Dual effect of blocking agents on Ca2+-activated Cl(-) currents in rabbit pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Translational potential of targeting Anoctamin-1-Encoded Calcium-Activated chloride channels in hypertension

Calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCC) provide a depolarizing stimulus to a variety of tissues through chloride efflux in response to a rise in internal Ca²⁺ and voltage. One of these channels, Anoctamin-1 (ANO1 or TMEM16A) is now recognized to play a central role in promoting smooth muscle tone in various types of blood vessels. Its role in hypertension, and thus the therapeutic promise of targeting ANO1, is less straightforward. This review gives an overview of our current knowledge about the potential role ANO1 may play in hypertension within the systemic, portal, and pulmonary vascular systems and the importance of this information when pursuing potential treatment strategies. While the role of ANO1 is well-established in several forms of pulmonary hypertension, its contributions to both the generation of vascular tone and its role in hypertension within the systemic and portal systems are much less clear. This, combined with ANO1's various roles throughout a multitude of tissues throughout the body, command caution when targeting ANO1 as a therapeutic target and may require tissue-selective strategies.

Drug Repurposing: The Anthelmintics Niclosamide and Nitazoxanide Are Potent TMEM16A Antagonists That Fully Bronchodilate Airways

There is an unmet need in severe asthma where approximately 40% of patients exhibit poor β-agonist responsiveness, suffer daily symptoms and show frequent exacerbations. Antagonists of the Ca2+-activated Cl- channel, TMEM16A, offers a new mechanism to bronchodilate airways and block the multiple contractiles operating in severe disease. To identify TMEM16A antagonists we screened a library of ∼580,000 compounds. The anthelmintics niclosamide, nitazoxanide, and related compounds were identified as potent TMEM16A antagonists that blocked airway smooth muscle depolarization and contraction. To evaluate whether TMEM16A antagonists resist use- and inflammatory-desensitization pathways limiting β-agonist action, we tested their efficacy under harsh conditions using maximally contracted airways or airways pretreated with a cytokine cocktail. Stunningly, TMEM16A antagonists fully bronchodilated airways, while the β-agonist isoproterenol showed only partial effects. Thus, antagonists of TMEM16A and repositioning of niclosamide and nitazoxanide represent an important additional treatment for patients with severe asthma and COPD that is poorly controlled with existing therapies. It is of note that drug repurposing has also attracted wide interest in niclosamide and nitazoxanide as a new treatment for cancer and infectious disease. For the first time we identify TMEM16A as a molecular target for these drugs and thus provide fresh insights into their mechanism for the treatment of these disorders in addition to respiratory disease.

Influence of intracellular Ca2+ and alternative splicing on the pharmacological profile of ANO1 channels

Anoctamin-1 (ANO1) is a Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel expressed in many types of cells. Splice variants of ANO1 have been shown to influence the biophysical properties of conductance. It has been suggested that several new antagonists of ANO1 with relatively high affinity and selectivity might be useful for experimental and, potentially, therapeutic purposes. We investigated the effects of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) at 100-1,000 nM, a concentration range that might be achieved in cells during physiological activation of ANO1 channels, on blockade of ANO1 channels expressed in HEK-293 cells. Whole cell and excised patch configurations of the patch-clamp technique were used to perform tests on a variety of naturally occurring splice variants of ANO1. Blockade of ANO1 currents with aminophenylthiazole (T16Ainh-A01) was highly dependent on [Ca(2+)]i Increasing [Ca(2+)]i reduced the potency of this blocker. Similar Ca(2+)-dependent effects were also observed with benzbromarone. Experiments on excised, inside-out patches showed that the diminished potency of the blockers caused by intracellular Ca(2+) might involve a competitive interaction for a common binding site or repulsion of the blocking drugs by electrostatic forces at the cytoplasmic surface of the channels. The degree of interaction between the channel blockers and [Ca(2+)]i depends on the splice variant expressed. These experiments demonstrate that the efficacy of ANO1 antagonists depends on [Ca(2+)]i, suggesting a need for caution when ANO1 blockers are used to determine the role of ANO1 in physiological functions and in their use as therapeutic agents.

Pharmacological characterization of TMEM16A currents

Recent studies have shown that transmembrane protein 16 A (TMEM16A) is a subunit of calcium-activated chloride channels (CACCs). Pharmacological agents have been used to probe the functional role of CACCs, however their effect on TMEM16A currents has not been systematically investigated. In the present study, we characterized the voltage and concentration-dependent effects of 2 traditional CACC inhibitors (niflumic acid and anthracene-9-carboxcylic acid) and 2 novel CACC / TMEM16A inhibitors (CACC(inh)A01 and T16A(inh)A01) on TMEM16A currents. The whole cell patch clamp technique was used to record TMEM16A currents from HE K 293 cells that stably expressed human TMEM16A. Niflumic acid, A-9-C, CACC(inh)A01 and T16A(inh)A01 inhibited TMEM16A currents with IC50 values of 12, 58, 1.7 and 1.5 μM, respectively, however, A-9-C and niflumic acid were less efficacious at negative membrane potentials. A-9-C and niflumic acid reduced the rate of TMEM16A tail current deactivation at negative membrane potentials and A-9-C (1 mM) enhanced peak TMEM16A tail current amplitude. In contrast, the inhibitory effects of CACC(inh)A01 and T16A(inh)A01 were independent of voltage and they did not prolong the rate of TMEM16A tail current deactivation. The effects of niflumic acid and A-9-C on TMEM16A currents were similar to previous observations on CACCs in vascular smooth muscle, strengthening the hypothesis that they are encoded by TMEM16A. However, CACC(inh)A01 and T16A(inh)A01 were more potent inhibitors of TMEM16A channels and their effects were not diminished at negative membrane potentials making them attractive candidates to interrogate the functional role of TMEM16A channels in future studies.

The bestrophin- and TMEM16A-associated Ca(2+)- activated Cl(–) channels in vascular smooth muscles

The presence of Ca²⁺-activated Cl^– currents (I_Cl(Ca)) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is well established. I_Cl(Ca) are supposedly important for arterial contraction by linking changes in [Ca²⁺]_i and membrane depolarization. Bestrophins and some members of the TMEM16 protein family were recently associated with I_Cl(Ca). Two distinct I_Cl(Ca) are characterized in VSMCs; the cGMP-dependent I_Cl(Ca) dependent upon bestrophin expression and the ‘classical’ Ca²⁺-activated Cl^– current, which is bestrophin-independent. Interestingly, TMEM16A is essential for both the cGMP-dependent and the classical I_Cl(Ca). Furthermore, TMEM16A has a role in arterial contraction while bestrophins do not. TMEM16A’s role in the contractile response cannot be explained however only by a simple suppression of the depolarization by Cl^– channels. It is suggested that TMEM16A expression modulates voltage-gated Ca²⁺ influx in a voltage-independent manner and recent studies also demonstrate a complex role of TMEM16A in modulating other membrane proteins.

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.

