A single residue contributes to the difference between Kir4.1 and Kir1.1 channels in pH sensitivity, rectification and single channel conductance

Novel KCNJ10 Gene Variations Compromise Function of Inwardly Rectifying Potassium Channel 4.1

TheKCNJ10gene encoding Kir4.1 contains numerous SNPs whose molecular effects remain unknown. We investigated the functional consequences of uncharacterized SNPs (Q212R, L166Q, and G83V) on homomeric (Kir4.1) and heteromeric (Kir4.1-Kir5.1) channel function. We compared these with previously characterized EAST/SeSAME mutants (G77R and A167V) in kidney-derived tsA201 cells and in glial cell-derived C6 glioma cells. The membrane potentials of tsA201 cells expressing G77R and G83V were significantly depolarized as compared with WTKir4.1, whereas cells expressing Q212R, L166Q, and A167V were less affected. Furthermore, macroscopic currents from cells expressing WTKir4.1 and Q212R channels did not differ, whereas currents from cells expressing L166Q, G83V, G77R, and A167V were reduced. Unexpectedly, L166Q current responses were rescued when co-expressed with Kir5.1. In addition, we observed notable differences in channel activity between C6 glioma cells and tsA201 cells expressing L166Q and A167V, suggesting that there are underlying differences between cell lines in terms of Kir4.1 protein synthesis, stability, or expression at the surface. Finally, we determined spermine (SPM) sensitivity of these uncharacterized SNPs and found that Q212R-containing channels displayed reduced block by 1 μmSPM. At 100 μmSPM, the block was equal to or greater than WT, suggesting that the greater driving force of SPM allowed achievement of steady state. In contrast, L166Q-Kir5.1 channels achieved a higher block than WT, suggesting a more stable interaction of SPM in the deep pore cavity. Overall, our data suggest that G83V, L166Q, and Q212R residues play a pivotal role in controlling Kir4.1 channel function.

Molecular aspects of structure, gating, and physiology of pH-sensitive background K2P and Kir K+-transport channels

K(+) channels fulfill roles spanning from the control of excitability to the regulation of transepithelial transport. Here we review two groups of K(+) channels, pH-regulated K2P channels and the transport group of Kir channels. After considering advances in the molecular aspects of their gating based on structural and functional studies, we examine their participation in certain chosen physiological and pathophysiological scenarios. Crystal structures of K2P and Kir channels reveal rather unique features with important consequences for the gating mechanisms. Important tasks of these channels are discussed in kidney physiology and disease, K(+) homeostasis in the brain by Kir channel-equipped glia, and central functions in the hearing mechanism in the inner ear and in acid secretion by parietal cells in the stomach. K2P channels fulfill a crucial part in central chemoreception probably by virtue of their pH sensitivity and are central to adrenal secretion of aldosterone. Finally, some unorthodox behaviors of the selectivity filters of K2P channels might explain their normal and pathological functions. Although a great deal has been learned about structure, molecular details of gating, and physiological functions of K2P and Kir K(+)-transport channels, this has been only scratching at the surface. More molecular and animal studies are clearly needed to deepen our knowledge.

Control of KirBac3.1 potassium channel gating at the interface between cytoplasmic domains

KirBac channels are prokaryotic homologs of mammalian inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels, and recent structures of KirBac3.1 have provided important insights into the structural basis of gating in Kir channels. In this study, we demonstrate that KirBac3.1 channel activity is strongly pH-dependent, and we used x-ray crystallography to determine the structural changes that arise from an activatory mutation (S205L) located in the cytoplasmic domain (CTD). This mutation stabilizes a novel energetically favorable open conformation in which changes at the intersubunit interface in the CTD also alter the electrostatic potential of the inner cytoplasmic cavity. These results provide a structural explanation for the activatory effect of this mutation and provide a greater insight into the role of the CTD in Kir channel gating.

