Characterization and function of Ca(2+)-activated K+ channels in arteriolar muscle cells

Vascular mechanotransduction

This review aims to survey the current state of mechanotransduction in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs), including their sensing of mechanical stimuli and transduction of mechanical signals that result in the acute functional modulation and longer-term transcriptomic and epigenetic regulation of blood vessels. The mechanosensors discussed include ion channels, plasma membrane-associated structures and receptors, and junction proteins. The mechanosignaling pathways presented include the cytoskeleton, integrins, extracellular matrix, and intracellular signaling molecules. These are followed by discussions on mechanical regulation of transcriptome and epigenetics, relevance of mechanotransduction to health and disease, and interactions between VSMCs and ECs. Throughout this review, we offer suggestions for specific topics that require further understanding. In the closing section on conclusions and perspectives, we summarize what is known and point out the need to treat the vasculature as a system, including not only VSMCs and ECs but also the extracellular matrix and other types of cells such as resident macrophages and pericytes, so that we can fully understand the physiology and pathophysiology of the blood vessel as a whole, thus enhancing the comprehension, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular diseases.

Calcium-Dependent Ion Channels and the Regulation of Arteriolar Myogenic Tone

Arterioles in the peripheral microcirculation regulate blood flow to and within tissues and organs, control capillary blood pressure and microvascular fluid exchange, govern peripheral vascular resistance, and contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. These important microvessels display pressure-dependent myogenic tone, the steady state level of contractile activity of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) that sets resting arteriolar internal diameter such that arterioles can both dilate and constrict to meet the blood flow and pressure needs of the tissues and organs that they perfuse. This perspective will focus on the Ca²⁺-dependent ion channels in the plasma and endoplasmic reticulum membranes of arteriolar VSMCs and endothelial cells (ECs) that regulate arteriolar tone. In VSMCs, Ca²⁺-dependent negative feedback regulation of myogenic tone is mediated by Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (BK_Ca) channels and also Ca²⁺-dependent inactivation of voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels (VGCC). Transient receptor potential subfamily M, member 4 channels (TRPM4); Ca²⁺-activated Cl⁻ channels (CaCCs; TMEM16A/ANO1), Ca²⁺-dependent inhibition of voltage-gated K⁺ (K_V) and ATP-sensitive K⁺ (K_ATP) channels; and Ca²⁺-induced-Ca²⁺ release through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP₃Rs) participate in Ca²⁺-dependent positive-feedback regulation of myogenic tone. Calcium release from VSMC ryanodine receptors (RyRs) provide negative-feedback through Ca²⁺-spark-mediated control of BK_Ca channel activity, or positive-feedback regulation in cooperation with IP₃Rs or CaCCs. In some arterioles, VSMC RyRs are silent. In ECs, transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily, member 4 (TRPV4) channels produce Ca²⁺ sparklets that activate IP₃Rs and intermediate and small conductance Ca²⁺ activated K⁺ (IK_Ca and sK_Ca) channels causing membrane hyperpolarization that is conducted to overlying VSMCs producing endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization and vasodilation. Endothelial IP₃Rs produce Ca²⁺ pulsars, Ca²⁺ wavelets, Ca²⁺ waves and increased global Ca²⁺ levels activating EC sK_Ca and IK_Ca channels and causing Ca²⁺-dependent production of endothelial vasodilator autacoids such as NO, prostaglandin I₂ and epoxides of arachidonic acid that mediate negative-feedback regulation of myogenic tone. Thus, Ca²⁺-dependent ion channels importantly contribute to many aspects of the regulation of myogenic tone in arterioles in the microcirculation.

Endothelial KCa 1.1 and KCa 3.1 channels mediate rat intrarenal artery endothelium-derived hyperpolarization response

AIM

Endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH)-mediated response plays an essential role in the control of kidney preglomerular circulation, but the identity of the K⁺ channels involved in this response is still controversial. We hypothesized that large- (K_Ca 1.1), intermediate- (K_Ca 3.1) and small (K_Ca 2.3) -conductance Ca²⁺ -activated K⁺ (K_Ca ) channels are expressed in the endothelium of the preglomerular circulation and participate in the EDH-mediated response.

METHODS

We study the functional expression of different K⁺ channels in non-cultured, freshly isolated native endothelial cells (ECs) of rat intrarenal arteries using immunofluorescence and the patch-clamp technique. We correlate this with vasorelaxant responses ex vivo using wire myography.

RESULTS

Immunofluorescence revealed the expression of K_Ca 1.1, K_Ca 3.1 and K_Ca 2.3 channels in ECs. Under voltage-clamp conditions, acetylcholine induced a marked increase in the outward currents in these cells, sensitive to the blockade of K_Ca 1.1, K_Ca 3.1 and K_Ca 2.3 channels respectively. Isometric myography experiments, under conditions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase inhibition, showed that blockade either of K_Ca 1.1 or K_Ca 3.1 channels was able to reduce the endothelium-derived vasorelaxation of isolated interlobar arteries, while their combined blockade completely abolished it. In contrast, blockade of K_Ca 2.3 channels did not reduce this vasorelaxant response, despite being functionally expressed in the endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that K_Ca 1.1 and K_Ca 3.1 channels are functionally expressed at the renal vascular endothelium and play a central role in the EDH-mediated relaxation of kidney preglomerular arteries, which is important in the control of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate.

The Functional Availability of Arterial Kv7 Channels Is Suppressed Considerably by Large-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels in 2- to 3-Month Old but Not in 10- to 15-Day Old Rats

Background

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, especially Kv7 channels, are major potassium channels identified in vascular smooth muscle cells with a great, albeit differential functional impact in various vessels. Vascular smooth muscle Kv7 channels always coexist with other K channels, in particular with BK channels. BK channels differ in the extent to which they influence vascular contractility. Whether this difference also causes the variability in the functional impact of Kv7 channels is unknown. Therefore, this study addressed the hypothesis that the functional impact of Kv7 channels depends on BK channels.

Experimental Approach

Experiments were performed on young and adult rat gracilis and saphenous arteries using real-time PCR as well as pressure and wire myography.

Key Results

Several subfamily members of Kv7 (KCNQ) and BK channels were expressed in saphenous and gracilis arteries: the highest expression was observed for BKα, BKβ1 and KCNQ4. Arterial contractility was assessed with methoxamine-induced contractions and pressure-induced myogenic responses. In vessels of adult rats, inhibition of Kv7 channels or BK channels by XE991 or IBTX, respectively enhanced arterial contractility to a similar degree, whereas activation of Kv7 channels or BK channels by retigabine or NS19504, respectively reduced arterial contractility to a similar degree. Further, IBTX increased both the contractile effect of XE991 and the anticontractile effect of retigabine, whereas NS19504 reduced the effect of retigabine and impaired the effect of XE991. In vessels of young rats, inhibition of Kv7 channels by XE991 enhanced arterial contractility much stronger than inhibition of BK channels by IBTX, whereas activation of Kv7 by retigabine reduced arterial contractility to a greater extent than activation of BK channels by NS19504. Further, IBTX increased the anticontractile effect of retigabine but not the contractile effect of XE991, whereas NS19504 reduced the effect of retigabine and impaired the effect of XE991.

Conclusion

Kv7 and BK channels are expressed in young and adult rat arteries and function as negative feedback modulators in the regulation of contractility of these arteries. Importantly, BK channels govern the extent of functional impact of Kv7 channels. This effect depends on the relationship between the functional activities of BK and Kv7 channels.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Phenols Dilate the Rat Mesenteric Artery by Activation of BKCa2+ Channels in Smooth Muscle Cells

Accumulating evidence has shown the beneficial health effects of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) consumption in reducing blood pressure and preventing the risk of developing hypertension. Some studies associate the hypotensive activity of EVOO to a minor component—the phenols. This study was designed to investigate the effects of EVOO phenols on the rat resistance mesenteric artery (MA) and to find out the possible vascular pathways involved. The experiments were carried out using a pressurized myograph, which allowed the effects of phenols on isolated MA to be tested under different conditions: (a) with endothelium removed; (b) with inhibition of nitric oxide synthase by N_ω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (l-NAME, 10⁻⁴ M) + N_ω-Nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA, 10⁻⁴ M); (c) with inhibition of cyclooxygenase by indomethacin (10⁻⁵ M); (d) with inhibition of guanylate cyclase by 1H-[1,2,4]Oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ,10⁻⁵ M) or adenylate cyclase by 9-(Tetrahydro-2′-furyl)adenine (SQ, 10⁻⁵ M); (e) with depolarization by high potassium chloride (40 mM); and (f) with inhibition of the large conductance Ca²⁺–potassium channels (BK_Ca2+) with paxilline (10⁻⁵ M). EVOO phenols induce vasodilation of the endothelium, mediated by a direct effect on smooth muscle cells (SMC) by activation of BK_Ca2+ channels, an action by which phenols can regulate the vascular tone of the resistance artery. Phenols can be regarded as bioactive molecules that may contribute to the antihypertensive effects of EVOO.