Characterization of the effects of Cl⁻ channel modulators on TMEM16A and bestrophin-1 Ca²⁺ activated Cl⁻ channels

The Ca(2+) activated Cl(-) channels (CaCCs) play a multitude of important physiological functions. A number of candidate proteins have been proposed to form CaCC, but only two families, the bestrophins and the TMEM16 proteins, recapitulate the properties of native CaCC in expression systems. Studies of endogenous CaCCs are hindered by the lack of specific pharmacology as most Cl(-) channel modulators lack selectivity and a systematic comparison of the effects of these modulators on TMEM16A and bestrophin is missing. In the present study, we studied seven Cl(-) channel inhibitors: niflumic acid (NFA), NPPB, flufenamic acid (FFA), DIDS, tannic acid, CaCCinh-A01 and T16Ainh-A01 for their effects on TMEM16A and bestrophin-1 (Best1) stably expressed in CHO (Chinese hamster ovary) cells using patch clamp technique. Among seven inhibitors studied, NFA showed highest selectivity for TMEM16A (IC50 of 7.40 ± 0.95 μM) over Best1 (IC50 of 102.19 ± 15.05 μM). In contrast, DIDS displayed a reverse selectivity inhibiting Best1 with IC50 of 3.93 ± 0.73 μM and TMEM16A with IC50 of 548.86 ± 25.57 μM. CaCCinh-A01 was the most efficacious blocker for both TMEM16A and Best1 channels. T16Ainh-A01 partially inhibited TMEM16A currents but had no effect on Best1 currents. Tannic acid, NPPB and FFA had variable intermediate effects. Potentiation of channel activity by some of these modulators and the effects on TMEM16A deactivation kinetics were also described. Characterization of Cl(-) channel modulators for their effects on TMEM16A and Best1 will facilitate future studies of native CaCCs.

Excitation of rat sympathetic neurons via M1 muscarinic receptors independently of Kv7 channels

The slow cholinergic transmission in autonomic ganglia is known to be mediated by an inhibition of K_v7 channels via M₁ muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. However, in the present experiments using primary cultures of rat superior cervical ganglion neurons, the extent of depolarisation caused by the M₁ receptor agonist oxotremorine M did not correlate with the extent of K_v7 channel inhibition in the very same neuron. This observation triggered a search for additional mechanisms. As the activation of M₁ receptors leads to a boost in protein kinase C (PKC) activity in sympathetic neurons, various PKC enzymes were inhibited by different means. Interference with classical PKC isoforms led to reductions in depolarisations and in noradrenaline release elicited by oxotremorine M, but left the K_v7 channel inhibition by the muscarinic agonist unchanged. M₁ receptor-induced depolarisations were also altered when extra- or intracellular Cl⁻ concentrations were changed, as were depolarising responses to γ-aminobutyric acid. Depolarisations and noradrenaline release triggered by oxotremorine M were reduced by the non-selective Cl⁻ channel blockers 4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyanato-stilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid and niflumic acid. Oxotremorine M induced slowly rising inward currents at negative membrane potentials that were blocked by inhibitors of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ and TMEM16A channels and attenuated by PKC inhibitors. These channel blockers also reduced oxotremorine M-evoked noradrenaline release. Together, these results reveal that slow cholinergic excitation of sympathetic neurons involves the activation of classical PKCs and of Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels in addition to the well-known inhibition of K_v7 channels.

Possibility of inhibition of calcium-activated chloride channel rescuing erectile failures in diabetes

Although calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) blockers, niflumic acid (NFA) and anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (A9C), have been shown as potential erectogenic agents in healthy corpus cavernosum (CC) tissues, the pharmacological characteristics of CaCC blockers in diabetic state are relatively unknown. This study compares the direct muscle relaxant property of NFA and A9C with their influence on contraction and nitrergic relaxation as elicited by electrical field stimulation in normal and 16-week-old diabetic rabbit CC (n=8). Mean blood glucose level in alloxan-treated rabbits was elevated threefold (21.9±0.5 mmol  l(-1) vs 7.1±0.2 mmol l(-1) in untreated rabbits; P<0.05). There was no significant alteration in the efficacies of NFA and A9C in eliciting a concentration-dependent relaxation of noradrenaline-induced cavernosum tone and in inhibiting neurogenic contraction of CC from diabetic rabbits. The capability of NFA (100 μM) and A9C (1 mM) in augmenting nitrergic transmission was also not adversely affected by diabetes. However, in CC from diabetic rabbits, A9C markedly increased nitrergic relaxation response to 1-10 Hz by 10.6-36.6% (vs -5.1-0.8% in nondiabetic control). CaCC sensitivity to A9C appears to be enhanced in diabetic CC tissue. Inhibiting the CaCC activity in diabetes-related ED may tip the balance between proerectile/relaxant and antierectile/contractile mechanisms in favor of cavernosum relaxation.

Low concentrations of niflumic acid enhance basal spontaneous and carbachol-induced contractions of the detrusor

PURPOSE

The urinary bladder expresses Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels (CACC), but its physiological role in governing contractility remains to be defined. The CACC modulator niflumic acid (NFA) is widely used despite the variable results arisen from different drug concentrations used. This study was designed to examine the effects of NFA at low concentrations on detrusor strip contractility.

METHODS

Rat detrusor strips with mucosa-intact (+MU) and mucosa-denuded (-MU) were prepared in transverse (Tr) and longitudinal (Lg) with respect to the bladder orientation. Isometric force measurements were made at baseline (for spontaneous phasic contractile activity) and during drug stimulation (by carbachol, CCh) with and without NFA.

RESULTS

NFA (1 and 10 μmol/L) pretreatment enhanced CCh-induced contractions more in +MU than -MU strips with no selectivity on contractile direction. For spontaneous phasic contractions, NFA-treated strips in the Tr direction showed increased phasic amplitude, while phasic frequency was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest low concentrations of NFA having a potentiating effect on detrusor contractions that was sensitive to the MU and contractile direction.

Potent vasorelaxant activity of the TMEM16A inhibitor T16A(inh) -A01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

T16A(inh) -A01 is a recently identified inhibitor of the calcium-activated chloride channel TMEM16A. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of T16A(inh) -A01 for inhibition of calcium-activated chloride channels in vascular smooth muscle and consequent effects on vascular tone.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Single channel and whole cell patch clamp was performed on single smooth muscle cells from rabbit pulmonary artery and mouse thoracic aorta. Isometric tension studies were performed on mouse thoracic aorta and mesenteric artery as well as human abdominal visceral adipose artery.

KEY RESULTS

In rabbit pulmonary artery myocytes T16A(inh) -A01 (1-30 μM) inhibited single calcium (Ca(2+) )-activated chloride (Cl(-) ) channels and whole cell currents activated by 500 nM free Ca(2+) . Similar effects were observed for single Ca(2+) -activated Cl(-) channels in mouse thoracic aorta, and in both cell types, channel activity was abolished by two antisera raised against TMEM16A but not by a bestrophin antibody. The TMEM16A potentiator, F(act) (10 μM), increased single channel and whole cell Ca(2+) -activated Cl(-) currents in rabbit pulmonary arteries. In isometric tension studies, T16A(inh) -A01 relaxed mouse thoracic aorta pre-contracted with methoxamine with an IC(50) of 1.6 μM and suppressed the methoxamine concentration-effect curve. T16A(inh) -A01 did not affect the maximal contraction produced by 60 mM KCl and the relaxant effect of 10 μM T16A(inh) -A01 was not altered by incubation of mouse thoracic aorta in a cocktail of potassium (K(+) ) channel blockers. T16A(inh) -A01 (10 μM) also relaxed human visceral adipose arteries by 88 ± 3%.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

T16A(inh) -A01 blocks calcium-activated chloride channels in vascular smooth muscle cells and relaxes murine and human blood vessels.

Novel 5-substituted benzyloxy-2-arylbenzofuran-3-carboxylic acids as calcium activated chloride channel inhibitors

Transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A) channels are recently discovered membrane proteins that functions as a calcium activated chloride channel (CaCC). CaCCs are major regulators of various physiological processes, such as sensory transduction, epithelial secretion, smooth muscle contraction and oocyte fertilization. Thirty novel 5-substituted benzyloxy-2-arylbenzofuran-3-carboxylic acids (B01-B30) were synthesized and evaluated for their TMEM16A inhibitory activity by using short circuit current measurements in Fischer rat thyroid (FRT) cells expressing human TMEM16A. IC(50) values were calculated using YFP fluorescence plate reader assay. Final compounds, having free carboxylic group displayed significant inhibition. Eight of the novel compounds B02, B13, B21, B23, B25, B27, B28, B29 exhibit excellent CaCCs inhibition with IC(50) value <6 μM, with compound B25 exhibiting the lowest IC(50) value of 2.8 ± 1.3 μM. None of the tested ester analogs of final benzofuran derivatives displayed TMEM16A/CaCCs inhibition.