The cellular building blocks of breathing

Respiratory brainstem neurons fulfill critical roles in controlling breathing: they generate the activity patterns for breathing and contribute to various sensory responses including changes in O2 and CO2. These complex sensorimotor tasks depend on the dynamic interplay between numerous cellular building blocks that consist of voltage-, calcium-, and ATP-dependent ionic conductances, various ionotropic and metabotropic synaptic mechanisms, as well as neuromodulators acting on G-protein coupled receptors and second messenger systems. As described in this review, the sensorimotor responses of the respiratory network emerge through the state-dependent integration of all these building blocks. There is no known respiratory function that involves only a small number of intrinsic, synaptic, or modulatory properties. Because of the complex integration of numerous intrinsic, synaptic, and modulatory mechanisms, the respiratory network is capable of continuously adapting to changes in the external and internal environment, which makes breathing one of the most integrated behaviors. Not surprisingly, inspiration is critical not only in the control of ventilation, but also in the context of "inspiring behaviors" such as arousal of the mind and even creativity. Far-reaching implications apply also to the underlying network mechanisms, as lessons learned from the respiratory network apply to network functions in general.

Kir4.1 K+ channels are regulated by external cations

The inwardly rectifying potassium channel (Kir), Kir4.1 mediates spatial K(+)-buffering in the CNS. In this process the channel is potentially exposed to a large range of extracellular K(+) concentrations ([K(+)]o). We found that Kir4.1 is regulated by K(+)o. Increased [K(+)]o leads to a slow (mins) increase in the whole-cell currents of Xenopus oocytes expressing Kir4.1. Conversely, removing K(+) from the bath solution results in a slow decrease of the currents. This regulation is not coupled to the pHi-sensitive gate of the channel, nor does it require the presence of K67, a residue necessary for K(+)o-dependent regulation of Kir1.1. The voltage-dependent blockers Cs(+) and Ba(2+) substitute for K(+) and prevent deactivation of the channel in the absence of K(+)o. Cs(+) blocks and regulates the channel with similar affinity, consistent with the regulatory sites being in the selectivity-filter of the channel. Although both Rb(+) and NH4(+) permeate Kir4.1, only Rb(+) is able to regulate the channel. We conclude that Kir4.1 is regulated by ions interacting with specific sites in the selectivity filter. Using a kinetic model of the permeation process we show the plausibility of the channel's sensing the extracellular ionic environment through changes in the selectivity occupancy pattern, and that it is feasible for an ion with the selectivity properties of NH4(+) to permeate the channel without inducing these changes.

Inwardly rectifying potassium channels: their structure, function, and physiological roles

Inwardly rectifying K(+) (Kir) channels allow K(+) to move more easily into rather than out of the cell. They have diverse physiological functions depending on their type and their location. There are seven Kir channel subfamilies that can be classified into four functional groups: classical Kir channels (Kir2.x) are constitutively active, G protein-gated Kir channels (Kir3.x) are regulated by G protein-coupled receptors, ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (Kir6.x) are tightly linked to cellular metabolism, and K(+) transport channels (Kir1.x, Kir4.x, Kir5.x, and Kir7.x). Inward rectification results from pore block by intracellular substances such as Mg(2+) and polyamines. Kir channel activity can be modulated by ions, phospholipids, and binding proteins. The basic building block of a Kir channel is made up of two transmembrane helices with cytoplasmic NH(2) and COOH termini and an extracellular loop which folds back to form the pore-lining ion selectivity filter. In vivo, functional Kir channels are composed of four such subunits which are either homo- or heterotetramers. Gene targeting and genetic analysis have linked Kir channel dysfunction to diverse pathologies. The crystal structure of different Kir channels is opening the way to understanding the structure-function relationships of this simple but diverse ion channel family.

Proton inhibition of unitary currents of vanilloid receptors

Protons, which are released during inflammation and injury, regulate many receptors and ion channels involved in pain transduction, including capsaicin channels (transient receptor potential vanilloid receptors 1). Whereas extracellular acidification both sensitizes and directly activates the channel, it also causes concomitant reduction of the unitary current amplitudes. Here, we investigate the mechanisms and molecular basis of this inhibitory effect of protons on channel conductance. Single-channel recordings showed that the unitary current amplitudes decreased with extracellular pH in a dose-dependent manner, consistent with a model in which protons bind to a site within the channel with an apparent pKa of ∼6. The inhibition was voltage dependent, ∼65% at −60 mV and 37% at +60 mV when pH was reduced from 7.4 to 5.5. The unitary current amplitudes reached saturation at [K⁺] ≥ 1 M, and notably the maximum amplitudes did not converge with different pHs, inconsistent with a blockade model based on surface charge screening or competitive inhibition of permeating ions. Mutagenesis experiments uncovered two acidic residues critical for proton inhibition, one located at the pore entrance and the other on the pore helix. Based on homology to the KcsA structure, the two acidic residues, along with another basic residue also on the pore helix, could form a triad interacting with each other through extensive hydrogen bonds and electrostatic contacts, suggesting that protons may mediate the interactions between the selectivity filter and pore helix, thereby altering the local structure in the filter region and consequently the conductance of the channel.

