Acetylcholine activates non-selective cation and chloride conductances in canine and guinea-pig tracheal myocytes

A method for isolating contractile smooth muscle cells from cryopreserved tissue

Multiple techniques have been developed to isolate contractile smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from tissues with varying degrees of success. However, most of these approaches rely on obtaining fresh tissue, which poses logistical challenges. In the present study, we introduce a novel protocol for isolating contractile SMCs from cryopreserved smooth muscle (SM) tissue, thereby enhancing experimental efficiency. This protocol yields abundant viable, spindle-shaped, contractile SMCs that closely resemble those obtained from fresh samples. By analyzing the expression of contractile proteins, we demonstrate that both the isolated SMCs from cryopreserved tissue represent more accurately fresh SM tissue compared with cultured SMCs. Moreover, we demonstrate the importance of a brief incubation step of the tissue in culture medium before cell dissociation to achieve contractile SMCs. Finally, we provide a concise overview of our protocol optimization efforts, along with a summary of previously published methods, which could be valuable for the development of similar protocols for other species.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report a successful protocol development for isolating contractile smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from cryopreserved tissue reducing the reliance on fresh tissues and providing a readily available source of contractile SMCs. Our findings suggest that SMCs isolated using our protocol maintain their phenotype better compared with cultured SMCs. This preservation of the cellular characteristics, including the expression of key contractile proteins, makes these cells more representative of fresh SM tissue.

The TMEM16A blockers benzbromarone and MONNA cause intracellular Ca2+-release in mouse bronchial smooth muscle cells

We investigated effects of TMEM16A blockers benzbromarone, MONNA, CaCC_inhA01 and Ani9 on isometric contractions in mouse bronchial rings and on intracellular calcium in isolated bronchial myocytes. Separate concentrations of carbachol (0.1-10 μM) were applied for 10 min periods to bronchial rings, producing concentration-dependent contractions that were well maintained throughout each application period. Benzbromarone (1 μM) markedly reduced the contractions with a more pronounced effect on their sustained component (at 10 min) compared to their initial component (at 2 min). Iberiotoxin (0.3 μM) enhanced the contractions, but they were still blocked by benzbromarone. MONNA (3 μM) and CaCC_inhA01 (10 μM) had similar effects to benzbromarone, but were less potent. In contrast, Ani9 (10 μM) had no effect on carbachol-induced contractions. Confocal imaging revealed that benzbromarone (0.3 μM), MONNA (1 μM) and CaCC_inhA01 (10 μM) increased intracellular calcium in isolated myocytes loaded with Fluo-4AM. In contrast, Ani9 (10 μM) had no effect on intracellular calcium. Benzbromarone and MONNA also increased calcium in calcium-free extracellular solution, but failed to do so when intracellular stores were discharged with caffeine (10 mM). Caffeine was unable to cause further discharge of the store when applied in the presence of benzbromarone. Ryanodine (100 μM) blocked the ability of benzbromarone (0.3 μM) to increase calcium, while tetracaine (100 μM) reversibly reduced the rise in calcium induced by benzbromarone. We conclude that benzbromarone and MONNA caused intracellular calcium release, probably by opening ryanodine receptors. Their ability to block carbachol contractions was likely due to this off-target effect.

Full humanization of the glycolytic pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Although transplantation of single genes in yeast plays a key role in elucidating gene functionality in metazoans, technical challenges hamper humanization of full pathways and processes. Empowered by advances in synthetic biology, this study demonstrates the feasibility and implementation of full humanization of glycolysis in yeast. Single gene and full pathway transplantation revealed the remarkable conservation of glycolytic and moonlighting functions and, combined with evolutionary strategies, brought to light context-dependent responses. Human hexokinase 1 and 2, but not 4, required mutations in their catalytic or allosteric sites for functionality in yeast, whereas hexokinase 3 was unable to complement its yeast ortholog. Comparison with human tissues cultures showed preservation of turnover numbers of human glycolytic enzymes in yeast and human cell cultures. This demonstration of transplantation of an entire essential pathway paves the way for establishment of species-, tissue-, and disease-specific metazoan models.

Calcium-Activated Chloride Channels in Myometrial and Vascular Smooth Muscle

In smooth muscle tissues, calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCC) provide the major anionic channel. Opening of these channels leads to chloride efflux and depolarization of the myocyte membrane. In this way, activation of the channels by a rise of intracellular [Ca²⁺], from a variety of sources, produces increased excitability and can initiate action potentials and contraction or increased tone. We now have a good mechanistic understanding of how the channels are activated and regulated, due to identification of TMEM16A (ANO1) as the molecular entity of the channel, but key questions remain. In reviewing these channels and comparing two distinct smooth muscles, myometrial and vascular, we expose the differences that occur in their activation mechanisms, properties, and control. We find that the myometrium only expresses “classical,” Ca²⁺-activated, and voltage sensitive channels, whereas both tonic and phasic blood vessels express classical, and non-classical, cGMP-regulated CaCC, which are voltage insensitive. This translates to more complex activation and regulation in vascular smooth muscles, irrespective of whether they are tonic or phasic. We therefore tentatively conclude that although these channels are expressed and functionally important in all smooth muscles, they are probably not part of the mechanisms governing phasic activity. Recent knockdown studies have produced unexpected functional results, e.g. no effects on labour and delivery, and tone increasing in some but decreasing in other vascular beds, strongly suggesting that there is still much to be explored concerning CaCC in smooth muscle.

Reciprocal Correlations of Inflammatory and Calcium Signaling in Asthma Pathogenesis

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, which can be caused by exposure to an allergen, spasmogen, or be induced by exercise. Despite its prevalence, the exact mechanisms by which the airway becomes hyperresponsive in asthma are not fully understood. There is evidence that myosin light-chain kinase is overexpressed, with a concomitant downregulation of myosin light-chain phosphatase in the airway smooth muscle, leading to sustained contraction. Additionally, the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum ATPase may be affected by inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and TNF-α, which are all associated with asthmatic airway inflammation. IL-13 and TNF-α seem to promote sodium/calcium exchanger 1 overexpression as well. Anyhow, the exact mechanisms beyond these dysregulations need to be clarified. Of note, multiple studies show an association between asthma and the ORMLD3 gene, opening new perspectives to future potential gene therapies. Currently, several treatments are available for asthma, although many of them have systemic side effects, or are not effective in patients with severe asthma. Furthering our knowledge on the molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms of asthma plays a pivotal role for the development of new and more targeted treatments for patients who cannot totally benefit from the current therapies.

Smooth muscle cell-specific TMEM16A deletion does not alter Ca2+ signaling, uterine contraction, gestation length, or litter size in mice†

Ion channels in myometrial cells play critical roles in spontaneous and agonist-induced uterine contraction during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy maintenance, and parturition; thus, identifying the genes of ion channels in these cells and determining their roles are essential to understanding the biology of reproduction. Previous studies with in vitro functional and pharmacological approaches have produced controversial results regarding the presence and role of TMEM16A Ca2+-activated Cl- channels in myometrial cells. To unambiguously determine the function of this channel in these cells, we employed a genetic approach by using smooth muscle cell-specific TMEM16A deletion (i.e. TMEM16ASMKO) mice. We found that myometrial cells from TMEM16ASMKO mice generated the same pattern and magnitude in Ca2+ signals upon stimulation with KCl, oxytocin, and PGF2α compared to the isogenic control myometrial cells. At the uterine tissue level, TMEM16A deletion also did not cause detectable changes in either spontaneous or agonist (i.e. KCl, oxytocin, and PGF2α)-induced contractions. Moreover, in vivo the TMEM16ASMKO mice gave birth at full term with the same litter size as genetically identical control mice. Finally, TMEM16A immunostaining in both control and TMEM16ASMKO mice revealed that this protein was highly expressed in the endometrial stroma, but did not co-localize with a smooth muscle specific marker MYH11. Collectively, these results unequivocally demonstrate that TMEM16A does not serve as a pacemaking channel for spontaneous uterine contraction, neither does it function as a depolarizing channel for agonist-evoked uterine contraction. Yet these two functions could underlie the normal gestation length and litter size in the TMEM16ASMKO mice.

