Phospholamban ablation enhances relaxation in the murine soleus

The Sarcoplasmic Reticulum of Skeletal Muscle Cells: A Labyrinth of Membrane Contact Sites

The sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle cells is a highly ordered structure consisting of an intricate network of tubules and cisternae specialized for regulating Ca2+ homeostasis in the context of muscle contraction. The sarcoplasmic reticulum contains several proteins, some of which support Ca2+ storage and release, while others regulate the formation and maintenance of this highly convoluted organelle and mediate the interaction with other components of the muscle fiber. In this review, some of the main issues concerning the biology of the sarcoplasmic reticulum will be described and discussed; particular attention will be addressed to the structure and function of the two domains of the sarcoplasmic reticulum supporting the excitation-contraction coupling and Ca2+-uptake mechanisms.

Structure-Function Relationships and Modifications of Cardiac Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+-Transport

Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) is a specialized tubular network, which not only maintains the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ at a low level but is also known to release and accumulate Ca2+ for the occurrence of cardiac contraction and relaxation, respectively. This subcellular organelle is composed of several phospholipids and different Ca2+-cycling, Ca2+-binding and regulatory proteins, which work in a coordinated manner to determine its function in cardiomyocytes. Some of the major proteins in the cardiac SR membrane include Ca2+-pump ATPase (SERCA2), Ca2+-release protein (ryanodine receptor), calsequestrin (Ca2+-binding protein) and phospholamban (regulatory protein). The phosphorylation of SR Ca2+-cycling proteins by protein kinase A or Ca2+-calmodulin kinase (directly or indirectly) has been demonstrated to augment SR Ca2+-release and Ca2+-uptake activities and promote cardiac contraction and relaxation functions. The activation of phospholipases and proteases as well as changes in different gene expressions under different pathological conditions have been shown to alter the SR composition and produce Ca2+-handling abnormalities in cardiomyocytes for the development of cardiac dysfunction. The post-translational modifications of SR Ca2+ cycling proteins by processes such as oxidation, nitrosylation, glycosylation, lipidation, acetylation, sumoylation, and O GlcNacylation have also been reported to affect the SR Ca2+ release and uptake activities as well as cardiac contractile activity. The SR function in the heart is also influenced in association with changes in cardiac performance by several hormones including thyroid hormones and adiponectin as well as by exercise-training. On the basis of such observations, it is suggested that both Ca2+-cycling and regulatory proteins in the SR membranes are intimately involved in determining the status of cardiac function and are thus excellent targets for drug development for the treatment of heart disease.

The role of SERCA and sarcolipin in adaptive muscle remodeling

Sarcolipin (SLN) is a small integral membrane protein that regulates the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) pump. When bound to SERCA, SLN reduces the apparent Ca²⁺ affinity of SERCA and uncouples SERCA Ca²⁺ transport from its ATP consumption. As such, SLN plays a direct role in altering skeletal muscle relaxation and energy expenditure. Interestingly, the expression of SLN is dynamic during times of muscle adaptation, where large increases in SLN content are found in response to development, atrophy, overload and disease. Several groups have suggested that increases in SLN, especially in dystrophic muscle, are deleterious to muscle function and exacerbate already abhorrent intracellular Ca²⁺ levels. However, there is also significant evidence to show that increased SLN content is a beneficial adaptive mechanism which protects the SERCA pump and activates Ca²⁺ signaling and adaptive remodeling during times of cell stress. In this review, we first discuss the role for SLN in healthy muscle during both development and overload, where SLN has been shown to activate Ca²⁺ signaling to promote mitochondrial biogenesis, fibre type shifts and muscle hypertrophy. Then, with respect to muscle disease, we summarize the discrepancies in the literature as to whether SLN upregulation is adaptive or maladaptive in nature. This review is the first to offer the concept of SLN hormesis in muscle disease, wherein both too much and too little SLN are detrimental to muscle health. Finally, the underlying mechanisms which activate SLN upregulation are discussed, specifically acknowledging a potential positive feedback loop between SLN and Ca²⁺ signaling molecules.

Phospholamban and sarcolipin prevent thermal inactivation of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases

Na+-K+-ATPase from mice lacking the γ subunit exhibits decreased thermal stability. Phospholamban (PLN) and sarcolipin (SLN) are small homologous proteins that regulate sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases (SERCAs) with properties similar to the γ subunit, through physical interactions with SERCAs. Here, we tested the hypothesis that PLN and SLN may protect against thermal inactivation of SERCAs. HEK-293 cells were co-transfected with different combinations of cDNAs encoding SERCA2a, PLN, a PLN mutant (N34A) that cannot bind to SERCA2a, and SLN. One-half of the cells were heat stressed at 40°C for 1 h (HS), and one-half were maintained at 37°C (CTL) before harvesting the cells and isolating microsomes. Compared with CTL, maximal SERCA activity was reduced by 25-35% following HS in cells that expressed either SERCA2a alone or SERCA2a and mutant PLN (N34A) whereas no change in maximal SERCA2a activity was observed in cells that co-expressed SERCA2a and either PLN or SLN following HS. Increases in SERCA2a carbonyl group content and nitrotyrosine levels that were detected following HS in cells that expressed SERCA2a alone were prevented in cells co-expressing SERCA2a with PLN or SLN, whereas co-expression of SERCA2a with mutant PLN (N34A) only prevented carbonyl group formation. In other experiments using knock-out mice, we found that thermal inactivation of SERCA was increased in cardiac left ventricle samples from Pln-null mice and in diaphragm samples from Sln-null mice, compared with WT littermates. Our results show that both PLN and SLN form a protective interaction with SERCA pumps during HS, preventing nitrosylation and oxidation of SERCA and thus preserving its maximal activity.

The sarcoplasmic reticulum and SERCA: a nexus for muscular adaptive thermogenesis

We are currently facing an "obesity epidemic" worldwide. Promoting inefficient metabolism in muscle represents a potential treatment for obesity and its complications. Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum (SR) Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) pumps in muscle are responsible for maintaining low cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration through the ATP-dependent pumping of Ca²⁺ from the cytosol into the SR lumen. SERCA activity has the potential to be a critical regulator of body mass and adiposity given that it is estimated to contribute upwards of 20% of daily energy expenditure. More interestingly, this fraction can be modified physiologically in the face of stressors, such as ambient temperature and diet, through its physical interaction with several regulators known to inhibit Ca²⁺ uptake and muscle function. In this review, we discuss advances in our understanding of Ca²⁺-cycling thermogenesis within skeletal muscle, focusing on SERCA and its protein regulators, which were thought previously to only modulate muscular contractility. Novelty ATP consumption by SERCA pumps comprises a large proportion of resting energy expenditure in muscle and is dynamically regulated through interactions with small SERCA regulatory proteins. SERCA efficiency correlates significantly with resting metabolism, such that individuals with a higher resting metabolic rate have less energetically efficient SERCA Ca²⁺ pumping in muscle (i.e., lower coupling ratio). Futile Ca²⁺ cycling is a versatile heat generating mechanism utilized by both skeletal muscle and beige fat.

Phospholamban deficiency does not alter skeletal muscle SERCA pumping efficiency or predispose mice to diet-induced obesity

The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA) pump is a major contributor to skeletal muscle Ca²⁺ homeostasis and metabolic rate. SERCA activity can become adaptively uncoupled by its regulator sarcolipin (SLN) to increase the energy demand of Ca²⁺ pumping, preventing excessive obesity and glucose intolerance in mice. Several other SERCA regulators bear structural and functional resemblance to SLN, including phospholamban (PLN). Here, we sought to examine whether endogenous levels of skeletal muscle PLN control SERCA Ca²⁺ pumping efficiency and whole body metabolism. Using PLN-null mice ( Pln^-/-), we found that soleus (SOL) muscle's SERCA pumping efficiency (measured as an apparent coupling ratio: Ca²⁺ uptake/ATP hydrolysis) was unaffected by PLN. Expression of Ca²⁺-handling proteins within the SOL, including SLN, were comparable between Pln^-/- and wild-type (WT) littermates, as were fiber-type characteristics. Not surprisingly then, Pln^-/- mice developed a similar degree of diet-induced obesity and glucose intolerance as WT controls when given a "Western" high-fat diet. Lack of an excessively obesogenic phenotype of Pln^-/- could not be explained by compensation from skeletal muscle SLN or brown adipose tissue uncoupling protein-1 content. In agreement with several other reports, our study lends support to the notion that PLN serves a functionally distinct role from that of SLN in skeletal muscle physiology.