Modulation of the heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel by multiple neurotransmitters via Galphaq-coupled receptors

The heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel is a candidate sensing molecule for central CO(2) chemoreception. Since central CO(2) chemoreception is subject to neural modulations, we performed studies to test the hypothesis that the Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel is modulated by the neurotransmitters critical for respiratory control, including serotonin (5-HT), substance-P (SP), and thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH). The heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel was strongly inhibited by SP, TRH, and 5-HT when expressed in Xenopus oocytes, whereas these neurotransmitters had no effect on the homomeric Kir4.1 channel. Such an inhibition was dose-dependent and relied on specific G(alphaq)-protein-coupled receptors and protein kinase C (PKC). No direct interaction of the channel with G-proteins was found. Channel sensitivity to CO(2)/pH was not compromised with the inhibition by these neurotransmitters, as the channel remained to be inhibited by acidic pH following an exposure to the neurotransmitters. The firing rate of CO(2)-sensitive brainstem neurons cultured in microelectrode arrays was augmented by SP or a 5-HT2A receptor agonist, which was blocked by PKC inhibitors suggesting that PKC underscores the inhibitory effect of SP and 5-HT in cultured brainstem neurons as well. Immunostaining showed that both Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 proteins were co-localized in the cultured brainstem neurons. These results therefore indicate that the heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel is modulated by the neurotransmitters critical for respiratory control, suggesting a novel neuromodulatory mechanism for the chemosensitivity of brainstem neurons to elevated PCO(2) and acidic pH.

Protein kinase C dependent inhibition of the heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel

Heteromultimerization of Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 leads to a channel with distinct functional properties. The heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel is expressed in the eye, kidney and brainstem and has CO(2)/pH sensitivity in the physiological range, suggesting a candidate molecule for the regulation of K(+) homeostasis and central CO(2) chemoreception. It is known that K(+) transport in renal epithelium and brainstem CO(2) chemosensitivity are subject to modulation by hormones and neurotransmitters that activate distinct intracellular signaling pathways. If the Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel is involved in pH-dependent regulation of cellular functions, it may also be regulated by some of the intracellular signaling systems. Therefore, we undertook studies to determine whether PKC modulates the heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 channel. The channel expressed using a Kir4.1-Kir5.1 tandem dimer construct was inhibited by the PKC activator PMA in a dose-dependent manner. The channel inhibition was produced via reduction of the P(open). The effect of PMA was abolished by specific PKC inhibitors. In contrast, exposure of oocytes to forskolin (a PKA activator) had no significant effect on Kir4.1-Kir5.1 currents. The channel inhibition appeared to be independent of PIP(2) depletion and PKC-dependent internalization. Several consensus sequences of potential PKC phosphorylation sites were identified in the Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 subunits by sequence scan. Although the C-terminal peptides of both Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 were phosphorylated in vitro, site-directed mutagenesis of individual residues failed to reveal the PKC phosphorylation sites suggesting that the channel may have multiple phosphorylation sites. Taken together, these results suggest that the Kir4.1-Kir5.1 but not the homomeric Kir4.1 channel is strongly inhibited by PKC activation.

Subunit-specific mechanisms and proton sensitivity of NMDA receptor channel block

