson J, Ware CB, Crisa L, Cirulli V. Connexin 43 Functions as a Positive Regulator of Stem Cell Differentiation into Definitive Endoderm and Pancreatic Progenitors. iScience 2019; 19:450-460. [PMID: 31430690 PMCID: PMC6708988 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient stem cell differentiation into pancreatic islet cells is of critical importance for the development of cell replacement therapies for diabetes. Here, we identify the expression pattern of connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction (GJ) channel protein, in human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived definitive endoderm (DE) and primitive gut tube cells, representing early lineages for posterior foregut (PF), pancreatic progenitors (PP), pancreatic endocrine progenitors (PE), and islet cells. As the function of GJ channels is dependent on their gating status, we tested the impact of supplementing hESC-derived PP cell cultures with AAP10, a peptide that promotes Cx43 GJ channel opening. We found that this treatment promotes the expression of DE markers FoxA2 and Sox17, leads to a more efficient derivation of DE, and improves the yield of PF, PP, and PE cells. These results demonstrate a functional involvement of GJ channels in the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into pancreatic cell lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Yang
- Department of Medicine, UW Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S475, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Patricia Kensel-Hammes
- Department of Medicine, UW Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S475, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Jennifer Hesson
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S480, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Carol B Ware
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S480, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Laura Crisa
- Department of Medicine, UW Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S475, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S480, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Vincenzo Cirulli
- Department of Medicine, UW Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S475, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, 850 Republican Street, S480, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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25
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Valiunas V, Brink PR, White TW. Lens Connexin Channels Have Differential Permeability to the Second Messenger cAMP. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 60:3821-3829. [PMID: 31529078 PMCID: PMC6750889 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Gap junction channels exhibit connexin specific biophysical properties, including the selective intercellular passage of larger solutes, such as second messengers. Here, we have examined the cyclic nucleotide permeability of the lens connexins, which could influence events like epithelial cell division and differentiation. Methods We compared the cAMP permeability through channels composed of Cx43, Cx46, or Cx50 using simultaneous measurements of junctional conductance and intercellular transfer. For cAMP detection, the recipient cells were transfected with a cAMP sensor gene, the cyclic nucleotide-modulated channel from sea urchin sperm (SpIH). cAMP was introduced via patch pipette into the cell of the pair that did not express SpIH. SpIH-derived currents were recorded from the other cell of a pair that expressed SpIH. cAMP permeability was also directly visualized in transfected cells using a chemically modified fluorescent form of the molecule. Results cAMP transfer was observed for homotypic Cx43 channels over a wide range of junctional conductance. Homotypic Cx46 channels also transferred cAMP, but permeability was reduced compared with Cx43. In contrast, homotypic Cx50 channels exhibited extremely low permeability to cAMP, when compared with either Cx43, or Cx46. Conclusions These data show that channels made from Cx43 and Cx46 result in the intercellular delivery of cAMP in sufficient quantity to activate cyclic nucleotide-modulated channels. The data also suggest that the greatly reduced cAMP permeability of Cx50 channels could play a role in the regulation of cell division in the lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
| | - Peter R. Brink
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
| | - Thomas W. White
- The Renaissance Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States
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Mammano F. Inner Ear Connexin Channels: Roles in Development and Maintenance of Cochlear Function. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a033233. [PMID: 30181354 PMCID: PMC6601451 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Connexin 26 and connexin 30 are the prevailing isoforms in the epithelial and connective tissue gap junction systems of the developing and mature cochlea. The most frequently encountered variants of the genes that encode these connexins, which are transcriptionally coregulated, determine complete loss of protein function and are the predominant cause of prelingual hereditary deafness. Reducing connexin 26 expression by Cre/loxP recombination in the inner ear of adult mice results in a decreased endocochlear potential, increased hearing thresholds, and loss of >90% of outer hair cells, indicating that this connexin is essential for maintenance of cochlear function. In the developing cochlea, connexins are necessary for intercellular calcium signaling activity. Ribbon synapses and basolateral membrane currents fail to mature in inner hair cells of mice that are born with reduced connexin expression, even though hair cells do not express any connexin. In contrast, pannexin 1, an alternative mediator of intercellular signaling, is dispensable for hearing acquisition and auditory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Mammano
- University of Padova, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei," Padova 35129, Italy
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Monterotondo 00015, Italy