Exacerbation of dystrophic cardiomyopathy by phospholamban deficiency mediated chronically increased cardiac Ca2+ cycling in vivo

Cardiomyopathy is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Membrane instability, leading to intracellular Ca²⁺ mishandling and overload, causes myocyte death and subsequent fibrosis in DMD cardiomyopathy. On a cellular level, cardiac myocytes from mdx mice have dysregulated Ca²⁺ handling, including increased resting Ca²⁺ and slow Ca²⁺ decay, especially evident under stress conditions. Sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ ATPase and its regulatory protein phospholamban (PLN) are potential therapeutic targets for DMD cardiomyopathy owing to their key role in regulating intracellular Ca²⁺ cycling. We tested the hypothesis that enhanced cardiac Ca²⁺ cycling would remediate cardiomyopathy caused by dystrophin deficiency. We used a genetic complementation model approach by crossing dystrophin-deficient mdx mice with PLN knockout (PLNKO) mice [termed double-knockout (DKO) mice]. As expected, adult cardiac myocytes isolated from DKO mice exhibited increased contractility and faster relaxation associated with increased Ca²⁺ transient peak height and faster Ca²⁺ decay rate compared with control mice. However, compared with wild-type, mdx, and PLNKO mice, DKO mice unexpectedly had reduced in vivo systolic and diastolic function as measured by echocardiography. Furthermore, Evans blue dye uptake was increased in DKO hearts compared with control, mdx, and PLNKO hearts, demonstrating increased membrane damage, which subsequently led to increased fibrosis in the DKO myocardium in vivo. In conclusion, despite enhanced intracellular Ca²⁺ handling at the myocyte level, DMD cardiomyopathy was exacerbated owing to unregulated chronic increases in Ca²⁺ cycling in DKO mice in vivo. These findings have potentially important implications for ongoing therapeutic strategies for the dystrophic heart. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study examined the effects of phospholamban ablation on the pathophysiology of cardiomyopathy in dystrophin-deficient mice. In this setting, contractility and Ca²⁺ cycling were enhanced in isolated myocytes; however, in vivo heart function was diminished. Additionally, sarcolemmal integrity was compromised and fibrosis was increased. This is the first study, to our knowledge, examining unregulated Ca²⁺ cycling in the dystrophin-deficient heart. Results from this study have implications for potential therapies targeting Ca²⁺ handling in dystrophic cardiomyopathy. Listen to this article's corresponding podcast at https://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/unregulated-ca2-cycling-exacerbates-dmd-cardiomyopathy/ .

Sarcolipin expression is not required for the mitochondrial enzymatic response to physical activity or diet

In mice, transgenic manipulation of Ca²⁺-handling proteins is sufficient to alter the metabolic phenotype of muscle. We have previously shown that ablation of sarcolipin (SLN), a regulatory protein and uncoupler of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPases, leads to excessive diet-induced obesity and glucose intolerance in mice. However, it is unclear how loss of SLN per se affects muscle oxidative capacity and the ability of mitochondria to adapt to physiological stimuli, such as exercise training or calorie overload. To address this question, Sln^-/- and wild-type (WT) littermates were given access to voluntary running wheels or underwent a treadmill training protocol for 8 wk. Furthermore, a separate group of mice were given a high-fat diet (42% kcal from fat for 8 wk) to determine whether the excessively obese phenotype of Sln^-/- mice is associated with altered oxidative capacity. While voluntary running was insufficient to elicit mitochondrial adaptations, treadmill-trained mice showed significant increases (P < 0.05) in the maximal activities of succinate dehydrogenase (+11%), citrate synthase (+12%), cytochrome oxidase (COX: +17%), along with increased protein expression of cytochrome c (+34%) and COX IV (+28%), which were irrespective of SLN expression. Lastly, no changes in the activities of mitochondrial marker enzymes existed with high-fat feeding, regardless of genotype. Together, these findings indicate that SLN is not required for the regulation of oxidative capacity in response to physiological stress, namely exercise or caloric surfeit.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Sarcolipin (SLN) has gained considerable attention for its uncoupling role of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase (SERCA). Because of SLN's ability to alter both cellular energy use and cytosolic [Ca²⁺], the potential exists for a regulatory role of mitochondrial biogenesis. Herein, we show skeletal muscle oxidative capacity to be unaltered in mice lacking SLN following exercise training or high-fat feeding. Our results contrast with published studies of SLN-overexpressing mice, possibly owing to supraphysiological uncoupling of SERCA.

β-Adrenergic modulation of skeletal muscle contraction: key role of excitation-contraction coupling

Our aim is to describe the acute effects of catecholamines/β-adrenergic agonists on contraction of non-fatigued skeletal muscle in animals and humans, and explain the mechanisms involved. Adrenaline/β-agonists (0.1-30 μm) generally augment peak force across animal species (positive inotropic effect) and abbreviate relaxation of slow-twitch muscles (positive lusitropic effect). A peak force reduction also occurs in slow-twitch muscles in some conditions. β2 -Adrenoceptor stimulation activates distinct cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases to phosphorylate multiple target proteins. β-Agonists modulate sarcolemmal processes (increased resting membrane potential and action potential amplitude) via enhanced Na(+) -K(+) pump and Na(+) -K(+) -2Cl(-) cotransporter function, but this does not increase force. Myofibrillar Ca(2+) sensitivity and maximum Ca(2+) -activated force are unchanged. All force potentiation involves amplified myoplasmic Ca(2+) transients consequent to increased Ca(2+) release from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). This unequivocally requires phosphorylation of SR Ca(2+) release channels/ryanodine receptors (RyR1) which sensitize the Ca(2+) -induced Ca(2+) release mechanism. Enhanced trans-sarcolemmal Ca(2+) influx through phosphorylated voltage-activated Ca(2+) channels contributes to force potentiation in diaphragm and amphibian muscle, but not mammalian limb muscle. Phosphorylation of phospholamban increases SR Ca(2+) pump activity in slow-twitch fibres but does not augment force; this process accelerates relaxation and may depress force. Greater Ca(2+) loading of SR may assist force potentiation in fast-twitch muscle. Some human studies show no significant force potentiation which appears to be related to the β-agonist concentration used. Indeed high-dose β-agonists (∼0.1 μm) enhance SR Ca(2+) -release rates, maximum voluntary contraction strength and peak Wingate power in trained humans. The combined findings can explain how adrenaline/β-agonists influence muscle performance during exercise/stress in humans.

A micropeptide encoded by a putative long noncoding RNA regulates muscle performance

Functional micropeptides can be concealed within RNAs that appear to be noncoding. We discovered a conserved micropeptide, which we named myoregulin (MLN), encoded by a skeletal muscle-specific RNA annotated as a putative long noncoding RNA. MLN shares structural and functional similarity with phospholamban (PLN) and sarcolipin (SLN), which inhibit SERCA, the membrane pump that controls muscle relaxation by regulating Ca(2+) uptake into the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). MLN interacts directly with SERCA and impedes Ca(2+) uptake into the SR. In contrast to PLN and SLN, which are expressed in cardiac and slow skeletal muscle in mice, MLN is robustly expressed in all skeletal muscle. Genetic deletion of MLN in mice enhances Ca(2+) handling in skeletal muscle and improves exercise performance. These findings identify MLN as an important regulator of skeletal muscle physiology and highlight the possibility that additional micropeptides are encoded in the many RNAs currently annotated as noncoding.

β2-adrenergic stimulation enhances Ca2+ release and contractile properties of skeletal muscles, and counteracts exercise-induced reductions in Na+-K+-ATPase Vmax in trained men

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of β2-adrenergic stimulation on skeletal muscle contractile properties, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) rates of Ca(2+) release and uptake, and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity before and after fatiguing exercise in trained men. The study consisted of two experiments (EXP1, n = 10 males, EXP2, n = 20 males), where β2-adrenoceptor agonist (terbutaline) or placebo was randomly administered in double-blinded crossover designs. In EXP1, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of m. quadriceps was measured, followed by exercise to fatigue at 120% of maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2, max ). A muscle biopsy was taken after MVC (non-fatigue) and at time of fatigue. In EXP2, contractile properties of m. quadriceps were measured with electrical stimulations before (non-fatigue) and after two fatiguing 45 s sprints. Non-fatigued MVCs were 6 ± 3 and 6 ± 2% higher (P < 0.05) with terbutaline than placebo in EXP1 and EXP2, respectively. Furthermore, peak twitch force was 11 ± 7% higher (P < 0.01) with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue. After sprints, MVC declined (P < 0.05) to the same levels with terbutaline as placebo, whereas peak twitch force was lower (P < 0.05) and half-relaxation time was prolonged (P < 0.05) with terbutaline. Rates of SR Ca(2+) release and uptake at 400 nm [Ca(2+)] were 15 ± 5 and 14 ± 5% (P < 0.05) higher, respectively, with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue, but declined (P < 0.05) to similar levels at time of fatigue. Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity was unaffected by terbutaline compared with placebo at non-fatigue, but terbutaline counteracted exercise-induced reductions in maximum rate of activity (Vmax) at time of fatigue. In conclusion, increased contractile force induced by β2-adrenergic stimulation is associated with enhanced rate of Ca(2+) release in humans. While β2-adrenergic stimulation elicits positive inotropic and lusitropic effects on non-fatigued m. quadriceps, these effects are blunted when muscles fatigue.

