Characterisation of distinct inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive and caffeine-sensitive calcium stores in digitonin-permeabilised adrenal chromaffin cells

Complex intracellular calcium oscillations. A theoretical exploration of possible mechanisms

Intracellular Ca(2+) oscillations are commonly observed in a large number of cell types in response to stimulation by an extracellular agonist. In most cell types the mechanism of regular spiking is well understood and models based on Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release (CICR) can account for many experimental observations. However, cells do not always exhibit simple Ca(2+) oscillations. In response to given agonists, some cells show more complex behaviour in the form of bursting, i.e. trains of Ca(2+) spikes separated by silent phases. Here we develop several theoretical models, based on physiologically plausible assumptions, that could account for complex intracellular Ca(2+) oscillations. The models are all based on one- or two-pool models based on CICR. We extend these models by (i) considering the inhibition of the Ca(2+)-release channel on a unique intracellular store at high cytosolic Ca(2+) concentrations, (ii) taking into account the Ca(2+)-activated degradation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)), or (iii) considering explicity the evolution of the Ca(2+) concentration in two different pools, one sensitive and the other one insensitive to IP(3). Besides simple periodic oscillations, these three models can all account for more complex oscillatory behaviour in the form of bursting. Moreover, the model that takes the kinetics of IP(3) into account shows chaotic behaviour.

Effects of alkaloids of Himatanthus lancifolius (Muell. Arg.) Woodson, Apocynaceae, on smooth muscle responsiveness

Himatanthus lancifolius, popularly known as "agoniada" in Brazil, is largely used in folk medicine against asthma, dysmenorrhea and as an emenagogue and abortive. This study reveals the effects of an alkaloid rich fraction (AlkF) obtained from the bark of Himatanthus lancifolius in vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle responsiveness. Incubation of AlkF (3-30 microg/ml) during 15 min generates a concentration-related and fully reversible reduction in maximal contractile responses evoked by acetylcholine and phenylephrine in rat jejune and aorta preparations, respectively. Exposition of endothelium-denuded pre-contracted rat aorta rings to AlkF results in a complete relaxation, with EC(50) of 22.2 (16.2-28.2 microg/ml). AlkF is also able to induce a concentration-related rightward shift of cumulative concentration curves for calcium in uterus and aorta rings maintained in depolarizing nutritive solution. Moreover, addition of AlkF in calcium-free solution also reduces, in a concentration-dependent manner, the ability of caffeine and phenylephrine to contract aorta rings. This study reveals that the bark of Himatanthus lancifolius possesses one or more indole alkaloids able to alter non-vascular and vascular smooth muscle responsiveness, an event that may involve the blocking of calcium entry or changes on intracellular calcium utilization or mobilization.

PAC1 receptor activation by PACAP-38 mediates Ca2+ release from a cAMP-dependent pool in human fetal adrenal gland chromaffin cells

Previous studies have shown that human fetal adrenal gland from 17- to 20-week-old fetuses expressed pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) receptors, which were localized on chromaffin cells. The aim of the present study was to identify PACAP receptor isoforms and to determine whether PACAP can affect intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and catecholamine secretion. Using primary cultures and specific stimulation of chromaffin cells, we demonstrate that PACAP-38 induced an increase in [Ca(2+)](i) that was blocked by PACAP (6-38), was independent of external Ca(2+), and originated from thapsigargin-insensitive internal stores. The PACAP-triggered Ca(2+) increase was not affected by inhibition of PLC beta (preincubation with U-73122) or by pretreatment of cells with Xestospongin C, indicating that the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate-sensitive stores were not mobilized. However, forskolin (FSK), which raises cytosolic cAMP, induced an increase in Ca(2+) similar to that recorded with PACAP-38. Blockage of PKA by H-89 or (R(p))-cAMPS suppressed both PACAP-38 and FSK calcium responses. The effect of PACAP-38 was also abolished by emptying the caffeine/ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+) stores. Furthermore, treatment of cells with orthovanadate (100 microm) impaired Ca(2+) reloading of PACAP-sensitive stores indicating that PACAP-38 can mobilize Ca(2+) from secretory vesicles. Moreover, PACAP induced catecholamine secretion by chromaffin cells. It is concluded that PACAP-38, through the PAC(1) receptor, acts as a neurotransmitter in human fetal chromaffin cells inducing catecholamine secretion, through nonclassical, recently described, ryanodine/caffeine-sensitive pools, involving a cAMP- and PKA-dependent phosphorylation mechanism.

Bradykinin-induced neuropeptide Y release by human pheochromocytoma tissue

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and noradrenaline (NA) are frequently co-localized and co-released in the sympathetic nervous system. Since bradykinin (BK) is known to stimulate neurotransmitter release as NA in adrenal glands, we therefore hypothesized that BK might also be involved in the release of NPY. The effect of BK(1-9) on immunoreactive NPY (Ir-NPY) release was investigated in superfused human pheochromocytoma tissue. BK(1-9) (10(-7)-10(-5) M) was shown to induce a rapid Ir-NPY release in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect of BK(1-9) (10(-6) M) was mimicked by the B2 agonist [Phe(8)(CH(2)NH)Arg(9)]-bradykinin (10(-5) M) and blocked by the selective B2-receptor antagonist HOE140 (10(-5) M). Increasing Ir-NPY release was probably not mediated by nitric oxide (NO) since the outflow of Ir-NPY was not influenced by the NO synthase inhibitor N-omega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (10(-4) M). In presence of bapta-AM (10(-5) M), a chelator of cytosolic calcium, W7 (10(-5) M), a calmodulin inhibitor, TMB-8 (10(-5) M), a blocker of intracellular calcium mobilization and ryanodine (10(-5) M), a selective inhibitor of the Ca(2+)-induced release mechanism, the NPY release by BK(1-9) was significantly inhibited by 126%, 98%, 91%, and 94%, respectively. These results indicate that BK increased the release of NPY by the tumor acting through the interaction with the BK-B2 receptor and request intracellular calcium mobilization independently of a NO mechanism.

Caffeine stimulates Ca(2+) entry through store-operated channels to activate tyrosine hydroxylase in bovine chromaffin cells

The ability of caffeine-induced store Ca(2+) mobilization to activate tyrosine hydroxylase was studied in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Caffeine increased tyrosine hydroxylase activity over 10 min with an EC(50) of 3 mm and maximum effect at 20 mm. The maximum response to caffeine was substantial, being almost one third that of the strongest agonists acetylcholine and PACAP-27, about half that for K(+) and similar to that for histamine. In contrast, catecholamine secretion evoked by caffeine was small, being less than 10% of the response to strong agonists. Caffeine-induced tyrosine hydroxylase activation was not mimicked or prevented by phosphodiesterase inhibition with isobutylmethylxanthine, nor was it mimicked by an equimolar concentration of sucrose. However, the effect of caffeine was prevented by depleting intracellular Ca(2+) stores by thapsigargin pretreatment, and reduced substantially by removing extracellular Ca(2+), by blocking Ca(2+) channels with Co(2+) or Ni(2+), or by inhibiting store-operated channels with 2-aminoethyl diphenylborate. It was not affected by inhibiting Ca(2+) entry through voltage-operated Ca(2+)-channels or by tetrodotoxin. The effect of caffeine was mimicked by acute thapsigargin treatment or by depleting intracellular Ca(2+) stores in Ca(2+)-free buffer and then reintroducing extracellular Ca(2+). The results indicate that mobilizing store Ca(2+) with caffeine is a very effective mechanism for activating tyrosine hydroxylase and that the majority of this response depends on extracellular Ca(2+) entry through store-operated channels. They also suggest that extracellular Ca(2+) entry through such channels regulates cellular responses differently to Ca(2+) entry through voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels.

