Developmental change of T-type Ca2+ channel expression and its role in rat chromaffin cell responsiveness to acute hypoxia

Voltage-Gated T-Type Calcium Channel Modulation by Kinases and Phosphatases: The Old Ones, the New Ones, and the Missing Ones

Calcium (Ca2+) can regulate a wide variety of cellular fates, such as proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. More importantly, changes in the intracellular Ca2+ level can modulate signaling pathways that control a broad range of physiological as well as pathological cellular events, including those important to cellular excitability, cell cycle, gene-transcription, contraction, cancer progression, etc. Not only intracellular Ca2+ level but the distribution of Ca2+ in the intracellular compartments is also a highly regulated process. For this Ca2+ homeostasis, numerous Ca2+ chelating, storage, and transport mechanisms are required. There are also specialized proteins that are responsible for buffering and transport of Ca2+. T-type Ca2+ channels (TTCCs) are one of those specialized proteins which play a key role in the signal transduction of many excitable and non-excitable cell types. TTCCs are low-voltage activated channels that belong to the family of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Over decades, multiple kinases and phosphatases have been shown to modulate the activity of TTCCs, thus playing an indirect role in maintaining cellular physiology. In this review, we provide information on the kinase and phosphatase modulation of TTCC isoforms Cav3.1, Cav3.2, and Cav3.3, which are mostly described for roles unrelated to cellular excitability. We also describe possible potential modulations that are yet to be explored. For example, both mitogen-activated protein kinase and citron kinase show affinity for different TTCC isoforms; however, the effect of such interaction on TTCC current/kinetics has not been studied yet.

Oxygen Sensor of the Heart

How oxygen is sensed by the heart and what mechanisms mediate its sensing remain poorly understood. Since recent reports show that low PO₂ levels are detected by the cardiomyocytes in a few seconds, the rapid and short applications of low levels of oxygen (acute hypoxia), that avoid multiple effects of chronic hypoxia may be used to probe the oxygen sensing pathway of the heart. Here we explore the oxygen sensing pathway, focusing primarily on cellular surface membrane proteins that are first exposed to low PO₂. Such studies suggest that acute hypoxia primarily targets the cardiac calcium channels, where either the channel itself or moieties closely associated with it, for instance, heme-oxygenase-2 (HO-2) interacting through kinase phosphorylation, signals the α-subunit of the channel as to the altered levels of PO₂. Amino acids 1572-1651, the CaMKII phosphorylation sites (S1487 and S1545), CaM-binding site (I1624, Q1625) and Ser1928 of the carboxyl tail of the α-subunit appear to be critical residues that sense oxygen. Future studies in HO-2 knockout mice or CRISPR/Cas9 gene-edited hiPSC-CMs that reduce CaM-binding affinity are likely to provide deeper insights in the O₂-sensinsing mechanisms.

Prenatal Hypoxia Affects Foetal Cardiovascular Regulatory Mechanisms in a Sex- and Circadian-Dependent Manner: A Review

Prenatal hypoxia during the prenatal period can interfere with the developmental trajectory and lead to developing hypertension in adulthood. Prenatal hypoxia is often associated with intrauterine growth restriction that interferes with metabolism and can lead to multilevel changes. Therefore, we analysed the effects of prenatal hypoxia predominantly not associated with intrauterine growth restriction using publications up to September 2021. We focused on: (1) The response of cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms, such as the chemoreflex, adenosine, nitric oxide, and angiotensin II on prenatal hypoxia. (2) The role of the placenta in causing and attenuating the effects of hypoxia. (3) Environmental conditions and the mother's health contribution to the development of prenatal hypoxia. (4) The sex-dependent effects of prenatal hypoxia on cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms and the connection between hypoxia-inducible factors and circadian variability. We identified that the possible relationship between the effects of prenatal hypoxia on the cardiovascular regulatory mechanism may vary depending on circadian variability and phase of the days. In summary, even short-term prenatal hypoxia significantly affects cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms and programs hypertension in adulthood, while prenatal programming effects are not only dependent on the critical period, and sensitivity can change within circadian oscillations.

Mitochondrial acute oxygen sensing and signaling

Oxygen (O₂) is essential for life and therefore the supply of sufficient O₂ to the tissues is a major physiological challenge. In mammals, a deficit of O₂ (hypoxia) triggers rapid cardiorespiratory reflexes (e.g. hyperventilation and increased heart output) that within a few seconds increase the uptake of O₂ by the lungs and its distribution throughout the body. The prototypical acute O₂-sensing organ is the carotid body (CB), which contains sensory glomus cells expressing O₂-regulated ion channels. In response to hypoxia, glomus cells depolarize and release transmitters which activate afferent fibers terminating at the brainstem respiratory and autonomic centers. In this review, we summarize the basic properties of CB chemoreceptor cells and the essential role played by their specialized mitochondria in acute O₂ sensing and signaling. We focus on recent data supporting a "mitochondria-to-membrane signaling" model of CB chemosensory transduction. The possibility that the differential expression of specific subunit isoforms and enzymes could allow mitochondria to play a generalized adaptive O₂-sensing and signaling role in a wide variety of cells is also discussed.

Neuronal lineages derived from the nerve-associated Schwann cell precursors

For a long time, neurogenic placodes and migratory neural crest cells were considered the immediate sources building neurons of peripheral nervous system. Recently, a number of discoveries revealed the existence of another progenitor type-a nerve-associated multipotent Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) building enteric and parasympathetic neurons as well as neuroendocrine chromaffin cells. SCPs are neural crest-derived and are similar to the crest cells by their markers and differentiation potential. Such similarities, but also considerable differences, raise many questions pertaining to the medical side, fundamental developmental biology and evolution. Here, we discuss the genesis of Schwann cell precursors, their role in building peripheral neural structures and ponder on their role in the origin in congenial diseases associated with peripheral nervous systems.

Long-term facilitation of catecholamine secretion from adrenal chromaffin cells of neonatal rats by chronic intermittent hypoxia

In neonates, catecholamine (CA) secretion from adrenal medullary chromaffin cells (AMC) is an important mechanism for maintaining homeostasis during hypoxia. Nearly 90% of premature infants experience chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) because of high incidence of apnea of prematurity, which is characterized by periodic stoppage of breathing. The present study examined the effects of repetitive hypoxia, designed to mimic apnea of prematurity, on CA release from AMC of neonatal rats. Neonatal rats were exposed to either control conditions or chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) from ages postnatal days 0-5 (P0-P5), and CA release from adrenal medullary slices was measured after challenge with repetitive hypoxia (5 episodes of 30-s hypoxia, Po₂ ~35 mmHg). In response to repetitive hypoxia, chronic IH-treated AMC exhibited sustained CA release, and this phenotype was not seen in control AMC. The sustained CA release was associated with long-lasting elevation of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i), which was due to store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE). 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inhibitor of SOCE, prevented the long-lasting [Ca²⁺]_i elevation and CA release. Repetitive hypoxia increased H₂O₂ abundance, and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase, a scavenger of H₂O₂ blocked this effect. PEG-catalase also prevented repetitive hypoxia-induced SOCE activation, sustained [Ca²⁺]_i elevation, and CA release. These results demonstrate that repetitive hypoxia induces long-term facilitation of CA release in chronic IH-treated neonatal rat AMC through sustained Ca²⁺ influx mediated by SOCE.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Apnea of prematurity and the resulting chronic intermittent hypoxia are major clinical problems in neonates born preterm. Catecholamine release from adrenal medullary chromaffin cells maintains homeostasis during hypoxia in neonates. Our results demonstrate that chronic intermittent hypoxia induces a hitherto uncharacterized long-term facilitation of catecholamine secretion from neonatal rat chromaffin cells in response to repetitive hypoxia, simulating hypoxic episodes encountered during apnea of prematurity. The sustained catecholamine secretion might contribute to cardiovascular morbidities in infants with apnea of prematurity.

