Phospholipase C-mediated regulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 channels: implications in active intestinal Ca2+ transport

Phosphoinositide Regulation of TRP Channels: A Functional Overview in the Structural Era

Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels have diverse activation mechanisms including physical stimuli, such as high or low temperatures, and a variety of intracellular signaling molecules. Regulation by phosphoinositides and their derivatives is their only known common regulatory feature. For most TRP channels, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] serves as a cofactor required for activity. Such dependence on PI(4,5)P2 has been demonstrated for members of the TRPM subfamily and for the epithelial TRPV5 and TRPV6 channels. Intracellular TRPML channels show specific activation by PI(3,5)P2. Structural studies uncovered the PI(4,5)P2 and PI(3,5)P2 binding sites for these channels and shed light on the mechanism of channel opening. PI(4,5)P2 regulation of TRPV1-4 as well as some TRPC channels is more complex, involving both positive and negative effects. This review discusses the functional roles of phosphoinositides in TRP channel regulation and molecular insights gained from recent cryo-electron microscopy structures.

Bidirectional Allosteric Coupling between PIP2 Binding and the Pore of the Oncochannel TRPV6

The epithelial ion channel TRPV6 plays a pivotal role in calcium homeostasis. Channel function is intricately regulated at different stages, involving the lipid phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). Given that dysregulation of TRPV6 is associated with various diseases, including different types of cancer, there is a compelling need for its pharmacological targeting. Structural studies provide insights on how TRPV6 is affected by different inhibitors, with some binding to sites else occupied by lipids. These include the small molecule cis-22a, which, however, also binds to and thereby blocks the pore. By combining calcium imaging, electrophysiology and optogenetics, we identified residues within the pore and the lipid binding site that are relevant for regulation by cis-22a and PIP2 in a bidirectional manner. Yet, mutation of the cytosolic pore exit reduced inhibition by cis-22a but preserved sensitivity to PIP2 depletion. Our data underscore allosteric communication between the lipid binding site and the pore and vice versa for most sites along the pore.

Structural basis of the activation of TRPV5 channels by long-chain acyl-Coenzyme-A

Long-chain acyl-coenzyme A (LC-CoA) is a crucial metabolic intermediate that plays important cellular regulatory roles, including activation and inhibition of ion channels. The structural basis of ion channel regulation by LC-CoA is not known. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 5 and 6 (TRPV5 and TRPV6) are epithelial calcium-selective ion channels. Here, we demonstrate that LC-CoA activates TRPV5 and TRPV6 in inside-out patches, and both exogenously supplied and endogenously produced LC-CoA can substitute for the natural ligand phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) in maintaining channel activity in intact cells. Utilizing cryo-electron microscopy, we determined the structure of LC-CoA-bound TRPV5, revealing an open configuration with LC-CoA occupying the same binding site as PI(4,5)P2 in previous studies. This is consistent with our finding that PI(4,5)P2 could not further activate the channels in the presence of LC-CoA. Our data provide molecular insights into ion channel regulation by a metabolic signaling molecule.

What structures did, and did not, reveal about the function of the epithelial Ca2+ channels TRPV5 and TRPV6

Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 5 and 6 (TRPV5 and TRPV6) are Ca2+ selective epithelial ion channels. They are the products of a relatively recent gene duplication in mammals, and have high sequence homology to each other. Their functional properties are also much more similar to each other than to other members of the TRPV subfamily. They are both constitutively active, and this activity depends on the endogenous cofactor phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2]. Both channels undergo Ca2+-induced inactivation, which is mediated by direct binding of the ubiquitous Ca2+ binding protein calmodulin (CaM) to the channels, and by a decrease in PI(4,5)P2 levels by Ca2+ -induced activation of phospholipase C (PLC). Recent cryo electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and X-ray crystallography structures provided detailed structural information for both TRPV5 and TRPV6. This review will discuss this structural information in the context of the function of these channels focusing on the mechanism of CaM inhibition, activation by PI(4,5)P2 and binding of pharmacological modulators.

TRPV6 Regulation by Cis-22a and Cholesterol

The highly calcium-selective transient receptor potential vanilloid-type channel TRPV6 is important for epithelial Ca²⁺ transport. Proper regulation of the inherently constitutively active TRPV6 channels is intricate in preserving Ca²⁺ homeostasis, whereby structural and functional data suggest that lipids hold an essential role. Altered expression levels or specific TRPV6 mutations may lead to diseases, hence, TRPV6 represents an interesting target for pharmacological modulation. Recent cryo-EM data identified that the specific TRPV6 blocker cis-22a binds, apart from the pore, to a site within the tetrameric channel that largely matches a lipid binding pocket, LBS-2. Therein, cis-22a may replace a lipid such as cholesterol that is bound in the open state. Based on site-directed mutagenesis and functional recordings, we identified and characterized a series of residues within LBS-2 that are essential for TRPV6 inhibition by cis-22a. Additionally, we investigated the modulatory potential of diverse cholesterol depletion efforts on TRPV6 activity. While LBS-2 mutants exhibited altered maximum currents, slow Ca²⁺-dependent inactivation (SCDI) as well as less inhibition by cis-22a, TRPV6 activity was resistant to cholesterol depletion. Hence, lipids other than cholesterol may predominate TRPV6 regulation when the channel is expressed in HEK293 cells.

