Cyclic AMP-induced chloride permeability in the apical membrane of Necturus gallbladder epithelium

Is the second sodium pump electrogenic?

Transepithelial sodium transport is a process that involves active Na⁺ transport at the basolateral membrane of the epithelial cell. This process is mediated by the Na⁺/K⁺ pump, which exchanges 3 internal Na⁺ by 2 external K⁺ inducing a net charge movement and the second Na⁺ pump, which transports Na⁺ accompanied by Cl⁻ and water. It has been suggested that this pump could also be electrogenic. Herein, we evaluated, in MDCK cells, the short-circuit current (I_sc) generated by these Na⁺ pumps at the basolateral membrane of the epithelial cells, using amphotericin B as an apical permeabilizing agent. In Cl⁻-containing media, I_sc induced by amphotericin B is totally inhibited by ouabain, indicating that only the electrogenic Na⁺/K⁺ pump is detectable in the presence of Cl⁻. Electrogenicity of the second Na⁺ pump can be demonstrated in Cl⁻-free media. The existence of a furosemide-sensitive component of I_sc, in addition to an ouabain-sensitive one, was identified in absence of chloride. Passive Cl⁻ movement associated with the function of the second Na⁺ pump seems to be regulated by the pump itself. These results demonstrate that the second Na⁺ pump is an electroneutral mechanism result from the stoichiometric movement of Na⁺ and Cl⁻ across the basolateral plasma membrane of the epithelial cell.

Electrogenic bicarbonate secretion by prairie dog gallbladder

Pathological rates of gallbladder salt and water transport may promote the formation of cholesterol gallstones. Because prairie dogs are widely used as a model of this event, we characterized gallbladder ion transport in animals fed control chow by using electrophysiology, ion substitution, pharmacology, isotopic fluxes, impedance analysis, and molecular biology. In contrast to the electroneutral properties of rabbit and Necturus gallbladders, prairie dog gallbladders generated significant short-circuit current (I(sc); 171 +/- 21 microA/cm(2)) and lumen-negative potential difference (-10.1 +/- 1.2 mV) under basal conditions. Unidirectional radioisotopic fluxes demonstrated electroneutral NaCl absorption, whereas the residual net ion flux corresponded to I(sc). In response to 2 microM forskolin, I(sc) exceeded 270 microA/cm(2), and impedance estimates of the apical membrane resistance decreased from 200 Omega.cm(2) to 13 Omega.cm(2). The forskolin-induced I(sc) was dependent on extracellular HCO(3)(-) and was blocked by serosal 4,4'-dinitrostilben-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DNDS) and acetazolamide, whereas serosal bumetanide and Cl(-) ion substitution had little effect. Serosal trans-6-cyano-4-(N-ethylsulfonyl-N-methylamino)-3-hydroxy-2,2-dimethyl-chroman and Ba(2+) reduced I(sc), consistent with the inhibition of cAMP-dependent K(+) channels. Immunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy localized cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein (CFTR) to the apical membrane and subapical vesicles. Consistent with serosal DNDS sensitivity, pancreatic sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter protein pNBC1 expression was localized to the basolateral membrane. We conclude that prairie dog gallbladders secrete bicarbonate through cAMP-dependent apical CFTR anion channels. Basolateral HCO(3)(-) entry is mediated by DNDS-sensitive pNBC1, and the driving force for apical anion secretion is provided by K(+) channel activation.

Inhibition of ENaC by intracellular Cl- in an MDCK clone with high ENaC expression

We examined the effects of intracellular Cl- concentration ([Cl-]i) on the epithelial Na channel (ENaC) in a line of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells (FL-MDCK) with a high rate of Na+ transport produced by stable retroviral transfection with rENaC subunits (Morris RG and Schafer JA. J Gen Physiol 120: 71-85, 2002). Treatment with cAMP (100 microM 8-cpt-cAMP plus 100 microM IBMX) stimulated ENaC-mediated Na+ absorption as well as Cl- secretion via cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, which was characterized in alpha-toxin-permeabilized monolayers to have the anion selectivity sequence NO3- > Br- > Cl- > I-. With the use of FL-MDCK monolayers in which the basolateral membrane was permeabilized by nystatin, the ENaC conductance of the apical membrane [determined from the amiloride-sensitive short-circuit current (AS-Isc) driven by an apical-to-basolateral Na+ concentration gradient] was progressively inhibited by increasing the [Cl-] in the basolateral solution (and hence in the cytosol), but it was insensitive to the [Cl-] in the apical solution. This inhibitory effect of [Cl-]i occurred regardless of the presence or absence of net Cl- transport. However, from fluorometric measurements using the Cl(-)-sensitive dye 6-methoxy-N-(3-sulfopropyl)-quinolinium in intact FL-MDCK monolayers on permeable supports, cAMP, which activates both Na+ absorption and Cl- secretion, produced a decrease of [Cl-]i from 76 +/- 14 to 36 +/- 8 mM (P = 0.03). Thus it might be expected that activation of Cl- secretion by cAMP would lead to stimulation rather than inhibition of ENaC. In the nystatin-treated monolayers, an increase in [Cl-]i from 15 to 145 mM decreased AS-Isc from 24.5 +/- 1.0 to 10.2 +/- 1.6 microA/cm2. This inhibition of ENaC could be attributed to nearly proportional decreases in the density of ENaC in the apical membrane from 1.91 +/- 0.16 to 1.32 +/- 0.17 fmol/cm2 and in the intrinsic channel activity (the average current per ENaC subunit) from 13.3 +/- 1.2 to 8.2 +/- 1.4 microA/fmol.

Sucrase-isomaltase is an adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate-dependent epithelial chloride channel

BACKGROUND & AIMS

We previously isolated a monoclonal antibody against a Necturus gallbladder epitope that blocks native adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent chloride channels in intestine, gallbladder, urinary bladder, and airway epithelia in various animals.

METHODS

Using this antibody, we purified a 200-kilodalton protein that, when reconstituted in lipid bilayers, forms 9-pS chloride channels that are blocked by the antibody.

RESULTS

Amino acid sequencing of the purified protein showed strong homology to rabbit sucrase-isomaltase, an abundant intestinal enzyme. Western blot analysis of the in vitro-translated sucrase-isomaltase was indistinguishable from that of the protein used in the lipid bilayer studies. Expression of this protein in Chinese hamster ovary cells and in Xenopus laevis oocytes yielded cAMP-dependent chloride currents that in the latter system were blocked by the antibody.

CONCLUSIONS

Because the monoclonal antibody blocks cAMP-dependent currents in epithelia as well as those produced both by the reconstituted and by the heterologously expressed protein, sucrase-isomaltase is a cAMP-dependent epithelial chloride channel. Thus an enzyme that can also function as an ion channel has been described for the first time.