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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Denis JF, Diagbouga MR, Molica F, Hautefort A, Linnerz T, Watanabe M, Lemeille S, Bertrand JY, Kwak BR. KLF4-Induced Connexin40 Expression Contributes to Arterial Endothelial Quiescence. Front Physiol 2019; 10:80. [PMID: 30809154 PMCID: PMC6379456 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Shear stress, a blood flow-induced frictional force, is essential in the control of endothelial cell (EC) homeostasis. High laminar shear stress (HLSS), as observed in straight parts of arteries, assures a quiescent non-activated endothelium through the induction of Krüppel-like transcription factors (KLFs). Connexin40 (Cx40)-mediated gap junctional communication is known to contribute to a healthy endothelium by propagating anti-inflammatory signals between ECs, however, the molecular basis of the transcriptional regulation of Cx40 as well as its downstream effectors remain poorly understood. Here, we show that flow-induced KLF4 regulated Cx40 expression in a mouse EC line. Chromatin immunoprecipitation in ECs revealed that KLF4 bound to three predicted KLF consensus binding sites in the Cx40 promoter. HLSS-dependent induction of Cx40 expression was confirmed in primary human ECs. The downstream effects of Cx40 modulation in ECs exposed to HLSS were elucidated by an unbiased transcriptomics approach. Cell cycle progression was identified as an important downstream target of Cx40 under HLSS. In agreement, an increase in the proportion of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive ECs and a decrease in the proportion of ECs in the G0/G1 phase were observed under HLSS after Cx40 silencing. Transfection of communication-incompetent HeLa cells with Cx40 demonstrated that the regulation of proliferation by Cx40 was not limited to ECs. Using a zebrafish model, we finally showed faster intersegmental vessel growth and branching into the dorsal longitudinal anastomotic vessel in embryos knock-out for the Cx40 orthologs Cx41.8 and Cx45.6. Most significant effects were observed in embryos with a mutant Cx41.8 encoding for a channel with reduced gap junctional function. Faster intersegmental vessel growth in Cx41.8 mutant embryos was associated with increased EC proliferation as assessed by PH3 immunostaining. Our data shows a novel evolutionary-conserved role of flow-driven KLF4-dependent Cx40 expression in endothelial quiescence that may be relevant for the control of atherosclerosis and diseases involving sprouting angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Denis
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Filippo Molica
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aurélie Hautefort
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Linnerz
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Sylvain Lemeille
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julien Y Bertrand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Medical Specializations - Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Connexin43 mutations linked to skin disease have augmented hemichannel activity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19. [PMID: 30631135 PMCID: PMC6328547 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene (GJA1) encoding connexin43 (Cx43) are responsible for several rare genetic disorders, including non-syndromic skin-limited diseases. Here we used two different functional expression systems to characterize three Cx43 mutations linked to palmoplantar keratoderma and congenital alopecia-1, erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva, or inflammatory linear verrucous epidermal nevus. In HeLa cells and Xenopus oocytes, we show that Cx43-G8V, Cx43-A44V and Cx43-E227D all formed functional gap junction channels with the same efficiency as wild-type Cx43, with normal voltage gating and a unitary conductance of ~110 pS. In HeLa cells, all three mutations also localized to regions of cell-cell contact and displayed a punctate staining pattern. In addition, we show that Cx43-G8V, Cx43-A44V and Cx43-E227D significantly increase membrane current flow through formation of active hemichannels, a novel activity that was not displayed by wild-type Cx43. The increased membrane current was inhibited by either 2 mM calcium, or 5 µM gadolinium, mediated by hemichannels with a unitary conductance of ~250 pS, and was not due to elevated mutant protein expression. The three Cx43 mutations all showed the same gain of function activity, suggesting that augmented hemichannel activity could play a role in skin-limited diseases caused by human Cx43 mutations.
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29
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Cardiomyocyte Progenitor Cells as a Functional Gene Delivery Vehicle for Long-Term Biological Pacing. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24010181. [PMID: 30621310 PMCID: PMC6337610 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustained pacemaker function is a challenge in biological pacemaker engineering. Human cardiomyocyte progenitor cells (CMPCs) have exhibited extended survival in the heart after transplantation. We studied whether lentivirally transduced CMPCs that express the pacemaker current If (encoded by HCN4) can be used as functional gene delivery vehicle in biological pacing. Human CMPCs were isolated from fetal hearts using magnetic beads coated with Sca-1 antibody, cultured in nondifferentiating conditions, and transduced with a green fluorescent protein (GFP)- or HCN4-GFP-expressing lentivirus. A patch-clamp analysis showed a large hyperpolarization-activated, time-dependent inward current (−20 pA/pF at −140 mV, n = 14) with properties typical of If in HCN4-GFP-expressing CMPCs. Gap-junctional coupling between CMPCs and neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) was demonstrated by efficient dye transfer and changes in spontaneous beating activity. In organ explant cultures, the number of preparations showing spontaneous beating activity increased from 6.3% in CMPC/GFP-injected preparations to 68.2% in CMPC/HCN4-GFP-injected preparations (P < 0.05). Furthermore, in CMPC/HCN4-GFP-injected preparations, isoproterenol induced a significant reduction in cycle lengths from 648 ± 169 to 392 ± 71 ms (P < 0.05). In sum, CMPCs expressing HCN4-GFP functionally couple to NRVMs and induce physiologically controlled pacemaker activity and may therefore provide an attractive delivery platform for sustained pacemaker function.