Calcium selective channel TRPV6: Structure, function, and implications in health and disease

Calcium-selective channel TRPV6 (Transient Receptor Potential channel family, Vanilloid subfamily member 6) belongs to the TRP family of cation channels and plays critical roles in transcellular calcium (Ca2+) transport, reuptake of Ca2+ into cells, and maintaining a local low Ca2+ environment for certain biological processes. Recent crystal and cryo-electron microscopy-based structures of TRPV6 have revealed mechanistic insights on how the protein achieves Ca2+ selectivity, permeation, and inactivation by calmodulin. The TRPV6 protein is expressed in a range of epithelial tissues such as the intestine, kidney, placenta, epididymis, and exocrine glands such as the pancreas, prostate and salivary, sweat, and mammary glands. The TRPV6 gene is a direct transcriptional target of the active form of vitamin D and is efficiently regulated to meet the body's need for Ca2+ demand. In addition, TRPV6 is also regulated by the level of dietary Ca2+ and under physiological conditions such as pregnancy and lactation. Genetic models of loss of function in TRPV6 display hypercalciuria, decreased bone marrow density, deficient weight gain, reduced fertility, and in some cases alopecia. The models also reveal that the channel plays an indispensable role in maintaining maternal-fetal Ca2+ transport and low Ca2+ environment in the epididymal lumen that is critical for male fertility. Most recently, loss of function mutations in TRPV6 gene is linked to transient neonatal hyperparathyroidism and early onset chronic pancreatitis. TRPV6 is overexpressed in a wide range of human malignancies and its upregulation is strongly correlated to tumor aggressiveness, metastasis, and poor survival in selected cancers. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the expression, structure, biophysical properties, function, polymorphisms, and regulation of TRPV6. The aberrant expression, polymorphisms, and dysfunction of this protein linked to human diseases are also discussed.

The role of TRPV channels in osteoporosis

As the world's population ages, the treatment of osteoporosis is a major problem to be addressed. The cause of osteoporosis remains unclear. Ca²⁺ is not only an important component of bones but also plays a key role in osteoporosis treatment. Transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels are one of the TRP channel families that is widely distributed in various organs, playing an important role in the physiological regulation of the human body. Bone formation and bone absorption may require Ca²⁺ transport via TRPV channels. It has been proven that the TRPV subtypes 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 (TRPV1, TRPV2, TRPV4, TRPV5, TRPV6) may affect bone metabolism balance through selective regulation of Ca²⁺. They significantly regulate osteoblast/osteoclast proliferation, differentiation and function. The purpose of this review is to explore the mechanisms of TRPV channels involved in regulation of the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, as well as to discuss the latest developments in current researches, which may provide new clues and directions for an in-depth study of osteoporosis and other related bone metabolic diseases.

Coronavirus disease 2019, vitamin D and kidney function

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to summarize the emerging studies analyzing the association between vitamin D and risk of COVID-19 infection and severity, as well as the early interventional studies investigating the protective effect of vitamin D supplementation against COVID-19.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies investigating the association between vitamin D levels and risk of COVID-19 infection and risk of severe disease and mortality among those infected have yielded mixed results. Thus far, the majority of studies investigating the association between vitamin D and COVID-19 have been observational and rely on vitamin D levels obtained at the time of admission, limiting causal inference. Currently, clinical trials assessing the effects of vitamin D supplementation in individuals with COVID-19 infection are extremely limited. Randomized, interventional trials may offer more clarity on the protective effects of vitamin D against COVID-19 infection and outcomes.

SUMMARY

Decreased levels of vitamin D may amplify the inflammatory effects of COVID-19 infection, yet, data regarding the mortality benefits of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19-infected individuals are still limited. Current observational data provides the impetus for future studies to including randomized controlled trials to determine whether vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19-infected individuals with kidney disease can improve mortality outcomes.

Autoinhibition of TRPV6 Channel and Regulation by PIP2

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 (TRPV6), a calcium-selective channel possessing six transmembrane domains (S1-S6) and intracellular N and C termini, plays crucial roles in calcium absorption in epithelia and bone and is involved in human diseases including vitamin-D deficiency, osteoporosis, and cancer. The TRPV6 function and regulation remain poorly understood. Here we show that the TRPV6 intramolecular S4-S5 linker to C-terminal TRP helix (L/C) and N-terminal pre-S1 helix to TRP helix (N/C) interactions, mediated by Arg470:Trp593 and Trp321:Ile597 bonding, respectively, are autoinhibitory and are required for maintaining TRPV6 at basal states. Disruption of either interaction by mutations or blocking peptides activates TRPV6. The N/C interaction depends on the L/C interaction but not reversely. Three cationic residues in S5 or C terminus are involved in binding PIP2 to suppress both interactions thereby activating TRPV6. This study reveals "PIP2 - intramolecular interactions" regulatory mechanism of TRPV6 activation-autoinhibition, which will help elucidating the corresponding mechanisms in other TRP channels.

Bioavailability and prebiotic potential of Carapax Trionycis, a waste from soft-shelled turtle processing

BACKGROUND

Carapax Trionycis is the shell of the soft-shelled turtle. It is rich in minerals, amino acid, peptides, and other nutrients. Current processing and consumption of soft-shelled turtle leads to the waste of huge quantities of Carapax Trionycis in the form of spent materials. In this study, the bioavailability, prebiotic activity, and physicochemical properties of Carapax Trionycis using different processing methods were investigated. The vinegar-quenched Carapax Trionycis (V-CT), fine powders (D0.18, D0.10), and superfine powders (D0.05, D0.025) of Carapax Trionycis were prepared by the vinegar-quenching method, common grinding, and the superfine grinding method.

