Membrane potential governs calcium influx into microvascular endothelium: integral role for muscarinic receptor activation

Impact of aging on vascular ion channels: perspectives and knowledge gaps across major organ systems

Individuals aged ≥65 yr will comprise ∼20% of the global population by 2030. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the world with age-related endothelial "dysfunction" as a key risk factor. As an organ in and of itself, vascular endothelium courses throughout the mammalian body to coordinate blood flow to all other organs and tissues (e.g., brain, heart, lung, skeletal muscle, gut, kidney, skin) in accord with metabolic demand. In turn, emerging evidence demonstrates that vascular aging and its comorbidities (e.g., neurodegeneration, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, heart failure, and cancer) are "channelopathies" in large part. With an emphasis on distinct functional traits and common arrangements across major organs systems, the present literature review encompasses regulation of vascular ion channels that underlie blood flow control throughout the body. The regulation of myoendothelial coupling and local versus conducted signaling are discussed with new perspectives for aging and the development of chronic diseases. Although equipped with an awareness of knowledge gaps in the vascular aging field, a section has been included to encompass general feasibility, role of biological sex, and additional conceptual and experimental considerations (e.g., cell regression and proliferation, gene profile analyses). The ultimate goal is for the reader to see and understand major points of deterioration in vascular function while gaining the ability to think of potential mechanistic and therapeutic strategies to sustain organ perfusion and whole body health with aging.

On the Ca2＋ elevation in vascular endothelial cells due to inositol trisphosphate-sensitive store receptors activation: A data-driven modeling approach

Agonist-induced Ca2+ signaling is essential for the regulation of many vital functions in endothelial cells (ECs). A broad range of stimuli elevate the cytosolic Ca2＋ concentration by promoting a pathway mediated by inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP3) which causes Ca2＋ release from intracellular stores. Despite its importance, there are very few studies focusing on the quantification of such dynamics in the vascular endothelium. Here, by using data from isolated ECs, we established a minimalistic modeling framework able to quantitatively capture the main features (averaged over a cell population) of the cytosolic Ca2＋ response to different IP3 stimulation levels. A suitable description of Ca2＋-regulatory function of inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) and corresponding parameter space are identified by comparing the different model variants against experimental mean population data. The same approach is used to numerically assess the relevance of cytosolic Ca2＋ buffering, as well as Ca2＋ store IP3-sensitivity in the overall cell dynamics. The variability in the dynamics' features observed across the population can be explained (at least in part) through variation of certain model parameters (such as buffering capacity or Ca2＋ store sensitivity to IP3). The results, in terms of experimental fitting and validation, support the proposed minimalistic model as a reference framework for the quantification of the EC Ca2＋ dynamics induced by IP3Rs activation.

Intraluminal pressure elevates intracellular calcium and contracts CNS pericytes: Role of voltage-dependent calcium channels

Arteriolar smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and capillary pericytes dynamically regulate blood flow in the central nervous system in the face of fluctuating perfusion pressures. Pressure-induced depolarization and Ca2+ elevation provide a mechanism for regulation of SMC contraction, but whether pericytes participate in pressure-induced changes in blood flow remains unknown. Here, utilizing a pressurized whole-retina preparation, we found that increases in intraluminal pressure in the physiological range induce contraction of both dynamically contractile pericytes in the arteriole-proximate transition zone and distal pericytes of the capillary bed. We found that the contractile response to pressure elevation was slower in distal pericytes than in transition zone pericytes and arteriolar SMCs. Pressure-evoked elevation of cytosolic Ca2+ and contractile responses in SMCs were dependent on voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC) activity. In contrast, Ca2+ elevation and contractile responses were partially dependent on VDCC activity in transition zone pericytes and independent of VDCC activity in distal pericytes. In both transition zone and distal pericytes, membrane potential at low inlet pressure (20 mmHg) was approximately -40 mV and was depolarized to approximately -30 mV by an increase in pressure to 80 mmHg. The magnitude of whole-cell VDCC currents in freshly isolated pericytes was approximately half that measured in isolated SMCs. Collectively, these results indicate a loss of VDCC involvement in pressure-induced constriction along the arteriole-capillary continuum. They further suggest that alternative mechanisms and kinetics of Ca2+ elevation, contractility, and blood flow regulation exist in central nervous system capillary networks, distinguishing them from neighboring arterioles.

Gsmtx4 Alleviated Osteoarthritis through Piezo1/Calcineurin/NFAT1 Signaling Axis under Excessive Mechanical Strain

Excessive mechanical strain is the prominent risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA), causing cartilage destruction and degeneration. However, the underlying molecular mechanism contributing to mechanical signaling transduction remains unclear in OA. Piezo type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (Piezo1) is a calcium-permeable mechanosensitive ion channel and provides mechanosensitivity to cells, but its role in OA development has not been determined. Herein, we found up-regulated expression of Piezo1 in OA cartilage, and that its activation contributes to chondrocyte apoptosis. The knockdown of Piezo1 could protect chondrocytes from apoptosis and maintain the catabolic and anabolic balance under mechanical strain. In vivo, Gsmtx4, a Piezo1 inhibitor, markedly ameliorated the progression of OA, inhibited the chondrocyte apoptosis, and accelerated the production of the cartilage matrix. Mechanistically, we observed the elevated activity of calcineurin (CaN) and the nuclear transfection of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFAT1) under mechanical strain in chondrocytes. Inhibitors of CaN or NFAT1 rescued the pathologic changes induced by mechanical strain in chondrocytes. Overall, our findings revealed that Piezo1 was the essential molecule response to mechanical signals and regulated apoptosis and cartilage matrix metabolism via the CaN/NFAT1 signaling axis in chondrocytes, and that Gsmtx4 could be an attractive therapeutic drug for OA treatment.

KIR channel regulation of electrical conduction along cerebrovascular endothelium: Enhanced modulation during Alzheimer's disease

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial cell (EC) coupling occurs through gap junctions and underlies cerebral blood flow regulation governed by inward-rectifying K⁺ (K_IR ) channels. This study addressed effects of K_IR channel activity on EC coupling before and during Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

Intact EC tubes (width: ~90-100 μm; length: ~0.5 mm) were freshly isolated from posterior cerebral arteries of young Pre-AD (1-3 months) and aged AD (13-18 months) male and female 3xTg-AD mice. Dual intracellular microelectrodes applied simultaneous current injections (±0.5-3 nA) and membrane potential (V_m ) recordings in ECs at distance ~400 μm. Elevated extracellular potassium ([K⁺ ]_E ; 8-15 mmol/L; reference, 5 mmol/L) activated K_IR channels.