Ryanodine receptor-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) release in glomus cells is independent of natural stimuli and does not participate in the chemosensory responses of the rat carotid body

The hypothesis that intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) release in glomus cells via ryanodine receptor (RyR) activation by caffeine may be independent of natural stimuli and chemosensory discharge was tested in the rat carotid body (CB). CB type I cells were isolated, plated and preloaded with calcium-sensitive fluorescent probe, Indo-1AM. With the increase of caffeine dose (0-50 mM) cytosolic calcium ([Ca(2+)](c)) increased from 85+/-15 nM to 1933+/-190 nM (n=6) at normoxia (PO(2)=125-130 Torr, PCO(2)=25-30 Torr, pH 7.30-7.35). Hypoxia (PO(2)=10-15 Torr) increased and hypocapnia (PCO(2)=7-9 Torr) decreased the cytoplasmic calcium [Ca(2+)](c) levels, independent of caffeine. Caffeine-related [Ca(2+)](c) increase was the same in the presence and the absence of extracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](o)), indicating the source of Ca(2+) ions is the cellular store. Permeabilization of the cell membrane with saponin (25 microg/ml) retained the caffeine response. Additional treatment of the cells with 50 microM ryanodine (an inhibitor of the caffeine-activated RyR site) abolished caffeine-stimulated response. In vitro CB chemosensory (carotid sinus nerve, CSN) responses to hypoxia (PO(2)=35-40 Torr) were not altered by caffeine. These results suggest that [Ca(2+)](i) stores in CB cells, mobilized by RyR activation, do not participate in the CSN responses to natural stimuli.

Functionally separate intracellular Ca2+ stores in smooth muscle

In smooth muscle, release via the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R) and ryanodine receptors (RyR) on the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) controls oscillatory and steady-state cytosolic Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)](c)). The interplay between the two receptors, itself determined by their organization on the SR, establishes the time course and spatial arrangement of the Ca(2+) signal. Whether or not the receptors are co-localized or distanced from each other on the same store or whether they exist on separate stores will significantly affect the Ca(2+) signal produced by the SR. To date these matters remain unresolved. The functional arrangement of the RyR and Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R on the SR has now been examined in isolated single voltage-clamped colonic myocytes. Depletion of the ryanodine-sensitive store, by repeated application of caffeine, in the presence of ryanodine, abolished the response to Ins(1,4,5)P(3), suggesting that Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R and RyR share a common Ca(2+) store. Ca(2+) release from the Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R did not activate Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release at the RyR. Depletion of the Ins(1,4,5)P(3)-sensitive store, by the removal of external Ca(2+), on the other hand, caused only a small decrease ( approximately 26%) in caffeine-evoked Ca(2+) transients, suggesting that not all RyR exist on the common store shared with Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R. Dependence of the stores on external Ca(2+) for replenishment also differed; removal of external Ca(2+) depleted the Ins(1,4,5)P(3)-sensitive store but caused only a slight reduction in caffeine-evoked transients mediated at RyR. Different mechanisms are presumably responsible for the refilling of each store. Refilling of both Ins(1,4,5)P(3)-sensitive and caffeine-sensitive Ca(2+) stores was inhibited by each of the SR Ca(2+) ATPase inhibitors thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid. These results may be explained by the existence of two functionally distinct Ca(2+) stores; the first expressing only RyR and refilled from [Ca(2+)](c), the second expressing both Ins(1,4,5)P(3)R and RyR and dependent upon external Ca(2+) for refilling.

Heterogeneous increases of cytoplasmic calcium: distinct effects on down-regulation of cell surface sodium channels and sodium channel subunit mRNA levels

1. Long-term (> or = 12 h) treatment of cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells with A23187 (a Ca(2+) ionophore) or thapsigargin (TG) [an inhibitor of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA)] caused a time- and concentration-dependent reduction of cell surface [(3)H]-saxitoxin (STX) binding capacity, but did not change the K:(D:) value. In A23187- or TG-treated cells, veratridine-induced (22)Na(+) influx was reduced (with no change in veratridine EC(50) value) while it was enhanced by alpha-scorpion venom, beta-scorpion venom, or Ptychodiscus brevis toxin-3, like in nontreated cells. 2. The A23187- or TG-induced decrease of [(3)H]-STX binding was diminished by BAPTA-AM. EGTA also inhibited the decreasing effect of A23187. A23187 caused a rapid, monophasic and persistent increase in intracellular concentration of Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) to a greater extent than that observed with TG. 2,5-Di-(t-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (DBHQ) (an inhibitor of SERCA) produced only a rapid monophasic increase in [Ca(2+)](i), without any effect on [(3)H]-STX binding. 3. Reduction in [(3)H]-STX binding capacity induced by A23187 or TG was attenuated by Gö6976 (an inhibitor of conventional protein kinase C) or calpastatin peptide (an inhibitor of calpain). When the internalization rate of cell surface Na(+) channels was measured in the presence of brefeldin A (an inhibitor of vesicular exit from the trans-Golgi network), A23187 or TG accelerated the reduction of [(3)H]-STX binding capacity. 4. Six hours treatment with A23187 lowered Na(+) channel alpha- and beta(1)-subunit mRNA levels, whereas TG had no effect. 5. These results suggest that elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) caused by A23187, TG or DBHQ exerted differential effects on down-regulation of cell surface functional Na(+) channels and Na(+) channel subunit mRNA levels.

Rundown of secretion after depletion of intracellular calcium stores in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

In this study, the relationship between intracellular calcium stores and depolarization-evoked stimulation was examined in bovine chromaffin cells, using changes in membrane capacitance to monitor both exocytosis and endocytosis. Cells were voltage-clamped using the perforated whole-cell patch configuration to minimize alterations in intracellular constituents. Control cells exhibited reproducible secretory responses each time the cell was stimulated. However, the same stimulation protocol elicited progressively smaller secretory responses in cells where their intracellular calcium store was emptied by thapsigargin. Transient elevation of the intracellular calcium concentration with a brief histamine treatment enhanced subsequent secretory responses in control but not in thapsigargin-treated cells. A series of depolarizations to -20 mV, which allowed small amounts of Ca(2+) influx but which by itself did not trigger catecholamine secretion, enhanced subsequent exocytosis in both control and thapsigargin-treated cells. Caffeine-pretreated cells exhibited a rundown in the secretory response that was similar to that produced by thapsigargin. These results suggest that brief elevations of [Ca(2+)](i) could enhance subsequent secretory responses. In addition, the data suggest that intracellular calcium stores are vital for the maintenance of exocytosis during repetitive stimulation.

Unloading and refilling of two classes of spatially resolved endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) stores in astrocytes

Signaling by two classes of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) stores was studied in primary cultured rat astrocytes. Cytosolic and intra-ER Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)](CYT) and [Ca(2+)](ER)) were measured with, respectively, Fura-2 and Furaptra, in separate experiments. The agonists, glutamate and ATP, released Ca(2+) primarily from cyclopiazonic acid (CPA)-sensitive ER Ca(2+) stores (CPA inhibits ER Ca(2+) pumps). Agonist-evoked release was abolished by prior treatment with CPA but was unaffected by prior depletion of caffeine/ryanodine (CAF/RY)-sensitive ER Ca(2+) stores. Conversely, prior depletion of the CPA-sensitive stores did not interfere with Ca(2+) release or reuptake in the CAF/RY-sensitive stores. Unloading of the CPA-sensitive stores, but not the CAF/RY-sensitive stores, promoted Ca(2+) entry through "store-operated channels." Resting [Ca(2+)](ER) averaged 153 microM (based on in situ calibration of Furaptra: K(D) = 76 microM, vs 53 microM in solution). The releasable Ca(2+) in both types of ER Ca(2+) stores was increased by Na(+) pump inhibition with 1 mM ouabain or K(+)-free medium. Using high spatial resolution imaging and image subtraction methods, we observed that some regions of the ER (45-58% of the total ER) unloaded and refilled when CPA was added and removed. Other regions of the ER (24-38%) unloaded and refilled when CAF was added and removed. The overlap between these two classes of ER was only 10-18%. These data indicate that there are two structurally separate, independent components of the ER and that they are responsible for the functional independence of the CPA-sensitive and CAF/RY-sensitive ER Ca(2+) stores.