Effect of HCO(3)(-) on TPA- and IBMX-induced anion conductances in Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells

Effects of HCO(3)(-) on protein kinase C (PKC)- and protein kinase A (PKA)-induced anion conductances were investigated in Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells. In HCO(3)(-)-free media, activation of PKC via 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) depolarized apical membrane potential (V(a)) and decreased fractional apical voltage ratio (F(R)). These effects were blocked by mucosal 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB), a Cl(-) channel blocker. In HCO(3)(-) media, TPA induced significantly greater changes in V(a) and F(R). These effects were blocked only when NPPB was present in both mucosal and basolateral compartments. The data suggest that TPA activates NPPB-sensitive apical Cl(-) conductance (g(Cl)(a)) in the absence of HCO(3)(-); in its presence, TPA stimulated both NPPB-sensitive g(Cl)(a) and basolateral Cl(-) conductance (g(Cl)(b)). Activation of PKA via 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) also decreased V(a) and F(R); however, these changes were not affected by external HCO(3)(-). We conclude that HCO(3)(-) modulates the effects of PKC on g(Cl)(b). In HCO(3)(-) medium, TPA and IBMX also induced an initial transient hyperpolarization and increase in intracellular pH. Because these changes were independent of mucosal Na(+) and Cl(-), it is suggested that TPA and IBMX induce a transient increase in apical HCO(3)(-) conductance.

Endogenous prostaglandins modulate chloride secretion by prairie dog gallbladder

In addition to concentrating bile, the gallbladder secretes chloride (Cl-) and mucus into its lumen. We recently observed that gallbladder Cl- secretion is increased in prairie dogs during the formation of cholesterol crystals, a period of altered mucosal prostaglandin synthesis. Pathologic Cl- secretion is characteristic of other epithelial disorders such as cystic fibrosis and hypercalciuric nephrolithiasis and may be important in gallstone pathogenesis. We hypothesized that concentrations of endogenous prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) found during experimental gallstone formation may mediate increased Cl- secretion by prairie dog gallbladder. Prairie dog gallbladders were harvested by cholecystectomy and mounted in Ussing chambers. Unidirectional transepithelial Cl-, Na+, and H20 fluxes were measured before and after inhibition of endogenous prostaglandin synthesis with 10 micromol/L indomethacin. Gallbladders were then exposed to increasing concentrations of PGE2 to a maximal dose of 1 micromol/L, as found in animals with gallstones. Standard electrophysiologic parameters were recorded simultaneously. Indomethacin increased mucosal resistance and stimulated gallbladder Na+ and Cl- absorption. These effects were rapidly reversed by PGE2. PGE2 promoted Cl- secretion and decreased mucosal Na+ absorption at concentrations found in the gallbladder bile of animals with gallstones. Endogenous prostaglandin metabolism modulates gallbladder Cl- secretion and may promote changes in Cl- transport associated with cholelithiasis.

Biochemical and morphological correlations in human gallbladder with reference to membrane permeability

There is good evidence that gallbladder epithelium is permeable to a diverse range of molecules which move into the epithelial cell from the lumen or the basement membrane. Morphological investigations have shown both secretory mucous droplets, components of the endocytosis pathway together with evidence of a system allowing passage of molecules across the basement membrane. This indicates that the gallbladder epithelium may be influenced by molecules presented via the apical and basal membranes, complicating our understanding of gallbladder function, particularly in disease. Gallbladder disease increases the proteoglycan content of the basement membrane, but the implication of this in terms of permeability remains to be defined. Indeed, it remains unknown whether this precedes disease or is a manifestation of the disease process. The removal of water from hepatic bile by gallbladder involves two counter ion transport systems. Autoradiography shows that ion transport occurs into the lateral intracellular spaces but it remains unclear whether this leads to a hypertonic solution in these spaces causing an osmotically driven water absorption or if the process involves an osmotically linked isotonic secretion. These ion pumps are reversible, for water is absorbed during the interdigestive phase but fluid is secreted into the lumen during digestion or in the presence of disease. Appropriate neural stimulation can increase or decrease fluid absorption from the lumen while vasoactive intestinal peptide or secretin promote fluid secretion, probably mediated by prostaglandins leading to raised cyclic AMP acting at the cellular level. Immediate control may depend on intracellular Ca2+ which activates a calmodulin-protein kinase, phosphorylating the counter ion transporters to downregulate their activity. Failure of this regulatory process may explain the initial increase in bile concentrating potential seen in the development of gallstones although the mechanism of such failure remains unknown. More concentrated bile increases movement of biliary compounds into gallbladder epithelial cells which alter gallbladder function in a complex manner. Secondary bile acids are raised in gallstone disease and increase permeability of the gallbladder epithelium to molecules including cholesterol. This cholesterol absorbed from the lumen may have paramount importance to gallbladder function. Raised biliary cholesterol reduces gallbladder motility, possibly by increasing the amount of cholesterol in gallbladder muscle membranes and reducing contraction in response to cholecystokinin. However, increased secondary bile acids are also associated with an alteration in phospholipid acyl groups which may alter ion transport activity and/or cholesterol solubility within the micelle/vesicle. As the acyl groups show increased arachidonate levels the production of prostaglandins could be raised, although currently it is not known if this phospholipid arachidonate enters the epithelial cells. In addition, gallbladder inflammation is associated with raised phospholipase A2 activity, leading to formation of fatty acids and lysophospholipid which causes membrane damage. The fatty acids are likely to displace cholesterol from the micelle but may also act directly on the epithelium, possibly increasing prostaglandin production and thus stimulating mucin secretion. Increased mucin secretion is seen early in gallstone disease but the evidence presently available cannot determine if this is a causative factor.

Cell swelling activates the K+ conductance and inhibits the Cl- conductance of the basolateral membrane of cells from a leaky epithelium

Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells bathed in 10 mM HCO3/1% CO2 display sizable basolateral membrane conductances for Cl- (GClb) and K+ (GKb). Lowering the osmolality of the apical bathing solution hyperpolarized both apical and basolateral membranes and increased the K+/Cl- selectivity of the basolateral membrane. Hyperosmotic solutions had the opposite effects. Intracellular free-calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) increased transiently during hyposmotic swelling (peak at approximately 30 s, return to baseline within approximately 90 s), but chelation of cell Ca2+ did not prevent the membrane hyperpolarization elicited by the hyposmotic solution. Cable analysis experiments showed that the electrical resistance of the basolateral membrane decreased during hyposmotic swelling and increased during hyperosmotic shrinkage, whereas the apical membrane resistance was unchanged in hyposmotic solution and decreased in hyperosmotic solution. We assessed changes in cell volume in the epithelium by measuring changes in the intracellular concentration of an impermeant cation (tetramethylammonium), and in isolated polarized cells measuring changes in intracellular calcein fluorescence, and observed that these epithelial cells do not undergo measurable volume regulation over 10-12 min after osmotic swelling. Depolarization of the basolateral membrane voltage (Vcs) produced a significant increase in the change in Vcs elicited by lowering basolateral solution [Cl-], whereas hyperpolarization of Vcs had the opposite effect. These results suggest that: (a) Hyposmotic swelling increases GKb and decreases GClb. These two effects appear to be linked, i.e., the increase in GKb produces membrane hyperpolarization, which in turn reduces GClb. (b) Hyperosmotic shrinkage has the opposite effects on GKb and GClb. (c) Cell swelling causes a transient increase in [Ca2+]i, but this response may not be necessary for the increase in GKb during cell swelling.

