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Lickiss B, Hunker J, Bhagwan J, Linder P, Thomas U, Lotay H, Broadbent S, Dragicevic E, Stoelzle-Feix S, Turner J, Gossmann M. Chamber-specific contractile responses of atrial and ventricular hiPSC-cardiomyocytes to GPCR and ion channel targeting compounds: A microphysiological system for cardiac drug development. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2024; 128:107529. [PMID: 38857637 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2024.107529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) have found utility for conducting in vitro drug screening and disease modelling to gain crucial insights into pharmacology or disease phenotype. However, diseases such as atrial fibrillation, affecting >33 M people worldwide, demonstrate the need for cardiac subtype-specific cells. Here, we sought to investigate the base characteristics and pharmacological differences between commercially available chamber-specific atrial or ventricular hiPSC-CMs seeded onto ultra-thin, flexible PDMS membranes to simultaneously measure contractility in a 96 multi-well format. We investigated the effects of GPCR agonists (acetylcholine and carbachol), a Ca2+ channel agonist (S-Bay K8644), an HCN channel antagonist (ivabradine) and K+ channel antagonists (4-AP and vernakalant). We observed differential effects between atrial and ventricular hiPSC-CMs on contractile properties including beat rate, beat duration, contractile force and evidence of arrhythmias at a range of concentrations. As an excerpt of the compound analysis, S-Bay K8644 treatment showed an induced concentration-dependent transient increase in beat duration of atrial hiPSC-CMs, whereas ventricular cells showed a physiological increase in beat rate over time. Carbachol treatment produced marked effects on atrial cells, such as increased beat duration alongside a decrease in beat rate over time, but only minimal effects on ventricular cardiomyocytes. In the context of this chamber-specific pharmacology, we not only add to contractile characterization of hiPSC-CMs but propose a multi-well platform for medium-throughput early compound screening. Overall, these insights illustrate the key pharmacological differences between chamber-specific cardiomyocytes and their application on a multi-well contractility platform to gain insights for in vitro cardiac liability studies and disease modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Hunker
- innoVitro GmbH, Artilleriestr 2, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Jamie Bhagwan
- Axol Bioscience Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Peter Linder
- innoVitro GmbH, Artilleriestr 2, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Thomas
- Nanion Technologies GmbH, Ganghoferstr 70A, 80339 Munich, Germany
| | - Hardeep Lotay
- Axol Bioscience Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Steven Broadbent
- Axol Bioscience Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Elena Dragicevic
- Nanion Technologies GmbH, Ganghoferstr 70A, 80339 Munich, Germany
| | | | - Jan Turner
- Axol Bioscience Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
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Hennis K, Piantoni C, Biel M, Fenske S, Wahl-Schott C. Pacemaker Channels and the Chronotropic Response in Health and Disease. Circ Res 2024; 134:1348-1378. [PMID: 38723033 PMCID: PMC11081487 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.323250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Loss or dysregulation of the normally precise control of heart rate via the autonomic nervous system plays a critical role during the development and progression of cardiovascular disease-including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. While the clinical significance of regulating changes in heart rate, known as the chronotropic effect, is undeniable, the mechanisms controlling these changes remain not fully understood. Heart rate acceleration and deceleration are mediated by increasing or decreasing the spontaneous firing rate of pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. During the transition from rest to activity, sympathetic neurons stimulate these cells by activating β-adrenergic receptors and increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate. The same signal transduction pathway is targeted by positive chronotropic drugs such as norepinephrine and dobutamine, which are used in the treatment of cardiogenic shock and severe heart failure. The cyclic adenosine monophosphate-sensitive hyperpolarization-activated current (If) in pacemaker cells is passed by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels and is critical for generating the autonomous heartbeat. In addition, this current has been suggested to play a central role in the chronotropic effect. Recent studies demonstrate that cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent regulation of HCN4 (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channel isoform 4) acts to stabilize the heart rate, particularly during rapid rate transitions induced by the autonomic nervous system. The mechanism is based on creating a balance between firing and recently discovered nonfiring pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. In this way, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels may protect the heart from sinoatrial node dysfunction, secondary arrhythmia of the atria, and potentially fatal tachyarrhythmia of the ventricles. Here, we review the latest findings on sinoatrial node automaticity and discuss the physiological and pathophysiological role of HCN pacemaker channels in the chronotropic response and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Hennis
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Chiara Piantoni
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Martin Biel
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Stefanie Fenske
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Christian Wahl-Schott
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
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3
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Kayser A, Dittmann S, Šarić T, Mearini G, Verkerk AO, Schulze-Bahr E. The W101C KCNJ5 Mutation Induces Slower Pacing by Constitutively Active GIRK Channels in hiPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15290. [PMID: 37894977 PMCID: PMC10607318 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the KCNJ5 gene, encoding one of the major subunits of cardiac G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels, have been recently linked to inherited forms of sinus node dysfunction. Here, the pathogenic mechanism of the W101C KCNJ5 mutation underlying sinus bradycardia in a patient-derived cellular disease model of sinus node dysfunction (SND) was investigated. A human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs) line of a mutation carrier was generated, and CRISPR/Cas9-based gene targeting was used to correct the familial mutation as a control line. Both cell lines were further differentiated into cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) that robustly expressed GIRK channels which underly the acetylcholine-regulated K+ current (IK,ACh). hiPSC-CMs with the W101C KCNJ5 mutation (hiPSCW101C-CM) had a constitutively active IK,ACh under baseline conditions; the application of carbachol was able to increase IK,ACh, further indicating that not all available cardiac GIRK channels were open at baseline. Additionally, hiPSCW101C-CM had a more negative maximal diastolic potential (MDP) and a slower pacing frequency confirming the bradycardic phenotype. Of note, the blockade of the constitutively active GIRK channel with XAF-1407 rescued the phenotype. These results provide further mechanistic insights and may pave the way for the treatment of SND patients with GIRK channel dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Kayser
- Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany (S.D.); (E.S.-B.)
| | - Sven Dittmann
- Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany (S.D.); (E.S.-B.)
| | - Tomo Šarić
- Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute for Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Giulia Mearini
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Arie O. Verkerk
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Schulze-Bahr
- Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany (S.D.); (E.S.-B.)