Acute oxygen sensing-Role of metabolic specifications in peripheral chemoreceptor cells

Acute oxygen sensing is essential for humans under hypoxic environments or pathologic conditions. This is achieved by the carotid body (CB), the key arterial chemoreceptor, along with other peripheral chemoreceptor organs, such as the adrenal medulla (AM). Although it is widely accepted that inhibition of K⁺ channels in the plasma membrane of CB cells during acute hypoxia results in the activation of cardiorespiratory reflexes, the molecular mechanisms by which the hypoxic signal is detected to modulate ion channel activity are not fully understood. Using conditional knockout mice lacking mitochondrial complex I (MCI) subunit NDUFS2, we have found that MCI generates reactive oxygen species and pyridine nucleotides, which signal K⁺ channels during acute hypoxia. Comparing the transcriptomes from CB and AM, which are O₂-sensitive, with superior cervical ganglion, which is practically O₂-insensitive, we have found that CB and AM contain unique metabolic gene expression profiles. The "signature metabolic profile" and their biophysical characteristics could be essential for acute O₂ sensing by chemoreceptor cells.

Striking parallels between carotid body glomus cell and adrenal chromaffin cell development

Carotid body glomus cells mediate essential reflex responses to arterial blood hypoxia. They are dopaminergic and secrete growth factors that support dopaminergic neurons, making the carotid body a potential source of patient-specific cells for Parkinson's disease therapy. Like adrenal chromaffin cells, which are also hypoxia-sensitive, glomus cells are neural crest-derived and require the transcription factors Ascl1 and Phox2b; otherwise, their development is little understood at the molecular level. Here, analysis in chicken and mouse reveals further striking molecular parallels, though also some differences, between glomus and adrenal chromaffin cell development. Moreover, histology has long suggested that glomus cell precursors are ‘émigrés’ from neighbouring ganglia/nerves, while multipotent nerve-associated glial cells are now known to make a significant contribution to the adrenal chromaffin cell population in the mouse. We present conditional genetic lineage-tracing data from mice supporting the hypothesis that progenitors expressing the glial marker proteolipid protein 1, presumably located in adjacent ganglia/nerves, also contribute to glomus cells. Finally, we resolve a paradox for the ‘émigré’ hypothesis in the chicken - where the nearest ganglion to the carotid body is the nodose, in which the satellite glia are neural crest-derived, but the neurons are almost entirely placode-derived - by fate-mapping putative nodose neuronal 'émigrés' to the neural crest.

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Glomus cell precursors express the neuron-specific marker Elavl3/4 (HuC/D).

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Developing glomus cells express multiple ‘sympathoadrenal' genes.

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Glomus cell development requires Hand2 and Sox4/11, but not Ret or Tfap2b.

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Multipotent progenitors with a glial phenotype contribute to glomus cells.

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Fate-mapping resolves a paradox for the ganglionic 'émigré' hypothesis in birds.

Hypoxia-regulated catecholamine secretion in chromaffin cells

Adrenal catecholamine (CAT) secretion is a general physiological response of animals to environmental stressors such as hypoxia. This represents an important adaptive mechanism to maintain homeostasis and protect vital organs such as the brain. In adult mammals, CAT secretory responses are triggered by activation of the sympathetic nervous system that supplies cholinergic innervation of adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMC) via the splanchnic nerve. In the neonate, the splanchnic innervation of AMC is immature or absent, yet hypoxia stimulates a non-neurogenic CAT secretion that is critical for adaptation to extra-uterine life. This non-neurogenic, hypoxia-sensing mechanism in AMC is gradually lost or suppressed postnatally along a time course that parallels the development of splanchnic innervation. Moreover, denervation of adult AMC results in a gradual return of the direct hypoxia-sensing mechanism. The signaling pathways by which neonatal AMC sense acute hypoxia leading to non-neurogenic CAT secretion and the mechanisms that underlie the re-acquisition of hypoxia-sensing properties by denervated adult AMC, are beginning to be understood. This review will focus on current views concerning the mechanisms responsible for direct acute hypoxia sensing and CAT secretion in perinatal AMC and how they are regulated by innervation during postnatal development. It will also briefly discuss plasticity mechanisms likely to contribute to CAT secretion during exposures to chronic and intermittent hypoxia.

Gene expression analyses reveal metabolic specifications in acute O2 -sensing chemoreceptor cells

KEY POINTS

Glomus cells in the carotid body (CB) and chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla (AM) are essential for reflex cardiorespiratory adaptation to hypoxia. However, the mechanisms whereby these cells detect changes in O₂ tension are poorly understood. The metabolic properties of acute O₂ -sensing cells have been investigated by comparing the transcriptomes of CB and AM cells, which are O₂ -sensitive, with superior cervical ganglion neurons, which are practically O₂ -insensitive. In O₂ -sensitive cells, we found a characteristic prolyl hydroxylase 3 down-regulation and hypoxia inducible factor 2α up-regulation, as well as overexpression of genes coding for three atypical mitochondrial electron transport subunits and pyruvate carboxylase, an enzyme that replenishes tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. In agreement with this observation, the inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase impairs CB acute O₂ sensing. The responsiveness of peripheral chemoreceptor cells to acute hypoxia depends on a 'signature metabolic profile'.

ABSTRACT

Acute O₂ sensing is a fundamental property of cells in the peripheral chemoreceptors, e.g. glomus cells in the carotid body (CB) and chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla (AM), and is necessary for adaptation to hypoxia. These cells contain O₂ -sensitive ion channels, which mediate membrane depolarization and transmitter release upon exposure to hypoxia. However, the mechanisms underlying the detection of changes in O₂ tension by cells are still poorly understood. Recently, we suggested that CB glomus cells have specific metabolic features that favour the accumulation of reduced quinone and the production of mitochondrial NADH and reactive oxygen species during hypoxia. These signals alter membrane ion channel activity. To investigate the metabolic profile characteristic of acute O₂ -sensing cells, we used adult mice to compare the transcriptomes of three cell types derived from common sympathoadrenal progenitors, but exhibiting variable responsiveness to acute hypoxia: CB and AM cells, which are O₂ -sensitive (glomus cells > chromaffin cells), and superior cervical ganglion neurons, which are practically O₂ -insensitive. In the O₂ -sensitive cells, we found a characteristic mRNA expression pattern of prolyl hydroxylase 3/hypoxia inducible factor 2α and up-regulation of several genes, in particular three atypical mitochondrial electron transport subunits and some ion channels. In addition, we found that pyruvate carboxylase, an enzyme fundamental to tricarboxylic acid cycle anaplerosis, is overexpressed in CB glomus cells. We also observed that the inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase impairs CB acute O₂ sensing. Our data suggest that responsiveness to acute hypoxia depends on a 'signature metabolic profile' in chemoreceptor cells.