RESULTS

The average particle sizes of D0.18, D0.10, D0.05, and D0.025 were 147.82, 77.35, 36.65, and 2.24 μm, respectively. Superfine grinding changed the surface morphology of Carapax Trionycis and promoted the release of active ingredients. D0.025 had the highest polypeptide (8.15%), polysaccharide (1.21%), total free amino acid (232.36 mg 100 g^-1 ) and water-soluble extract content (10.74%), and showed the highest calcium release rate (55.64%) after in vitro digestion. The apparent permeability (P_APP ) of the resulting Carapax Trionycis samples in the dialysis tubing model and the everted intestinal sac model increased significantly with the decrease in the Carapax Trionycis particle sizes. Furthermore, the five Carapax Trionycis samples significantly stimulated the growth of the tested probiotics and increased lactic acids production after 48 h fermentation compared to the control. The Carapax Trionycis powder prepared by superfine grinding displayed better prebiotic activity than other samples as it significantly induced a greater proliferation of probiotic bacteria and higher production of lactic acid, as well as greater release of free calcium.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that Carapax Trionycis superfine powder D0.025 had the highest active ingredient content, calcium bioavailability, and prebiotic activity. Our approach of developing Carapax Trionycis superfine powder as natural calcium supplement or potential prebiotic would therefore broaden the scope of soft-shelled turtle processing waste utilization in an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable approach in the future. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Activation of the calcium sensing receptor attenuates TRPV6-dependent intestinal calcium absorption

Plasma calcium (Ca2+) is maintained by amending the release of parathyroid hormone and through direct effects of the Ca2+ sensing receptor (CaSR) in the renal tubule. Combined, these mechanisms alter intestinal Ca2+ absorption by modulating 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 production, bone resorption, and renal Ca2+ excretion. The CaSR is a therapeutic target in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism and hypocalcemia a common complication of calcimimetic therapy. The CaSR is also expressed in intestinal epithelium, however, a direct role in regulating local intestinal Ca2+ absorption is unknown. Chronic CaSR activation decreased expression of genes involved in Ca2+ absorption. In Ussing chambers, increasing extracellular Ca2+ or basolateral application of the calcimimetic cinacalcet decreased net Ca2+ absorption across intestinal preparations acutely. Conversely, Ca2+ absorption increased with decreasing extracellular Ca2+ concentration. These responses were absent in mice expressing a non-functional TRPV6, TRPV6D541A. Cinacalcet also attenuated Ca2+ fluxes through TRPV6 in Xenopus oocytes when co-expressed with the CaSR. Moreover, the phospholipase C inhibitor, U73122, prevented cinacalcet-mediated inhibition of Ca2+ flux. These results reveal a regulatory pathway whereby activation of the CaSR in the basolateral membrane of the intestine directly attenuates local Ca2+ absorption via TRPV6 to prevent hypercalcemia and help explain how calcimimetics induce hypocalcemia.

MBD1 Contributes to the Genesis of Acute Pain and Neuropathic Pain by Epigenetic Silencing of Oprm1 and Kcna2 Genes in Primary Sensory Neurons

The transmission of normal sensory and/or acute noxious information requires intact expression of pain-associated genes within the pain pathways of nervous system. Expressional changes of these genes after peripheral nerve injury are also critical for neuropathic pain induction and maintenance. Methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 1 (MBD1), an epigenetic repressor, regulates gene transcriptional activity. We report here that MBD1 in the primary sensory neurons of DRG is critical for the genesis of acute pain and neuropathic pain as DRG MBD1-deficient mice exhibit the reduced responses to acute mechanical, heat, cold, and capsaicin stimuli and the blunted nerve injury-induced pain hypersensitivities. Furthermore, DRG overexpression of MBD1 leads to spontaneous pain and evoked pain hypersensitivities in the WT mice and restores acute pain sensitivities in the MBD1-deficient mice. Mechanistically, MDB1 represses Oprm1 and Kcna2 gene expression by recruiting DNA methyltransferase DNMT3a into these two gene promoters in the DRG neurons. DRG MBD1 is likely a key player under the conditions of acute pain and neuropathic pain.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In the present study, we revealed that the mice with deficiency of methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 1 (MBD1), an epigenetic repressor, in the DRG displayed the reduced responses to acute noxious stimuli and the blunted neuropathic pain. We also showed that DRG overexpression of MBD1 produced the hypersensitivities to noxious stimuli in the WT mice and rescued acute pain sensitivities in the MBD1-deficient mice. We have also provided the evidence that MDB1 represses Oprm1 and Kcna2 gene expression by recruiting DNA methyltransferase DNMT3a into these two gene promoters in the DRG neurons. DRG MBD1 may participate in the genesis of acute pain and neuropathic pain likely through regulating DNMT3a-controlled Oprm1 and Kcna2 gene expression in the DRG neurons.

Modulation of the Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation by Endocannabinoids and Their Lipid Analogues

Growing evidence supports the pivotal role played by oxidative stress in tissue injury development, thus resulting in several pathologies including cardiovascular, renal, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders, all characterized by an altered oxidative status. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and lipid peroxidation-derived reactive aldehydes including acrolein, malondialdehyde, and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, among others, are the main responsible for cellular and tissue damages occurring in redox-dependent processes. In this scenario, a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and redox homeostasis impairment appears to be crucial. Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol, the best characterized endocannabinoids, are able to modulate the activity of several antioxidant enzymes through targeting the cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 as well as additional receptors such as the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, and the orphan G protein-coupled receptors 18 and 55. Moreover, the endocannabinoids lipid analogues N-acylethanolamines showed to protect cell damage and death from reactive aldehydes-induced oxidative stress by restoring the intracellular oxidants-antioxidants balance. In this review, we will provide a better understanding of the main mechanisms triggered by the cross-talk between the oxidative stress and the ECS, focusing also on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants as scavengers of reactive aldehydes and their toxic bioactive adducts.