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4
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Meyer KM, Malhotra N, Kwak JS, El Refaey M. Relevance of KCNJ5 in Pathologies of Heart Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10849. [PMID: 37446026 PMCID: PMC10341679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormalities in G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels have been implicated in diseased states of the cardiovascular system; however, the role of GIRK4 (Kir3.4) in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology has yet to be completely understood. Within the heart, the KACh channel, consisting of two GIRK1 and two GIRK4 subunits, plays a major role in modulating the parasympathetic nervous system's influence on cardiac physiology. Being that GIRK4 is necessary for the functional KACh channel, KCNJ5, which encodes GIRK4, it presents as a therapeutic target for cardiovascular pathology. Human variants in KCNJ5 have been identified in familial hyperaldosteronism type III, long QT syndrome, atrial fibrillation, and sinus node dysfunction. Here, we explore the relevance of KCNJ5 in each of these diseases. Further, we address the limitations and complexities of discerning the role of KCNJ5 in cardiovascular pathophysiology, as identical human variants of KCNJ5 have been identified in several diseases with overlapping pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karisa M. Meyer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiac Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (K.M.M.); (N.M.); (J.s.K.)
- The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nipun Malhotra
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiac Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (K.M.M.); (N.M.); (J.s.K.)
- The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jung seo Kwak
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiac Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (K.M.M.); (N.M.); (J.s.K.)
- The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mona El Refaey
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiac Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (K.M.M.); (N.M.); (J.s.K.)
- The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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5
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Peukert S, Gulgeze Efthymiou HB, Mo R, Peng Y, Ma F, Barbe G, Bebernitz G, Fridrich C, Buono C, Williams ET, Daniels T, Li L, Zhang X, Adachi Y, Abe M, Taggart AKP. Discovery of a brain-sparing GIRK1/4 inhibitor for pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 85:129237. [PMID: 36924945 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, and a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke and heart failure. Marketed anti-arrhythmic drugs can restore sinus rhythm, but with limited efficacy and significant toxicities, including potential to induce ventricular arrhythmia. Atrial-selective ion channel drugs are expected to restore and maintain sinus rhythm without risk of ventricular arrhythmia. One such atrial-selective channel target is GIRK1/4 (G-protein regulated inwardly rectifying potassium channel 1/4). Here we describe 14b, a potent GIRK1/4 inhibitor developed to cardiovert AF to sinus rhythm while minimizing central nervous system exposure - an issue with preceding GIRK1/4 clinical candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Peukert
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | | | - Ruowei Mo
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yunshan Peng
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Fupeng Ma
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Guillaume Barbe
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Cary Fridrich
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Chiara Buono
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Eric T Williams
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Thomas Daniels
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Lisha Li
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Xia Zhang
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yuichiro Adachi
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mie Abe
- Former Novartis Employee, USA
| | - Andrew K P Taggart
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, 181 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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6
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Karatela MF, Fudim M, Mathew JP, Piccini JP. Neuromodulation therapy for atrial fibrillation. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:100-111. [PMID: 35988908 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation has a multifactorial pathophysiology influenced by cardiac autonomic innervation. Both sympathetic and parasympathetic influences are profibrillatory. Innovative therapies targeting the neurocardiac axis include catheter ablation or pharmacologic suppression of ganglionated plexi, renal sympathetic denervation, low-level vagal stimulation, and stellate ganglion blockade. To date, these therapies have variable efficacy. As our understanding of atrial fibrillation and the cardiac nervous system expands, our approach to therapeutic neuromodulation will continue evolving for the benefit of those with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maham F Karatela
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Marat Fudim
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Joseph P Mathew
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan P Piccini
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina.
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7
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Chang M, Gada KD, Chidipi B, Tsalatsanis A, Gibbons J, Remily-Wood E, Logothetis DE, Oberstaller J, Noujaim SF. I KACh is constitutively active via PKC epsilon in aging mediated atrial fibrillation. iScience 2022; 25:105442. [PMID: 36388956 PMCID: PMC9650037 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common abnormal heart rhythm, is a major cause for stroke. Aging is a significant risk factor for AF; however, specific ionic pathways that can elucidate how aging leads to AF remain elusive. We used young and old wild-type and PKC epsilon- (PKCϵ) knockout mice, whole animal, and cellular electrophysiology, as well as whole heart, and cellular imaging to investigate how aging leads to the aberrant functioning of a potassium current, and consequently to AF facilitation. Our experiments showed that knocking out PKCϵ abrogates the effects of aging on AF by preventing the development of a constitutively active acetylcholine sensitive inward rectifier potassium current (IKACh). Moreover, blocking this abnormal current in the old heart reduces AF inducibility. Our studies demonstrate that in the aging heart, IKACh is constitutively active in a PKCϵ-dependent manner, contributing to the perpetuation of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Chang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Kirin D. Gada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bojjibabu Chidipi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Athanasios Tsalatsanis
- College of Medicine Office of Research, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Justin Gibbons
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Elizabeth Remily-Wood
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Diomedes E. Logothetis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Sami F. Noujaim
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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8
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Kuß J, Stallmeyer B, Goldstein M, Rinné S, Pees C, Zumhagen S, Seebohm G, Decher N, Pott L, Kienitz MC, Schulze-Bahr E. Familial Sinus Node Disease Caused by a Gain of GIRK (G-Protein Activated Inwardly Rectifying K + Channel) Channel Function. CIRCULATION-GENOMIC AND PRECISION MEDICINE 2020; 12:e002238. [PMID: 30645171 DOI: 10.1161/circgen.118.002238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited forms of sinus node dysfunction (SND) clinically include bradycardia, sinus arrest, and chronotropic incompetence and may serve as disease models to understand sinus node physiology and impulse generation. Recently, a gain-of-function mutation in the G-protein gene GNB2 led to enhanced activation of the GIRK (G-protein activated inwardly rectifying K+ channel). Thus, human cardiac GIRK channels are important for heart rate regulation and subsequently, genes encoding their subunits Kir3.1 and Kir3.4 ( KCNJ3 and KCNJ5) are potential candidates for inherited SND in human. METHODS We performed a combined approach of targeted sequencing of KCNJ3 and KCNJ5 in 52 patients with idiopathic SND and subsequent whole exome sequencing of additional family members in a genetically affected patient. A putative novel disease-associated gene variant was functionally analyzed by voltage-clamp experiments using various heterologous cell expression systems (Xenopus oocytes, CHO cells, and rat atrial cardiomyocytes). RESULTS In a 3-generation family with SND we identified a novel variant in KCNJ5 which leads to an amino acid substitution (p.Trp101Cys) in the first transmembrane domain of the Kir3.4 subunit of the cardiac GIRK channel. The identified variant cosegregated with the disease in the family and was absent in the Exome Variant Server and Exome Aggregation Consortium databases. Expression of mutant Kir3.4 (±native Kir3.1) in different heterologous cell expression systems resulted in increased GIRK currents ( IK,ACh) and a reduced inward rectification which was not compensated by intracellular spermidine. Moreover, in silico modeling of heterotetrameric mutant GIRK channels indicates a structurally altered binding site for spermine. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, an inherited gain-of-function mutation in the human GIRK3.4 causes familial human SND. The increased activity of GIRK channels is likely to lead to a sustained hyperpolarization of pacemaker cells and thereby reduces heart rate. Modulation of human GIRK channels may pave a way for further treatment of cardiac pacemaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kuß
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, Germany (J.K., B.S., S.Z., G.S., E.S.-B.)