Voltage-gated Ca2+ channel activity modulates smooth muscle cell calcium waves in hamster cremaster arterioles

Cremaster muscle arteriolar smooth muscle cells (SMCs) display inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor-dependent Ca²⁺ waves that contribute to global myoplasmic Ca²⁺ concentration and myogenic tone. However, the contribution made by voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels (VGCCs) to arteriolar SMC Ca²⁺ waves is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that VGCC activity modulates SMC Ca²⁺ waves in pressurized (80 cmH₂O/59 mmHg, 34°C) hamster cremaster muscle arterioles loaded with Fluo-4 and imaged by confocal microscopy. Removal of extracellular Ca²⁺ dilated arterioles (32 ± 3 to 45 ± 3 μm, n = 15, P < 0.05) and inhibited the occurrence, amplitude, and frequency of Ca²⁺ waves ( n = 15, P < 0.05), indicating dependence of Ca²⁺ waves on Ca²⁺ influx. Blockade of VGCCs with nifedipine (1 μM) or diltiazem (10 μM) or deactivation of VGCCs by hyperpolarization of smooth muscle with the K⁺ channel agonist cromakalim (10 μM) produced similar inhibition of Ca²⁺ waves ( P < 0.05). Conversely, depolarization of SMCs with the K⁺ channel blocker tetraethylammonium (1 mM) constricted arterioles from 26 ± 3 to 14 ± 2 μm ( n = 11, P < 0.05) and increased wave occurrence (9 ± 3 to 16 ± 3 waves/SMC), amplitude (1.6 ± 0.07 to 1.9 ± 0.1), and frequency (0.5 ± 0.1 to 0.9 ± 0.2 Hz, n = 10, P < 0.05), effects that were blocked by nifedipine (1 μM, P < 0.05). Similarly, the VGCC agonist Bay K8644 (5 nM) constricted arterioles from 14 ± 1 to 8 ± 1 μm and increased wave occurrence (3 ± 1 to 10 ± 1 waves/SMC) and frequency (0.2 ± 0.1 to 0.6 ± 0.1 Hz, n = 6, P < 0.05), effects that were unaltered by ryanodine (50 μM, n = 6, P > 0.05). These data support the hypothesis that Ca²⁺ waves in arteriolar SMCs depend, in part, on the activity of VGCCs. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Arterioles that control blood flow to and within skeletal muscle depend on Ca²⁺ influx through voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels and release of Ca²⁺ from internal stores through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in the form of Ca²⁺ waves to maintain pressure-induced smooth muscle tone.

Endothelial-smooth muscle cell interactions in the regulation of vascular tone in skeletal muscle

The SMCs of skeletal muscle arterioles are intricately sensitive to changes in membrane potential. Upon increasing luminal pressure, the SMCs depolarize, thereby opening VDCCs, which leads to contraction. Mechanisms that oppose this myogenic tone can involve voltage-dependent and independent dilator pathways, and can be endothelium-dependent or independent. Of particular interest are the pathways leading to hyperpolarization of SMCs, as these can potentially evoke both local and conducted dilation. This review focuses on three agonists that cause local and conducted dilation in skeletal muscle: ACh, ATP, and KCl. The mechanisms for the release of these agonists during motor nerve stimulation and/or hypoxia, and their actions to open either Ca²⁺ -activated K⁺ channels (K_Ca ) or inwardly rectifying K⁺ channels (K_IR ) are described. By causing local and conducted dilation, each agonist has the ability to improve skeletal muscle blood flow during exercise and ischemia.

BK channels in rat and human pulmonary smooth muscle cells are BKα-β1 functional complexes lacking the oxygen-sensitive stress axis regulated exon insert

A loss of K⁺ efflux in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) contributes to abnormal vasoconstriction and PASMC proliferation during pulmonary hypertension (PH). Activation of high-conductance Ca²⁺-activated (BK) channels represents a therapeutic strategy to restore K⁺ efflux to the affected PASMCs. However, the properties of BK channels in PASMCs-including sensitivity to BK channel openers (BKCOs)-are poorly defined. The goal of this study was to compare the properties of BK channels between PASMCs of normoxic (N) and chronic hypoxic (CH) rats and then explore key findings in human PASMCs. Polymerase chain reaction results revealed that 94.3% of transcripts encoding BKα pore proteins in PASMCs from N rats represent splice variants lacking the stress axis regulated exon insert, which confers oxygen sensitivity. Subsequent patch-clamp recordings from inside-out (I-O) patches confirmed a dense population of BK channels insensitive to hypoxia. The BK channels were highly activated by intracellular Ca²⁺ and the BKCO lithocholate; these responses require BKα-β₁ subunit coupling. PASMCs of CH rats with established PH exhibited a profound overabundance of the dominant oxygen-insensitive BKα variant. Importantly, human BK (hBK) channels in PASMCs from human donor lungs also represented the oxygen-insensitive BKα variant activated by BKCOs. The hBK channels showed significantly enhanced Ca²⁺ sensitivity compared with rat BK channels. We conclude that rat BK and hBK channels in PASMCs are oxygen-insensitive BKα-β₁ complexes highly sensitive to Ca²⁺ and the BKCO lithocholate. BK channels are overexpressed in PASMCs of a rat model of PH and may provide an abundant target for BKCOs designed to restore K⁺ efflux.

Post-contractile BOLD contrast in skeletal muscle at 7 T reveals inter-individual heterogeneity in the physiological responses to muscle contraction

Muscle blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) contrast is greater in magnitude and potentially more influenced by extravascular BOLD mechanisms at 7 T than it is at lower field strengths. Muscle BOLD imaging of muscle contractions at 7 T could, therefore, provide greater or different contrast than at 3 T. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using BOLD imaging at 7 T to assess the physiological responses to in vivo muscle contractions. Thirteen subjects (four females) performed a series of isometric contractions of the calf muscles while being scanned in a Philips Achieva 7 T human imager. Following 2 s maximal isometric plantarflexion contractions, BOLD signal transients ranging from 0.3 to 7.0% of the pre-contraction signal intensity were observed in the soleus muscle. We observed considerable inter-subject variability in both the magnitude and time course of the muscle BOLD signal. A subset of subjects (n = 7) repeated the contraction protocol at two different repetition times (TR : 1000 and 2500 ms) to determine the potential of T1 -related inflow effects on the magnitude of the post-contractile BOLD response. Consistent with previous reports, there was no difference in the magnitude of the responses for the two TR values (3.8 ± 0.9 versus 4.0 ± 0.6% for TR  = 1000 and 2500 ms, respectively; mean ± standard error). These results demonstrate that studies of the muscle BOLD responses to contractions are feasible at 7 T. Compared with studies at lower field strengths, post-contractile 7 T muscle BOLD contrast may afford greater insight into microvascular function and dysfunction.

Arteriolar oxygen reactivity: where is the sensor and what is the mechanism of action?

Arterioles in the peripheral microcirculation are exquisitely sensitive to changes in PO2 in their environment: increases in PO2 cause vasoconstriction while decreases in PO2 result in vasodilatation. However, the cell type that senses O2 (the O2 sensor) and the signalling pathway that couples changes in PO2 to changes in arteriolar tone (the mechanism of action) remain unclear. Many (but not all) ex vivo studies of isolated cannulated resistance arteries and large, first-order arterioles support the hypothesis that these vessels are intrinsically sensitive to PO2 with the smooth muscle, endothelial cells, or red blood cells serving as the O2 sensor. However, in situ studies testing these hypotheses in downstream arterioles have failed to find evidence of intrinsic O2 sensitivity, and instead have supported the idea that extravascular cells sense O2 . Similarly, ex vivo studies of isolated, cannulated resistance arteries and large first-order arterioles support the hypotheses that O2 -dependent inhibition of production of vasodilator cyclooxygenase products or O2 -dependent destruction of nitric oxide mediates O2 reactivity of these upstream vessels. In contrast, most in vivo studies of downstream arterioles have disproved these hypotheses and instead have provided evidence supporting the idea that O2 -dependent production of vasoconstrictors mediates arteriolar O2 reactivity, with significant regional heterogeneity in the specific vasoconstrictor involved. Oxygen-induced vasoconstriction may serve as a protective mechanism to reduce the oxidative burden to which a tissue is exposed, a process that is superimposed on top of the local mechanisms which regulate tissue blood flow to meet a tissue's metabolic demand.

The Human Microcirculation: Regulation of Flow and Beyond

The microcirculation is responsible for orchestrating adjustments in vascular tone to match local tissue perfusion with oxygen demand. Beyond this metabolic dilation, the microvasculature plays a critical role in modulating vascular tone by endothelial release of an unusually diverse family of compounds including nitric oxide, other reactive oxygen species, and arachidonic acid metabolites. Animal models have provided excellent insight into mechanisms of vasoregulation in health and disease. However, there are unique aspects of the human microcirculation that serve as the focus of this review. The concept is put forth that vasculoparenchymal communication is multimodal, with vascular release of nitric oxide eliciting dilation and preserving normal parenchymal function by inhibiting inflammation and proliferation. Likewise, in disease or stress, endothelial release of reactive oxygen species mediates both dilation and parenchymal inflammation leading to cellular dysfunction, thrombosis, and fibrosis. Some pathways responsible for this stress-induced shift in mediator of vasodilation are proposed. This paradigm may help explain why microvascular dysfunction is such a powerful predictor of cardiovascular events and help identify new approaches to treatment and prevention.