Activation of Ca2+-activated Cl- channels by store-operated Ca2+ entry in arterial smooth muscle cells does not require reverse-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchange

The main purpose of this study was to characterize the stimulation of Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) (Cl(Ca)) by store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) channels in rabbit pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and determine if this process requires reverse-mode Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCX). In whole-cell voltage clamped PASMCs incubated with 1 μmol/L nifedipine (Nif) to inhibit Ca(2+) channels, 30 μmol/L cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a SERCA pump inhibitor, activated a nonselective cation conductance permeable to Na(+) (I(SOC)) during an initial 1-3 s step, ranging from-120 to +60 mV, and Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current (I(Cl(Ca))) during a second step to +90 mV that increased with the level of the preceding hyperpolarizing step. Niflumic acid (100 μmol/L), a Cl(Ca) channel blocker, abolished I(Cl(Ca)) but had no effect on I(SOC), whereas the I(SOC) blocker SKF-96365 (50 μmol/L) suppressed both currents. Dual patch clamp and Fluo-4 fluorescence measurements revealed the appearance of CPA-induced Ca(2+) transients of increasing magnitude with increasing hyperpolarizing steps, which correlated with I(Cl(Ca)) amplitude. The absence of Ca(2+) transients at positive potentials following a hyperpolarizing step combined with the observation that SOCE-stimulated I(Cl(Ca)) was unaffected by the NCX blocker KB-R7943 (1 μmol/L) suggest that the SOCE/Cl(Ca) interaction does not require reverse-mode NCX in our conditions.

Biophysically based modeling of the interstitial cells of cajal: current status and future perspectives

Gastrointestinal motility research is progressing rapidly, leading to significant advances in the last 15 years in understanding the cellular mechanisms underlying motility, following the discovery of the central role played by the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). As experimental knowledge of ICC physiology has expanded, biophysically based modeling has become a valuable tool for integrating experimental data, for testing hypotheses on ICC pacemaker mechanisms, and for applications in in silico studies including in multiscale models. This review is focused on the cellular electrophysiology of ICC. Recent evidence from both experimental and modeling domains have called aspects of the existing pacemaker theories into question. Therefore, current experimental knowledge of ICC pacemaker mechanisms is examined in depth, and current theories of ICC pacemaking are evaluated and further developed. Existing biophysically based ICC models and their physiological foundations are then critiqued in light of the recent advances in experimental knowledge, and opportunities to improve these models are identified. The review concludes by examining several potential clinical applications of biophysically based ICC modeling from the subcellular through to the organ level, including ion channelopathies and ICC network degradation.

Characterizing behavior of corpus cavernosum in chloride-free condition

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the role of chloride currents in erectile function through characterizing the behavior of corpus cavernosum (CC) in chloride-free (Cf) medium, which has not been evaluated before.

METHODS

Isolated rabbit CC strips were suspended in thermo-regulated organ baths containing oxygenated Tyrode for isometric tension recording. Cf Tyrode was prepared by substituting sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and potassium chloride (KCl) with equivalent molar concentrations of sodium acetate, calcium acetate, and potassium acetate salts. Resting cavernosal tone and contractions by noradrenaline, histamine, and KCl were assessed in Cf Tyrode with or without chloride channel blockers, niflumic acid (NFA), and anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (A9C).

RESULTS

Withdrawal of extracellular chloride caused myogenic contractions in the unstimulated CC strips (n = 18). In addition, peak contractions by noradrenaline (n = 14) and histamine (n = 13) were augmented in Cf buffer by 47.2 ± 5.9% and 85.4 ± 13.2%, respectively (P <.05), whereas KCl contractions were not significantly altered (17.6 ± 4.6%; n = 7). Interestingly, Cf buffer exerted opposing effects, potentiation and reduction, respectively, on the plateau phase of contractions mediated by noradrenaline and histamine. The stimulatory effect of Cf buffer on the intrinsic myogenic tone was diminished by NFA (30 μM), and A9C (300 μM-1 mM). NFA (30-100 μM), however, specifically reduced the plateau phase without significantly modifying the peak contraction of noradrenaline in Cf buffer.

CONCLUSIONS

These results reiterate the importance of chloride currents as a mechanism underlying the maintenance of penile cavernosal tone. Thus, chloride channel could be an effective alternative target to regulate penile erection.

Inhibition of the calcium-activated chloride current in cardiac ventricular myocytes by N-(p-amylcinnamoyl)anthranilic acid (ACA)

N-(p-amylcinnamoyl)anthranilic acid (ACA), a phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) inhibitor, is structurally-related to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) of the fenamate group and may also modulate various ion channels. We used the whole-cell, patch-clamp technique at room temperature to investigate the effects of ACA on the Ca(2+)-activated chloride current (I(Cl(Ca))) and other chloride currents in isolated pig cardiac ventricular myocytes. ACA reversibly inhibited I(Cl(Ca)) in a concentration-dependent manner (IC(50)=4.2 μM, n(Hill)=1.1), without affecting the L-type Ca(2+) current. Unlike ACA, the non-selective PLA(2) inhibitor bromophenacyl bromide (BPB; 50 μM) had no effect on I(Cl(Ca)). In addition, the analgesic NSAID structurally-related to ACA, diclofenac (50 μM) also had no effect on I(Cl(Ca)), whereas the current in the same cells could be suppressed by chloride channel blockers flufenamic acid (FFA; 100 μM) or 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS;100 μM). Besides I(Cl(Ca)), ACA (50 μM) also suppressed the cAMP-activated chloride current, but to a lesser extent. It is proposed that the inhibitory effects of ACA on I(Cl(Ca)) are PLA(2)-independent and that the drug may serve as a useful tool in understanding the nature and function of cardiac anion channels.

Expression profile and protein translation of TMEM16A in murine smooth muscle

Recently, overexpression of the genes TMEM16A and TMEM16B has been shown to produce currents qualitatively similar to native Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents (I(ClCa)) in vascular smooth muscle. However, there is no information about this new gene family in vascular smooth muscle, where Cl(-) channels are a major depolarizing mechanism. Qualitatively similar Cl(-) currents were evoked by a pipette solution containing 500 nM Ca(2+) in smooth muscle cells isolated from BALB/c mouse portal vein, thoracic aorta, and carotid artery. Quantitative PCR using SYBR Green chemistry and primers specific for transmembrane protein (TMEM) 16A or the closely related TMEM16B showed TMEM16A expression as follows: portal vein > thoracic aorta > carotid artery > brain. In addition, several alternatively spliced variant transcripts of TMEM16A were detected. In contrast, TMEM16B expression was very low in smooth muscle. Western blot analysis with different antibodies directed against TMEM16A revealed a number of products with a consistent band at ∼120 kDa, except portal vein, where an 80-kDa band predominated. TMEM16A protein was identified in the smooth muscle layers of 4-μm-thick slices of portal vein, thoracic aorta, and carotid artery. In isolated myocytes, fluorescence specific to a TMEM16A antibody was detected diffusely throughout the cytoplasm, as well as near the membrane. The same antibody used in Western blot analysis of lysates from vascular tissues also recognized an ∼147-kDa mouse TMEM16A-green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion protein expressed in HEK 293 cells, which correlated to a similar band detected by a GFP antibody. Patch-clamp experiments revealed that I(ClCa) generated by transfection of TMEM16A-GFP in HEK 293 cells displayed remarkable similarities to I(ClCa) recorded in vascular myocytes, including slow kinetics, steep outward rectification, and a response similar to the pharmacological agent niflumic acid. This study shows that TMEM16A expression is robust in murine vascular smooth muscle cells, consolidating the view that this gene is a viable candidate for the native Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel in this cell type.