| | - Birgit Stallmeyer
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, Germany (J.K., B.S., S.Z., G.S., E.S.-B.)
| | - Matthias Goldstein
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Vegetative Physiology, University of Marburg, Germany (M.G., S.R., N.D.)
| | - Susanne Rinné
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Vegetative Physiology, University of Marburg, Germany (M.G., S.R., N.D.)
| | - Christiane Pees
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Children's Hospital Vienna, Austria (C.P.)
| | - Sven Zumhagen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, Germany (J.K., B.S., S.Z., G.S., E.S.-B.)
| | - Guiscard Seebohm
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, Germany (J.K., B.S., S.Z., G.S., E.S.-B.)
| | - Niels Decher
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Vegetative Physiology, University of Marburg, Germany (M.G., S.R., N.D.)
| | - Lutz Pott
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute of Physiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany (L.P., M.-C.K.)
| | - Marie-Cécile Kienitz
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute of Physiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany (L.P., M.-C.K.)
| | - Eric Schulze-Bahr
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Institute for Genetics of Heart Diseases (IfGH), University Hospital Münster, Germany (J.K., B.S., S.Z., G.S., E.S.-B.)
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9
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Yamada N, Asano Y, Fujita M, Yamazaki S, Inanobe A, Matsuura N, Kobayashi H, Ohno S, Ebana Y, Tsukamoto O, Ishino S, Takuwa A, Kioka H, Yamashita T, Hashimoto N, Zankov DP, Shimizu A, Asakura M, Asanuma H, Kato H, Nishida Y, Miyashita Y, Shinomiya H, Naiki N, Hayashi K, Makiyama T, Ogita H, Miura K, Ueshima H, Komuro I, Yamagishi M, Horie M, Kawakami K, Furukawa T, Koizumi A, Kurachi Y, Sakata Y, Minamino T, Kitakaze M, Takashima S. Mutant KCNJ3 and KCNJ5 Potassium Channels as Novel Molecular Targets in Bradyarrhythmias and Atrial Fibrillation. Circulation 2020; 139:2157-2169. [PMID: 30764634 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.118.036761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bradyarrhythmia is a common clinical manifestation. Although the majority of cases are acquired, genetic analysis of families with bradyarrhythmia has identified a growing number of causative gene mutations. Because the only ultimate treatment for symptomatic bradyarrhythmia has been invasive surgical implantation of a pacemaker, the discovery of novel therapeutic molecular targets is necessary to improve prognosis and quality of life. METHODS We investigated a family containing 7 individuals with autosomal dominant bradyarrhythmias of sinus node dysfunction, atrial fibrillation with slow ventricular response, and atrioventricular block. To identify the causative mutation, we conducted the family-based whole exome sequencing and genome-wide linkage analysis. We characterized the mutation-related mechanisms based on the pathophysiology in vitro. After generating a transgenic animal model to confirm the human phenotypes of bradyarrhythmia, we also evaluated the efficacy of a newly identified molecular-targeted compound to upregulate heart rate in bradyarrhythmias by using the animal model. RESULTS We identified one heterozygous mutation, KCNJ3 c.247A>C, p.N83H, as a novel cause of hereditary bradyarrhythmias in this family. KCNJ3 encodes the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir3.1, which combines with Kir3.4 (encoded by KCNJ5) to form the acetylcholine-activated potassium channel ( IKACh channel) with specific expression in the atrium. An additional study using a genome cohort of 2185 patients with sporadic atrial fibrillation revealed another 5 rare mutations in KCNJ3 and KCNJ5, suggesting the relevance of both genes to these arrhythmias. Cellular electrophysiological studies revealed that the KCNJ3 p.N83H mutation caused a gain of IKACh channel function by increasing the basal current, even in the absence of m2 muscarinic receptor stimulation. We generated transgenic zebrafish expressing mutant human KCNJ3 in the atrium specifically. It is interesting to note that the selective IKACh channel blocker NIP-151 repressed the increased current and improved bradyarrhythmia phenotypes in the mutant zebrafish. CONCLUSIONS The IKACh channel is associated with the pathophysiology of bradyarrhythmia and atrial fibrillation, and the mutant IKACh channel ( KCNJ3 p.N83H) can be effectively inhibited by NIP-151, a selective IKACh channel blocker. Thus, the IKACh channel might be considered to be a suitable pharmacological target for patients who have bradyarrhythmia with a gain-of-function mutation in the IKACh channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriaki Yamada
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Asano
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Masashi Fujita
- Department of Onco-cardiology, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Japan (M.F.)