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Polusani SR, Huang YW, Huang G, Chen CW, Wang CM, Lin LL, Osmulski P, Lucio ND, Liu L, Hsu YT, Zhou Y, Lin CL, Aguilera-Barrantes I, Valente PT, Kost ER, Chen CL, Shim EY, Lee SE, Ruan J, Gaczynska ME, Yan P, Goodfellow PJ, Mutch DG, Jin VX, Nicholson BJ, Huang THM, Kirma NB. Adipokines Deregulate Cellular Communication via Epigenetic Repression of Gap Junction Loci in Obese Endometrial Cancer. Cancer Res 2019; 79:196-208. [PMID: 30389702 PMCID: PMC6705596 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-1615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that adipose stromal cells (ASC) are recruited to enhance cancer development. In this study, we examined the role these adipocyte progenitors play relating to intercellular communication in obesity-associated endometrial cancer. This is particularly relevant given that gap junctions have been implicated in tumor suppression. Examining the effects of ASCs on the transcriptome of endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) in an in vitro coculture system revealed transcriptional repression of GJA1 (encoding the gap junction protein Cx43) and other genes related to intercellular communication. This repression was recapitulated in an obesity mouse model of endometrial cancer. Furthermore, inhibition of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), which was the most abundant ASC adipokine, led to reversal of cellular distribution associated with the GJA1 repression profile, suggesting that PAI-1 may mediate actions of ASC on transcriptional regulation in EEC. In an endometrial cancer cohort (n = 141), DNA hypermethylation of GJA1 and related loci TJP2 and PRKCA was observed in primary endometrial endometrioid tumors and was associated with obesity. Pharmacologic reversal of DNA methylation enhanced gap-junction intercellular communication and cell-cell interactions in vitro. Restoring Cx43 expression in endometrial cancer cells reduced cellular migration; conversely, depletion of Cx43 increased cell migration in immortalized normal EEC. Our data suggest that persistent repression by ASC adipokines leads to promoter hypermethylation of GJA1 and related genes in the endometrium, triggering long-term silencing of these loci in endometrial tumors of obese patients. SIGNIFICANCE: Studies reveal that adipose-derived stem cells in endometrial cancer pathogenesis influence epigenetic repression of gap junction loci, which suggests targeting of gap junction activity as a preventive strategy for obesity-associated endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth R Polusani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Yi-Wen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukie, Wisconsin
| | - Guangcun Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Chiou-Miin Wang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Li-Ling Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Pawel Osmulski
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Nicholas D Lucio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Lu Liu
- Department of Computer Science, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Ya-Ting Hsu
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Yufan Zhou
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Chun-Lin Lin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | | | - Philip T Valente
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Edward R Kost
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Chun-Liang Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Eun Yong Shim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Sang Eun Lee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Jianhua Ruan
- Department of Computer Science, University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Maria E Gaczynska
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Pearlly Yan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Paul J Goodfellow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - David G Mutch
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Victor X Jin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Bruce J Nicholson
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Tim H-M Huang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas.
| | - Nameer B Kirma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas.
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Abstract
As the physiology of synapses began to be explored in the 1950s, it became clear that electrical communication between neurons could not always be explained by chemical transmission. Instead, careful studies pointed to a direct intercellular pathway of current flow and to the anatomical structure that was (eventually) called the gap junction. The mechanism of intercellular current flow was simple compared with chemical transmission, but the consequences of electrical signaling in excitable tissues were not. With the recognition that channels were a means of passive ion movement across membranes, the character and behavior of gap junction channels came under scrutiny. It became evident that these gated channels mediated intercellular transfer of small molecules as well as atomic ions, thereby mediating chemical, as well as electrical, signaling. Members of the responsible protein family in vertebrates-connexins-were cloned and their channels studied by many of the increasingly biophysical techniques that were being applied to other channels. As described here, much of the evolution of the field, from electrical coupling to channel structure-function, has appeared in the pages of the Journal of General Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Harris
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
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32
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Value of multilocus genetic risk score for atrial fibrillation in end-stage kidney disease patients in a Polish population. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9284. [PMID: 29915175 PMCID: PMC6006310 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27382-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic factors play a key role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). We would like to establish an association between previously described single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and AF in haemodialysed patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD-HD) as well as to assess the cumulative effect of all genotyped SNPs on AF risk. Sixteen SNPs were genotyped in 113 patients with AF-ESKD-HD and in 157 controls: without AF (NAF) and with ESKD-HD. The distribution of the risk alleles was compared in both groups and between different sub-phenotypes. The multilocus genetic risk score (GRS) was calculated to estimate the cumulative risk conferred by all SNPs. Several loci showed a trend toward an association with permanent AF (perm-AF): CAV1, Cx40 and PITX2. However, GRS was significantly higher in the AF and perm-AF groups, as compared to NAF. Three of the tested variables were independently associated with AF: male sex, history of myocardial infarction (MI) and GRS. The GRS, which combined 13 previously described SNPs, showed a significant and independent association with AF in a Polish population of patients with ESKD-HD and concomitant AF. Further studies on larger groups of patients are needed to confirm the associations.