Roles of Na+, Ca2+, and K+ channels in the generation of repetitive firing and rhythmic bursting in adrenal chromaffin cells

Adrenal chromaffin cells (CCs) are the main source of circulating catecholamines (CAs) that regulate the body response to stress. Release of CAs is controlled neurogenically by the activity of preganglionic sympathetic neurons through trains of action potentials (APs). APs in CCs are generated by robust depolarization following the activation of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors that are highly expressed in CCs. Bovine, rat, mouse, and human CCs also express a composite array of Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺ channels that regulate the resting potential, shape the APs, and set the frequency of AP trains. AP trains of increasing frequency induce enhanced release of CAs. If the primary role of CCs is simply to relay preganglionic nerve commands to CA secretion, why should they express such a diverse set of ion channels? An answer to this comes from recent observations that, like in neurons, CCs undergo complex firing patterns of APs suggesting the existence of an intrinsic CC excitability (non-neurogenically controlled). Recent work has shown that CCs undergo occasional or persistent burst firing elicited by altered physiological conditions or deletion of pore-regulating auxiliary subunits. In this review, we aim to give a rationale to the role of the many ion channel types regulating CC excitability. We will first describe their functional properties and then analyze how they contribute to pacemaking, AP shape, and burst waveforms. We will also furnish clear indications on missing ion conductances that may be involved in pacemaking and highlight the contribution of the crucial channels involved in burst firing.

Evolution of the hypoxia-sensitive cells involved in amniote respiratory reflexes

The evolutionary origins of the hypoxia-sensitive cells that trigger amniote respiratory reflexes - carotid body glomus cells, and 'pulmonary neuroendocrine cells' (PNECs) - are obscure. Homology has been proposed between glomus cells, which are neural crest-derived, and the hypoxia-sensitive 'neuroepithelial cells' (NECs) of fish gills, whose embryonic origin is unknown. NECs have also been likened to PNECs, which differentiate in situ within lung airway epithelia. Using genetic lineage-tracing and neural crest-deficient mutants in zebrafish, and physical fate-mapping in frog and lamprey, we find that NECs are not neural crest-derived, but endoderm-derived, like PNECs, whose endodermal origin we confirm. We discover neural crest-derived catecholaminergic cells associated with zebrafish pharyngeal arch blood vessels, and propose a new model for amniote hypoxia-sensitive cell evolution: endoderm-derived NECs were retained as PNECs, while the carotid body evolved via the aggregation of neural crest-derived catecholaminergic (chromaffin) cells already associated with blood vessels in anamniote pharyngeal arches.

Selective accumulation of biotin in arterial chemoreceptors: requirement for carotid body exocytotic dopamine secretion

KEY POINTS

Biotin, a vitamin whose main role is as a coenzyme for carboxylases, accumulates at unusually large amounts within cells of the carotid body (CB). In biotin-deficient rats biotin rapidly disappears from the blood; however, it remains at relatively high levels in CB glomus cells. The CB contains high levels of mRNA for SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin. Animals with biotin deficiency exhibit pronounced metabolic lactic acidosis. Remarkably, glomus cells from these animals have normal electrical and neurochemical properties. However, they show a marked decrease in the size of quantal dopaminergic secretory events. Inhibitors of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) mimic the effect of biotin deficiency. In biotin-deficient animals, VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with biotin depletion in CB cells. These data suggest that dopamine transport and/or storage in small secretory granules in glomus cells depend on biotin.

ABSTRACT

Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin required for the function of carboxylases as well as for the regulation of gene expression. Here, we report that biotin accumulates in unusually large amounts in cells of arterial chemoreceptors, carotid body (CB) and adrenal medulla (AM). We show in a biotin-deficient rat model that the vitamin rapidly disappears from the blood and other tissues (including the AM), while remaining at relatively high levels in the CB. We have also observed that, in comparison with other peripheral neural tissues, CB cells contain high levels of SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin. Biotin-deficient rats show a syndrome characterized by marked weight loss, metabolic lactic acidosis, aciduria and accelerated breathing with normal responsiveness to hypoxia. Remarkably, CB cells from biotin-deficient animals have normal electrophysiological and neurochemical (ATP levels and catecholamine synthesis) properties; however, they exhibit a marked decrease in the size of quantal catecholaminergic secretory events, which is not seen in AM cells. A similar differential secretory dysfunction is observed in CB cells treated with tetrabenazine, a selective inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). VMAT2 is highly expressed in glomus cells (in comparison with VMAT1), and in biotin-deficient animals VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with the decrease of biotin accumulated in CB cells. These data suggest that biotin has an essential role in the homeostasis of dopaminergic transmission modulating the transport and/or storage of transmitters within small secretory granules in glomus cells.

Enhanced BDNF signalling following chronic hypoxia potentiates catecholamine release from cultured rat adrenal chromaffin cells

KEY POINTS

We investigated the role of the neurotrophin BDNF signalling via the TrkB receptor in rat adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) exposed to normoxia (Nox; 21% O2) and chronic hypoxia (CHox; 2% O2) in vitro for ∼ 48 h. TrkB receptor expression was upregulated in primary AMCs and in immortalized chromaffin (MAH) cells exposed to CHox; this effect was absent in MAH cells deficient in the transcription factor, hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-2α. Relative to normoxic controls, activation of the TrkB receptor in chronically hypoxic AMCs led to a marked increase in membrane excitability, intracellular [Ca(2+)], and catecholamine secretion. The BDNF-induced rise of intracellular [Ca(2+)] in CHox cells was sensitive to the selective T-type Ca(2+) channel blocker TTA-P2 and tetrodotoxin (TTX), suggesting key roles of low threshold T-type Ca(2+) and voltage-gated Na(+) channels in the signalling pathway. Environmental stressors, including chronic hypoxia, enhance the ability of adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) to secrete catecholamines; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling in rat AMCs exposed to chronic hypoxia. In rat adrenal glands, BDNF and its tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) receptor are highly expressed in the cortex and medulla, respectively. Exposure of AMCs to chronic hypoxia (2% O2; 48 h) in vitro caused a significant increase to TrkB mRNA expression. A similar increase was observed in an immortalized chromaffin cell line (MAH cells); however, it was absent in MAH cells deficient in the transcription factor HIF-2α. A specific TrkB agonist, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF), stimulated quantal catecholamine secretion from chronically hypoxic (CHox; 2% O2) AMCs to a greater extent than normoxic (Nox; 21% O2) controls. Activation of TrkB by BDNF or 7,8-DHF increased intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]i), an effect that was significantly larger in CHox cells. The 7,8-DHF-induced [Ca(2+)]i rise was sensitive to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor K252a and nickel (2 mm), but not the Ca(2+) store-depleting agent cyclopiazonic acid. Blockade of T-type calcium channels with TTA-P2 (1 μm) or voltage-gated Na(+) channels with TTX inhibited BDNF-induced [Ca(2+)]i increases. BDNF also induced a dose-dependent enhancement of action potential firing in CHox cells. These data demonstrate that during chronic hypoxia, enhancement of BDNF-TrkB signalling increases voltage-dependent Ca(2+) influx and catecholamine secretion in chromaffin cells, and that T-type Ca(2+) channels play a key role in the signalling pathway.