Hydrochlorothiazide action on the apical Cl-, Ca2+ and K+ conductances in rabbit gallbladder epithelium. Presence of an apamin-sensitive, Ca(2+)-activated K+ conductance

In the rabbit gallbladder epithelium, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) was shown to inhibit the transepithelial NaCl transport and the apical Na(+)-Cl- symport, to depolarize the apical membrane potential and to enhance the cell-to-lumen Cl- backflux (radiochemically measured), this increase being SITS-sensitive. To better investigate the causes of the depolarization and the Cl- backflux increase, cells were punctured with conventional microelectrodes on the luminal side (incubation in bicarbonate-free saline at 27 degrees C) and the apical membrane potential (Vm) was studied either with prolonged single impalements or with a set of short multiple impalements. The maximal depolarization was of 3-4 mV and was reached with 2.5 x 10(-4) M HCTZ. It was significantly enhanced by reducing luminal Cl- concentration to 30 mM; it was abolished by SCN-, furosemide, SITS; it was insensitive to DPC. SITS converted the depolarization into a hyperpolarization of about 4 mV; this latter was apamin, nifedipine and verapamil sensitive. It was concluded that HCTZ concomitantly opens apical Cl- and (probably) Ca2+ conductances and, indirectly, a Ca(2+)-sensitive, apamin inhibitable K+ conductance: since the intracellular Cl- activity is maintained above the value predicted at the electrochemical equilibrium, the opening of the apical Cl- conductance depolarizes Vm and enhances Cl- backflux. In the presence of apamin or verapamil, to avoid the hyperpolarizing effects due to HCTZ, the depolarization elicited by this drug was fully developed (7-10 mV) and proved to be Ca2+ insensitive. On this basis and measuring the transepithelial resistance and the apical/basolateral resistance ratio, the Cl- conductance opened by HCTZ has been estimated and the Cl- backflux increase calculate: it proved to be in the order of that observed radiochemically. The importance of this Cl- leak to the lumen in the overall inhibition of the transepithelial NaCl transport by HCTZ has been evaluated.

Octreotide promotes gallbladder absorption in prairie dogs: a potential cause of gallstones

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Gallstone formation during octreotide administration has been causally linked to increased biliary concentrations of calcium, protein, and total lipids, all purported prolithogenic factors. These changes may be caused by octreotide-induced gallbladder stasis or a direct effect of octreotide on gallbladder absorption. We tested the hypothesis that octreotide stimulates gallbladder ion and water transport.

METHODS

Prairie dog gallbladders were mounted in Ussing chambers and bathed in oxygenated Ringer's solution. Electrophysiological parameters were recorded, and unidirectional Na+, Cl-, and H2O fluxes were measured before and after serosal exposure to 50 nmol/L octreotide.

RESULTS

Octreotide exposure caused a significant decrease in transepithelial short-circuit current and potential difference and an increase in tissue resistance compared with baseline. These alterations in electrophysiological parameters coincided with changes in ion transport. Octreotide stimulated net Na+ and H2O absorption and converted the gallbladder from a state of Cl- secretion to one of Cl- absorption by increasing mucosal to serosal fluxes. Octreotide effects on ion transport were blocked by 4,4'-diisothiocynostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid and amiloride and reversed by theophylline.

CONCLUSIONS

Octreotide may promote gallstone formation by inducing gallbladder stasis and by directly increasing gallbladder absorption, which may act synergistically to increase the concentration of prolithogenic factors in bile and to facilitate nucleation and stone growth.

Calcium is not involved in the cAMP-mediated stimulation of Cl- conductance in the apical membrane of Necturus gallbladder epithelium

The permeability properties of the forskolin-stimulated Cl- conductance in the apical membrane of Necturus gallbladder epithelium and the possible participation of intracellular Ca2+ in its stimulation have been investigated. The anion selectivity sequence as derived from biionic potential measurements (SCN- > I- approximately NO3- > Br- > Cl- >> ISE-) differed from the sequence derived from measurements of apical membrane resistance (NO3- approximately Br- approximately Cl- > SCN- > I- approximately ISE-). Accordingly, the conductance was inhibited by SCN- and I- which, from the potential measurements, appeared to be more permeable than Cl-. This finding agrees with observations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl- channel reported recently. However, none of the commonly used Cl- channel blockers, such as 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoic acid (NPPB), 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (DIDS), anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (9-AC) and glibenclamide reduced this conductance in Necturus gallbladder. In contrast to the situation in most other epithelia, elevation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) by ionomycin stimulated only K+ conductance and not that of Cl- in the apical cell membrane. Chelation of intracellular Ca2+ did not prevent the stimulation of Cl- conductance by forskolin. This indicates that [Ca2+]i does not have even a permissive role in the cyclic adenosine monophosphate-(cAMP)-mediated stimulation process, as would have been expected if exocytosis was involved. Further evidence against the involvement of exocytosis in the stimulation process came from the observation that the stimulation was not associated with an increase in apical membrane capacitance and was not suppressed by disruption of the cytoskeleton by preincubation of the tissue with cytochalasin D. The data indicate that Necturus gallbladder epithelium contains homologues of the CFTR Cl- channel which reside permanently in the apical cell membrane and which can be stimulated by a cAMP-dependent phosphorylation process without involvement of cell Ca2+ or exocytosis.

Muscarinic stimulation of gallbladder epithelium. III. Antagonism of cAMP-mediated effects

Elevation of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels in Necturus gallbladder (NGB) epithelium activates an apical membrane Cl- conductance and decreases transepithelial fluid transport (Jv). Acetylcholine (ACh), which had no effects on Jv by itself, antagonized the electrophysiological effects of forskolin (FSK) and theophylline and the decrease in Jv produced by FSK. By itself, ACh had no effects on basal cAMP levels but antagonized the increases in cAMP induced by FSK and theophylline. ACh had no effect on phosphodiesterase activity and prevented both the electrophysiological response and the elevation in cAMP by theophylline. In conclusion, the effect of ACh is mediated by inhibition of adenylate cyclase. A pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G protein may mediate inhibition of adenylate cyclase because pretreatment with PTX prevented the reversal of the electrophysiological effects of FSK by ACh, and PTX catalyzed the ribosylation of cell membranes from NGB epithelium. ACh could have a physiological role in modulating the effects of secretagogues that act via elevation of cAMP levels.

Regulation of cAMP-activated apical membrane chloride conductance in gallbladder epithelium

Regulation of the cAMP-activated apical membrane Cl- conductance (GaCl) in Necturus gallbladder (NGB) epithelial cells was investigated with intracellular-microelectrode techniques. GaCl was increased by exposure to 8-Br-cAMP, theophylline or forskolin. Neither 8-Br-cGMP nor elevation of intracellular [Ca2+] using ionomycin had effects on GaCl or interfered with activation of GaCl by forskolin. N-(2-[methylamino]ethyl)-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide (H8), an inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), slowed but did not prevent the GaCl response to 8-Br-cAMP. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), which activates protein kinase C (PKC), stimulated GaCl but had no effects on intracellular [cAMP]. GaCl was unaffected by 4 alpha-phorbol, a PMA analog which does not activate PKC. Okadaic acid (OA), an inhibitor of protein phosphatases (PP) types 1 and 2A, slowed the activation of GaCl by 8-Br-cAMP, hastened the return of GaCl to basal values following removal of 8-Br-cAMP, and significantly reduced the elevation in intracellular [cAMP] produced by forskolin. OA had no effects on the GaCl changes elicited by theophylline. We conclude that: (a) NGB GaCl can be activated by PKA-mediated phosphorylation of apical membrane Cl- channels or a regulatory protein, (b) GaCl can also be activated via PKC, by a cAMP-independent mechanism, (c) OA-sensitive PP are not required for inactivation of GaCl; OA appears to stimulate phosphodiesterase, which lowers intracellular [cAMP] and affects GaCl activation, and (d) the apical membrane of NGB epithelium lacks a Ca(2+)-activated Cl- conductance.