Ca(2+) influx stimulated phospholipase C activity in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells: responses to K(+) depolarization and histamine

The role of Ca(2+) influx in activating phospholipase C in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells has been investigated. Phospholipase C activity in response to K(+) depolarization (56 mM) was blocked by the L-type Ca(2+) channel antagonist nifedipine and partially inhibited by the omega-conotoxins GVIA and MVIIC. In contrast, phospholipase C activity in response to histamine receptor activation was unaffected by omega-conotoxin GVIA and partially inhibited by omega-conotoxin MVIIC or nifedipine. This response was however markedly inhibited by the non-selective Ca(2+) channel antagonists La(3+) or 1-[beta-[3-(4-Methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoyphenethyl]-H-imidazol e (SKF-96365). Despite this Ca(2+) dependence phospholipase C activity was not increased during periods of "capacitative" Ca(2+) inflow generated by histamine-, caffeine- or thapsigargin-mediated depletion of internal Ca(2+) stores. Thus, while Ca(2+) influx in response to K(+) depolarization or G-protein receptor activation can increase phospholipase C activity in these cells, in the latter case it appears to be ineffective unless there is concurrent agonist occupation of the receptor.

Effect of Gd3+ on bradykinin-induced catecholamine secretion from bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

1. The effects of Gd3+ on bradykinin- (BK-) induced catecholamine secretion, 45Ca2+ efflux and cytosolic [Ca2+] were studied using bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. 2. BK increased secretion in a Ca2+-dependent manner. From 1 - 100 microM, Gd3+ progressively inhibited secretion induced by 30 nM BK to near-basal levels, however from 0.3 - 3 mM Gd3+ dramatically enhanced BK-induced secretion to above control levels. Gd3+ also increased basal catecholamine secretion by 2 - 3 fold at 1 mM. These effects were mimicked by Eu3+ and La3+. 3. Gd3+ enhanced secretion induced by other agonists that mobilize intracellular Ca2+ stores, but simply blocked the response to K+. 4. Gd3+ still enhanced basal and BK-induced secretion in Ca2+-free solution or in the presence of 30 microM SKF96365, however both effects of Gd3+ were abolished after depleting intracellular Ca2+ stores. 5. Gd3+ (1 mM) reduced the rate of basal 45Ca2+ efflux by 57%. In Ca2+-free buffer, BK transiently increased cytosolic [Ca2+] measured with Fura-2. The [Ca2+] response to BK was substantially prolonged in the presence of Gd3+ (1 mM). 6. The results suggest that Gd3+ greatly enhances the efficacy of Ca2+ released from intracellular stores in evoking catecholamine secretion, by inhibiting Ca2+ extrusion from the cytosol. This suggests that intracellular Ca2+ stores are fully competent to support secretion in chromaffin cells to levels comparable to those evoked by extracellular Ca2+ entry. Drugs that modify Ca2+ extrusion from the cell, such as lanthanide ions, will be useful in investigating the mechanisms by which intracellular Ca2+-store mobilization couples to Ca2+-dependent exocytosis.

A current activated on depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores can regulate exocytosis in adrenal chromaffin cells

Exocytosis in excitable cells is strongly coupled to Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated channels but can be evoked by activation of membrane receptors that release Ca2+ from inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate-sensitive internal stores. In many cell types, depletion of Ca2+ stores activates Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, a process known as capacitative or store-operated Ca2+ entry. This influx is mediated by a number of voltage-independent, Ca2+-selective currents. In addition to replenishing Ca2+ stores, these currents are hypothesized to play an important role in agonist-evoked secretion in nonexcitable cells, although this has not been confirmed experimentally. The existence and physiological function of such currents in excitable cells is not known. Using the capacitance detection technique to monitor exocytosis, we provide direct experimental evidence that a similar mechanism exists in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores with thapsigargin, a SERCA pump inhibitor, or with BAPTA, an exogenous Ca2+ chelator, activates a small-amplitude, voltage-independent current that is carried by Ca2+ and Na+ ions. Ca2+ entry through this pathway is sufficient to stimulate exocytosis at negative membrane potentials. In addition, depolarization-evoked exocytosis is markedly facilitated on activation of the current. These data suggest that excitable cells possess a store-operated Ca2+ influx mechanism that may both directly trigger exocytosis and modulate excitation-secretion coupling.

Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in chromaffin cells seen from inside the ER with targeted aequorin

The presence and physiological role of Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) in nonmuscle excitable cells has been investigated only indirectly through measurements of cytosolic [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]c). Using targeted aequorin, we have directly monitored [Ca2+] changes inside the ER ([Ca2+]ER) in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Ca2+ entry induced by cell depolarization triggered a transient Ca2+ release from the ER that was highly dependent on [Ca2+]ER and sensitized by low concentrations of caffeine. Caffeine-induced Ca2+ release was quantal in nature due to modulation by [Ca2+]ER. Whereas caffeine released essentially all the Ca2+ from the ER, inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate (InsP3)- producing agonists released only 60-80%. Both InsP3 and caffeine emptied completely the ER in digitonin-permeabilized cells whereas cyclic ADP-ribose had no effect. Ryanodine induced permanent emptying of the Ca2+ stores in a use-dependent manner after activation by caffeine. Fast confocal [Ca2+]c measurements showed that the wave of [Ca2+]c induced by 100-ms depolarizing pulses in voltage-clamped cells was delayed and reduced in intensity in ryanodine-treated cells. Our results indicate that the ER of chromaffin cells behaves mostly as a single homogeneous thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ pool that can release Ca2+ both via InsP3 receptors or CICR.

Influence of calcium on proliferation and phenotype alteration of cardiomyocyte in vitro

An accelerated weight gain is noted in the heart of Ca-deficient, hypertensive chick embryos maintained in a shell-less culture in vitro. We previously observed that the Ca handling property of cardiomyocytes isolated from the shell-less embryo is altered, i.e., faster Ca uptake, suggesting a requirement for adequate Ca supply and/or proper Ca handling in embryonic cardiac development. In this study, we have examined the function of Ca on cardiomyocytes by analyzing the effects of 1) various Ca concentration in the culture medium (NCa, 1.8 mmol/ L; HCa, 2.8 mmol/L; LCa, 0.9 mmol/L), and 2) various modulators of Ca handling on cell proliferation and phenotype regulation in chick embryonic cardiomyocytes. The analytical parameters included cell number, DNA content, expression of cell cycle-specific and cardiomyocyte-specific proteins, and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzyme activities. Cell number and total DNA were significantly larger (P < 0.01) in LCa cultures compared with those in NCa. The level of LDH was elevated (P < 0.01), but that of CPK was lowered in LCa. Expression of the G1-S-specific protein PCNA was raised, but that of the contractile proteins myosin and tropomyosin was substantially suppressed in LCa; in HCa, the cells did not proliferate as well, whereas the level of contractile proteins was higher. Thapsigargin, a sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-specific, Ca-ATPase inhibitor, simulated the effects of LCa by enhancing cell proliferation and lowering the expression of tropomyosin. These results suggest that culturing in low Ca concentration and inhibition of SR Ca pumping enhance myocardial cell proliferation and suppress sarcomeric protein expression, perhaps by inducing cellular de-differentiation. The in vitro effects of medium Ca concentration and Ca handling modulators on cardiomyocytes also suggest that the in vivo cardiomegaly of the SL embryos is a direct result of Ca-deficiency, and that Ca is important in the phenotype regulation of cardiomyocytes.