Oxygen sensing by the carotid body: mechanisms and role in adaptation to hypoxia

Oxygen (O2) is fundamental for cell and whole-body homeostasis. Our understanding of the adaptive processes that take place in response to a lack of O2(hypoxia) has progressed significantly in recent years. The carotid body (CB) is the main arterial chemoreceptor that mediates the acute cardiorespiratory reflexes (hyperventilation and sympathetic activation) triggered by hypoxia. The CB is composed of clusters of cells (glomeruli) in close contact with blood vessels and nerve fibers. Glomus cells, the O2-sensitive elements in the CB, are neuron-like cells that contain O2-sensitive K(+)channels, which are inhibited by hypoxia. This leads to cell depolarization, Ca(2+)entry, and the release of transmitters to activate sensory fibers terminating at the respiratory center. The mechanism whereby O2modulates K(+)channels has remained elusive, although several appealing hypotheses have been postulated. Recent data suggest that mitochondria complex I signaling to membrane K(+)channels plays a fundamental role in acute O2sensing. CB activation during exposure to low Po2is also necessary for acclimatization to chronic hypoxia. CB growth during sustained hypoxia depends on the activation of a resident population of stem cells, which are also activated by transmitters released from the O2-sensitive glomus cells. These advances should foster further studies on the role of CB dysfunction in the pathogenesis of highly prevalent human diseases.

Hypoxic induction of T-type Ca(2+) channels in rat cardiac myocytes: role of HIF-1α and RhoA/ROCK signalling

T-type Ca(2+) channels are expressed in the ventricular myocytes of the fetal and perinatal heart, but are normally downregulated as development progresses. Interestingly, however, these channels are re-expressed in adult cardiomyocytes under pathological conditions. We investigated low voltage-activated T-type Ca(2+) channel regulation in hypoxia in rat cardiomyocytes. Molecular studies revealed that hypoxia induces the upregulation of Cav 3.2 mRNA, whereas Cav 3.1 mRNA is not significantly altered. The effect of hypoxia on Cav 3.2 mRNA was time- and dose-dependent, and required hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) stabilization. Patch-clamp recordings confirmed that T-type Ca(2+) channel currents were upregulated in hypoxic conditions, and the addition of 50 μm NiCl2 (a T-type channel blocker) demonstrated that the Cav 3.2 channel is responsible for this upregulation. This increase in current density was not accompanied by significant changes in the Cav 3.2 channel electrophysiological properties. The small monomeric G-protein RhoA and its effector Rho-associated kinase I (ROCKI), which are known to play important roles in cardiovascular physiology, were also upregulated in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes subjected to hypoxia. Pharmacological experiments indicated that both proteins were involved in the observed upregulation of the Cav 3.2 channel and the stabilization of HIF-1α that occurred in response to hypoxia. These results suggest a possible role for Cav 3.2 channels in the increased probability of developing arrhythmias observed in ischaemic situations, and in the pathogenesis of diseases associated with hypoxic Ca(2+) overload.

Tight mitochondrial control of calcium and exocytotic signals in chromaffin cells at embryonic life

Calcium buffering by mitochondria plays a relevant physiological function in the regulation of Ca(2+) and exocytotic signals in mature chromaffin cells (CCs) from various adult mammals. Whether a similar or different role of mitochondrial Ca(2+) buffering is present in immature CCs at early life has not been explored. Here we present a comparative study in rat embryonic CCs and rat mother CCs, of various physiological parameters that are known to be affected by mitochondrial Ca(2+) buffering during cell activation. We found that the clearance of cytosolic Ca(2+) transients ([Ca(2+)]c) elicited by high K(+) was 7-fold faster in embryo CCs compared to mother CCs. This strongly suggests that at embryonic life, the mitochondria play a more significant role in the clearance of [Ca(2+)]c loads compared to adult life. Consistent with this view are the following results concerning the transient suppression of mitochondrial Ca(2+) buffering by protonophore FCCP, in embryonic CCs compared to mother CCs: (i) faster and greater inactivation of inward calcium currents, (ii) higher K(+)-elicited [Ca(2+)]c transients with 25-fold faster clearance, (iii) higher increase of basal catecholamine release and (iv) higher potentiation of K(+)-evoked secretion. These pronounced differences could be explained by two additional features (embryo versus mother CCs): (a) slower recovery of mitochondrial resting membrane potential after the application of a transient FCCP pulse and (b) greater relative density of the mitochondria in the cytosol. This tighter control by the mitochondria of Ca(2+) and exocytotic signals may be relevant to secure a healthy catecholamine secretory response at early life.

Cav1.3 Channels as Key Regulators of Neuron-Like Firings and Catecholamine Release in Chromaffin Cells

Neuronal and neuroendocrine L-type calcium channels (Cav1.2, Cav1.3) open readily at relatively low membrane potentials and allow Ca(2+) to enter the cells near resting potentials. In this way, Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 shape the action potential waveform, contribute to gene expression, synaptic plasticity, neuronal differentiation, hormone secretion and pacemaker activity. In the chromaffin cells (CCs) of the adrenal medulla, Cav1.3 is highly expressed and is shown to support most of the pacemaking current that sustains action potential (AP) firings and part of the catecholamine secretion. Cav1.3 forms Ca(2+)-nanodomains with the fast inactivating BK channels and drives the resting SK currents. These latter set the inter-spike interval duration between consecutive spikes during spontaneous firing and the rate of spike adaptation during sustained depolarizations. Cav1.3 plays also a primary role in the switch from "tonic" to "burst" firing that occurs in mouse CCs when either the availability of voltage-gated Na channels (Nav) is reduced or the β2 subunit featuring the fast inactivating BK channels is deleted. Here, we discuss the functional role of these "neuron-like" firing modes in CCs and how Cav1.3 contributes to them. The open issue is to understand how these novel firing patterns are adapted to regulate the quantity of circulating catecholamines during resting condition or in response to acute and chronic stress.

Ontogeny of O2 and CO2//H+ chemosensitivity in adrenal chromaffin cells: role of innervation

The adrenal medulla plays a key role in the physiological responses of developing and mature mammals by releasing catecholamines (CAT) during stress. In rodents and humans, the innervation of CAT-producing, adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) is immature or absent during early postnatal life, when these cells possess 'direct' hypoxia- and CO2/H(+)-chemosensing mechanisms. During asphyxial stressors at birth, these mechanisms contribute to a CAT surge that is critical for adaptation to extra-uterine life. These direct chemosensing mechanisms regress postnatally, in parallel with maturation of splanchnic innervation. Here, we review the evidence that neurotransmitters released from the splanchnic nerve during innervation activate signaling cascades that ultimately cause regression of direct AMC chemosensitivity to hypoxia and hypercapnia. In particular, we consider the roles of cholinergic and opioid receptor signaling, given that splanchnic nerves release acetylcholine and opiate peptides onto their respective postsynaptic nicotinic and opioid receptors on AMCs. Recent in vivo and in vitro studies in the rat suggest that interactions involving α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-2α signaling pathway, protein kinases and ATP-sensitive K(+) (KATP) channels contribute to the selective suppression of hypoxic chemosensitivity. In contrast, interactions involving μ- and/or δ-opiod receptor signaling pathways contribute to the suppression of both hypoxic and hypercapnic chemosensitivity, via regulation of the expression of KATP channels and carbonic anhydrase (CA I and II), respectively. These data suggest that the ontogeny of O2 and CO2/H(+) chemosensitivity in chromaffin cells can be regulated by the tonic release of presynaptic neurotransmitters.