We have compared the potencies of structurally distinct channel blockers at recombinant NR1/NR2A, NR1/NR2B, NR1/NR2C and NR1/NR2D receptors. The IC50 values varied with stereochemistry and subunit composition, suggesting that it may be possible to design subunit-selective channel blockers. For dizocilpine (MK-801), the differential potency of MK-801 stereoisomers determined at recombinant NMDA receptors was confirmed at native receptors in vitro and in vivo. Since the proton sensor is tightly linked both structurally and functionally to channel gating, we examined whether blocking molecules that interact in the channel pore with the gating machinery can differentially sense protonation of the receptor. Blockers capable of remaining trapped in the pore during agonist unbinding showed the strongest dependence on extracellular pH, appearing more potent at acidic pH values that promote channel closure. Determination of pK(a) values for channel blockers suggests that the ionization of ketamine but not of other blockers can influence its pH-dependent potency. Kinetic modelling and single channel studies suggest that the pH-dependent block of NR1/NR2A by (-)MK-801 but not (+)MK-801 reflects an increase in the MK-801 association rate even though protons reduce channel open probability and thus MK-801 access to its binding site. Allosteric modulators that alter pH sensitivity alter the potency of MK-801, supporting the interpretation that the pH sensitivity of MK-801 binding reflects the changes at the proton sensor rather than a secondary effect of pH. These data suggest a tight coupling between the proton sensor and the ion channel gate as well as unique subunit-specific mechanisms of channel block.

Modulation of Kir4.2 rectification properties and pHi-sensitive run-down by association with Kir5.1

Inwardly rectifying K+ channels (Kir) comprise seven subfamilies that can be subdivided further on the basis of cytosolic pH (pHi) sensitivity, rectification strength and kinetics, and resistance to run-down. Although distinct residues within each channel subunit define these properties, heteromeric association with other Kir subunits can modulate them. We identified such an effect in the wild-type forms of Kir4.2 and Kir5.1 and used this to further understand how the functional properties of Kir channels relate to their structures. Kir4.2 and a Kir4.2-Kir5.1 fusion protein were expressed in HEK293 cells. Inward currents from Kir4.2 were stable over 10 min and pHi-insensitive (pH 6 to 8). Conversely, currents from Kir4.2-Kir5.1 exhibited a pHi-sensitive run-down at slightly acidic pHi. At pHi 7.2, currents in response to voltage steps positive to EK were essentially time independent for Kir4.2 indicating rapid block by Mg2+. Coexpression with Kir5.1 significantly increased the blocking time constant, and increased steady-state outward current characteristic of weak rectifiers. Recovery from blockade at negative potentials was voltage dependent and 2 to 10 times slower in the homomeric channel. These results show that Kir5.1 converts Kir4.2 from a strong to a weak rectifier, rendering it sensitive to pHi, and suggesting that Kir5.1 plays a role in fine-tuning Kir4.2 activity.

pH sensing in the two-pore domain K+ channel, TASK2

TASK2 is a member of the two-pore domain K(+) channel family that plays a role in acid-base homeostasis; TASK2 knockout animals have plasma electrolyte patterns typical of the human clinical condition of renal tubular acidosis. It is expressed preferentially in epithelia, including the proximal tubules of the kidney. In common with the other TASK channels, TASK2 is sensitive to changes in extracellular pH, although the molecular mechanism of such pH sensing is not understood. We have examined the role of charged residues in the extracellular domains in pH sensing using a mutational approach. Mutant channels were expressed in CHO cells and studied by whole-cell and single-channel patch clamp. Neutralization of no single amino acid in isolation gave complete loss of pH sensitivity. However, the combined removal of five charged amino acids in the large extracellular loop linking the first transmembrane and pore domains, the M1-P1 loop, resulted in an essentially pH-insensitive channel, stabilized in the open state. Wild-type channels contain two such loops, but a concatemeric construct, comprised of one wild-type subunit and one containing the five mutations, was fully pH-sensitive, indicating that only one M1-P1 loop is required to yield a fully pH-sensitive channel, demonstrating a regulatory role of this distinctive structure in two-pore domain K(+) channels. Thus, pH sensing in TASK2 channels is conferred by the combined action of several charged residues in the large extracellular M1-P1 loop.