AMPA and NMDA receptors expressed by differentiating Xenopus spinal neurons

N-methyl--aspartate (NMDA) receptors are often the first ionotropic glutamate receptors expressed at early stages of development and appear to influence neuronal differentiation by mediating Ca2+ influx. Although less well studied, alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors also can generate Ca2+ elevations and may have developmental roles. We document the presence of AMPA and NMDA class receptors and the absence of kainate class receptors with whole cell voltage-clamp recordings from Xenopus embryonic spinal neurons differentiated in vitro. Reversal potential measurements indicate that AMPA receptors are permeable to Ca2+ both in differentiated neurons and at the time they first are expressed. The PCa/Pmonocation of 1.9 is close to that of cloned Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors expressed in heterologous systems. Ca2+ imaging reveals that Ca2+ elevations are elicited by AMPA or NMDA in the absence of Mg2+. The amplitudes and durations of these agonist-induced Ca2+ elevations are similar to those of spontaneous Ca2+ transients known to act as differentiation signals in these cells. Two sources of Ca2+ amplify AMPA- and NMDA-induced Ca2+ elevations. Activation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels by AMPA- or NMDA-mediated depolarization contributes approximately 15 or 30% of cytosolic Ca2+ elevations, respectively. Activation of either class of receptor produces elevations of Ca2+ that elicit further release of Ca2+ from thapsigargin-sensitive but ryanodine-insensitive stores, contributing an additional approximately 30% of Ca2+ elevations. Voltage-clamp recordings and Ca2+ imaging both show that these spinal neurons express functional AMPA receptors soon after neurite initiation and before expression of NMDA receptors. The Ca2+ permeability of AMPA receptors, their ability to generate significant elevations of [Ca2+]i, and their appearance before synapse formation position them to play roles in neural development. Spontaneous release of agonists from growth cones is detected with glutamate receptors in outside-out patches, suggesting that spinal neurons are early, nonsynaptic sources of glutamate that can influence neuronal differentiation in vivo.

Ca2+-activated K+ currents in rat locus coeruleus neurons induced by experimental ischemia, anoxia, and hypoglycemia

Ca2+-activated K+ currents in rat locus coeruleus neurons induced by experimental ischemia, anoxia, and hypoglycemia. J. Neurophysiol. 78: 2674-2681, 1997. The effects of metabolic inhibition on membrane currents and N-methyl--aspartic acid (NMDA)-induced currents were investigated in dissociated rat locus coeruleus (LC) neurons by using the nystatin perforated patch recording mode under voltage-clamp conditions. Changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) during the metabolic inhibition were also investigated by using the microfluometry with a fluorescent probe, Indo-1. Removal of both the oxygen and glucose (experimental ischemia), deprivation of glucose (hypoglycemia), and a blockade of electron transport by sodium cyanide (NaCN) or a reduction of the mitochondrial membrane potential with carbonyl cyanide-p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-hydrazone(FCCP) as experimental anoxia all induced a slowly developing outward current (IOUT) at a holding potential of -40 mV. The application of 10(-4) M NMDA induced a rapid transient peak and a successive steady state inward current and a transient outward current immediately after washout. All treatments related to metabolic inhibition increased the NMDA-induced outward current(INMDA-OUT) and prolonged the one-half recovery time of INMDA-OUT. The reversal potentials of both IOUT and INMDA-OUT were close to the K+ equilibrium potential (EK) of -82 mV. Either charybdotoxin or tolbutamide inhibited the IOUT and INMDA-OUT, suggesting the contribution of Ca2+-activated and ATP-sensitive K+ channels, even though the inhibitory effect of tolbutamide gradually diminished with time. Under the metabolic inhibition, the basal level of [Ca2+]i was increased and the one-half recovery time of the NMDA-induced increase in [Ca2+]i was prolonged. The IOUT induced by NaCN was inhibited by a continuous treatment of thapsigargin but not by ryanodine, indicating the involvement of inositol 1,4, 5-trisphosphate (IP3)-induced Ca2+ release (IICR) store. These findings suggest that energy deficiency causes Ca2+ release from the IICR store and activates continuous Ca2+-activated K+ channels and transient ATP-sensitive K+ channels in acutely dissociated rat LC neurons.

A caffeine/ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ pool is involved in triggering spontaneous variations of Ca2+ in Jurkat T lymphocytes by a Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) mechanism

Caffeine and ryanodine triggered an increase in [Ca2+]i (73 +/- 22 and 61 +/- 18 nM, respectively) in Jurkat cell populations that was independent of external Ca2+. In individual cells, caffeine and ryanodine induced Ca2+ spikes. Jurkat cell populations initially exposed to caffeine did not respond further to ryanodine and vice versa, suggesting an overlap of the Ca2+ pool that was contained within the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ reserve. [3H]ryanodine bound to a single class of sites of Jurkat microsomes (KD, 18.4 +/- 5.7 nM; Bmax, 24.3 +/- 7.7 fmol/mg protein). Photolytic release (Nitr5) of caged Ca2+ induced a time-dependent increase of Ca2+ in individual Jurkat cells. The profile of the release of Ca2+ was characterized, 1) by a kinetic (0.55 +/- 0.07 nM s-1) slower than the Ca2+ response to caffeine (3.93 +/- 0.66 nM s-1) or to ryanodine (3.96 +/- 0.94 nM s-1), 2) by a release of Ca2+ (131 +/- 43 nM) that slowly returned to baseline and during which low amplitude oscillations were present (room temperature) or Ca2+ spikes (37 degrees C) and, 3) by a lack of dependency on an influx of Ca2+. Inhibitors of CICR (ruthenium red and 1-octanol) prevented the photolysis-dependent increase in [Ca2+]i but not the InsP3-dependent Ca2+ response. Our data suggest that Jurkat T cells possess at least two Ca2+ pools, one that is sensitive to InsP3 and one that is insensitive. These two Ca2+ pools may be involved in a CICR that generates spontaneous Ca2+ spikes and oscillations in these cells.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate- and caffeine-sensitive Ca(2+)-storing organelle in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

The uptake and release properties of Ca2+ by several subcellular fractions of the bovine adrenal medulla were investigated. Investigation by the 45Ca2+ tracer method showed that permeabilized cells and the fractions of mitochondria (MT) and microsomes (MC) caused ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake in a Ca2+ concentration-dependent manner (pCa 8-4), whereas permeabilized cells and the fractions of secretory granules (SG) were able to accumulate a significant amount of Ca2+ even in the absence of ATP, which was completed by the addition of hexokinase and glucose. In these organelle fractions, Ca2+ uptake in the presence of ATP at pCa 7 and pCa 5.8 was well-correlated with the activity of the NADPH cytochrome c reductase (marker enzyme for the endoplasmic reticulum) and cytochrome c oxidase (marker enzyme for mitochondria), respectively. As detected by Fura-2 ratiometry, both inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and caffeine caused concentration-dependent Ca2+ releases from permeabilized cells and MC, but not from MT and SG. In an ATP-depleted condition, homogenates still took up a significant amount of Ca2+ but was not able to respond to IP3 and caffeine. These results suggest that the endoplasmic reticulum is a major Ca(2+)-storing organelle, which releases Ca2+ in response to IP3 and caffeine in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells.

Characteristics of cytosolic Ca2+ elevation induced by muscarinic receptor activation in single adrenal chromaffin cells of the guinea pig

In Fura-2 loaded-single guinea pig adrenal chromaffin cells, muscarine, nicotine and KCl all caused an early peak rise in intracellular Ca concentration ([Ca2+]i) followed by a sustained rise. In Ca(2+)-free solution, muscarine, but neither nicotine nor KCl, caused a transient increase in [Ca2+]i, which was partially reduced by preceding application of caffeine or by treatment with ryanodine plus caffeine. In voltage-clamped cells at a holding potential of -60 mV, the muscarine-induced [Ca2+]i rise, especially its sustained phase, decreased in magnitude. Intracellular application of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate caused a transient increase in [Ca2+]i and inhibited the following [Ca2+]i response to muscarine without affecting responses to nicotine and a depolarizing pulse. Muscarine evoked membrane depolarization following brief hyperpolarization in most cells tested. There was a significant positive correlation between the amplitude of the depolarization and the magnitude of the sustained rise in [Ca2+]i. Muscarine-induced sustained [Ca2+]i rise was much greater in the current-clamp mode than that in the voltage-clamp mode. The sustained phase of [Ca2+]i rise and Mn2+ influx in response to muscarine were suppressed by a voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blocker, methoxyverapamil. These results suggest that stimulation of muscarinic receptors causes not only extracellular Ca2+ entry, but also Ca2+ mobilization from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive intracellular stores. Voltage-dependent Ca(2+)-channels may function as one of the Ca2+ entry pathways activated by muscarinic receptor in guinea pig adrenal chromaffin cells.