Cholesterol depletion alters amplitude and pharmacology of vascular calcium-activated chloride channels

AIMS

Calcium-activated chloride channels (CACCs) share common pharmacological properties with Kcnma1-encoded large conductance K(+) channels (BK(Ca) or K(Ca)1.1) and it has been suggested that they may co-exist in a macromolecular complex. As K(Ca)1.1 channels are known to localize to cholesterol and caveolin-rich lipid rafts (caveolae), the present study investigated whether Ca(2+)-sensitive Cl(-) currents in vascular myocytes were affected by the cholesterol depleting agent methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (M-betaCD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Calcium-activated chloride and potassium currents were recorded from single murine portal vein myocytes in whole cell voltage clamp. Western blot was undertaken following sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation using protein lysates from whole portal veins. Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents were augmented by 3 mg mL(-1) M-betaCD with a rapid time course (t(0.5) = 1.8 min). M-betaCD had no effect on the bi-modal response to niflumic acid or anthracene-9-carboxylate but completely removed the inhibitory effects of the K(Ca)1.1 blockers, paxilline and tamoxifen, as well as the stimulatory effect of the K(Ca)1.1 activator NS1619. Discontinuous sucrose density gradients followed by western blot analysis revealed that the position of lipid raft markers caveolin and flotillin-2 was altered by 15 min application of 3 mg mL(-1) M-betaCD. The position of K(Ca)1.1 and the newly identified candidate for CACCs, TMEM16A, was also affected by M-betaCD.

CONCLUSION

These data reveal that CACC properties are influenced by lipid raft integrity.

Complex interactions of NO/cGMP/PKG systems on Ca2+ signaling in afferent arteriolar vascular smooth muscle

Little is known about the effects of nitric oxide (NO) and the cyclic GMP (cGMP)/protein kinase G (PKG) system on Ca(2+) signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) of resistance vessels in general and afferent arterioles in particular. We tested the hypotheses that cGMP-, Ca(2+)-dependent big potassium channels (BK(Ca(2+))) buffer the Ca(2+) response to depolarization by high extracellular KCl and that NO inhibits adenosine diphosphoribose (ADPR) cyclase, thereby reducing the Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release. We isolated rat afferent arterioles, utilizing the magnetized microsphere method, and measured cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) with fura-2, a preparation in which endothelial cells do not participate in [Ca(2+)](i) responses. KCl (50 mM)-induced depolarization causes an immediate increase in [Ca(2+)](i) of 151 nM. The blockers N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (of nitric oxide synthase), 1,2,4-oxodiazolo-[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, of guanylyl cyclase), KT-5823 (of PKG activation), and iberiotoxin (IBX, of BK(Ca(2+)) activity) do not alter the [Ca(2+)](i) response to KCl, suggesting no discernible endogenous NO production under basal conditions. The NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) reduces the [Ca(2+)](i) response to 77 nM; IBX restores the response to control values. These data show that activation of BK(Ca(2+)) in the presence of NO/cGMP provides a brake on KCl-induced [Ca(2+)](i) responses. Experiments with the inhibitor of cyclic ADPR 8-bromo-cyclic ADPR (8-Br-cADPR) and SNP + downstream inhibitors of PKG and BK(Ca(2+)) suggest that NO inhibits ADPR cyclase in intact arterioles. When we pretreat afferent arterioles with 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cGMP; 10 muM), the response to KCl is 143 nM. However, in the presence of both IBX and 8-Br-cGMP, we observe a surprising doubling of the [Ca(2+)](i) response to KCl. In summary, we present evidence for effects of the NO/cGMP/PKG system to reduce [Ca(2+)](i), via activation of BK(Ca(2+)) and possibly by inhibition of ADPR cyclase, and to increase [Ca(2+)](i), by a mechanism(s) yet to be defined.

Phosphorylation alters the pharmacology of Ca(2+)-activated Cl channels in rabbit pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents (I(Cl(Ca))) in arterial smooth muscle cells are inhibited by phosphorylation. The Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel (Cl(Ca)) blocker niflumic acid (NFA) produces a paradoxical dual effect on I(Cl(Ca)), causing stimulation or inhibition at potentials below or above 0 mV respectively. We tested whether the effects of NFA on I(Cl(Ca)) were modulated by phosphorylation.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

I(Cl(Ca)) was elicited with 500 nM free internal Ca(2+) in rabbit pulmonary artery myocytes. The state of global phosphorylation was altered by cell dialysis with either 5 mM ATP or 0 mM ATP with or without an inhibitor of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II, KN-93 (10 microM).

KEY RESULTS

Dephosphorylation enhanced the ability of 100 microM NFA to inhibit I(Cl(Ca)). This effect was attributed to a large negative shift in the voltage-dependence of block, which was converted to stimulation at potentials <-50 mV, approximately 70 mV more negative than cells dialysed with 5 mM ATP. NFA dose-dependently blocked I(Cl(Ca)) in the range of 0.1-250 microM in cells dialysed with 0 mM ATP and KN-93, which contrasted with the stimulation induced by 0.1 microM, which converted to block at concentrations >1 microM when cells were dialysed with 5 mM ATP.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our data indicate that the presumed state of phosphorylation of the pore-forming or regulatory subunit of Cl(Ca) channels influenced the interaction of NFA in a manner that obstructs interaction of the drug with an inhibitory binding site.

Inhibition of vascular calcium-gated chloride currents by blockers of KCa1.1, but not by modulators of KCa2.1 or KCa2.3 channels

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Recent pharmacological studies have proposed there is a high degree of similarity between calcium-activated Cl(-) channels (CaCCs) and large conductance, calcium-gated K(+) channels (K(Ca)1.1). The goal of the present study was to ascertain whether blockers of K(Ca)1.1 inhibited calcium-activated Cl(-) currents (I(ClCa)) and if the pharmacological overlap between K(Ca)1.1 and CaCCs extends to intermediate and small conductance, calcium-activated K(+) channels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES

Whole-cell Cl(-) and K(+) currents were recorded from murine portal vein myocytes using the whole-cell variant of the patch clamp technique. CaCC currents were evoked by pipette solutions containing 500 nM free [Ca(2+)].

KEY RESULTS

The selective K(Ca)1.1 blocker paxilline (1 microM) inhibited I(ClCa) by approximately 90%, whereas penitrem A (1 microM) and iberiotoxin (100 and 300 nM) reduced the amplitude of I(ClCa) by approximately 20%, as well as slowing channel deactivation. Paxilline also abolished the stimulatory effect of niflumic acid on the CaCC. In contrast, an antibody against the Ca(2+)-binding domain of murine K(Ca)1.1 had no effect on I(ClCa) while inhibiting spontaneous K(Ca)1.1 currents. Structurally different modulators of small and intermediate conductance calcium-activated K(+) channels (K(Ca)2.1 and K(Ca)2.3), namely 1-EBIO, (100 microM); NS309, (1 microM); TRAM-34, (10 microM); UCL 1684, (1 microM) had no effect on I(ClCa).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These data show that the selective K(Ca)1.1 blockers also reduce I(ClCa) considerably. However, the pharmacological overlap that exists between CaCCs and K(Ca)1.1 does not extend to the calcium-binding domain or to other calcium-gated K(+) channels.