Caveolar disruption causes contraction of rat femoral arteries via reduced basal NO release and subsequent closure of BKCa channels

Background and Purpose. Caveolae act as signalling hubs in endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Caveolar disruption by the membrane cholesterol depleting agent methyl-β-cyclodextrin (M-β-CD) has various functional effects on arteries including (i) impairment of endothelium-dependent relaxation, and (ii) alteration of smooth muscle cell (SMC) contraction independently of the endothelium. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of M-β-CD on rat femoral arteries. Methods. Isometric force was measured in rat femoral arteries stimulated to contract with a solution containing 20 mM K(+) and 200 nM Bay K 8644 (20 K/Bay K) or with one containing 80 mM K(+)(80 K). Results. Incubation of arteries with M-β-CD (5 mM, 60 min) increased force in response to 20 K/Bay K but not that induced by 80 K. Application of cholesterol saturated M-β-CD (Ch-MCD, 5 mM, 50 min) reversed the effects of M-β-CD. After mechanical removal of endothelial cells M-β-CD caused only a small enhancement of contractions to 20 K/Bay K. This result suggests M-β-CD acts via altering release of an endothelial-derived vasodilator or vasoconstrictor. When nitric oxide synthase was blocked by pre-incubation of arteries with L-NAME (250 µM) the contraction of arteries to 20 K/Bay K was enhanced, and this effect was abolished by pre-treatment with M-β-CD. This suggests M-β-CD is inhibiting endothelial NO release. Inhibition of large conductance voltage- and Ca(2+)-activated (BKCa) channels with 2 mM TEA(+) or 100 nM Iberiotoxin (IbTX) enhanced 20 K/Bay K contractions. L-NAME attenuated the contractile effect of IbTX, as did endothelial removal. Conclusions. Our results suggest caveolar disruption results in decreased release of endothelial-derived nitric oxide in rat femoral artery, resulting in a reduced contribution of BKCa channels to the smooth muscle cell membrane potential, causing depolarisation and contraction.

Chronic hypoxia in pregnancy affected vascular tone of renal interlobar arteries in the offspring

Hypoxia during pregnancy could affect development of fetuses as well as cardiovascular systems in the offspring. This study was the first to demonstrate the influence and related mechanisms of prenatal hypoxia (PH) on renal interlobar arteries (RIA) in the 5-month-old male rat offspring. Following chronic hypoxia during pregnancy, phenylephrine induced significantly higher pressor responses and greater vasoconstrictions in the offspring. Nitric oxide mediated vessel relaxation was altered in the RIA. Phenylephrine-stimulated free intracellular calcium was significantly higher in the RIA of the PH group. The activity and expression of L-type calcium channel (Cav1.2), not T-type calcium channel (Cav3.2), was up-regulated. The whole-cell currents of calcium channels and the currents of Cav1.2 were increased compared with the control. In addition, the whole-cell K⁺ currents were decreased in the offspring exposed to prenatal hypoxia. Activity of large-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels and the expression of MaxiKα was decreased in the PH group. The results provide new information regarding the influence of prenatal hypoxia on the development of the renal vascular system, and possible underlying cellular and ion channel mechanisms involved.

Large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (BKCa) α-subunit splice variants in resistance arteries from rat cerebral and skeletal muscle vasculature

Previous studies report functional differences in large conductance Ca²⁺ activated-K⁺ channels (BK_Ca) of smooth muscle cells (VSMC) from rat cerebral and cremaster muscle resistance arteries. The present studies aimed to determine if this complexity in BK_Ca activity may, in part, be due to splice variants in the pore-forming α-subunit. BK_Ca variants in the intracellular C terminus of the α-subunit, and their relative expression to total α-subunit, were examined by qPCR. Sequencing of RT-PCR products showed two α-subunit variants, ZERO and STREX, to be identical in cremaster and cerebral arteries. Levels of STREX mRNA expression were, however, significantly higher in cremaster VSMCs (28.9±4.2% of total α-BK_Ca) compared with cerebral vessels (16.5±0.9%). Further, a low level of BK_Ca SS4 α-subunit variant was seen in cerebral arteries, while undetectable in cremaster arteries. Protein biotinylation assays, in expression systems and arterial preparations, were used to determine whether differences in splice variant mRNA expression affect surface membrane/cytosolic location of the channel. In AD-293 and CHO-K1 cells, rat STREX was more likely to be located at the plasma membrane compared to ZERO, although the great majority of channel protein was in the membrane in both cases. Co-expression of β1-BK_Ca subunit with STREX or ZERO did not influence the dominant membrane expression of α-BK_Ca subunits, whereas in the absence of α-BK_Ca, a significant proportion of β1-subunit remained cytosolic. Biotinylation assays of cremaster and cerebral arteries showed that differences in STREX/ZERO expression do not alter membrane/cytosolic distribution of the channel under basal conditions. These data, however, revealed that the amount of α-BK_Ca in cerebral arteries is approximately 20X higher than in cremaster vessels. Thus, the data support the major functional differences in BK_Ca activity in cremaster, as compared to cerebral VSMCs, being related to total α-BK_Ca expression, regardless of differences in splice variant expression.

Transcriptional profiling reveals ductus arteriosus-specific genes that regulate vascular tone

Failure of the ductus arteriosus (DA) to close at birth can lead to serious complications. Conversely, certain profound congenital cardiac malformations require the DA to be patent until corrective surgery can be performed. In each instance, clinicians have a very limited repertoire of therapeutic options at their disposal - indomethacin or ibuprofen to close a patent DA (PDA) and prostaglandin E1 to maintain patency of the DA. Neither treatment is specific to the DA and both may have deleterious off-target effects. Therefore, more therapeutic options specifically targeted to the DA should be considered. We hypothesized the DA possesses a unique genetic signature that would set it apart from other vessels. A microarray was used to compare the genetic profiles of the murine DA and ascending aorta (AO). Over 4,000 genes were differentially expressed between these vessels including a subset of ion channel-related genes. Specifically, the alpha and beta subunits of large-conductance calcium-activated potassium (BKCa) channels are enriched in the DA. Gain- and loss-of-function studies showed inhibition of BKCa channels caused the DA to constrict, while activation caused DA relaxation even in the presence of O2. This study identifies subsets of genes that are enriched in the DA that may be used to develop DA-specific drugs. Ion channels that regulate DA tone, including BKCa channels, are promising targets. Specifically, BKCa channel agonists like NS1619 maintain DA patency even in the presence of O2 and may be clinically useful.

Aging increases capacitance and spontaneous transient outward current amplitude of smooth muscle cells from murine superior epigastric arteries

Large conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BKCa) contribute to negative feedback regulation of smooth muscle cell (SMC) tone. However, the effects of aging on BKCa function are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that aging alters SMC BKCa function in superior epigastric arteries (SEAs) by using perforated patch recording of enzymatically isolated SMCs from 3- to 4-mo-old male C57BL/6 mice (Young) and 24- to 26-mo-old male C57BL/6 mice (Old). SMC capacitance from Young (15.7 ± 0.4 pF; n = 110) was less than Old (17.9 ± 0.5 pF; n = 104) (P < 0.05). SMCs displayed spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs) at membrane potentials more positive than -30 mV; depolarization increased STOC amplitude and frequency (P < 0.05; n = 19-24). STOC frequency in Young (2.2 ± 0.6 Hz) was less than Old (4.2 ± 0.7 Hz) at -10 mV (P < 0.05, n = 27-30), with no difference in amplitude (1.0 ± 0.1 vs. 0.9 ± 0.1 pA/pF, respectively). At +30 mV, STOC amplitude in Young (3.2 ± 0.3 pA/pF) was less than Old (5.0 ± 0.5 pA/pF; P < 0.05, n = 61-67) with no difference in frequency (3.9 ± 0.4 vs. 3.2 ± 0.3 Hz, respectively). BKCa blockers (1 μM paxilline, 100 nM iberiotoxin, 1 mM tetraethylammonium) or a ryanodine receptor antagonist (100 μM tetracaine) inhibited STOCs (n ≥ 6; P < 0.05 each). Western blots revealed increased expression of BKCa α-subunit protein in Old. Pressure myography revealed no effect of age on SEA maximal diameter, myogenic tone, or paxilline-induced constriction (n = 10-12; P > 0.05). Enhanced functional expression of SMC BKCa-dependent STOCs in Old may represent an adaptation of resistance arteries to maintain functional integrity.

Enhanced large conductance K+ channel activity contributes to the impaired myogenic response in the cerebral vasculature of Fawn Hooded Hypertensive rats

Recent studies have indicated that the myogenic response (MR) in cerebral arteries is impaired in Fawn Hooded Hypertensive (FHH) rats and that transfer of a 2.4 megabase pair region of chromosome 1 (RNO1) containing 15 genes from the Brown Norway rat into the FHH genetic background restores MR in a FHH.1(BN) congenic strain. However, the mechanisms involved remain to be determined. The present study examined the role of the large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channel in impairing the MR in FHH rats. Whole-cell patch-clamp studies of cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) revealed that iberiotoxin (IBTX; BK inhibitor)-sensitive outward potassium (K+) channel current densities are four- to fivefold greater in FHH than in FHH.1(BN) congenic strain. Inside-out patches indicated that the BK channel open probability (NPo) is 10-fold higher and IBTX reduced NPo to a greater extent in VSMCs isolated from FHH than in FHH.1(BN) rats. Voltage sensitivity of the BK channel is enhanced in FHH as compared with FHH.1(BN) rats. The frequency and amplitude of spontaneous transient outward currents are significantly greater in VSMCs isolated from FHH than in FHH.1(BN) rats. However, the expression of the BK-α and -β-subunit proteins in cerebral vessels as determined by Western blot is similar between the two groups. Middle cerebral arteries (MCAs) isolated from FHH rats exhibited an impaired MR, and administration of IBTX restored this response. These results indicate that there is a gene on RNO1 that impairs MR in the MCAs of FHH rats by enhancing BK channel activity.