Tight-junction tightness of Necturus gall bladder epithelium is not regulated by cAMP or intracellular Ca2+. II. Impedance measurements

In the preceding publication we have reported that, contrary to the prevailing opinion in the literature, the tight-junction tightness of Necturus gall bladder epithelium is not up-regulated by cAMP-mediated or by Ca(2+)-mediated stimulation. This conclusion was based on our observation that the stimulant-induced increase in transepithelial resistance (Rt) occurred only when the lateral intercellular spaces were allowed to collapse, which suggested that the increase reflected primarily or exclusively the increasing resistance of the lateral spaces (Rlis) rather than the postulated increase in tight-junction resistance (Rj). An alternative explanation could have been that the constancy of Rt after space dilatation reflected an increase Rj that was masked by a concomitant fall in apical and basolateral cell membrane resistances Ra and Rbl. To decide between those possibilities we have performed impedance measurements with transepithelial and intracellular microelectrodes on Necturus gall bladder epithelium. Applying previously developed analysis procedures, the measurements readily showed that elevation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration increased Rlis, but left Rj as well as Ra and Rbl quasi constant. Experiments with forskolin, theophylline or isobutylxanthine, on the other hand, were less clear. These stimulants activated an apical Cl- conductance, which drastically reduced Ra and apparently caused low-frequency polarization effects that could not be accounted for by the classical epithelial equivalent circuit. After elimination of the polarization phenomena by uni- or bilateral substitution of Cl- by isethionate or sulphate, however, we were able to demonstrate that Rj remains constant under cAMP-mediated stimulation irrespective of whether the lateral spaces are kept open or are allowed to collapse. We conclude that the tight-junction resistance of Necturus gall bladder epithelium is not controlled by intracellular Ca2+ or by cAMP-mediated stimulation.

Muscarinic stimulation of gallbladder epithelium. I. Electrophysiology and signaling mechanisms

To understand the effects of acetylcholine (ACh) on fluid-absorbing epithelia, we carried out experiments on Necturus gallbladder epithelium. Binding studies with 1-quinuclidinyl[phenyl-4(N)-3H]benzilate (QNB) demonstrated that Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells express high-affinity muscarinic receptors. The effects of ACh and carbachol were exerted from the basolateral surface and consisted of a transient hyperpolarization of both cell membranes and a concomitant decrease in the apparent fractional resistance of the apical membrane. Atropine blocked both effects. ACh also elicited transient elevations of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) levels, the latter by both release from intracellular stores and basolateral influx. The phospholipase C antagonist U-73122 inhibited the effects of ACh, whereas inhibition of prostaglandin and guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate synthesis with indomethacin or methylene blue, respectively, had no effect. In conclusion, Necturus gallbladder epithelium expresses muscarinic receptors in the basolateral membrane. Receptor activation stimulates phospholipase C and elevates cellular levels of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and [Ca2+]i. The elevation in [Ca2+]i activates K+ channels but apparently not Cl- channels.

Tight-junction tightness of Necturus gall bladder epithelium is not regulated by cAMP or intracellular Ca2+. I. Microscopic and general electrophysiological observations

Following the publications by Duffey et al. [Nature 294:451 (1981)] and Palant et al. [Am J Physiol 245: C203 (1983)] it is generally accepted that tight-junction tightness of Necturus gall bladder epithelium is up-regulated by cAMP-mediated and Ca(2+)-mediated stimulation. This conclusion was mainly based on observed increases in transepithelial resistance (Rt). However, since in leaky epithelia Rt cannot be simply equated with the tight junction resistance (Rj), but may include large contributions from the lateral space resistance (Rlis), we asked whether the observed increases in Rt resulted indeed from Rj or whether Rlis also increased. The experiments were performed on Necturus gall bladders using forskolin or the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 as stimulants. Forskolin (2 mumol/l) had a biphasic effect. In the first 5 min Rt decreased from 128 +/- 13 to 119 +/- 14 omega cm2 (P < 0.05, n = 10) which probably reflects stimulation of an apical cell membrane Cl- conductance (see accompanying paper). Subsequently Rt increased in approximately 30 min to 184 +/- 20 omega cm2 and then remained fairly constant. Simultaneously the lateral spaces collapsed. If the spaces were now transiently opened by passing mucosa-positive direct current across the epithelium, Rt fell transiently to 111 +/- 7 omega cm2, but returned gradually to its elevated level when the spaces collapsed again. When the spaces were constantly dilated by a serosa-positive hydrostatic pressure of 1 cm H2O, forskolin neither affected the space width nor increased Rt, and current passage was virtually ineffective, although the cells depolarized in response to forskolin as usual.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Electrogenic bicarbonate secretion in gallbladder: induction by barium via neuronal, possibly VIP-ergic pathways

In guinea-pig gallbladder epithelium, cAMP converts electroneutral HCO3- secretion into an electrogenic process. The effects of blood side Ba2+ (5 mmol/l) on HCO3- transport were investigated in vitro, using pH-stat and voltage clamp techniques to determine unidirectional fluxes of HCO3- and transepithelial electrical characteristics. Serosal, not mucosal addition of Ba2+ elevated short-circuit current (Isc), transepithelial potential difference, and tissue conductance; it inhibited the absorptive HCO3- flux while leaving the secretory flux unchanged. The Isc effect of Ba2+ was inhibited or prevented by tetrodotoxin; D- and L-propranolol; the Cl- channel blocker 4-N-methyl-N-phenylaminothiophene-3-carboxylic acid; the intracellular Ca2+ antagonist, 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid 8-(diethylamino)ocytl ester; noradrenaline, by a yohimbine-sensitive action; somatostatin; HCO3(-)-free solutions. Thus Ba2+ appeared to release a neurotransmitter that gives rise to cAMP synthesis sufficient to turn part of electroneutral HCO3- secretion electrogenic. In a search for the involved signalling pathways, the H1-receptor antagonist, cetirizine, largely and hexamethonium, atropine, atenolol, indomethacin, and trifluoperazine entirely failed to antagonize the Isc effect of Ba2+. Similarly, carbachol, dobutamine, salbutamol, and serotonin were unable to mimic the action of Ba2+ and Isc effects of histamine were small and short-lived. By contrast, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP; 3 x 10(-7) mol/l) completely transformed HCO3- secretion into an electrogenic process. The VIP receptor antagonist (4Cl-DPhe6, Leu17) VIP, delayed and reduced the Isc responses to Ba2+ and VIP. As guinea-pig gallbladder epithelial cells possess cAMP-coupled VIP receptors close to VIPergic neurons, Ba2+ is likely to act by releasing VIP from neural terminals.

Cl- and K+ transport in human biliary cell lines

BACKGROUND

The cellular mechanisms which contribute to billing secretion and absorption are not fully defined. The purpose of these studies was to evaluate the membrane ion transport properties of Mz-ChA-1 and Sk-ChA-1 cell lines derived from human biliary tumors.

METHODS

In cultured cells, 125I and 36Cl efflux rates were used to assess membrane anion permeability, and 86Rb efflux rates were used to assess K+ permeability.