Canonical Transient Potential Receptor-3 Channels in Normal and Diseased Airway Smooth Muscle Cells

All seven canonical transient potential receptor (TRPC1-7) channel members are expressed in mammalian airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Among this family, TRPC3 channel plays an important role in the control of the resting [Ca²⁺]_i and agonist-induced increase in [Ca²⁺]_i. This channel is significantly upregulated in molecular expression and functional activity in airway diseases. The upregulated channel significantly augments the resting [Ca²⁺]_i and agonist-induced increase in [Ca²⁺]_i, thereby exerting a direct and essential effect in airway hyperresponsiveness. The increased TRPC3 channel-mediated Ca²⁺ signaling also results in the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation via protein kinase C-α (PKCα)-dependent inhibitor of NFκB-α (IκBα) and calcineurin-dependent IκBβ signaling pathways, which upregulates cyclin-D1 expression and causes cell proliferation, leading to airway remodeling. TRPC3 channel may further interact with intracellular release Ca²⁺ channels, Orai channels and Ca²⁺-sensing stromal interaction molecules, mediating important cellular responses in ASMCs and the development of airway diseases.

Inhibitory effects of openers of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels on agonist-induced phasic contractions in rabbit and mouse bronchial smooth muscle

Airway smooth muscle expresses abundant BK_Ca channels, but their role in regulating contractions remains controversial. This study examines the effects of two potent BK_Ca channel openers on agonist-induced phasic contractions in rabbit and mouse bronchi. First, we demonstrated the ability of 10 μM GoSlo-SR5-130 to activate BK_Ca channels in inside-out patches from rabbit bronchial myocytes, where it shifted the activation V_1/2 by -88 ± 11 mV (100 nM Ca²⁺, n = 7). In mouse airway smooth muscle cells, GoSlo-SR5-130 dose dependently shifted V_1/2 by 12-83 mV over a concentration range of 1-30 μM. Compound X, a racemic mixture of two enantiomers, reported to be potent BK_Ca channel openers, shifted V_1/2 by 20-79 mV over a concentration range of 0.3-3 μM. In rabbit bronchial rings, exposure to histamine (1 μM) induced phasic contractions after a delay of ~35 min. These were abolished by GoSlo-SR5-130 (30 μM). Nifedipine (100 nM) and CaCC_inhA01 (10 μM), a TMEM16A blocker, also abolished histamine-induced phasic contractions. In mouse bronchi, similar phasic contractions were evoked by exposure to U46619 (100 nM) and carbachol (100 nM). In each case, these were inhibited by concentrations of GoSlo-SR5-130 and compound X that shifted the activation V_1/2 of BK_Ca channels in the order of -80 mV. In conclusion, membrane potential-dependent regulation of L-type Ca²⁺ channels appears to be important for histamine-, U46619-, and carbachol-induced phasic contractions in airway smooth muscle. Contractions can be abolished by BK_Ca channel openers, suggesting that these channels are potential targets for treating some causes of airway obstruction.

Identification of Chloride Channels CLCN3 and CLCN5 Mediating the Excitatory Cl- Currents Activated by Sphingosine-1-Phosphate in Sensory Neurons

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid involved in numerous physiological and pathophysiological processes. We have previously reported a S1P-induced nocifensive response in mice by excitation of sensory neurons via activation of an excitatory chloride current. The underlying molecular mechanism for the S1P-induced chloride conductance remains elusive. In the present study, we identified two CLCN voltage-gated chloride channels, CLCN3 and CLCN5, which mediated a S1P-induced excitatory Cl^- current in sensory neurons by combining RNA-seq, adenovirus-based gene silencing and whole-cell electrophysiological voltage-clamp recordings. Downregulation of CLCN3 and CLCN5 channels by adenovirus-mediated delivery of shRNA dramatically reduced S1P-induced Cl^- current and membrane depolarization in sensory neurons. The mechanism of S1P-induced activation of the chloride current involved Rho GTPase but not Rho-associated protein kinase. Although S1P-induced potentiation of TRPV1-mediated ionic currents also involved Rho-dependent process, the lack of correlation of the S1P-activated Cl^- current and the potentiation of TRPV1 by S1P suggests that CLCN3 and CLCN5 are necessary components for S1P-induced excitatory Cl^- currents but not for the amplification of TRPV1-mediated currents in sensory neurons. This study provides a novel mechanistic insight into the importance of bioactive sphingolipids in nociception.

Inflammatory mediators mediate airway smooth muscle contraction through a G protein-coupled receptor-transmembrane protein 16A-voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel axis and contribute to bronchial hyperresponsiveness in asthma

BACKGROUND

Allergic inflammation has long been implicated in asthmatic hyperresponsiveness of airway smooth muscle (ASM), but its underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Serving as G protein-coupled receptor agonists, several inflammatory mediators can induce membrane depolarization, contract ASM, and augment cholinergic contractile response. We hypothesized that the signal cascade integrating on membrane depolarization by the mediators might involve asthmatic hyperresponsiveness.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to investigate the signaling transduction of inflammatory mediators in ASM contraction and assess its contribution in the genesis of hyperresponsiveness.

METHODS

We assessed the capacity of inflammatory mediators to induce depolarization currents by electrophysiological analysis. We analyzed the phenotypes of transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A) knockout mice, applied pharmacological reagents, and measured the Ca²⁺ signal during ASM contraction. To study the role of the depolarization signaling in asthmatic hyperresponsiveness, we measured the synergistic contraction by methacholine and inflammatory mediators both ex vivo and in an ovalbumin-induced mouse model.

RESULTS

Inflammatory mediators, such as 5-hydroxytryptamin, histamine, U46619, and leukotriene D₄, are capable of inducing Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- currents in ASM cells, and these currents are mediated by TMEM16A. A combination of multiple analysis revealed that a G protein-coupled receptor-TMEM16A-voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel signaling axis was required for ASM contraction induced by inflammatory mediators. Block of TMEM16A activity may significantly inhibit the synergistic contraction of acetylcholine and the mediators and hence reduces hypersensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

A G protein-coupled receptor-TMEM16A-voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel axis contributes to inflammatory mediator-induced ASM contraction and synergistically activated TMEM16A by allergic inflammatory mediators with cholinergic stimuli.

Network model predicts that CatSper is the main Ca2+ channel in the regulation of sea urchin sperm motility

Spermatozoa sea urchin swimming behaviour is regulated by small peptides from the egg outer envelope. Speract, such a peptide, after binding to its receptor in Strongylocentrotus purpuratus sperm flagella, triggers a signaling pathway that culminates with a train of intracellular calcium oscillations, correlated with changes in sperm swimming pattern. This pathway has been widely studied but not fully characterized. Recent work on Arbacia punctulata sea urchin spermatozoa has documented the presence of the Ca²⁺ CatSper channel in their flagella and its involvement in chemotaxis. However, if other calcium channels participate in chemotaxis remains unclear. Here, based on an experimentally-backed logical network model, we conclude that CatSper is fundamental in the S. purpuratus speract-activated sea urchin sperm signaling cascade, although other Ca²⁺ channels could still be relevant. We also present for the first time experimental corroboration of its active presence in S. purpuratus sperm flagella. We argue, prompted by in silico knock-out calculations, that CatSper is the main generator of calcium oscillations in the signaling pathway and that other calcium channels, if present, have a complementary role. The approach adopted here allows us to unveil processes, which are hard to detect exclusively by experimental procedures.