Oxytocin Modulates Nociception as an Agonist of Pain-Sensing TRPV1

Oxytocin is a hormone with various actions. Oxytocin-containing parvocellular neurons project to the brainstem and spinal cord. Oxytocin release from these neurons suppresses nociception of inflammatory pain, the molecular mechanism of which remains unclear. Here, we report that the noxious stimulus receptor TRPV1 is an ionotropic oxytocin receptor. Oxytocin elicits TRPV1 activity in native and heterologous expression systems, regardless of the presence of the classical oxytocin receptor. In TRPV1 knockout mice, DRG neurons exhibit reduced oxytocin sensitivity relative to controls, and oxytocin injections significantly attenuate capsaicin-induced nociception in in vivo experiments. Furthermore, oxytocin potentiates TRPV1 in planar lipid bilayers, supporting a direct agonistic action. Molecular modeling and simulation experiments provide insight into oxytocin-TRPV1 interactions, which resemble DkTx. Together, our findings suggest the existence of endogenous regulatory pathways that modulate nociception via direct action of oxytocin on TRPV1, implying its analgesic effect via channel desensitization.

Ca2+ Regulation of TRP Ion Channels

Ca²⁺ signaling influences nearly every aspect of cellular life. Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels have emerged as cellular sensors for thermal, chemical and mechanical stimuli and are major contributors to Ca²⁺ signaling, playing an important role in diverse physiological and pathological processes. Notably, TRP ion channels are also one of the major downstream targets of Ca²⁺ signaling initiated either from TRP channels themselves or from various other sources, such as G-protein coupled receptors, giving rise to feedback regulation. TRP channels therefore function like integrators of Ca²⁺ signaling. A growing body of research has demonstrated different modes of Ca²⁺-dependent regulation of TRP ion channels and the underlying mechanisms. However, the precise actions of Ca²⁺ in the modulation of TRP ion channels remain elusive. Advances in Ca²⁺ regulation of TRP channels are critical to our understanding of the diversified functions of TRP channels and complex Ca²⁺ signaling.

A molecular determinant of phosphoinositide affinity in mammalian TRPV channels

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] is an important cofactor for ion channels. Affinity for this lipid is a major determinant of channel inhibition by depletion of PI(4,5)P2 upon phospholipase C (PLC) activation. Little is known about what determines PI(4,5)P2 affinity in mammalian ion channels. Here we report that two members of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid (TRPV) ion channel family, TRPV5 and TRPV6 lack a positively charged residue in the TM4-TM5 loop that was shown to interact with PI(4,5)P2 in TRPV1, which shows high affinity for this lipid. When this positively charged residue was introduced to either TRPV6 or TRPV5, they displayed markedly higher affinities for PI(4,5)P2, and were largely resistant to inhibition by PI(4,5)P2 depletion. Furthermore, Ca(2+)-induced inactivation of TRPV6 was essentially eliminated in the G488R mutant, showing the importance of PLC-mediated PI(4,5)P2 depletion in this process. Computational modeling shows that the introduced positive charge interacts with PI(4,5)P2 in TRPV6.

Phosphoinositide regulation of TRPV1 revisited

The heat- and capsaicin-sensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 ion channel (TRPV1) is regulated by plasma membrane phosphoinositides. The effects of these lipids on this channel have been controversial. Recent articles re-ignited the debate and also offered resolution to place some of the data in a coherent picture. This review summarizes the literature on this topic and provides a detailed and critical discussion on the experimental evidence for the various effects of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphayte [PI(4,5)P2 or PIP2] on TRPV1. We conclude that PI(4,5)P2 and potentially its precursor PI(4)P are positive cofactors for TRPV1, acting via direct interaction with the channel, and their depletion by Ca(2+)-induced activation of phospholipase Cδ isoforms (PLCδ) limits channel activity during capsaicin-induced desensitization. Other negatively charged lipids at higher concentrations can also support channel activity, which may explain some controversies in the literature. PI(4,5)P2 also partially inhibits channel activity in some experimental settings, and relief from this inhibition upon PLCβ activation may contribute to sensitization. The negative effect of PI(4,5)P2 is more controversial and its mechanism is less well understood. Other TRP channels from the TRPV and TRPC families may also undergo similar dual regulation by phosphoinositides, thus the complexity of TRPV1 regulation is not unique to this channel.

Expression of TRPV5 and TRPV6 in development of colonic adenocarcinoma

AIM: To investigate the expression of transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 5 (TRPV5) and TRPV6 in the development of colon adenocarcinoma and to discuss the role of TRPV5 and TRPV6 in the carcinogenesis of this malignancy.

METHODS: TRPV5, TRPV6 and Ki-67 expression was examined by immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR, and Western blot in 20 colonic hyperplastic polyp, 20 colonic adenoma (40 for immunohistochemical staining), 20 colonic adenocarcinoma, and 20 normal colonic mucosal tissues obtained by endoscopic biopsy, surgical resection or endoscopic polypectomy. The relationship between the expression of TRPV6 and TRPV5 and the carcinogenesis of colon adenocarcinoma was then assessed.

RESULTS: TRPV5 and TRPV6 expression was detectable in the normal colon, colonic polyp and colonic cancer tissues, mainly localized in the cytoplasm. The expression of Ki-67 increased with the increase in TRPV5 and TRPV6 expression (P < 0.05). TRPV5 and TRPV6 proteins and mRNAs were weakly or not expressed in normal intestinal mucosa and non-adenoma polyps (P > 0.05), but were highly expressed in colon adenoma and colon adenocarcinoma (P < 0.05). TRPV5 and TRPV6 expression had a significant correlation with histological type (P < 0.05). In the colonic mucosa, TRPV5 expression was lower than TRPV6 expression (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: TRPV5 and TRPV6 show high expression in colon adenoma and adenocarcinoma, and Ki-67 expression is correlated with TRPV5 and TRPV6 expression. TRPV5 and TRPV6 might be related with the extent of tissue proliferation and the risk of malignant transformation of polyps. TRPV5 and TRPV6 may play an important role in the carcinogenesis and development of colonic adenocarcinoma.