RESULTS

Conducted V_m (∆V_m ) responses ranged from ~-30 to 30 mV in response to -3 to +3 nA (linear regression, R²  ≥ .99) while lacking rectification for charge polarity or axial direction of spread. Conduction slope decreased ~10%-20% during 15 mmol/L [K⁺ ]_E in Pre-AD males and AD females. 15 mmol/L [K⁺ ]_E decreased conduction by ~10%-20% at lower ∆V_m thresholds in AD animals (~±20 mV) versus Pre-AD (~±25 mV). AD increased conducted hyperpolarization by ~10%-15% during 8-12 mmol/L [K⁺ ]_E .

CONCLUSIONS

Brain endothelial K_IR channel activity modulates bidirectional spread of vasoreactive signals with enhanced regulation of EC coupling during AD pathology.

Potassium Channels in the Uterine Vasculature: Role in Healthy and Complicated Pregnancies

A progressive increase in maternal uterine and placental blood flow must occur during pregnancy to sustain the development of the fetus. Changes in maternal vasculature enable an increased uterine blood flow, placental nutrient and oxygen exchange, and subsequent fetal development. K⁺ channels are important modulators of vascular function, promoting vasodilation, inducing cell proliferation, and regulating cell signaling. Different types of K⁺ channels, such as Ca²⁺-activated, ATP-sensitive, and voltage-gated, have been implicated in the adaptation of maternal vasculature during pregnancy. Conversely, K⁺ channel dysfunction has been associated with vascular-related complications of pregnancy, including intrauterine growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. In this article, we provide an updated and comprehensive literature review that highlights the relevance of K⁺ channels as regulators of uterine vascular reactivity and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Cell-To-Cell Communication in the Resistance Vasculature

The arterial vasculature can be divided into large conduit arteries, intermediate contractile arteries, resistance arteries, arterioles, and capillaries. Resistance arteries and arterioles primarily function to control systemic blood pressure. The resistance arteries are composed of a layer of endothelial cells oriented parallel to the direction of blood flow, which are separated by a matrix layer termed the internal elastic lamina from several layers of smooth muscle cells oriented perpendicular to the direction of blood flow. Cells within the vessel walls communicate in a homocellular and heterocellular fashion to govern luminal diameter, arterial resistance, and blood pressure. At rest, potassium currents govern the basal state of endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Multiple stimuli can elicit rises in intracellular calcium levels in either endothelial cells or smooth muscle cells, sourced from intracellular stores such as the endoplasmic reticulum or the extracellular space. In general, activation of endothelial cells results in the production of a vasodilatory signal, usually in the form of nitric oxide or endothelial-derived hyperpolarization. Conversely, activation of smooth muscle cells results in a vasoconstriction response through smooth muscle cell contraction. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12: 1-35, 2022.

ATP and acetylcholine interact to modulate vascular tone and α1-adrenergic vasoconstriction in humans

The vascular endothelium senses and integrates numerous inputs to regulate vascular tone. Recent evidence reveals complex signal processing within the endothelium, yet little is known about how endothelium-dependent stimuli interact to regulate blood flow. We tested the hypothesis that combined stimulation of the endothelium with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and acetylcholine (ACh) elicits greater vasodilation and attenuates α₁-adrenergic vasoconstriction compared with combination of ATP or ACh with the endothelium-independent dilator sodium nitroprusside (SNP). We assessed forearm vascular conductance (FVC) in young adults (6 women, 7 men) during local intra-arterial infusion of ATP, ACh, or SNP alone and in the following combinations: ATP + ACh, SNP + ACh, and ATP + SNP, wherein the second dilator was coinfused after attaining steady state with the first dilator. By design, each dilator evoked a similar response when infused separately (ΔFVC, ATP: 48 ± 4; ACh: 57 ± 6; SNP: 53 ± 6 mL·min^-1·100 mmHg^-1; P ≥ 0.62). Combined infusion of the endothelium-dependent dilators evoked greater vasodilation than combination of either dilator with SNP (ΔFVC from first dilator, ATP + ACh: 45 ± 9 vs. SNP + ACh: 18 ± 7 and ATP + SNP: 26 ± 4 mL·min^-1·100 mmHg^-1, P < 0.05). Phenylephrine was subsequently infused to evaluate α₁-adrenergic vasoconstriction. Phenylephrine elicited less vasoconstriction during infusion of ATP or ACh versus SNP (ΔFVC, -25 ± 3 and -29 ± 4 vs. -48 ± 3%; P < 0.05). The vasoconstrictor response to phenylephrine was further diminished during combined infusion of ATP + ACh (-13 ± 3%; P < 0.05 vs. ATP or ACh alone) and was less than that observed when either dilator was combined with SNP (SNP + ACh: -26 ± 3%; ATP + SNP: -31 ± 4%; both P < 0.05 vs. ATP + ACh). We conclude that endothelium-dependent agonists interact to elicit vasodilation and limit α₁-adrenergic vasoconstriction in humans.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The results of this study highlight the vascular endothelium as a critical site for integration of vasomotor signals in humans. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that combined stimulation of the endothelium with ATP and ACh results in enhanced vasodilation compared with combination of either ATP or ACh with an endothelium-independent dilator. Furthermore, we show that ATP and ACh interact to modulate α₁-adrenergic vasoconstriction in human skeletal muscle in vivo.

Development of Alzheimer's Disease Progressively Alters Sex-Dependent KCa and Sex-Independent KIR Channel Function in Cerebrovascular Endothelium

BACKGROUND

Development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology is associated with impaired blood flow delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the brain. Cerebrovascular endothelium regulates vasoreactivity of blood vessel networks for optimal cerebral blood flow.

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that cerebrovascular endothelial Gq-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR; purinergic and muscarinic) and K+ channel [Ca2+-activated (KCa2.3/SK3 and KCa3.1/IK1) and inward-rectifying (KIR2.x)] function declines during progressive AD pathology.

METHODS

We applied simultaneous measurements of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and membrane potential (Vm) in freshly isolated endothelium from posterior cerebral arteries of 3×Tg-AD mice [young, no pathology (1- 2 mo), cognitive impairment (CI; 4- 5 mo), extracellular Aβ plaques (Aβ; 6- 8 mo), and Aβ plaques + neurofibrillary tangles (AβT; 12- 15 mo)].

RESULTS

The coupling of ΔVm-to-Δ[Ca2+]i during AβT pathology was lowest for both sexes but, overall, ATP-induced purinergic receptor function was stable throughout AD pathology. SKCa/IKCa channel function itself was enhanced by ∼20% during AD (Aβ+ AβT) versus pre-AD (Young + CI) in males while steady in females. Accordingly, hyperpolarization-induced [Ca2+]i increases following SKCa/IKCa channel activation and Δ[Ca2+]i-to-ΔVm coupling was enhanced by ≥two-fold during AD pathology in males but not females. Further, KIR channel function decreased by ∼50% during AD conditions versus young regardless of sex. Finally, other than a ∼40% increase in females versus males during Aβ pathology, [Ca2+]i responses to the mitochondrial uncoupler FCCP were similar among AD versus pre-AD conditions.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, AD pathology represents a condition of altered KCa and KIR channel function in cerebrovascular endothelium in a sex-dependent and sex-independent manner respectively.