PKC-dependent regulation of Kv7.5 channels by the bronchoconstrictor histamine in human airway smooth muscle cells

Kv7 potassium channels have recently been found to be expressed and functionally important for relaxation of airway smooth muscle. Previous research suggests that native Kv7 currents are inhibited following treatment of freshly isolated airway smooth muscle cells with bronchoconstrictor agonists, and in intact airways inhibition of Kv7 channels is sufficient to induce bronchiolar constriction. However, the mechanism by which Kv7 currents are inhibited by bronchoconstrictor agonists has yet to be elucidated. In the present study, native Kv7 currents in cultured human trachealis smooth muscle cells (HTSMCs) were observed to be inhibited upon treatment with histamine; inhibition of Kv7 currents was associated with membrane depolarization and an increase in cytosolic Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_cyt). The latter response was inhibited by verapamil, a blocker of L-type voltage-sensitive Ca²⁺ channels (VSCCs). Protein kinase C (PKC) has been implicated as a mediator of bronchoconstrictor actions, although the targets of PKC are not clearly established. We found that histamine treatment significantly and dose-dependently suppressed currents through overexpressed wild-type human Kv7.5 (hKv7.5) channels in cultured HTSMCs, and this effect was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor Ro-31-8220 (3 µM). The PKC-dependent suppression of hKv7.5 currents corresponded with a PKC-dependent increase in hKv7.5 channel phosphorylation. Knocking down or inhibiting PKCα, or mutating hKv7.5 serine 441 to alanine, abolished the inhibitory effects of histamine on hKv7.5 currents. These findings provide the first evidence linking PKC activation to suppression of Kv7 currents, membrane depolarization, and Ca²⁺ influx via L-type VSCCs as a mechanism for histamine-induced bronchoconstriction.

β-Citronellol, an alcoholic monoterpene with inhibitory properties on the contractility of rat trachea

β-Citronellol is an alcoholic monoterpene found in essential oils such Cymbopogon citratus (a plant with antihypertensive properties). β-Citronellol can act against pathogenic microorganisms that affect airways and, in virtue of the popular use of β-citronellol-enriched essential oils in aromatherapy, we assessed its pharmacologic effects on the contractility of rat trachea. Contractions of isolated tracheal rings were recorded isometrically through a force transducer connected to a data-acquisition device. β-Citronellol relaxed sustained contractions induced by acetylcholine or high extracellular potassium, but half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for K(+)-elicited stimuli were smaller than those for cholinergic contractions. It also inhibited contractions induced by electrical field stimulation or sodium orthovanadate with pharmacologic potency equivalent to that seen against acetylcholine-induced contractions. When contractions were evoked by selective recruitment of Ca2+ from the extracellular medium, β-citronellol preferentially inhibited contractions that involved voltage-operated (but not receptor-operated) pathways. β-Citronellol (but not verapamil) inhibited contractions induced by restoration of external Ca2+ levels after depleting internal Ca2+ stores with the concomitant presence of thapsigargin and recurrent challenge with acetylcholine. Treatment of tracheal rings with L-NAME, indomethacin or tetraethylammonium did not change the relaxing effects of β-citronellol. Inhibition of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) or transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) receptors with selective antagonists caused no change in the effects of β-citronellol. In conclusion, β-citronellol exerted inhibitory effects on rat tracheal rings, with predominant effects on contractions that recruit Ca2+ inflow towards the cytosol by voltage-gated pathways, whereas it appears less active against contractions elicited by receptor-operated Ca2+ channels.

Molecular and functional significance of Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle

Increased peripheral resistance of small distal pulmonary arteries is a hallmark signature of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and is believed to be the consequence of enhanced vasoconstriction to agonists, thickening of the arterial wall due to remodeling, and increased thrombosis. The elevation in arterial tone in PH is attributable, at least in part, to smooth muscle cells of PH patients being more depolarized and displaying higher intracellular Ca(2+) levels than cells from normal subjects. It is now clear that downregulation of voltage-dependent K(+) channels (e.g., Kv1.5) and increased expression and activity of voltage-dependent (Cav1.2) and voltage-independent (e.g., canonical and vanilloid transient receptor potential [TRPC and TRPV]) Ca(2+) channels play an important role in the functional remodeling of pulmonary arteries in PH. This review focuses on an anion-permeable channel that is now considered a novel excitatory mechanism in the systemic and pulmonary circulations. It is permeable to Cl(-) and is activated by a rise in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration (Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel, or CaCC). The first section outlines the biophysical and pharmacological properties of the channel and ends with a description of the molecular candidate genes postulated to encode for CaCCs, with particular emphasis on the bestrophin and the newly discovered TMEM16 and anoctamin families of genes. The second section provides a review of the various sources of Ca(2+) activating CaCCs, which include stimulation by mobilization from intracellular Ca(2+) stores and Ca(2+) entry through voltage-dependent and voltage-independent Ca(2+) channels. The third and final section summarizes recent findings that suggest a potentially important role for CaCCs and the gene TMEM16A in PH.

In silico determination of the effect of multi-target drugs on calcium dynamics signaling network underlying sea urchin spermatozoa motility

The motility of spermatozoa of both Lytechinus pictus and Strongylocentrotus purpuratus sea urchin species is modulated by the egg-derived decapeptide speract via an oscillatory [Ca2+]-dependent signaling pathway. Comprehension of this pathway is hence directly related to the understanding of regulated sperm swimming. Niflumic acid (NFA), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug alters several ion channels. Though unspecific, NFA profoundly affects how sea urchin sperm respond to speract, increasing the [Ca2+]i oscillation period, amplitude, peak and average level values of the responses in immobilized and swimming cells. A previous logical network model we developed for the [Ca2+] dynamics of speract signaling cascade in sea urchin sperm allows integrated dissection of individual and multiple actions of NFA. Among the channels affected by NFA are: hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide gated Na+ channels (HCN), [Ca2+]-dependent Cl- channels (CaCC) and [Ca2+]-dependent K+ channels (CaKC), all present in the sea urchin genome. Here, using our model we investigated the effect of blocking in silico HCN and CaCC channels suggested by experiments. Regarding CaKC channels, arguments can be provided for either their blockage or activation by NFA. Our study yielded two scenarios compliant with experimental observations: i) under CaKC inhibition, this [Ca2+]-dependent K+ channel should be different from the Slo1 channel and ii) under activation of the CaKC channel, another [Ca2+] channel not considered previously in the network is required, such as the pH-dependent CatSper channel. Additionally, our findings predict cause-effect relations resulting from a selective inhibition of those channels. Knowledge of these relations may be of consequence for a variety of electrophysiological studies and have an impact on drug related investigations. Our study contributes to a better grasp of the network dynamics and suggests further experimental work.