| | - Satoru Yamazaki
- Departments of Cell Biology (S.Y.), National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Japan
| | - Atsushi Inanobe
- Pharmacology (A.I., Y.K.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Norio Matsuura
- Departments of Health and Environmental Sciences (N.M.), Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hatasu Kobayashi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life and Health Sciences Chubu University, Kasugai, Japan (H. Kobayashi)
| | - Seiko Ohno
- Bioscience and Genetics (S.O.), National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Japan.,Center for Epidemiologic Research in Asia (S.O., K.M., H.U., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ebana
- Life Science and Bioethics Research Center (Y.E.), Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Osamu Tsukamoto
- Medical Biochemistry (O.T., H. Kato, Y.N., S.T.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Saki Ishino
- Center of Medical Innovation and Translational Research (S.I.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Ayako Takuwa
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Kioka
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Toru Yamashita
- Pharmaceuticals Division, Nissan Chemical Corporation, Tokyo, Japan (T.Y., N.H.)
| | - Norio Hashimoto
- Pharmaceuticals Division, Nissan Chemical Corporation, Tokyo, Japan (T.Y., N.H.)
| | - Dimitar P Zankov
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (D.P.Z., A.S., H.O.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Akio Shimizu
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (D.P.Z., A.S., H.O.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Masanori Asakura
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan (M.A.)
| | - Hiroshi Asanuma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Meiji University of Integrative Medicine, Nantan, Japan (H.A.)
| | - Hisakazu Kato
- Medical Biochemistry (O.T., H. Kato, Y.N., S.T.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Yuya Nishida
- Medical Biochemistry (O.T., H. Kato, Y.N., S.T.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Yohei Miyashita
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Haruki Shinomiya
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Nobu Naiki
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.N., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Kenshi Hayashi
- Department of Cardiovascular and Internal Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa, Japan (K.H., M.Y.)
| | - Takeru Makiyama
- Cardiovascular Medicine (T. Makiyama), Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hisakazu Ogita
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (D.P.Z., A.S., H.O.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Miura
- Center for Epidemiologic Research in Asia (S.O., K.M., H.U., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.,Public Health (K.M., H.U.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hirotsugu Ueshima
- Center for Epidemiologic Research in Asia (S.O., K.M., H.U., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.,Public Health (K.M., H.U.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Issei Komuro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Japan (I.K.)
| | - Masakazu Yamagishi
- Department of Cardiovascular and Internal Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa, Japan (K.H., M.Y.).,Department of Human Sciences, Osaka University of Human Sciences, Settsu, Japan (M.Y.)
| | - Minoru Horie
- Center for Epidemiologic Research in Asia (S.O., K.M., H.U., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.,Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.N., M.H.), Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Koichi Kawakami
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan (K.K.).,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, Japan (K.K.)
| | - Tetsushi Furukawa
- Department of Bioinformational Pharmacology (T.F.), Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan
| | - Akio Koizumi
- Public Interest Foundation Kyoto Hokenkai, Japan (A.K.)
| | - Yoshihisa Kurachi
- Pharmacology (A.I., Y.K.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Yasushi Sakata
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine (N.Y., Y.A., A.T., H. Kioka, Y.M., H.S., Y.S.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Minamino
- Department of Cardiorenal and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Japan (T. Minamino)
| | - Masafumi Kitakaze
- Clinical Medicine and Development (M.K.), National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Japan
| | - Seiji Takashima
- Medical Biochemistry (O.T., H. Kato, Y.N., S.T.), Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
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10
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Garg P, Garg V, Shrestha R, Sanguinetti MC, Kamp TJ, Wu JC. Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes as Models for Cardiac Channelopathies: A Primer for Non-Electrophysiologists. Circ Res 2019; 123:224-243. [PMID: 29976690 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.118.311209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Life threatening ventricular arrhythmias leading to sudden cardiac death are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. In the absence of structural heart disease, these arrhythmias, especially in the younger population, are often an outcome of genetic defects in specialized membrane proteins called ion channels. In the heart, exceptionally well-orchestrated activity of a diversity of ion channels mediates the cardiac action potential. Alterations in either the function or expression of these channels can disrupt the configuration of the action potential, leading to abnormal electrical activity of the heart that can sometimes initiate an arrhythmia. Understanding the pathophysiology of inherited arrhythmias can be challenging because of the complexity of the disorder and lack of appropriate cellular and in vivo models. Recent advances in human induced pluripotent stem cell technology have provided remarkable progress in comprehending the underlying mechanisms of ion channel disorders or channelopathies by modeling these complex arrhythmia syndromes in vitro in a dish. To fully realize the potential of induced pluripotent stem cells in elucidating the mechanistic basis and complex pathophysiology of channelopathies, it is crucial to have a basic knowledge of cardiac myocyte electrophysiology. In this review, we will discuss the role of the various ion channels in cardiac electrophysiology and the molecular and cellular mechanisms of arrhythmias, highlighting the promise of human induced pluripotent stem cell-cardiomyocytes as a model for investigating inherited arrhythmia syndromes and testing antiarrhythmic strategies. Overall, this review aims to provide a basic understanding of the electrical activity of the heart and related channelopathies, especially to clinicians or research scientists in the cardiovascular field with limited electrophysiology background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Garg
- From the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.).,Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.).,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.)
| | - Vivek Garg
- Stanford University School of Medicine, CA; Department of Physiology, University of California San Francisco (V.G.)
| | - Rajani Shrestha
- From the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.).,Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.).,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.)
| | | | - Timothy J Kamp
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison (T.J.K.)
| | - Joseph C Wu
- From the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.) .,Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.).,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (P.G., R.S., J.C.W.)