Co-expression of SERCA isoforms, phospholamban and sarcolipin in human skeletal muscle fibers

Sarcolipin (SLN) and phospholamban (PLN) inhibit the activity of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPases (SERCAs) by reducing their apparent affinity for Ca²⁺. A ternary complex between SLN, PLN, and SERCAs results in super-inhibition of SERCA activity. Analysis of skeletal muscle homogenate has limited our current understanding of whether SLN and PLN regulate SERCA1a, SERCA2a, or both in skeletal muscle and whether SLN and PLN are co-expressed in skeletal muscle fibers. Biopsies from human vastus lateralis were analyzed through single fiber Western blotting and immunohisto/fluorescence staining to circumvent this limitation. With a newly generated SLN antibody, we report for the first time that SLN protein is present in human skeletal muscle. Addition of the SLN antibody (50 µg) to vastus lateralis homogenates increased the apparent Ca²⁺ affinity of SERCA (K_Ca, pCa units) (-Ab, 5.85 ± 0.02 vs. +Ab, 5.95 ± 0.02) and maximal SERCA activity (μmol/g protein/min) (-Ab, 122 ± 6.4 vs. +Ab, 159 ± 11) demonstrating a functional interaction between SLN and SERCAs in human vastus lateralis. Specifically, our results suggest that although SLN and PLN may preferentially regulate SERCA1a, and SERCA2a, respectively, physiologically they both may regulate either SERCA isoform. Furthermore, we show that SLN and PLN co-immunoprecipitate in human vastus lateralis homogenate and are simultaneously expressed in 81% of the fibers analyzed with Western blotting which implies that super-inhibition of SERCA may exist in human skeletal muscle. Finally, we demonstrate unequivocally that mouse soleus contains PLN protein suggesting that super-inhibition of SERCA may also be important physiologically in rodent skeletal muscle.

Lost in transgenesis: a user's guide for genetically manipulating the mouse in cardiac research

The advent of modern mouse genetics has benefited many fields of diseased-based research over the past 20 years, none perhaps more profoundly than cardiac biology. Indeed, the heart is now arguably one of the easiest tissues to genetically manipulate, given the availability of an ever-growing tool chest of molecular reagents/promoters and "facilitator" mouse lines. It is now possible to modify the expression of essentially any gene or partial gene product in the mouse heart at any time, either gain or loss of function. This review is designed as a handbook for the nonmouse geneticist and/or junior investigator to permit the successful manipulation of any gene or RNA product in the heart, while avoiding artifacts. In the present review, guidelines, pitfalls, and limitations are presented so that rigorous and appropriate examination of cardiac genotype-phenotype relationships can be performed. This review uses examples from the field to illustrate the vast spectrum of experimental and design details that must be considered when using genetically modified mouse models to study cardiac biology.

Renal Inhibition of Heme Oxygenase-1 Increases Blood Pressure in Angiotensin II-Dependent Hypertension

The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that renal medullary heme oxygenase (HO) acts as a buffer against Ang-II dependent hypertension. To test this hypothesis, renal medullary HO activity was blocked using QC-13, an imidazole-dioxolane HO-1 inhibitor, or SnMP, a classical porphyrin based HO inhibitor. HO inhibitors were infused via IRMI catheters throughout the study starting 3 days prior to implantation of an osmotic minipump which delivered Ang II or saline vehicle. MAP was increased by Ang II infusion and further increased by IRMI infusion of QC-13 or SnMP. MAP averaged 113 ± 3, 120 ± 7, 141 ± 2, 153 ± 2, and 154 ± 3 mmHg in vehicle, vehicle + IRMI QC-13, Ang II, Ang II + IRMI QC-13, and Ang II + IRMI SnMP treated mice, respectively (n = 6). Inhibition of renal medullary HO activity with QC-13 in Ang II infused mice was also associated with a significant increase in superoxide production as well as significant decreases in antioxidant enzymes catalase and MnSOD. These results demonstrate that renal inhibition of HO exacerbates Ang II dependent hypertension through a mechanism which is associated with increases in superoxide production and decreases in antioxidant enzymes.

Effects of salbutamol on the contractile properties of human skeletal muscle before and after fatigue

AIM

The study examined the effects of an oral acute administration of the β2-agonist salbutamol (Sal) (6 mg) vs. placebo on muscle strength and fatigability in 12 non-asthmatic recreational male athletes in a randomized double-blind protocol.

METHODS

Contractile properties of the right quadriceps muscle were measured during electrical stimulations, i.e. twitch, 1-s pulse trains at 20 (P(20) ) and 80 Hz (P(80) ) and during maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) before (PRE) and after (POST) a fatigue-producing protocol set by an electromyostimulation (30 contractions, frequency: 75 Hz, on-off ratio: 6.25-20s). In addition, the level of muscle voluntary activation was measured.

RESULTS

In PRE and POST conditions, the peak torque (PT) of twitch, P(80) and MVIC were not modified by the treatment. The PT in POST P(20) was slightly, although not significantly, less affected by fatigue in Sal compared with placebo condition. Moreover, twitch half-relaxation time at PRE was smaller under Sal than under placebo (P < 0.05). No significant changes in the degree of voluntary activation were observed with Sal treatment in PRE or POST condition.

CONCLUSION

  Although these findings did not exclude completely an effect of Sal on peripheral factors of human skeletal muscle, oral acute administration of the β2-agonist Sal seems to be without any relevant ergogenic effect on muscle contractility and fatigability in non-asthmatic recreational male athletes.

Clenbuterol and formoterol decrease force production in isolated intact mouse skeletal muscle fiber bundles through a beta2-adrenoceptor-independent mechanism

Although the acute actions of short-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonists on force production in isolated mammalian skeletal muscle fibers have been the subject of a number of previous studies, those of long-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonists have never been investigated. Also, little is known about the cellular signal transduction events mediating their actions. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of treatment of mouse fast- and slow-twitch muscle fiber bundles with clenbuterol, formoterol, and salbutamol. Both clenbuterol and salbutamol increased the levels of cAMP in both fiber types, and this effect was reversed by ICI-118551. On the other hand, clenbuterol and formoterol decreased force production in both fiber types. They also increased the phosphorylation of phospholamban and β(2)-adrenoceptors in slow-twitch fiber bundles, and their effects were insensitive to propranolol, ICI-118551, and 14-22 amide. In contrast, salbutamol increased force production in both fiber types. It also increased the phosphorylation of β(2)-adrenoceptors in slow-twitch fibers only, but it had no effect on the phosphorylation of phospholamban in either fiber type. These effects were reversed by propranolol and ICI-118551 but not by 14-22 amide. Instead, 14-22 amide further potentiated the effects of salbutamol on force. In summary, long- and short-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonists have opposite effects on force production in isolated intact mouse skeletal muscle fiber bundles. From these results, we suggest that the acute actions of short-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonists on force production in mammalian skeletal muscles are mediated through the β(2)-adrenoceptor, whereas those of long-acting β(2)-adrenoceptor agonists are not.

Sarcoplasmic reticulum function in smooth muscle

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

Effect of right ventricular versus biventricular pacing on electrical remodeling in the normal heart

BACKGROUND

Biventricular (BIV) pacing can improve cardiac function in heart failure by altering the mechanical and electric substrates. We investigated the effect of BIV versus right ventricular (RV) pacing on the normal heart.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male New Zealand White rabbits (n=33) were divided into 3 groups: sham-operated (control), RV pacing, and BIV pacing groups. Four weeks after surgery, the native QT (P=0.004) interval was significantly shorter in the BIV group compared with the RV or sham-operated groups. Also, compared with rabbits in the RV group, rabbits in the BIV group had shorter RV effective refractory period at all cycle lengths and shorter LV paced QT interval during the drive train of stimuli and close to refractoriness (P<0.001 for all comparisons). Protein expression of the KVLQT1 was significantly increased in the BIV group compared with the RV and control groups, whereas protein expression of SCN5A and connexin43 was significantly decreased in the RV compared with the other study groups. Erg protein expression was significantly increased in both pacing groups compared with the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In this rabbit model, we demonstrate a direct effect of BIV but not RV pacing on shortening the native QT interval as well as the paced QT interval during burst pacing and close to the ventricular effective refractory period. These findings underscore the fact that the effect of BIV pacing is partially mediated through direct electric remodeling and may have implications as to the effect of BIV pacing on arrhythmia incidence and burden.