The low PLC-δ1 expression in cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial cells induces upregulation of TRPV6 channel activity

Increase of Ca(2+) influx in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) cells has been reported to be related to Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC6) channel, which is implicated in a functional coupling with Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR). Several members of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid (TRPV) channels family have already been described as emerging target for respiratory diseases. Two specific isoforms, TRPV5 and TRPV6 are of particular interest in the context of CF Ca(2+) homeostasis as they are highly selective toward Ca(2+) and constitutively activated. Thus, we investigated the involvement of these channels in Ca(2+) influx in CF and non-CF human bronchial epithelial cell lines. 16HBE14o-, CFBE41o- cell lines, primary human airway epithelial cells (hAEC) and freshly isolated human airway epithelial cells from CF and non-CF individuals were used. We showed that both channels are expressed in CF and non-CF cells and constitutive Ca(2+) influx was significantly higher (85%) in cells from CF individuals compared to cells from non-CF ones. Using the selective inhibitor of TRPV6 channel SOR-C27 and a siRNA strategy, our results revealed that TRPV6 was mostly involved in the increase of Ca(2+) influx. TRPV6 channel is negatively regulated by the PLC-PIP2 pathway. We measured the Ca(2+) influx in the presence of the non-specific PLC inhibitor, U73122, in non-CF human bronchial epithelial cells. Ca(2+) influx was increased by 33% with U73122 and this increase was largely reduced in the presence of SOR-C27. PLC inhibition in CF cells by U73122 had no effect on Ca(2+) influx. These results showed that PLC-PIP2 pathway is dysregulated in CF cells and leads to the increase of TRPV6 activity. The regulation of TRPV6 by PLC-PIP2 pathway implicates the specific PLC isoform, PLC-δ1. Immunoblot experiments revealed that expression of PLC-δ1 was decreased by 70% in CF cells. TRPV6 activity was normalized but not the level of expression of PLC-δ1 protein after F508del-CFTR rescue by low temperature for 48 h or treated for 24 h by 10 μM VX-809 in CF cells. This study revealed TRPV6 and PLC-δ1 as critical actor of Ca(2+) homeostasis in CF human bronchial epithelial cells.

Phosphoinositide regulation of TRP channels

Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels are activated by stimuli as diverse as heat, cold, noxious chemicals, mechanical forces, hormones, neurotransmitters, spices, and voltage. Besides their presumably similar general architecture, probably the only common factor regulating them is phosphoinositides. The regulation of TRP channels by phosphoinositides is complex. There are a large number of TRP channels where phosphatidylinositol 4,5 bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2 or PIP2] acts as a positive cofactor, similarly to many other ion channels. In several cases, however, PI(4,5)P2 inhibits TRP channel activity, sometimes even concurrently with the activating effect. This chapter will provide a comprehensive overview of the literature on regulation of TRP channels by membrane phosphoinositides.

Riluzole activates TRPC5 channels independently of PLC activity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The transient receptor potential channel C5 (TRPC5) is a Ca(2+)-permeable cation channel, which is predominantly expressed in the brain. TRPC5 is activated in a PLC-dependent manner by, as yet, unidentified endogenous messengers. Recently, modulators of TRPC5, like Ca(2+), pH and phospholipids, have been identified. However, the role of TRPC5 in vivo is only poorly understood. Novel specific modulators of TRPC5 might help to elucidate its function.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Novel modulators of TRPC5 were identified in a compound screening of approved drugs and natural compounds. The potency and selectivity of TRPC5-activating compounds were determined by fluorometric calcium imaging. The biophysical properties of channel activation by these compounds were analysed using electrophysiological measurements.

KEY RESULTS

Riluzole was identified as a novel activator of TRPC5 (EC₅₀ 9.2 ± 0.5 μM) and its mechanism of action was shown to be independent of G protein signalling and PLC activity. Riluzole-induced TRPC5 currents were potentiated by La(3+) and, utilizing TRPC5 mutants that lack La(3+) binding sites, it was confirmed that riluzole and La(3+) activate TRPC5 by different mechanisms. Recordings of excised inside-out patches revealed a relatively direct effect of riluzole on TRPC5.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Riluzole can activate TRPC5 heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells as well as those endogenously expressed in the U-87 glioblastoma cell line. Riluzole does not activate any other member of the TRPC family and could, therefore, despite its action on other ion channels, be a useful pharmacological tool for identifying TRPC5-specific currents in immortalized cell lines or in acutely isolated primary cells.

Novel calcium ion channels TRPV5 and TRPV6 and gastrointestinal tumors

Transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 5 (TRPV5) and TRPV6 are the subfamily members of the transient receptor potential (TRP), representing new highly selective Ca2+ membrane transport channels, which are mainly responsible for active transport of Ca2+ across the cell membrane and participate in regulation of many physiological activities in the body. This paper discusses the structures and electrophysiological properties of TRPV5 and TRPV6, their related factors and their relationship with gastrointestinal tumors, highlighting the role of TRPV5 and TRPV6 in the formation of gastrointestinal tumors.