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11
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Aguilar-Sanchez Y, Rodriguez de Yurre A, Argenziano M, Escobar AL, Ramos-Franco J. Transmural Autonomic Regulation of Cardiac Contractility at the Intact Heart Level. Front Physiol 2019; 10:773. [PMID: 31333477 PMCID: PMC6616252 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between cardiac excitability and contractility depends on when Ca2+ influx occurs during the ventricular action potential (AP). In mammals, it is accepted that Ca2+ influx through the L-type Ca2+ channels occurs during AP phase 2. However, in murine models, experimental evidence shows Ca2+ influx takes place during phase 1. Interestingly, Ca2+ influx that activates contraction is highly regulated by the autonomic nervous system. Indeed, autonomic regulation exerts multiple effects on Ca2+ handling and cardiac electrophysiology. In this paper, we explore autonomic regulation in endocardial and epicardial layers of intact beating mice hearts to evaluate their role on cardiac excitability and contractility. We hypothesize that in mouse cardiac ventricles the influx of Ca2+ that triggers excitation–contraction coupling (ECC) does not occur during phase 2. Using pulsed local field fluorescence microscopy and loose patch photolysis, we show sympathetic stimulation by isoproterenol increased the amplitude of Ca2+ transients in both layers. This increase in contractility was driven by an increase in amplitude and duration of the L-type Ca2+ current during phase 1. Interestingly, the β-adrenergic increase of Ca2+ influx slowed the repolarization of phase 1, suggesting a competition between Ca2+ and K+ currents during this phase. In addition, cAMP activated L-type Ca2+ currents before SR Ca2+ release activated the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger currents, indicating Cav1.2 channels are the initial target of PKA phosphorylation. In contrast, parasympathetic stimulation by carbachol did not have a substantial effect on amplitude and kinetics of endocardial and epicardial Ca2+ transients. However, carbachol transiently decreased the duration of the AP late phase 2 repolarization. The carbachol-induced shortening of phase 2 did not have a considerable effect on ventricular pressure and systolic Ca2+ dynamics. Interestingly, blockade of muscarinic receptors by atropine prolonged the duration of phase 2 indicating that, in isolated hearts, there is an intrinsic release of acetylcholine. In addition, the acceleration of repolarization induced by carbachol was blocked by the acetylcholine-mediated K+ current inhibition. Our results reveal the transmural ramifications of autonomic regulation in intact mice hearts and support our hypothesis that Ca2+ influx that triggers ECC occurs in AP phase 1 and not in phase 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuriana Aguilar-Sanchez
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ainhoa Rodriguez de Yurre
- Laboratorio de Cardio Inmunologia, Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Argenziano
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ariel L Escobar
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, United States
| | - Josefina Ramos-Franco
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
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12
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Li WC, Zhu XY, Ritson E. Mechanosensory Stimulation Evokes Acute Concussion-Like Behavior by Activating GIRKs Coupled to Muscarinic Receptors in a Simple Vertebrate. eNeuro 2017; 4:ENEURO.0073-17.2017. [PMID: 28462392 PMCID: PMC5409982 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0073-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most vertebrates show concussion responses when their heads are hit suddenly by heavy objects. Previous studies have focused on the direct physical injuries to the neural tissue caused by the concussive blow. We study a similar behavior in a simple vertebrate, the Xenopus laevis tadpole. We find that concussion-like behavior can be reliably induced by the mechanosensory stimulation of the head skin without direct physical impacts on the brain. Head skin stimulation activates a cholinergic pathway which then opens G protein-coupled inward-rectifying potassium channels (GIRKs) via postsynaptic M2 muscarinic receptors to inhibit brainstem neurons critical for the initiation and maintenance of swimming for up to minutes and can explain many features commonly observed immediately after concussion. We propose that some acute symptoms of concussion in vertebrates can be explained by the opening of GIRKs following mechanosensory stimulation to the head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chang Li
- University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9JP, Scotland
| | - Xiao-Yue Zhu
- University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9JP, Scotland
| | - Emma Ritson
- University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9JP, Scotland
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13
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Different approaches in the treatment of obstructive pulmonary diseases. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 764:306-317. [PMID: 26172082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Advances in drug formulation, inhalation device design and disease management are generating new opportunities for patients suffering from obstructive pulmonary diseases. This article provides a comprehensive review of the different promising pulmonary drug delivery technologies in the treatment of obstructive pulmonary diseases, particularly with regard to the treatment of asthma and chronic pulmonary diseases (COPD), which are increasing day by day due to increasing environmental pollution and its harmful and toxic contaminants. In the recent years, a better knowledge has been gained regarding the mechanism of action of glucocorticoids and how they suppress the chronic inflammation. New etiology has been brought into light regarding the inactivity of glucocorticoids in some patients having asthma and COPDs even though the inflammatory genes are triggered by similar molecules in both the diseases. This new knowledge has given a new platform to improve glucocorticoids and their resistance also how other combination therapy can be used for these diseases. It has also led to the quest for improving and developing other alternatives such as anti-leukotriene agents, muscarinic inhibitors, combination therapy, as well as biologic immune-modulators in the treatment of the different pulmonary diseases. Several new combinations of glucocorticoids are available in the global market for the use in pulmonary diseases especially asthma although their availability fluctuates between continents. There has been several studies done regarding the variation of effectiveness of the different inhaled glucocorticoids and hence it is important to take into consideration the different delivery systems and the methods which are used to treat the patients.