Ca2+ entry at the plasma membrane and uptake by acidic stores is regulated by the activity of the V-H+ -ATPase in Toxoplasma gondii

Ca²⁺ is a universal intracellular signal that regulates many cellular functions. In Toxoplasma gondii, the controlled influx of extracellular and intracellular Ca²⁺ into the cytosol initiates a signaling cascade that promotes pathogenic processes like tissue destruction and dissemination. In this work, we studied the role of proton transport in cytosolic Ca²⁺ homeostasis and the initiation of Ca²⁺ signaling. We used a T. gondii mutant of the V-H⁺ -ATPase, a pump previously shown to transport protons to the extracellular medium, and to control intracellular pH and membrane potential and we show that proton gradients are important for maintaining resting cytosolic Ca²⁺ at physiological levels and for Ca²⁺ influx. Proton transport was also important for Ca²⁺ storage by acidic stores and, unexpectedly, the endoplasmic reticulum. Proton transport impacted the amount of polyphosphate (polyP), a phosphate polymer that binds Ca²⁺ and concentrates in acidocalcisomes. This was supported by the co-localization of the vacuolar transporter chaperone 4 (VTC4), the catalytic subunit of the VTC complex that synthesizes polyP, with the V-ATPase in acidocalcisomes. Our work shows that proton transport regulates plasma membrane Ca²⁺ transport and control acidocalcisome polyP and Ca²⁺ content, impacting Ca²⁺ signaling and downstream stimulation of motility and egress in T. gondii.

Aging Alters Cerebrovascular Endothelial GPCR and K+ Channel Function: Divergent Role of Biological Sex

Age-related dementia entails impaired blood flow to and throughout the brain due, in part, to reduced endothelial nitric oxide signaling. However, it is unknown whether sex affects cerebrovascular Gq-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and K+ channels underlying endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) during progressive aging. Thus, we simultaneously evaluated intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and membrane potential (Vm) of intact endothelial tubes freshly isolated from posterior cerebral arteries of young (4-6 mo), middle-aged (12-16 mo), and old (24-28 mo) male and female C57BL/6 mice. Purinergic receptor function (vs. muscarinic) was dominant and enhanced for [Ca2+]i increases in old females versus old males. However, Ca2+-sensitive K+ channel function as defined by NS309-evoked Vm hyperpolarization was mildly impaired in females versus males during old age. This sex-based contrast in declined function of GPCRs and K+ channels to produce EDH may support a greater ability for physiological endothelial GPCR function to maintain optimal cerebral blood flow in females versus males during old age. As reflective of the pattern of cerebral blood flow decline in human subjects, inward-rectifying K+ (KIR) channel function decreased with progressive age regardless of sex. Combined age-related analyses masked male versus female aging and, contrary to expectation, hydrogen peroxide played a minimal role. Altogether, we conclude a sex-based divergence in cerebrovascular endothelial GPCR and K+ channel function while highlighting a previously unidentified form of age-related endothelial dysfunction as reduced KIR channel function.

KCa channel activation normalizes endothelial function in Type 2 Diabetic resistance arteries by improving intracellular Ca2+ mobilization

BACKGROUND

Endothelial dysfunction is an early pathogenic event in the progression of cardiovascular disease in patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Endothelial KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 K⁺ channels are important regulators of arterial diameter, and we thus hypothesized that SKA-31, a small molecule activator of KCa2.3 and KCa3.1, would positively influence agonist-evoked dilation in myogenically active resistance arteries in T2D.

METHODOLOGY

Arterial pressure myography was utilized to investigate endothelium-dependent vasodilation in isolated cremaster skeletal muscle resistance arteries from 22 to 24 week old T2D Goto-Kakizaki rats, age-matched Wistar controls, and small human intra-thoracic resistance arteries from T2D subjects. Agonist stimulated changes in cytosolic free Ca²⁺ in acutely isolated, single endothelial cells from Wistar and T2D Goto-Kakizaki cremaster and cerebral arteries were examined using Fura-2 fluorescence imaging.

MAIN FINDINGS

Endothelium-dependent vasodilation in response to acetylcholine (ACh) or bradykinin (BK) was significantly impaired in isolated cremaster arteries from T2D Goto-Kakizaki rats compared with Wistar controls, and similar results were observed in human intra-thoracic arteries. In contrast, inhibition of myogenic tone by sodium nitroprusside, a direct smooth muscle relaxant, was unaltered in both rat and human T2D arteries. Treatment with a threshold concentration of SKA-31 (0.3 μM) significantly enhanced vasodilatory responses to ACh and BK in arteries from T2D Goto-Kakizaki rats and human subjects, whereas only modest effects were observed in non-diabetic arteries of both species. Mechanistically, SKA-31 enhancement of evoked dilation was independent of vascular NO synthase and COX activities. Remarkably, SKA-31 treatment improved agonist-stimulated Ca²⁺ elevation in acutely isolated endothelial cells from T2D Goto-Kakizaki cremaster and cerebral arteries, but not from Wistar control vessels. In contrast, SKA-31 treatment did not affect intracellular Ca²⁺ release by the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our data demonstrate that KCa channel modulation can acutely restore endothelium-dependent vasodilatory responses in T2D resistance arteries from rats and humans, which appears to involve improved endothelial Ca²⁺ mobilization.

Connexins: Key Players in the Control of Vascular Plasticity and Function

Of the 21 members of the connexin family, 4 (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) are expressed in the endothelium and/or smooth muscle of intact blood vessels to a variable and dynamically regulated degree. Full-length connexins oligomerize and form channel structures connecting the cytosol of adjacent cells (gap junctions) or the cytosol with the extracellular space (hemichannels). The different connexins vary mainly with regard to length and sequence of their cytosolic COOH-terminal tails. These COOH-terminal parts, which in the case of Cx43 are also translated as independent short isoforms, are involved in various cellular signaling cascades and regulate cell functions. This review focuses on channel-dependent and -independent effects of connexins in vascular cells. Channels play an essential role in coordinating and synchronizing endothelial and smooth muscle activity and in their interplay, in the control of vasomotor actions of blood vessels including endothelial cell reactivity to agonist stimulation, nitric oxide-dependent dilation, and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor-type responses. Further channel-dependent and -independent roles of connexins in blood vessel function range from basic processes of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis to vascular permeability and interactions with leukocytes with the vessel wall. Together, these connexin functions constitute an often underestimated basis for the enormous plasticity of vascular morphology and function enabling the required dynamic adaptation of the vascular system to varying tissue demands.