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Valiunas V, Cohen IS, Brink PR. Defining the factors that affect solute permeation of gap junction channels. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2018; 1860:96-101. [PMID: 28690048 PMCID: PMC5705451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
This review focuses on the biophysical properties and structure of the pore and vestibule of homotypic gap junction channels as they relate to channel permeability and selectivity. Gap junction channels are unique in their sole role to connect the cytoplasm of two adjacent cells. In general, these channels are considered to be poorly selective, possess open probabilities approximating unity, and exhibit mean open times ranging from milliseconds to seconds. These properties suggest that such channels can function as delivery pathways from cell to cell for solutes that are significantly larger than monovalent ions. We have taken quantitative data from published works concerning unitary conductance, ion flux, and permeability for homotypic connexin 43 (Cx43), Cx40, Cx26, Cx50, and Cx37, and performed a comparative analysis of conductance and/or ion/solute flux versus diffusion coefficient. The analysis of monovalent cation flux portrays the pore as equivalent to an aqueous space where hydrogen bonding and weak interactions with binding sites dominate. For larger solutes, size, shape and charge are also significant components in determining the permeation rate. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginijus Valiunas
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
| | - Ira S Cohen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Peter R Brink
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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Xu L, Carrer A, Zonta F, Qu Z, Ma P, Li S, Ceriani F, Buratto D, Crispino G, Zorzi V, Ziraldo G, Bruno F, Nardin C, Peres C, Mazzarda F, Salvatore AM, Raspa M, Scavizzi F, Chu Y, Xie S, Yang X, Liao J, Liu X, Wang W, Wang S, Yang G, Lerner RA, Mammano F. Design and Characterization of a Human Monoclonal Antibody that Modulates Mutant Connexin 26 Hemichannels Implicated in Deafness and Skin Disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:298. [PMID: 29018324 PMCID: PMC5615210 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mutations leading to changes in properties, regulation, or expression of connexin-made channels have been implicated in 28 distinct human hereditary diseases. Eight of these result from variants of connexin 26 (Cx26), a protein critically involved in cell-cell signaling in the inner ear and skin. Lack of non-toxic drugs with defined mechanisms of action poses a serious obstacle to therapeutic interventions for diseases caused by mutant connexins. In particular, molecules that specifically modulate connexin hemichannel function without affecting gap junction channels are considered of primary importance for the study of connexin hemichannel role in physiological as well as pathological conditions. Monoclonal antibodies developed in the last three decades have become the most important class of therapeutic biologicals. Recombinant methods permit rapid selection and improvement of monoclonal antibodies from libraries with large diversity. Methods: By screening a combinatorial library of human single-chain fragment variable (scFv) antibodies expressed in phage, we identified a candidate that binds an extracellular epitope of Cx26. We characterized antibody action using a variety of biochemical and biophysical assays in HeLa cells, organotypic cultures of mouse cochlea and human keratinocyte-derived cells. Results: We determined that the antibody is a remarkably efficient, non-toxic, and completely reversible inhibitor of hemichannels formed by connexin 26 and does not affect direct cell-cell communication via gap junction channels. Importantly, we also demonstrate that the antibody efficiently inhibits hyperative mutant Cx26 hemichannels implicated in autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing impairment accompanied by keratitis and hystrix-like ichthyosis-deafness (KID/HID) syndrome. We solved the crystal structure of the antibody, identified residues that are critical for binding and used molecular dynamics to uncover its mechanism of action. Conclusions: Although further studies will be necessary to validate the effect of the antibody in vivo, the methodology described here can be extended to select antibodies against hemichannels composed by other connexin isoforms and, consequently, to target other pathologies associated with hyperactive hemichannels. Our study highlights the potential of this approach and identifies connexins as therapeutic targets addressable by screening phage display libraries expressing human randomized antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China.,Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghai, China
| | - Andrea Carrer
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Francesco Zonta
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China.,CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy
| | - Zhihu Qu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Peixiang Ma
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Federico Ceriani
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Damiano Buratto
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Giulia Crispino
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Venetian Institute of Molecular MedicinePadova, Italy
| | - Veronica Zorzi
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Institute of Otolaryngology, Catholic University School of MedicineRome, Italy
| | - Gaia Ziraldo
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Institute of Otolaryngology, Catholic University School of MedicineRome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruno
- Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Venetian Institute of Molecular MedicinePadova, Italy
| | - Chiara Nardin
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Science, Roma Tre UniversityRome, Italy
| | - Chiara Peres
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy
| | - Flavia Mazzarda
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Science, Roma Tre UniversityRome, Italy
| | - Anna M Salvatore
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy
| | - Marcello Raspa
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy
| | | | - Youjun Chu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Sichun Xie
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Jun Liao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China.,Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Richard A Lerner
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research InstituteLa Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Fabio Mammano
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech UniversityShanghai, China.,CNR Institute of Cell Biology and NeurobiologyMonterotondo, Italy.,Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei,", University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Venetian Institute of Molecular MedicinePadova, Italy
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35