TMEM16A knockdown abrogates two different Ca(2+)-activated Cl (-) currents and contractility of smooth muscle in rat mesenteric small arteries

The presence of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels (CaCCs) in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is well established. Their molecular identity is, however, elusive. Two distinct Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ currents (I_Cl(Ca)) were previously characterized in SMCs. We have shown that the cGMP-dependent I_Cl(Ca) depends on bestrophin expression, while the “classical” I_Cl(Ca) is not. Downregulation of bestrophins did not affect arterial contraction but inhibited the rhythmic contractions, vasomotion. In this study, we have used in vivo siRNA transfection of rat mesenteric small arteries to investigate the role of a putative CaCC, TMEM16A. Isometric force, [Ca²⁺]_i, and SMC membrane potential were measured in isolated arterial segments. I_Cl(Ca) and GTPγS-induced nonselective cation current were measured in isolated SMCs. Downregulation of TMEM16A resulted in inhibition of both the cGMP-dependent I_Cl(Ca) and the “classical” I_Cl(Ca) in SMCs. TMEM16A downregulation also reduced expression of bestrophins. TMEM16A downregulation suppressed vasomotion both in vivo and in vitro. Downregulation of TMEM16A reduced agonist (noradrenaline and vasopressin) and K⁺-induced contractions. In accordance with the depolarizing role of CaCCs, TMEM16A downregulation suppressed agonist-induced depolarization and elevation in [Ca²⁺]_i. Surprisingly, K⁺-induced depolarization was unchanged but Ca²⁺ entry was reduced. We suggested that this is due to reduced expression of the L-type Ca²⁺ channels, as observed at the mRNA level. Thus, the importance of TMEM16A for contraction is, at least in part, independent from membrane potential. This study demonstrates the significance of TMEM16A for two SMCs I_Cl(Ca) and vascular function and suggests an interaction between TMEM16A and L-type Ca²⁺ channels.

Functional expression of the TMEM16 family of calcium-activated chloride channels in airway smooth muscle

Airway smooth muscle hyperresponsiveness is a key component in the pathophysiology of asthma. Although calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) flux has been described in many cell types, including human airway smooth muscle (HASM), the true molecular identity of the channels responsible for this chloride conductance remains controversial. Recently, a new family of proteins thought to represent the true CaCCs was identified as the TMEM16 family. This led us to question whether members of this family are functionally expressed in native and cultured HASM. We further questioned whether expression of these channels contributes to the contractile function of HASM. We identified the mRNA expression of eight members of the TMEM16 family in HASM cells and show immunohistochemical evidence of TMEM16A in both cultured and native HASM. Functionally, we demonstrate that the classic chloride channel inhibitor, 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoic acid (NPPB), inhibited halide flux in cultured HASM cells. Moreover, HASM cells displayed classical electrophysiological properties of CaCCs during whole cell electrophysiological recordings, which were blocked by using an antibody selective for TMEM16A. Furthermore, two distinct TMEM16A antagonists (tannic acid and benzbromarone) impaired a substance P-induced contraction in isolated guinea pig tracheal rings. These findings demonstrate that multiple members of this recently described family of CaCCs are expressed in HASM cells, they display classic electrophysiological properties of CaCCs, and they modulate contractile tone in airway smooth muscle. The TMEM16 family may provide a novel therapeutic target for limiting airway constriction in asthma.

Chloride channel blockers promote relaxation of TEA-induced contraction in airway smooth muscle

Enhanced airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction is an important component in the pathophysiology of asthma. We have shown that ligand gated chloride channels modulate ASM contractile tone during the maintenance phase of an induced contraction, however the role of chloride flux in depolarization-induced contraction remains incompletely understood. To better understand the role of chloride flux under these conditions, muscle force (human ASM, guinea pig ASM), peripheral small airway luminal area (rat ASM) and airway smooth muscle plasma membrane electrical potentials (human cultured ASM) were measured. We found ex vivo guinea pig airway rings, human ASM strips and small peripheral airways in rat lungs slices relaxed in response to niflumic acid following depolarization-induced contraction induced by K(+) channel blockade with tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA). In isolated human airway smooth muscle cells TEA induce depolarization as measured by a fluorescent indicator or whole cell patch clamp and this depolarization was reversed by niflumic acid. These findings demonstrate that ASM depolarization induced contraction is dependent on chloride channel activity. Targeting of chloride channels may be a novel approach to relax hypercontractile airway smooth muscle in bronchoconstrictive disorders.

Niflumic acid disrupts marine spermatozoan chemotaxis without impairing the spatiotemporal detection of chemoattractant gradients

In many broadcast-spawning marine organisms, oocytes release chemicals that guide conspecific spermatozoa towards their source through chemotaxis. In the sea urchin Lytechinus pictus, the chemoattractant peptide speract triggers a train of fluctuations of intracellular Ca2+ concentration in the sperm flagella. Each transient Ca2+ elevation leads to a momentary increase in flagellar bending asymmetry, known as a chemotactic turn. Furthermore, chemotaxis requires a precise spatiotemporal coordination between the Ca2+-dependent turns and the form of chemoattractant gradient. Spermatozoa that display Ca2+-dependent turns while swimming down the chemoattractant gradient, and conversely suppress turning events while swimming up gradient, successfully approach the center of the gradient. Previous experiments in Strongylocentrotus purpuratus sea urchin spermatozoa showed that niflumic acid (NFA), an inhibitor of several ion channels, drastically altered the speract-induced Ca2+ fluctuations and swimming patterns. In this study, mathematical modeling of the speract-dependent Ca2+ signaling pathway suggests that NFA, by potentially affecting HCN, CaCC and CaKC channels, may alter the temporal organization of Ca2+ fluctuations, and therefore disrupt chemotaxis. Here we investigate our hypothesis using a novel automated method for analyzing sperm behavior. We show that NFA does indeed disrupt chemotactic responses of L. pictus spermatozoa, although the temporal coordination between the Ca2+-dependent turns and the form of chemoattractant gradient is unaltered. Instead, NFA disrupts sperm chemotaxis by altering the arc length traveled during each chemotactic turning event. This alteration in the chemotactic turn trajectory disorientates spermatozoa at the termination of the turning event. We conclude that NFA disrupts chemotaxis without affecting how the spermatozoa decode environmental cues.

The transmembrane protein 16A Ca(2+)-activated Cl- channel in airway smooth muscle contributes to airway hyperresponsiveness

RATIONALE

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder with a characteristic of airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) [Cl((Ca))] channels are inferred to be involved in AHR, yet their molecular nature and the cell type they act within to mediate this response remain unknown.

OBJECTIVES

Transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A) and TMEM16B are Cl((Ca)) channels, and activation of Cl((Ca)) channels in airway smooth muscle (ASM) contributes to agonist-induced airway contraction. We hypothesized that Tmem16a and/or Tmem16b encode Cl((Ca)) channels in ASM and mediate AHR.

METHODS

We assessed the expression of the TMEM16 family, and the effects of niflumic acid and benzbromarone on AHR and airway contraction, in an ovalbumin-sensitized mouse model of chronic asthma. We also cloned TMEM16A from ASM and examined the Cl(-) currents it produced in HEK293 cells. We further studied the impacts of TMEM16A deletion on Ca(2+) agonist-induced cell shortening, and on Cl((Ca)) currents activated by Ca(2+) sparks (localized, short-lived Ca(2+) transients due to the opening of ryanodine receptors) in mouse ASM cells.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

TMEM16A, but not TMEM16B, is expressed in ASM cells and its expression in these cells is up-regulated in ovalbumin-sensitized mice. Niflumic acid and benzbromarone prevent AHR and contraction evoked by methacholine in ovalbumin-sensitized mice. TMEM16A produces Cl((Ca)) currents with kinetics similar to native Cl((Ca)) currents. TMEM16A deletion renders Ca(2+) sparks unable to activate Cl((Ca)) currents, and weakens caffeine- and methacholine-induced cell shortening.

CONCLUSIONS

Tmem16a encodes Cl((Ca)) channels in ASM and contributes to Ca(2+) agonist-induced contraction. In addition, up-regulation of TMEM16A and its augmented activation contribute to AHR in an ovalbumin-sensitized mouse model of chronic asthma. TMEM16A may represent a potential therapeutic target for asthma.