TRP channels

TRP channels constitute a large superfamily of cation channel forming proteins, all related to the gene product of the transient receptor potential (trp) locus in Drosophila. In mammals, 28 different TRP channel genes have been identified, which exhibit a large variety of functional properties and play diverse cellular and physiological roles. In this article, we provide a brief and systematic summary of expression, function, and (patho)physiological role of the mammalian TRP channels.

Regulation of transient receptor potential channels by the phospholipase C pathway

Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels were discovered while analyzing visual mutants in Drosophila. The protein encoded by the transient receptor potential (trp) gene is a Ca(2+) permeable cation channel activated downstream of the phospholipase C (PLC) pathway. While searching for homologs in other organisms, a surprisingly large number of mammalian TRP channels was cloned. The regulation of TRP channels is quite diverse, but many of them are either activated downstream of PLC, or modulated by it. This review will summarize the current knowledge on regulation of TRP channels by PLC, with special focus on TRPC-s, which can be considered as effectors of PLC and the heat- and capsaicin-sensitive TRPV1, which is modulated by the PLC pathway in a complex manner.

The Arabidopsis DREB2 genetic pathway is constitutively repressed by basal phosphoinositide-dependent phospholipase C coupled to diacylglycerol kinase

Phosphoinositide-dependent phospholipases C (PI-PLCs) are activated in response to various stimuli. They utilize substrates provided by type III-Phosphatidylinositol-4 kinases (PI4KIII) to produce inositol triphosphate and diacylglycerol (DAG) that is phosphorylated into phosphatidic acid (PA) by DAG-kinases (DGKs). The roles of PI4KIIIs, PI-PLCs, and DGKs in basal signaling are poorly understood. We investigated the control of gene expression by basal PI-PLC pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana suspension cells. A transcriptome-wide analysis allowed the identification of genes whose expression was altered by edelfosine, 30 μM wortmannin, or R59022, inhibitors of PI-PLCs, PI4KIIIs, and DGKs, respectively. We found that a gene responsive to one of these molecules is more likely to be similarly regulated by the other two inhibitors. The common action of these agents is to inhibit PA formation, showing that basal PI-PLCs act, in part, on gene expression through their coupling to DGKs. Amongst the genes up-regulated in presence of the inhibitors, were some DREB2 genes, in suspension cells and in seedlings. The DREB2 genes encode transcription factors with major roles in responses to environmental stresses, including dehydration. They bind to C-repeat motifs, known as Drought-Responsive Elements that are indeed enriched in the promoters of genes up-regulated by PI-PLC pathway inhibitors. PA can also be produced by phospholipases D (PLDs). We show that the DREB2 genes that are up-regulated by PI-PLC inhibitors are positively or negatively regulated, or indifferent, to PLD basal activity. Our data show that the DREB2 genetic pathway is constitutively repressed in resting conditions and that DGK coupled to PI-PLC is active in this process, in suspension cells and seedlings. We discuss how this basal negative regulation of DREB2 genes is compatible with their stress-triggered positive regulation.

Interplay between calmodulin and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate in Ca2+-induced inactivation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 channels

The epithelial Ca(2+) channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 (TRPV6) undergoes Ca(2+)-induced inactivation that protects the cell from toxic Ca(2+) overload and may also limit intestinal Ca(2+) transport. To dissect the roles of individual signaling pathways in this phenomenon, we studied the effects of Ca(2+), calmodulin (CaM), and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P(2)) in excised inside-out patches. The activity of TRPV6 strictly depended on the presence of PI(4,5)P(2), and Ca(2+)-CaM inhibited the channel at physiologically relevant concentrations. Ca(2+) alone also inhibited TRPV6 at high concentrations (IC(50) = ∼20 μM). A double mutation in the distal C-terminal CaM-binding site of TRPV6 (W695A/R699E) essentially eliminated inhibition by CaM in excised patches. In whole cell patch clamp experiments, this mutation reduced but did not eliminate Ca(2+)-induced inactivation. Providing excess PI(4,5)P(2) reduced the inhibition by CaM in excised patches and in planar lipid bilayers, but PI(4,5)P(2) did not inhibit binding of CaM to the C terminus of the channel. Overall, our data show a complex interplay between CaM and PI(4,5)P(2) and show that Ca(2+), CaM, and the depletion of PI(4,5)P(2) all contribute to inactivation of TRPV6.

Regulation of TRPM8 channel activity

Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8 (TRPM8) is a Ca(2+) permeable non-selective cation channel directly activated by cold temperatures and chemical agonists such as menthol. It is a well established sensor of environmental cold temperatures, found in peripheral sensory neurons, where its activation evokes depolarization and action potentials. The activity of TRPM8 is regulated by a number of cellular signaling pathways, most notably by phosphoinositides and the activation of phospholipase C. This review will summarize current knowledge on the physiological and pathophysiological roles of TRPM8 and its regulation by various intracellular messenger molecules and signaling pathways.

Phosphoinositide sensitivity of ion channels, a functional perspective

Phosphoinositides, especially phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P(2)] are required for the activity of many different ion channels. This chapter will highlight various aspects of this paradigm, by discussing current knowledge on four different ion channel families: inwardly rectifying K(+) (Kir) channels, KCNQ voltage gated K(+) channels, voltage gated Ca(2+) (VGCC) channels and Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels. Our main focus is to discuss functional aspects of this regulation, i.e. how changes in the concentration of PtdIns(4,5)P(2) in the plasma membrane upon phospholipase C activation may modulate the activity of ion channels, and what are the major determinants of this regulation. We also discuss how channels act as coincidence detectors sensing phosphoinositide levels and other signalling molecules. We also briefly discuss the available methods to study phosphoinositide regulation of ion channels, and structural aspects of interaction of ion channel proteins with these phospholipids. Finally, in several cases the effect of PtdIns(4,5)P(2) is more complex than a simple dependence of ion channel activity on the lipid, and we will discuss some these complexities.