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Xu J, Yang G, Li T, Liu L. Myoendothelial gap junctions mediate regulation of angiopoietin-2-induced vascular hyporeactivity after hypoxia through connexin 43-gated cAMP transfer. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2017. [PMID: 28637680 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00369.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) contributes to vascular hyporeactivity after hemorrhagic shock and hypoxia through upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in a vascular endothelial cell (VEC)-specific and Ang-2/Tie2 receptor-dependent manner. While iNOS is primarily expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), the mechanisms of signal transfer from VECs to VSMCs are unknown. A double-sided coculture model with VECs and VSMCs from Sprague-Dawley rats was used to investigate the role of myoendothelial gap junctions (MEGJs), the connexin (Cx) isoforms involved, and other relevant mechanisms. After hypoxia, VSMCs treated with exogenous Ang-2 showed increased iNOS expression and hyporeactivity, as well as MEGJ formation and communication. These Ang-2 effects were suppressed by the MEGJ inhibitor 18α-glycyrrhetic acid (18-GA), Tie2 siRNA, or Cx43 siRNA. Reagents antagonizing cAMP or protein kinase A (PKA) in VECs inhibited Cx43 expression in MEGJs, decreasing MEGJ formation and associated communication, after hypoxia following Ang-2 treatment. The increased cAMP levels in VSMCs and transfer of Alexa Fluor 488-labeled cAMP from VECs to VSMCs, after hypoxia following Ang-2 treatment, was antagonized by Cx43 siRNA. A cAMP antagonist added to VECs or VSMCs inhibited both increased iNOS expression and hyporeactivity in VSMCs subjected to hypoxia following Ang-2 treatment. Based on these findings, we propose that Cx43 was the Cx isoform involved in MEGJ-mediated VEC-dependent regulation of Ang-2, which induces iNOS protein expression and vascular hyporeactivity after hypoxia. Cx43 was upregulated by cAMP and PKA, permitting cAMP transfer between cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Second Department of Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Second Department of Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Second Department of Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liangming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Second Department of Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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36
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Decrock E, Hoorelbeke D, Ramadan R, Delvaeye T, De Bock M, Wang N, Krysko DV, Baatout S, Bultynck G, Aerts A, Vinken M, Leybaert L. Calcium, oxidative stress and connexin channels, a harmonious orchestra directing the response to radiotherapy treatment? BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017; 1864:1099-1120. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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37
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Srinivas M, Verselis VK, White TW. Human diseases associated with connexin mutations. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:192-201. [PMID: 28457858 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions and hemichannels comprised of connexins impact many cellular processes. Significant advances in our understanding of the functional role of these channels have been made by the identification of a host of genetic diseases caused by connexin mutations. Prominent features of connexin disorders are the inability of other connexins expressed in the same cell type to compensate for the mutated one, and the ability of connexin mutants to dominantly influence the activity of other wild-type connexins. Functional studies have begun to identify some of the underlying mechanisms whereby connexin channel mutation contributes to the disease state. Detailed mechanistic understanding of these functional differences will help to facilitate new pathophysiology driven therapies for the diverse array of connexin genetic disorders. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miduturu Srinivas
- Department of Biological and Vision Sciences, SUNY College of Optometry, New York, NY 10036, USA
| | - Vytas K Verselis
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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38
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Jaffe LA, Egbert JR. Regulation of Mammalian Oocyte Meiosis by Intercellular Communication Within the Ovarian Follicle. Annu Rev Physiol 2017; 79:237-260. [PMID: 27860834 PMCID: PMC5305431 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-022516-034102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Meiotic progression in mammalian preovulatory follicles is controlled by the granulosa cells around the oocyte. Cyclic GMP (cGMP) generated in the granulosa cells diffuses through gap junctions into the oocyte, maintaining meiotic prophase arrest. Luteinizing hormone then acts on receptors in outer granulosa cells to rapidly decrease cGMP. This occurs by two complementary pathways: cGMP production is decreased by dephosphorylation and inactivation of the NPR2 guanylyl cyclase, and cGMP hydrolysis is increased by activation of the PDE5 phosphodiesterase. The cGMP decrease in the granulosa cells results in rapid cGMP diffusion out of the oocyte, initiating meiotic resumption. Additional, more slowly developing mechanisms involving paracrine signaling by extracellular peptides (C-type natriuretic peptide and EGF receptor ligands) maintain the low level of cGMP in the oocyte. These coordinated signaling pathways ensure a fail-safe system to prepare the oocyte for fertilization and reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurinda A Jaffe
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030; ,
| | - Jeremy R Egbert
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030; ,
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Escue R, Kandasamy K, Parthasarathi K. Thrombin Induces Inositol Trisphosphate-Mediated Spatially Extensive Responses in Lung Microvessels. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2017; 187:921-935. [PMID: 28188112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Activation of plasma membrane receptors initiates compartmentalized second messenger signaling. Whether this compartmentalization facilitates the preferential intercellular diffusion of specific second messengers is unclear. Toward this, the receptor-mediated agonist, thrombin, was instilled into microvessels in a restricted region of isolated blood-perfused mouse lungs. Subsequently, the thrombin-induced increase in endothelial F-actin was determined using confocal fluorescence microscopy. Increased F-actin was evident in microvessels directly treated with thrombin and in those located in adjoining thrombin-free regions. This increase was abrogated by inhibiting inositol trisphosphate-mediated calcium release with Xestospongin C (XeC). XeC also inhibited the thrombin-induced increase in the amplitude of endothelial cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations. Instillation of thrombin and XeC into adjacent restricted regions increased F-actin in microvessels in the thrombin-treated and adjacent regions but not in those in the XeC-treated region. Thus, inositol trisphosphate, and not calcium, diffused interendothelially to the spatially remote thrombin-free microvessels. Thus, activation of plasma membrane receptors increased the ambit of inflammatory responses via a second messenger different from that used by stimuli that induce cell-wide increases in second messengers. Thrombin however failed to induce the spatially extensive response in microvessels of mice lacking endothelial connexin43, suggesting a role for connexin43 gap junctions. Compartmental second messenger signaling and interendothelial communication define the specific second messenger involved in exacerbating proinflammatory responses to receptor-mediated agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Escue
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Kathirvel Kandasamy
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Kaushik Parthasarathi
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee.