A synthetic chloride channel relaxes airway smooth muscle of the rat

Synthetic ion channels may have potential therapeutic applications, provided they possess appropriate biological activities. The present study was designed to examine the ability of small molecule-based synthetic Cl^– channels to modulate airway smooth muscle responsiveness. Changes in isometric tension were measured in rat tracheal rings. Relaxations to the synthetic chloride channel SCC-1 were obtained during sustained contractions to KCl. The anion dependency of the effect of SCC-1 was evaluated by ion substitution experiments. The sensitivity to conventional Cl^– transport inhibitors was also tested. SCC-1 caused concentration-dependent relaxations during sustained contractions to potassium chloride. This relaxing effect was dependent on the presence of extracellular Cl^– and HCO₃⁻. It was insensitive to conventional Cl^– channels/transport inhibitors that blocked the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator and calcium-activated Cl^– channels. SCC-1 did not inhibit contractions induced by carbachol, endothelin-1, 5-hydroxytryptamine or the calcium ionophore A23187. SCC-1 relaxes airway smooth muscle during contractions evoked by depolarizing solutions. The Cl^– conductance conferred by this synthetic compound is distinct from the endogenous transport systems for chloride anions.

ATP-induced currents carried through P2X7 receptor in rat myometrial cells

OBJECTIVE

The functional significance of purinergic P2 receptors in the myometrium is unclear. We previously reported the ATP-induced ionic currents in rat myometrial cells, causing uterine contractility. The aim of this study is to determine the main P2X receptors that carry the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-induced currents.

STUDY DESIGN

We cloned predominantly expressed P2X7 receptors from rat myometrium and transfected into cultured COS-7 cells. Reconstructed P2X7 receptor currents were characterized using the whole-cell patch clamp method.

RESULTS

Extracellular ATP induced currents through P2X7 receptors with effective concentration (EC(50)) of 155 μmol/L, without desensitization. The myometrial P2X7 receptor was permeable to multiple monovalent cations with conductances ranked as K(+)>Cs(+)>Li(+)>Na(+). It was activated by P2X receptor agonists, with effectiveness ranked as 2',3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP (Bz-ATP)>>ATP>αβ-methylene ATP (αβ-MeATP)>2-methylthio ATP (2-MeSATP)>uridine triphosphate (UTP)>guanosine triphosphate (GTP)>adenosine diphosphate (ADP). These currents were blocked by selective P2X7 receptor antagonists and extracellular Mg(2+).

CONCLUSION

P2X7 receptors carry ATP-induced currents in rat myometrial cells.

Relaxant effects of the essential oil of Mentha pulegium L. in rat isolated trachea and urinary bladder

Objectives

We evaluated the relaxant activity of the essential oil of Mentha pulegium L. (EOMP) and pulegone in rat isolated tracheal and bladder smooth muscles.

Methods

Isometric contractions of isolated tracheal and bladder strips from male Wistar rats were induced by KCl (K60; 60 mm) or acetylcholine (ACh; 10 µm). EOMP and its majory compound pulegone were incubated, after contracting agent, with the tissues in cumulating concentrations.

Key findings

EOMP (3–300 µg/ml) inhibited the contractions induced by ACh and K60 in both tissues, but was more effective against the contractions induced by K60 in trachea (IC50 = 40.47 ± 3.27 µg/ml) compared with ACh. Its relaxant action rules out ganglia and NO participation. Pulegone (10−7 to 10−3  m) inhibited the contractions induced by ACh and K60 in both tissues. EOMP concentration-dependently inhibited the contractions evoked by addition of CaCl2 in depolarised trachea, suggesting inhibition of extracellular calcium entry.

Conclusions

These findings suggests that EOMP induced relaxant responses in pre-contracted smooth muscles of rat trachea and bladder, which are likely to be mediated via inhibition of calcium entry, mainly by its major compound, pulegone. These effects are coherent with the popular use of EOMP as an antispasmodic agent.

Reverse-mode NCX current in mouse airway smooth muscle: Na(+) and voltage dependence, contributions to Ca(2+) influx and contraction, and altered expression in a model of allergen-induced hyperresponsiveness

AIM

We examined the electrophysiological properties of reverse-mode Na(+) /Ca(2+) exchange (NCX) in mouse airway smooth muscle (ASM), assessing its contributions to regulation of [Ca(2+) ], and its expression in acute and chronic airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR).

METHODS

Membrane currents were studied in single murine ASM cells under voltage clamp at -60 mV using ramp depolarizing commands to +80 mV. Confocal fluorimetric and RT-PCR techniques were used to monitor changes in cytosolic [Ca(2+) ] and NCX expression, respectively.

RESULTS

With standard KCl-containing electrode, 30 μm KB-R7943 (an inhibitor of reverse-mode NCX activity) exhibited variable effects on membrane current, indicating modulation of more than one conductance. KB-R7943 activated outwardly rectifying current that was inhibited by 100 μm iberiotoxin (blocker of large-conductance Ca(2+) -dependent K(+) channels), indicating a direct enhancing effect of KB-R7943 on those K(+) channels. After obviating K(+) currents, we found that a current sensitive to 4-4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (blocker of Ca(2+) -dependent Cl- channels) was markedly increased by elevating [Na(+) ] in the electrode solution to 13, 15.5 and 18 mm and suppressed by KB-R7943, indicating Ca(2+) influx via reverse-mode NCX activity. With conditions preventing Ca(2+) influx through voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels but promoting that through NCX, we found that introduction of Ca(2+) led to marked but transient KB-R7943-sensitive elevation of [Ca(2+) ]. Additionally, KB-R7943 suppressed cholinergically evoked Ca(2+) waves. Finally, NCX1 expression was not significantly changed in allergen-induced AHR acute model but increased approx. 2.5-fold in a chronic model.

CONCLUSION

Reverse-mode NCX activity leads to a physiologically relevant increase in [Ca(2+) ] even under control conditions, and this may be exaggerated in allergen-induced AHR and asthma.

Chloride in airway smooth muscle: the ignored anion no longer?

This Perspectives accompanies an Editorial Focus that summarizes new developments concerning the role of chloride in airway smooth muscle physiology. We provide several observations and mechanistic insights to reconcile recent experimental evidence with existing paradigms concerning chloride channel-mediated effects on airway smooth muscle tone. In addition, we highlight the potentially complex and dynamic nature that chloride currents and membrane potential have on calcium handling and airway smooth muscle contractility.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. LXXXV: calcium-activated chloride channels

Calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs) are widely expressed in various tissues and implicated in physiological processes such as sensory transduction, epithelial secretion, and smooth muscle contraction. Transmembrane proteins with unknown function 16 (TMEM16A) has recently been identified as a major component of CaCCs. Detailed molecular analysis of TMEM16A will be needed to understand its structure-function relationships. The role this channel plays in physiological systems remains to be established and is currently a subject of intense investigation.