Internalization and Transportation of Endothelial Cell Surface KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia

Altered redox state modulates the expression levels of endothelial K_Ca2.3 and K_Ca3.1 (K_Cas) in normal pregnancy (NP) and preeclampsia (PE), thereby regulating vascular contractility. The mechanisms underlying K_Cas endocytosis and transportation remain unknown. We investigated the regulation of K_Cas expression in plasma membrane (PM) during NP and PE. Cultured human uterine artery endothelial cells were incubated in serum from normal nonpregnant women and women with NP or PE, or in oxidized LDL-, or lysophosphatidylcholine- (LPC-) containing a medium for 24 hours. NP serum elevated PM levels of K_Cas and reduced caveolin-1 and clathrin levels. PE serum, oxidized LDL, or LPC reduced PM levels of K_Cas and elevated caveolin-1, clathrin, Rab5c, and early endosome antigen-1 (EEA1) levels. Reduced K_Cas levels by PE serum or LPC were reversed by inhibition of caveolin-1, clathrin, or EEA1. Catalase and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) knockdown elevated PM-localized K_Cas levels and reduced caveolin-1 and clathrin levels. Elevated K_Ca2.3 levels upon catalase and GPX1 knockdown were reversed by PEG-catalase treatment. An H₂O₂ donor reduced clathrin and Rab5c. In contrast, elevated clathrin, caveolin-1, or colocalization of caveolin-1 with K_Ca3.1 by PE serum or LPC was reversed by NADPH oxidase inhibitors or antioxidants. A superoxide donor xanthine+xanthine oxidase elevated caveolin-1 or Rab5c levels. We concluded that K_Cas are endocytosed in a caveola- or a clathrin-dependent manner and transported in a Rab5c- and EEA1-dependent manner during pregnancy. The endocytosis and transportation processes may slow down via H₂O₂-mediated pathways in NP and may be accelerated via superoxide-mediated pathways in PE.

Functional Interaction among KCa and TRP Channels for Cardiovascular Physiology: Modern Perspectives on Aging and Chronic Disease

Effective delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to vital organs and tissues throughout the body requires adequate blood flow supplied through resistance vessels. The intimate relationship between intracellular calcium ([Ca²⁺]_i) and regulation of membrane potential (V_m) is indispensable for maintaining blood flow regulation. In particular, Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (K_Ca) channels were ascertained as transducers of elevated [Ca²⁺]_i signals into hyperpolarization of V_m as a pathway for decreasing vascular resistance, thereby enhancing blood flow. Recent evidence also supports the reverse role for K_Ca channels, in which they facilitate Ca²⁺ influx into the cell interior through open non-selective cation (e.g., transient receptor potential; TRP) channels in accord with robust electrical (hyperpolarization) and concentration (~20,000-fold) transmembrane gradients for Ca²⁺. Such an arrangement supports a feed-forward activation of V_m hyperpolarization while potentially boosting production of nitric oxide. Furthermore, in vascular types expressing TRP channels but deficient in functional K_Ca channels (e.g., collecting lymphatic endothelium), there are profound alterations such as downstream depolarizing ionic fluxes and the absence of dynamic hyperpolarizing events. Altogether, this review is a refined set of evidence-based perspectives focused on the role of the endothelial K_Ca and TRP channels throughout multiple experimental animal models and vascular types. We discuss the diverse interactions among K_Ca and TRP channels to integrate Ca²⁺, oxidative, and electrical signaling in the context of cardiovascular physiology and pathology. Building from a foundation of cellular biophysical data throughout a wide and diverse compilation of significant discoveries, a translational narrative is provided for readers toward the treatment and prevention of chronic, age-related cardiovascular disease.

Simultaneous Measurements of Intracellular Calcium and Membrane Potential in Freshly Isolated and Intact Mouse Cerebral Endothelium

Cerebral arteries and their respective microcirculation deliver oxygen and nutrients to the brain via blood flow regulation. Endothelial cells line the lumen of blood vessels and command changes in vascular diameter as needed to meet the metabolic demand of neurons. Primary endothelial-dependent signaling pathways of hyperpolarization of membrane potential (Vm) and nitric oxide typically operate in parallel to mediate vasodilation and thereby increase blood flow. Although integral to coordinating vasodilation over several millimeters of vascular length, components of endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) have been historically difficult to measure. These components of EDH entail intracellular Ca²⁺ [Ca²⁺]i increases and subsequent activation of small- and intermediate conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (SKCa/IKCa) channels. Here, we present a simplified illustration of the isolation of fresh endothelium from mouse cerebral arteries; simultaneous measurements of endothelial [Ca²⁺]i and Vm using Fura-2 photometry and intracellular sharp electrodes, respectively; and a continuous superfusion of salt solutions and pharmacological agents under physiological conditions (pH 7.4, 37 °C). Posterior cerebral arteries from the Circle of Willis are removed free of the posterior communicating and the basilar arteries. Enzymatic digestion of cleaned posterior cerebral arterial segments and subsequent trituration facilitates removal of adventitia, perivascular nerves, and smooth muscle cells. Resulting posterior cerebral arterial endothelial "tubes" are then secured under a microscope and examined using a camera, photomultiplier tube, and one to two electrometers while under continuous superfusion. Collectively, this method can simultaneously measure changes in endothelial [Ca²⁺]i and Vm in discrete cellular locations, in addition to the spreading of EDH through gap junctions up to millimeter distances along the intact endothelium. This method is expected to yield a high-throughput analysis of the cerebral endothelial functions underlying mechanisms of blood flow regulation in the normal and diseased brain.

Amplification of endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in contracting human skeletal muscle: role of KIR channels

KEY POINTS

In humans, the vasodilatory response to skeletal muscle contraction is mediated in part by activation of inwardly rectifying potassium (K_IR ) channels. Evidence from animal models suggest that K_IR channels serve as electrical amplifiers of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH). We found that skeletal muscle contraction amplifies vasodilatation to the endothelium-dependent agonist ACh, whereas there was no change in the vasodilatory response to sodium nitroprusside, an endothelium-independent nitric oxide donor. Blockade of K_IR channels reduced the exercise-induced amplification of ACh-mediated vasodilatation. Conversely, pharmacological activation of K_IR channels in quiescent muscle via intra-arterial infusion of KCl independently amplified the vasodilatory response to ACh. This study is the first in humans to demonstrate that specific endothelium-dependent vasodilatory signalling is amplified in the vasculature of contracting skeletal muscle and that K_IR channels may serve as amplifiers of EDH-like vasodilatory signalling in humans.