Subunit stoichiometry of the Kir1.1 channel in proton-dependent gating

Kir1.1 channel regulates membrane potential and K+ secretion in renal tubular cells. This channel is gated by intracellular protons, in which a lysine residue (Lys80) plays a critical role. Mutation of the Lys80 to a methionine (K80M) disrupts pH-dependent channel gating. To understand how an individual subunit in a tetrameric channel is involved in pH-dependent channel gating, we performed these studies by introducing K80M-disrupted subunits to tandem tetrameric channels. The pH sensitivity was studied in whole-cell voltage clamp and inside-out patches. Homomeric tetramers of the wild-type (wt) and K80M-disrupted channels showed a pH sensitivity almost identical to that of their monomeric counterparts. In heteromeric tetramers and dimers, pH sensitivity was a function of the number of wt subunits. Recruitment of the first single wt subunit shifts the pK(a) greatly, whereas additions of any extra wt subunit had smaller effects. Single-channel analysis revealed that the tetrameric channel with two or more wt subunits showed one substate conductance at approximately 40% of the full conductance, suggesting that four subunits act as two pairs. However, three and four substates of conductance were seen in the tetrameric wt-3K80M and 4K80M channels. Acidic pH increased long-time closures when there were two or more wt subunits. Disruption of more than two subunits led to flicking activity with appearance of a new opening event and loss of the long period of closures. Interestingly, the channel with two wt subunits at diagonal and adjacent configurations showed the same pH sensitivity, substate conductance, and long-time closure. These results thus suggest that one functional subunit is sufficient to act in the pH-dependent gating of the Kir1.1 channel, the channel sensitivity to pH increases with additional subunits, the full pH sensitivity requires contributions of all four subunits, and two subunits may be coordinated in functional dimers of either trans or cis configuration.

CO2 central chemosensitivity: why are there so many sensing molecules?

CO2 central chemoreceptors (CCRs) play a critical role in respiratory and cardiovascular controls. Although the primary sensory cells and their neuronal networks remain elusive, recent studies have begun to shed insight into the molecular mechanisms of several pH sensitive proteins. These putative CO2/pH-sensing molecules are expressed in the brainstem, detect P(CO2) at physiological levels, and couple the P(CO2) to membrane excitability. Functional analysis suggests that multiple CO2/pH-sensing molecules are needed to achieve high sensitivity and broad bandwidth of the CCRs. In contrast to the diversity of pH sensitive molecules, molecular mechanisms for CO2 sensing are rather general. The sensing molecules detect pH changes rather than molecular CO2. One or a few titratable amino acid residues in these proteins are usually involved. Protonation of these residues may lead to a change in protein conformation that is coupled to a change in channel activity. Depending on the location of the protonation sites, a membrane protein can detect extra- and/or intracellular pH.

Molecular diversity and regulation of renal potassium channels

K(+) channels are widely distributed in both plant and animal cells where they serve many distinct functions. K(+) channels set the membrane potential, generate electrical signals in excitable cells, and regulate cell volume and cell movement. In renal tubule epithelial cells, K(+) channels are not only involved in basic functions such as the generation of the cell-negative potential and the control of cell volume, but also play a uniquely important role in K(+) secretion. Moreover, K(+) channels participate in the regulation of vascular tone in the glomerular circulation, and they are involved in the mechanisms mediating tubuloglomerular feedback. Significant progress has been made in defining the properties of renal K(+) channels, including their location within tubule cells, their biophysical properties, regulation, and molecular structure. Such progress has been made possible by the application of single-channel analysis and the successful cloning of K(+) channels of renal origin.

Cellular mechanisms involved in CO(2) and acid signaling in chemosensitive neurons

An increase in CO(2)/H(+) is a major stimulus for increased ventilation and is sensed by specialized brain stem neurons called central chemosensitive neurons. These neurons appear to be spread among numerous brain stem regions, and neurons from different regions have different levels of chemosensitivity. Early studies implicated changes of pH as playing a role in chemosensitive signaling, most likely by inhibiting a K(+) channel, depolarizing chemosensitive neurons, and thereby increasing their firing rate. Considerable progress has been made over the past decade in understanding the cellular mechanisms of chemosensitive signaling using reduced preparations. Recent evidence has pointed to an important role of changes of intracellular pH in the response of central chemosensitive neurons to increased CO(2)/H(+) levels. The signaling mechanisms for chemosensitivity may also involve changes of extracellular pH, intracellular Ca(2+), gap junctions, oxidative stress, glial cells, bicarbonate, CO(2), and neurotransmitters. The normal target for these signals is generally believed to be a K(+) channel, although it is likely that many K(+) channels as well as Ca(2+) channels are involved as targets of chemosensitive signals. The results of studies of cellular signaling in central chemosensitive neurons are compared with results in other CO(2)- and/or H(+)-sensitive cells, including peripheral chemoreceptors (carotid body glomus cells), invertebrate central chemoreceptors, avian intrapulmonary chemoreceptors, acid-sensitive taste receptor cells on the tongue, and pain-sensitive nociceptors. A multiple factors model is proposed for central chemosensitive neurons in which multiple signals that affect multiple ion channel targets result in the final neuronal response to changes in CO(2)/H(+).