Kv7 potassium channels in airway smooth muscle cells: signal transduction intermediates and pharmacological targets for bronchodilator therapy

Expression and function of Kv7 (KCNQ) voltage-activated potassium channels in guinea pig and human airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) were investigated by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), patch-clamp electrophysiology, and precision-cut lung slices. qRT-PCR revealed expression of multiple KCNQ genes in both guinea pig and human ASMCs. Currents with electrophysiological and pharmacological characteristics of Kv7 currents were measured in freshly isolated guinea pig and human ASMCs. In guinea pig ASMCs, Kv7 currents were significantly suppressed by application of the bronchoconstrictor agonists methacholine (100 nM) or histamine (30 μM), but current amplitudes were restored by addition of a Kv7 channel activator, flupirtine (10 μM). Kv7 currents in guinea pig ASMCs were also significantly enhanced by another Kv7.2-7.5 channel activator, retigabine, and by celecoxib and 2,5-dimethyl celecoxib. In precision-cut human lung slices, constriction of airways by histamine was significantly reduced in the presence of flupirtine. Kv7 currents in both guinea pig and human ASMCs were inhibited by the Kv7 channel blocker XE991. In human lung slices, XE991 induced robust airway constriction, which was completely reversed by addition of the calcium channel blocker verapamil. These findings suggest that Kv7 channels in ASMCs play an essential role in the regulation of airway diameter and may be targeted pharmacologically to relieve airway hyperconstriction induced by elevated concentrations of bronchoconstrictor agonists.

Molecular expression and functional role of canonical transient receptor potential channels in airway smooth muscle cells

Multiple canonical or classic transient receptor potential (TRPC) molecules are expressed in animal and human airway smooth muscle cells (SMCs). TRPC3, but not TRPC1, is a major molecular component of native non-selective cation channels (NSCCs) to contribute to the resting [Ca(2+)](i) and muscarinic increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in freshly isolated airway SMCs. TRPC3-encoded NSCCs are significantly increased in expression and activity in airway SMCs from ovalbumin-sensitized/challenged "asthmatic" mice, whereas TRPC1-encoded channel activity, but not its expression, is largely augmented. The upregulated TRPC3- and TRPC1-encoded NSCC activity both mediate "asthmatic" membrane depolarization in airway SMCs. Supportively, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), an important asthma mediator, increases TRPC3 expression, and TRPC3 gene silencing inhibits TNFα-mediated augmentation of acetylcholine-evoked increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in passaged airway SMCs. In contrast, TRPC6 gene silencing has no effect on 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG)-evoked increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in primary isolated cells. These findings provide compelling information indicating that TRPC3-encoded NSCCs are important for physiological and pathological cellular responses in airway SMCs. However, continual studies are necessary to further determine whether, which, and how TRPC-encoded channels are involved in cellular responses in normal and diseased (e.g., asthmatic) airway SMCs.

BK channel β1 subunits regulate airway contraction secondary to M2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor mediated depolarization

The large conductance calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channel (BK channel) and its smooth muscle-specific β1 subunit regulate excitation–contraction coupling in many types of smooth muscle cells. However, the relative contribution of BK channels to control of M2- or M3-muscarinic acetylcholine receptor mediated airway smooth muscle contraction is poorly understood. Previously, we showed that knockout of the BK channel β1 subunit enhances cholinergic-evoked trachea contractions. Here, we demonstrate that the enhanced contraction of the BK β1 knockout can be ascribed to a defect in BK channel opposition of M2 receptor-mediated contractions. Indeed, the enhanced contraction of β1 knockout is eliminated by specific M2 receptor antagonism. The role of BK β1 to oppose M2 signalling is evidenced by a greater than fourfold increase in the contribution of L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels to contraction that otherwise does not occur with M2 antagonist or with β1 containing BK channels. The mechanism through which BK channels oppose M2-mediated recruitment of calcium channels is through a negative shift in resting voltage that offsets, rather than directly opposes, M2-mediated depolarization. The negative shift in resting voltage is reduced to similar extents by BK β1 knockout or by paxilline block of BK channels. Normalization of β1 knockout baseline voltage with low external potassium eliminated the enhanced M2-receptor mediated contraction. In summary, these findings indicate that an important function of BK/β1 channels is to oppose cholinergic M2 receptor-mediated depolarization and activation of calcium channels by restricting excitation–contraction coupling to more negative voltage ranges.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum function in smooth muscle

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of smooth muscles presents many intriguing facets and questions concerning its roles, especially as these change with development, disease, and modulation of physiological activity. The SR's function was originally perceived to be synthetic and then that of a Ca store for the contractile proteins, acting as a Ca amplification mechanism as it does in striated muscles. Gradually, as investigators have struggled to find a convincing role for Ca-induced Ca release in many smooth muscles, a role in controlling excitability has emerged. This is the Ca spark/spontaneous transient outward current coupling mechanism which reduces excitability and limits contraction. Release of SR Ca occurs in response to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, Ca, and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and depletion of SR Ca can initiate Ca entry, the mechanism of which is being investigated but seems to involve Stim and Orai as found in nonexcitable cells. The contribution of the elemental Ca signals from the SR, sparks and puffs, to global Ca signals, i.e., Ca waves and oscillations, is becoming clearer but is far from established. The dynamics of SR Ca release and uptake mechanisms are reviewed along with the control of luminal Ca. We review the growing list of the SR's functions that still includes Ca storage, contraction, and relaxation but has been expanded to encompass Ca homeostasis, generating local and global Ca signals, and contributing to cellular microdomains and signaling in other organelles, including mitochondria, lysosomes, and the nucleus. For an integrated approach, a review of aspects of the SR in health and disease and during development and aging are also included. While the sheer versatility of smooth muscle makes it foolish to have a "one model fits all" approach to this subject, we have tried to synthesize conclusions wherever possible.

Functional expression of purinergic P2X7 receptors in pregnant rat myometrium

ATP has been reported to enhance the membrane conductance of myometrial cells and uterine contractility. Purinergic P2 receptor expression has been reported in the myometrium, using molecular biology, but the functional identity of the receptor subtype has not been determined. In this study, ATP-induced currents were recorded and characterized in single myometrial cells from pregnant rats using whole cell patch clamping. Extracellular ATP was applied in the range of 10 muM-1 mM and induced currents with an EC(50) of 74 muM, with no desensitization, time dependency, or voltage dependency. The currents induced carried multiple monovalent cations, with conductances ranked as K(+) > Cs(+) > Li(+) > Na(+). They were activated by P2X receptor agonists, with their effectiveness ranked as 2',3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP >> ATP > alphabeta-methylene-ATP > 2-methylthio ATP > or = UTP > or = GTP > ADP. These currents were blocked by the selective P2X7 receptor antagonist 3-[5-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1 H-tetrazol-1-yl]methyl pyridine (A-438079). We therefore concluded that ATP-induced currents in rat myometrial cells crossed cell membranes via P2X7 receptors. We further showed that the ATP-induced currents were blocked by extracellular Mg(2+) (IC(50) = 0.26 mM). Clinically, administering extracellular Mg(2+) is known to inhibit uterine contraction. It therefore seems likely that uterine contraction may be induced by raised extracellular ATP and suppressed via Mg(2+) inhibiting P2X7 receptors. Further research is needed into the P2X7 receptor as a therapeutic target in abnormal uterine contraction, as a possible treatment for premature labor.