ABSTRACT

The local vasodilatory response to muscle contraction is due in part to the activation of inwardly rectifying potassium (K_IR ) channels. Evidence from animal models suggest that K_IR channels function as 'amplifiers' of endothelium-dependent vasodilators. We tested the hypothesis that contracting muscle selectively amplifies endothelium-dependent vasodilatation via activation of K_IR channels. We measured forearm blood flow (Doppler ultrasound) and calculated changes in vascular conductance (FVC) to local intra-arterial infusion of ACh (endothelium-dependent dilator) during resting conditions, handgrip exercise (5% maximum voluntary contraction) or sodium nitroprusside (SNP; endothelium-independent dilator) which served as a high-flow control condition (n = 7, young healthy men and women). Trials were performed before and after blockade of K_IR channels via infusion of barium chloride. Exercise augmented peak ACh-mediated vasodilatation (ΔFVC saline: 117 ± 14; exercise: 236 ± 21 ml min^-1 (100 mmHg)^-1 ; P < 0.05), whereas SNP did not impact ACh-mediated vasodilatation. Blockade of K_IR channels attenuated the exercise-induced augmentation of ACh. In eight additional subjects, SNP was administered as the experimental dilator. In contrast to ACh, exercise did not alter SNP-mediated vasodilatation (ΔFVC saline: 158 ± 35; exercise: 121 ± 22 ml min^-1 (100 mmHg)^-1 ; n.s.). Finally, in a subset of six subjects, direct pharmacological activation of K_IR channels in quiescent muscle via infusion of KCl amplified peak ACh-mediated vasodilatation (ΔFVC saline: 97 ± 15, KCl: 142 ± 16 ml min^-1  (100 mmHg)^-1 ; respectively; P < 0.05). These findings indicate that skeletal muscle contractions selectively amplify endothelium-dependent vasodilatory signalling via activation of K_IR channels, and this may be an important mechanism contributing to the normal vasodilatory response to exercise in humans.

Microvascular mechanisms limiting skeletal muscle blood flow with advancing age

Effective oxygen delivery to active muscle fibers requires that vasodilation initiated in distal arterioles, which control flow distribution and capillary perfusion, ascends the resistance network into proximal arterioles and feed arteries, which govern total blood flow into the muscle. With exercise onset, ascending vasodilation reflects initiation and conduction of hyperpolarization along endothelium from arterioles into feed arteries. Electrical coupling of endothelial cells to smooth muscle cells evokes the rapid component of ascending vasodilation, which is sustained by ensuing release of nitric oxide during elevated luminal shear stress. Concomitant sympathetic neural activation inhibits ascending vasodilation by stimulating α-adrenoreceptors on smooth muscle cells to constrict the resistance vasculature. We hypothesized that compromised muscle blood flow in advanced age reflects impaired ascending vasodilation through actions on both cell layers of the resistance network. In the gluteus maximus muscle of old (24 mo) vs. young (4 mo) male mice (corresponding to mid-60s vs. early 20s in humans) inhibition of α-adrenoreceptors in old mice restored ascending vasodilation, whereas even minimal activation of α-adrenoreceptors in young mice attenuated ascending vasodilation in the manner seen with aging. Conduction of hyperpolarization along the endothelium is impaired in old vs. young mice because of "leaky" membranes resulting from the activation of potassium channels by hydrogen peroxide released from endothelial cells. Exposing the endothelium of young mice to hydrogen peroxide recapitulates this effect of aging. Thus enhanced α-adrenoreceptor activation of smooth muscle in concert with electrically leaky endothelium restricts muscle blood flow by impairing ascending vasodilation in advanced age.

ATP triggers a robust intracellular [Ca2+ ]-mediated signalling pathway in human synovial fibroblasts

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? What are the main [Ca²⁺ ]_i signalling pathways activated by ATP in human synovial fibroblasts? What is the main finding and its importance? In human synovial fibroblasts ATP acts through a linked G-protein (G_q ) and phospholipase C signalling mechanism to produce IP₃ , which then markedly enhances release of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic reticulum. These results provide new information for the detection of early pathophysiology of arthritis.

ABSTRACT

In human articular joints, synovial fibroblasts (HSFs) have essential physiological functions that include synthesis and secretion of components of the extracellular matrix and essential articular joint lubricants, as well as release of paracrine substances such as ATP. Although the molecular and cellular processes that lead to a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) phenotype are not fully understood, HSF cells exhibit significant changes during this disease progression. The effects of ATP on HSFs were studied by monitoring changes in intracellular Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺ ]_i ), and measuring electrophysiological properties. ATP application to HSF cell populations that had been enzymatically released from 2-D cell culture revealed that ATP (10-100 μm), or its analogues UTP or ADP, consistently produced a large transient increase in [Ca²⁺ ]_i . These changes (i) were initiated by activation of the P₂ Y purinergic receptor family, (ii) required G_q -mediated signal transduction, (iii) did not involve a transmembrane Ca²⁺ influx, but instead (iv) arose almost entirely from activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃ ) receptors that triggered Ca²⁺ release from the ER. Corresponding single cell electrophysiological studies revealed that these ATP effects (i) were insensitive to [Ca²⁺ ]_o removal, (ii) involved an IP₃ -mediated intracellular Ca²⁺ release process, and (iii) strongly turned on Ca²⁺ -activated K⁺ current(s) that significantly hyperpolarized these cells. Application of histamine produced very similar effects in these HSF cells. Since ATP is a known paracrine agonist and histamine is released early in the inflammatory response, these findings may contribute to identification of early steps/defects in the initiation and progression of RA.

Electrical dynamics of isolated cerebral and skeletal muscle endothelial tubes: Differential roles of G-protein-coupled receptors and K+ channels

Electrical dynamics of freshly isolated cerebral endothelium have not been determined independently of perivascular nerves and smooth muscle. We tested the hypothesis that endothelium of cerebral and skeletal muscle arteries differentially utilizes purinergic and muscarinic signaling pathways to activate endothelium‐derived hyperpolarization. Changes in membrane potential (V_m) were recorded in intact endothelial tubes freshly isolated from posterior cerebral and superior epigastric arteries of male and female C57BL/6 mice (age: 3‐8 months). V_m was measured in response to activation of purinergic (P2Y) and muscarinic (M₃) receptors in addition to small‐ and intermediate‐conductance Ca²⁺‐activated K⁺ (SK_Ca/IK_Ca) and inward rectifying K⁺ (K_IR) channels using ATP (100 μmol·L⁻¹), acetylcholine (ACh; 10 μmol·L⁻¹), NS309 (0.01‐10 μmol·L⁻¹), and 15 mmol·L⁻¹ KCl, respectively. Intercellular coupling was demonstrated via transfer of propidium iodide dye and electrical current (±0.5‐3 nA) through gap junctions. With similarities observed across gender, peak hyperpolarization to ATP and ACh in skeletal muscle endothelial tubes was ~twofold and ~sevenfold higher, respectively, vs cerebral endothelial tubes, whereas responses to NS309 were similar (from resting V_m ~−30 mV to maximum ~−80 mV). Hyperpolarization (~8 mV) occurred during 15 mmol·L⁻¹ KCl treatment in cerebral but not skeletal muscle endothelial tubes. Despite weaker hyperpolarization during endothelial GPCR stimulation in cerebral vs skeletal muscle endothelium, the capability for robust SK_Ca/IK_Ca activity is preserved across brain and skeletal muscle. As vascular reactivity decreases with aging and cardiovascular disease, endothelial K⁺ channel activity may be calibrated to restore blood flow to respective organs regardless of gender.