Stimulation of secretion from bovine adrenal chromaffin cells by microsecond bursts of therapeutic levels of ultrasound

1. In this study the secretory response of individual bovine adrenal chromaffin cells was monitored using amperometric carbon-fibre microelectrodes. Cells were stimulated to secrete by exposure to 20-100 microseconds long tonebursts of ultrasound (2-4 x 10(5) Pa; peak pressure at 1 MHz). 2. Three types of secretory responses were observed: an almost instantaneous response, a delayed release of catecholamines, or a series of 'burst-like' secretory bouts. 3. Fura-2 measurements of intracellular Ca2+ concentrations showed that the release of catecholamines was accompanied by an increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, secretory responses were not evoked showing that Ca2+ entry was necessary to elicit catecholamine release.

Depleted internal store-activated Ca2+ entry can trigger neurotransmitter release in bovine chromaffin cells

A potential role of the intracellular Ca2+ stores in modulating catecholamine release has been investigated in bovine chromaffin cells maintained in tissue culture. Pharmacological depletion of the stores with a combination of caffeine, histamine and thapsigargin in Ca2+-free media resulted in a significantly greater release of catecholamines on re-exposure to Ca2+-containing media compared with that from non-store depleted cells. The increase in catecholamine release was prevented by intracellular BAPTA indicating that the increase was caused by a rise in Ca2+. Measurement of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration with the fluorescent indicator, fura-2, over the same time-course as the catecholamine release experiments showed that upon restoration of external Ca2+ there was an immediate, substantial and maintained increase in cytosolic Ca2+. It is most probable that the increase in catecholamine release was a consequence of an increase in Ca2+ influx triggered by prior depletion of the internal Ca2+ stores. However, the data suggest that capacitative Ca2+ entry is poorly linked to catecholamine release; although Ca2+ entry on restoration of external Ca2+ was immediate and substantial, the increase in catecholamine release, although quantitatively significant, was slowly realised.

Effects of caffeine on Ca2+ fluxes and secretion in bovine chromaffin cells

The effects of caffeine on Ca2+ fluxes and catecholamine secretion in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells were examined. Caffeine inhibited secretion. 45Ca2+ uptake and cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) rise induced by the nicotinic receptor agonist 1.1-dimethyl- 4-phenylpiperazinium (DMPP) and the Na+ channel activator veratridine. The inhibitory effect of caffeine on high K(+)-induced secretion was smaller than that on DMPP- and veratridine-induced responses. Caffeine only slightly inhibited high K(+)-induced 45Ca2+ uptake and did not affect [Ca2+]i rise. Caffeine also inhibited muscarinic receptor-mediated inositol phosphate generation. Our results suggest that the inhibitory effects of caffeine on bovine chromaffin cells mainly occur at both muscarinic and nicotinic receptors as well as at the voltage-dependent Na+ channels and to a smaller extent at site(s) distal to Ca2+ entry. The effects of caffeine on nicotinic receptors but not on muscarinic receptors can be explained by its ability to raise intracellular cAMP.

Neuronal Ca2+ stores: activation and function

The intracellular concentration of free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) displays complex fluctuations in response to a variety of stimuli, and acts as a pluripotent signal for many neuronal functions. It is well established that various 'metabotropic' neurotransmitter receptors can mediate the mobilization of Ca2+ stores via actions of inositol-polyphosphate second messengers, and more recent evidence suggests that 'ionotropic' receptor-mediated Ca2+ signals in neurones might also involve release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. These two mechanisms of release of Ca2+ enable considerable temporal and spatial complexity of increases in the [Ca2+]i via multiple interactions at the level of intracellular-receptor activation. The complexity of Ca2+ signalling that is elicited via these interconnecting pathways might underlie mechanisms that are central to information transfer and integration within neuronal compartments.

Thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+)-ATPases account for Ca2+ uptake to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive and caffeine-sensitive Ca2+ stores in adrenal chromaffin cells

In chromaffin cells of adrenal medulla, heterogeneity of Ca2+ stores has been suggested with respect to the mechanisms of Ca2+ uptake and release. We have examined Ca(2+)-ATPases responsible for loading of Ca2+ stores in these cells for their sensitivity to thapsigargin, a highly selective inhibitor of the SERCA [sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium ATPase] family of intracellular Ca2+ pumps. Using immunostaining, we studied the distribution of Ca(2+)-ATPases, and of receptors for inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) and ryanodine, in the density-gradient fractions of microsomes from bovine adrenal medulla. In parallel, we examined distribution profiles of ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake in the same fractions, along with subcellular markers for plasma membranes and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Two Ca(2+)-ATPase-like proteins (116 and 100 kDa) were detected, consistent with the presence of SERCA 2b and SERCA 3 isoenzymes of Ca2+ pumps. The distribution of these putative Ca(2+)-ATPase iso-enzymes paralleled that of InsP3 and ryanodine receptors. This distribution of ER Ca(2+)-ATPases, as determined immunologically, was consistent with that of thapsigargin-sensitive, but not of thapsigargin-insensitive, ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake. In contrast, the distribution profile of the thapsigargin-insensitive Ca2+ uptake was strongly correlated to that of plasma membranes, and co-distributed with plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase detected immunologically. In isolated, permeabilized chromaffin cells, InsP3 and caffeine induced Ca2+ release following an ATP-dependent Ca2+ accumulation to the stores. This accumulation was abolished by thapsigargin. Together, these data strongly indicate that the thapsigargin-sensitive, presumably SERCA-type Ca(2+)-ATPases account for Ca2+ uptake to InsP3-sensitive, as well as to caffeine-sensitive, Ca2+ stores in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells.

Activation of nicotinic receptors triggers exocytosis from bovine chromaffin cells in the absence of membrane depolarization

The traditional function of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels is to induce rapid changes in electrical activity. Channels that are Ca(2+)-permeable, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors at depolarized membrane potentials, can have a broader repertoire of consequences, including changes in synaptic efficacy, developmental plasticity, and excitotoxicity. Neuronal nicotinic receptors for acetylcholine (nAChRs) are usually less Ca(2+)-permeable than N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors but have a significant Ca2+ permeability, which is greater at negative potentials. Here we report that in neuroendocrine cells, activation of nAChRs can trigger exocytosis at hyperpolarized potentials. We used whole-cell patch-clamp recordings to record currents and the capacitance detection technique to monitor exocytosis in isolated bovine chromaffin cells. Stimulation of nAChRs at hyperpolarized potentials (-60 or -90 mV) evokes a large current and a maximal capacitance increase corresponding to the fusion of approximately 200 large dense-core vesicles. The amount of exocytosis is controlled both by the Ca2+ influx through nAChRs and by a contribution from thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ sequestering stores. This is a form of neurotransmitter action in which activation of nAChRs triggers secretion through an additional coupling pathway that coexists with classical voltage-dependent Ca2+ entry.