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14
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Posokhova E, Ng D, Opel A, Masuho I, Tinker A, Biesecker LG, Wickman K, Martemyanov KA. Essential role of the m2R-RGS6-IKACh pathway in controlling intrinsic heart rate variability. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76973. [PMID: 24204714 PMCID: PMC3812209 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal heart function requires generation of a regular rhythm by sinoatrial pacemaker cells and the alteration of this spontaneous heart rate by the autonomic input to match physiological demand. However, the molecular mechanisms that ensure consistent periodicity of cardiac contractions and fine tuning of this process by autonomic system are not completely understood. Here we examined the contribution of the m2R-IKACh intracellular signaling pathway, which mediates the negative chronotropic effect of parasympathetic stimulation, to the regulation of the cardiac pacemaking rhythm. Using isolated heart preparations and single-cell recordings we show that the m2R-IKACh signaling pathway controls the excitability and firing pattern of the sinoatrial cardiomyocytes and determines variability of cardiac rhythm in a manner independent from the autonomic input. Ablation of the major regulator of this pathway, Rgs6, in mice results in irregular cardiac rhythmicity and increases susceptibility to atrial fibrillation. We further identify several human subjects with variants in the RGS6 gene and show that the loss of function in RGS6 correlates with increased heart rate variability. These findings identify the essential role of the m2R-IKACh signaling pathway in the regulation of cardiac sinus rhythm and implicate RGS6 in arrhythmia pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Posokhova
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - David Ng
- Genetic Diseases Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Aaisha Opel
- Department of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ikuo Masuho
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Andrew Tinker
- The Heart Centre, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leslie G. Biesecker
- Genetic Diseases Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kevin Wickman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Kirill A. Martemyanov
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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15
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Mesirca P, Marger L, Toyoda F, Rizzetto R, Audoubert M, Dubel S, Torrente AG, Difrancesco ML, Muller JC, Leoni AL, Couette B, Nargeot J, Clapham DE, Wickman K, Mangoni ME. The G-protein-gated K+ channel, IKACh, is required for regulation of pacemaker activity and recovery of resting heart rate after sympathetic stimulation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 142:113-26. [PMID: 23858001 PMCID: PMC3727310 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201310996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Parasympathetic regulation of sinoatrial node (SAN) pacemaker activity modulates multiple ion channels to temper heart rate. The functional role of the G-protein–activated K+ current (IKACh) in the control of SAN pacemaking and heart rate is not completely understood. We have investigated the functional consequences of loss of IKACh in cholinergic regulation of pacemaker activity of SAN cells and in heart rate control under physiological situations mimicking the fight or flight response. We used knockout mice with loss of function of the Girk4 (Kir3.4) gene (Girk4−/− mice), which codes for an integral subunit of the cardiac IKACh channel. SAN pacemaker cells from Girk4−/− mice completely lacked IKACh. Loss of IKACh strongly reduced cholinergic regulation of pacemaker activity of SAN cells and isolated intact hearts. Telemetric recordings of electrocardiograms of freely moving mice showed that heart rate measured over a 24-h recording period was moderately increased (10%) in Girk4−/− animals. Although the relative extent of heart rate regulation of Girk4−/− mice was similar to that of wild-type animals, recovery of resting heart rate after stress, physical exercise, or pharmacological β-adrenergic stimulation of SAN pacemaking was significantly delayed in Girk4−/− animals. We conclude that IKACh plays a critical role in the kinetics of heart rate recovery to resting levels after sympathetic stimulation or after direct β-adrenergic stimulation of pacemaker activity. Our study thus uncovers a novel role for IKACh in SAN physiology and heart rate regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Mesirca
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Département de Physiologie, Laboratoire d'Excellence Canaux Ioniques d'Intérêt Thérapeutique, 34094 Montpellier, France
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16
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Muscarinic receptors and their antagonists in COPD: anti-inflammatory and antiremodeling effects. Mediators Inflamm 2012; 2012:409580. [PMID: 23226927 PMCID: PMC3512336 DOI: 10.1155/2012/409580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscarinic receptors are expressed by most cell types and mediate cellular signaling of their natural ligand acetylcholine. Thereby, they control numerous central and peripheral physiological organ responses to neuronal activity. In the human lung, muscarinic receptors are predominantly expressed by smooth muscle cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts. Antimuscarinic agents are used for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and to a lesser extent for asthma. They are primarily used as bronchodilators, but it is now accepted that they are also associated with anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antiremodeling effects. Remodeling of the small airways is a major pathology in COPD and impairs lung function through changes of the extracellular matrix. Glycosaminoglycans, particularly hyaluronic acid, and matrix metalloproteases are among extracellular matrix molecules that have been associated with tissue inflammation and remodeling in lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Since muscarinic receptors have been shown to influence the homeostasis of glycosaminoglycans and matrix metalloproteases, these molecules may be proved valuable endpoint targets in clinical studies for the pharmacological exploitation of the anti-inflammatory and antiremodeling effects of muscarinic inhibitors in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
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17
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Posokhova E, Wydeven N, Allen KL, Wickman K, Martemyanov KA. RGS6/Gβ5 complex accelerates IKACh gating kinetics in atrial myocytes and modulates parasympathetic regulation of heart rate. Circ Res 2010; 107:1350-4. [PMID: 20884879 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.110.224212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The parasympathetic reduction in heart rate involves the sequential activation of m2 muscarinic cholinergic receptors (m(2)Rs), pertussis toxin-sensitive (Gi/o) heterotrimeric G proteins, and the atrial potassium channel I(KACh). Molecular mechanisms regulating this critical signal transduction pathway are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE To determine whether the G protein signaling regulator Rgs6/Gβ5 modulates m(2)R-I(KACh) signaling and cardiac physiology. METHODS AND RESULTS Cardiac expression of Rgs6, and its interaction with Gβ5, was demonstrated by immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation. Rgs6(-/-) mice were generated by gene targeting, and the cardiac effects of Rgs6 ablation were analyzed by whole-cell recordings in isolated cardiomyocytes and ECG telemetry. Loss of Rgs6 yielded profound delays in m(2)R-I(KACh) deactivation kinetics in both neonatal atrial myocytes and adult sinoatrial nodal cells. Rgs6(-/-) mice exhibited mild resting bradycardia and altered heart rate responses to pharmacological manipulations that were consistent with enhanced m(2)R-I(KACh) signaling. CONCLUSIONS The cardiac Rgs6/Gβ5 complex modulates the timing of parasympathetic influence on atrial myocytes and heart rate in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Posokhova
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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18
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19