RESULTS

Sections of tumors grown on BALB/Urd mice were used for morphological evaluation and for detection of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the protein product of the cystic fibrosis gene. There was organized development of ductular structures and cells stained for gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and CK-19. Immunoperoxidase staining for CFTR, which is likely a Cl- channel, was also present. Increases in intracellular Ca2+ stimulated by exposure to ionomycin or thapsigargin increased efflux of 125I, 36Cl, and 86Rb. Efflux of 125I was greater than 36Cl, and anion efflux was inhibited by the Cl- channel blocker 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid. Increases in 5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate increased efflux of 36Cl greater than 125I but had no effect on 86Rb efflux. Both cell lines possess bumetanide-sensitive 86Rb uptake consistent with possible Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransport.

CONCLUSIONS

These human cell lines retain certain phenotypic features of differentiated biliary cells and may be useful for further investigation of biliary fluid and electrolyte transport.

Reconstitution and regulation of an epithelial chloride channel

We have used a monoclonal antibody (MAb E12), one of several such antibodies raised against theophylline-treated Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells, to isolate a chloride channel protein by the use of an immunoaffinity column and FPLC. This protein (M(r) 219,000) has been reconstituted into a planar lipid bilayer, where it behaves as a chloride-selective channel (PCl/PNa = 20.2; PNa/PK = 1) whose unit conductance is 62.4 +/- 4.6 pS. Antibody added to the trans side (there is no effect from the cis side) causes channel open probability to drop to virtually zero, but has no effect on the conductance or the selectivity of single channels. To test the role of phosphorylation in the activity of the native channel, we studied the effects of the protein phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid (OA) on intact gallbladders, and showed that channels opened by theophylline treatment and closed by antibody are reopened reversibly by OA (0.01-1.0 microM). Addition of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP-2A) to the cis side of a bilayer containing reconstituted chloride channels caused closure of the channels after a delay, and subsequent addition of ATP and the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) caused immediate reopening. These data indicate that (a) this chloride channel protein inserts in a directed way into the bilayer such that the cis side is 'intracellular', (b) the purified channel protein is phosphorylated, and (c) gating from the cellular side is controlled by the direct phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the channel protein.

Altered membrane ionic permeability in a rat model of chronic renal failure

Acute elevations in intracellular adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) concentrations are known to increase ionic chloride permeability in diverse tissues. To determine if chronic endogenous increases in cAMP are associated with sustained alterations in membrane ionic permeabilities, renal cortical brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) were prepared and red blood cells were harvested in a model of chronic renal failure, the 75% nephrectomized rat. Relative ionic permeabilities were determined using the potential-sensitive fluorescent probe 3,3'-dipropylthiadicarbocyanine iodide [diS-C3-(5)]. These studies demonstrate that renal cortical homogenate and RBC cAMP concentrations are increased in chronic renal failure animals. In the same animals relative ionic chloride permeability (PCl/PK) was significantly increased in renal cortical BBMV and RBC ghosts: PNa/PK was not affected. This selective change in permeability results in a significant increase in PCl/PNa and hyperpolarization of BBMV of sufficient magnitude to stimulate Na(+)-dependent glutamine transport. The change in glutamine uptake was not consequent to an alteration in the kinetics of glutamine transport or delayed dissipation of the inward Na+ gradient. Renal hypertrophy per se did not effect renal homogenate cAMP concentration or relative ionic permeability of renal cortical BBMV prepared from kidneys of uninephrectomized animals fed a 40% protein diet. These studies demonstrate that relative ionic chloride permeability and tissue [cAMP] are chronically increased in diverse cells (renal proximal tubule and RBCs) in a rat model of renal failure. These findings suggest that membrane ionic permeability may be altered and electrogenic transport secondarily perturbed in renal failure in association with hormonally-induced chronic elevations of intracellular cAMP concentrations.

Regulation of an epithelial chloride channel by direct phosphorylation and dephosphorylation

A native chloride channel in Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells is opened by a theophylline-induced rise in cellular cyclic AMP and is closed by removal of theophylline or by addition of specific antibody; however, it does not close if okadaic acid, an inhibitor of protein phosphatases 1 and 2A, is added. The purified channel reconstituted into lipid bilayers closes upon the addition of protein phosphatase 2A and is reopened by the addition of Mg-ATP and the catalytic subunit of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase. These results indicate that the channel protein is purified in a phosphorylated state and that its functional characteristics are at least partly controlled by direct phosphorylation and dephosphorylation.

Regulation of apical membrane ion transport in Necturus gallbladder

Na and Cl movement through the apical membrane of Necturus gallbladder epithelium was investigated using electrophysiological and light microscopic measurements. Changes in membrane potential difference, fractional resistance of the apical membrane, and transepithelial resistance caused by changes in apical bath Cl concentration revealed the presence of a Cl conductance in the apical membrane of control tissues that was apparently not present in the preparations studied by other investigators. This Cl conductance was blocked by bumetanide (10(-5) M) or by the inhibitor of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) action, the Rp isomer of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPS; 0.5 mM). Treatment of the tissues with Rp-cAMPS also eliminated bumetanide-sensitive cell swelling in the presence of ouabain and activated an amiloride-sensitive swelling, changes consistent with inhibition of NaCl cotransport and the activation of Na-H and Cl-HCO3 exchange. We conclude that the mode of NaCl entry into Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells is determined by the level of cAMP. When cAMP levels are high, entry occurs by NaCl cotransport; when cAMP levels are low, parallel exchange of Na-H and Cl-HCO3 predominates. These observations explain the previous disagreements about the mode of NaCl entry into Necturus gallbladder epithelial cells.

Whole cell patch clamping of ciliary epithelial cells during anisosmotic swelling

Anisosmotic cell swelling triggers a regulatory volume decrease (RVD) in cell lines derived from human nonpigmented ciliary epithelium. Measurements of cell volume have indicated that the RVD reflects activation of K+ and/or Cl- channels. We have begun to characterize the putative channels by whole cell patch clamping. The results obtained by altering the external K+ and Cl- concentrations and by adding 20-50 microM quinidine or 1 mM Ba2+ indicate that K+ conductances contribute substantially and Cl- conductances contribute very little to the total membrane conductance (GT) under baseline isotonic conditions. Reducing the external osmolality by 20-50% reversibly and reproducibly increased GT by an order of magnitude. Data obtained from ion substitutions and the channel blockers quinidine and 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoate indicate that most of the hypotonicity-induced conductance reflects stationary Cl(-)-channel activity. The contribution of new K(+)-channel activity was small at intracellular free Ca2+ concentrations of 10 or 200 nM. We conclude that the RVD triggered by bath hypotonicity primarily reflects increased Cl(-)-channel activity.

Direct evidence for a basolateral membrane Cl- conductance in toad retinal pigment epithelium

There is now evidence that a Cl- conductance on the basal membrane of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is involved in the generation of both the fast oscillation and the light peak of the direct-current electroretinogram as well as being critical for transepithelial fluid and salt movement. In the present study, we characterized the basolateral membrane Cl- conductance of an in vitro preparation of toad RPE-choroid using conventional and Cl(-)-selective microelectrodes. Under control conditions, the potential across the apical (Vap) and basal (Vba) membranes averaged -60 +/- 2 and -45 +/- 2 mV, respectively (n = 40). Intracellular Cl- activity (aiCl = 20 +/- 1 mM) was distributed above equilibrium across both membranes, consistent with active accumulation of Cl-. A sixfold decrease in Cl- in the basal bath depolarized Vba by 12 +/- 1 mV (n = 17) and increased the apparent basal membrane resistance. By sequential measurement of aiCl and subepithelial Cl- activity during a step decrease in basal Cl-, we constructed the change in Cl- equilibrium potential (ECl) across the basal membrane. Estimation of the change in basal membrane electromotive force during the change in ECl gave an average value for the Cl- transference number (TCl) of 0.45. Further evidence for a Cl- conductance was obtained by measuring changes in aiCl induced by transepithelial current. Depolarizing Vba elevated aiCl, whereas hyperpolarizing Vba had the opposite effect, consistent with conductive Cl- movement across the basal membrane. Both the amplitude of the Cl- diffusion potential and the current-induced changes in aiCl were reduced by basal perfusion with 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (250-500 microM), a blocker of Cl- channels in some epithelia.