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40
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Batool A, Yasmeen S, Rashid S. T8M mutation in connexin-26 impairs the connexon topology and shifts its interaction paradigm with lipid bilayer leading to non-syndromic hearing loss. J Mol Liq 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2016.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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41
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Computational Studies of Molecular Permeation through Connexin26 Channels. Biophys J 2017; 110:584-599. [PMID: 26840724 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2015.11.3528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A signal property of connexin channels is the ability to mediate selective diffusive movement of molecules through plasma membrane(s), but the energetics and determinants of molecular movement through these channels have yet to be understood. Different connexin channels have distinct molecular selectivities that cannot be explained simply on the basis of size or charge of the permeants. To gain insight into the forces and interactions that underlie selective molecular permeation, we investigated the energetics of two uncharged derivatized sugars, one permeable and one impermeable, through a validated connexin26 (Cx26) channel structural model, using molecular dynamics and associated analytic tools. The system is a Cx26 channel equilibrated in explicit membrane/solvent, shown by Brownian dynamics to reproduce key conductance characteristics of the native channel. The results are consistent with the known difference in permeability to each molecule. The energetic barriers extend through most of the pore length, rather than being highly localized as in ion-specific channels. There is little evidence for binding within the pore. Force decomposition reveals how, for each tested molecule, interactions with water and the Cx26 protein vary over the length of the pore and reveals a significant contribution from hydrogen bonding and interaction with K(+). The flexibility of the pore width varies along its length, and the tested molecules have differential effects on pore width as they pass through. Potential sites of interaction within the pore are defined for each molecule. The results suggest that for the tested molecules, differences in hydrogen bonding and entropic factors arising from permeant flexibility substantially contribute to the energetics of permeation. This work highlights factors involved in selective molecular permeation that differ from those that define selectivity among atomic ions.
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Abstract
Fifty years ago, tumour cells were found to lack electrical coupling, leading to the hypothesis that loss of direct intercellular communication is commonly associated with cancer onset and progression. Subsequent studies linked this phenomenon to gap junctions composed of connexin proteins. Although many studies support the notion that connexins are tumour suppressors, recent evidence suggests that, in some tumour types, they may facilitate specific stages of tumour progression through both junctional and non-junctional signalling pathways. This Timeline article highlights the milestones connecting gap junctions to cancer, and underscores important unanswered questions, controversies and therapeutic opportunities in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
| | - Marc Mesnil
- STIM Laboratory ERL 7368 CNRS - Faculté des Sciences
Fondamentales et Appliquées, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers,
France
| | - Christian C. Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, The Life
Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul D. Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research
Center, Seattle, United States
| | - Dale W. Laird
- (Co-corresponding authors) Correspondence to
T.A. () and D.W.L.
()
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43
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Kim YJ, Kim J, Kim YS, Shin B, Choo OS, Lee JJ, Choung YH. Connexin 43 Acts as a Proapoptotic Modulator in Cisplatin-Induced Auditory Cell Death. Antioxid Redox Signal 2016; 25:623-636. [PMID: 27122099 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2015.6412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Gap junction coupling is known to play a role in intercellular communication by the Good Samaritan effect or bystander effect. Nonjunctional connexins (Cxs) may also play certain gap junction-independent roles in cell death or survival. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of junctional and nonjunctional Cxs in ototoxic drug-induced auditory cell death by focusing on Cx43 in the cochlea. RESULTS Nonjunctional Cx43 conditions were prepared by low confluence culture (5 × 103/cm2) or a trafficking inhibitor, brefeldin A (BFA), in auditory cells, and short lengthened Cx43s with amino-terminal (NT; amino acids 1-256) or carboxy-terminal (CT; amino acids 257-382) were transfected into Cx-deficient HeLa cells to avoid gap junction formation. Knockdown of nonchannel Cx43 (small interfering RNA [siRNA]) inhibited Cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (cisplatin)-induced cell death regardless of gap junction formation; however, a gap junction blocker, 18 alpha-glycyrrhetinic acid (18α-GA), showed inhibitory effect only under the junctional condition. BFA did not show any additive influence on the inhibitory effect of siRNA Cx43. Shortened Cx43-transfected HeLa cells also resulted in a significant increase in cell death under cisplatin. In the animal studies with cisplatin-treated rats, hearing thresholds of auditory brainstem response were significantly preserved by a gap junction blocker, carbenoxolone, showing much more preserved stereocilia of hair cells in scanning electron microscopic findings. Innovation and Conclusion: Cx43 plays a proapoptotic role in cisplatin-induced auditory cell death in both junctional and nonjunctional conditions. Targeting the Cx-mediated signaling control may be helpful in designing new therapeutic strategies for drug-induced ototoxicity. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 25, 623-636.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon Ju Kim
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jangho Kim
- 2 Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University , Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sun Kim
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Beomyong Shin
- 3 Department of Medical Sciences, The Graduate School, Ajou University , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Oak-Sung Choo
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Joo Lee
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Hoon Choung
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology, Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon, Republic of Korea.,3 Department of Medical Sciences, The Graduate School, Ajou University , Suwon, Republic of Korea
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44
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Zhu Y, Gao Y, Tao C, Shao M, Zhao S, Huang W, Yao T, Johnson JA, Liu T, Cypess AM, Gupta O, Holland WL, Gupta RK, Spray DC, Tanowitz HB, Cao L, Lynes MD, Tseng YH, Elmquist JK, Williams KW, Lin HV, Scherer PE. Connexin 43 Mediates White Adipose Tissue Beiging by Facilitating the Propagation of Sympathetic Neuronal Signals. Cell Metab 2016; 24:420-433. [PMID: 27626200 PMCID: PMC5024720 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