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Park HJ, Zhang Y, Du C, Welzig CM, Madias C, Aronovitz MJ, Georgescu SP, Naggar I, Wang B, Kim YB, Blaustein RO, Karas RH, Liao R, Mathews CE, Galper JB. Role of SREBP-1 in the development of parasympathetic dysfunction in the hearts of type 1 diabetic Akita mice. Circ Res 2009; 105:287-94. [PMID: 19423844 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.109.193995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN), a major complication of diabetes mellitus, is characterized, in part, by impaired cardiac parasympathetic responsiveness. Parasympathetic stimulation of the heart involves activation of an acetylcholine-gated K+ current, I(KAch), via a (GIRK1)2/(GIRK4)2 K+ channel. Sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) is a lipid-sensitive transcription factor. OBJECTIVE We describe a unique SREBP-1-dependent mechanism for insulin regulation of cardiac parasympathetic response in a mouse model for DAN. METHODS AND RESULTS Using implantable EKG transmitters, we demonstrated that compared with wild-type, Ins2(Akita) type I diabetic mice demonstrated a decrease in the negative chronotropic response to carbamylcholine characterized by a 2.4-fold decrease in the duration of bradycardia, a 52+/-8% decrease in atrial expression of GIRK1 (P<0.01), and a 31.3+/-2.1% decrease in SREBP-1 (P<0.05). Whole-cell patch-clamp studies of atrial myocytes from Akita mice exhibited a markedly decreased carbamylcholine stimulation of I(KAch) with a peak value of -181+/-31 pA/pF compared with -451+/-62 pA/pF (P<0.01) in cells from wild-type mice. Western blot analysis of extracts of Akita mice demonstrated that insulin treatment increased the expression of GIRK1, SREBP-1, and I(KAch) activity in atrial myocytes from these mice to levels in wild-type mice. Insulin treatment of cultured atrial myocytes stimulated GIRK1 expression 2.68+/-0.12-fold (P<0.01), which was reversed by overexpression of dominant negative SREBP-1. Finally, adenoviral expression of SREBP-1 in Akita atrial myocytes reversed the impaired I(KAch) to levels in cells from wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS These results support a unique molecular mechanism for insulin regulation of GIRK1 expression and parasympathetic response via SREBP-1, which might play a role in the pathogenesis of DAN in response to insulin deficiency in the diabetic heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Jin Park
- Tufts Medical Center, Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, 750 Washington St., Box 8486, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
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20
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Abstract
The heart automaticity is a fundamental physiological function in higher organisms. The spontaneous activity is initiated by specialized populations of cardiac cells generating periodical electrical oscillations. The exact cascade of steps initiating the pacemaker cycle in automatic cells has not yet been entirely elucidated. Nevertheless, ion channels and intracellular Ca(2+) signaling are necessary for the proper setting of the pacemaker mechanism. Here, we review the current knowledge on the cellular mechanisms underlying the generation and regulation of cardiac automaticity. We discuss evidence on the functional role of different families of ion channels in cardiac pacemaking and review recent results obtained on genetically engineered mouse strains displaying dysfunction in heart automaticity. Beside ion channels, intracellular Ca(2+) release has been indicated as an important mechanism for promoting automaticity at rest as well as for acceleration of the heart rate under sympathetic nerve input. The potential links between the activity of ion channels and Ca(2+) release will be discussed with the aim to propose an integrated framework of the mechanism of automaticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo E Mangoni
- Institute of Functional Genomics, Department of Physiology, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR5203, INSERM U661, University of Montpellier I and II, Montpellier, France.
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21
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Abstract
Despite advances in treatment, atrial fibrillation (AF) remains the most common arrhythmia in humans. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy continues to be a cornerstone of AF treatment, even in light of emerging non-pharmacologic therapies. Conventional antiarrhythmic drugs target cardiac ion channels and are often associated with modest AF suppression and the risk of ventricular proarrhythmia. Ongoing drug development has focused on targeting atrial-specific ion channels as well as novel non-ionic targets. Targeting non-ionic mechanisms may also provide new drugs directed towards the underlying mechanisms responsible for AF and possibly greater antiarrhythmic potency. Agents that act against these new targets may offer improved safety and efficacy in AF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Bhakta
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Krannert Institute of Cardiology, 1800 N. Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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22
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Chen X, Johnston D. Constitutively active G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ channels in dendrites of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. J Neurosci 2006; 25:3787-92. [PMID: 15829630 PMCID: PMC6724929 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5312-04.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A diversity of ion channels contributes to the active properties of neuronal dendrites. From the apical dendrites of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, we recorded inwardly rectifying K+ channels with a single-channel conductance of 33 pS. The inwardly rectifying K+ channels were constitutively active at the resting membrane potential. The amount of constitutive channel activity was significantly larger in the apical dendrites than in the soma. Activities of these inwardly rectifying K+ channels were inhibited by Ba2+ (200 microM) and tertiapin (10 nM), both of which are believed to block G-protein-coupled inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. Intracellularly applied GTPgammaS (20 microM) during dual dendritic recordings significantly increased constitutive channel activity. Baclofen (20 microM), an agonist for the G-protein-coupled GABA(B) receptor, also significantly increased the level of channel activity. Therefore, these channels are GIRK channels, which are constitutively active at rest in the apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons and can be further activated via G-protein-coupled neurotransmitter receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xixi Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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Gómez AM, Kerfant BG, Vassort G, Pappano AJ. Autonomic regulation of calcium and potassium channels is oppositely modulated by microtubules in cardiac myocytes. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2004; 286:H2065-71. [PMID: 14739139 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00933.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We recently showed that colchicine treatment of rat ventricular myocytes increases the L-type Ca2+ current (I(Ca)) and intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+](i)) transients and interferes with adrenergic signaling. These actions were ascribed to adenylyl cyclase (AC) stimulation after G(s) activation by alpha,beta-tubulin. Colchicine depolymerizes microtubules into alpha,beta-tubulin dimers. This study analyzed muscarinic signals in myocytes with intact or depolymerized microtubules. Myocytes were loaded with the Ca2+ indicator fluo 3 and were field stimulated at 1 Hz or voltage clamped. In untreated cells, carbachol (CCh; 1 microM) induced ACh-activated K(+) current [I(K(ACh))], which happens via betagamma-subunits from the activation of G(i). Carbachol also reduced [Ca2+](i) transients and contractions. Once G(i) is activated by muscarinic agonist, the alpha(i)-subunit is released from the betagamma-subunits, but it is silent, and its inhibition of the AC/cAMP cascade, manifested by I(Ca) reduction, is not seen unless AC has been previously activated. In colchicine-treated cells, CCh caused greater reductions of [Ca2+](i) transients and contractions than in untreated cells. The alpha(i)-subunit became effective in signaling through the AC/cAMP cascade and reduced I(Ca) without changing its voltage-dependence. Isoproterenol (Iso) regained its efficacy and reversed I(Ca) inhibition by CCh. Stimulation of I(Ca) by forskolin persisted in colchicine-treated cells when Iso was ineffective. The effect of CCh on I(K(ACh)) was occluded in colchicine-treated cells. Colchicine treatment, per se, may increase I(K(ACh)) by betagamma-subunits released from G(s) to mask this effect of CCh. Microtubules suppress I(Ca) regulation by alpha(i); their disruption releases restraints that unmask muscarinic inhibition of I(Ca). Summarily, colchicine treatment reverses regulation of ventricular excitation-contraction coupling by autonomic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Gómez
- Physiopathologie Cardiovasculaire, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U-637, EA-3759, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Arnaud de Villeneuve, F-34295 Montpellier, France.