Human ClCa1 modulates anionic conduction of calcium-dependent chloride currents

Proteins of the CLCA gene family including the human ClCa1 (hClCa1) have been suggested to constitute a new family of chloride channels mediating Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- currents. The present study examines the relationship between the hClCa1 protein and Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- currents using heterologous expression of hClCa1 in HEK293 and NCIH522 cell lines and whole cell recordings. By contrast to previous reports claiming the absence of Cl- currents in HEK293 cells, we find that HEK293 and NCIH522 cell lines express constitutive Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- currents and show that hClCa1 increases the amplitude of Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- currents in those cells. We further show that hClCa1 does not modify the permeability sequence but increases the Cl- conductance while decreasing the G(SCN-)/G(Cl-) conductance ratio from approximately 2-3 to approximately 1. We use an Eyring rate theory (two barriers, one site channel) model and show that the effect of hClCa1 on the anionic channel can be simulated by its action on lowering the first and the second energy barriers. We conclude that hClCa1 does not form Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- channels per se or enhance the trafficking/insertion of constitutive channels in the HEK293 and NCIH522 expression systems. Rather, hClCa1 elevates the single channel conductance of endogenous Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- channels by lowering the energy barriers for ion translocation through the pore.

Expression, localization, and functional properties of Bestrophin 3 channel isolated from mouse heart

Bestrophins are a novel family of proteins that encode calcium-activated chloride channels. In this study we establish that Bestrophin transcripts are expressed in the mouse and human heart. Native mBest3 protein expression and localization in heart was demonstrated by using a specific polyclonal mBest3 antibody. Immunostaining of isolated cardiac myocytes indicates that mBest3 is present at the membrane. Using the patch-clamp technique, we characterized the biophysical and pharmacological properties of mBest3 cloned from heart. Whole cell chloride currents were evoked in both HEK293 and COS-7 cells expressing mBest3 by elevation of intracellular calcium. mBest3 currents displayed a K(D) for Ca(2+) of approximately 175 nM. The calcium-activated chloride current was found to be time and voltage independent and displayed slight outward rectification. The anion permeability sequence of the channel was SCN(-)>I(-)>Cl(-), and the current was inhibited by niflumic acid and DIDS in the micromolar range. In addition, we generated a site-specific mutation (F80L) in the putative pore region of mBest3 that significantly altered the ion conduction and pharmacology of this channel. Our functional and mutational studies examining the biophysical properties of mBest3 indicate that it functions as a pore-forming chloride channel that is activated by physiological levels of calcium. This study reports novel findings regarding the molecular expression, tissue localization, and functional properties of mBest3 cloned from heart.

Angiotensin II-stimulated Ca2+ entry mechanisms in afferent arterioles: role of transient receptor potential canonical channels and reverse Na+/Ca2+ exchange

In afferent arterioles, the signaling events that lead to an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and initiation of vascular contraction are increasingly being delineated. We have recently studied angiotensin II (ANG II)-mediated effects on sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) mobilization of Ca2+ and the role of superoxide and cyclic adenosine diphosphoribose in these processes. In the current study we investigated the participation of transient receptor potential canonical channels (TRPC) and a Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) in Ca2+ entry mechanisms. Afferent arterioles, isolated with the magnetized polystyrene bead method, were loaded with fura-2 to measure [Ca2+]i ratiometrically. We observed that the Ca2+-dependent chloride channel blocker niflumic acid (10 and 50 μ M) affects neither the peak nor plateau [Ca2+]i response to ANG II. Arterioles were pretreated with ryanodine (100 μM) and TMB-8 to block SR mobilization via the ryanodine receptor and inositol trisphosphate receptor, respectively. The peak [Ca2+]i response to ANG II was reduced by 40%. Addition of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borane to block TRPC-mediated Ca2+ entry inhibited the peak [Ca2+]i ANG II response by 80% and the plateau by 74%. Flufenamic acid (FFA; 50 μM), which stimulates TRPC6, caused a sustained increase of [Ca2+]i of 146 nM. This response was unaffected by diltiazem or nifedipine. KB-R7943 (at the low concentration of 10 μM) inhibits reverse (but not forward) mode NCX. KB-R7943 decreased the peak [Ca2+]i response to ANG II by 48% and to FFA by 38%. We conclude that TRPC6 and reverse-mode NCX may be important Ca2+ entry pathways in afferent arterioles.

Stimulation of Ca2+-gated Cl- currents by the calcium-dependent K+ channel modulators NS1619 [1,3-dihydro-1-[2-hydroxy-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-benzimidazol-2-one] and isopimaric acid

Because chloride (Cl(-)) channel blockers such as niflumic acid enhance large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated potassium channels (BK(Ca)), the aim of this study was to determine whether there is a reciprocal modification of Ca(2+)-activated chloride Cl(-) currents (I(ClCa)) by two selective activators of BK(Ca). Single smooth muscle cells were isolated by enzymatic digestion from murine portal vein and rabbit pulmonary artery. The BK(Ca) activators NS1619 [1,3-dihydro-1-[2-hydroxy-5-(trifluoromethyl-)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-benzimidazol-2-one] and isopimaric acid (IpA) augmented macroscopic I(ClCa) elicited by pipette solutions containing [Ca(2+)](i) > 100 nM without any alteration in current kinetics. Enhanced currents recorded in the presence of NS1619 or IpA reversed at the theoretical Cl(-) equilibrium potential, which was shifted by approximately -40 mV upon replacement of the external anion with the more permeable thiocyanate anion. NS1619 increased the sensitivity of calcium-activated chloride channel (Cl(Ca)) to Ca(2+) (approximately 100 nM at +60 mV) and induced a leftward shift in their voltage dependence (approximately 80 mV with 1 micro Ca(2+)). Single-channel experiments revealed that NS1619 increased the number of open channels times the open probability of small-conductance (1.8-3.1 pS) Cl(Ca) without any alteration in their unitary amplitude or number of observable unitary levels of activity. These data, in addition to the established stimulatory effects of niflumic acid on BK(Ca), show that there is similarity in the pharmacology of calcium-activated chloride and potassium channels. Although nonspecific interactions are possible, one alternative hypothesis is that the channel underlying vascular I(ClCa) shares some structural similarity to the BK(Ca) or that the latter K(+) channel physically interacts with Cl(Ca).

Mechanism of the inhibition of Ca2+-activated Cl- currents by phosphorylation in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

The aim of the present study was to provide a mechanistic insight into how phosphatase activity influences calcium-activated chloride channels in rabbit pulmonary artery myocytes. Calcium-dependent Cl⁻ currents (I_ClCa) were evoked by pipette solutions containing concentrations between 20 and 1000 nM Ca²⁺ and the calcium and voltage dependence was determined. Under control conditions with pipette solutions containing ATP and 500 nM Ca²⁺, I_ClCa was evoked immediately upon membrane rupture but then exhibited marked rundown to ∼20% of initial values. In contrast, when phosphorylation was prohibited by using pipette solutions containing adenosine 5′-(β,γ-imido)-triphosphate (AMP-PNP) or with ATP omitted, the rundown was severely impaired, and after 20 min dialysis, I_ClCa was ∼100% of initial levels. I_ClCa recorded with AMP-PNP–containing pipette solutions were significantly larger than control currents and had faster kinetics at positive potentials and slower deactivation kinetics at negative potentials. The marked increase in I_ClCa was due to a negative shift in the voltage dependence of activation and not due to an increase in the apparent binding affinity for Ca²⁺. Mathematical simulations were carried out based on gating schemes involving voltage-independent binding of three Ca²⁺, each binding step resulting in channel opening at fixed calcium but progressively greater “on” rates, and voltage-dependent closing steps (“off” rates). Our model reproduced well the Ca²⁺ and voltage dependence of I_ClCa as well as its kinetic properties. The impact of global phosphorylation could be well mimicked by alterations in the magnitude, voltage dependence, and state of the gating variable of the channel closure rates. These data reveal that the phosphorylation status of the Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channel complex influences current generation dramatically through one or more critical voltage-dependent steps.