Mechanisms underlying regional differences in the Ca2+ sensitivity of BK(Ca) current in arteriolar smooth muscle

Abstract  β1-Subunits enhance the gating properties of large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BKCa) formed by α-subunits. In arterial vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), β1-subunits are vital in coupling SR-generated Ca(2+) sparks to BKCa activation, affecting contractility and blood pressure. Studies in cremaster and cerebral VSMCs show heterogeneity of BKCa activity due to apparent differences in the functional β1-subunit:α-subunit ratio. To define these differences, studies were conducted at the single-channel level while siRNA was used to manipulate specific subunit expression. β1 modulation of the α-subunit Ca(2+) sensitivity was studied using patch-clamp techniques. BKCa channel normalized open probability (NPo) versus membrane potential (Vm) curves were more left-shifted in cerebral versus cremaster VSMCs as cytoplasmic Ca(2+) was raised from 0.5 to 100 μm. Calculated V1/2 values of channel activation decreased from 72.0 ± 6.1 at 0.5 μm Ca(2+)i to -89 ± 9 mV at 100 μm Ca(2+)i in cerebral compared with 101 ± 10 to -63 ± 7 mV in cremaster VSMCs. Cremaster BKCa channels thus demonstrated an ∼2.5-fold weaker apparent Ca(2+) sensitivity such that at a value of Vm of -30 mV, a mean value of [Ca(2+)]i of 39 μm was required to open half of the channels in cremaster versus 16 μm [Ca(2+)]i in cerebral VSMCs. Further, shortened mean open and longer mean closed times were evident in BKCa channel events from cremaster VSMCs at either -30 or 30 mV at any given [Ca(2+)]. β1-Subunit-directed siRNA decreased both the apparent Ca(2+) sensitivity of BKCa in cerebral VSMCs and the appearance of spontaneous transient outward currents. The data are consistent with a higher ratio of β1-subunit:α-subunit of BKCa channels in cerebral compared with cremaster VSMCs. Functionally, this leads both to higher Ca(2+) sensitivity and NPo for BKCa channels in the cerebral vasculature relative to that of skeletal muscle.

BK potassium channel modulation by leucine-rich repeat-containing proteins

Molecular diversity of ion channel structure and function underlies variability in electrical signaling in nerve, muscle, and nonexcitable cells. Regulation by variable auxiliary subunits is a major mechanism to generate tissue- or cell-specific diversity of ion channel function. Mammalian large-conductance, voltage- and calcium-activated potassium channels (BK, K(Ca)1.1) are ubiquitously expressed with diverse functions in different tissues or cell types, consisting of the pore-forming, voltage- and Ca(2+)-sensing α-subunits (BKα), either alone or together with the tissue-specific auxiliary β-subunits (β1-β4). We recently identified a leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-containing membrane protein, LRRC26, as a BK channel auxiliary subunit, which causes an unprecedented large negative shift (∼140 mV) in voltage dependence of channel activation. Here we report a group of LRRC26 paralogous proteins, LRRC52, LRRC55, and LRRC38 that potentially function as LRRC26-type auxiliary subunits of BK channels. LRRC52, LRRC55, and LRRC38 produce a marked shift in the BK channel's voltage dependence of activation in the hyperpolarizing direction by ∼100 mV, 50 mV, and 20 mV, respectively, in the absence of calcium. They along with LRRC26 show distinct expression in different human tissues: LRRC26 and LRRC38 mainly in secretory glands, LRRC52 in testis, and LRRC55 in brain. LRRC26 and its paralogs are structurally and functionally distinct from the β-subunits and we designate them as a γ family of the BK channel auxiliary proteins, which potentially regulate the channel's gating properties over a spectrum of different tissues or cell types.

Role of vascular potassium channels in the regulation of renal hemodynamics

K+ conductance is a major determinant of membrane potential ( Vm) in vascular smooth muscle (VSMC) and endothelial cells (EC). The vascular tone is controlled by Vm through the action of voltage-operated Ca2+ channels (VOCC) in VSMC. Increased K+ conductance leads to hyperpolarization and vasodilation, while inactivation of K+ channels causes depolarization and vasoconstriction. K+ channels in EC indirectly participate in the control of vascular tone by several mechanisms, e.g., release of nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor. In the kidney, a change in the activity of one or more classes of K+ channels will lead to a change in hemodynamic resistance and therefore of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration pressure. Through these effects, the activity of renal vascular K+ channels influences renal salt and water excretion, fluid homeostasis, and ultimately blood pressure. Four main classes of K+ channels [calcium activated (KCa), inward rectifier (Kir), voltage activated (KV), and ATP sensitive (KATP)] are found in the renal vasculature. Several in vitro experiments have suggested a role for individual classes of K+ channels in the regulation of renal vascular function. Results from in vivo experiments are sparse. We discuss the role of the different classes of renal vascular K+ channels and their possible role in the integrated function of the renal microvasculature. Since several pathological conditions, among them hypertension, are associated with alterations in K+ channel function, the role of renal vascular K+ channels in the control of salt and water excretion deserves attention.

Electrophysiological and contractile evidence of the ability of human mesenchymal stromal cells to correct vascular malfunction in rats after ionizing irradiation

The effect of intravenous administration of human mesenchymal stromal stem cells (hMSC) has been evaluated by means of large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium channel (BK(Ca)) activity measurements in thoracic aorta smooth muscle cells (SMC) obtained from non-fatal whole-body irradiated rats, using the patch clamp technique in whole-cell modification, and the standard acetylcholine (ACh) test to evaluate functional endothelium integrity using SM contractile recordings. Myofilament calcium sensitivity was estimated using simultaneous contractile recordings versus [Ca(2+)](i). Arterial blood was measured in intact and irradiated rats before and after hMSC administration. Stimulation of isolated SMC from the control group of animals with depolarizing voltage steps showed that outward K(+) currents sensitive to the BK(Ca) inhibitor paxilline were expressed. Outward currents in SMC obtained from irradiated animals were significantly reduced on the 30th day of post-irradiation. Irradiation led to a significant elevation in arterial blood pressure and reduced ACh-induced relaxation responses in irradiated rats as compared with the control group. Simultaneous measurements of contractile force and [Ca(2+)](i) showed that myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity had increased following irradiation. Intravenously injected hMSC effectively restored BK(Ca) current and the amplitude of ACh-induced endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in vascular tissues obtained from post-irradiated rats. SMC obtained from irradiated rats treated with hMSC demonstrated a significantly increased paxilline-sensitive component of outward potassium currents, indicating that BK(Ca) activity had been restored. hMSC administration normalized increased blood pressure and myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity in irradiated animals. When administered to healthy rats, hMSC were without effects on either of these. This study does not provide any immunohistochemical proof of hMSC engraftment in the host rats. PCR analysis showed that hMSCs were negative for hematopoietic cell markers and positive for hMSC markers. There were no clinical signs of graft-versus-host disease throughout the experimental period of 30 days. The data obtained suggest that hMSC demonstrate a clearly expressed ability to normalize vascular function damaged following irradiation, i.e. to reduce an elevated arterial blood pressure and myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity, and to repair BK(Ca) function and endothelium-dependent relaxation in vascular tissues obtained from irradiated animals. Thus, hMSC seem to be worthwhile therapeutic approach in cases of ionizing irradiation accident or radiation beam therapy.

Large conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa) and arteriolar myogenic signaling

Myogenic, or pressure-induced, vasoconstriction is critical for local blood flow autoregulation. Underlying this vascular smooth muscle (VSM) response are events including membrane depolarization, Ca(2+) entry and mobilization, and activation of contractile proteins. Large conductance, Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel (BK(Ca)) has been implicated in several of these steps including, (1) channel closure causing membrane depolarization, and (2) channel opening causing hyperpolarization to oppose excessive pressure-induced vasoconstriction. As multiple mechanisms regulate BK(Ca) activity (subunit composition, membrane potential (Em) and Ca(2+) levels, post-translational modification) tissue level diversity is predicted. Importantly, heterogeneity in BK(Ca) channel activity may contribute to tissue-specific differences in regulation of myogenic vasoconstriction, allowing local hemodynamics to be matched to metabolic requirements. Knowledge of such variability will be important to exploiting the BK(Ca) channel as a therapeutic target and understanding systemic effects of its pharmacological manipulation.

Site-specific connexin phosphorylation is associated with reduced heterocellular communication between smooth muscle and endothelium

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Myoendothelial junctions (MEJs) represent a specialized signaling domain between vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and endothelial cells (EC). The functional consequences of phosphorylation state of the connexins (Cx) at the MEJ have not been explored.

METHODS/RESULTS

Application of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate sodium (pCPT) to mouse cremasteric arterioles reduces the detection of connexin 43 (Cx43) phosphorylated at its carboxyl terminal serine 368 site (S368) at the MEJ in vivo. After single-cell microinjection of a VSMC in mouse cremaster arterioles, only in the presence of pCPT was dye transfer to EC observed. We used a vascular cell co-culture (VCCC) and applied the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (PMA) or fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) to induce phosphorylation of Cx43 S368. This phosphorylation event was associated with a significant reduction in dye transfer and calcium communication. Using a novel method to monitor increases in intracellular calcium across the in vitro MEJ, we noted that PMA and FGF-2 both inhibited movement of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP(3)), but to a lesser extent Ca(2+).

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that site-specific connexin phosphorylation at the MEJ can potentially regulate the movement of solutes between EC and VSMC in the vessel wall.