Adenylate cyclase modulation of ion permeability in the guinea pig cochlea: a possible mechanism for the formation of endolymphatic hydrops

The pathophysiological mechanisms leading to endolymphatic hydrops in Meniere's disease are unknown. Changes in ionic permeability of the cellular membranes between the endolymph and the perilymph, which alter the composition and osmolarity of the inner ear fluid, may be a major factor in the etiology of endolymphatic hydrops. To determine the possible involvement of adenylate cyclase in the formation of endolymphatic hydrops, we measured the endolymphatic K+, Na+, Cl- activities (AK, ANa, ACl) and the endocochlear potential (EP) by means of ion-selective microelectrodes while inner ear adenylate cyclase was activated by perilymphatic perfusion with forskolin. We observed a large ACl increase accompanied by an EP increase during forskolin (2 x 10(-4) M) perfusion and a delayed AK decrease after perfusion. No measurable ANa change was observed. These results suggest that adenylate cyclase may regulate Cl- permeability of the endolymph-perilymph barrier and that adenylate cyclase plays a critical role in acute endolymphatic hydrops in Meniere's disease by altering the osmolarity of the endolymph.

Electrophysiological effects of extracellular ATP on Necturus gallbladder epithelium

The effects of addition of ATP to the mucosal bathing solution on transepithelial, apical, and basolateral membrane voltages and resistances in Necturus gallbladder epithelium were determined. Mucosal ATP (100 microM) caused a rapid hyperpolarization of both apical (Vmc) and basolateral (Vcs) cell membrane voltages (delta Vm = 18 +/- 1 mV), a fall in transepithelial resistance (Rt) from 142 +/- 8 to 122 +/- 7 omega.cm2, and a decrease in fractional apical membrane resistance (fRa) from 0.93 +/- 0.02 to 0.83 +/- 0.03. The rapid initial hyperpolarization of Vmc and Vcs was followed by a slower depolarization of cell membrane voltages and a lumen-negative change in transepithelial voltage (Vms). This phase also included an additional decrease in fRa. Removal of the ATP caused a further depolarization of membrane voltages followed by a hyperpolarization and then a return to control values. fRa fell to a minimum after removal of ATP and then returned to control values as the cell membrane voltages repolarized. Similar responses could be elicited by ADP but not by adenosine. The results of two-point cable experiments revealed that ATP induced an initial increase in cell membrane conductance followed by a decrease. Transient elevations of mucosal solution [K+] induced a larger depolarization of Vmc and Vcs during exposure to ATP than under control conditions. Reduction of mucosal solution [Cl-] induced a slow hyperpolarization of Vmc and Vcs before exposure to ATP and a rapid depolarization during exposure to ATP. We conclude that ATP4- is the active agent and that it causes a concentration-dependent increase in apical and basolateral membrane K+ permeability. In addition, an apical membrane electrodiffusive Cl- permeability is activated by ATP4-.

Effects of changes in mucosal solution Cl- or K+ concentration on cell water volume of Necturus gallbladder epithelium

An electrophysiologic technique was used to measure changes in cell water volume in response to isosmotic luminal solution ion replacement. Intracellular Cl- activity (aCl-i) was measured and net flux determined from the changes in volume and activity. Reduction of luminal solution [Cl-] from 98 to 10 mM (Cl- replaced with cyclamate) resulted in a large fall in aCl-i with no significant change in cell water volume. Elevation of luminal solution [K+] from 2.5 to 83.5 mM (K+ replaced Na+) caused a small increase in aCl-i with no change in cell water volume. Exposure of the Necturus gallbladder epithelium to agents that increase intracellular cAMP levels (forskolin and/or theophylline) induces an apical membrane electrodiffusive Cl- permeability accompanied by a fall in aCl-i and cell shrinkage. In stimulated tissues, reduction of luminal solution [Cl-] resulted in a large fall in aCl-i and rapid cell shrinkage, whereas elevation of luminal solution [K+] caused a large, rapid cell swelling with no significant change in aCl-i. The changes in cell water volume of stimulated tissues elicited by lowering luminal solution [Cl-] or by elevating luminal solution [K+] were reduced by 60 and 70%, respectively, by addition of tetraethylammonium (TEA+) to the luminal bathing solution. From these results, we conclude that: (a) In control tissues, the fall in aCl-i upon reducing luminal solution [Cl-], without concomitant cell shrinkage, indicates that the Cl- entry mechanism is electroneutral (Cl-/HCO3-) exchange. (b) Also in control tissues, the small increase in aCl-i upon elevating luminal solution [K+] is consistent with the recent demonstration of a basolateral Cl- conductance. (c) The cell shrinkage elicited by elevation of intracellular cAMP levels results from conductive loss of Cl- (and probably K+). (d) Elevation of cAMP inhibits apical membrane Cl-/HCO-3-exchange activity by 70%. (e) The cell shrinkage in response to the reduction of mucosal solution [Cl-] in stimulated tissues results from net K+ and Cl- efflux via parallel electrodiffusive pathways. (f) A major fraction of the K+ flux is via a TEA(+)-sensitive apical membrane K+ channel.

Acid-induced increase in electrical conductance of guinea pig duodenal mucosa in vitro. Temporary protection by combined effects of bicarbonate and prostaglandin E2

Electrical conductance as a sensitive indicator of acid damage has been investigated in guinea pig duodenal mucosa using Ussing-chamber techniques. Reductions of luminal pH from 7.4 to 3.0, 2.3, or 2.0 caused concentration-dependent, progressive increases in conductance, accompanied (pH 2.0) by a continuous increase in hydrogen permeation as determined by pH-stat titration. Increases in conductance and hydrogen flux were related to base-line conductance, with higher values conditioning for a sooner onset and/or more marked elevation. Conductance increases were prevented by timely back titration. Recently, it has been shown that serosal HCO3 reduces conductance by actions dependent on prostaglandins and serosal Na and sensitive to loop diuretics. Here, serosal HCO3 delayed the onset of acid-induced conductance increase by approximately 8 minutes, an effect reduced by omission of serosal Na and during exposure to serosal furosemide (10(-3) mol/L). In the presence of serosal indomethacin (10(-4) mol/L) and HCO3, prostaglandin E2 (10(-6) mol/L serosal bath) delayed the conductance increase. Because HCO3 secretion is negligible in this model, these results indicate effects of HCO3/prostaglandin E2 beyond mere buffering of invading hydrogen. These results are consistent with intracellular actions that tighten the paracellular pathway against acid and thus provide temporary protection from acid injury. In agreement with this view, HCO3 also limited conductance increases after luminal alkalinization by a furosemide-sensitive action.