ATP consumption by sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pumps accounts for 50% of resting metabolic rate in mouse fast and slow twitch skeletal muscle

In this study, we aimed to directly quantify the relative contribution of Ca(2+) cycling to resting metabolic rate in mouse fast-twitch (extensor digitorum longus, EDL) and slow-twitch (soleus) skeletal muscle. Resting oxygen consumption of isolated muscles (Vo(2), microl.g wet wt(-1).s(-1)) measured polarographically at 30 degrees C was approximately 25% higher in soleus (0.61 +/- .03) than in EDL (0.46 +/- .03). To quantify the specific contribution of Ca(2+) cycling to resting metabolic rate, cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a highly specific inhibitor of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPases (SERCAs), was added to the bath at different concentrations (1, 5, 10, and 15 microM). There was a concentration-dependent effect of CPA on Vo(2), with increasing CPA concentrations up to 10 microM resulting in progressively greater reductions in muscle Vo(2). There were no differences between 10 and 15 microM CPA, indicating that 10 microM CPA induces maximal inhibition of SERCAs in isolated muscle preparations. Relative reduction in muscle Vo(2) in response to CPA was nearly identical in EDL (1 microM, 10.6 +/- 3.0%; 5 microM, 33.2 +/- 3.4%; 10 microM, 49.2 +/- 2.9%; 15 microM, 50.9 +/- 2.1%) and soleus (1 microM, 11.2 +/- 1.5%; 5 microM, 37.7 +/- 2.4%; 10 microM, 50.0 +/- 1.3%; 15 microM, 49.9 +/- 1.6%). The results indicate that ATP consumption by SERCAs is responsible for approximately 50% of resting metabolic rate in both mouse fast- and slow-twitch muscles at 30 degrees C. Thus SERCA pumps in skeletal muscle could represent an important control point for energy balance regulation and a potential target for metabolic alterations to oppose obesity.

Pressure-induced renal injury in angiotensin II versus norepinephrine-induced hypertensive rats

The susceptibility to renal perfusion pressure (RPP)-induced renal injury was investigated in angiotensin II (Ang II)- versus norepinephrine (NE)-infused hypertensive rats. To determine the magnitude of RPP-induced injury, Sprague-Dawley rats fed a 4% salt diet were instrumented with a servocontrolled aortic balloon occluder positioned between the renal arteries to maintain RPP to the left kidney at baseline levels whereas the right kidney was exposed to elevated RPP during a 2-week infusion of Ang II IV (25 ng/kg per minute), NE IV (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 microg/kg per minute on days 1, 2, and 3 to 14, respectively), or saline IV (sham rats). Over the 14 days of Ang II infusion, RPP averaged 161.5+/-8.0 mm Hg to uncontrolled kidneys and 121.9+/-2.0 mm Hg to servocontrolled kidneys. In NE-infused rats, RPP averaged 156.3+/-3.0 mm Hg to uncontrolled kidneys and 116.9+/-2.0 mm Hg to servocontrolled kidneys. RPP averaged 111.1+/-1.0 mm Hg to kidneys of sham rats. Interlobular arterial injury and juxtamedullary glomerulosclerosis were largely RPP dependent in both models of hypertension. Superficial cortical glomerulosclerosis was greater and RPP dependent in NE- versus Ang II-infused rats, which was primarily independent of RPP. Outer medullary tubular necrosis and interstitial fibrosis were also primarily RPP dependent in both models of hypertension; however, the magnitude of injury was exacerbated in Ang II-infused rats. We conclude that elevated RPP is the dominant cause of renal injury in both NE- and Ang II-induced hypertensive rats and that underlying neurohumoral factors in these models of hypertension alter the pattern and magnitude of RPP-induced renal injury.

Novel role of fumarate metabolism in dahl-salt sensitive hypertension

In a previous proteomic study, we found dramatic differences in fumarase in the kidney between Dahl salt-sensitive rats and salt-insensitive consomic SS-13(BN) rats. Fumarase catalyzes the conversion between fumarate and l-malate in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Little is known about the pathophysiological significance of fumarate metabolism in cardiovascular and renal functions, including salt-induced hypertension. The fumarase gene is located on the chromosome substituted in the SS-13(BN) rat. Sequencing of fumarase cDNA indicated the presence of lysine at amino acid position 481 in Dahl salt-sensitive rats and glutamic acid in Brown Norway and SS-13(BN) rats. Total fumarase activity was significantly lower in the kidneys of Dahl salt-sensitive rats compared with SS-13(BN) rats, despite an apparent compensatory increase in fumarase abundance in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Intravenous infusion of a fumarate precursor in SS-13(BN) rats resulted in a fumarate excess in the renal medulla comparable to that seen in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. The infusion significantly exacerbated salt-induced hypertension in SS-13(BN) rats (140+/-3 vs125+/-2 mm Hg in vehicle control at day 5 on a 4% NaCl diet; P<0.05). In addition, the fumarate infusion increased renal medullary tissue levels of H2O2. Treatment of cultured human renal epithelial cells with the fumarate precursor also increased cellular levels of H2O2. These data suggest a novel role for fumarate metabolism in salt-induced hypertension and renal medullary oxidative stress.

Minor sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane components that modulate excitation-contraction coupling in striated muscles

In striated muscle, activation of contraction is initiated by membrane depolarisation caused by an action potential, which triggers the release of Ca(2+) stored in the sarcoplasmic reticulum by a process called excitation-contraction coupling. Excitation-contraction coupling occurs via a highly sophisticated supramolecular signalling complex at the junction between the sarcoplasmic reticulum and the transverse tubules. It is generally accepted that the core components of the excitation-contraction coupling machinery are the dihydropyridine receptors, ryanodine receptors and calsequestrin, which serve as voltage sensor, Ca(2+) release channel, and Ca(2+) storage protein, respectively. Nevertheless, a number of additional proteins have been shown to be essential both for the structural formation of the machinery involved in excitation-contraction coupling and for its fine tuning. In this review we discuss the functional role of minor sarcoplasmic reticulum protein components. The definition of their roles in excitation-contraction coupling is important in order to understand how mutations in genes involved in Ca(2+) signalling cause neuromuscular disorders.

Angiotensin II decreases nitric oxide synthase 3 expression via nitric oxide and superoxide in the thick ascending limb

NO produced by NO synthase type 3 (NOS3) in medullary thick ascending limbs (mTHALs) inhibits Cl(-) reabsorption. Acutely, angiotensin II stimulates thick ascending limb NO production. In endothelial cells, NO inhibits NOS3 expression. Therefore, we hypothesized that angiotensin II decreases NOS3 expression via NO in mTHALs. After 24 hours, 10 and 100 nmol/L of angiotensin II decreased NOS3 expression by 23+/-9% (n=6; P<0.05) and 50+/-5% (n=7; P<0.001), respectively, in primary cultures of rat mTHALs. NO synthase inhibition by 4 mmol/L of N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride prevented angiotensin II from decreasing NOS3 expression (Delta=-5+/-8%; n=5). In the presence of N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, the addition of exogenous NO (1 micromol/L spermine NONOate) restored the angiotensin II-induced decreases in NOS3 expression (-22+/-6%; n=7; P<0.013). In addition, NO scavenging with 10 micromol/L of carboxy-PTIO abolished the effect of angiotensin II in NOS3 expression (Delta=-1+/-8% versus carboxy-PTIO alone; n=6). Angiotensin II increases superoxide, and superoxide scavenges NO. Thus, we tested whether scavenging superoxide enhances the angiotensin II-induced reduction in NOS3 expression. Surprisingly, treatment with 100 micromol/L of Tempol, a superoxide dismutase mimetic, blocked the angiotensin II-induced decrease in NOS3 expression (Delta=-3+/-7%; n=6). This effect was not because of increased hydrogen peroxide. We concluded that angiotensin II-induced decreases in NOS3 expression in mTHALs require both NO and superoxide. Decreased NOS3 expression by angiotensin II in mTHALs could contribute to increased salt retention observed in angiotensin II-induced hypertension.