Heterogeneity in function of small artery smooth muscle BKCa: involvement of the beta1-subunit

Arteriolar myogenic vasoconstriction occurs when increased stretch or membrane tension leads to smooth muscle cell depolarization and opening of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. To prevent positive feedback and excessive pressure-induced vasoconstriction, studies in cerebral artery smooth muscle have suggested that activation of large conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa) provides an opposing hyperpolarizing influence reducing Ca2+ channel activity. We have hypothesized that this mechanism may not equally apply to all vascular beds. To establish the existence of such heterogeneity in vascular reactivity, studies were performed on rat vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells from cremaster muscle arterioles and cerebral arteries. Whole cell K+ currents were determined at pipette [Ca2+] of 100 nM or 5 microM in the presence and absence of the BKCa inhibitor, iberiotoxin (IBTX; 0.1 microM). Similar outward current densities were observed for the two cell preparations at the lower pipette Ca2+ levels. At 5 microM Ca2+, cremaster VSM showed a significantly (P < 0.05) lower current density compared to cerebral VSM (34.5 +/- 1.9 vs 45.5 +/- 1.7 pA pF(-1) at +70 mV). Studies with IBTX suggested that the differences in K+ conductance at 5 microM intracellular [Ca2+] were largely due to activity of BKCa. 17beta-Oestradiol (1 microM), reported to potentiate BKCa current via the channel's beta-subunit, caused a greater effect on whole cell K+ currents in cerebral vessel smooth muscle cells (SMCs) compared to those of cremaster muscle. In contrast, the alpha-subunit-selective BKCa opener, NS-1619 (20 microM), exerted a similar effect in both preparations. Spontaneously transient outward currents (STOCs) were more apparent (frequency and amplitude) and occurred at more negative membrane potentials in cerebral compared to cremaster SMCs. Also consistent with decreased STOC activity in cremaster SMCs was an absence of detectable Ca2+ sparks (0 of 76 cells) compared to that in cerebral SMCs (76 of 105 cells). Quantitative PCR showed decreased mRNA expression for the beta1 subunit and a decrease in the beta1:alpha ratio in cremaster arterioles compared to cerebral vessels. Similarly, cremaster arterioles showed a decrease in total BKCa protein and the beta1:alpha-subunit ratio. The data support vascular heterogeneity with respect to the activity of BKCa in terms of both beta-subunit regulation and interaction with SR-mediated Ca2+ signalling.

Potentiation of large conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels by alpha5beta1 integrin activation in arteriolar smooth muscle

Injury/degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is associated with vascular wall remodelling and impaired reactivity, a process in which altered ECM-integrin interactions play key roles. Previously, we found that peptides containing the RGD integrin-binding sequence produce sustained vasodilatation of rat skeletal muscle arterioles. Here, we tested the hypothesis that RGD ligands work through alpha5beta1 integrin to modulate the activity of large conductance, Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK) channels in arteriolar smooth muscle. K(+) currents were recorded in single arteriolar myocytes using whole-cell and single-channel patch clamp methods. Activation of alpha5beta1 integrin by an appropriate, insoluble alpha5beta1 antibody resulted in a 30-50% increase in the amplitude of iberiotoxin (IBTX)-sensitive, whole-cell K(+) current. Current potentiation occurred 1-8 min after bead-antibody application to the cell surface. Similarly, the endogenous alpha5beta1 integrin ligand fibronectin (FN) potentiated IBTX-sensitive K(+) current by 26%. Current potentiation was blocked by the c-Src inhibitor PP2 but not by PP3 (0.1-1 mum). In cell-attached patches, number of open channels x open probability (NP(o)) of a 230-250 pS K(+) channel was significantly increased after FN application locally to the external surface of cell-attached patches through the recording pipette. In excised, inside-out patches, the same method of FN application led to large, significant increases in NP(o) and caused a leftward shift in the NP(o)-voltage relationship at constant [Ca(2+)]. PP2 (but not PP3) nearly abolished the effect of FN on channel activity, suggesting that signalling between the integrin and channel involved an increase in Ca(2+)sensitivity of the channel via a membrane-delimited pathway. The effects of alpha5beta1 integrin activation on both whole-cell and single-channel BK currents could be reproduced in HEK 293 cells expressing the BK channel alpha-subunit. This is the first demonstration at the single-channel level that integrin signalling can regulate an ion channel. Our results show that alpha5beta1 integrin activation potentiates BK channel activity in vascular smooth muscle through both Ca(2+)- and c-Src-dependent mechanisms. This mechanism is likely to play a role in the arteriolar dilatation and impaired vascular reactivity associated with ECM degradation.

Analysis of L-NAME-dependent and -resistant responses to acetylcholine in the rat

The mechanism by which acetylcholine (ACh) decreases systemic arterial pressure and hindlimb vascular resistance was investigated in the anesthetized rat. ACh injections caused dose-dependent decreases in systemic arterial pressure and hindlimb vascular resistance. N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) had little effect on the magnitude of depressor and vasodilator responses but decreased response duration when baseline parameters were corrected by a nitric oxide (NO) donor infusion. The decrease in the duration of the ACh depressor response was prevented by the administration of excess L-arginine. The L-NAME-resistant component of the depressor response to ACh was attenuated by ebselen, a glutathione peroxidase mimic. The calcium-activated potassium (K(Ca)) antagonists charybdotoxin (ChTX) and apamin decreased the magnitude but not the duration of the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh. The combination of L-NAME, ChTX, and apamin reduced the magnitude and duration of the vasodilator response to ACh but not to sodium nitroprusside. Vasodepressor and hindlimb vasodilator responses to ACh were not modified by cytochrome P-450 and cyclooxygenase pathway inhibitors. These results suggest that the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh has an initial L-NAME-resistant component mediated by the activation of K(Ca) channels and a sustained L-NAME-dependent component. The results with ebselen suggest that the L-NAME-resistant component of the depressor response involves a peroxide-sensitive mechanism. The present study suggests that vasodilator responses to ACh are not mediated by cytochrome P-450 products, since miconazole and 1-aminobentriazole alone or in combination did not affect either component of the response. The present data suggest that the hindlimb vasodilator response to ACh in the rat is mediated by two mechanisms with an initial ChTX- and apamin-sensitive, L-NAME-resistant phase not mediated by cytochrome P-450 products and a secondary sustained phase mediated by NO.

High dietary salt reduces the contribution of 20-HETE to arteriolar oxygen responsiveness in skeletal muscle

The coupling of tissue blood flow to cellular metabolic demand involves oxygen-dependent adjustments in arteriolar tone, and arteriolar responses to oxygen can be mediated, in part, by changes in local production of 20-HETE. In this study, we examined the long-term effect of dietary salt on arteriolar oxygen responsiveness in the exteriorized, superfused rat spinotrapezius muscle and the role of 20-HETE in this responsiveness. Rats were fed either a normal-salt (NS, 0.45%) or high-salt (HS, 4%) diet for 4–5 wk. There was no difference in steady-state tissue Po2 between NS and HS rats, and elevation of superfusate oxygen content from 0% to 10% caused tissue Po2 to increase by the same amount in both groups. However, the resulting reductions in arteriolar diameter and blood flow were less in HS rats than NS rats. Inhibition of 20-HETE formation with N-methylsulfonyl-12,12-dibromododec-11-enamide (DDMS) or 17-octadecynoic acid (17-ODYA) attenuated oxygen-induced constriction in NS rats but not HS rats. Exogenous 20-HETE elicited arteriolar constriction that was greatly reduced by the large-conductance Ca2+-activated potassium (KCa) channel inhibitors tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA) and iberiotoxin (IbTx) in NS rats and a smaller constriction that was less sensitive to TEA or IbTx in HS rats. Arteriolar responses to exogenous angiotensin II were similar in both groups but more sensitive to inhibition with DDMS in NS rats. Norepinephrine-induced arteriolar constriction was similar and insensitive to DDMS in both groups. We conclude that 20-HETE contributes to oxygen-induced constriction of skeletal muscle arterioles via inhibition of KCa channels and that a high-salt diet impairs arteriolar responses to increased oxygen availability due to a reduction in vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to 20-HETE.

Renovascular BKCachannels are not activated in vivo under resting conditions and during agonist stimulation

We investigated the role of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+(BKCa) channels for the basal renal vascular tone in vivo. Furthermore, the possible buffering by BKCaof the vasoconstriction elicited by angiotensin II (ANG II) or norepinephrine (NE) was investigated. The possible activation of renal vascular BKCachannels by cAMP was investigated by infusing forskolin. Renal blood flow (RBF) was measured in vivo using electromagnetic flowmetry or ultrasonic Doppler. Renal preinfusion of tetraethylammonium (TEA; 3.0 μmol/min) caused a small reduction of baseline RBF, but iberiotoxin (IBT; 0.3 nmol/min) did not have any effect. Renal injection of ANG II (1–4 ng) or NE (10–40 ng) produced a transient decrease in RBF. These responses were not affected by preinfusion of TEA or IBT. Renal infusion of the BKCaopener NS-1619 (90.0 nmol/min) did not affect basal RBF or the response to NE, but it attenuated the response to ANG II. Coadministration of NS-1619 with TEA or IBT abolished this effect. Forskolin caused renal vasodilation that was not inhibited by IBT. The presence of BKCachannels in the preglomerular vessels was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Despite their presence, there is no indication for a major role for BKCachannels in the control of basal renal tone in vivo. Furthermore, BKCachannels do not have a buffering effect on the rat renal vascular responses to ANG II and NE. The fact that NS-1619 attenuates the ANG II response indicates that the renal vascular BKCachannels can be activated under certain conditions.