Activation of endogenous GABAA channels on airway smooth muscle potentiates isoproterenol-mediated relaxation

Reactive airway disease predisposes patients to episodes of acute smooth muscle mediated bronchoconstriction. We have for the first time recently demonstrated the expression and function of endogenous ionotropic GABA(A) channels on airway smooth muscle cells. We questioned whether endogenous GABA(A) channels on airway smooth muscle could augment beta-agonist-mediated relaxation. Guinea pig tracheal rings or human bronchial airway smooth muscles were equilibrated in organ baths with continuous digital tension recordings. After pretreatment with or without the selective GABA(A) antagonist gabazine (100 muM), airway muscle was contracted with acetylcholine or beta-ala neurokinin A, followed by relaxation induced by cumulatively increasing concentrations of isoproterenol (1 nM to 1 muM) in the absence or presence of the selective GABA(A) agonist muscimol (10-100 muM). In separate experiments, guinea pig tracheal rings were pretreated with the large conductance K(Ca) channel blocker iberiotoxin (100 nM) after an EC(50) contraction with acetylcholine but before cumulatively increasing concentrations of isoproterenol (1 nM to 1 uM) in the absence or presence of muscimol (100 uM). GABA(A) activation potentiated the relaxant effects of isoproterenol after an acetylcholine or tachykinin-induced contraction in guinea pig tracheal rings or an acetylcholine-induced contraction in human endobronchial smooth muscle. This muscimol-induced potentiation of relaxation was abolished by gabazine pretreatment but persisted after blockade of the maxi K(Ca) channel. Selective activation of endogenous GABA(A) receptors significantly augments beta-agonist-mediated relaxation of guinea pig and human airway smooth muscle, which may have important therapeutic implications for patients in severe bronchospasm.

Calcium signalling in smooth muscle

Calcium signalling in smooth muscles is complex, but our understanding of it has increased markedly in recent years. Thus, progress has been made in relating global Ca2+ signals to changes in force in smooth muscles and understanding the biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in Ca2+ sensitization, i.e. altering the relation between Ca2+ and force. Attention is now focussed more on the role of the internal Ca2+ store, the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), global Ca2+ signals and control of excitability. Modern imaging techniques have shown the elaborate SR network in smooth muscles, along with the expression of IP3 and ryanodine receptors. The role and cross-talk between these two Ca(2+) release mechanisms, as well as possible compartmentalization of the SR Ca2+ store are discussed. The close proximity between SR and surface membrane has long been known but the details of this special region to Ca2+ signalling and the role of local sub-membrane Ca2+ concentrations and membrane microdomains are only now emerging. The activation of K+ and Cl- channels by local Ca2+ signals, can have profound effects on excitability and hence contraction. We examine the evidence for both Ca2+ sparks and puffs in controlling ion channel activity, as well as a fundamental role for Ca2+ sparks in governing the period of inexcitability in smooth muscle, i.e. the refractory period. Finally, the relation between different Ca2+ signals, e.g. sparks, waves and transients, to smooth muscle activity in health and disease is becoming clearer and will be discussed.

Temporal and spatial dynamics underlying capacitative calcium entry in human colonic smooth muscle

Following smooth muscle excitation and contraction, depletion of intracellular Ca(2+) stores activates capacitative Ca(2+) entry (CCE) to replenish stores and sustain cytoplasmic Ca(2+) (Ca(2+)(i)) elevations. The objectives of the present study were to characterize CCE and the Ca(2+)(i) dynamics underlying human colonic smooth muscle contraction by using tension recordings, fluorescent Ca(2+)-indicator dyes, and patch-clamp electrophysiology. The neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) contracted tissue strips and, in freshly isolated colonic smooth muscle cells (SMCs), caused elevation of Ca(2+)(i) as well as activation of nonselective cation currents. To deplete Ca(2+)(i) stores, the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) inhibitors thapsigargin and cyclopiazonic acid were added to a Ca(2+)-free bathing solution. Under these conditions, addition of extracellular Ca(2+) (3 mM) elicited increased tension that was inhibited by the cation channel blockers SKF-96365 (10 microM) and lanthanum (100 microM), suggestive of CCE. In a separate series of experiments on isolated SMCs, SERCA inhibition generated a gradual and sustained inward current. When combined with high-speed Ca(2+)-imaging techniques, the CCE-evoked rise of Ca(2+)(i) was associated with inward currents carrying Ca(2+) that were inhibited by SKF-96365. Regional specializations in Ca(2+) influx and handling during CCE were observed. Distinct "hotspot" regions of Ca(2+) rise and plateau were evident in 70% of cells, a feature not previously recognized in smooth muscle. We propose that store-operated Ca(2+) entry occurs in hotspots contributing to localized Ca(2+) elevations in human colonic smooth muscle.

Calcium sparks activate calcium-dependent Cl− current in rat corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells

Spontaneous transient currents, due to activation of Ca2+-dependent K+ and Cl− channels, occur in corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMC) of the penis. The Ca2+ events responsible for triggering Ca2+-dependent Cl− channels have never been identified in vascular muscle. We used high-speed fluorescence imaging combined with patch-clamp electrophysiology to provide the first characterization of Ca2+ events underlying these currents. Freshly isolated rat CCSMC loaded with fluo-4 exhibited localized, spontaneous elevations of intracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+ sparks) in 57% of cells. There was an average of 6.4 ± 0.5 release sites/cell with a frequency of 0.9 ± 1 Hz/cell and peak amplitude ΔF/Fo of 67 ± 10%. We addressed the controversy of whether these events are mediated by ryanodine or inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP3) receptors. Caffeine caused either a global Ca2+ rise at high concentrations or an increase in spark frequency at lower concentrations, whereas ryanodine dramatically reduced the amplitude and frequency of sparks. 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inhibitor of IP3 receptors, had no effect on spark frequency. Combined imaging and electrophysiological recording revealed strong coupling between Ca2+ sparks and biphasic transient currents, a relationship never before shown in vascular muscle. Moreover, spark frequency increased on depolarization, an effect abolished with the blockade of Ca2+ channels, consistent with Ca2+ influx regulating Ca2+ release from stores. We establish for the first time that Ca2+ sparks occur in CCSMC and arise from Ca2+ release through ryanodine receptors. Moreover, the voltage dependence of spark frequency demonstrated here provides novel functional evidence for voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx in CCSMC.

Inhibition of ryanodine receptors by 4-(2-aminopropyl)-3,5-dichloro-N,N-dimethylaniline (FLA 365) in canine pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

Ryanodine is a selective ryanodine receptor (RyR) blocker, with binding dependent on RyR opening. In whole-cell studies, ryanodine binding can lock the RyR in an open-conductance state, short-circuiting the sarcoplasmic reticulum, which restricts studies of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) activity. Other RyR blockers have nonselective effects that also limit their utility. 4-(2-aminopropyl)-3,5-dichloro-N,N-dimethylaniline (FLA 365) blocks RyR-elicited Ca2+ increases in skeletal and cardiac muscle; yet, its actions on smooth muscle are unknown. Canine pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) express both RyRs and InsP3Rs; thus, we tested the ability of FLA 365 to block RyR- and serotonin-mediated InsP3R-elicited Ca2+ release by imaging fura-2-loaded PASMCs. Acute exposure to 10 mM caffeine, a selective RyR activator, induced Ca2+ increases that were reversibly reduced by FLA 365, with an estimated IC50 of approximately 1 to 1.5 microM, and inhibited by 10 microM ryanodine or 10 microM cyclopiazonic acid. FLA 365 also blocked L-type Ca2+ channel activity, with 10 microM reducing Ba2+ current amplitude in patch voltage-clamp studies to 54 +/- 6% of control and 100 microM FLA 365 reducing membrane current to 21 +/- 6%. InsP3R-mediated Ca2+ responses elicited by 10 microM 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) in canine PASMCs and 100 microM carbachol in human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells were not reduced by 2 microM FLA 365, but they were reduced by 20 microM FLA 365 to 76 +/- 9% of control in canine PASMCs and 52 +/- 1% in HEK-293 cells. Thus, FLA 365 preferentially blocks RyRs with limited inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channels or InsP3R in canine PASMCs.