Peptide transporters and their roles in physiological processes and drug disposition

1. The peptide transporters belong to the peptide transporter (PTR) family and serve as integral membrane proteins for the cellular uptake of di- and tripeptides in the organism. By their ability also to transport peptidomimetics and other substrates with therapeutic activities or precursors of pharmacologically active agents, they are of considerable importance in pharmacology. 2. PEPT1 is the low-affinity, high-capacity transporter and is mainly expressed in the small intestine, whereas PEPT2 is the high-affinity, low-capacity transporter and has a broader distribution in the organism. 3. Targeted mouse models have revealed PEPT2 to be the dominant transporter for the reabsorption of di- and tripeptides and its pharmacological substrates in the organism, and for the removal of these substrates from the cerebrospinal fluid. Moreover, the peptide transporters undergo physiological and pharmacological regulation and, of great interest, are present in disease states where PEPT1 exhibits ectopic expression in colonic inflammation. 4. The paper reviews the structural characteristics of the peptide transporters, the structural requirements for substrates, the distribution of the peptide transporters in the organism, and finally their regulation in the organism in healthy and pathological situations.

Catestatin (chromogranin A344-364) is a novel cardiosuppressive agent: inhibition of isoproterenol and endothelin signaling in the frog heart

The catecholamine release-inhibitory catestatin [Cts; human chromogranin (Cg) A(352-372), bovine CgA(344-364)] is a vasoreactive and anti-hypertensive peptide derived from CgA. Using the isolated avascular frog heart as a bioassay, in which the interactions between the endocardial endothelium and the subjacent myocardium can be studied without the confounding effects of the vascular endothelium, we tested the direct cardiotropic effects of bovine Cts and its interaction with beta-adrenergic (isoproterenol, ISO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) signaling. Cts dose-dependently decreased stroke volume and stroke work, with a threshold concentration of 11 nM, approaching the in vivo level of the peptide. Cts reduced contractility by inhibiting phosphorylation of phospholamban (PLN). Furthermore, the Cts effect was abolished by pretreatment with either nitric oxide synthase (N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine) or guanylate cyclase (ODQ) inhibitors, or an ET(B) receptor (ET(BR)) antagonist (BQ-788). Cts also noncompetitively inhibited the positive inotropic action of ISO. In addition, Cts inhibited the positive inotropic effect of ET-1, mediated by ET(A) receptors, and did not alter the negative inotropic ET-1 influence mediated by ET(BR). Cts action through ET(BR) was further suggested when, in the presence of BQ-788, Cts failed to inhibit the positive inotropism of both ISO and ET-1 stimulation and PLN phosphorylation. We concluded that the cardiotropic actions of Cts, including the beta-adrenergic and ET-1 antagonistic effects, support a novel role of this peptide as an autocrine-paracrine modulator of cardiac function, particularly when the stressed heart becomes a preferential target of both adrenergic and ET-1 stimuli.

Renal regional proteomes in young Dahl salt-sensitive rats

We performed an extensive proteomic analysis of the Dahl model of salt-sensitive hypertension. The consomic SS-13(BN) rat, genetically similar to the Dahl salt-sensitive rat, while exhibiting a significant amelioration of salt-induced hypertension, was used as a control. Proteomic analysis, using differential in-gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry techniques, was performed in the renal cortex and the renal medulla of 6-week-old SS and SS-13(BN) rats before significant differences in blood pressure were developed between the 2 strains of rat. Several dozen proteins were identified as differentially expressed between SS and SS-13(BN) rats fed the 0.4% NaCl diet or switched to the 4% NaCl diet for 3 days (n=4). The identified proteins were involved in cellular functions or structures including signal transduction, energy metabolism, and the cytoskeleton. The proteomic analysis and subsequent Western blotting indicated that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K in the renal medulla was upregulated by the 4% NaCl diet in SS-13(BN) rats but downregulated in SS rats. The level of angiotensinogen mRNA in the renal medulla was regulated in an opposite manner. Silencing of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K resulted in an upregulation of angiotensinogen in cultured human kidney cells. In summary, we identified significant differences in kidney regional proteomic profiles between SS and SS-13(BN) rats and demonstrated a potential role of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K in the regulation of angiotensinogen expression in the renal medulla.

Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase expression and signalling in skeletal muscle during exercise

Ca2+ signalling is proposed to play an important role in skeletal muscle function during exercise. Here, we examined the expression of multifunctional Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMK) in human skeletal muscle and show that CaMKII and CaMKK, but not CaMKI or CaMKIV, are expressed. Furthermore, the effect of exercise duration and intensity on skeletal muscle CaMKII activity and phosphorylation of downstream targets was examined. Eight healthy men exercised at approximately 67% of peak pulmonary O2 uptake(VO2peak) with muscle samples taken at rest and after 1, 10, 30, 60 and 90 min of exercise. Ten other men exercised for three consecutive 10 min bouts at 35%, 60% and 85% VO2peak with muscle samples taken at rest, at the end of each interval and 30 min post-exercise. There was a rapid and transient increase in autonomous CaMKII activity and CaMKII phosphorylation at Thr287 in skeletal muscle during exercise. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of phospholamban (PLN) at Thr17, which was identified as a CaMKII substrate in skeletal muscle, was rapidly (< 1 min) increased by exercise, and remained phosphorylated 5-fold above basal level during 90 min of exercise. The phosphorylation of serum response factor at Ser103, a putative CaMKII substrate, was higher after 30 min of exercise. PLN phosphorylation at Thr17 was higher with increasing exercise intensities. These data indicate that CaMKII is the major multifunctional CaMK in skeletal muscle and its activation occurs rapidly and is sustained during continuous exercise, with the activation being greater during intense exercise.

NADPH Oxidase in the Renal Medulla Causes Oxidative Stress and Contributes to Salt-Sensitive Hypertension in Dahl S Rats

Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rats exhibit increased renal medullary oxidative stress and blood pressure salt-sensitivity compared with consomic, salt-resistant SS-13BN rats, despite highly similar genetic backgrounds. The present study examined potential sources of renal medullary superoxide in prehypertensive SS rats fed a 0.4% NaCl diet by assessing activity and protein levels of superoxide producing and scavenging enzymes. Superoxide production was nearly doubled in SS rats compared with SS-13BN rats as determined by urinary 8-isoprostane excretion and renal medullary oxy-ethidium microdialysate levels. Medullary superoxide production in tissue homogenates was greater in SS rats, and the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium preferentially reduced SS levels to those found in SS-13BN rats. Dinitrophenol, a mitochondrial uncoupler, eliminated the remaining superoxide production in both strains, whereas inhibition of xanthine oxidase, NO synthase, and cycloxygenase had no effect. L-arginine, NO synthase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities between SS and SS-13BN rats did not differ. Chronic blood pressure responses to a 4% NaCl diet were then determined in the presence or absence of the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin (3.5 microg/kg per minute), chronically delivered directly into the renal medulla. Apocynin infusion reduced renal medullary interstitial superoxide from 1059+/-130 to 422+/-80 (oxyethidium fluorescence units) and mean arterial pressure from 175+/-4 to 157+/-6 mm Hg in SS rats, whereas no effects on either were observed in the SS-13(BN). We conclude that excess renal medullary superoxide production in SS rats contributes to salt-induced hypertension, and NADPH oxidase is the major source of the excess superoxide.

Sarcolipin and phospholamban mRNA and protein expression in cardiac and skeletal muscle of different species

The widely held view that SLN (sarcolipin) would be the natural inhibitor of SERCA1 (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 1), and PLB (phospholamban) its counterpart for SERCA2 inhibition is oversimplified and partially wrong. The expression of SLN and PLB mRNA and protein relative to SERCA1 or SERCA2 was assessed in ventricle, atrium, soleus and EDL (extensor digitorum longus) of mouse, rat, rabbit and pig. SLN protein levels were quantified by means of Western blotting using what appears to be the first successfully generated antibody directed against SLN. Our data confirm the co-expression of PLB and SERCA2a in cardiac muscle and the very low levels (in pig and rabbit) or the absence (in rat and mouse) of PLB protein in the slow skeletal muscle. In larger animals, the SLN mRNA and protein expression in the soleus and EDL correlates with SERCA1a expression, but, in rodents, SLN mRNA and protein show the highest abundance in the atria, which are devoid of SERCA1. In the rodent atria, SLN could therefore potentially interact with PLB and SERCA2a. No SLN was found in the ventricles of the different species studied, and there was no compensatory SLN up-regulation for the loss of PLB in PLB(-/-) mouse. In addition, we found that SLN expression was down-regulated at the mRNA and protein level in the atria of hypertrophic hearts of SERCA2(b/b) mice. These data suggest that superinhibition of SERCA by PLB-SLN complexes could occur in the atria of the smaller rodents, but not in those of larger animals.