Everted gut sac model as a tool in pharmaceutical research: limitations and applications

OBJECTIVES

This review discusses the limitations and applications of the everted gut sac model in studying drug absorption, metabolism, and interaction.

KEY FINDINGS

The mechanism of drug absorption, interaction and the effect of factors such as age, sex, species, chronic therapy, and disease state on drug absorption have been summarized. The experimental conditions and their effects on the outcomes of trials have been discussed also.

SUMMARY

The everted sac model is an efficient tool for studying in-vitro drug absorption mechanisms, intestinal metabolism of drugs, role of transporter in drug absorption, and for investigating the role of intestinal enzymes during drug transport through the intestine.

Intracellular ATP supports TRPV6 activity via lipid kinases and the generation of PtdIns(4,5) P₂

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 (TRPV6) channels play an important role in Ca(2+) absorption in the intestines. Both phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P(2)] and cytoplasmic ATP have been proposed to be important for maintaining TRPV6 activity. To evaluate whether PtdIns(4,5)P(2) and ATP affect channel activity directly or indirectly, we have used a dual approach, examining channel activity in excised patches and planar lipid bilayers. In excised inside-out patch-clamp measurements, ATP reactivated the human TRPV6 channels after current rundown only in the presence of Mg(2+). The effect of MgATP was inhibited by 3 structurally different compounds that inhibit type III phosphatidylinositol 4-kinases (PI4Ks). PtdIns(4,5)P(2) also activated TRPV6 in excised patches, while its precursor PtdIns(4)P had only minimal effect. These data demonstrate that MgATP provides substrate for lipid kinases, allowing the resynthesis of PtdIns(4,5)P(2). To determine whether PtdIns(4,5)P(2) is a direct activator of TRPV6, we purified and reconstituted the channel protein in planar lipid bilayers. The reconstituted channel showed high activity in the presence of PtdIns(4,5)P(2), while PtdIns(4)P induced only minimal activity. Our data establish PtdIns(4,5)P(2) as a direct activator of TRPV6 and demonstrate that intracellular ATP regulates the channel indirectly as a substrate for type III PI4Ks.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels as drug targets for diseases of the digestive system

Approximately 20 of the 30 mammalian transient receptor potential (TRP) channel subunits are expressed by specific neurons and cells within the alimentary canal. They subserve important roles in taste, chemesthesis, mechanosensation, pain and hyperalgesia and contribute to the regulation of gastrointestinal motility, absorptive and secretory processes, blood flow, and mucosal homeostasis. In a cellular perspective, TRP channels operate either as primary detectors of chemical and physical stimuli, as secondary transducers of ionotropic or metabotropic receptors, or as ion transport channels. The polymodal sensory function of TRPA1, TRPM5, TRPM8, TRPP2, TRPV1, TRPV3 and TRPV4 enables the digestive system to survey its physical and chemical environment, which is relevant to all processes of digestion. TRPV5 and TRPV6 as well as TRPM6 and TRPM7 contribute to the absorption of Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺, respectively. TRPM7 participates in intestinal pacemaker activity, and TRPC4 transduces muscarinic acetylcholine receptor activation to smooth muscle contraction. Changes in TRP channel expression or function are associated with a variety of diseases/disorders of the digestive system, notably gastro-esophageal reflux disease, inflammatory bowel disease, pain and hyperalgesia in heartburn, functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome, cholera, hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia, infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, esophageal, gastrointestinal and pancreatic cancer, and polycystic liver disease. These implications identify TRP channels as promising drug targets for the management of a number of gastrointestinal pathologies. As a result, major efforts are put into the development of selective TRP channel agonists and antagonists and the assessment of their therapeutic potential.

TRPV5 and TRPV6 in transcellular Ca(2+) transport: regulation, gene duplication, and polymorphisms in African populations

TRPV5 and TRPV6 are unique members of the TRP super family. They are highly selective for Ca(2+) ions with multiple layers of Ca(2+)-dependent inactivation mechanisms, expressed at the apical membrane of Ca(2+) transporting epithelia, and robustly responsive to 1,25-dihydroxivitamin D(3). These features are well suited for their roles as Ca(2+) entry channels in the first step of transcellular Ca(2+) transport pathways, which are involved in intestinal absorption, renal reabsorption of Ca(2+), placental transfer of Ca(2+) to fetus, and many other processes. While TRPV6 is more broadly expressed in a variety of tissues such as esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, kidney, placenta, pancreas, prostate, uterus, salivary gland, and sweat gland, TRPV5 expression is relatively restricted to the distal convoluted tubule and connecting tubule of the kidney. There is only one TRPV6-like gene in fish and birds in comparison to both TRPV5 and TRPV6 genes in mammals, indicating TRPV5 gene was likely generated from duplication of TRPV6 gene during the evolution of mammals to meet the needs of complex renal function. TRPV5 and TRPV6 are subjected to vigorous regulations under physiological, pathological, and therapeutic conditions. The elevated TRPV6 level in malignant tumors such as prostate and breast cancers makes it a potential therapeutic target. TRPV6, and to a lesser extent TRPV5, exhibit unusually high levels of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in African populations as compared to other populations, indicating TRPV6 gene was under selective pressure during or after humans migrated out of Africa. The SNPs of TRPV6 and TRPV5 likely contribute to the Ca(2+) conservation mechanisms in African populations.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. LXXVI. Current progress in the mammalian TRP ion channel family

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a large family of ion channel proteins, surpassed in number in mammals only by voltage-gated potassium channels. TRP channels are activated and regulated through strikingly diverse mechanisms, making them suitable candidates for cellular sensors. They respond to environmental stimuli such as temperature, pH, osmolarity, pheromones, taste, and plant compounds, and intracellular stimuli such as Ca(2+) and phosphatidylinositol signal transduction pathways. However, it is still largely unknown how TRP channels are activated in vivo. Despite the uncertainties, emerging evidence using TRP channel knockout mice indicates that these channels have broad function in physiology. Here we review the recent progress on the physiology, pharmacology and pathophysiological function of mammalian TRP channels.