Staurosporine affects calcium homeostasis in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

These studies show that the potent, non-specific, protein kinase inhibitor, staurosporine, disrupts Ca2+ homeostasis in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Staurosporine treatment reduces basal and A23187-stimulated catecholamine release from chromaffin cells, but does not inhibit activated Ca2+ influx. Furthermore, pretreatment with staurosporine also reduces Ca(2+)-stimulated catecholamine release from digitonin-permeabilized cells (t1/2, 40.6 min; IC50, 66.0 nm). However, staurosporine does not inhibit the rise in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in response to nicotine stimulation as measured by fura-2 photometry. These studies demonstrate that staurosporine interferes with the secretory process at some step at or after the rise in [Ca2+]i in adrenal chromaffin cells. Examination of the effects of staurosporine on 45Ca2+ movement shows that staurosporine produces a slowly developing basal 45Ca2+ accumulation; after 30 min no significant change is observed, but by 120 min, 45Ca2+ accumulation is increased by 29.5%. Thapsigargin and 2,5-di-(tert-butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (tBHQ), inhibitors of Ca(2+) ATPases, were used to determine whether staurosporine induced 45Ca2+ accumulation results from sequestration of 45Ca2+ within intracellular stores. While thapsigargin has no significant effect, concomitant treatment with tBHQ prevents the increase in 45Ca2+ uptake associated with staurosporine treatment. Therefore, the tBHQ-sensitive Ca2+ store, but not the thapsigargin/inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ store, appears to be staurosporine-sensitive. Overall, these studies indicate that staurosporine reduces catecholamine release by interfering with Ca2+ homeostasis. Furthermore, this work suggests that a staurosporine-sensitive phosphoprotein(s) is involved with the regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells.

Veratridine-induced oscillations of cytosolic calcium and membrane potential in bovine chromaffin cells

1. Veratridine (VTD) induced large oscillations of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and the membrane potential (Vm) in otherwise silent bovine chromaffin cells loaded with fura-2. 2. Depletion of the intracellular Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin or ryanodine did not affect these oscillations. Caffeine had a complex effect, decreasing them in cells with high activity but increasing them in cells with low activity. 3. The [Ca2+]i oscillations required extracellular Ca2+ and Na+ and were blocked by Ni2+ or tetrodotoxin. They were antagonized by high external concentrations of Mg2+ and/or Ca2+. 4. The oscillations of Vm had three phases: (i) slow depolarization (20 mV in 10-40 s); (ii) further fast depolarization (30 mV in 1 s); and (iii) rapid (5 s) repolarization. [Ca2+]i decreased during (i), increased quickly during (ii) with a 1 s delay with regard to the peak depolarization, and decreased during (iii). 5. Slight depolarizations increased the frequency of the oscillations whereas large depolarizations decreased it. 6. The Ca(2+)-dependent K+ channel blocker apamin increased the duration and decreased the frequency of the oscillations. 7. We propose the following mechanism for the oscillations: (i) the membrane depolarizes slowly by a decrease of potassium conductance (gK), perhaps due to a gradual decrease of [Ca2+]i; (ii) the threshold for activation of Na+ channels (decreased by VTD) is reached, producing further depolarization and recruiting Ca2+ channels, and inactivation of both Ca2+ and VTD-poisoned Na+ channels is slow; and (iii) gK increases, aided by activation of Ca(2+)-dependent K+ channels by the increased [Ca2+]i, and the membrane repolarizes. The contribution of the Na+ channels seems essential for the generation of the oscillations. 8. Bovine chromaffin cells have the machinery required for [Ca2+]i oscillations even though the more physiological stimulus tested here (high K+, field electrical stimulation, nicotinic or muscarinic agonists) produced mainly non-oscillatory responses.

Histamine-induced Ca2+ entry precedes Ca2+ mobilization in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

The relationship between histamine-induced Ca2+ mobilization and Ca2+ entry in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells has been investigated. Stopped-flow fluorimetry of fura-2-loaded chromaffin cell populations revealed that 10 microM histamine promoted entry of Ca2+ or Mn2+ without measurable delay (< or = 20 ms), through a pathway that was insensitive to the dihydropyridine antagonist nifedipine. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, or in the presence of 100 microM La3+, a blocker of receptor-mediated Ca2+ entry, 10 microM histamine triggered an elevation in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), but only after a delay of approx. 200 ms, which presumably represented the time required to mobilize intracellular Ca2+. These data suggested that histamine-induced bivalent-cation entry precedes extensive Ca2+ mobilization in chromaffin cells. In order to confirm that histamine can promote Ca2+ entry largely independently of mobilizing intracellular Ca2+, the ability of histamine to promote Ca2+ entry into cells whose intracellular Ca2+ store had been largely depleted was assessed. Fura-2-loaded chromaffin cells were treated with 10 microM ryanodine together with 40 mM caffeine, to deplete the hormone-sensitive Ca2+ store. This resulted in an approx. 95% inhibition of histamine-induced Ca2+ release. Under these conditions, histamine was still able to promote an entry of Ca2+ that was essentially indistinguishable from that promoted in control cells. In single cells, introduction of heparin (100 mg/ml), but not de-N-sulphated heparin (100 mg/ml), abolished the histamine-induced rise in [Ca2+]i. All these data suggest that histamine can induce G-protein- or inositol phosphate-dependent rapid (< or = 20 ms) Ca2+ entry without an extensive intracellular mobilization response in chromaffin cells, which points to activation of an entry mechanism distinct from the Ca(2+)-release-activated Ca2+ channel found in non-excitable cells.

The secretion of alpha-MSH from xenopus melanotropes involves calcium influx through omega-conotoxin-sensitive voltage-operated calcium channels

The secretory activity of endocrine cells largely depends on the concentration of free cytosolic calcium. We have studied the mechanisms that are involved in supplying the calcium necessary for the secretion of alpha-melanophore-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) from melanotrope cells in the pituitary intermediate lobe of the amphibian Xenopus laevis. Using whole-cell voltage clamp, high-voltage activated calcium currents were observed, with a peak current between 0 and +20 mV. Two types of Ca(2+)-currents appeared, depending on the experimental setup. An inactivating current, which was observed after a 10 msec depolarizing prepulse, resembled currents through N-type channels as it was clearly inhibited by 1 microM omega-conotoxin. The second type was a non-inactivating current, which was blocked up to 50% by 1 microM nifedipine, indicating its L-type nature. Only a small component of this inactivating current could be blocked by omega-conotoxin. No evidence was found for the presence of transient, low-voltage activated currents. The spontaneous secretion of alpha-MSH from superfused neurointermediate lobes was dependent on extracellular calcium, as low calcium conditions (10(-4)-10(-8) M) rapidly inhibited this process. Under these conditions, secretion was not affected by depolarizing concentrations of potassium chloride. The calcium ionophore A23187 increased secretion under low calcium conditions, but had no effect on spontaneous alpha-MSH release. These results suggest that spontaneous alpha-MSH release depends on influx of calcium through voltage-operated calcium channels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Functionally and spatially distinct Ca2+ stores are revealed in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells

Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ in vascular smooth muscle may be separated into at least two types of Ca2+ stores, one releasable by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and the other releasable by caffeine and ryanodine. We employed digital imaging with fura-2 to study the effects of thapsigargin (which blocks Ca2+ sequestration in the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive store) and caffeine on the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in cultured arterial myocytes. These agents increased [Ca2+]cyt by depleting different Ca2+ stores in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Moreover, Ca2+ could be transferred between the two stores, as prior application of caffeine, which alone evoked little or no rise in [Ca2+]cyt, significantly augmented the response to thapsigargin. Conversely, a substantial caffeine-induced rise in [Ca2+]cyt was observed only after the ability of the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ store to sequester Ca2+ was inhibited. This suggests that the caffeine-sensitive store may have a thapsigargin-insensitive Ca(2+)-sequestration mechanism. To complement these fura-2 experiments, chlortetracycline was used to visualize the Ca2+ stores directly. The latter studies revealed spatial differences in the location of the thapsigargin-sensitive and caffeine-sensitive Ca2+ stores (measured as thapsigargin-sensitive and caffeine-sensitive chlortetracycline fluorescence). Thus, these two types of stores appear to be both functionally and spatially distinct.