Regulation of the spontaneous contractile activity of the portal vein by the sarcoplasmic reticulum: evidence from the phospholamban gene-ablated mouse

The rapid contraction/relaxation cycles of phasic smooth muscles necessitates intracellular calcium cycling at a more rapid rate than that of tonic smooth muscles. Recent studies suggest that sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium handling is an important determinant of portal vein phasic contractions. We evaluated the importance and role of phospholamban, a protein which inhibits the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium ATPase (SERCA), in regulating the contractility of the phasic mouse portal vein. PLB gene ablation significantly reduced the basal frequency of spontaneous mechanical activity and increased force development of the portal vein. Cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), an inhibitor of SERCA, did not significantly affect the spontaneous activity of the wild-type (WT) portal vein. CPA (1 microM) eliminated the differences in frequency and force between the PLB-KO and WT, localizing the effects to the SR. The PLB-KO portal vein had a lower resting membrane potential than WT controls. There were no significant differences between WT and KO responses to charybdotoxin (250 nM), indicating that calcium-activated potassium channels do not contribute to altered KO portal vein contractility. While contractile sensitivity to acetylcholine was not different between WT and PLB-KO portal veins, force generated in response to a given concentration of acetylcholine was significantly greater in the PLB-KO portal vein, both in the absence and presence of CPA. Our results confirm that SR activity can play a major role in modulating the frequency of the spontaneous mechanical activity of portal veins and removal of PLB inhibition of the SR calcium ATPase has significant effects on the spontaneous activity of the portal vein.

Skeletal muscle lipid accumulation in obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes

In addition to obesity, many factors, including the distribution of body fat, contribute to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Lipid contained within skeletal muscle as triglyceride is a parameter of regional fat accumulation thought to be an important link among obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, even in the pediatric population. Intramuscular triglycerides can also be a fuel source for healthy muscle during periods of physical activity. Thus, the balance between storage and efficient utilization of muscle triglycerides is likely a key to a better understanding of the interaction between dysregulated fat and glucose metabolism by muscle in both adults and children. This review examines the evidence that muscle lipid accumulation is linked with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes of both adults and children. In addition, we explore the potential mechanisms for muscle lipid accumulation as well as the effects of weight loss and physical activity on muscle lipid. Further defining the links between muscle lipid accumulation and insulin action should help develop more effective strategies to prevent or treat type 2 diabetes and other obesity-associated disorders.

Increased cAMP as a positive inotropic factor for mammalian skeletal muscle in vitro

To test the hypothesis that an increased cAMP concentration improves skeletal muscle force development, we stimulated mouse soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) in the presence of isoproterenol (1 x 10(-5) mol.L-1), a beta-adrenergic agonist, or N6,2'-O-dibutyryladenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate (dcAMP) (1 x 10(-3) mol.L-1), a membrane-permeable cAMP analogue. Drugs used in the challenges were dissolved in Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate buffer (Krebs) at 27 degrees C and gassed with 95% O2 - 5% CO2. Stimulation at 50 impulses.s-1 for 0.5 s produced an isometric tetanic contraction. Over 25 min of contractions at 0.6 contractions.min-1, developed force increased significantly with the addition of isoproterenol (soleus, 2.5% +/- 1.1%; EDL, 13.8% +/- 2.0%) or dcAMP (soleus, 2.3% +/- 0.5%; EDL, 10.9% +/- 1.9%) as compared with vehicle controls (cont) with Krebs added (soleus, 0.0% +/- 0.2%; EDL, -2.5% +/- 0.7%). To investigate the role of Ca2+ availability, we amplified or attenuated sarcolemmal L-type Ca2+ channels with Bay K 8644 (Bay K) (5.6 x 10(-6) mol.L-1) or diltiazem hydrochloride (dilt) (10(-4) mol.L-1), respectively. Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum was increased with caffeine (2 x 10(-3) mol.L-1) or decreased with dantrolene sodium (dant) (4.2 x 10(-7) mol.L-1). With Ca2+availability modified, dcAMP addition in soleus significantly increased force development above control (cont, 2.3% +/- 0.4%; Bay K, 4.0% +/- 1.0%; dilt, 52.3% +/- 3.6%; caffeine, 2.3% +/- 0.7%; dant, 6.0% +/- 2.0%; dilt + dant, 55.0% +/- 23.0%). In EDL, the addition of dcAMP also increased force development above control (cont, 13.7% +/- 1.9%; Bay K, 17.0% +/- 4.0%; dilt, 170.0% +/- 40.0%; caffeine, 23.0% +/- 4.0%; dant, 72.0% +/- 10.0%; dilt + dant, 54.0% +/- 14.0%). Thus, a positive inotropic effect of cAMP existed in both fast- and slow-twitch mammalian skeletal muscle with both normal and altered Ca2+ flux into the sarcoplasm.

The Sarcoplasmic Reticulum in Muscle Fatigue and Disease: Role of the Sarco(endo)plasmic Reticulum Ca2+-ATPase

Skeletal muscles induced to contract repeatedly respond with a progressive loss in their ability to generate a target force or power. This condition is known simply as fatigue. Commonly, fatigue may persist for prolonged periods of time, particularly at low activation frequencies, which is called low-frequency fatigue. Failure to activate the contractile apparatus with the appropriate intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]f) signal contributes to fatigue but the precise mechanisms involved are unknown. The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) is the major organelle in muscle that is responsible for the regulation of [Ca2+]f, and numerous studies have shown that SR function, both Ca2+ release and Ca2+ uptake, is impaired following fatiguing contractile activity. The major aim of this review is to provide insight into the various cellular mechanisms underlying the alterations in SR Ca2+ cycling and cytosolic [Ca2+]f that are associated both with the development of fatigue during repeated muscle contraction and with low-frequency or long-lasting fatigue. The primary focus will be on the role of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) in normal muscle function, fatigue, and disease. Key words: calcium release, calcium uptake, muscle relaxation, low-frequency fatigue, Brody disease

Overexpression of phospholamban in slow-twitch skeletal muscle is associated with depressed contractile function and muscle remodeling

The relative amount of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a) and its crucial inhibitor phospholamban (PLN) are closely regulated and play a pivotal role in maintaining muscle function. The functional importance of PLN has been intensively investigated in cardiac muscle. However, little is known about the role of PLN in the slow-twitch skeletal muscle, which expresses a significantly lower level of PLN but a similar level of SERCA2a compared with cardiac muscle. Thus, to define the physiological significance of PLN in slow-twitch skeletal muscle, we generated transgenic mice with PLN-specific overexpression in soleus, which is largely composed of slow-muscle fibers. The PLN protein levels and the PLN/SERCA2a ratio in transgenic soleus were comparable with those in cardiac muscle. Assessment of isometric-twitch contractions indicated that PLN overexpression was associated with depressed rates of contraction and relaxation, which were not linked to reduced SERCA2a abundance, although the levels of other key Ca2+-handling proteins, including ryanodine receptor, FKBP12, and L-type Ca2+ channel, were significantly decreased. However, isoproterenol stimulation reversed the inhibitory effects of PLN on the transgenic soleus twitch kinetics. Furthermore, the PLN-overexpressing soleus had smaller muscle size, mass, and cross-sectional area compared with wild-types. Interestingly, the percentage of slow fibers was increased in PLN-overexpressing soleus. Taken together, these findings indicate that increased PLN expression in slow-twitch skeletal muscle is associated with impaired contractile function and muscle remodeling.

Role of pressure in angiotensin II-induced renal injury: chronic servo-control of renal perfusion pressure in rats

Renal perfusion pressure was servo-controlled chronically in rats to quantify the relative contribution of elevated arterial pressure versus angiotensin II (Ang II) on the induction of renal injury in Ang II-induced hypertension. Sprague-Dawley rats fed a 4% salt diet were administered Ang II for 14 days (25 ng/kg per minute IV; saline only for sham rats), and the renal perfusion pressure to the left kidney was continuously servo-controlled to maintain a normal pressure in that kidney throughout the period of hypertension. An aortic occluder was implanted around the aorta between the two renal arteries and carotid and femoral arterial pressure were measured continuously throughout the experiment to determine uncontrolled and controlled renal perfusion pressure, respectively. Renal perfusion pressure of uncontrolled, controlled, and sham kidneys over the period of Ang II or saline infusion averaged 152.6+/-7.0, 117.4+/-3.5, and 110.7+/-2.2 mm Hg, respectively. The high-pressure uncontrolled kidneys exhibited tubular necrosis and interstitial fibrosis, especially prominent in the outer medullary region. Regional glomerular sclerosis and interlobular artery injury were also pronounced. Controlled kidneys were significantly protected from interlobular artery injury, juxtamedullary glomeruli injury, tubular necrosis, and interstitial fibrosis as determined by comparing the level of injury. Glomerular injury was not prevented in the outer cortex. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta and active NF-kappaB proteins determined by immunohistochemistry were colocalized in the uncontrolled kidney in regions of interstitial fibrosis. We conclude that the preferential juxtamedullary injury found in Ang II hypertension is largely induced by pressure and is probably mediated through the TGF-beta and NF-kappaB pathway.