Boosting the signal: Endothelial inward rectifier K+ channels

Endothelial cells express a diverse array of ion channels including members of the strong inward rectifier family composed of K_IR 2 subunits. These two-membrane spanning domain channels are modulated by their lipid environment, and exist in macromolecular signaling complexes with receptors, protein kinases and other ion channels. Inward rectifier K⁺ channel (K_IR ) currents display a region of negative slope conductance at membrane potentials positive to the K⁺ equilibrium potential that allows outward current through the channels to be activated by membrane hyperpolarization, permitting K_IR to amplify hyperpolarization induced by other K⁺ channels and ion transporters. Increases in extracellular K⁺ concentration activate K_IR allowing them to sense extracellular K⁺ concentration and transduce this change into membrane hyperpolarization. These properties position K_IR to participate in the mechanism of action of hyperpolarizing vasodilators and contribute to cell-cell conduction of hyperpolarization along the wall of microvessels. The expression of K_IR in capillaries in electrically active tissues may allow K_IR to sense extracellular K⁺ , contributing to functional hyperemia. Understanding the regulation of expression and function of microvascular endothelial K_IR will improve our understanding of the control of blood flow in the microcirculation in health and disease and may provide new targets for the development of therapeutics in the future.

Calcium and electrical signaling in arterial endothelial tubes: New insights into cellular physiology and cardiovascular function

The integral role of the endothelium during the coordination of blood flow throughout vascular resistance networks has been recognized for several decades now. Early examination of the distinct anatomy and physiology of the endothelium as a signaling conduit along the vascular wall has prompted development and application of an intact endothelial "tube" study model isolated from rodent skeletal muscle resistance arteries. Vasodilatory signals such as increased endothelial cell (EC) Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺ ]_i ) and hyperpolarization take place in single ECs while shared between electrically coupled ECs through gap junctions up to distances of millimeters (≥2 mm). The small- and intermediate-conductance Ca²⁺ activated K⁺ (SK_Ca /IK_Ca or K_Ca 2.3/K_Ca 3.1) channels function at the interface of Ca²⁺ signaling and hyperpolarization; a bidirectional relationship whereby increases in [Ca²⁺ ]_i activate SK_Ca /IK_Ca channels to produce hyperpolarization and vice versa. Further, the spatial domain of hyperpolarization among electrically coupled ECs can be finely tuned via incremental modulation of SK_Ca /IK_Ca channels to balance the strength of local and conducted electrical signals underlying vasomotor activity. Multifunctional properties of the voltage-insensitive SK_Ca /IK_Ca channels of resistance artery endothelium may be employed for therapy during the aging process and development of vascular disease.

Calcium and electrical dynamics in lymphatic endothelium

KEY POINTS

Endothelial cell function in resistance arteries integrates Ca2+ signalling with hyperpolarization to promote relaxation of smooth muscle cells and increase tissue blood flow. Whether complementary signalling occurs in lymphatic endothelium is unknown. Intracellular calcium and membrane potential were evaluated in endothelial cell tubes freshly isolated from mouse collecting lymphatic vessels of the popliteal fossa. Resting membrane potential measured using intracellular microelectrodes averaged ∼-70 mV. Stimulation of lymphatic endothelium by acetylcholine or a TRPV4 channel agonist increased intracellular Ca2+ with robust depolarization. Findings from Trpv4-/- mice and with computational modelling suggest that the initial mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ leads to influx of Ca2+ and Na+ through TRPV4 channels to evoke depolarization. Lymphatic endothelial cells lack the Ca2+ -activated K+ channels present in arterial endothelium to generate endothelium-derived hyperpolarization. Absence of this signalling pathway with effective depolarization may promote rapid conduction of contraction along lymphatic muscle during lymph propulsion.

ABSTRACT

Subsequent to a rise in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+ ]i ), hyperpolarization of the endothelium coordinates vascular smooth muscle relaxation along resistance arteries during blood flow control. In the lymphatic vasculature, collecting vessels generate rapid contractions coordinated along lymphangions to propel lymph, but the underlying signalling pathways are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) exhibit Ca2+ and electrical signalling properties that facilitate lymph propulsion. To study electrical and intracellular Ca2+ signalling dynamics in lymphatic endothelium, we excised collecting lymphatic vessels from the popliteal fossa of mice and removed their muscle cells to isolate intact LEC tubes (LECTs). Intracellular recording revealed a resting membrane potential of ∼-70 mV. Acetylcholine (ACh) increased [Ca2+ ]i with a time course similar to that observed in endothelium of resistance arteries (i.e. rapid initial peak with a sustained 'plateau'). In striking contrast to the endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) characteristic of arteries, LECs depolarized (>15 mV) to either ACh or TRPV4 channel activation. This depolarization was facilitated by the absence of Ca2+ -activated K+ (KCa ) channels as confirmed with PCR, persisted in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ , was abolished by LaCl3 and was attenuated ∼70% in LECTs from Trpv4-/- mice. Computational modelling of ion fluxes in LECs indicated that omitting K+ channels supports our experimental results. These findings reveal novel signalling events in LECs, which are devoid of the KCa activity abundant in arterial endothelium. Absence of EDH with effective depolarization of LECs may promote the rapid conduction of contraction waves along lymphatic muscle during lymph propulsion.

Impact of Aging on Calcium Signaling and Membrane Potential in Endothelium of Resistance Arteries: A Role for Mitochondria

Impaired blood flow to peripheral tissues during advanced age is associated with endothelial dysfunction and diminished bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO). However, it is unknown whether aging impacts coupling between intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) signaling and small- and intermediate K+ channel (SKCa/IKCa) activity during endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH), a signaling pathway integral to dilation of the resistance vasculature. To address the potential impact of aging on EDH, Fura-2 photometry and intracellular recording were applied to evaluate [Ca2+]i and membrane potential of intact endothelial tubes (width, 60 µm; length, 1-3 mm) freshly isolated from superior epigastric arteries of young (4-6 mo) and old (24-26 mo) male C57BL/6 mice. In response to acetylcholine, intracellular release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was enhanced with aging. Further, treatment with the mitochondrial uncoupler FCCP evoked a significant increase of [Ca2+]i with membrane hyperpolarization in an SKCa/IKCa-dependent manner in the endothelium of old but not young mice. We conclude that the ability of resistance artery endothelium to release Ca2+ from intracellular stores (ie, ER and mitochondria) and hyperpolarize Vm via SKCa/IKCa activation is augmented as compensation for reduced NO bioavailability during advanced age.