Modulation of BK channel calcium affinity by differential phosphorylation in developing ovine basilar artery myocytes

Large-conductance Ca2+-sensitive K+ (BK) channel activity is greater in basilar artery smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the fetus than the adult, and this increased activity is associated with a lower BK channel Ca2+ set point (Ca0). Associated PKG activity is three times greater in BK channels from fetal than adult myocytes, whereas associated PKA activity is three times greater in channels from adult than fetal myocytes. We hypothesized that the change in Ca0 during development results from different levels of channel phosphorylation. In inside-out membrane patch preparations of basilar artery SMCs from adult and fetal sheep, we measured BK channel activity in four states of phosphorylation: native, dephosphorylated, PKA phosphorylated, and PKG phosphorylated. BK channels from adult and fetus exhibited similar voltage-activation curves, Ca0 values, and Ca2+ dissociation constants (Kd) for the dephosphorylated, PKA phosphorylated, and PKG phosphorylated states. However, voltage-activation curves of native fetal BK channels shifted significantly to the left of those of the adult, with Ca0 and Kd values half those of the adult. For the two age groups at each of the phosphorylation states, Ca0 and Kd produced linear relations when plotted against voltage at half-maximal channel activation. We conclude that the Ca0 and Kd values of the BK channel can be modulated by differential channel phosphorylation. Lower Ca0 and Kd values in BK channels of fetal myocytes can be explained by a greater extent of channel phosphorylation of fetal than adult myocytes.

KCa channel insensitivity to Ca2+ sparks underlies fractional uncoupling in newborn cerebral artery smooth muscle cells

In smooth muscle cells, localized intracellular Ca2+ transients, termed "Ca2+ sparks," activate several large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (KCa) channels, resulting in a transient KCa current. In some smooth muscle cell types, a significant proportion of Ca2+ sparks do not activate KCa channels. The goal of this study was to explore mechanisms that underlie fractional Ca2+ spark-KCa channel coupling. We investigated whether membrane depolarization or ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ release (RyR) channel activation modulates coupling in newborn (1- to 3-day-old) porcine cerebral artery myocytes. At steady membrane potentials of -40, 0, and +40 mV, mean transient KCa current frequency was approximately 0.18, 0.43, and 0.26 Hz and KCa channel activity [number of KCa channels activated by Ca2+ sparksxopen probability of KCa channels at peak of Ca2+ sparks (NPo)] at the transient KCa current peak was approximately 4, 12, and 24, respectively. Depolarization between -40 and +40 mV increased KCa channel sensitivity to Ca2+ sparks and elevated the percentage of Ca2+ sparks that activated a transient KCa current from 59 to 86%. In a Ca2+-free bath solution or in diltiazem, a voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blocker, steady membrane depolarization between -40 and +40 mV increased transient KCa current frequency up to approximately 1.6-fold. In contrast, caffeine (10 microM), an RyR channel activator, increased mean transient KCa current frequency but did not alter Ca2+ spark-KCa channel coupling. These data indicate that coupling is increased by mechanisms that elevate KCa channel sensitivity to Ca2+ sparks, but not by RyR channel activation. Overall, KCa channel insensitivity to Ca2+ sparks is a prominent factor underlying fractional Ca2+ spark uncoupling in newborn cerebral artery myocytes.

KMUP-1 activates BKCa channels in basilar artery myocytes via cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinases

This study investigated whether KMUP-1, a synthetic xanthine-based derivative, augments the delayed-rectifier potassium (K(DR))- or large-conductance Ca2+-activated potassium (BKCa) channel activity in rat basilar arteries through protein kinase-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Cerebral smooth muscle cells were enzymatically dissociated from rat basilar arteries. Conventional whole cell, perforated and inside-out patch-clamp electrophysiology was used to monitor K+- and Ca2+ channel activities. KMUP-1 (1 microM) had no effect on the K(DR) current but dramatically enhanced BKCa channel activity. This increased BKCa current activity was abolished by charybdotoxin (100 nM) and iberiotoxin (100 nM). Like KMUP-1, the membrane-permeable analogs of cGMP (8-Br-cGMP) and cAMP (8-Br-cAMP) enhanced the BKCa current. BKCa current activation by KMUP-1 was markedly inhibited by a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor (ODQ 10 microM), an adenylate cyclase inhibitor (SQ 22536 10 microM), competitive antagonists of cGMP and cAMP (Rp-cGMP, 100 microM and Rp-cAMP, 100 microM), and cGMP- and cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitors (KT5823, 300 nM and KT5720, 300 nM). Voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ current was significantly suppressed by KMUP-1 (1 microM), and nearly abolished by a calcium channel blocker (nifedipine, 1 microM). In conclusion, KMUP-1 stimulates BKCa currents by enhancing the activity of cGMP-dependent protein kinase, and in part this is due to increasing cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Physiologically, this activation would result in the closure of voltage-dependent calcium channels and the relaxation of cerebral arteries.

Membrane hyperpolarization is not required for sustained muscarinic agonist-induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ in arteriolar endothelial cells

OBJECTIVE

Hyperpolarization modulates Ca2+ influx during agonist stimulation in many endothelial cells, but the effects of hyperpolarization on Ca2+ influx in freshly isolated arteriolar endothelial cells are unknown. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to characterize agonist-induced Ca2+ transients in freshly isolated arteriolar endothelial cells and to test the hypothesis that membrane hyperpolarization augments agonist-induced Ca2+ influx into these cells.

METHODS

Arterioles were removed from hamster cremaster muscles and arteriolar endothelial cells were enzymatically isolated. Endothelial cells were loaded with Fura 2-AM and the Fura 2 ratio measured photometrically as an index of intracellular Ca2+. The cells were then stimulated with the muscarinic, cholinergic agonist, methacholine, and the resulting Ca2+ transients were measured.

RESULTS

Methacholine (1 microM) increased the endothelial cell Fura 2 ratio from a baseline of 0.81 +/- 0.02 to an initial peak of 1.17 +/- 0.05 (n = 17) followed by a sustained plateau of 1.12 +/- 0.07. The plateau phase of the Ca2+ transient was inhibited by removal of extracellular Ca2+ (n = 12, p < .05), or the nonselective cation channel blockers Gd3+ (30 microM; n = 7, p < .05) or La3+ (50 microM; n = 7, p < .05) without significant effect on the baseline or peak (p > .05). The initial peak of methacholine-induced Ca2+ transients was inhibited by the IP3-receptor antagonist xestospongin D (10 microM, n = 5, p < .05). The methacholine-induced Ca2+ transients were accompanied by endothelial cell hyperpolarization of approximately 14-18 mV, as assessed by experiments using the potentiometric dye, di-8-ANEPPS as well as by patch-clamp experiments. However, inhibition of hyperpolarization by blockade of Ca2+-activated K+ channels with charybdotoxin (100 nM) and apamin (100 nM) (n = 5), or exposure of endothelial cells to 80 or 145 mM KCl (both n = 7) had no effect on the plateau phase of methacholine-induced Ca2+ transients (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Freshly isolated arteriolar endothelial cells display agonist-induced Ca2+ transients. For the muscarinic agonist, methacholine, these Ca2+ transients result from release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores through IP3 receptors, followed by sustained influx of extracellular Ca2+. While these changes in intracellular Ca2+ are associated with endothelial cell hyperpolarization, the methacholine-induced, sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+ appears to be independent from this change in membrane potential. These data suggest that arteriolar endothelial cells may possess a novel Ca2+ influx pathway, or that the relationship between intracellular Ca2+ and Ca2+ influx is more complex than that observed in other endothelial cells.

Myogenic contraction in rat skeletal muscle arterioles: smooth muscle membrane potential and Ca(2+) signaling

The present studies examined relationships between intraluminal pressure, membrane potential (E(m)), and myogenic tone in skeletal muscle arterioles. Using pharmacological interventions targeting Ca(2+) entry/release mechanisms, these studies also determined the role of Ca(2+) pathways and E(m) in determining steady-state myogenic constriction. Studies were conducted in isolated and cannulated arterioles under zero flow. Increasing intraluminal pressure (0-150 mmHg) resulted in progressive membrane depolarization (-55.3 +/- 4.1 to -29.4 +/- 0.7 mV) that exhibited a sigmoidal relationship between extent of myogenic constriction and E(m). Thus, despite further depolarization, at pressures >70 mmHg, little additional vasoconstriction occurred. This was not due to an inability of voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels to be activated as KCl (75 mM) evoked depolarization and vasoconstriction at 120 mmHg. Nifedipine (1 microM) and cyclopiazonic acid (30 microM) significantly attenuated established myogenic tone, whereas inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-mediated Ca(2+) release/entry by 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborate (50 microM) had little effect. Combinations of the Ca(2+) entry blockers with the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) inhibitor caused a total loss of tone, suggesting that while depolarization-mediated Ca(2+) entry makes a significant contribution to myogenic tone, an interaction between Ca(2+) entry and SR Ca(2+) release is necessary for maintenance of myogenic constriction. In contrast, none of the agents, in combination or alone, altered E(m), demonstrating the downstream role of Ca(2+) mobilization relative to changes in E(m). Large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels modulated E(m) to exert a small effect on myogenic tone, and consistent with this, skeletal muscle arterioles appeared to show an inherently steep relationship between E(m) and extent of myogenic tone. Collectively, skeletal muscle arterioles exhibit complex relationships between E(m), Ca(2+) availability, and myogenic constriction that impact on the tissue's physiological function.