Basolateral K+ conductance in principal cells of rat CCD

Whole cell K+ current was measured by forming seals on the luminal membrane of principal cells in split-open rat cortical collecting ducts. The mean inward, Ba2+-sensitive conductance, with 40 mM extracellular K+, was 76 +/- 12 and 141 +/- 22 nS/cell for animals on control and high-K+ diets, respectively. The apical contribution to this was estimated to be 3 and 16 nS/cell on control and high-K+ diets, respectively. To isolate the basolateral component of whole cell current, we blocked ROMK channels with either tertiapin-Q or intracellular acidification to pH 6.6. The current was weakly inward rectifying when bath K+ was > or =40 mM but became more strongly rectified when bath K+ was lowered into the physiological range. Including 1 mM spermine in the pipette moderately increased rectification, but most of the outward current remained. The K+ current did not require intracellular Ca2+ and was not inhibited by 3 mM ATP in the pipette. The negative log of the acidic dissociation constant (pKa) was approximately 6.5. Block by extracellular Ba2+ was voltage dependent with apparent Ki at -40 and -80 mV of approximately 160 and approximately 80 microM, respectively. The conductance was TEA insensitive. Substitution of Rb+ or NH4+ for K+ led to permeability ratios of 0.65 +/- 0.07 and 0.15 +/- 0.02 and inward conductance ratios of 0.17 +/- 0.03 and 0.57 +/- 0.09, respectively. Analysis of Ba2+-induced noise, with 40 mM extracellular K+, yielded single-channel currents of 0.39 +/- 0.04 and -0.28 +/- 0.04 pA at voltages of 0 and -40 mV, respectively, and a single-channel conductance of 17 +/- 1 pS.

An inwardly rectifying potassium channel in apical membrane of Calu-3 cells

Patch clamp methods and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to characterize an apical K+ channel in Calu-3 cells, a widely used model of human airway gland serous cells. In cell-attached and excised apical membrane patches, we found an inwardly rectifying K+ channel (Kir). The permeability ratio was PNa/PK = 0.058. In 30 patches with both cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator and Kir present, we observed 79 cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator and 58 Kir channels. The average chord conductance was 24.4 +/- 0.5 pS (n = 11), between 0 and -200 mV, and was 9.6 +/- 0.7 pS (n = 8), between 0 and 50 mV; these magnitudes and their ratio of approximately 2.5 are most similar to values for rectifying K+ channels of the Kir4.x subfamilies. We attempted to amplify transcripts for Kir4.1, Kir4.2, and Kir5.1; of these only Kir4.2 was present in Calu-3 lysates. The channel was only weakly activated by ATP and was relatively insensitive to internal pH. External Cs+ and Ba2+ blocked the channel with Kd values in the millimolar range. Quantitative modeling of Cl- secreting epithelia suggests that secretion rates will be highest and luminal K+ will rise to 16-28 mm if 11-25% of the total cellular K+ conductance is placed in the apical membrane (Cook, D. I., and Young, J. A. (1989) J. Membr. Biol. 110, 139-146). Thus, we hypothesize that the K+ channel described here optimizes the rate of secretion and is involved in K+ recycling for the recently proposed apical H+ -K+ -ATPase in Calu-3 cells.

Protons block BK channels by competitive inhibition with K+ and contribute to the limits of unitary currents at high voltages