Regulation of calcium-activated chloride channels in smooth muscle cells: a complex picture is emerging

Calcium-activated chloride channels (ClCa) are ligand-gated anion channels as they have been shown to be activated by a rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentration in various cell types including cardiac, skeletal and vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial and epithelial cells, as well as neurons. Because ClCa channels are normally closed at resting, free intracellular Ca2+ concentration (approximately 100 nmol/L) in most cell types, they have generally been considered excitatory in nature, providing a triggering mechanism during signal transduction for membrane excitability, osmotic balance, transepithelial chloride movements, or fluid secretion. Unfortunately, the genes responsible for encoding this class of ion channels is still unknown. This review centers primarily on recent findings on the properties of these channels in smooth muscle cells. The first section discusses the functional significance and biophysical and pharmacological properties of ClCa channels in smooth muscle cells, and ends with a description of 2 candidate gene families (i.e., CLCA and Bestrophin) that are postulated to encode for these channels in various cell types. The second section provides a summary of recent findings demonstrating the regulation of native ClCa channels in vascular smooth muscle cells by calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and calcineurin and how their fine tuning by these enzymes may influence vascular tone.

Calcium-activated chloride channels

Calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs) play important roles in cellular physiology, including epithelial secretion of electrolytes and water, sensory transduction, regulation of neuronal and cardiac excitability, and regulation of vascular tone. This review discusses the physiological roles of these channels, their mechanisms of regulation and activation, and the mechanisms of anion selectivity and conduction. Despite the fact that CaCCs are so broadly expressed in cells and play such important functions, understanding these channels has been limited by the absence of specific blockers and the fact that the molecular identities of CaCCs remains in question. Recent status of the pharmacology and molecular identification of CaCCs is evaluated.

Ca(2+)- and volume-sensitive chloride currents are differentially regulated by agonists and store-operated Ca2+ entry

Using patch-clamp and calcium imaging techniques, we characterized the effects of ATP and histamine on human keratinocytes. In the HaCaT cell line, both receptor agonists induced a transient elevation of [Ca²⁺]_i in a Ca²⁺-free medium followed by a secondary [Ca²⁺]_i rise upon Ca²⁺ readmission due to store-operated calcium entry (SOCE). In voltage-clamped cells, agonists activated two kinetically distinct currents, which showed differing voltage dependences and were identified as Ca²⁺-activated (I_Cl(Ca)) and volume-regulated (I_{Cl, swell}) chloride currents. NPPB and DIDS more efficiently inhibited I_Cl(Ca) and I_{Cl, swell}, respectively. Cell swelling caused by hypotonic solution invariably activated I_{Cl, swell} while regulatory volume decrease occurred in intact cells, as was found in flow cytometry experiments. The PLC inhibitor U-73122 blocked both agonist- and cell swelling–induced I_{Cl, swell}, while its inactive analogue U-73343 had no effect. I_Cl(Ca) could be activated by cytoplasmic calcium increase due to thapsigargin (TG)-induced SOCE as well as by buffering [Ca²⁺]_i in the pipette solution at 500 nM. In contrast, I_{Cl, swell} could be directly activated by 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG), a cell-permeable DAG analogue, but neither by InsP₃ infusion nor by the cytoplasmic calcium increase. PKC also had no role in its regulation. Agonists, OAG, and cell swelling induced I_{Cl, swell} in a nonadditive manner, suggesting their convergence on a common pathway. I_{Cl, swell} and I_Cl(Ca) showed only a limited overlap (i.e., simultaneous activation), although various maneuvers were able to induce these currents sequentially in the same cell. TG-induced SOCE strongly potentiated I_Cl(Ca), but abolished I_{Cl, swell}, thereby providing a clue for this paradox. Thus, we have established for the first time using a keratinocyte model that I_{Cl, swell} can be physiologically activated under isotonic conditions by receptors coupled to the phosphoinositide pathway. These results also suggest a novel function for SOCE, which can operate as a “selection” switch between closely localized channels.

Activation of chloride currents in murine portal vein smooth muscle cells by membrane depolarization involves intracellular calcium release

The present study describes the first characterization of Ca2+-activated Cl− currents ( IClCa) in single smooth muscle cells from a murine vascular preparation (portal veins). IClCa was recorded using the perforated patch version of the whole cell voltage-clamp technique and was evoked using membrane depolarization. Generation of IClCa relied on Ca2+ entry through dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channels because IClCa was abolished by 1 μM nicardipine and enhanced by raising external Ca2+ concentration or by application of BAY K 8644. IClCa was characterized by the sensitivity to Cl− channel blockers and the effect of altering the external anion on reversal potential. Activation of IClCa after membrane depolarization was dependent on Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. Thus the amplitude of IClCa was diminished by the SR-ATPase inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), and the ryanodine receptor blocker tetracaine. The degree of inhibition produced by the application of 2-APB and tetracaine together was significantly greater than the effect of each agent applied alone. In current-clamp mode, injection of depolarizing current elicited a biphasic action potential, with the later depolarization being sensitive to niflumic acid (NFA; 10 μM). In isometric tension recordings, NFA inhibited spontaneous contractions. These data support a role for this conductance in portal vein excitability.

Effects of inhibitors of nonselective cation channels on the acetylcholine-induced depolarization of circular smooth muscle from the guinea-pig stomach antrum

In circular smooth muscle bundles isolated from the guinea-pig stomach antrum, the effects of quinidine, Ni2+, flufenamic acid, niflumic acid, La3+, SKF-96365 and 4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (DIDS) on acetylcholine (ACh)-induced depolarization were investigated. Recording membrane potentials from smooth muscle cells with intracellular microelectrodes revealed that ACh (1 microM) depolarized the membrane by 5-8 mV and increased the amplitude and frequency of slow potentials. These effects were inhibited by atropine. Quinidine (10 microM) increased the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization, with no alteration to the properties of slow potentials. Ni2+ (50 microM) transiently (5-10 min) depolarized the membrane by about 5 mV, with an associated increase in frequency and amplitude of slow potentials. In the stabilized condition with Ni2+, the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization remained unchanged. Flufenamic acid (10 microM) inhibited the generation of slow potentials, with no change in either the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization or of the amplitude and frequency of slow potentials generated during ACh stimulation. A high concentration of flufenamic acid (100 microM) depolarized the membrane and increased the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization. Niflumic acid (10 microM) hyperpolarized the membrane and increased the amplitude and frequency of slow potentials and also the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization. DIDS (100 microM) hyperpolarized the membrane and inhibited the amplitude and frequency of slow potentials, with no alteration to the amplitude of ACh-induced depolarization. SKF-96365 (3-50 microM) depolarized the membrane in a concentration-dependent manner, but did not change the level of ACh-induced depolarization. La3+ (50 microM) did not alter the properties of the slow potentials or the ACh-induced responses. These results provide evidence that ACh-induced depolarization is not inhibited by chemicals known to inhibit non-selective cation channels. We suggest that muscarinic receptor-mediated signal transduction may be different in smooth muscle and interstitial cells.