Disparate roles of AT2 receptors in the renal cortical and medullary circulations of anesthetized rabbits

The contributions of angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors to the control of regional kidney blood flow were determined in pentobarbital-anesthetized rabbits. Intravenous candesartan (AT1 antagonist; 10 microg/kg plus 10 microg x kg(-1) x h(-1)) reduced mean arterial pressure (12%) and increased total renal blood flow (29%) and cortical laser-Doppler flux (18%) but not medullary laser-Doppler flux. Neither intravenous PD123319 (AT2 antagonist; 1 mg/kg plus 1 mg x kg(-1) x h(-1)) nor saline vehicle significantly affected these variables, and the responses to candesartan plus PD123319 were indistinguishable from those of candesartan alone. In vehicle-treated rabbits, renal-arterial infusions of angiotensin II (1 to 25 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1)) and angiotensin III (5 to 125 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1)) dose-dependently reduced renal blood flow (up to 51%) and cortical laser-Doppler flux (up to 50%) but did not significantly affect medullary laser-Doppler flux or arterial pressure. Angiotensin(1-7) (20 to 500 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1)) had similar effects but of lesser magnitude. CGP42112A (20 to 500 ng x kg(-1) x min(-1)) did not significantly affect these variables. After PD123319 administration, angiotensin II and angiotensin III dose-dependently increased medullary laser-Doppler flux (up to 84%), and reductions in renal blood flow in response to angiotensin II were enhanced. Candesartan abolished renal hemodynamic responses to the angiotensin peptides, even when given in combination with PD123319. We conclude that AT2 receptor activation counteracts AT1-mediated vasoconstriction in the renal cortex but also counteracts AT1-mediated vasodilatation in vascular elements controlling medullary perfusion. These mechanisms might have an important effect on the control of medullary perfusion under conditions of activation of the renin-angiotensin system.

Increased renal medullary H2O2 leads to hypertension

We have recently reported that exaggerated oxidative stress in the renal medulla due to superoxide dismutase inhibition resulted in a reduction of renal medullary blood flow and sustained hypertension. The present study tested the hypothesis that selective scavenging of O2*- in the renal medulla would prevent hypertension associated with this exaggerated oxidative stress. An indwelling, aortic catheter was implanted in nonnephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats for daily measurement of arterial blood pressure, and a renal medullary interstitial catheter was implanted for continuous delivery of the superoxide dismutase inhibitor diethyldithiocarbamic acid (DETC, 7.5 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1)) and a chemical superoxide dismutase mimetic, 4-hydroxytetramethyl piperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPOL, 10 mg. kg-1. d-1). Renal medullary interstitial infusion of TEMPOL completely blocked DETC-induced accumulation of O2*- in the renal medulla, as measured by the conversion rate of dihydroethidium to ethidium in the dialysate and by urinary excretion of 8-isoprostanes. However, TEMPOL infusion failed to prevent DETC-induced hypertension, unless catalase (5 mg x kg(-1) d(-1)) was coinfused. Direct infusion of H2O2 into the renal medulla resulted in increases of mean arterial pressure from 115+/-2.5 to 131+/-2.1 mm Hg, which was similar to that observed in rats receiving the medullary infusion of both TEMPOL and DETC. The results indicate that sufficient catalase activity in the renal medulla is a prerequisite for the antihypertensive action of TEMPOL and that accumulated H2O2 in the renal medulla associated with exaggerated oxidative stress might have a hypertensive consequence.

Phospholamban: a crucial regulator of cardiac contractility

Heart failure is a major cause of death and disability. Impairments in blood circulation that accompany heart failure can be traced, in part, to alterations in the activity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump that are induced by its interactions with phospholamban, a reversible inhibitor. If phospholamban becomes superinhibitory or chronically inhibitory, contractility is diminished, inducing dilated cardiomyopathy in mice and humans. In mice, phospholamban seems to encumber an otherwise healthy heart, but humans with a phospholamban-null genotype develop early-onset dilated cardiomyopathy.

Comparable levels of Ca-ATPase inhibition by phospholamban in slow-twitch skeletal and cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum

Alterations in expression levels of phospholamban (PLB) relative to the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca-ATPase have been suggested to underlie defects of calcium regulation in the failing heart and other cardiac pathologies. To understand how variation in PLB expression relative to that of the Ca-ATPase can modulate calcium transport, we have investigated the inhibition of the Ca-ATPase by PLB in native SR membranes from slow-twitch skeletal and cardiac muscle and in reconstituted proteoliposomes. Quantitative immunoblotting in combination with affinity-purified protein standards was used to measure protein concentrations of PLB and of the Ca-ATPase. Functional inhibition of the Ca-ATPase was determined from both the calcium concentrations for half-maximal activation (Ca(1/2)) and the shift in the calcium concentrations following release of PLB inhibition (i.e., (Delta)Ca(1/2)) by incubation with monoclonal antibodies against PLB, which are equivalent to phosphorylation of PLB by cAMP-dependent protein kinase. We report that equivalent levels of PLB inhibition and antibody-induced activation ((Delta)Ca(1/2) = 0.25 +/- 0.02 microM) are observed in SR membranes from slow-twitch skeletal and cardiac muscle, where molar stoichiometries of PLB expressed per Ca-ATPase vary, respectively, from 0.9 +/- 0.1 to 4.1 +/- 0.8. Similar levels of inhibition to those observed in isolated SR vesicles were observed using reconstituted proteoliposomes following co-reconstitution of affinity-purified Ca-ATPase with PLB. These results indicate that total expression levels of one PLB per Ca-ATPase result in full inhibition of the Ca-ATPase and, based on the measured K(D) (140 +/- 30 microM), suggests one PLB complexed with two Ca-ATPase molecules is sufficient for full inhibition of activity. Therefore, the excess PLB expressed in the heart over that required for inhibition suggests a capability for graded responses of the Ca-ATPase activity to endogenous kinases and phosphatases that modulate the level of phosphorylation necessary to relieve inhibition of the Ca-ATPase by PLB.

Angiotensin II constriction of rat vasa recta is partially thromboxane dependent

We tested the hypothesis that thromboxane generation mediates vasoconstriction of isolated outer medullary descending vasa recta (OMDVR) by angiotensin (Ang) II. The lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor eicosatetraynoic acid (1 micromol/L) and the COX inhibitor indomethacin (1 micromol/L) partially reversed Ang II (1 nmol/L) constriction of in vitro perfused OMDVR. To determine whether thromboxane is a mediator of Ang II-induced vasoconstriction, a thromboxane synthase inhibitor, U63577A (1 micromol/L), and thromboxane receptor antagonists, SQ-29548 or BMS-180,291 (1 micromol/L, each), were introduced into the bath of vessels that had been preconstricted by Ang II (1 nmol/L). These agents significantly inhibited vasoconstriction induced by Ang II. In contrast, SQ-29548 and U63557A did not affect vessels preconstricted by raising extracellular KCl from 5 to 100 mmol/L. The thromboxane receptor agonist U46619 (1 micromol/L) constricted OMDVR, an effect that was blocked by the antagonist BMS-180,291. In separate protocols, microperfused OMDVR were pretreated with U63577A or SQ-29548, after which they were exposed to luminal Ang II to induce vasoconstriction. Both agents inhibited vasoconstriction whether preexposure to them was via the bath or the perfusate. We conclude that Ang II-induced constriction of OMDVR is partly mediated by metabolites of arachidonic acid, including thromboxanes.