Acetylcholine induces intracellular Ca2+ oscillations and nitric oxide release in mouse brain endothelial cells

Basal forebrain neurons increase cortical blood flow by releasing acetylcholine (Ach), which stimulates endothelial cells (ECs) to produce the vasodilating gasotransmitter, nitric oxide (NO). Surprisingly, the mechanism whereby Ach induces NO synthesis in brain microvascular ECs is unknown. An increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration recruits a multitude of endothelial Ca²⁺-dependent pathways, such as Ca²⁺/calmodulin endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). The present investigation sought to investigate the role of intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling in Ach-induced NO production in bEND5 cells, an established model of mouse brain microvascular ECs, by conventional imaging of cells loaded with the Ca²⁺-sensitive dye, Fura-2/AM, and the NO-sensitive fluorophore, DAF-DM diacetate. Ach induced dose-dependent Ca²⁺ oscillations in bEND5 cells, 300 μM being the most effective dose to generate a prolonged Ca²⁺ burst. Pharmacological manipulation revealed that Ach-evoked Ca²⁺ oscillations required metabotropic muscarinic receptor (mAchR) activation and were patterned by a complex interplay between repetitive ER Ca²⁺ release via inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP₃Rs) and store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE). A comprehensive real time-polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated the expression of the transcripts encoding for M3-mAChRs, InsP₃R1 and InsP₃R3, Stim1-2 and Orai2. Next, we found that Ach-induced NO production was hindered by L-NAME, a selective NOS inhibitor, and BAPTA, a membrane permeable intracellular Ca²⁺ buffer. Moreover, Ach-elicited NO synthesis was blocked by the pharmacological abrogation of the accompanying Ca²⁺ spikes. Overall, these data shed novel light on the molecular mechanisms whereby neuronally-released Ach controls neurovascular coupling in blood microvessels.

Advancing Age Decreases Pressure-Sensitive Modulation of Calcium Signaling in the Endothelium of Intact and Pressurized Arteries

Aging is the summation of many subtle changes which result in altered cardiovascular function. Impaired endothelial function underlies several of these changes and precipitates plaque development in larger arteries. The endothelium transduces chemical and mechanical signals into changes in the cytoplasmic calcium concentration to control vascular function. However, studying endothelial calcium signaling in larger arteries in a physiological configuration is challenging because of the requirement to focus through the artery wall. Here, pressure- and agonist-sensitive endothelial calcium signaling was studied in pressurized carotid arteries from young (3-month-old) and aged (18-month-old) rats by imaging from within the artery using gradient index fluorescence microendoscopy. Endothelial sensitivity to acetylcholine increased with age. The number of cells exhibiting oscillatory calcium signals and the frequency of oscillations were unchanged with age. However, the latency of calcium responses was significantly increased with age. Acetylcholine-evoked endothelial calcium signals were suppressed by increased intraluminal pressure. However, pressure-dependent inhibition of calcium signaling was substantially reduced with age. While each of these changes will increase endothelial calcium signaling with increasing age, decreases in endothelial pressure sensitivity may manifest as a loss of functionality and responsiveness in aging.

Acetylcholine released by endothelial cells facilitates flow-mediated dilatation

KEY POINTS

The endothelium plays a pivotal role in the vascular response to chemical and mechanical stimuli. The endothelium is exquisitely sensitive to ACh, although the physiological significance of ACh-induced activation of the endothelium is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of flow-mediated endothelial calcium signalling. Our data establish that flow-mediated endothelial calcium responses arise from the autocrine action of non-neuronal ACh released by the endothelium.

ABSTRACT

Circulating blood generates frictional forces (shear stress) on the walls of blood vessels. These frictional forces critically regulate vascular function. The endothelium senses these frictional forces and, in response, releases various vasodilators that relax smooth muscle cells in a process termed flow-mediated dilatation. Although some elements of the signalling mechanisms have been identified, precisely how flow is sensed and transduced to cause the release of relaxing factors is poorly understood. By imaging signalling in large areas of the endothelium of intact arteries, we show that the endothelium responds to flow by releasing ACh. Once liberated, ACh acts to trigger calcium release from the internal store in endothelial cells, nitric oxide production and artery relaxation. Flow-activated release of ACh from the endothelium is non-vesicular and occurs via organic cation transporters. ACh is generated following mitochondrial production of acetylCoA. Thus, we show ACh is an autocrine signalling molecule released from endothelial cells, and identify a new role for the classical neurotransmitter in endothelial mechanotransduction.

Endothelium-dependent vasodilatory signalling modulates α1 -adrenergic vasoconstriction in contracting skeletal muscle of humans

KEY POINTS

'Functional sympatholysis' describes the ability of contracting skeletal muscle to attenuate sympathetic vasoconstriction, and is critical to ensure proper blood flow and oxygen delivery to metabolically active skeletal muscle. The signalling mechanism responsible for sympatholysis in healthy humans is unknown. Evidence from animal models has identified endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH) as a potential mechanism capable of attenuating sympathetic vasoconstriction. In this study, increasing endothelium-dependent signalling during exercise significantly enhanced the ability of contracting skeletal muscle to attenuate sympathetic vasoconstriction in humans. This is the first study in humans to identify endothelium-dependent regulation of sympathetic vasoconstriction in contracting skeletal muscle, and specifically supports a role for EDH-like vasodilatory signalling. Impaired functional sympatholysis is a common feature of cardiovascular ageing, hypertension and heart failure, and thus identifying fundamental mechanisms responsible for sympatholysis is clinically relevant.

ABSTRACT

Stimulation of α-adrenoceptors elicits vasoconstriction in resting skeletal muscle that is blunted during exercise in an intensity-dependent manner. In humans, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We tested the hypothesis that stimulating endothelium-dependent vasodilatory signalling will enhance the ability of contracting skeletal muscle to blunt α₁ -adrenergic vasoconstriction. Changes in forearm vascular conductance (FVC; Doppler ultrasound, brachial intra-arterial pressure via catheter) to local intra-arterial infusion of phenylephrine (PE; α₁ -adrenoceptor agonist) were calculated during (1) infusion of the endothelium-dependent vasodilators acetylcholine (ACh) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the endothelium-independent vasodilator (sodium nitroprusside, SNP), or potassium chloride (KCl) at rest; (2) mild or moderate intensity handgrip exercise; and (3) combined mild exercise + ACh, ATP, SNP, or KCl infusions in healthy adults. Robust vasoconstriction to PE was observed during vasodilator infusion alone and mild exercise, and this was blunted during moderate intensity exercise (ΔFVC: -34 ± 4 and -34 ± 3 vs. -13 ± 2%, respectively, P < 0.05). Infusion of ACh or ATP during mild exercise significantly attenuated PE vasoconstriction similar to levels observed during moderate exercise (ACh: -3 ± 4; ATP: -18 ± 4%). In contrast, infusion of SNP or KCl during mild exercise did not attenuate PE-mediated vasoconstriction (-32 ± 5 and -46 ± 3%). To further study the role of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH), ACh trials were repeated with combined nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase inhibition. Here, PE-mediated vasoconstriction was blunted at rest (blockade: -20 ± 5 vs.