Potassium channels in the peripheral microcirculation

Vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells, endothelial cells (EC), and pericytes that form the walls of vessels in the microcirculation express a diverse array of ion channels that play an important role in the function of these cells and the microcirculation in both health and disease. This brief review focuses on the K+ channels expressed in smooth muscle and endothelial cells in arterioles. Microvascular VSM cells express at least four different classes of K+ channels, including inward-rectifier K+ channels (Kin), ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP), voltage-gated K+ channels (Kv), and large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa). VSM KIR participate in dilation induced by elevated extracellular K+ and may also be activated by C-type natriuretic peptide, a putative endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). Vasodilators acting through cAMP or cGMP signaling pathways in VSM may open KATP, Kv, and BKCa, causing membrane hyperpolarization and vasodilation. VSMBKc. may also be activated by epoxides of arachidonic acid (EETs) identified as EDHF in some systems. Conversely, vasoconstrictors may close KATP, Kv, and BKCa through protein kinase C, Rho-kinase, or c-Src pathways and contribute to VSM depolarization and vasoconstriction. At the same time Kv and BKCa act in a negative feedback manner to limit depolarization and prevent vasospasm. Microvascular EC express at least 5 classes of K+ channels, including small (sKCa) and intermediate(IKCa) conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels, Kin, KATP, and Kv. Both sK and IK are opened by endothelium-dependent vasodilators that increase EC intracellular Ca2+ to cause membrane hyper-polarization that may be conducted through myoendothelial gap junctions to hyperpolarize and relax arteriolar VSM. KIR may serve to amplify sKCa- and IKCa-induced hyperpolarization and allow active transmission of hyperpolarization along EC through gap junctions. EC KIR channels may also be opened by elevated extracellular K+ and participate in K+-induced vasodilation. EC KATP channels may be activated by vasodilators as in VSM. Kv channels may provide a negative feedback mechanism to limit depolarization in some endothelial cells.

Pharmacological evidence for a key role of voltage-gated K+ channels in the function of rat aortic smooth muscle cells

The role of voltage-dependent (I(K(v))) and large conductance Ca(2+)-activated (BK(Ca)) K(+) currents in the function of the rat aorta was investigated using specific BK(Ca) and K(V) channel inhibitors in single rat aortic myocytes (RAMs) with patch-clamp technique and in endothelium-denuded aortic rings with isometric tension measurements. The whole-cell K(+) currents were recorded in RAMs dialysed with 200 and 444 nm Ca(2+) and in perforated-patch configuration. Electrophysiological analysis demonstrated that I(K(v)) appeared at >/=-40 mV, while BK(Ca) (isolated using 1 microm paxilline) were seen positive to -20 mV in all conditions. Voltage-dependent characteristics, but not maximal conductance, of I(K(v)) was significantly altered in increased [Ca(2+)](i). Correolide (1 microm) (a K(V)1 channel blocker) did not inhibit the I(K(v)), whereas millimolar concentration of TEA (IC(50)=3.1+/-0.6 mm, n=5) and 4-aminopyridine (4-AP, IC(50)=5.9+/-1.9 mm, n=7) suppressed I(K(v)). These results and immunocytochemical analysis suggest the K(V)2.1 channel to be a molecular correlate for I(K(v)). In nonstimulated aortic rings 1-5 mm TEA and 4-AP (inhibitors of I(K(v))), but not paxilline (1 microm), caused contraction. The frequency of contractile responses to TEA and 4-AP was increased in the presence of 10 mm KCl, which itself did not significantly affect the aortic basal tone. Phenylephrine (15-40 nm) induced sustained tension with superimposed slow oscillatory contractions (termed OWs). OWs were blocked by diltiazem, ryanodine and cyclopiazonic acid, suggesting the involvement of L-type Ca(2+) channels and ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+) stores in this process. TEA and 4-AP, but not IbTX, paxilline or correolide, increased the duration and amplitude of OWs, indicating that I(K(v)) is involved in the control of oscillatory activity. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the K(V)2.1-mediated I(K(v)), and not BK(Ca), plays an important role in the regulation of the excitability and contractility of rat aorta.

Developmental differences in Ca2+-activated K+ channel activity in ovine basilar artery

A primary determinant of vascular smooth muscle (VSM) tone and contractility is the resting membrane potential, which, in turn, is influenced heavily by K+ channel activity. Previous studies from our laboratory and others have demonstrated differences in the contractility of cerebral arteries from near-term fetal and adult animals. To test the hypothesis that these contractility differences result from maturational changes in voltage-gated K+ channel function, we compared this function in VSM myocytes from adult and fetal sheep cerebral arteries. The primary current-carrying, voltage-gated K+ channels in VSM myocytes are the large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa) and voltage-activated K+ (KV) channels. We observed that at voltage-clamped membrane potentials of +60 mV in perforated whole cell studies, the normalized outward current densities in fetal myocytes were >30% higher than in those of the adult (P < 0.05) and that these were predominantly due to iberiotoxin-sensitive currents from BKCa channels. Excised, insideout membrane patches revealed nearly identical unitary conductances and Hill coefficients for BKCa channels. The plot of log intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) versus voltage for half-maximal activation (V(1/2)) yielded linear and parallel relationships, and the change in V(1/2) for a 10-fold change in [Ca2+] was also similar. Channel activity increased e-fold for a 19 +/- 2-mV depolarization for adult myocytes and for an 18 +/- 1-mV depolarization for fetal myocytes (P > 0.05). However, the relationship between BKCa open probability and membrane potential had a relative leftward shift for the fetal compared with adult myocytes at different [Ca2+]i. The [Ca2+] for half-maximal activation (i.e., the calcium set points) at 0 mV were 8.8 and 4.7 microM for adult and fetal myocytes, respectively. Thus the increased BKCa current density in fetal myocytes appears to result from a lower calcium set point.

Reduced perivascular PO2 increases nitric oxide release from endothelial cells

Many studies have suggested that endothelial cells can act as "oxygen sensors" to large reductions in oxygen availability by increasing nitric oxide (NO) production. This study determined whether small reductions in oxygen availability enhanced NO production from in vivo intestinal arterioles, venules, and parenchymal cells. In vivo measurements of perivascular NO concentration ([NO]) were made with NO-sensitive microelectrodes during normoxic and reduced oxygen availability. During normoxia, intestinal first-order arteriolar [NO] was 397 +/- 26 nM (n = 5), paired venular [NO] was 298 +/- 34 nM (n = 5), and parenchymal cell [NO] was 138 +/- 36 nM (n = 3). During reduced oxygen availability, arteriolar and venular [NO] significantly increased to 695 +/- 79 nM (n = 5) and 534 +/- 66 nM (n = 5), respectively, whereas parenchymal [NO] remained unchanged at 144 +/- 34 nM (n = 4). During reduced oxygenation, arteriolar and venular diameters increased by 15 +/- 3% and 14 +/- 5%, respectively: NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester strongly suppressed the dilation to lower periarteriolar Po2. Micropipette injection of a CO2 embolus into arterioles significantly attenuated arteriolar dilation and suppressed NO release in response to reduced oxygen availability. These results indicated that in rat intestine, reduced oxygen availability increased both arteriolar and venular NO and that the main site of NO release under these conditions was from endothelial cells.

Participation of intracellular Ca2+ stores in arteriolar conducted responses

We examined the role played by intracellular Ca2+ stores in conducted vasomotor responses induced by phenylephrine (PE) in isolated hamster cremasteric arterioles. When applied briefly ( approximately 1 s) to isolated, cannulated arterioles by using pressure-pulse ejection from a micropipette, PE produced a strong local vasoconstriction and a very small biphasic conducted response (a small constriction followed by a dilation) that propagated several hundred micrometers along the vessel length. The conducted vasomotion was associated with a monophasic elevation of the endothelial cell intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) at the site of stimulation, as measured with the Ca2+ indicator fura 2. The Ca2+ pump inhibitor thapsigargin was used to limit filling of Ca2+ stores in smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Thapsigargin reduced baseline diameter and elicited a strong dilator component at the local site while enhancing both the constrictor and dilator components of the PE-induced conducted response. The enhanced conducted constrictor component induced by thapsigargin was mimicked by extraluminal application of tetraethylammonium or charybdotoxin but not by iberiotoxin, apamin, glibenclamide, barium, or 4-aminopirydine. Thapsigargin increased the estimated basal endothelial cell [Ca2+]i by approximately 60 nM and converted the PE-induced change in [Ca2+]i from monotonic to biphasic with a late elevation of [Ca2+]i above baseline that coincided with the increased dilatory component of the conducted response. Luminal application of charybdotoxin plus apamin significantly reduced the dilatory component of the conducted response. These results indicate that intracellular Ca2+ stores play a dynamic role in regulating conducted vasomotor responses apparently through modulation of KCa channels in both cell types.

Transfection of CYP4A1 cDNA increases vascular reactivity in renal interlobar arteries

20-HETE, a cytochrome P-450 4A (CYP4A1)-derived arachidonic acid metabolite, is a major eicosanoid formed in renal and extrarenal microcirculation. 20-HETE inhibits Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels in vascular smooth muscle cells and thereby may modulate vascular reactivity. We transfected renal interlobar arteries with an expression plasmid containing the cDNA of CYP4A1, the low-K(m) arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylase, and examined the consequences of increasing 20-HETE synthesis on constrictor responses to phenylephrine. CYP4A1-transfected interlobar arteries demonstrated a twofold increase in CYP4A protein levels and 20-HETE production compared with arteries transfected with the empty plasmid; they also showed increased sensitivity to phenylephrine, as evidenced by a decrease in EC(50) from 0.37 +/- 0.04 microM in plasmid-transfected arteries to 0.07 +/- 0.01 microM in CYP4A1-transfected arteries. The increased sensitivity to phenylephrine was greatly attenuated by N-methylsulfonyl-12,12-dibromododec-11-enamide (DDMS), a selective inhibitor of 20-HETE synthesis, and by 20-hydroxyeicosa-6(Z),15(Z)-dienoic acid, a specific 20-HETE antagonist. This effect of DDMS was reversed by addition of 20-HETE, further substantiating the notion that increased levels of 20-HETE contribute to the increased sensitivity to phenylephrine in vessels overexpressing CYP4A1. These data suggest that 20-HETE of vascular origin sensitizes renal vascular smooth muscle to phenylephrine.