Dynamics of Ca2+-dependent Cl- channel modulation by niflumic acid in rabbit coronary arterial myocytes

Calcium-activated chloride channels (Cl(Ca)) are crucial regulators of vascular tone by promoting a depolarizing influence on the resting membrane potential of vascular smooth muscle cells. Niflumic acid (NFA), a potent blocker of Cl(Ca) in vascular myocytes, was shown recently to cause inhibition and paradoxical stimulation of sustained calcium-activated chloride currents [I(Cl(Ca))] in rabbit pulmonary artery myocytes. The aims of the present study were to investigate whether NFA produced a similar dual effect in coronary artery smooth muscle cells and to determine the concentration-dependence and dynamics of such a phenomenon. Sustained I(Cl(Ca)) evoked by intracellular Ca(2+) clamped at 500 nM were dose-dependently inhibited by NFA (IC(50) = 159 microM) and transiently augmented in a concentration-independent manner (10 microM to 1 mM) approximately 2-fold after NFA removal. However, the time to peak and duration of NFA-enhanced I(Cl(Ca)) increased in a concentration-dependent fashion. Moreover, the rate of recovery was reduced by membrane depolarization, suggesting the involvement of a voltage-dependent step in the interaction of NFA, leading to stimulation of I(Cl(Ca)). Computer simulations derived from a kinetic model involving low (K(i) = 1.25 mM) and high (K(i) < 30 microM) affinity sites could reproduce the properties of the NFA-modulated I(Cl(Ca)) fairly well.

Single cGMP-activated Ca(+)-dependent Cl(-) channels in rat mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells

The present study describes the single channel properties of a novel cGMP-activated Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) channel in rat mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells. Single channel currents were recorded in cell-attached patches in the presence of 8 Br cGMP in response to the addition of caffeine or noradrenaline and in both outside-out and inside-out patches when the internal patch surface was bathed in cGMP and Ca(2+). The channels were permeable to Cl(-) ions with an anion permeability sequence of SCN(-) (1.7) > Cl(-) (1.0) > I(-) (0.6). Single channel mean open probability (NP(o)) was independent of voltage and the channels displayed three conductance levels of 15, 35 and 55 pS. cGMP was required for channel activation and the single channel NP(o) increased sharply with raised [Ca(2+)](i), maximal activation occurring at a [Ca(2+)](i) of about 100 nM. The relationship between NP(o) and cGMP concentration was voltage independent and could be fitted by the Hill equation giving a K(d) of about 3 microM and a Hill coefficient (n(H)) of 3. cGMP- and Ca(2+)-dependent channel currents were inhibited by 10 microM ZnCl(2) but niflumic acid, an inhibitor of Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels, had no effect. Inhibition of cGMP-dependent protein kinase activity by the cGMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor KT5823 or replacement of ATP by AMP-PNP reduced NP(o), while activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase by guanosine 3', 5'-cyclic monophosphate, beta-phenyl-1, N(2)-etheno-8-bromo-sodium salt (8 Br PET cGMP) produced a significant increase in single channel NP(o). It is likely that these single channel currents underlie the noradrenaline-activated inward current important for vasomotion in these resistance arteries.

Modulation of spontaneous Ca2+-activated Cl- currents in the rabbit corpus cavernosum by the nitric oxide-cGMP pathway

The whole-cell perforated patch clamp technique was used to study membrane currents in isolated rabbit corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. Depolarization from -80 mV to the range -40 to -10 mV evoked a nifedipine-sensitive Ca(2+) current that was followed by a slower inward current that activated over several hundred milliseconds. The slow current reversed near the Cl(-) equilibrium potential (E(Cl)) and was reduced by anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (A9C; 1 mm) and niflumic acid (100 microm), suggesting that it was a Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current. When held constantly at -60 mV, over 70% of cells fired spontaneous transient inward currents (STICs), the amplitudes of which were reduced by A9C and niflumic acid. STICs reversed near E(Cl) in a symmetrical Cl(-) gradient and when [Cl(-)](o) was substituted with glutamate or I(-), the reversal potential shifted to more positive or more negative values, respectively, confirming that STICs were mediated by Cl(-) channels. STICS were also blocked by cyclopiazonic acid, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) and 2-nitro-4-carboxyl-N,N-diphenylcarbamate (NCDC), suggesting that they depended on IP(3)-mediated Ca(2+)-release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Modulation by the NO-cGMP pathway was investigated by applying nitrosocysteine, 3-(5-hydroxymethyl-2-furyl)-1-benzyl indazole (YC-1), and 8-bromo cGMP, all three of which abolished STIC activity. YC-1 also reduced noradrenaline-evoked inward currents, but had no effect on similar currents evoked by caffeine, suggesting that cGMP selectively inhibited IP(3)-mediated Ca(2+) release. We propose that Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents underlie detumescent tone in the corpus cavernosum, and that modulation of this mechanism by the NO-cGMP pathway is important during penile erection.

A cyclic GMP-dependent calcium-activated chloride current in smooth-muscle cells from rat mesenteric resistance arteries

We have previously demonstrated the presence of a cyclic GMP (cGMP)-dependent calcium-activated inward current in vascular smooth-muscle cells, and suggested this to be of importance in synchronizing smooth-muscle contraction. Here we demonstrate the characteristics of this current. Using conventional patch-clamp technique, whole-cell currents were evoked in freshly isolated smooth-muscle cells from rat mesenteric resistance arteries by elevation of intracellular calcium with either 10 mM caffeine, 1 microM BAY K8644, 0.4 microM ionomycin, or by high calcium concentration (900 nM) in the pipette solution. The current was found to be a calcium-activated chloride current with an absolute requirement for cyclic GMP (EC50 6.4 microM). The current could be activated by the constitutively active subunit of PKG. Current activation was blocked by the protein kinase G antagonist Rp-8-Br-PET-cGMP or with a peptide inhibitor of PKG, or with the nonhydrolysable ATP analogue AMP-PNP. Under biionic conditions, the anion permeability sequence of the channel was SCN- > Br- > I- > Cl- > acetate > F- >> aspartate, but the conductance sequence was I- > Br- > Cl- > acetate > F- > aspartate = SCN-. The current had no voltage or time dependence. It was inhibited by nickel and zinc ions in the micromolar range, but was unaffected by cobalt and had a low sensitivity to inhibition by the chloride channel blockers niflumic acid, DIDS, and IAA-94. The properties of this current in mesenteric artery smooth-muscle cells differed from those of the calcium-activated chloride current in pulmonary myocytes, which was cGMP-independent, exhibited a high sensitivity to inhibition by niflumic acid, was unaffected by zinc ions, and showed outward current rectification as has previously been reported for this current. Under conditions of high calcium in the patch-pipette solution, a current similar to the latter could be identified also in the mesenteric artery smooth-muscle cells. We conclude that smooth-muscle cells from rat mesenteric resistance arteries have a novel cGMP-dependent calcium-activated chloride current, which is activated by intracellular calcium release and which has characteristics distinct from other calcium-activated chloride currents.

Role of sarcoplasmic reticulum in control of membrane potential and nitrergic response in opossum lower esophageal sphincter

1. We previously demonstrated that a balance of Ca2+-activated Cl- current (ICl(Ca)) and K+ current activity sets the resting membrane potential of opossum lower esophageal sphincter (LES) circular smooth muscle at approximately -41 mV, which leads to continuous spike-like action potentials and the generation of basal tone. Ionic mechanisms underlying this basal ICl(Ca) activity and its nitrergic regulation remain unclear. Recent studies suggest that spontaneous Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) play important roles. The current study investigated this possibility. Conventional intracellular recordings were performed on circular smooth muscle of opossum LES. Nerve responses were evoked by electrical square wave pulses of 0.5 ms duration at 20 Hz. 2. In the presence of nifedipine (1 microm), substance P (1 microm), atropine (3 microm) and guanethidine (3 microm), intracellular recordings demonstrated a resting membrane potential (MP) of -38.1+/-0.7 mV (n=25) with spontaneous membrane potential fluctuations (MPfs) of 1-3 mV. Four pulses of nerve stimulation induced slow inhibitory junction potentials (sIJPs) with an amplitude of 6.1+/-0.3 mV and a half-amplitude duration of 1926+/-147 ms (n=25). 3. 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), a specific guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, abolished sIJPs, but had no effects on MPfs. Caffeine, a ryanodine receptor agonist, hyperpolarized MP and abolished sIJPs and MPfs. Ryanodine (20 microm) inhibited the sIJP and induced biphasic effects on MP, an initial small hyperpolarization followed by a large depolarization. sIJPs and MPfs were also inhibited by cyclopiazonic acid, an SR Ca2+ ATPase inhibitor. Specific ICl(Ca) and MLCK inhibitors hyperpolarized the MP and inhibited MPfs and sIJPs. 4. These data suggest that (1). spontaneous release of Ca2+ from the SR activates ICl(Ca), which in turn contributes to resting membrane potential; (2). MLCK is involved in activation of ICl(Ca); (3). inhibition of ICl(Ca) is likely to underlie sIJPs induced by nitrergic innervation.