Uncoupled basal sodium absorption and chloride secretion in prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) gallbladder

1. Prairie dog gallbladders mounted in a Ussing-type chamber and bathed with symmetrical Ringer's solutions exhibited a transepithelial resistance (Rt) of 51 +/- 5 omega cm2, a lumen negative potential difference (Vms) of 11.5 +/- 0.7 mV and a short-circuit current (Isc) of 6.9 +/- 0.3 microEq/hr/cm2. 2. Radioisotopic ion flux experiments revealed that the basal Isc of 6.9 +/- 0.3 microEq/hr/cm2 was mostly accounted for by net Na+ absorption of 3.2 +/- 0.5 microEq/hr/cm2 and net Cl- secretion of 2.9 +/- 0.3 microEq/hr/cm2. 3. In HCO3- free Ringer's, net Na+ flux was virtually abolished, net Cl- flux decreased by 50% and Isc was reduced by 77%. 4. 10(-3) M mucosal amiloride and DIDS reduced Isc by 28 and 24%, respectively. 5. Mucosal NaCl diffusion potentials indicated that the paracellular pathway was cation selective. 6. Thin section electron micrographs showed a single cell population in this epithelium suggesting that net Na+ absorption and Cl- secretion may emerge from the same cells. 7. We conclude that prairie dog gallbladder epithelium is an electrogenic tissue and, in contrast to gallbladders of most other species, simultaneously but independently absorbs Na+ and secretes Cl-.

[Ca2+]i modulation of Cl- content controls cell volume in single salivary acinar cells during fluid secretion

Differential interference contrast microscopy and low-light-level digital imaging of the fluorescent chloride indicator dye 6-methyl-1-(3-sulfonatopropyl)quinolinium (SPQ) were performed simultaneously in single mammalian salivary gland acinar cells to examine the relationship between cytoplasmic chloride concentration [( Cl-]i) and cell volume during stimulus-secretion coupling. Agonist stimulation of Cl(-)-driven fluid secretion is associated with rapid, Ca2(+)-dependent changes of cell volume, which are temporally coupled to changes of [Cl-]i. The agonist-induced changes in [Cl-]i, if accompanied by cations and water, quantitatively account for the cell volume changes, demonstrating in a single cell that cell volume is determined by cell solute content. Agonist-induced modulation of cell volume appears to be a consequence of the requirement to develop appropriate ion gradients necessary for vectorial salt (and fluid) transport.

Nifedipine inhibits calcium-activated K transport in human erythrocytes

The effect of nifedipine on K transport across human erythrocytes was investigated. Nifedipine had no effect on K influx mediated by the Na-K pump, Na-K-2Cl cotransport, or the passive residual K flux. However, it inhibited the K and water loss from ATP-depleted cells in the presence of external Ca (Cao). Similar inhibition of Ca-activated K [K(Ca)] efflux was observed in fresh cells exposed to Cao and A23187 or ionomycin. The inhibition was observed even when nifedipine was added after initiation of the K(Ca) efflux and was not readily reversed by washing cells with drug-free media. When K(Ca) efflux was plotted as a function of external free Ca, nifedipine reduced the maximum K(Ca) efflux but had no effect on the Ca concentration required for half-maximum K(Ca) efflux. The inhibition of K(Ca) efflux by nifedipine was not consequent to its effect on conductive Cl permeability, because valinomycin-induced K efflux in Cl media was enhanced rather than reduced by nifedipine and because the inhibition was also seen with SCN, a nonlimiting anion. Nifedipine inhibited the K(Ca) efflux with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 4 microM. The inhibitory capacity of nifedipine was reduced by increasing external K. Nifedipine reduced not only the basic conductance but also the zero-current K conductance with a Kd of 23 microM. Other Ca-channel blockers, such as verapamil and diltiazem, did not inhibit K(Ca) efflux, but other dihydropyridines, including BAY K 8644, a Ca-channel agonist, were effective in inhibiting K(Ca) efflux.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Maxi K+ channels and their relationship to the apical membrane conductance in Necturus gallbladder epithelium

Using the patch-clamp technique, we have identified large-conductance (maxi) K+ channels in the apical membrane of Necturus gallbladder epithelium, and in dissociated gallbladder epithelial cells. These channels are more than tenfold selective for K+ over Na+, and exhibit unitary conductance of approximately 200 pS in symmetric 100 mM KCl. They are activated by elevation of internal Ca2+ levels and membrane depolarization. The properties of these channels could account for the previously observed voltage and Ca2+ sensitivities of the macroscopic apical membrane conductance (Ga). Ga was determined as a function of apical membrane voltage, using intracellular microelectrode techniques. Its value was 180 microS/cm2 at the control membrane voltage of -68 mV, and increased steeply with membrane depolarization, reaching 650 microS/cm2 at -25 mV. We have related maxi K+ channel properties and Ga quantitatively, relying on the premise that at any apical membrane voltage Ga comprises a leakage conductance and a conductance due to maxi K+ channels. Comparison between Ga and maxi K+ channels reveals that the latter are present at a surface density of 0.09/microns 2, are open approximately 15% of the time under control conditions, and account for 17% of control Ga. Depolarizing the apical membrane voltage leads to a steep increase in channel steady-state open probability. When correlated with patch-clamp studies examining the Ca2+ and voltage dependencies of single maxi K+ channels, results from intracellular microelectrode experiments indicate that maxi K+ channel activity in situ is higher than predicted from the measured apical membrane voltage and estimated bulk cytosolic Ca2+ activity. Mechanisms that could account for this finding are proposed.

Transcellular bicarbonate transport in rabbit gallbladder epithelium: mechanisms and effects of cyclic AMP

HCO3 permeation through rabbit gallbladder epithelium has been investigated in vitro using voltage-clamp, pH-stat and microelectrode techniques. Mucosa-to-serosa flux of HCO3 (approximately 4.9 mumol cm-2 h-1) was dependent on luminal Na and inhibited by amiloride (1 mmol/l, luminal bath), methazolamide (0.1 mmol/l, both sides), and ouabain (30 mumol/l, serosal bath). Maximal rates of serosa-to-mucosa flux of HCO3 (approximately 2.8 mumol cm-2 h-1) required serosal Na and mucosal Cl. This flux was inhibited by ouabain, 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (1 mmol/l, serosal bath), and 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoic acid (0.1 mmol/l, luminal bath). Ineffective were methazolamide (0.1 mmol/l, both sides) and amiloride (1 mmol/l, serosal bath). 8-Br-cAMP (1 mmol/l, serosal bath) largely inhibited the absorptive and moderately stimulated the secretory flux. In tissue conductance, short-circuit current, and transmural voltage prostaglandin E1 (1 mumol/l, serosal bath) and 8-Br-cAMP caused moderate to negligible increases. No significant alterations of apical membrane potential (approximately -65 mV) and the apparent ratio of membrane resistances (Ra/Rb; approximately 1.9) were found. Cell membranes responded to luminal Cl removal mostly with a slow hyperpolarization that was mitigated by 8-Br-cAMP or, in some cases, converted into a small, transient depolarization. Our results are best explained by transcellular HCO3 transport in both directions. In secretion, basolateral HCO3 entry occurs by some form of co-transport with Na, and apical exit by Cl/HCO3 exchange. cAMP opens no major electro-diffusive pathway for apical anion efflux. In absorption, HCO3 import from the lumen into the cell is secondary to cAMP-sensitive Na/H exchange.