Ca2+-dependent desensitization of TRPV2 channels is mediated by hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate

TRPV2 is a member of the transient receptor potential family of ion channels involved in chemical and thermal pain transduction. Unlike the related TRPV1 channel, TRPV2 does not appear to bind either calmodulin or ATP in its N-terminal ankyrin repeat domain. In addition, it does not contain a calmodulin-binding site in the distal C-terminal region, as has been proposed for TRPV1. We have found that TRPV2 channels transiently expressed in F-11 cells undergo Ca(2+)-dependent desensitization, similar to the other TRPVs, suggesting that the mechanism of desensitization may be conserved in the subfamily of TRPV channels. TRPV2 desensitization was not altered in whole-cell recordings in the presence of calmodulin inhibitors or on coexpression of mutant calmodulin but was sensitive to changes in membrane phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)), suggesting a role of membrane PIP(2) in TRPV2 desensitization. Simultaneous confocal imaging and electrophysiological recording of cells expressing TRPV2 and a fluorescent PIP(2)-binding probe demonstrated that TRPV2 desensitization was concomitant with depletion of PIP(2). We conclude that the decrease in PIP(2) levels on channel activation underlies a major component of Ca(2+)-dependent desensitization of TRPV2 and may play a similar role in other TRP channels.

The role of transient receptor potential cation channels in Ca2+ signaling

The 28 mammalian members of the super-family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are cation channels, mostly permeable to both monovalent and divalent cations, and can be subdivided into six main subfamilies: the TRPC (canonical), TRPV (vanilloid), TRPM (melastatin), TRPP (polycystin), TRPML (mucolipin), and the TRPA (ankyrin) groups. TRP channels are widely expressed in a large number of different tissues and cell types, and their biological roles appear to be equally diverse. In general, considered as polymodal cell sensors, they play a much more diverse role than anticipated. Functionally, TRP channels, when activated, cause cell depolarization, which may trigger a plethora of voltage-dependent ion channels. Upon stimulation, Ca2+ permeable TRP channels generate changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]i, by Ca2+ entry via the plasma membrane. However, more and more evidence is arising that TRP channels are also located in intracellular organelles and serve as intracellular Ca2+ release channels. This review focuses on three major tasks of TRP channels: (1) the function of TRP channels as Ca2+ entry channels; (2) the electrogenic actions of TRPs; and (3) TRPs as Ca2+ release channels in intracellular organelles.

Channelopathies linked to plasma membrane phosphoinositides

The plasma membrane phosphoinositide phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) controls the activity of most ion channels tested thus far through direct electrostatic interactions. Mutations in channel proteins that change their apparent affinity to PIP2 can lead to channelopathies. Given the fundamental role that membrane phosphoinositides play in regulating channel activity, it is surprising that only a small number of channelopathies have been linked to phosphoinositides. This review proposes that for channels whose activity is PIP2-dependent and for which mutations can lead to channelopathies, the possibility that the mutations alter channel-PIP2 interactions ought to be tested. Similarly, diseases that are linked to disorders of the phosphoinositide pathway result in altered PIP2 levels. In such cases, it is proposed that the possibility for a concomitant dysregulation of channel activity also ought to be tested. The ever-growing list of ion channels whose activity depends on interactions with PIP2 promises to provide a mechanism by which defects on either the channel protein or the phosphoinositide levels can lead to disease.

Pharmacology of vanilloid transient receptor potential cation channels

Depending on their primary structure, the 28 mammalian transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels identified so far can be sorted into 6 subfamilies: TRPC ("Canonical"), TRPV ("Vanilloid"), TRPM ("Melastatin"), TRPP ("Polycystin"), TRPML ("Mucolipin"), and TRPA ("Ankyrin"). The TRPV subfamily (vanilloid receptors) comprises channels critically involved in nociception and thermosensing (TRPV1, TRPV2, TRPV3, and TRPV4), whereas TRPV5 and TRPV6 are involved in renal Ca(2+) absorption/reabsorption. Apart from TRPV1, the pharmacology of these channels is still insufficiently known. Furthermore, only few small-molecule ligands for non-TRPV1 vanilloid receptors have been identified, and little is known of their endogenous ligands, resulting in a substantial "orphan" state for these channels. In this review, we summarize the pharmacological properties of members of the TRPV subfamily, highlighting the critical issues and challenges facing their "deorphanization" and clinical exploitation.

Phosphoinositide regulation of non-canonical transient receptor potential channels

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, and characterized by diverse activation mechanisms. Phosphoinositides, especially phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PIP(2), or PtdIns(4,5)P(2)] recently emerged as regulators of many TRP channels. Several TRP channels require PIP(2) for activity, and depletion of the lipid inhibits them. For some TRP channels, however, phosphoinositide regulation seems more complex, both activating and inhibitory effects have been reported. This review will discuss phosphoinositide regulation of members of the TRPM (Melastatin), TRPV (Vanilloid), TRPA (Ankyrin) and TRPP (Polycystin) families. Lipid regulation of TRPC (Canonical) channels is discussed elsewhere in this volume.