"Beige" adipocytes reside in white adipose tissue (WAT) and dissipate energy as heat. Several studies have shown that cold temperature can activate pro-opiomelanocortin-expressing (POMC) neurons and increase sympathetic neuronal tone to regulate WAT beiging. WAT, however, is traditionally known to be sparsely innervated. Details regarding the neuronal innervation and, more importantly, the propagation of the signal within the population of "beige" adipocytes are sparse. Here, we demonstrate that beige adipocytes display an increased cell-to-cell coupling via connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junction channels. Blocking of Cx43 channels by 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid decreases POMC-activation-induced adipose tissue beiging. Adipocyte-specific deletion of Cx43 reduces WAT beiging to a level similar to that observed in denervated fat pads. In contrast, overexpression of Cx43 is sufficient to promote beiging even with mild cold stimuli. These data reveal the importance of cell-to-cell communication, effective in cold-induced WAT beiging, for the propagation of limited neuronal inputs in adipose tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhu
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Yong Gao
- Division of Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; National Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, People's Republic of China
| | - Caroline Tao
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Mengle Shao
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shangang Zhao
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ting Yao
- Division of Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 76 West Yanta Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Joshua A Johnson
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Tiemin Liu
- Division of Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Aaron M Cypess
- Translational Physiology Section, Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Olga Gupta
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - William L Holland
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Rana K Gupta
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - David C Spray
- Departments of Neuroscience and Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Herbert B Tanowitz
- Departments of Pathology and Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Matthew D Lynes
- Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Yu-Hua Tseng
- Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Joel K Elmquist
- Division of Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Kevin W Williams
- Division of Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Hua V Lin
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA
| | - Philipp E Scherer
- Touchstone Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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45
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Computational simulations of asymmetric fluxes of large molecules through gap junction channel pores. J Theor Biol 2016; 412:61-73. [PMID: 27590324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2016.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction channels are formed out of connexin isoforms, which enable molecule and ion selective diffusion amongst neighboring cells. HeLa cells expressing distinct connexins (Cx) allow the formation of heterotypic channels, where we observed a molecular charge-independent preferential flux of large fluorescent molecules in the Cx45 to Cx43 direction. We hypothesize that the pore's shape is a significant factor along-side charge and transjunctional voltages for this asymmetric flux. To test this hypothesis, we developed a 3D computational model simulating Brownian diffusion of large molecules in a gap junction channel pore. The basic pore contour was derived from x-ray crystallographic structures of Cx43 and Cx26 and approximated using basic geometric shapes. Lucifer yellow dye molecules and cesium counter-ions were modeled as spheres using their respective Stokes radii. Our simulation results from simple diffusion and constant concentration gradient experiments showed that only charged particles yield asymmetric fluxes in heterotypic pores. While increasing the inner mouth size resulted in a near-quadratic rise in flux, the rise was asymptotic for outer mouth radii increase. Probability maps and average force per particle per pore section explain the asymmetric flux with variation in pore shape. Furthermore, the simulation results are in agreement with our in vitro experimental results with HeLa cells in Cx43-Cx45 heterotypic configurations. The presence of asymmetric fluxes can help us to understand effects of the molecular structure of the pore and predict potential differences in vivo.
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46
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Krzyzanowski MC, Woldemariam S, Wood JF, Chaubey AH, Brueggemann C, Bowitch A, Bethke M, L’Etoile ND, Ferkey DM. Aversive Behavior in the Nematode C. elegans Is Modulated by cGMP and a Neuronal Gap Junction Network. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006153. [PMID: 27459302 PMCID: PMC4961389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
All animals rely on their ability to sense and respond to their environment to survive. However, the suitability of a behavioral response is context-dependent, and must reflect both an animal's life history and its present internal state. Based on the integration of these variables, an animal's needs can be prioritized to optimize survival strategies. Nociceptive sensory systems detect harmful stimuli and allow for the initiation of protective behavioral responses. The polymodal ASH sensory neurons are the primary nociceptors in C. elegans. We show here that the guanylyl cyclase ODR-1 functions non-cell-autonomously to downregulate ASH-mediated aversive behaviors and that ectopic cGMP generation in ASH is sufficient to dampen ASH sensitivity. We define a gap junction neural network that regulates nociception and propose that decentralized regulation of ASH signaling can allow for rapid correlation between an animal's internal state and its behavioral output, lending modulatory flexibility to this hard-wired nociceptive neural circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C. Krzyzanowski
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Sarah Woldemariam
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jordan F. Wood
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Aditi H. Chaubey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Chantal Brueggemann
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Alexander Bowitch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Mary Bethke
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Noelle D. L’Etoile
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Denise M. Ferkey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
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47
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Abstract