Transcriptional regulation of α1H T-type calcium channel under hypoxia

The low-voltage-activated T-type Ca(2+) channels play an important role in mediating the cellular responses to altered oxygen tension. Among three T-type channel isoforms, α1G, α1H, and α1I, only α1H was found to be upregulated under hypoxia. However, mechanisms underlying such hypoxia-dependent isoform-specific gene regulation remain incompletely understood. We, therefore, studied the hypoxia-dependent transcriptional regulation of α1G and α1H gene promoters with the aim to identify the functional hypoxia-response elements (HREs). In rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells after hypoxia (3% O2) exposure, we observed a prominent increase in α1H mRNA at 12 h along with a significant rise in α1H-mediated T-type current at 24 and 48 h. We then cloned two promoter fragments from the 5'-flanking regions of rat α1G and α1H gene, 2,000 and 3,076 bp, respectively, and inserted these fragments into a luciferase reporter vector. Transient transfection of PASMCs and PC12 cells with these recombinant constructs and subsequent luciferase assay revealed a significant increase in luciferase activity from the reporter containing the α1H, but not α1G, promoter fragment under hypoxia. Using serial deletion and point mutation analysis strategies, we identified a functional HRE at site -1,173cacgc-1,169 within the α1H promoter region. Furthermore, an electrophoretic mobility shift assay using this site as a DNA probe demonstrated an increased binding activity to nuclear protein extracts from the cells after hypoxia exposure. Taken together, these findings indicate that hypoxia-induced α1H upregulation involves binding of hypoxia-inducible factor to an HRE within the α1H promoter region.

Hypoxia-elicited catecholamine release is controlled by L-type as well as N/PQ types of calcium channels in rat embryo chromaffin cells

At early life, the adrenal chromaffin cells respond with a catecholamine surge under hypoxic conditions. This response depends on Ca(2+) entry through voltage-activated calcium channels (VACCs). We have investigated here three unresolved questions that concern this response in rat embryo chromaffin cells (ECCs): 1) the relative contribution of L (α1D, Cav1.3), N (α1B, Cav2.2), and PQ (α1A, Cav2.1) to the whole cell Ca(2+) current (ICa); 2) the relative contribution of L and N/PQ channels to the cytosolic Ca(2+) elevations triggered by hypoxia (Δ[Ca(2+)]c); and 3) the role of L and non-L high-VACCs in the regulation of the catecholamine surge occurring during prolonged (1 min) hypoxia exposure of ECCs. Nimodipine halved peak ICa and blocked 60% the total Ca(2+) entry during a 50-ms depolarizing pulse to 0 mV (QCa). Combined ω-agatoxin IVA plus ω-conotoxin GVIA (Aga/GVIA) blocked 30% of both ICa peak and QCa. This relative proportion of L- and non-L VACCs was corroborated by Western blot that indicated 55, 23, and 25% relative expression of L, N, and PQ VACCs. Exposure of ECCs to hypoxia elicited a mild but sustained Δ[Ca(2+)]c; the area of Δ[Ca(2+)]c was blocked 50% by nifedipine and 10% by Aga/GVIA. Exposure of ECCs to 1-min hypoxia elicited an initial transient burst of amperometric secretory spikes followed by scattered spikes along the time of cell exposure to hypoxia. This bulk response was blocked 85% by nimodipine and 35% by Aga/GVIA. Histograms on secretory spike frequency vs. time indicated a faster initial inactivation when Ca(2+) entry took place through N/PQ channels; more sustained secretion but at a lower rate was associated to Ca(2+) entry through L channels. The results suggest that the HIS response may initially be controlled by L and P/Q channels, but later on, N/PQ channels inactivate and the delayed HIS response is maintained at lower rate by slow-inactivating L channels.

Chronic opioids regulate KATP channel subunit Kir6.2 and carbonic anhydrase I and II expression in rat adrenal chromaffin cells via HIF-2α and protein kinase A

At birth, asphyxial stressors such as hypoxia and hypercapnia are important physiological stimuli for adrenal catecholamine release that is critical for the proper transition to extrauterine life. We recently showed that chronic opioids blunt chemosensitivity of neonatal rat adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) to hypoxia and hypercapnia. This blunting was attributable to increased ATP-sensitive K(+) (KATP) channel and decreased carbonic anhydrase (CA) I and II expression, respectively, and involved μ- and δ-opioid receptor signaling pathways. To address underlying molecular mechanisms, we first exposed an O2- and CO2-sensitive, immortalized rat chromaffin cell line (MAH cells) to combined μ {[d-Arg(2),Ly(4)]dermorphin-(1-4)-amide}- and δ ([d-Pen(2),5,P-Cl-Phe(4)]enkephalin)-opioid agonists (2 μM) for ∼7 days. Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that chronic opioids increased KATP channel subunit Kir6.2 and decreased CAII expression; both effects were blocked by naloxone and were absent in hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α-deficient MAH cells. Chronic opioids also stimulated HIF-2α accumulation along a time course similar to Kir6.2. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays on opioid-treated cells revealed the binding of HIF-2α to a hypoxia response element in the promoter region of the Kir6.2 gene. The opioid-induced regulation of Kir6.2 and CAII was dependent on protein kinase A, but not protein kinase C or calmodulin kinase, activity. Interestingly, a similar pattern of HIF-2α, Kir6.2, and CAII regulation (including downregulation of CAI) was replicated in chromaffin tissue obtained from rat pups born to dams exposed to morphine throughout gestation. Collectively, these data reveal novel mechanisms by which chronic opioids blunt asphyxial chemosensitivity in AMCs, thereby contributing to abnormal arousal responses in the offspring of opiate-addicted mothers.

T-type channel-mediated neurotransmitter release

Besides controlling a wide variety of cell functions, T-type channels have been shown to regulate neurotransmitter release in peripheral and central synapses and neuroendocrine cells. Growing evidence over the last 10 years suggests a key role of Cav3.2 and Cav3.1 channels in controlling basal neurosecretion near resting conditions and sustained release during mild stimulations. In some cases, the contribution of low-voltage-activated (LVA) channels is not directly evident but requires either the activation of coupled presynaptic receptors, block of ion channels, or chelation of metal ions. Concerning the coupling to the secretory machinery, T-type channels appear loosely coupled to neurotransmitter and hormone release. In neurons, Cav3.2 and Cav3.1 channels mainly control the asynchronous appearance of "minis" [miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) and miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs)]. The same loose coupling is evident from membrane capacity and amperometric recordings in chromaffin cells and melanotropes where the low-threshold-driven exocytosis possesses the same linear Ca(2+) dependence of the other voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (Cav1 and Cav2) that is strongly attenuated by slow calcium buffers. The intriguing issue is that, despite not expressing a consensus "synprint" site, Cav3.2 channels do interact with syntaxin 1A and SNAP-25 and, thus, may form nanodomains with secretory vesicles that can be regulated at low voltages. In this review, we discuss all the past and recent issues related to T-type channel-secretion coupling in neurons and neuroendocrine cells.