Effects of forskolin and 1,9-dideoxy-forskolin on cochlear potentials

Endocochlear potential (EP) and cochlear microphonics (CM) were recorded during the perilymphatic perfusion with forskolin known as an adenylate cyclase stimulant. Forskolin produced a reversible EP elevation in a dose-dependent manner. Perfusion with 1,9-dideoxy-forskolin, an analogue of forskolin that does not stimulate adenylate cyclase, had no effect on EP, whereas perfusions with other agents that raise the cAMP-level (IBMX, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and dbcAMP) duplicated the effect of forskolin. The vigorous CM during the EP elevation and the large negative EP induced by anoxia superimposed on the elevated EP indicate that the K+ diffusion potential through the hair cell membrane cannot be altered by forskolin. The results suggest that the adenylate cyclase system in the stria vascularis and/or Reissner's membrane may modulate the generation of EP.

Naloxone-insensitive transport effects of loperamide in guinea-pig gallbladder epithelium

The effects of the antidiarrheal drug, loperamide, on HCO3 and Na transport across guinea-pig gallbladder epithelium were investigated using Ussing-chamber methods. Under basal conditions, mucosal loperamide (10(-4) mol/l) moderately lowered both the absorptive (JHCO3ms) and the secretory HCO3 flux (JHCO3sm) (pH-stat method), most likely by changing paracellular HCO3 flow. Exposure to serosal prostaglandin E1 (10(-6) mol/l) abolished Na absorption and turned HCO3 secretion electrogenic. The associated short-circuit current (Isc) was inhibited by loperamide in a concentration-dependent manner; mucosal addition (threshold at 3 x 10(-6) mol/l) of the drug was more effective. Inhibition of Isc was related to a decrease in JHCO3sm, but exceeded the drop in JHCO3net. The effects on JHCO3sm and Isc were mimicked by [Met5]enkephalin. Naloxone (10(-6) mol/l) was unable to influence the effects of loperamide and [Met5]enkephalin on Isc. There were no pro-absorptive effects of loperamide on unidirectional Na fluxes. We conclude that antisecretory properties of loperamide are solely due to inhibition of electrogenic HCO3 secretion, an effect unrelated to opiate receptor binding.

Bicarbonate and DIDS effects on intracellular potential difference in rabbit ciliary epithelium

A change of [HCO3-] in the solution bathing isolated rabbit ciliary epithelium from 30 mM to 0, or vice versa, resulted in a change of intracellular electrical potential difference (PDI) of 7 mV. Intermediate [HCO3-] (5, 10 and 15 mM) solutions were also tested. No perceivable change of PDI occurred when [HCO3-] changed from 30 to 15 mM. PDI depolarized gradually when [HCO3-] decreased from 30 or 15 mM to 0 mM, but PDI hyperpolarized at a faster rate when [HCO3-] increased from 0 to 15 or 30 mM. The amount of change of PDI from 15 to 5 mM, or vice versa, and from 10 to 0 mM or vice versa, was 4 mV. The stilbene, DIDS (10(-4) M), hyperpolarized the PDI in HCO3(-)-rich solutions. The response of DIDS was reduced in HCO3(-)-free medium and inhibited in Cl(-)-free solution. The results suggest the existence of an electrogenic bicarbonate transport or Na+/HCO3- cotransport system.

Rapid decrease in electrical conductance of mammalian duodenal mucosa in vitro. Combined effects of prostaglandin E2 and bicarbonate

The effects of HCO3- on transepithelial conductance of guinea pig (and, in some experiments, rabbit) duodenum have been investigated using stripped preparations in Ussing-type chambers. Initial conductance amounted to approximately 27 mS/cm2. In the presence of serosal or bilateral HCO3- (20 mM), it fell to approximately 15 mS/cm2 within 60 min. With mucosal HCO3- or HCO3- -free solutions, conductance decreased to only approximately 23 mS/cm2. In the absence of HCO3-, serosal but not mucosal addition of HCO3- prompted a steep conductance drop that was 50% complete within 6 min. These effects were the same in proximal and distal segments, whereas conductance levels in the latter were higher. The effects of HCO3- required serosal Na+; they were partly prevented or reversed by serosal ouabain (3 x 10(-5) M), furosemide (10(-3) M), and other loop diuretics, and indomethacin (10(-5) M). Serosal addition of prostaglandin E2 (10(-7) M, followed by 10(-6) M) reduced conductance from approximately 22 to approximately 17 mS/cm2. This effect required serosal HCO3- and the presence of indomethacin. 8-Br-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (10(-3)M, serosal side) mimicked the effects of prostaglandin E2. Indomethacin and prostaglandin E2 did not influence the secretory flux of HCO3- (approximately 0.5 mumol/cm2.h, pH-stat method). Our results assign a critical role to serosal HCO3- in the maintenance of a low tissue permeability, dependent on the availability of prostaglandins (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) and involving HCO3- access to the cell rather than secretion.

Monoclonal antibodies to the apical chloride channel in Necturus gallbladder inhibit the chloride conductance

Monoclonal antibodies raised by injecting Necturus gallbladder cells into mice were tested for their ability to inhibit the apical chloride conductance induced by elevation of cellular cAMP. Five of these monoclonal antibodies bound to the apical cells, as shown by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy, and inhibited the chloride conductance; one antibody that bound only to subepithelial smooth muscle, by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy, showed no inhibition of chloride transport. The channel or a closely related molecule is present in the membrane whether or not the pathway is open, since, in addition to inhibiting the conductance of the open channel, the antibody also bound to the membrane in the resting state and prevented subsequent opening of the channel. The antibody was shown to recognize, by ELISA, epitopes from the Necturus gallbladder and small intestine. Finally, by Western blot analysis of Necturus gallbladder homogenates, the antibody was shown to recognize two protein bands of Mr 219,000 and Mr 69,000. This antibody should permit isolation and characterization of this important ion channel.

Electrophysiological effects of mucosal Cl- removal in Necturus gallbladder epithelium

The factors responsible for the cell membrane hyperpolarization elicited in Necturus gallbladder epithelium on Cl- removal from the mucosal bathing solution were evaluated with conventional and ion-sensitive microelectrode techniques. Cl- removal causes reversal of apical Cl- -HCO3- exchange, resulting in a fall in intracellular Cl- activity (aiCl) and an increase in intracellular pH (pHi). Concomitantly, the cell membranes hyperpolarize to values close to the K+ equilibrium potential (EK), aiNa falls, and aiK rises. The observed changes in membrane voltage are not attributable to a pHi-dependent increase in cell membrane K+ permeability (PK), because 1) the cell membrane resistances increased and 2) elevating solution partial pressure of CO2 (PCO2) to counterbalance the cellular alkalinization on mucosal Cl- removal caused a further hyperpolarization of the cell membranes to values greater than EK. This additional hyperpolarization was related to the activity of the Na+ pump, inasmuch as it was accompanied by an increase in aiNa and was ouabain sensitive. These results are consistent with, but do not prove, pump electrogenicity. During the period of Cl- removal from the mucosal bathing solution, the cell membrane depolarization caused by raising serosal K+ concentration was increased, whereas the depolarization caused by lowering serosal Cl- concentration was decreased, compared with substitutions under control conditions. These results indicate that mucosal Cl- removal causes a decrease in basolateral PCl, which we speculate could be due to a decrease in cell volume. We conclude that the hyperpolarization of the cell membranes on mucosal Cl- removal is primarily due to the combined effects of the fall in basolateral PCl and the increase in basolateral ECl.