Proton block of unitary currents through BK channels was investigated with single-channel recording. Increasing intracellular proton concentration decreased unitary current amplitudes with an apparent pKa of 5.1 without discrete blocking events, indicating fast proton block. Unitary currents recorded at pH_i 8.0 and 9.0 had the same amplitudes, indicating that 10⁻⁸ M H⁺ had little blocking effect. Increasing H⁺ by recording at pH_i 7.0, 6.0, and 5.0 then reduced the unitary currents by 13%, 25%, and 53%, respectively, at +200 mV. Increasing K⁺_i relieved the proton block in a manner consistent with competitive inhibition of K⁺_i action by H⁺_i. Proton block was voltage dependent, increasing with depolarization, indicating that block was coupled to the electric field of the membrane. Proton block was not described by the Woodhull equation for noncompetitive voltage-dependent block, but was described by an equation for cooperative competitive inhibition that included voltage-dependent block from the Woodhull equation. Proton block was still present after replacing the eight negative charges in the ring of charge at the entrance to the intracellular vestibule by uncharged amino acids. Thus, the ring of charge is not the site of proton block or of competitive inhibition of K⁺_i action by H⁺_i. With 150 mM symmetrical KCl, unitary current amplitudes increased with depolarization, reaching 66 pA at +350 mV (pH_i 7.0). The increase in amplitude with voltage became sublinear for voltages >100 mV. The sublinearity was unaffected by removing from the intracellular solutions Ca²⁺ and Ba²⁺ ions, the Ca²⁺ buffers EGTA and HEDTA, the pH buffer TES, or by replacing Cl⁻ with MeSO₃⁻. Proton block accounted for ∼40% of the sublinearity at +200 mV and pH 7.0, indicating that factors in addition to proton block contribute to the sublinearity of the unitary currents through BK channels.

Molecular mechanisms of electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransport: structural and equilibrium thermodynamic considerations

The electrogenic Na(+)-HCO(3)(-) cotransporters play an essential role in regulating intracellular pH and extracellular acid-base homeostasis. Of the known members of the bicarbonate transporter superfamily (BTS), NBC1 and NBC4 proteins have been shown to be electrogenic. The electrogenic nature of these transporters results from the unequal coupling of anionic and cationic fluxes during each transport cycle. This unique property distinguishes NBC1 and NBC4 proteins from other sodium bicarbonate cotransporters and members of the bicarbonate transporter superfamily that are known to be electroneutral. Structure-function studies have played an essential role in revealing the basis for the modulation of the coupling ratio of NBC1 proteins. In addition, the recent transmembrane topographic analysis of pNBC1 has shed light on the potential structural determinants that are responsible for ion permeation through the cotransporter. The experimentally difficult problem of determining the nature of anionic species being transported by these proteins (HCO(3)(-) versus CO(3)(2-)) is analyzed using a theoretical equilibrium thermodynamics approach. Finally, our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the regulation of ion coupling and flux through electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporters is reviewed in detail.

Taste buds and nerve fibers in the rat larynx: an ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study

We investigated the rat laryngeal taste buds and their innervation by electron microscopy and immunohistochemical methods. Taste buds were densely arranged in the surface facing the laryngeal cavity of the epiglottis, the aryepiglottic fold, and the cuneiform process of the arytenoid cartilages. The cells of the buds were classified into types I, II, III, and basal cells, the ultrastucture of which was almost the same as that previously reported in lingual taste buds. The type III cells that had synaptic contacts with nerve fibers were considered to be sensory cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed thick calbindin D28k-immunoreactive fibers and thin varicose fibers immunoreactive for calcitonin gene-related peptide or substance P in and around the taste bud. Serotonin-immunoreactive cells were also observed here. The results revealed the innervation pattern of laryngeal taste buds to be the same as that in lingual taste buds. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is known to catalyze the hydration of CO2 and dehydration of H2CO3, and seems to be essential in CO2 reception. Immunoreactivity for CAI was detected in slender cells and that for CAIII was observed in barrel-like cells in the laryngeal taste buds. The pH-sensitive inward rectifier K+ (Kir) channel in the cell membrane may be involved in CO2 reception as well. CAII-reactive cells were also reactive to Kir4.1, PGP 9.5 and serotonin. Our results indicated that CAII and Kir4.1 are located in type III cells of the laryngeal taste buds, and supported the idea that the buds may be involved in the recognition of CO2.

Kir channels in the CNS: emerging new roles and implications for neurological diseases

Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels have long been regarded as transmembrane proteins that regulate the membrane potential of neurons and that are responsible for [K(+)] siphoning in glial cells. The subunit diversity within the Kir channel family is growing rapidly and this is reflected in the multitude of roles that Kir channels play in the central nervous system (CNS). Kir channels are known to control cell differentiation, modify CNS hormone secretion, modulate neurotransmitter release in the nigrostriatal system, may act as hypoxia-sensors and regulate cerebral artery dilatation. The increasing availability of genetic mouse models that express inactive Kir channel subunits has opened new insights into their role in developing and adult mammalian tissues and during the course of CNS disorders. New aspects with respect to the role of Kir channels during CNS cell differentiation and neurogenesis are also emerging. Dysfunction of Kir channels in animal models can lead to severe phenotypes ranging from early postnatal death to an increased susceptibility to develop epileptic seizures. In this review, we summarize the in vivo data that demonstrate the role of Kir channels in regulating morphogenetic events, such as the proliferation, differentiation and survival of neurons and glial cells. We describe the way in which the gating of Kir channel subunits plays an important role in polygenic CNS diseases, such as white matter disease, epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.