Cellular properties and chemosensory responses of the human carotid body

The carotid body (CB) is the major peripheral arterial chemoreceptor in mammals that mediates the acute hyperventilatory response to hypoxia. The CB grows in response to sustained hypoxia and also participates in acclimatisation to chronic hypoxaemia. Knowledge of CB physiology at the cellular level has increased considerably in recent times thanks to studies performed on lower mammals, and rodents in particular. However, the functional characteristics of human CB cells remain practically unknown. Herein, we use tissue slices or enzymatically dispersed cells to determine the characteristics of human CB cells. The adult human CB parenchyma contains clusters of chemosensitive glomus (type I) and sustentacular (type II) cells as well as nestin-positive progenitor cells. This organ also expresses high levels of the dopaminotrophic glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). We found that GDNF production and the number of progenitor and glomus cells were preserved in the CBs of human subjects of advanced age. Moreover, glomus cells exhibited voltage-dependent Na(+), Ca(2+) and K(+) currents that were qualitatively similar to those reported in lower mammals. These cells responded to hypoxia with an external Ca(2+)-dependent increase of cytosolic Ca(2+) and quantal catecholamine secretion, as reported for other mammalian species. Interestingly, human glomus cells are also responsive to hypoglycaemia and together these two stimuli can potentiate each other's effects. The chemosensory responses of glomus cells are also preserved at an advanced age. These new data on the cellular and molecular physiology of the CB pave the way for future pathophysiological studies involving this organ in humans.

Chronic exposure of neonatal rat adrenomedullary chromaffin cells to opioids in vitro blunts both hypoxia and hypercapnia chemosensitivity

At birth, rat adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) respond directly to asphyxial stressors such as hypoxia and hypercapnia by triggering catecholamine secretion, which is critical for proper transition to extrauterine life. These non-neurogenic responses are suppressed postnatally in parallel with the development of splanchnic innervation, and reappear following denervation of the adult adrenal gland. To test whether neural factors released from the splanchnic nerve may regulate AMC chemosensitivity, we previously showed that nicotinic agonists in utero and in vitro suppressed hypoxia, but not hypercapnia, sensitivity. Here, we considered the potential role of opiate peptides which are also released from the splanchnic nerve and act via postsynaptic μ-, δ- and -opioid receptors. Treatment of neonatal rat AMC cultures for ∼1 week with μ- and/or δ- (but not ) opioid agonists (2 μm) led to a marked suppression of both hypoxia and hypercapnia sensitivity, as measured by K(+) current inhibition and membrane depolarization; co-incubation with naloxone prevented the effects of combined opioids. The suppression of hypoxia sensitivity was attributable to upregulation of K(ATP) current density and the K(ATP) channel subunit Kir6.2, and was reversed by the K(ATP) channel blocker, glibenclamide. By contrast, suppression of hypercapnia sensitivity was associated with down-regulation of two key mediators of CO(2) sensing, i.e. carbonic anhydrase I and II. Collectively, these studies point to a novel role for opioid receptor signalling in the developmental regulation of chromaffin cell chemosensitivity, and suggest that prenatal exposure to opioid drugs could lead to impaired arousal responses in the neonate.

The temporal characteristics of Ca2+ entry through L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels shape exocytosis efficiency in chick auditory hair cells during development

During development, synaptic exocytosis by cochlear hair cells is first initiated by patterned spontaneous Ca(2+) spikes and, at the onset of hearing, by sound-driven graded depolarizing potentials. The molecular reorganization occurring in the hair cell synaptic machinery during this developmental transition still remains elusive. We characterized the changes in biophysical properties of voltage-gated Ca(2+) currents and exocytosis in developing auditory hair cells of a precocial animal, the domestic chick. We found that immature chick hair cells (embryonic days 10-12) use two types of Ca(2+) currents to control exocytosis: low-voltage-activating, rapidly inactivating (mibefradil sensitive) T-type Ca(2+) currents and high-voltage-activating, noninactivating (nifedipine sensitive) L-type currents. Exocytosis evoked by T-type Ca(2+) current displayed a fast release component (RRP) but lacked the slow sustained release component (SRP), suggesting an inefficient recruitment of distant synaptic vesicles by this transient Ca(2+) current. With maturation, the participation of L-type Ca(2+) currents to exocytosis largely increased, inducing a highly Ca(2+) efficient recruitment of an RRP and an SRP component. Notably, L-type-driven exocytosis in immature hair cells displayed higher Ca(2+) efficiency when triggered by prerecorded native action potentials than by voltage steps, whereas similar efficiency for both protocols was found in mature hair cells. This difference likely reflects a tighter coupling between release sites and Ca(2+) channels in mature hair cells. Overall, our results suggest that the temporal characteristics of Ca(2+) entry through T-type and L-type Ca(2+) channels greatly influence synaptic release by hair cells during cochlear development.

Control of low-threshold exocytosis by T-type calcium channels

Low-voltage-activated (LVA) T-type Ca²⁺ channels differ from their high-voltage-activated (HVA) homologues by unique biophysical properties. Hence, whereas HVA channels convert action potentials into intracellular Ca²⁺ elevations, T-type channels control Ca²⁺ entry during small depolarizations around the resting membrane potential. They play an important role in electrical activities by generating low-threshold burst discharges that occur during various physiological and pathological forms of neuronal rhythmogenesis. In addition, they mediate a previously unrecognized function in the control of synaptic transmission where they directly trigger the release of neurotransmitters at rest. In this review, we summarize our present knowledge of the role of T-type Ca²⁺ channels in vesicular exocytosis, and emphasize the critical importance of localizing the exocytosis machinery close to the Ca²⁺ source for reliable synaptic transmission. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium channels.

Functional chromaffin cell plasticity in response to stress: focus on nicotinic, gap junction, and voltage-gated Ca2+ channels

An increase in circulating catecholamines constitutes one of the mechanisms whereby human body responds to stress. In response to chronic stressful situations, the adrenal medullary tissue exhibits crucial morphological and functional changes that are consistent with an improvement of chromaffin cell stimulus-secretion coupling efficiency. Stimulus-secretion coupling encompasses multiple intracellular (chromaffin cell excitability, Ca(2+) signaling, exocytosis, endocytosis) and intercellular pathways (splanchnic nerve-mediated synaptic transmission, paracrine and endocrine communication, gap junctional coupling), each of them being potentially subjected to functional remodeling upon stress. This review focuses on three chromaffin cell incontrovertible actors, the cholinergic nicotinic receptors and the voltage-dependent T-type Ca(2+) channels that are directly involved in Ca(2+)-dependent events controlling catecholamine secretion and electrical activity, and the gap junctional communication involved in the modulation of catecholamine secretion. We show here that these three actors react differently to various stressors, sometimes independently, sometimes in concert or in opposition.