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Ford BD, Liu Y, Mann MA, Krauss R, Phillips K, Gan L, Fischbach GD. Neuregulin-1 suppresses muscarinic receptor expression and acetylcholine-activated muscarinic K+ channels in cardiac myocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2003; 308:23-8. [PMID: 12890474 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-291x(03)01319-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The neuregulin-1 family of growth factors regulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptor synthesis in skeletal muscle, but its role in cardiac myogenesis remains unclear. Here, we investigate the involvement of neuregulins in the development of cardiac cholinergic responsiveness. Treatment of chick cardiac myocytes with neuregulin-1 inhibited mRNA expression of the M4 muscarinic receptor, but not the M2 receptor. In addition, mRNA levels of GIRK1 were reduced in myocytes by treatment with neuregulin-1. Activation of cholinergic receptors in cultured chick atrial myocytes by carbachol produced an outward potassium current (I(K(ACh))), which was attenuated by 24-48-h pre-treatment with neuregulin-1. These data suggest that neuregulins can regulate cardiac parasympathetic tone and may be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron D Ford
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, SW, MRC 223, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA.
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Hommers LG, Lohse MJ, Bünemann M. Regulation of the inward rectifying properties of G-protein-activated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels by Gbeta gamma subunits. J Biol Chem 2003; 278:1037-43. [PMID: 12403784 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m205325200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Gbetagamma subunits are known to bind to and activate G-protein-activated inwardly rectifying K(+) channels (GIRK) by regulating their open probability and bursting behavior. Studying G-protein regulation of either native GIRK (I(KACh)) channels in feline atrial myocytes or heterologously expressed GIRK1/4 channels in Chinese hamster ovary cells and HEK 293 cells uncovered a novel Gbetagamma subunit mediated regulation of the inwardly rectifying properties of these channels. I(KACh) activated by submaximal concentrations of acetylcholine exhibited a approximately 2.5-fold stronger inward rectification than I(KACh) activated by saturating concentrations of acetylcholine. Similarly, the inward rectification of currents through GIRK1/4 channels expressed in HEK cells was substantially weakened upon maximal stimulation with co-expressed Gbetagamma subunits. Analysis of the outward current block underlying inward rectification demonstrated that the fraction of instantaneously blocked channels was reduced when Gbetagamma was over-expressed. The Gbetagamma induced weakening of inward rectification was associated with reduced potencies for Ba(2+) and Cs(+) to block channels from the extracellular side. Based on these results we propose that saturation of the channel with Gbetagamma leads to a conformational change within the pore of the channel that reduced the potency of extracellular cations to block the pore and increased the fraction of channels inert to a pore block in outward direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leif G Hommers
- University of Würzburg, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Versbacherstrasse 9, Germany
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Kovoor P, Wickman K, Maguire CT, Pu W, Gehrmann J, Berul CI, Clapham DE. Evaluation of the role of I(KACh) in atrial fibrillation using a mouse knockout model. J Am Coll Cardiol 2001; 37:2136-43. [PMID: 11419900 DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(01)01304-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to study the role of I(KACh) in atrial fibrillation (AF) and the potential electrophysiologic effects of a specific I(KACh) antagonist. BACKGROUND I(KACh) mediates much of the cardiac responses to vagal stimulation. Vagal stimulation predisposes to AF, but the specific role of I(KACh) in the generation of AF and the electrophysiologic effects of specific I(KACh) blockade have not been studied. METHODS Adult wild-type (WT) and I(KACh)-deficient knockout (KO) mice were studied in the absence and presence of the muscarinic receptor agonist carbachol. The electrophysiologic features of KO mice were compared with those of WT mice to assess the potential effects of a specific I(KACh) antagonist. RESULTS Atrial fibrillation lasting for a mean of 5.7+/-11 min was initiated in 10 of 14 WT mice in the presence of carbachol, but not in the absence of carbachol. Atrial arrhythmia could not be induced in KO mice. Ventricular tachyarrhythmia could not be induced in either type of mouse. Sinus node recovery times after carbachol and sinus cycle lengths were shorter and ventricular effective refractory periods were greater in KO mice than in WT mice. There was no significant difference between KO and WT mice in AV node function. CONCLUSIONS Activation of I(KACh) predisposed to AF and lack of I(KACh) prevented AF. It is likely that I(KACh) plays a crucial role in the generation of AF in mice. Specific I(KACh) blockers might be useful for the treatment of AF without significant adverse effects on the atrioventricular node or the ventricles.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kovoor
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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