Regulation of AE2-mediated Cl- transport by intracellular or by extracellular pH requires highly conserved amino acid residues of the AE2 NH2-terminal cytoplasmic domain

We reported recently that regulation by intracellular pH (pH(i)) of the murine Cl-/HCO(3)(-) exchanger AE2 requires amino acid residues 310-347 of the polypeptide's NH(2)-terminal cytoplasmic domain. We have now identified individual amino acid residues within this region whose integrity is required for regulation of AE2 by pH. 36Cl- efflux from AE2-expressing Xenopus oocytes was monitored during variation of extracellular pH (pH(o)) with unclamped or clamped pH(i), or during variation of pH(i) at constant pH(o). Wild-type AE2-mediated 36Cl- efflux was profoundly inhibited by acid pH(o), with a value of pH(o50) = 6.87 +/- 0.05, and was stimulated up to 10-fold by the intracellular alkalinization produced by bath removal of the preequilibrated weak acid, butyrate. Systematic hexa-alanine [(A)6]bloc substitutions between aa 312-347 identified the greatest acid shift in pH(o(50)) value, approximately 0.8 pH units in the mutant (A)6 342-347, but only a modest acid-shift in the mutant (A)6 336-341. Two of the six (A)6 mutants retained normal pH(i) sensitivity of 36Cl- efflux, whereas the (A)6 mutants 318-323, 336-341, and 342-347 were not stimulated by intracellular alkalinization. We further evaluated the highly conserved region between aa 336-347 by alanine scan and other mutagenesis of single residues. Significant changes in AE2 sensitivity to pH(o) and to pH(i) were found independently and in concert. The E346A mutation acid-shifted the pH(o(0) value to the same extent whether pH(i) was unclamped or held constant during variation of pH(o). Alanine substitution of the corresponding glutamate residues in the cytoplasmic domains of related AE anion exchanger polypeptides confirmed the general importance of these residues in regulation of anion exchange by pH. Conserved, individual amino acid residues of the AE2 cytoplasmic domain contribute to independent regulation of anion exchange activity by pH(o) as well as pH(i).

An alternative approach to the identification of respiratory central chemoreceptors in the brainstem

Central chemoreceptors (CCRs) play a crucial role in autonomic respiration. Although a variety of brainstem neurons are CO(2) sensitive, it remains to know which of them are the CCRs. In this article, we discuss a potential alternative approach that may allow an access to the CCRs. This approach is based on identification of specific molecules that are CO(2) or pH sensitive, exist in brainstem neurons, and regulate cellular excitability. Their molecular identity may provide another measure in addition to the electrophysiologic criteria to indicate the CCRs. The inward rectifier K(+) channels (Kir) seem to be some of the CO(2) sensing molecules, as they regulate membrane potential and cell excitability and are pH sensitive. Among homomeric Kirs, we have found that even the most sensitive Kir1.1 and Kir2.3 have pK approximately 6.8, suggesting that they may not be capable of detecting hypocapnia. We have studied their biophysical properties, and identified a number of amino acid residues and molecular motifs critical for the CO(2) sensing. By comparing all Kirs using the motifs, we found the same amino acid sequence in Kir5.1, and demonstrated the pH sensitivity in heteromeric Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 channels to be pK approximately 7.4. In current clamp, we show evidence that the Kir4.1-Kir5.1 can detect P(CO(2)) changes in either hypercapnic or hypocapnic direction. Our in-situ hybridization studies have indicated that they are coexpressed in brainstem cardio-respiratory nuclei. Thus, it is likely that the heteromeric Kir4.1-Kir5.1 contributes to the CO(2)/pH sensitivity in these neurons. We believe that this line of research intended to identify CO(2) sensing molecules is an important addition to current studies on the CCRs.