CONTROL

-31 ± 3% vs.; P < 0.05) and remained blunted during exercise (blockade: -15 ± 5 vs.

CONTROL

-14 ± 5%). We conclude that stimulation of EDH-like vasodilatation can blunt α₁ -adrenergic vasoconstriction in contracting skeletal muscle of humans.

KCa 3.1 upregulation preserves endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation during aging and oxidative stress

Endothelial oxidative stress develops with aging and reactive oxygen species impair endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) by decreasing nitric oxide (NO) availability. Endothelial KCa 3.1, which contributes to EDR, is upregulated by H2 O2 . We investigated whether KCa 3.1 upregulation compensates for diminished EDR to NO during aging-related oxidative stress. Previous studies identified that the levels of ceramide synthase 5 (CerS5), sphingosine, and sphingosine 1-phosphate were increased in aged wild-type and CerS2 mice. In primary mouse aortic endothelial cells (MAECs) from aged wild-type and CerS2 null mice, superoxide dismutase (SOD) was upregulated, and catalase and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) were downregulated, when compared to MAECs from young and age-matched wild-type mice. Increased H2 O2 levels induced Fyn and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) phosphorylation and KCa 3.1 upregulation. Catalase/GPX1 double knockout (catalase(-/-) /GPX1(-/-) ) upregulated KCa 3.1 in MAECs. NO production was decreased in aged wild-type, CerS2 null, and catalase(-/-) /GPX1(-/-) MAECs. However, KCa 3.1 activation-induced, N(G) -nitro-l-arginine-, and indomethacin-resistant EDR was increased without a change in acetylcholine-induced EDR in aortic rings from aged wild-type, CerS2 null, and catalase(-/-) /GPX1(-/-) mice. CerS5 transfection or exogenous application of sphingosine or sphingosine 1-phosphate induced similar changes in levels of the antioxidant enzymes and upregulated KCa 3.1. Our findings suggest that, during aging-related oxidative stress, SOD upregulation and downregulation of catalase and GPX1, which occur upon altering the sphingolipid composition or acyl chain length, generate H2 O2 and thereby upregulate KCa 3.1 expression and function via a H2 O2 /Fyn-mediated pathway. Altogether, enhanced KCa 3.1 activity may compensate for decreased NO signaling during vascular aging.

Cholinergic Machinery as Relevant Target in Acute Lymphoblastic T Leukemia

Various types of non-neuronal cells, including tumors, are able to produce acetylcholine (ACh), which acts as an autocrine/paracrine growth factor. T lymphocytes represent a key component of the non-neuronal cholinergic system. T cells-derived ACh is involved in a stimulation of their activation and proliferation, and acts as a regulator of immune response. The aim of the present work was to summarize the data about components of cholinergic machinery in T lymphocytes, with an emphasis on the comparison of healthy and leukemic T cells. Cell lines derived from acute lymphoblastic leukemias of T lineage (T-ALL) were found to produce a considerably higher amount of ACh than healthy T lymphocytes. Additionally, ACh produced by T-ALL is not efficiently hydrolyzed, because acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity is drastically decreased in these cells. Up-regulation of muscarinic ACh receptors was also demonstrated at expression and functional level, whereas nicotinic ACh receptors seem to play a less important role and not form functional channels in cells derived from T-ALL. We hypothesized that ACh over-produced in T-ALL may act as an autocrine growth factor and play an important role in leukemic clonal expansion through shaping of intracellular Ca²⁺ signals. We suggest that cholinergic machinery may be attractive targets for new drugs against T-ALL. Specifically, testing of high affinity antagonists of muscarinic ACh receptors as well as antagomiRs, which interfere with miRNAs involved in the suppression of AChE expression, may be the first choice options.

Pressure-dependent regulation of Ca2+ signalling in the vascular endothelium

Key points

Increased pressure suppresses endothelial control of vascular tone but it remains uncertain (1) how pressure is sensed by the endothelium and (2) how the vascular response is inhibited.

This study used a novel imaging method to study large numbers of endothelial cells in arteries that were in a physiological configuration and held at normal blood pressures.

Increased pressure suppressed endothelial IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signals.

Pressure modulated endothelial cell shape.

The changes in cell shape may alter endothelial Ca²⁺ signals by modulating the diffusive environment for Ca²⁺ near IP₃ receptors.

Endothelial pressure‐dependent mechanosensing may occur without a requirement for a conventional molecular mechanoreceptor.

Abstract

The endothelium is an interconnected network upon which haemodynamic mechanical forces act to control vascular tone and remodelling in disease. Ca²⁺ signalling is central to the endothelium's mechanotransduction and networked activity. However, challenges in imaging Ca²⁺ in large numbers of endothelial cells under conditions that preserve the intact physical configuration of pressurized arteries have limited progress in understanding how pressure‐dependent mechanical forces alter networked Ca²⁺ signalling. We developed a miniature wide‐field, gradient‐index (GRIN) optical probe designed to fit inside an intact pressurized artery that permitted Ca²⁺ signals to be imaged with subcellular resolution in a large number (∼200) of naturally connected endothelial cells at various pressures. Chemical (acetylcholine) activation triggered spatiotemporally complex, propagating inositol trisphosphate (IP₃)‐mediated Ca²⁺ waves that originated in clusters of cells and progressed from there across the endothelium. Mechanical stimulation of the artery, by increased intraluminal pressure, flattened the endothelial cells and suppressed IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signals in all activated cells. By computationally modelling Ca²⁺ release, endothelial shape changes were shown to alter the geometry of the Ca²⁺ diffusive environment near IP₃ receptor microdomains to limit IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signals as pressure increased. Changes in cell shape produce a geometric microdomain regulation of IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signalling to explain macroscopic pressure‐dependent, endothelial mechanosensing without the need for a conventional mechanoreceptor. The suppression of IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signalling may explain the decrease in endothelial activity as pressure increases. GRIN imaging provides a convenient method that gives access to hundreds of endothelial cells in intact arteries in physiological configuration.

Increased pressure suppresses endothelial control of vascular tone but it remains uncertain (1) how pressure is sensed by the endothelium and (2) how the vascular response is inhibited.

This study used a novel imaging method to study large numbers of endothelial cells in arteries that were in a physiological configuration and held at normal blood pressures.

Increased pressure suppressed endothelial IP₃‐mediated Ca²⁺ signals.

Pressure modulated endothelial cell shape.

The changes in cell shape may alter endothelial Ca²⁺ signals by modulating the diffusive environment for Ca²⁺ near IP₃ receptors.

Endothelial pressure‐dependent mechanosensing may occur without a requirement for a conventional molecular mechanoreceptor.