Peroxynitrite inhibits Ca2+-activated K+ channel activity in smooth muscle of human coronary arterioles

We examined the hypothesis that ONOO-, a product of the interaction between superoxide (O2*-) and nitric oxide (NO), inhibits calcium-activated K+ (KCa) channel activity in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of human coronary arterioles (HCAs), thereby reducing hyperpolarization-mediated vasodilation. HCAs were dissected from right atrial appendages. The interaction of ONOO- with microvessels was determined by immunohistochemistry using a nitrotyrosine antibody. Strong staining was observed in arteries exposed to authentic ONOO- or to sodium nitroprusside (SNP)+xanthine (XA)+xanthine oxidase (XO). Dilation to 10(-8) mol/L bradykinin (BK) was abolished in vessels exposed to ONOO- (-2.5+/-8%; P<0.05) but not DC-ONOO- (65+/-8%). Reduced dilation to BK was also observed after application of XO and SNP. Dilation to NS1619 (KCa channel opener) was reduced in endothelial denuded arterioles treated with ONOO-. In isolated VSMCs, whole-cell peak K+ current density was reduced by ONOO- (control 65+/-15 pA/pF; ONOO- 42+/-9 pA/pF; P<0.05). Iberiotoxin had no further effect on whole-cell K+ current. In inside-out patches, ONOO- but not DC-ONOO- decreased open state probability (NP(o)) of KCa channel by 50+/-12%. O2*- generated by XA+XO had no effect on BK-induced dilation and NP(o) of KCa channels. These results suggest that ONOO-, but not O2*-, inhibits KCa channel activity in VSMCs possibly by a direct effect. This mechanism may contribute to impaired EDHF-mediated dilation in conditions such as ischemia/reperfusion where increased activity of NO synthase occurs in the presence of excess of O2*-.

Role for endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in vascular tone in rat mesenteric and hindlimb circulations in vivo

The role of endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in the regulation of blood flow in vivo was examined in the mesenteric and hindlimb circulations of anaesthetized rats. Basal mesenteric conductance decreased from 57 +/- 5 to 20 +/- 6 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) when nitric oxide (NO) production was inhibited, and combined blockade of intermediate- and small-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (K(Ca)) channels with charybdotoxin (ChTx) and apamin had no further effect. Basal hindlimb conductance was reduced from 39 +/- 3 to 22 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by NO synthesis inhibition, with no effect of the K(Ca) channel blockers. Endothelial stimulation with acetylcholine (ACh) infusion directly into the mesenteric bed increased conductance by 20 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1). Blockade of NO synthesis decreased this conductance to 15 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1), leaving the response attributable to EDHF. This was reduced to 2 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by ChTx plus apamin but not by iberiotoxin, which selectively blocks large-conductance K(Ca) channels. Similar results were obtained when bradykinin (BK) was used to stimulate the endothelium. Nitroprusside, which directly relaxes smooth muscle, evoked an increase in conductance that was resistant to all blockers tested. ACh-induced increases in hindlimb conductance were reduced from 19 +/- 1 to 12 +/- 1 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by NO synthesis inhibition and further reduced to 2 +/- 2 microl min(-1) mmHg(-1) by ChTx plus apamin. In contrast to NO, ChTx- and apamin-sensitive EDHF appears to contribute little to basal conductance in rat mesenteric and hindlimb beds. However, EDHF accounts for a significant component of the conductance increase during endothelial stimulation by ACh and BK. In these beds, intermediate- and small-conductance K(Ca) channels underpin EDHF-mediated vasodilatation.

Expression and function of native potassium channel [K(V)alpha1] subunits in terminal arterioles of rabbit

1. In this study we investigated the expression and function of the K(V)alpha1 subfamily of voltage-gated K(+) channels in terminal arterioles from rabbit cerebral circulation. 2. K(+) current was measured from smooth muscle cells within intact freshly isolated arteriolar fragments. Current activated on depolarisation positive of about -45 mV and a large fraction of this current was blocked by 3,4-diaminopyridine (3,4-DAP) or 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), inhibitors of K(V) channels. Expression of cRNA encoding K(V)1.6 in Xenopus oocytes also generated a 4-AP-sensitive K(+) current with a threshold for activation near -45 mV. 3. Immunofluorescence labelling revealed K(V)1.2 to be specifically localised to endothelial cells, and K(V)1.5 and K(V)1.6 to plasma membranes of smooth muscle cells. 4. K(V) channel current in arteriolar fragments was blocked by correolide (which is specific for the K(V)alpha1 family of K(V) channels) but was resistant to recombinant agitoxin-2 (rAgTX2; which inhibits K(V)1.6 but not K(V)1.5). Heterologously expressed K(V)2.1 was resistant to correolide, and K(V)1.6 was blocked by rAgTX2. 5. Arterioles that were mildly preconstricted and depolarised by 0.1-0.3 nM endothelin-1 constricted further in response to 3,4-DAP, 4-AP or correolide, but not to rAgTX2. 6. We suggest that K(V)alpha1 channels are expressed in smooth muscle cells of terminal arterioles, underlie a major part of the voltage-dependent K(+) current, and have a physiological function to oppose vasoconstriction. K(V)alpha1 complexes without K(V)1.5 appear to be uncommon.

Carbon monoxide produced by isolated arterioles attenuates pressure-induced vasoconstriction

Studies were conducted on isolated rat gracilis muscle arterioles to examine the role of vascular heme oxygenase (HO)-derived carbon monoxide (CO) on myogenic constrictor responses to stepwise increments in intraluminal pressure. The arterioles express HO-2 but not HO-1 and manufacture CO. Both HO-2 protein expression and CO production are reduced in arterioles maintained for 18 h before experimentation in media containing HO-2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODN). Pressurization of arterioles mounted on a myograph over the pressure range of 40--100 mmHg elicits reduction of internal diameter. At pressures >40 mmHg, the internal diameter of vessels treated with either HO-2 AS-ODN, the HO inhibitor chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP), or the K(+) channel blocker tetraethylammonium (TEA) are smaller than the corresponding control values. The inclusion of exogenous CO, but not of biliverdin, in the superfusion buffer attenuates pressure-induced vasoconstriction in CrMP-treated vessels. However, exogenous CO does not attenuate pressure-induced vasoconstriction in vessels treated with both CrMP and TEA. Collectively, these data suggest that CO of vascular origin attenuates pressure-induced arteriolar constriction via a mechanism involving a TEA-sensitive K(+) channel.

Carbon monoxide of vascular origin attenuates the sensitivity of renal arterial vessels to vasoconstrictors

Rat renal interlobar arteries express heme oxygenase 2 (HO-2) and manufacture carbon monoxide (CO), which is released into the headspace gas. CO release falls to 30% and 54% of control, respectively, after inhibition of HO activity with chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP) or of HO-2 expression with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (HO-2 AS-ODN). Patch-clamp studies revealed that CrMP decreases the open probability of a tetraethylammonium-sensitive (TEA-sensitive) 105 pS K channel in interlobar artery smooth muscle cells, and that this effect of CrMP is reversed by CO. Assessment of phenylephrine-induced tension development revealed reduction of the EC(50) in vessels treated with HO-2 AS-ODN, CrMP, or TEA. Exogenous CO greatly minimized the sensitizing effect on agonist-induced contractions of agents that decrease vascular CO production, but not the sensitizing effect of K channel blockade with TEA. Collectively, these data suggest that vascular CO serves as an inhibitory modulator of vascular reactivity to vasoconstrictors via a mechanism that involves a TEA-sensitive K channel.

Influence of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels on rat renal arteriolar responses to depolarizing agonists

Experiments were performed to evaluate the hypothesis that opening of Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (BK(Ca) channels) promotes juxtamedullary arteriolar dilation and curtails constrictor responses to depolarizing agonists. Under baseline conditions, afferent and efferent arteriolar lumen diameters averaged 23.4 +/- 0.9 (n = 36) and 22.8 +/- 1.1 (n = 13) microm, respectively. The synthetic BK(Ca) channel opener NS-1619 evoked concentration-dependent afferent arteriolar dilation. BK(Ca) channel blockade (1 mM tetraethylammonium; TEA) decreased afferent diameter by 15 +/- 3% and prevented the dilator response to 30 microM NS-1619. ANG II (10 nM) decreased afferent arteriolar diameter by 44 +/- 4%, a response that was reduced by 30% during NS-1619 treatment; however, TEA failed to alter afferent constrictor responses to either ANG II or arginine vasopressin. Neither NS-1619 nor TEA altered agonist-induced constriction of the efferent arteriole. Thus, although the BK(Ca) channel agonist was able to curtail afferent (but not efferent) arteriolar constrictor responses to ANG II, BK(Ca) channel blockade did not allow exaggerated agonist-induced arteriolar constriction. These observations suggest that the BK(Ca) channels evident in afferent arteriolar smooth muscle do not provide a prominent physiological brake on agonist-induced constriction under our experimental conditions.