Sensitivity to protein kinase C inhibitors of nicardipine-insensitive component of high K+ contracture in rat and guinea-pig aorta

1. In the rat and guinea-pig aorta, we observed that the contraction to hypertonically-added K+, unlike the isotonic K(+)-induced contraction, was only partially sensitive to nicardipine (0.1, 1 and 10 microM), an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker and occurred in Ca(2+)-free medium containing 50 microM EGTA. We have characterized this nicardipine-insensitive hypertonically-added K+ contraction. 2. The contraction induced by an equi-osmolar concentration of mannitol was similar in size to that evoked by hypertonically-added K+. 3. When the tissue was depleted of its internal Ca2+ stores with various agents such as phenylephrine (10 microM) cyclopiazonic acid (30 microM), thapsigargin (1 microM) or ryanodine (30 microM), or by incubation in Ca(2+)-free medium over 30 min, little effect was observed on the high K+ contracture in the presence of L-type Ca2+ channel blockade. 4. Phentolamine (10 microM) or indomethacin (10 microM) did not reduce the contraction induced by high K+. 5. Application of a protein kinase C inhibitor, H7 (10, 30 and 100 microM) or calphostin C (1 microM), reduced the high K+ contraction but not that caused by an equi-osmolar concentration of mannitol. 6. The data suggest that hypertonic K(+)-induced contraction differs from that caused by hypertonicity or depolarization per se and invokes membrane enzyme activation.

A caffeine- and ryanodine-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ store can act as a Ca2+ source and a Ca2+ sink in PC12 cells

We have investigated the modulation of stimulus-induced changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) by a caffeine-and ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ store in PC12 cells. In populations of fura-2-loaded cells, caffeine cause a concentration-dependent increase in [Ca2+]i that was saturable, reversible and inhibited in a use-dependent fashion by ryanodine. Maximal Ca2+ release occurred with 40 mM caffeine, with an EC50 of 13 mM caffeine and a Hill coefficient (h) of 2.7, indicating that the release mechanism was co-operative. Pretreatment of intact cell populations with increasing concentrations of caffeine in nominally Ca(2+)-free medium inhibited the subsequent Ca2+ response to a maximal concentration of ATP, in a dose-dependent manner. In permeabilized cells, a maximal concentration (40 microM) of InsP3 still released Ca2+ in the presence of a supramaximal concentration (50 mM) of caffeine, whereas caffeine was unable to release Ca2+ after the InsP3-sensitive store had been completely emptied. These data suggest that PC12 cells contain a uniquely InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ store, and a store that is sensitive to both InsP3 and caffeine. Depletion of the caffeine-sensitive Ca2+ store by caffeine and ryanodine pretreatment in intact cells attenuated the Ca2+ response to ATP, but not to 55 mM K+, suggesting that the caffeine-sensitive Ca2+ store acts as a Ca2+ source after ATP stimulation, but not after depolarization with 55 mM K+. Pretreatment of intact cells with ATP and ryanodine resulted in a use-dependent block of both caffeine- and ATP-mediated Ca2+ release, confirming that ATP stimulation of PC12 cells brings about activation of ryanodine receptors. The rate of recovery, but not the magnitude or rate of onset, of the depolarization-induced [Ca2+]i transient was modulated by the state of filling of the caffeine-sensitive Ca2+ store such that recovery was prolonged if the store was either full, or empty and unable to refill. We conclude that the caffeine- and ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ store can act as a Ca2+ source and a Ca2+ sink in PC12 cells, and that its role may in part be governed by the nature of the stimulating agent.

Polyamine transport regulation by calcium and calmodulin: role of Ca(2+)-ATPase

The study was conducted on human leukemia (K 562) cells to characterize the mechanisms implicated in the regulation of the polyamine spermidine (Spd) transport process. The antagonists of calmodulin, trifluoperazine (TFP), W-7 (N-[6-aminohexyl]-5-chloro-1-naphthelenesulfonamide), or mellitin inhibited significantly polyamine Spd uptake in these cells. The translocation of calmodulin towards plasma membrane and a concomitant decrease in its contents in cytosol were directly correlated with the time course increases similar to that of Spd uptake, indicating that calmodulin is recruited towards plasma membrane during the Spd transport process. Diminution of free intracellular calcium, (Ca2+)i, by preincubating the cells in BAPTA (bis[2-amino-5-methylphenoxyl]-ethane-N,N,N',N',-tetraacetate) buffer inhibited Spd transport significantly. Addition of lanthanum (LAN), a molecule known to inhibit Ca2+ efflux via Ca(2+)-ATPase, curtailed Spd uptake by these cells. LAN inhibited Vmax, but not the Km, of Spd uptake, indicating that the former does not directly interact with the polyamine transporter; rather it regulates the transport process, probably via its action on Ca(2+)-ATPase. Calmodulin-stimulated uptake of 45Ca2+ by inside-out vesicles of K 562 cells, a measure of Ca(2+)-ATPase activity. Furthermore, addition of LAN inhibited both basal and calmodulin-stimulated activity of Ca(2+)-ATPase. Thapsigargin (THAP), a molecule known to elevate (Ca2+)i due to its action on the endoplasmic reticulum, increased Spd transport whereas addition of LAN inhibited THAP-stimulated Spd transport activity. THAP increased free (Ca2+)i in these cells, and a pre-addition of LAN to these cells curtailed the THAP-stimulated increases of (Ca2+)i concentrations. Addition of Spd brought about elevations in (Ca2+)i contents. Caffeine also increased (Ca2+)i in these cells; however, it failed to stimulate significantly the Spd uptake process, indicating that (Ca2+)i which is involved in the regulation of polyamine transport pathways does not belong to the calcium-induced calcium-release (CICR) pool. Replacement of Ca2+ from the incubation medium (i.e., 0% Ca2+) resulted in higher uptake activity as compared to that in 100% Ca2+ medium, demonstrating that in 100% Ca2+ medium the calcium efflux process is quickly compensated by calcium refilling/influx from the extracellular medium, while in 0% Ca2+ medium there is perpetual efflux of (Ca2+)i which contributes to higher Spd uptake process. The results of this study suggest that an increase in free (Ca2+)i and its release from the cells via Ca(2+)-ATPase, and concomitant activation of calmodulin, which controls Ca(2+)-pump activity, are involved in the regulation of the Spd uptake process in human leukemia cells.

Association of the hepatic IP3 receptor with the plasma membrane: relevance to mode of action

Studies were carried out to characterize the interaction between inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors and the plasma membrane fraction. Extraction of the membranes with the nonionic detergents Nonidet P-40 and Triton X-100, followed by centrifugation at 100,000 g, resulted in the doubling of the IP3 receptor in the pellets, whereas no detectable binding was found in the supernatants. These data indicate that the detergents did not solubilize the receptor, that it remained associated with membrane particles, and that it is likely to be associated with the cytoskeleton. The cytoskeleton proteins actin, ankyrin, and spectrin were identified in the plasma membrane fraction. However, comparison of the amount of these proteins in different fractions of the detergent, or otherwise treated plasma membrane fractions, showed no direct correlation between the presence of any of these proteins in the plasma membrane fraction and their ability to bind [3H]IP3. This is in contrast to the brain and T-lymphoma cells in which the IP3 receptor is attached to ankyrin (L. Y. W. Bourguigon, H. Jin, N. Iida, N. R. Brandt, and S. H. Zhang. J. Biol. Chem. 268: 6477-6486, 1993; and S. K. Joseph and S. Samanta. J. Biol. Chem 268: 6477-6486, 1993). Thus the hepatic IP3 receptor, which is different from the brain receptor, might attach to the cytoskeleton by anchoring to a different protein. Because cytochalasin D treatment of livers diminishes the ability of IP3 to raise cytosolic free Ca2+ levels, the attachment of the IP3 receptor to the cytoskeleton seems to involve an association with microfilaments.