Ca2+-activated Cl- channel currents in rat ventral prostate epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

In many epithelial tissues, the Cl(-) efflux via Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels (Cl(Ca)) play a key role for the fluid secretion. To elucidate the mechanism of prostatic fluid secretion, the properties of whole-cell chloride conductance were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat prostate secretory epithelial cells (RPSECs) were isolated by collagenase treatment, and were used for the whole-cell voltage clamp. Both extra- and intracellular monovalent cations were replaced by N-methyl-D-glucamate to record the Cl(-) current selectively.

RESULTS

A bath application of Ca(2+)-ionophore, ionomycin (0.2 micro M), increased the membrane conductance with outwardly rectifying voltage-dependence. On step-like depolarization from -60 to +80 mV (500 msec), the ionomycin-induced current showed slowly activating kinetics, a known property of Cl(Ca) current (I(Cl(Ca))) of other tissues. The relative permeability of Cl(Ca) to various anions was calculated from the reversal potentials measured under a total replacement of extracellular Cl(-) with various anions, and the relative order of permeability was SCN(-)>I(-)>Br(-)>Cl(-)>>gluconate. The amplitude of I(Cl(Ca)) was decreased by various anion channel blockers: niflumic acid (100 micro M), DPC (100 micro M), DIDS (1 mM), and NPPB (200 micro M).

CONCLUSIONS

RPSECs have Cl(Ca) that may provide Cl(-) efflux pathways for the exocrine secretions of the prostate.

Ca2+-activated Cl- current in cultured myenteric neurons from murine proximal colon

Whole cell patch-clamp recordings were made from cultured myenteric neurons taken from murine proximal colon. The micropipette contained Cs(+) to remove K(+) currents. Depolarization elicited a slowly activating time-dependent outward current (I(tdo)), whereas repolarization was followed by a slowly deactivating tail current (I(tail)). I(tdo) and I(tail) were present in approximately 70% of neurons. We identified these currents as Cl(-) currents (I(Cl)), because changing the transmembrane Cl(-) gradient altered the measured reversal potential (E(rev)) of both I(tdo) and I(tail) with that for I(tail) shifted close to the calculated Cl(-) equilibrium potential (E(Cl)). I(Cl) are Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current [I(Cl(Ca))] because they were Ca(2+) dependent. E(Cl), which was measured from the E(rev) of I(Cl(Ca)) using a gramicidin perforated patch, was -33 mV. This value is more positive than the resting membrane potential (-56.3 +/- 2.7 mV), suggesting myenteric neurons accumulate intracellular Cl(-). omega-Conotoxin GIVA [0.3 microM; N-type Ca(2+) channel blocker] and niflumic acid [10 microM; known I(Cl(Ca)) blocker], decreased the I(Cl(Ca)). In conclusion, these neurons have I(Cl(Ca)) that are activated by Ca(2+) entry through N-type Ca(2+) channels. These currents likely regulate postspike frequency adaptation.

Multiple conductance states of single Ca2+-activated Cl- channels in rabbit pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

Ca2+-activated Cl- channels contribute to agonist-evoked contraction and spontaneous activity in some smooth muscle preparations. Patch pipette techniques were used to study the properties of single Ca2+-activated Cl- channels in freshly dispersed rabbit pulmonary artery myocytes. In the cell-attached recording mode, two conductance states of 3.5 and 1.8 pS were recorded either spontaneously or in response to increasing [Ca2+]i. With inside-out patches, the 3.5 pS channel current predominated at 50 nM [Ca2+]i, but at 500 nM [Ca2+]i most channels opened to the 1.8 pS level and an additional 1.2 pS channel conductance was resolved. At 1 microM [Ca2+]i all of the Cl- channels opened either to the 1.8 pS or 1.2 pS level. In 0 [Ca2+]i, no channel activity was observed at -100 mV to +100 mV, but with 10-250 nM [Ca2+]i the total single channel open probability (NP(o)) increased with depolarisation. This voltage dependence was not seen at higher values of [Ca2+]i. The plot of NPo vs. [Ca2+]i yielded Ca2+ affinity constants of 8 and 250 nM and Hill slopes of 1.3 and 2.3 at +100 and -100 mV, respectively. The distribution of open times was fitted by two exponentials of about 5 and 30 ms, which were neither voltage nor Ca2+ dependent. Replacement of external Cl- by I- shifted the reversal potential by about -30 mV and lengthened the longer of the two mean open times without significant effects on other kinetic parameters. Based on these data, a model for the activation of Ca2+-activated Cl- channels is proposed.

Anomalous effect of anthracene-9-carboxylic acid on calcium-activated chloride currents in rabbit pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

1 Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents (I(Cl(Ca))) evoked by K(+)-free pipette solutions containing 500 nM Ca(2+) were recorded in rabbit pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. A voltage step protocol in which the cells were stepped to +70 mV and then to -80 mV produced outward and inward Cl(-) currents respectively that exhibited distinctive voltage- and time-dependent kinetics that remained consistent for the recording period. 2 Application of the Cl(-) channel inhibitor anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (A-9-C, 500 micro M), produced a small inhibition of the maximum outward Cl(-) current at +70 mV (21+/-10%) but augmented the amplitude of the instantaneous inward relaxation at -80 mV by 321+/-34% (n=12). 3 The current recorded in the absence and presence of A-9-C reversed at the theoretical Cl(-) equilibrium potential and the reversal potential was shifted by about -40 mV upon replacement of external chloride ion by the more permeant anion thiocyanate. Currents in the absence and presence of A-9-C were similarly affected by 100 micro M niflumic acid. 4 Augmentation of the inward current at -80 mV by A-9-C required prior depolarization, i.e. A-9-C did not simply activate a Cl(-) current at negative membrane potentials. Moreover the degree of augmentation was independent of the internal Ca(2+) for concentrations between 100 nM and 1 micro M Ca(2+). 5 The data from the present study confirm previous observations that the inhibitory effect of Cl(-) channel blockers is modified when [Ca(2+)](i) is maintained at higher than normal resting concentrations.

Regenerative component of slow waves in the guinea-pig gastric antrum involves a delayed increase in [Ca(2+)](i) and Cl(-) channels

Regenerative potentials were initiated by depolarizing short segments of single bundles of circular muscle isolated from the gastric antrum of guinea-pigs. When changes in [Ca(2+)](i) and membrane potential were recorded simultaneously, regenerative potentials were found to be associated with an increase in [Ca(2+)](i), with the increase starting after a minimum latency of about 1 s. Although the increase in [Ca(2+)](i) was reduced by nifedipine, the amplitudes of the regenerative responses were little changed. Regenerative responses and associated changes in [Ca(2+)](i) were abolished by loading the preparations with the Ca(2+) chelator MAPTA-AM. Regenerative potentials were abolished by 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2APB), an inhibitor of IP(3) induced Ca(2+) release, by N-ethylamaleimide (NEM), an alkylating agent which blocks activation of G-proteins and were reduced in amplitude by two agents which block chloride (Cl(-))-selective channels in many tissues. The observations suggest that membrane depolarization triggers IP(3) formation. This causes Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores which activates Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-) channels.