Peripheral chemoreceptors in air- versus water- breathers

Among the vertebrates, peripheral chemoreceptors have evolved to play a key role in matching oxygen delivery to the metabolic needs of the body cells and tissues. Specialized neuroepithelial cells (NECs) distributed within the gill filaments and/or lamellae of water-breathers appear to subserve this function by initiating an increase in ventilation in response to lowering of blood or water PO(2) (hypoxia). It is only recently, however, that these cells have become amenable for detailed investigations using electrophysiological tools. By contrast, the well-studied specialized neuroendocrine cells (i.e. glomus or type I cells) located principally in the carotid body of air-breathers initiate a similar reflex ventilatory response to hypoxia so as to maintain blood PO(2) homeostasis. In some species, however, the carotid body is immature and relatively insensitive to hypoxia at birth; it is during this period that their sympathoadrenal counterparts in the adrenal medulla act as key PO(2) receptors, critical for the proper transition to air-breathing life. It is becoming increasingly clear that in general these chemoreceptors act as polymodal receptors, i.e. capable of detecting several sensory modalities including high CO(2)/H(+) or acid hypercapnia. Given the phylogenetic and ontogenetic evidence pointing to homology between the mammalian carotid artery and the first gill arch of teleosts, the question arises whether the mechanisms of chemosensing are conserved among these cell types. This review examines some of the anatomical and functional similarities among these peripheral chemoreceptors, while raising the possibility that the fundamental mechanisms of O(2) and CO(2)/H(+) sensing arose first in water-breathers and are conserved among the vertebrates.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) recruits low voltage-activated T-type calcium influx under acute sympathetic stimulation in mouse adrenal chromaffin cells

Low voltage-activated T-type Ca(v)3.2 calcium channels are expressed in neurosecretory chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla. Previous studies have shown that naïve adrenal chromaffin cells express a nominal Ca(v)3.2-dependent conductance. However, Ca(v)3.2 conductance is up-regulated following chronic hypoxia or long term exposure to cAMP analogs. Thus, although a link between chronic stressors and up-regulation of Ca(v)3.2 exists, there are no reports testing the specific role of Ca(v)3.2 channels in the acute sympathoadrenal stress response. In this study, we examined the effects of acute sympathetic stress on T-type Ca(v)3.2 calcium influx in mouse chromaffin cells in situ. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is an excitatory neuroactive peptide transmitter released by the splanchnic nerve under elevated sympathetic activity to stimulate the adrenal medulla. PACAP stimulation did not evoke action potential firing in chromaffin cells but did cause a persistent subthreshold membrane depolarization that resulted in an immediate and robust Ca(2+)-dependent catecholamine secretion. Moreover, PACAP-evoked secretion was sensitive to block by nickel chloride and was acutely inhibited by protein kinase C blockers. We utilized perforated patch electrophysiological recordings conducted in adrenal tissue slices to investigate the mechanism of PACAP-evoked calcium entry. We provide evidence that stimulation with exogenous PACAP and native neuronal stress stimulation both lead to a protein kinase C-mediated phosphodependent recruitment of a T-type Ca(v)3.2 Ca(2+) influx. This in turn evokes catecholamine release during the acute sympathetic stress response.

T-type Ca2+ channels in mouse embryonic stem cells: modulation during cell cycle and contribution to self-renewal

Ion channels participate in cell homeostasis and are involved in the regulation of proliferation and differentiation in several cell types; however, their presence and function in embryonic stem (ES) cells are poorly studied. We have investigated the existence of voltage-dependent inward currents in mouse ES cells and their ability to modulate proliferation and self-renewal. Patch-clamped ES cells had inactivating tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive Na(+) currents as well as transient Ca(2+) currents abolished by the external application of Ni(2+). Biophysical and pharmacological data indicated that the Ca(2+) current is predominantly mediated by T-type (Ca(v)3.2) channels. The number of cells expressing T-type channels and Ca(v)3.2 mRNA levels increased at the G1/S transition of the cell cycle. TTX had no effect on ES cell proliferation. However, blockade of T-type Ca(2+) currents with Ni(2+) induced a decrease in proliferation and alkaline phosphatase positive colonies as well as reduced expression of Oct3/4 and Nanog, all indicative of loss in self-renewal capacity. Decreased alkaline phosphatase and Oct3/4 expression were also observed in cells subjected to small interfering RNA-induced knockdown for T-type (Ca(v)3.2) Ca(2+) channels, thus partially recapitulating the pharmacological effects on self-renewal. These results indicate that Ca(v)3.2 channel expression in ES cells is modulated along the cell cycle being induced at late G1 phase. They also suggest that these channels are involved in the maintenance of the undifferentiated state of mouse ES cells. We propose that Ca(2+) entry mediated by Ca(v)3.2 channels might be one of the intracellular signals that participate in the complex network responsible for ES cell self-renewal.

Low glucose sensitivity and polymodal chemosensing in neonatal rat adrenomedullary chromaffin cells

Glucose is the primary metabolic fuel in mammalian fetuses, yet mammals are incapable of endogenous glucose production until several hours after birth. Thus, when the maternal supply of glucose ceases at birth there is a transient hypoglycemia that elicits a counterregulatory surge in circulating catecholamines. Because the innervation of adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMCs) is immature at birth, we hypothesized that neonatal AMCs act as direct glucosensors, a property that could complement their previously established roles as hypoxia and acid hypercapnia sensors. During perforated-patch, whole cell recordings, low glucose depolarized and/or excited a subpopulation of neonatal AMCs; in addition, aglycemia (0 mM glucose) caused inhibition of outward K+ current, blunted by the simultaneous activation of glibenclamide-sensitive KATP channels. Some cells were excited by each of the three metabolic stimuli, i.e., aglycemia, hypoxia (Po2 ∼30 mmHg), and isohydric hypercapnia (10% CO2; pH = 7.4). Using carbon fiber amperometry, aglycemia and hypoglycemia (3 mM glucose) induced robust catecholamine secretion that was sensitive to nickel (50 μM and 2 mM) and the L-type Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine (10 μM), suggesting involvement of both T-type and L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Fura-2 measurements of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+] i) revealed that ∼42% of neonatal AMCs responded to aglycemia with a significant rise in [Ca2+] i. Approximately 40% of these cells responded to hypoxia, whereas ∼25% cells responded to both aglycemia and hypoxia. These data suggest that together with hypoxia and acid hypercapnia, low glucose is another important metabolic stimulus that contributes to the vital asphyxia-induced catecholamine surge from AMCs at birth.

Gap junction-mediated intercellular communication in the adrenal medulla: an additional ingredient of stimulus-secretion coupling regulation

The traditional understanding of stimulus-secretion coupling in adrenal neuroendocrine chromaffin cells states that catecholamines are released upon trans-synaptic sympathetic stimulation mediated by acetylcholine released from the splanchnic nerve terminals. Although this statement remains largely true, it deserves to be tempered. In addition to its neurogenic control, catecholamine secretion also depends on a local gap junction-mediated communication between chromaffin cells. We review here the insights gained since the first description of gap junctions in the adrenal medullary tissue. Adrenal stimulus-secretion coupling now appears far more intricate than was previously envisioned and its deciphering represents a challenge for neurobiologists engaged in the study of the regulation of neuroendocrine secretion. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.