cGMP controls many cellular functions ranging from growth, viability, and differentiation to contractility, secretion, and ion transport. The mammalian genome encodes seven transmembrane guanylyl cyclases (GCs), GC-A to GC-G, which mainly modulate submembrane cGMP microdomains. These GCs share a unique topology comprising an extracellular domain, a short transmembrane region, and an intracellular COOH-terminal catalytic (cGMP synthesizing) region. GC-A mediates the endocrine effects of atrial and B-type natriuretic peptides regulating arterial blood pressure/volume and energy balance. GC-B is activated by C-type natriuretic peptide, stimulating endochondral ossification in autocrine way. GC-C mediates the paracrine effects of guanylins on intestinal ion transport and epithelial turnover. GC-E and GC-F are expressed in photoreceptor cells of the retina, and their activation by intracellular Ca(2+)-regulated proteins is essential for vision. Finally, in the rodent system two olfactorial GCs, GC-D and GC-G, are activated by low concentrations of CO2and by peptidergic (guanylins) and nonpeptidergic odorants as well as by coolness, which has implications for social behaviors. In the past years advances in human and mouse genetics as well as the development of sensitive biosensors monitoring the spatiotemporal dynamics of cGMP in living cells have provided novel relevant information about this receptor family. This increased our understanding of the mechanisms of signal transduction, regulation, and (dys)function of the membrane GCs, clarified their relevance for genetic and acquired diseases and, importantly, has revealed novel targets for therapies. The present review aims to illustrate these different features of membrane GCs and the main open questions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Kuhn
- Institute of Physiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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48
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Gupta A, Anderson H, Buo AM, Moorer MC, Ren M, Stains JP. Communication of cAMP by connexin43 gap junctions regulates osteoblast signaling and gene expression. Cell Signal 2016; 28:1048-57. [PMID: 27156839 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) containing gap junctions play an important role in bone homeostasis, yet little is known about the second messengers communicated by Cx43 among bone cells. Here, we used MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts and UMR106 rat osteosarcoma cells to test the hypothesis that cAMP is a second messenger communicated by bone cells through Cx43 containing gap junctions in a manner that is sufficient to impact osteoblast function. Overexpression of Cx43 markedly enhanced the activity of a cAMP-response element driven transcriptional luciferase reporter (CRE-luc) and increased phospho-CREB and phospho-ERK1/2 levels following expression of a constitutively active Gsα or by treatment with prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), 3-Isobutyl-1-methyl xanthine (IBMX) or forskolin. The Cx43-dependent potentiation of signaling in PGE2 treated cells was not accompanied by a further increase in cAMP levels, suggesting that the cAMP was shared between cells rather than Cx43 enhancing cAMP production. To support this, we developed a novel assay in which one set of cells expressing constitutively active Gsα (donor cells) were co-cultured with a second set of cells expressing a CRE-luc reporter (acceptor cells). Using this assay, activation of a CRE-luc reporter in the acceptor cells was both Cx43- and cell contact-dependent, indicating communication of cAMP among cells. Finally, we showed that Cx43 increased the cAMP-dependent mRNA expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) and enhanced the repression of the sclerostin mRNA, implying a potential mechanism for the modulation of tissue remodeling. In total, these data demonstrate that Cx43 can communicate cAMP between cells and, more importantly, that the communicated cAMP is sufficient to impact signal transduction cascades and the expression of key bone effector molecules between interconnected cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Gupta
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hidayah Anderson
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Atum M Buo
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Megan C Moorer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Margaret Ren
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joseph P Stains
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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49
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Electroporation Loading and Dye Transfer: A Safe and Robust Method to Probe Gap Junctional Coupling. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1437:155-69. [PMID: 27207293 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3664-9_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular communication occurring via gap junction channels is considered a key mechanism for synchronizing physiological functions of cells and for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Gap junction channels are protein channels that are situated between neighboring cells and that provide a direct, yet selective route for the passage of small hydrophilic biomolecules and ions. Here, an electroporation method is described to load a localized area within an adherent cell monolayer with a gap junction-permeable fluorescent reporter dye. The technique results in a rapid and efficient labeling of a small patch of cells within the cell culture, without affecting cellular viability. Dynamic and quantitative information on gap junctional communication can subsequently be extracted by tracing the intercellular movement of the dye via time-lapse microscopy.
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50
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Santa Cruz A, Meşe G, Valiuniene L, Brink PR, White TW, Valiunas V. Altered conductance and permeability of Cx40 mutations associated with atrial fibrillation. J Gen Physiol 2015; 146:387-98. [PMID: 26503720 PMCID: PMC4621748 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201511475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions ensure the rapid propagation of the action potential throughout the myocardium. Three mutant forms of connexin40 (Cx40; A96S, M163V, and G38D), the primary component of the atrial gap junction channel, are associated with atrial fibrillation and retain the ability to form functional channels. We determined the biophysical properties of these mutant gap junctions in transiently transfected HeLa and N2A cells. All three mutants showed macroscopic junctional conductances over the range of 0.5 to 40 nS, and voltage dependences comparable to those of wild-type (WT) Cx40. However, the unitary conductance of G38D channels was ∼1.6-fold higher than that of WT Cx40 channels (∼220 vs. ∼135 pS), whereas the unitary conductances of the A96S and M163V mutants were similar to that of WT Cx40. Furthermore, the M163V and G38D channels exhibited approximately two- and approximately fivefold higher permeability to the anionic dye Lucifer yellow (LY) relative to K+ (LY/K+) compared with that of WT Cx40, whereas A96S LY transfer was similar to that of WT (G38D > M163V > A96S ≈ Cx40WT). In contrast, G38D channels were almost impermeable to cationic ethidium bromide (EtBr), suggesting that G38D alters channel selectivity. Conversely, A96S and M163V channels showed enhanced EtBr permeability relative to WT Cx40, with the following permeability order: M163V > A96S > Cx40WT > G38D. Altered conductive and permeability properties of mutant channels suggest an essential role for Cx40-mediated biochemical and electrical coupling in cardiac tissues. The altered properties of the three single-base substitution mutants may play a role in mechanisms of reentry arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Santa Cruz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Gülistan Meşe
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Laima Valiuniene
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Peter R Brink
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
| | - Virginijus Valiunas
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11792
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