Potassium currents operated by thyrotrophin-releasing hormone in dissociated CA1 pyramidal neurones of rat hippocampus

1. Membrane currents activated by thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) were investigated in the dissociated rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurone using the nystatin perforated patch recording configuration. 2. Under current-clamp condition, TRH caused a transient hyperpolarization accompanied by a decrease of firing activity and a successive long-lasting depolarization. The latter induced a blockade of firing. 3. When neurones were held at a holding potential (VH) of -40 mV under voltage clamp, TRH elicited a transient outward current with an increase in the membrane conductance, which was followed by a sustained inward current with a decrease in membrane conductance. The inactive TRH metabolite, TRH free acid, did not induce any currents. 4. The reversal potential of TRH-induced outward current (ETRH) was close to the K+ equilibrium potential (EK). The change in ETRH for a 10-fold change in extracellular K+ concentration was 56.4 mV, indicating that the membrane behaves like a K+ electrode in the presence of TRH. On the other hand, the TRH-induced inward current was due to suppression of a slow inward current relaxation during hyperpolarizing voltage commands to -50 mV from a VH of -40 mV, indicating the suppression of the voltage- and time-dependent component of the K+ current (M-current). 5. The TRH-induced outward current (ITRH) increased in a concentration-dependent manner over the concentration range 10(-8)-10(-6) M. The half-maximum concentration was 7.4 x 10(-8) M and the Hill coefficient was 1.5. 6. The TRH-induced outward current (ITRH) was antagonized by K+ channel blockers such as tetraethylammonium (TEA), 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) and Ba2+ in a concentration-dependent manner. ITRH was insensitive to both apamin and iberiotoxin. 7. The first application of TRH to neurones perfused with Ca(2+)-free external solution containing 2 mM EGTA could induce ITRH but the TRH response diminished dramatically with successive applications. Intracellular perfusion with a Ca2+ chelator, 1,2-bis(O-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA), also diminished the TRH response. 8. The depletion of Ca2+ from the intracellular Ca2+ store by thapsigargin blocked the TRH response without affecting the caffeine response. Pretreatment with Li+ significantly enhanced ITRH, suggesting that ITRH is involved in the elevation of intracellular free Ca2+ released from the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-sensitive Ca2+ store site but not from the caffeine-sensitive one. 9. Staurosporine, a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, suppressed ITRH in a concentration-dependent manner (the half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50), was 2.45 x 10(-8) M).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Intracellular calcium waves generated by Ins(1,4,5)P3-dependent mechanisms

Cellular oscillations of cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) have been observed in many cell types in response to cell surface receptor agonists acting through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3). In a number of cases where appropriate spatial and temporal resolution have been used to examine these [Ca2+]i oscillations, they have been found to be organized as repetitive waves of Ca2+ increase that propagate through the cytosol of individual cells. In some cases Ca2+ waves also occur as a single pass through stimulated cells. This review discusses the factors underlying the spatial organization of [Ca2+]i signals in the form of Ca2+ waves. In addition, potential mechanisms for the initiation and subsequent propagation of these Ca2+ waves are described.

Isolation of chromaffin cell thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ store in light microsomes from bovine adrenal medulla

1. A subcellular fractionation procedure for bovine adrenal glands was designed with the aim to study the biochemical properties of Ca2+ stores in chromaffin cells. 2. The thapsigargin-sensitive compartment of Ca2+ stores was found to be highly enriched in a light microsomal fraction (LMF) on a 15-30% linear sucrose gradient, and was found to be essentially devoid of contamination by plasma, mitochondrial or secretory granule membranes. 3. A Ca(2+)-pumping ATPase was identified in this LMF as a 97 kDa protein forming an acid-stable, Ca(2+)-dependent, thapsigargin-sensitive phosphorylated intermediate upon incubation with [gamma-32P]ATP, suggesting this protein to represent a SERCA-3 isoform of Ca2+ ATPases. 4. A major 162 kDa protein, previously demonstrated in the isolated chromaffin cells, was enriched in the LMF, distributing on sucrose gradients in parallel with the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ uptake. 5. LMF appears to represent a part of the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ store of chromaffin cells, and should be useful for further studies of the store properties at the subcellular and molecular level.

Intracellular Ca2+ pools in Jurkat T-lymphocytes

Jurkat T-lymphocytes comprise at least four intracellular Ca2+ pools. Pool I was agonist-sensitive and contained 23 +/- 8% (n = 18) of the total Ca(2+)-storage capacity, as shown in intact cells in the presence of EGTA. The time courses of the agonist-induced formation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 and of the Ca2+ release from pool I were nearly superimposable, indicating that the agonist-sensitive pool I is emptied by Ins(1,4,5)P3. Likewise, in permeabilized cells, the size of the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ pool I was 27 +/- 11% (n = 14). Pool II contained 26 +/- 5% (n = 9) of intracellularly stored Ca2+ and was liberated by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) Ca(2+)-ATPase. Addition of thapsigargin before addition of agonist abolished the agonist-induced Ca2+ release in both intact and permeabilized cells, indicating that pool I is a subcompartment of the ER Ca2+ pool. The content of this ER Ca2+ pool (pools I and II) amounted to 51 +/- 15% (n = 9) in intact cells and 49 +/- 16% (n = 16) in permeabilized cells. Caffeine released Ca2+ even when the ER pool (pools I and II) was emptied by previous addition of thapsigargin, indicating the presence of a third pool independent of pools I and II. Pool III contained 23 +/- 6% (n = 8) in intact cells, but 41 +/- 8% (n = 5) in permeabilized cells. The remaining intracellularly stored Ca2+ was released by addition of the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin. This fourth pool contained 27 +/- 8% (n = 9) in intact cells, but less than 10% in permeabilized cells. The size of pool III was increased when pools I and II were emptied before addition of caffeine, whereas the size of pool IV was decreased under such conditions. In conclusion, this first comprehensive description of intracellular Ca2+ pools in Jurkat T-lymphocytes demonstrates the presence of four different Ca2+ pools, provides estimates of their sizes and describes relationships between each other. Release of Ca2+ from pool I [Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive] has previously been shown to play a major role in T-cell activation, whereas the physiological role of pools II-IV remains to be established.

Intracellular Ca2+ stores of rat cerebellum: heterogeneity within and distinction from endoplasmic reticulum

Rat cerebellum microsomes were subfractionated on isopycnic linear sucrose (20-42%)-density gradients. The distribution of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) markers (RNA, signal-sequence receptor alpha, calnexin, calreticulin, the immunoglobulin-binding protein Bip) and markers of intracellular rapidly exchanging Ca2+ stores [Ca2+ channels sensitive to either Ins(1,4,5)P3 or ryanodine) was investigated biochemically and immunologically. The comparison indicates that: (a) vesicles bearing the InsP3 receptor were separated from those bearing the ryanodine receptor; (b) ER markers, i.e. Bip, calnexin, signal-sequence receptor alpha, RNA, did not sediment as either InsP3 or ryanodine receptors did; (c) calreticulin, an intralumenal low-affinity high-capacity Ca(2+)-binding protein, had a widespread distribution, similar to that of Bip and calnexin, and was present in Purkinje, granule, Golgi and stellate neurons, as indicated by immunofluorescent labelling of cerebellum cortex cryosections. The present results show that the ER is not a homogeneous entity, and that Ca2+ stores are heterogeneous insofar as InsP3 receptors and ryanodine receptors are segregated, either to discrete intracellular organelles or to specialized ER subcompartments.

One-pool model for Ca2+ oscillations involving Ca2+ and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate as co-agonists for Ca2+ release

Experimental observations indicate that Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) may underlie Ca2+ oscillations in a variety of cells. In its original version, a theoretical model for signal-induced Ca2+ oscillations based on CICR assumed the existence of two types of pools, one sensitive to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and the other one sensitive to Ca2+. Recent experiments indicate that Ca2+ channels may sometimes be sensitive to both IP3 and Ca2+. Such a regulation may be viewed as Ca(2+)-sensitized IP3-induced Ca2+ release or, alternatively, as a form of IP3-sensitized CICR. We show that sustained oscillations can still occur in a one-pool model, provided that the same Ca2+ channels are sensitive to both Ca2+ and IP3 behaving as co-agonists. This model and the two-pool model based on CICR both account for a number of experimental observations but differ in some respects. Thus, while in the two-pool model the latency and period of Ca2+ oscillations are of the same order of magnitude and correlate in a roughly linear manner, latency in the one-pool model is always brief and remains much shorter than the period of oscillations. Moreover, the first Ca2+ spike is much larger than the following ones in the one-pool model. These distinctive properties might provide an explanation for the differences in Ca2+ oscillations observed in various cell types.