Adenosine A₂a receptors and O₂ sensing in development

Reduced mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, via activation of adenylate kinase and the resulting exponential rise in the cellular AMP/ATP ratio, appears to be a critical factor underlying O₂ sensing in many chemoreceptive tissues in mammals. The elevated AMP/ATP ratio, in turn, activates key enzymes that are involved in physiologic adjustments that tend to balance ATP supply and demand. An example is the conversion of AMP to adenosine via 5'-nucleotidase and the resulting activation of adenosine A(₂A) receptors, which are involved in acute oxygen sensing by both carotid bodies and the brain. In fetal sheep, A(₂A) receptors associated with carotid bodies trigger hypoxic cardiovascular chemoreflexes, while central A(₂A) receptors mediate hypoxic inhibition of breathing and rapid eye movements. A(₂A) receptors are also involved in hypoxic regulation of fetal endocrine systems, metabolism, and vascular tone. In developing lambs, A(₂A) receptors play virtually no role in O₂ sensing by the carotid bodies, but brain A(₂A) receptors remain critically involved in the roll-off ventilatory response to hypoxia. In adult mammals, A(₂A) receptors have been implicated in O₂ sensing by carotid glomus cells, while central A(₂A) receptors likely blunt hypoxic hyperventilation. In conclusion, A(₂A) receptors are crucially involved in the transduction mechanisms of O₂ sensing in fetal carotid bodies and brains. Postnatally, central A(₂A) receptors remain key mediators of hypoxic respiratory depression, but they are less critical for O₂ sensing in carotid chemoreceptors, particularly in developing lambs.

Developmental and stress-induced remodeling of cell–cell communication in the adrenal medullary tissue

The adrenal medullary tissue contributes to maintain body homeostasis in reaction to stressful environmental changes via the release of catecholamines into the blood circulation in response to splanchnic nerve activation. Accordingly, chromaffin cell stimulus-secretion coupling undergoes temporally restricted periods of anatomo- functional remodeling in response to prevailing hormonal requirements of the organism. The postnatal development of the adrenal medulla and response to stress are remarkable physiological situations in which the stimulus- secretion coupling is critically affected. Catecholamine secretion from rat chromaffin cells is under a dual control involving an incoming initial command arising from the sympathetic nervous system that releases acetylcholine at the splanchnic nerve terminal-chromaffin cell synapses and a local gap junction-mediated intercellular communication. Interestingly, these two communication pathways are functionally interconnected within the gland and exhibit coordinated plasticity mechanisms. This article reviews the physiological and molecular evidence that the adrenal medullary tissue displays anatomical and functional adaptative remodeling of cell–cell communications upon physiological (postnatal development) and/or physiopathological (stress) situations associated with specific needs in circulating catecholamine levels.

Divergent roles of reactive oxygen species in the responses of perinatal adrenal chromaffin cells to hypoxic challenges

The fetus and neonate experience variable patterns of low P(O)₂(hypoxia) ranging from acute, sustained, and intermittent. Adaptation to hypoxia involves activation of key transcription factors, known as hypoxia-inducible factors (e.g. HIF-1α, HIF-2α), which regulate a number of genes in different cell types. This review focuses on the signaling pathways that mediate proper physiological responses of perinatal adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMC) to varying patterns of hypoxic challenges, and particularly on the controversial role of reactive oxygen species (ROS). At birth, acute hypoxia (seconds to minutes) directly stimulates catecholamine release from AMC via K+ channel inhibition, mediated by a decrease in mitochondrial-derived ROS. By contrast, exposure to chronic sustained hypoxia (CSH) induces HIF-2α in a fetal-derived chromaffin cell line independently of changes in ROS. Exposure to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) activates antioxidant responses via the regulator Nrf-2, in association with an increase in ROS and the induction of HIF-1α. We propose that the physiological responses of perinatal AMC to hypoxia and the ensuing directional changes in ROS are dependent on the pattern and duration of the hypoxic exposure.

NADPH oxidase-dependent regulation of T-type Ca2+ channels and ryanodine receptors mediate the augmented exocytosis of catecholamines from intermittent hypoxia-treated neonatal rat chromaffin cells

Nearly 90% of premature infants experience the stress of intermittent hypoxia (IH) as a consequence of recurrent apneas (periodic cessation of breathing). In neonates, catecholamine secretion from the adrenal medulla is critical for maintaining homeostasis under hypoxic stress. We recently reported that IH treatment enhanced hypoxia-evoked catecholamine secretion and [Ca2+]i responses in neonatal rat adrenal chromaffin cells and involves reactive oxygen species (ROS). The purpose of the present study was to identify the source(s) of ROS generation and examine the mechanisms underlying the enhanced catecholamine secretion by IH. Neonatal rats of either sex (postal day 0-5) were exposed to either IH or normoxia. IH treatment increased NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity, upregulated NOX2 and NOX4 transcription in adrenal medullae, and a NOX inhibitor prevented the effects of IH on hypoxia-evoked chromaffin cell secretion. IH upregulated Cav3.1 and Cav3.2 T-type Ca2+ channel mRNAs via NOX/ROS signaling and augmented T-type Ca2+ current in IH-treated chromaffin cells. Mibefradil, a blocker of T-type Ca2+ channels attenuated the effects of hypoxia on [Ca2+]i and catecholamine secretion in IH-treated cells. In Ca2+-free medium, IH-treated cells exhibited higher basal [Ca2+]i levels and more pronounced [Ca2+]i responses to hypoxia compared with controls, and blockade of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) prevented these effects. RyR2 and RyR3 mRNAs were upregulated, RyR2 was S-glutathionylated in IH-treated adrenal medullae, and NOX/ROS inhibitors prevented these effects. These results demonstrate that neonatal IH treatment leads to NOX/ROS-dependent recruitment of T-type Ca2+ channels and RyRs, resulting in augmented [Ca2+]i mobilization and catecholamine secretion.

Neonatal intermittent hypoxia impairs neuronal nicotinic receptor expression and function in adrenal chromaffin cells

We recently reported that adrenomedullary chromaffin cells (AMC) from neonatal rats treated with intermittent hypoxia (IH) exhibit enhanced catecholamine secretion by hypoxia (Souvannakitti D, Kumar GK, Fox A, Prabhakar NR. J Neurophysiol 101: 2837-2846, 2009). In the present study, we examined whether neonatal IH also facilitate AMC responses to nicotine, a potent stimulus to chromaffin cells. Experiments were performed on rats exposed to either IH (15-s hypoxia-5-min normoxia; 8 h/day) or to room air (normoxia; controls) from ages postnatal day 0 (P0) to P5. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed expression of mRNAs alpha(3-), alpha(5-), alpha(7-), and beta(2-) and beta(4-)nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunits in adrenal medullae from control P5 rats. Nicotine-elevated intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in AMC and nAChR antagonists prevented this response, suggesting that nAChRs are functional in neonatal AMC. In IH-treated rats, nAChR mRNAs were downregulated in AMC, which resulted in a markedly attenuated nicotine-evoked elevation in [Ca(2+)](i) and subsequent catecholamine secretion. Systemic administration of antioxidant prevented IH-evoked downregulation of nAChR expression and function. P35 rats treated with neonatal IH exhibited reduced nAChR mRNA expression in adrenal medullae, attenuated AMC responses to nicotine, and impaired neurogenic catecholamine secretion. Thus the response to neonatal IH lasts for at least 30 days. These observations demonstrate that neonatal IH downregulates nAChR expression and function in AMC via reactive oxygen species signaling, and the effects of neonatal IH persist at least into juvenile life, leading to impaired neurogenic catecholamine secretion from AMC.