Airway smooth muscle dynamics: a common pathway of airway obstruction in asthma

Excessive airway obstruction is the cause of symptoms and abnormal lung function in asthma. As airway smooth muscle (ASM) is the effecter controlling airway calibre, it is suspected that dysfunction of ASM contributes to the pathophysiology of asthma. However, the precise role of ASM in the series of events leading to asthmatic symptoms is not clear. It is not certain whether, in asthma, there is a change in the intrinsic properties of ASM, a change in the structure and mechanical properties of the noncontractile components of the airway wall, or a change in the interdependence of the airway wall with the surrounding lung parenchyma. All these potential changes could result from acute or chronic airway inflammation and associated tissue repair and remodelling. Anti-inflammatory therapy, however, does not "cure" asthma, and airway hyperresponsiveness can persist in asthmatics, even in the absence of airway inflammation. This is perhaps because the therapy does not directly address a fundamental abnormality of asthma, that of exaggerated airway narrowing due to excessive shortening of ASM. In the present study, a central role for airway smooth muscle in the pathogenesis of airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma is explored.

Reduced rather than enhanced cholinergic airway constriction in mice with ablation of the large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel

The unique voltage- and Ca2+-dependent K+ (BK) channel, prominently expressed in airway smooth muscle cells, has been suggested as an important effector in controlling airway contractility. Its deletion in mice depolarized resting membrane potential of tracheal cells, suggesting an increased open-probability of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. While carbachol concentration-dependently increased the tonic tension of wild-type (WT) trachea, mutant trachea showed a different response with rapid tension development followed by phasic contractions superimposed on a tonic component. Tonic contractions were substantially more dependent on L-type Ca2+ current in mutant than in WT trachea, even though L-type Ca2+ channels were not up-regulated. In the absence of L-type Ca2+ current, half-maximal contraction of trachea was shifted from 0.51 to 1.7 microM. In agreement, cholinergic bronchoconstriction was reduced in mutant lung slices, isolated-perfused lungs and, most impressively, in mutant mice analyzed by body plethysmography. Furthermore, isoprenaline-mediated airway relaxation was enhanced in mutants. In-depth analysis of cAMP and cGMP signaling revealed up-regulation of the cGMP pathway in mutant tracheal muscle. Inhibition of cGMP kinase reestablished normal sensitivity toward carbachol, indicating that up-regulation of cGMP signaling counterbalances for BK channel ablation, pointing to a predominant role of BK channel in regulation of airway tone.

Ca2+ microdomains in smooth muscle

In smooth muscle, Ca(2+) controls diverse activities including cell division, contraction and cell death. Of particular significance in enabling Ca(2+) to perform these multiple functions is the cell's ability to localize Ca(2+) signals to certain regions by creating high local concentrations of Ca(2+) (microdomains), which differ from the cytoplasmic average. Microdomains arise from Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane or release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) store. A single Ca(2+) channel can create a microdomain of several micromolar near (approximately 200 nm) the channel. This concentration declines quickly with peak rates of several thousand micromolar per second when influx ends. The high [Ca(2+)] and the rapid rates of decline target Ca(2+) signals to effectors in the microdomain with rapid kinetics and enable the selective activation of cellular processes. Several elements within the cell combine to enable microdomains to develop. These include the brief open time of ion channels, localization of Ca(2+) by buffering, the clustering of ion channels to certain regions of the cell and the presence of membrane barriers, which restrict the free diffusion of Ca(2+). In this review, the generation of microdomains arising from Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane and the release of the ion from the SR Ca(2+) store will be discussed and the contribution of mitochondria and the Golgi apparatus as well as endogenous modulators (e.g. cADPR and channel binding proteins) will be considered.

Airway smooth muscle as a target of asthma therapy: history and new directions

Ultimately, asthma is a disease characterized by constriction of airway smooth muscle (ASM). The earliest approach to the treatment of asthma comprised the use of xanthines and anti-cholinergics with the later introduction of anti-histamines and anti-leukotrienes. Agents directed at ion channels on the smooth muscle membrane (Ca2+ channel blockers, K+ channel openers) have been tried and found to be ineffective. Functional antagonists, which modulate intracellular signalling pathways within the smooth muscle (beta-agonists and phosphodiesterase inhibitors), have been used for decades with success, but are not universally effective and patients continue to suffer with exacerbations of asthma using these drugs. During the past several decades, research energies have been directed into developing therapies to treat airway inflammation, but there have been no substantial advances in asthma therapies targeting the ASM. In this manuscript, excitation-contraction coupling in ASM is addressed, highlighting the current treatment of asthma while proposing several new directions that may prove helpful in the management of this disease.

Regulation of TRP-like muscarinic cation current in gastrointestinal smooth muscle with special reference to PLC/InsP3/Ca2+ system

Acetylcholine, the main enteric excitatory neuromuscular transmitter, evokes membrane depolarization and contraction of gastrointestinal smooth muscle cells by activating G protein-coupled muscarinic receptors. Although the cholinergic excitation is generally underlined by the multiplicity of ion channel effects, the primary event appears to be the opening of cation-selective channels; among them the 60 pS channel has been recently identified as the main target for the acetylcholine action in gastrointestinal myocytes. The evoked cation current, termed mI(CAT), causes either an oscillatory or a more sustained membrane depolarization response, which in turn leads to increases of the open probability of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, thus providing Ca2+ entry in parallel with Ca2+ release for intracellular Ca2+ concentration rise and contraction. In recent years there have been several significant developments in our understanding of the signaling processes underlying mICAT generation. They have revealed important synergistic interactions between M2 and M3 receptor subtypes, single channel mechanisms, and the involvement of TRPC-encoded proteins as essential components of native muscarinic cation channels. This review summarizes these recent findings and in particular discusses the roles of the phospholipase C/InsP3/intracellular Ca2+ release system in the mI(CAT) physiological regulation.

Muscarinic cationic current in gastrointestinal smooth muscles: signal transduction and role in contraction

1 The muscarinic receptor plays a key role in the parasympathetic nervous control of various peripheral tissues including gastrointestinal tract. The neurotransmitter acetylcholine, via activating muscarinic receptors that exist in smooth muscle, produces its contraction. 2 There is the opening of cationic channels as an underlying mechanism. The opening of cationic channels results in influxes of Ca2+ via the channels into the cell and also via voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels which secondarily opened in response to the depolarization, providing an amount of Ca2+ for activation of the contractile proteins. 3 Electrophysiological and pharmacological studies have shown that the cationic channels as well as muscarinic receptors exist in many visceral smooth muscle cells. However, the activation mechanisms of the cationic channels are still unclear. 4 In this article, we summarize the current knowledge of the muscarinic receptor-operated cationic channels, focusing on the receptor subtype, G protein and other signalling molecules that are involved in activation of these channels and on the molecular characteristics of the channel. This will improve strategies aimed at developing new selective pharmacological agents and understanding the activation mechanism and functions of these channels in physiological systems.

Increased responsiveness to 5-hydroxytryptamine after antigenic challenge is inhibited by nifedipine and niflumic acid in rat trachea in vitro

Antigenic challenge often induces hyperreactivity in asthmatic airway, although the precise mechanism(s) underlying this increased responsiveness is not entirely known. Tracheae obtained from ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized saline- or OVA-challenged rats were placed in 10 mL bath chambers for isometric recording of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-induced contractions. 5-Hydroxytryptamine induced a stronger contraction compared with control in antigen-challenged trachea under normal or Ca2+-free conditions. In tracheae pretreated with the L-type Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine (10(-6) mol/L) or the Ca2+-activated Cl- channel blocker niflumic acid (10(-4) mol/L), this hyperresponsiveness was not developed in either normal or Ca2+-free medium. The increased contractile response to 5-HT in allergic rat isolated trachea may be related to a greater ionic (Ca2+ and Cl-) channel involvement.