Tubulovascular Nitric Oxide Crosstalk

Studies were designed to determine the source of NO responsible for buffering of the angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated decrease of blood flow in the renal medulla. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and NO production ([NO]i) of pericytes and endothelium of the vasa recta were independently measured with the use of fura 2-AM and 4,5-diaminofluorescein diacetate (DAF-2DA), respectively, in microtissue strips of the vascular bundles of the outer medullary vasa recta. Disruption of the endothelium of the vasa recta by perfusion with latex microspheres enabled imaging of the pericytes. Ang II (1 micromol/L) produced an increase of [NO]i of 19+/-6 U in pericytes of the vasa recta when the vessels were adjacent to medullary thick ascending limbs (mTALs). Pericytes of isolated vasa recta without surrounding mTALs showed a rapid peak increase in [Ca2+]i of 248+/-107 nmol/L, with a sustained elevation of 107+/-75 nmol/L, but did not show an increase in [NO]i to either Ang II (1 micromol/L) or the Ca2+ ionophore 4-bromo-A23187 (5 micromol/L). These observations indicated the lack of Ang II and Ca2+-sensitive NO production in pericytes of the vasa recta. In isolated vasa recta with intact endothelium, Ang II reduced [Ca2+]i from 128+/-28 to 62+/-13 nmol/L and failed to increase [NO]i. However, the Ca2+ ionophore did increase [NO]i in the endothelium (47+/-8 U), indicating the presence of Ca2+-sensitive NO production. Significant increases of [NO]i were observed in single isolated mTALs in response to both Ang II (33+/-6 U) and the Ca2+ ionophore (51+/-18 U). We conclude that Ang II increases [Ca2+]i in pericytes of the descending vasa recta as part of its constrictor action and that this vasoconstriction is buffered by the NO from the surrounding tubular elements, such as mTALs.

Mechanisms of pressure natriuresis

A central component of the feedback system for long-term control of arterial pressure is the pressure-natriuresis mechanism, whereby increases in renal perfusion pressure lead to decreases in sodium reabsorption and increases in sodium excretion. The specific intrarenal mechanism for the decrease in tubular reabsorption in response to increases in renal perfusion pressure appears to be related to increases in hemodynamic factors such as medullary blood flow and renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure (RIHP), and renal autocoids such as nitric oxide, prostaglandins, kinins, and angiotensin II. Increases in renal perfusion pressure are associated with significant increases in RIHP, nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and kinins, and decreases in angiotensin II. The mechanism whereby RIHP increases in the absence of discernible changes in whole kidney renal blood flow and peritubular capillary hydrostatic and/or oncotic pressures may be related to increases in renal medullary flow as a result of nitric oxide-induced reductions in renal medullary vascular resistance. Several lines of investigation support an important quantitative role for RIHP in mediating pressure natriuresis. Preventing RIHP from increasing in response to increases in renal perfusion pressure markedly attenuates pressure natriuresis. Furthermore, direct increases in RIHP, comparable to increases measured in response to increases in renal perfusion pressure, have been shown to significantly decrease tubular reabsorption of sodium in the proximal tubule and increase sodium excretion. The exact mechanism whereby RIHP influences tubular reabsorption is unknown, but may be related to alterations in tight junctional permeability to sodium in proximal tubules, redistribution of apical sodium transporters, and/or release of renal autacoids such as prostaglandin E2.

Increased renal medullary oxidative stress produces hypertension

The present study examined whether chronic increased oxidative stress within the medulla of the kidney lowers medullary blood flow and leads to hypertension. Optical fibers were implanted into the renal cortex and medulla of uninephrectomized Sprague-Dawley rats (Harlan Sprague-Dawley, Madison, Wis) for the daily measurement of blood flow to these regions using laser-Doppler flowmetry techniques, while arterial pressure was measured from an indwelling aortic catheter. A renal medullary interstitial catheter was implanted for the continuous delivery of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) inhibitor, diethyldithiocarbamic acid (DETC), at a dose of 7.5 mg/kg/d. Renal interstitial superoxide (O(2)(-)) levels were determined by perfusing an O(2)(-) sensitive fluorescent dye, dihydroethidium, through a microdialysis probe implanted into the medulla. Urine samples (24 hours) were collected for measurements of isoprostane excretion. The results indicate that medullary DETC infusions increased tissue O(2)(-) concentrations in the renal medulla (93.4 +/- 22.3,n=8, saline and 867.3 +/- 260.2, n=8, DETC; fluorescence units) and increased urinary 8-isoprostane excretion (4.1 +/- 0.4 ng/d, n=9, saline and 8.8 +/- 1.6 ng/d, n=10, DETC). Mean arterial pressure increased 24 hours after the start of intrarenal DETC infusion and remained nearly 20 mm Hg above control pressure throughout the 5 days of medullary SOD inhibition. During chronic medullary DETC infusion, medullary blood flow was significantly reduced (42.7%), whereas cortical blood flow was unchanged. Intravenous infusion of the same dose of DETC produced no changes in renal medullary or cortical blood flow or arterial blood pressure. The present experiments indicate that an increase in superoxide concentration within the renal medulla selectively reduces medullary blood flow resulting in chronic hypertension.

Evidence that reduced renal medullary nitric oxide synthase activity of dahl s rats enables small elevations of arginine vasopressin to produce sustained hypertension

On the basis of observations supporting the functional importance of nitric oxide (NO) in the regulation of renal medullary function, and a reduced nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzyme activity in the outer medulla of the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS/Mcw) rats, we hypothesized that these inbred rats would have reduced capacity to synthesize renal medullary NO. This reduced capacity would sensitize them to the hypertensive effects of small elevations of circulating arginine vasopressin (AVP). SS/Mcw and Brown Norway (BN/Mcw) rats with implanted arterial and venous catheters were fed a 0.4% salt diet and infused intravenously for 14 days with a subpressor dose of AVP (2 ng/kg per min). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured 2 hours daily in unanesthetized rats maintained in their home cages. MAP in SS/Mcw rats increased during day 1 of AVP infusion from a control level of 127+/-0.9 mm Hg to an average of 147+/-1.6 mm Hg after 14 days. MAP did not return to control values during the 3 days after the end of AVP infusion. BN/Mcw rats showed no changes of MAP during 14 days of AVP infusion (90.4+/-0.6 mm Hg and 92.3+/-0.4 mm Hg). Northern blot analysis of renal tissue from vehicle (saline) -infused rats demonstrated that NOS I and NOS III mRNA expression was significantly less in SS/Mcw rats in the renal outer medulla compared with BN/Mcw rats. We conclude that small, normally subpressor elevations of plasma AVP can produce chronic hypertension in SS/Mcw rats and that this phenomenon is related to the reduced medullary NOS enzyme activity, which in turn reduces the AVP-stimulated NO synthesis.

Renovascular hypertension: structural changes in the renal vasculature

Experimental narrowing of the main renal artery to produce hypertension increases the aorta-glomerular capillary pressure difference and vascular resistance. This article examines the hypothesis that hypertension also may be caused by structural changes that narrow intrarenal blood vessels, similarly increasing preglomerular vascular resistance and the aortic-glomerular capillary pressure gradient. There is evidence of both wall hypertrophy and lumen narrowing of the preglomerular arteries in spontaneously hypertensive rats, with increased preglomerular resistance and aortic-glomerular capillary pressure difference. We have also attempted to induce structural changes in renal-preglomerular vessels experimentally by infusing angiotensin II at low doses (0.5 to 4.5 ng/kg per minute) into the renal artery of Sprague-Dawley rats and greyhound dogs for up to 4 weeks. This angiotensin II infusion produced apparent dose-related effects on preglomerular vessel structure and hypertension. The possibility that hypertension may be induced by structural changes in preglomerular resistance vessel walls, by simulation of the hemodynamic effects of main renal artery stenosis, deserves further investigation.

Variation of phospholamban in slow-twitch muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum between mammalian species and a link to the substrate specificity of endogenous Ca(2+)-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase

Systematic immunological and biochemical studies indicate that the level of expression of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+)-ATPase regulatory protein phospholamban (PLB) in mammalian slow-twitch fibers varies from zero, in the rat, to significant levels in the rabbit, and even higher in humans. The lack of PLB expression in the rat, at the mRNA level, is shown to be exclusive to slow-twitch skeletal muscle, and not to be shared by the heart, thus suggesting a tissue-specific, in addition to a species-specific regulation of PLB. A comparison of sucrose density-purified SR of rat and rabbit slow-twitch muscle, with regard to protein compositional and phosphorylation properties, demonstrates that the biodiversity is two-fold, i.e. (a) in PLB membrane density; and (b) in the ability of membrane-bound Ca(2+)-calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase II to phosphorylate both PLB and SERCA2a (slow-twitch isoform of Ca(2+)-ATPase). The basal phosphorylation state of PLB at Thr-17 in isolated SR vesicles from rabbit slow-twitch muscle, colocalization of CaM K II with PLB and SERCA2a at the same membrane domain, and the divergent subcellular distribution of PKA, taken together, seem to argue for a differential heterogeneity in the regulation of Ca(2+) transport between such muscle and heart muscle.